Spy wars start with lurking Secretary Hong

Chapter 508 It's time to hit the road.
late at night.

The room was filled with a languid atmosphere, a blend of perfume and body heat.

"Are you really going to fight Ichiro to the death?"

Hong Zhiyou laughed: "I should be asking him that."

"If I hadn't convinced Shiro Ishii, I would have become a guinea pig by now."

Jia Huizi sighed, her voice low and somber, "Don't you two have any room for discussion?"

“He narrowed his own path, so it’s not my fault.” Hong Zhiyou shook his head.

Jia Huizi's eyes were also full of sighs: "Yes, Ichiro and I... can never go back to the past."

He changed the subject, his expression turning serious.

"I have just received news that Shiro Ishii secretly sent a coded telegram to Tokyo, accusing Ma Wendong of possibly committing treason and leaking secrets."

"Now that the Nomonhan front is in complete disarray, the Kwantung Army will definitely undergo a major reshuffle, and neither Isogai Rensuke nor Ueda Kenkichi will escape unscathed."

"But Shiro Ishii's position was special, so Ma Wendong could only be his scapegoat."

"Do you get me?"

Jia Huizi frowned her pretty brows: "This is fine."

“My relationship with Ichiro is over. Now my father has been implicated by him and his situation is very bad. Going our separate ways may not be a bad thing.”

Hong Zhi poured two glasses of red wine from the wine cabinet.

He handed Jia Huizi a cup, shook his head, and continued, "You're thinking too simply."

"If you are just an ordinary person, then being together with your spouse is a good outcome."

"But who told you to be Takuichi Ōmura's daughter?"
“In order to save his own life, Ma Wendong will definitely push all the responsibility onto your father and you.”

He watched Jia Huizi's face change and continued, "The key point now is that the front line has confirmed that the Soviet Union received intelligence before Ishii released the bacteria."

"And this is also the key evidence pointing to Ma Wendong for leaking secrets and betraying the country."

"If you were in Ma Wendong's shoes, what do you think he would do?"

Jia Huizi's hand trembled slightly, the red liquid in the glass swirling, reflecting her uneasy face: "You...you mean he'll frame me?"

Hong Zhiyou walked to the window, looked at the deep night outside, and spoke in a cold voice.

"why not?
"Your leak gives those within the Army Ministry and the South Manchuria Railway Company who covet your father a pretext to attack him."

"As long as your father is brought down, Ma Wendong can be cleared of suspicion."

“I can even imagine the ways he’s going to deal with you.”

Jia Huizi pressed on eagerly, "What method?"

Hong Zhiyou turned around, rested his nose on his finger, and pondered for more than ten seconds.

"If it were me, to completely clear my name, I would..."

"First of all, I won't do anything to you at home; that would just lead to endless arguments."

"If he tries to frame me during our date, he'll only drag me down with him, and it won't get him out of trouble."

"The best way is to find a way to get you back to your parents' home."

"Then, they hid the intelligence in a very secretive way, framed you for sending intelligence to your maternal family, and thus implicated your father."

"Given the current technological means, if the goal is to frame someone, a large amount of important intelligence is definitely required."

"The document is too conspicuous, so we can only use film."

"That's right, it's Mycro microfilm. This way, it can convey important information without you noticing it."

Jia Huizi asked blankly, "Miniature film?"

Hong Zhiyou explained, "This is a new technological invention from your Japan, touted as a camera for special agents."

"At that time, he will put the microfilm in your suitcase or in the lining of a piece of clothing."

"Then, I asked a police friend in Beijing to check on you halfway through the journey."

"In that case, you won't be able to clear your name even if you jump into the Yellow River."

“Ma Wendong can take the initiative and expose your betrayal of Japanese intelligence before the military’s punishment and announcement are issued.”

"The reason is quite good: you are misled by me, or rather, by your father."

Jia Huizi was about to retort when Hong Zhiyou raised his hand to interrupt her:

Don't overestimate human nature.

