Spy wars start with lurking Secretary Hong

Chapter 552 Make Friends First, Talk Money Later

Hong Zhiyou stood up straight, deeply grateful: "Thank you so much for your guidance, teacher. You've gone to so much trouble."

He knew that Old Wu had relented, so finding this group of people wouldn't be a problem.

Rui Rui is still the best.

Wu Jingzhong snorted through his nose, "Alright, you should go home now."

Hong Zhi bowed slightly, turned and left without uttering a single unnecessary word.

Silence returned to the room.

Wu Jingzhong, sitting in the rattan chair, suddenly turned cold.

He stood up and paced back and forth in annoyance.

Previously, when he learned that Rui Rui had fallen in love with Hong Zhiyou, he was furious and even sent a secret telegram to strictly forbid it.

It's true that he likes Hong Zhi because he has a knack for making money.

But Rui Rui is his only precious daughter, a golden branch and jade leaf, with a bright future.

How could I possibly spend my whole life on such a frivolous guy who's always chasing after women?

Not to mention becoming a stepmother to the son of a female bandit.

Wu Jingzhong absolutely cannot accept such a mess.

He was a major general in the Nationalist government, an elite of the party and the state. Where would he put his old face in the future?
Furthermore, Hong Zhiyou is a proud and ambitious young man, and it's obvious that he's fallen out with Boss Dai.

Wu Jingzhong knew Dai Li's methods all too well.

"Those who obey me prosper, those who defy me perish" is not just an empty phrase.

Hong Zhiyou may seem successful now, but he could become a forgotten corpse at any moment.

Therefore, he specifically asked his wife, Mei Qiuju, to introduce more talented young men to Rui Rui in the mountain city, whether they were from the business world or the military, as long as they had a clean family background and a bright future.

Who knew that a few days ago, someone who came from inside the pass brought a handwritten letter from his wife.

The letter said that Rui Rui had come clean.

I will marry no one but Hong Zhi in this lifetime.

If Hong Zhiyou dies, she will never live on alone.

Even with his eyes closed, Wu Jingzhong could picture Rui Rui's stubborn gaze.

He knew this girl's personality best.

Once she sets her mind on something, nothing can sway her, not even ten oxen could pull her back; she'd brave any danger, even mountains of knives and seas of fire.

If something were to happen to Hong Zhi, she might jump into the Jialing River without hesitation, or stab herself in the wrist.

Thinking of this, Wu Jingzhong let out a long sigh.

He only has one precious child, what else can we do?

This time, Hong Zhiyou has truly got him wrapped around his little finger.

He sat back down in the rattan chair, picked up the now-cold tea, took a sip, and felt a bitter taste in his mouth.

I just hope this kid will be smart enough to pay up and avoid trouble.

If we can't get past Boss Dai, we're all doomed.

……

night.

In Daoli District, in an inconspicuous old bungalow.

In the center of the room, firewood was burning brightly in an iron basin.

Several members of the action team huddled around the brazier, their necks hunched, holding large, rough porcelain bowls, rummaging through the cabbage and vermicelli stew in the pot, which was almost devoid of oil.

Ma Kui, with a cigarette dangling from his lips, leaned against the warm earthen bed, a newspaper in his hand, looking like a bird that was annoyed by everything.

"Brother Ma, dinner's ready."

The door creaked open, and a gust of cold wind, carrying snowflakes, rushed in.

His trusted aide, Yu Bo, carried a food box and strode in, quickly using his back to block the door.

Yu Bo is a native of Northeast China. The reason they were able to pass through the border smoothly this time was entirely due to the fact that Yu Bo's third uncle, who was the head of the special affairs section at the Shanhaiguan Police Station, issued an entry certificate.

Even so, the checks conducted by the Kwantung Army and police along the way almost exposed them.

Of course, Ma Kui didn't care about these dangers.

He was like a hunting dog that had caught the scent of blood; the more dangerous the mission, the more excited he became.

