Chapter 7: Flood Relief Efforts

Han Wei bit his thin lips tightly, displaying a face full of defiance. The group of old men led by Chong Jimin must have been the ones to complain first.

Maintaining peace and security is the responsibility of the Han Chen, and as for the loss of grain, I believe that we can still overcome this difficult period

A cheerful female voice: "May I ask Chairman Yang, it is said that you specially approved the use of military rations to provide disaster relief to the people. Could you please tell us how much military rations were used in total"

During several instances when the dike was in imminent danger, Yang Hanwei personally rushed to the dike, shouting commands and encouraging everyone to fight against the flood. Xiao Heizi, terrified and at a loss, pleaded with him not to go up, but was rendered speechless by Hanwei's piercing gaze.

Very well, Team Leader Han is up there keeping watch. This morning, Chief of Staff Chong also called to inquire about our well-being

"Han Wei, you seem to be unwell; your forehead is quite hot," Mr. Lei observed carefully

The crowd that had come upon hearing the news surged forward, but they all consciously made way for a narrow path, watching them depart. On the embankment, not only were the soldiers under Han Wei's command removed, but even the soldiers temporarily dispatched from other brigades stood aside, respectfully saluting as they watched Yang Han Wei leave

Everyone knows that General Yang is exhausted and collapsed on the embankment, do I even need to mention it? Early this morning, I just helped you drive away that group of reporters from last night. Little Hei adjusted the corners of his blanket and complained, "Dr. Si said you soaked in dirty water yesterday, and your wound has become inflamed from the soaking. He wants you to be obedient, take your medicine, and not move around recklessly"

Young master, what do you think? Little Black hurried to help him sit up

Han Chen opened the door to the hidden room behind the bookshelf. Han Wei had entered this room twice and knew that there was a tunnel leading outside. Han Chen dragged Han Wei into the hidden room, ordered him to face the wall and kneel as punishment, forbidding him to make a sound. Once the door was closed, the hidden room was pitch black, and Han Wei felt an overwhelming sense of fear and helplessness.

"The most fundamental quality of a soldier is obedience. Have you achieved that?" Yang Hancheng reprimanded, then quietly added, "Will you do it yourself, or do you need me to help you?"

Yang Hancheng turned around and coldly glared at him, sneering, "Not bad, you still know what military law and family law are." He then raised his voice, slammed the table, and scolded loudly, "I thought you were lawless!"

Regarding this issue, I believe it is best for Director Chong to respond, as he is the overall commander for this flood relief operation. The elder brother's humble voice deferred for a moment, and then Chong Jimin slowly said: "When we first considered the situation, we thought that blowing up the fishing camp would be the most feasible and convenient method. However, that is not acceptable; there are a large number of civilians there, and their lives are at stake. Life is always more important than property! We cannot allow the lives of the people to be swallowed by the flood, can we? It is a disgraceful thought to sacrifice the lives of the displaced for the sake of blowing up the dike at the fishing camp!"

Amidst the busyness, the bold and meticulous Han Wei still remembered the homeless disaster victims, and unexpectedly ordered the granary to be opened, allowing some military rations to be distributed to the people for cooking. The commander of the flood relief efforts, Yang Han Wei, was like an unstoppable little leopard, resilient and decisive, commanding with assurance. He was no longer the pitiful young master of the Yang family, who had been beaten and bruised at home like a helpless little kitten.

Han Weiqiang endured the pain, supporting himself against the handrail as he descended the stairs. He knew that as long as he made it downstairs, Xiao Heizi should be waiting for him not far from the servant's room. He cautiously moved down the steps, but his vision was still clouded and dizzy. Suddenly, he lost his footing and fell down the stairs.

A slap to the face left Han Wei utterly disheartened. He had not anticipated that his elder brother, whom he had hurried to meet despite his illness and fatigue, would welcome him in such a manner, especially in front of outsiders. Director Pang and Mr. Lei from the attendants' room, who had tried to mediate, were also driven out by his elder brother.

The crisp sound of the belt striking was incessant, and Chong Jimin immediately felt a sense of enjoyment akin to watching a play. He recalled that during the Ming Dynasty, there was an official who particularly loved the clear sound of the board being struck in the main hall, and today he realized just how wonderful this enjoyment was. Reflecting on the previous night when he had been subjected to the relentless scolding by Yang Hanwei, he finally felt a sense of relief today.

How is the situation over there at the dam?

Before long, he heard a cacophony of voices outside, likely the journalists mentioned on the phone arriving. The sounds of clattering equipment, the chatter of inquiries, and Director Pang's advice to maintain order by allowing everyone to ask their questions one at a time.

Han Chen approached his younger brother, once again extending his hand in front of him, his expression stern and saying not a word. The undeniable authority emanating from him made Han Wei feel a wave of chill and grievance. Unable to resist, he numbly unfastened the belt at his waist and handed it to his elder brother.