"Your father is now like a clay bodhisattva crossing the river, barely able to save himself."

“His old friends might not dare to lend a helping hand; more likely, they would kick him while he's down.”

Jia Huizi fell silent; her previous languidness and tenderness vanished, replaced by a solemn expression.

"You mean, there's no way Ma Wendong and I can separate peacefully?"

Hong Zhi finished his drink and slowly said, "It's impossible."

I know you'll suspect I'm using you.

"But no matter what, you have no choice."

"Either you die, or Ma Wendong dies."

Jia Huizi's face darkened completely.

She straightened up, bowed respectfully to Hong Zhiyou, and then left without saying a word.

Hong Zhi looked at the closed door but did not chase after them.

He knew that this woman still had feelings for Ma Wendong and probably wouldn't be able to accept this cruel reality for a while.

He never expected to persuade her to take action with just a few words.

However, she is very smart.

Given Ma Wendong's personality, he would definitely take action.

Once Jia Huizi became wary, it was easy for her to discover those tactics.

A thousand words of advice are rarely enough to convince someone.

Stories can teach us a lesson, even the smallest thing can awaken us.

Once this seed is planted in her heart, she will be given the medicine sooner or later.

……

The next day.

Ma Wendong arrived at the office, closed the door behind him with a dull thud.

He pulled out stacks of important intelligence from the safe.

Some contained detailed information about Shiro Ishii's troops, some about the deployment and mobilization of the Kwantung Army, and even the latest intelligence on Yasuji Okamura's troops.

A large portion of this intelligence was purchased from various channels at high prices.

Click!

Click!

Ma Wendong took out a camera, adjusted the focus, and took pictures of the documents one by one.

A moment later, he pulled out the film and looked at it, his brow furrowed.

No, it's too big.

Such an obvious roll of film would easily be spotted by that slut.

That's right, Ma Wendong has made up his mind to betray Jia Huizi and his father-in-law, and to strike first.

Haha, Takuichi Ōmura is far more valuable than I am.

There are many people in the military who want to get rid of him. When the time comes, those guys will definitely support him and turn their attention to Ōmura Takuichi.

At this point, Ma Wendong no longer cared about family ties or personal interests.

Survival is the most important thing.

He immediately had his adjutant, Ogasawara, bring him a miniature camera.

Looking at the film roll, smaller than a fingernail, a smug smile finally appeared on Ma Wendong's lips.

Adjutant Ogasawara asked in a low voice, "Chief, is it time to retaliate?"

Ma Wendong put the camera away and shook his head.

"Not urgent.

"It's too hasty to act now. We need to calm down and think things through, or Madam might notice."

Lieutenant Ogasawara bowed and said, "Yes."

As he turned to leave, a chilling glint flashed in Ma Wendong's eyes.

Ogasawara knows too much.

Just now, didn't Hong Zhiyou just blow up Zhang Ling?

Maybe it's time to fry one for him again.

Incidentally, this will give Captain Yamamoto another pretext to kill Hong Ji-yoo.

……

a few days later.

During this period, Ma Wendong seemed like a completely different person.

He goes to and from get off work on time every day, and when he gets home, he spends time with Jia Huizi, either listening to her play the piano, reading with her, or even taking her shopping a few times, which is quite rare for him.

Those sweet words that used to come so easily are now on their lips again.

His gentleness and patience suggested that he was putting aside past grievances and eager to reconcile with Jia Huizi.

The couple vaguely returned to their days of harmonious marriage.

……

Inside the office.

Hong Zhi picked up a cannon and twirled it between his fingers. The Chu River and Han Border on the chessboard were filled with murderous intent.

He asked Zhou Yi, "Has Qiu Yan given birth?"

Zhou Yi shifted the position of the "cart" and shook his head.

"It's still a while away. There are people specifically looking after things over there, so don't worry."

His brows furrowed slightly.

"The problem now is that your sister-in-law's... husband, Zhang Pingru, wants to come down the mountain to be with her."