This isn't the first time they've caused trouble right under the noses of the Japanese and the puppet Manchukuo regime.

For this reason, Director Mao even gave him a nickname, "Zhao Zilong of the Military Intelligence Bureau".

Ma Kui stubbed out his cigarette, tossed the newspaper onto the bedding, and began to curse under his breath.

"Damn it, those Japanese devils just love to play dumb."

"The whole page is full of fake news, saying that there is a famine and flood in the interior, and that our compatriots are eating clay. They say that the people of Manchukuo are the happiest. They even listed a bunch of nonsensical data."

"That's like taking off your pants to fart!"

Yu Bo smiled and placed the food box on the kang table, lowering his voice.

"Hey, Brother Ma, keep your voice down. Walls have ears, and there are traitors everywhere in Harbin."

Ma Kui gave a cold laugh, not even bothering to lift his eyelids: "What, is Manchukuo not allowing people to speak?"

He glanced at the food in the lunchbox, his brows furrowing even more, his dissatisfaction becoming increasingly apparent.

"It's not a big pot of stew, it's just this sticky, salty stuff."

"Can't you make some stir-fried pork with chili peppers? Or at the very least, give me a plate of braised pig's head or braised beef!"

Yu Bo bent down even lower, a troubled smile plastered on his face: "The order was placed in a bit of a rush today, I'll ask again tomorrow."

He secretly groaned in his heart.

Captain Ma is indeed a capable person, but he's too picky, petty, and finds fault with everything. Sometimes when he gets angry, he even hits people, and he hits them really hard. Now everyone has to talk on tenterhooks, which is really unpleasant.

The food box contained three stir-fries and a pot of wine.

Ma Kui picked up a piece of sweet and sour pork with his chopsticks and chewed it without much flavor.

The brothers eating from the communal pot nearby couldn't help but swallow their saliva as they smelled the aroma of meat and wine, and their eyes drifted over.

Since Ma Kui was complaining that it wasn't tasty, he figured he could at least try to appease him.

"What are you looking at?"

Ma Kui glared at the group with displeasure. "You're eating what's in your bowl while eyeing what's in the pot? Do you want me to teach you how to eat?"

The men shuddered, quickly lowered their heads, and ate their rice in large mouthfuls, not daring to look in their direction again.

Ma Kui snorted, ignored them, and poured himself a drink.

He had just married a woman from Shanghai. Although she didn't come from a very good background, she was a local Shanghainese. She was particular about everything, from her clothes and appearance to how she entertained guests. She spent money like water.

Since I can't compromise myself on the expenses, I can only ask my men to use their share to cover my wife's expenses.

Besides, he's a major in the Military Intelligence Bureau, a trusted bodyguard of Director Mao. Why should he share meals with these guys below him?

Hey.

I'm craving the braised pork my auntie used to make.

Thinking of this, Ma Kui took out his wallet from his pocket and looked at the beautiful photos of his wife, Zhou Gendi, in a cheongsam.

The woman in the photo has a voluptuous figure and a seductive air about her.

That's really exciting!

Ma Kui gave the photo a quick kiss and felt a surge of heat coursing through his body.

Even the bland food and wine seemed to have become more delicious.

As they were eating, the sound of a car engine came from outside. Ma Kui's eyes sharpened, and he raised his chin alertly.

Yu Bo immediately understood and quickly walked out.

A moment later, he returned.

"Mr. Zhou is going to the Sakura Club to find out some information. He asked if you would like to come and sit with him."

A cold smile tugged at the corner of Ma Kui's mouth.

What kind of information gathering?

Those damn envoys under Boss Dai, wherever they go, they're always looking for ways to use public funds to drink and dine with women.

He had no interest in philandering; his heart was only set on his sweet and soft wife.

“Just say I’ve been following him all day and I’m tired, so I’m not going to keep him company,” Ma Kui said disdainfully.

Yu Bo nodded and turned to leave.

Beside a black sedan, a middle-aged man wearing a woolen overcoat and gold-rimmed glasses rolled down the window.