"Pah! You still need to understand hetushu.com." Han Wei coughed twice and laughed while scolding. The two were joking around when a report came from outside the door. A duty soldier entered and said that the military department had sent a message, requesting the brigade commander to quickly return to the provincial office for a meeting, as the commander had returned.

Indeed, those who accomplish great things do not concern themselves with trivial matters. The incessant chatter of various opinions filled the air, and the enthusiastic voices of the people brought feelings of gratitude and hope, warming Han Wei's heart. Reflecting on how the passersby showed him more warmth than his own brother, tears streamed down Han Wei's face.

The crisp sound of the belt cracking echoed a few times, accompanied by Yang Hanwei's faint voice of explanation, though it was not clearly audible

Yang Hancheng was also taken aback and hurried over to touch his younger brother Hanwei's head, which was indeed very hot

***

In the face of great adversity, I cannot think of so much. Han Wei's hoarse rebuttal was clearly heard by Chong Jimin

"You even brought him here? How far away is he!" Han Wei's words were filled with complaint.

I am asking you whether it is right to privately mobilize military supplies! Do not waste my time with so much nonsense! With people like you, is there still military discipline?" Yang Hancheng's scolding voice was quite intimidating. Chong Jiming had long heard that the Yang family's family rules were very strict, and he also knew that Yang Hancheng was very strict with this younger brother. He had seen Yang Hancheng reprimand Hanwei a few times, but he had never heard of Hancheng so openly chastising Hanwei in the command post. This morning, he had casually reported the matter, hoping that this young man, who was unaware of the gravity of the situation, would learn a lesson, but he did not expect Yang Hancheng to be so furious.

The reporters dispersed, the hidden door opened, and the tall figure of the elder brother appeared in the bright sunlight.

"Hehe... soldiers, after all, are those who fight with their heads hanging on their waists; a little pain is nothing." The elder brother spoke very casually, "Moreover, my younger brother Han Wei is young and reckless. If during this operation to defend the embankment he offends any neighbors or disturbs the public, I, Yang, would like to apologize to everyone in advance. If any tools are damaged or requisitioned, you can come to me, and I, Yang, will compensate you in full."

The door between the office and the outer room was locked from the inside. The older brother furrowed his brows in disdain, not bothering to glance at him as he turned his back to look out the window, extending his hand and coldly saying: "Hand it over!"

"May I ask, Commander Yang, you are aware that Songzhuang has military provisions and also warehouses belonging to major merchants in Longcheng. There are rumors that the Longcheng authorities once suggested blowing up the dike at Yuhuying to sacrifice the pawn to protect the king. What led you to decisively abandon the idea of blowing up Yuhuying, and instead take such a significant risk to repair the dike at Songzhuang?" A deep male voice inquired, adding, "Did you not consider that if the dike at Songzhuang cannot be preserved, the city would be in danger?"

Chong Jimin's office is separated from Commander Yang's room by just a wall. He slowly savors the Mao Feng tea that Commander Yang has just gifted him, inhaling the delicate fragrance of the tea as he deeply breathes in the steaming aroma. Meanwhile, the sound of Yang Hancheng's reprimand can be heard from next door: "You have rebelled, and you dare to open the granary without permission. Do you know what a grave offense that is?"

Xiao Hei glared and said: "Do you think I want to find that yellow-haired ghost? I have to guess what he means even when he gestures and draws. I actually want to make things easier for the military doctor, but how can I explain your injury to him, Commander?"

This action, which is quite normal on ordinary days, truly surprised Hancheng today. Is Hanwei's behavior driven by resentment or is it unintentional? He found it inappropriate to reprimand or investigate him further, so he let it go.

"Commander Yang, come quickly!" Many people rushed out from the attendants' room, helping the bruised and battered Han Wei. In pain, Han Wei steadied himself, while Chong Jimin and Director Pang also hurried over. Those surrounding him offered handkerchiefs to staunch the blood flowing from his nose, while others attempted to support him. Han Wei raised his eyes and saw his elder brother Han Chen rushing over upon hearing the news.

Han Wei's mouth corner kept twitching; he knew that his elder brother's orders were not to be defied, even though he felt a deep sense of grievance.

Han Wei, amidst the jubilant cheers of the military and civilians for their success, exhausted his last strength and collapsed into the mud.

A wave of dizziness hit him; he leaned against the door for a moment, straightened his military uniform, steadied himself, and stood at attention, performing a standard military salute. He said, "If the Commander has no further instructions, Han Wei takes his leave."

Yang Hancheng listened attentively and finally understood that after his departure, his younger brother Han Wei had a significant conflict with the old fox, Consultant Chong, regarding the resolution of the flood disaster. Chong Jiming had connections in the central government of Xijing and was also someone sent by the higher-ups to be by his side. On ordinary days, Hancheng was very cautious around him, but only the reckless Han Wei dared to be so bold with him.