"I'm caught in the middle of this matter, and it's very difficult for me."

"Don't let him go? He's the child's father, and he's the person your sister-in-law needs most right now."

"You know, she sometimes goes crazy for Pingru."

“Let him go, but at this time, we have only just escaped from your uncle’s surveillance and suspicion.”

"Zhu Yi and Cui Wannian, the heads of the Special Affairs Section in Jiamusi, are both old foxes no less capable than Section Chief Gao. They have countless eyes on your sister-in-law right now."

“If Zhang Pingru goes to see her now, and the news gets out, with his face that is eight-tenths similar to Zhang Pingjun's, the ‘fake boyfriend’ I found last time will not be able to hide it at all, and Gu Qiuyan’s identity will be exposed immediately.”

Zhou Yi sighed and tapped his fingers on the table.

"Sigh, it's really a case of being stubborn and getting stuck at both ends, it's tough."

Hong Zhi smiled and sank the cannon to the bottom to checkmate.

"You can have Political Commissar Zhou pass on the message to him."

While dealing with the game, Zhou Yi said:

"It has been reported, but Zhang Pingru has a strong personality. He is the deputy captain of the Second Brigade on the Zhuhe side. Each brigade of the Anti-Japanese United Army operates independently and is responsible for its own area."

"Besides, Gu Qiuyan does live with me, so Zhang Pingru is bound to feel a little uncomfortable."

"If my brother relays this message, it might just ignite his stubbornness."

"It has already been announced that we are going to Jiamusi."

"This is really troublesome."

Hong Zhi asked, "Zhang Pingru can't be that insensible, can he?"

Zhou Yi smiled and said, "Men sometimes lose their minds when it comes to women, so you have to be careful. Can you help me think of a solution?"

Hong Zhi tapped a chess piece on the board with a "tap": "Simple, do you know Zhang Pingjun's code name?"

“I know, it’s called Snow Leopard,” Zhou Yi said.

"I had someone post several fake arrest warrants in Jiamusi. The posters looked roughly like Zhang Pingjun, and they were given his code name."

"When he saw the arrest warrant, he naturally backed down."

Hong Zhiyou said.

A glint of light flashed in Zhou Yi's eyes: "That's the only way."

As the two were talking, the office door was pushed open, and Gao Bin walked in.

"Oh ho, you guys are still in the mood to play chess."

Hong Zhiyou and Zhou Yi immediately stood up.

"Uncle." "Section Chief."

Gao Bin's expression was grave:

"We just received news that Ma Wendong's adjutant, Ogasawa-kun, was killed in a car explosion."

Zhou Yi's gaze sharpened instantly.

"It exploded again?"

He looked at Hong Zhiyou.

Hong Zhiyou showed no surprise whatsoever; instead, he gave a cold smile, sat back in his chair, and placed a "horse" piece in front of the formation.
"Hehe, they're coming for me."

"I'll accept it all."

Gao Bin's tone was full of worry: "We must not be careless."

“Ma Wendong has those three witnesses in his possession, which could easily be used to smear you.”

"Now that he's even sacrificing his own adjutant, he's clearly trying to increase his stakes on you, and he's probably going to get Yamamoto to make a move."

Hong Zhiyou remained expressionless.

"Uncle, I'm prepared."

"If Ma Wendong dares to make a move, he will face certain death."

His voice wasn't loud, but it carried an undeniable certainty.

"At the earliest, I estimate he'll be meeting the King of Hell tomorrow."

Gao Bin looked at him, still feeling uneasy.

"Regardless, I still suggest you lay low for a while."

Hong Zhiyou knew his uncle was cautious and, fearing he might worry too much, nodded.

"Okay, I'll listen to you, Uncle, and lay low for a while."

He turned to look at Zhou Yi.

"Old Zhou, call me if anything comes up. Also, remember to let me know your wife gave birth."

Zhou Yi nodded emphatically.

"necessary."

……

office.