"Mr. Zhou, Captain Ma said he's tired and will keep you company another day."

Zhou Xi adjusted his glasses and nodded expressionlessly.
With a wave of his hand, the car window slowly rolled up, shutting out the wind and snow outside.

The car started and headed towards the Sakura Club, Harbin's most bustling and extravagant entertainment venue.

……

Sakura Club.

The black sedan pulled up in front of the door. Zhou Xi was a meticulous person; she carefully polished her shiny leather shoes and straightened the collar of her crisp wool coat before opening the car door.

Two bodyguards followed him into the club.

As soon as you enter, a fragrant breeze mixed with the scents of heating, sake, and women's cosmetics hits you.

In the hall, several geisha dressed in gorgeous kimonos were kneeling on the tatami mats. When they saw a guest enter, they immediately bowed in unison, their voices soft and melodious.

"welcome."

Zhou Xi's heart warmed instantly.

Although Chongqing was the wartime capital, it was ultimately a remote and isolated place. It lacked the decadent extravagance of Harbin and the presence of Japanese girls.

He stepped into the private room that had been reserved in advance.

Soon, two alluring geishas entered and poured them warm sake.

Zhou Xi embraced one of them, letting the warmth and softness dispel the chill, before contentedly squinting his eyes and asking in fluent Japanese.

"Excuse me, could you please call your manager here?"

As he spoke, he took out several brand-new Kande coins from his pocket and stuffed them into the geisha's bodice.

The woman quickly got up and walked out with small, delicate steps.

Not long after, the wooden door to the private room was gently pulled open.

A man dressed in a dark blue long gown, with a pocket watch hanging on his chest, and exuding an old-fashioned Northeastern vibe, walked in.

He first glanced at Zhou Xi, then asked with a smile:
"My name is Chun San, and I'm in charge here."

Zhou Xi picked up her wine glass and swirled it gently: "I heard that this is the property of Section Chief Hong of the Police Department?"

Chun San wore a professional smile, perfectly composed.

“That’s right, this Sakura Club is indeed owned by Young Master Hong.”

Zhou Xi put down her wine glass and leaned forward slightly:
“I’m friends with Mr. Hong. Could you please give him a call and tell him that a friend surnamed Zhou would like to meet him?”

Chun San glanced at the time on his pocket watch: "I'm sorry, Mr. Zhou. It's this late, Section Chief Hong is probably already resting and may not have time to come over."

Zhou Xi smiled faintly: "Just keep hitting."

He will come.

Chun San stared at Zhou Xi for a few seconds, then turned and walked out of the private room. Downstairs, he picked up the phone and dialed that familiar number.

After half an hour.

The door to the private room was opened again.

Hong Zhiyou walked in.

Peng Hu followed behind him, his eyes sharp as knives, scanning everyone in the room.

Hong Zhi waved his hand casually.

"You all go down."

Chun San's gaze fell on his face, with a hint of inquiry.

Hong Zhi shook his head.

Chun San immediately understood, bowed slightly, and led Peng Hu and the others out, gently closing the door behind them.

In an instant, only Zhou Xi and Hong Zhiyou remained in the room.

Zhou Xi raised her hand, making a "please" gesture, with a warm smile on her face.

"Major Hong, please have a seat."

Hong Zhiyou sat down opposite him and smiled:

"Mr. Zhou, I dare not accept such a title. When did I become a major?"

Zhou Xi smiled gently and said, "The boss often praised you in the mountain city, saying that you infiltrated the dragon's den and tiger's lair in Manchuria, and were not afraid of dangers and made many great achievements."

"He personally applied to the Chairman for your commendation and promotion to major."

"The boss values ​​you highly."

He paused, then added, "Of course, due to the special nature of your status, we can't hold a promotion ceremony for you. We'll make it up after the restoration."

"Top secret my ass."

Hong Zhi picked up his wine glass and drank it all in one gulp, then sneered, "This afternoon, someone followed me all the way."