Han Wei shook off the hand of his elder brother at the beginning and said to Xiao Heizi in the crowd, "mhetushu.com.com, help me up"

You have many excuses; when faced with great adversity, you feel free to hit and kill at will

This insolent young man actually dared to point a gun at his head and ask whether a person's life is more important than the wealth of a wealthy landlord's estate This arrogant and overbearing demeanor infuriated him

Chief of Staff Chong had long arrived outside the city to welcome him. Along the way, he repeatedly apologized and expressed his self-reproach regarding the flood control and dam reinforcement efforts, lamenting his failure in command and his inability to foresee and properly fortify the defenses. On the other hand, he praised Yang Hanwei for his valor, highlighting how he stood firm against opposition during critical times to preserve the main dam.

Han Wei's eyebrows trembled slightly, and tears of disappointment and grievance welled up in his eyes. He was well aware of the meaning behind the simple two words from his elder brother. Yet, he quickly suppressed his anger and disappointment, steadied himself, and asked defiantly: "Commander, is this a matter of military law or family law? If it is military law, just say the word, and Han Wei will go to the military law office to receive his punishment; if it is family law, Wei'er will accept whatever you decide when he returns home."

After a brief pause, Chong Jimin's voice said: "I will answer this question. The situation was very urgent at that time. Commander Yang ordered that we protect the levee and save lives at any cost, prioritizing the safety and lives of the people. As for the specific batches of grain that were requisitioned, we have not yet had the time to tally them." Chong Jimin's voice sounded so hypocritical that Han Wei admired his ability to be both smooth-talking and shameless. Just the night before, Han Wei had even drawn his gun to force him to agree on the grain allocation.

You certainly have become bold; who did you consult before tampering with the military supplies? On what basis do you think you can mobilize the personnel from the 11th and 15th Brigades? This is an act of rebellion

Han Wei was already too weak to resist or struggle, and he no longer wished to argue further. He allowed his elder brother to scold and question him without responding, simply supporting himself against the desk, closing his eyes, and silently enduring the sharp pain as the belt tore open his barely healed wounds. He did not believe that his elder brother would turn a blind eye; since his elder brother chose to ignore him, he felt there was no need to say anything more. The sound of the belt striking, "pa-pa-pa-pa-pa," occasionally landed on his body and sometimes missed, hitting the desk instead. Han Wei bit his thin lips, no longer crying or making a sound. The more silent he became, the harsher his elder brother's beatings grew. After several nights of torment, he felt dizzy and weak, unsure how much longer his frail body could endure. At that moment, the sound of a life-saving phone call rang out.

"Record and - picture - author? What reporter? Not seen! What ... ... What ... ... Alright, good! Let them come to my office in ten minutes."

It is now the early hours of the fourth day since the dike was successfully reinforced. After several days and nights of desperate efforts by the military and civilians, the dike is finally safe and sound

Did you tell him that I am ill

"Commander Yang, we have heard that you sent your younger brother, Brigadier Yang Hanwei, to risk his life commanding the fight against the flood at the front line of the levee. The entire city’s citizens have entrusted us to convey their regards to him. We have heard that he collapsed on the levee. May I ask how Brigadier Yang's condition is now?" a reporter inquired

Upon returning home, Han Chen discovered that Han Wei had not come back but had gone directly to the travel department, which left him feeling quite displeased. The gifts he had specially brought back for Han Wei from afar were carelessly tossed onto the table.

Commander Yang, please do not speak this way. The people and students along the road from Songzhuang Dike are all concerned about Colonel Yang's health. Everyone is immensely grateful!

Yang Hancheng went directly back to the provincial department and did not return home first. The flood had blocked the road, and he only arrived this morning

The heart feels as if it is being flooded by rainwater, a sense of chill enveloping it. Even if the elder brother does not hold any regard for this younger brother, it should not lead to a lack of discernment between right and wrong

Han Wei raised his hand to shield his eyes from the blinding light, rubbing his swollen eyes. He forced himself to stand up against the wall and staggered out of the dark room.

Han Wei slowly opened his eyes; outside the window, the rain continued to pour. His head throbbed painfully, and he knew he must have been caught in the rain and developed a fever. Moreover, after rolling in the rain and mud, the wound on his back began to ache again. Even without moving, the pain felt as if his flesh were being torn apart.

At that moment, Xiao Heizi Hu Yi only felt Han Wei's hand, which was tightly gripping his "cane," gradually loosening. Fortunately, Xiao Heizi was quick-witted and managed to pull Han Wei, who was on the verge of falling into the turbulent river, back just in time, preventing him from meeting the Dragon King. He braved the pouring rain and carried Young Master Han Wei step by step down the muddy embankment.

***

"Take off your military uniform; I see you are not qualified to be a soldier," Yang Hancheng commanded

"Brother, I am ashamed. I have not slept for two nights, fearing that Brother Han Wei might encounter any mishap. I, Chong, can only die to atone for my sins." As Chong Jimin spoke, tears glistened in his eyes.

"He slipped and fell, quite accidentally." Han Wei exerted all his strength in an attempt to get up

Han Wei felt a warmth in his heart, as there were still people who remembered him; in the cold, dark room, it seemed as if he could see a faint glimmer of light.