Ma Wendong stood by the window, quietly watching the car burning fiercely on the street in the distance, thick black smoke shooting straight into the sky.

A cold smile appeared on his lips.

Mr. Ogasawara, I'm sorry, but blame yourself for knowing too much.

Since you are so loyal, let your life burn out its last bit of value.

He turned around, went back to his desk, and picked up the phone.

"Call Yamamoto-kun to my office."

Soon, Yamamoto Kenpo walked in: "Director Ma, please give your instructions."

Ma Wendong's voice was calm and even, yet it carried a chilling undertone.

“Hong Zhi is suspected of colluding with pro-government officials to assassinate Adjutant Ogasawara. Arrest him immediately and bring him to the police station for questioning.”

He paused, then looked up at Yamamoto.

"Remember, I don't need to see the person alive, I only need to see their body dead."

Seeing a hint of hesitation flash in Yamamoto's eyes, Ma Wendong raised an eyebrow: "Arrest him, and... kill him on the spot."

Yamamoto's body trembled, and he immediately bowed his head to accept the order.

"Yes!"

Ma Wendong waved his hand.

"You go back to the brigade immediately, and take advantage of Hong Zhiyou's unpreparedness to storm into the police station and arrest him. Remember, you must provoke them into causing trouble, and take the opportunity to kill Hong Zhiyou."

A fierce glint flashed in Yamamoto's eyes.

"understand!"

……

Special detachment base.

Military trucks were already running, their exhaust pipes spewing grayish-white smoke, and soldiers were fully armed, creating a tense atmosphere.

Yamamoto had gathered over a hundred elite subordinates and was giving them a loud address, explaining the details of the mission.

Just then, a military vehicle sped by and came to an abrupt stop in the center of the parade ground.

The car door opened, and a high-ranking military officer wearing a military overcoat stepped out.

Yamamoto took a closer look and was startled to find that the person who had come was none other than Yano Otosaburo, the deputy chief of staff of the Kwantung Army.

He quickly ran forward, stood at attention, and saluted.

"Your Excellency, what brings you here?"

Yano Otosaburo remained expressionless, his voice cold and hard: "Yamamoto-kun, the Shertaulagai Heights have fallen. The General Staff has decided to dispatch your unit immediately to the Nomonhan front to assist Major General Kobayashi in recapturing the lost territory."

"The situation is urgent. Your unit is requested to execute the order immediately."

As he spoke, he took out a transfer order from his pocket and waved it in front of Yamamoto.

Yamamoto was completely dumbfounded.

Go to the Sertauragai Heights?

That place is a meat grinder now. Both sides' planes and artillery have plowed up that grassland several times over. Sending them there would be nothing short of suicide.

Yamamoto forced a troubled expression onto his face.

“Your Excellency, I… I need to consult Director Ma first.”

"Snapped!"

Yano Otosaburo raised his hand and slapped him hard across the face.

"idiot!
"You are a soldier of the Empire! This is an order from the General Staff, and you must obey it unconditionally!"

Yamamoto was stunned by the slap and covered his face, lowering his head.

"Could...could I carry out Director Ma's orders before proceeding?"

Yano Otosaburo let out a cold laugh: "You have no right to bargain with me."

He waved his hand behind him, and several accompanying military police immediately stepped forward, their guns pointed menacingly at Yamamoto.

Yamamoto froze, all his struggles turning into helplessness.

"Okay... I will carry out your order immediately."

He turned around and waved to his subordinates.

The soldiers of the special detachment were puzzled, but they obeyed orders and climbed onto the vehicles.

Under the watchful eyes of the military police, the convoy slowly drove out of the military camp and sped away towards Nomonhan.

……

Five p.m.

Ma Wendong glanced at his watch and frowned deeply.

According to the plan, Yamamoto should have sent back news by now.

He called the guards outside the door in.

"Is there any movement from the police department?"

The guard shook his head. "Reporting to the chief, Captain Yamamoto did not go to the police station."

what?
Ma Wendong's heart sank. He immediately grabbed the phone and dialed the number of the special task force.

An unfamiliar voice came from the other end of the phone, reporting the location of the troops.

"Click."

The phone receiver slipped from his hand, and he slumped into a chair.

Damn!

Yamamoto was actually transferred away by Yano Otosaburo.

The fact that a deputy chief of staff could come to Harbin without any prior warning, and appear so promptly, clearly indicates that he has been keeping an eye on the regiment for quite some time.

Hong Zhiyou!
What a good idea.

No need to think, this was a backup plan that had been prepared long ago, just waiting for me to walk right into it!

Ok, good, good!
Ma Wendong clutched his forehead in pain, his temples throbbing.

He thought to himself that he had always been a master at infighting within the South Manchuria Railway and playing power games in officialdom, and that he was always shrewd and resourceful.

But now he's being completely outmaneuvered by a mere section chief in the police department.

I'm so angry!

Could this person truly be my destined nemesis?

A moment later, Ma Wendong slowly raised his head, and the chaos and anger in his eyes were gradually replaced by a cold calm.

He did not wallow in the emotions of defeat.

Right now, preserving my own life is the most important thing.

Once we've calmed down, we can slowly engage in a battle of wits with Hung Chih-yau.

……

Ma Wendong composed himself and returned home, his gentle smile returning to his face as if nothing had happened.

He and Jia Huizi were a loving couple, chatting and laughing together, seemingly as affectionate as ever.

That night, Jia Huizi lay in bed, her heart filled with a cold unease.

She didn't know why, perhaps Hong Zhi's words had taken root in her heart.

The gentler Ma Wendong was, the more dangerous she felt.

This man was like a venomous snake lurking in the shadows, making her feel a chill down her spine at all times, and she dared not relax her guard for even a moment.

The next morning.

Ma Wendong looked at Jia Huizi with tender eyes.

"Madam, I received a call from Xinjing last night. My father's health has not been good lately, and I am too busy with work to come."

"How about I trouble you to go back for me?"

Jia Huizi's heart skipped a beat, and she felt as if she had instantly fallen into an ice cave.

coming.

Sure enough, Hong Zhiyou, that scoundrel, was right about exactly what he had said.

Ma Wendong is about to make his move.

Jia Huizi maintained her gentle smile, her voice so soft it seemed to melt your heart.
"That's fine. I haven't visited my father in a long time. But Ichiro, please be careful in everything while I'm away."

"Your stomach isn't very good, so remember to eat less sashimi and salmon, and drink more porridge instead, it's good for your stomach."

A long-lost warmth surged through Ma Wendong's heart. For a moment, he felt as if he had returned to many years ago, when the two were newlyweds.

Ma Wendong smiled gently:

"Understood, Madam. Go and pack your luggage."

Jia Huizi nodded obediently.

As soon as she turned around, the warmth on her face vanished instantly, replaced by icy coldness, and her eyes were filled with unyielding despair.

She quickly packed her suitcase.

Ma Wendong said somewhat impatiently:
"There's a train to Xinjing in forty minutes. I've already arranged a car for you. Time is tight, madam, it's time to get going."

Jia Huizi didn't move. She turned around, took out a bottle of red wine from the wine cabinet, and slowly opened it, pouring two glasses.

She walked up to Ma Wendong with her wine glass in hand.

"Ichiro, I'm leaving now. I don't know when we'll meet again. Let's have a drink."

Ma Wendong had no doubts; in fact, he was even moved by the sorrow in her eyes.

He nodded: "Of course."

Ma Wendong accepted the wine glass.

Jia Huizi gently clinked glasses with him, then slowly raised the glass to her lips with an elegant gesture.

Ma Wendong, however, was in a hurry to send her "on her way," so he tilted his head back and downed the glass of red wine in one gulp.

After he finished drinking, he realized that Jia Huizi hadn't drunk any at all.

She simply stood there quietly, smiling as she looked at him.

But that smile grew colder and more blurred in his vision...

(End of this chapter)