"What, these people also know my 'top secret' identity?"

Zhou Xi's smile froze for a moment.

He didn't expect Hong Zhi to be so arrogant, showing no respect whatsoever and completely disregarding the rules.

He paused for a moment before asking, "Is someone following you? Could it be that the Japanese have become suspicious and sent a spy to monitor you?"

Hong Zhi looked at him with a playful expression: "Let's get straight to the point, Mr. Zhou. My time is very precious."

"Don't you get tired of going around in circles?"

Zhou Xi's expression turned somewhat unpleasant. He took a deep breath, forcibly suppressing his displeasure, and forced a smile back: "Section Chief Hong is indeed a straightforward person."

"Okay, then I'll just tell you."

He sat up straight, his expression becoming serious.

"Do you still remember the agreement between Boss Dai and you regarding ten thousand taels of gold?"

Hong Zhi nodded, his expression calm: "That's right, Station Chief Wu and I asked the boss for instructions back then."

"One thousand taels will be handed over each year, and the goal will be achieved over ten years."

"The boss agreed at the time."

Zhou Xi nodded, her tone becoming serious: "Of course the boss remembers."

"But times have changed. The boss felt that the situation was about to change, and ten years was simply too long."

He only looks at the present.

"Furthermore, the war is currently intense on all major battlefields in the country, with millions of soldiers fighting bloody battles on the front lines, and the expenses of each army group require a huge amount of funding."

"The boss hopes that you people of noble character and lofty ideals will prioritize national affairs, understand the hardships faced by the soldiers at the front, and act with utmost sincerity to share the burdens of the Party and the country."

I'll exterminate your ancestors for eighteen generations...

Hong Zhi cursed inwardly, but his face showed a troubled expression, and he sighed:
"Mr. Zhou, it's not that I'm unwilling to serve the Party and the country."

“It’s really difficult to mine this gold, and you have to bribe people everywhere. I really don’t have that much gold on hand.”

Zhou Xi seemed to have anticipated his response, and an expression of "understanding" appeared on her face:

"The boss knows your predicament."

"He also said that the matter could be mitigated as appropriate."

He held up four fingers:
"According to the original agreement, after deducting what has already been handed over, isn't there still nine thousand taels left?"

"The boss means that you should cut your losses in half and transport 4,500 taels of gold into the country first to solve the immediate problem."

Four thousand five hundred taels of gold!
Dai Li's appetite was truly enormous; he really dared to ask for more.

He looked at Zhou Xi's serious face and couldn't help but laugh out loud.

Zhou Xi's face immediately darkened, and her tone was clearly displeased.

"Why does Section Chief Hong smile without answering?"

"This is Boss Dai's order. I'm not discussing this with you; it's an order."

Hong Zhi waved his hand, his smile unchanged.

"It didn't mean anything else."

"One thousand taels a year, that's my limit."

He picked up his wine glass, brought it to his lips, and his gaze sharpened.
"Besides, even if I were truly capable of gathering these four thousand five hundred taels of gold for you..."

"Can you get it out of here?"

"boom!"

Zhou Xi slammed his hand on the table.

He abruptly stood up, pointing down at Hong Zhiyou:
"Young man, watch your tone!"

"I am speaking to you on behalf of the boss!"

Hong Zhiyou's smile grew even brighter as he raised his hand, gesturing for him to calm down and sit down.
"Look, it was just a joke, why are you getting so worked up?"

Zhou Xi was so taken aback by his words that her face turned bright red.

He forced himself to sit down, his chest heaving violently.

"Okay, then let's have a proper talk."

"Gold, can you actually gather enough? Give me a straight answer."

Hong Zhi picked up the wine pot and filled Zhou Xi's cup: "If someone else asked for this, I might not necessarily give it to them, but you, Mr. Zhou, are highly respected and an old friend of Station Chief Wu. How could I not give you this face?"
"Don't worry, I've prepared all the gold. I guarantee you'll be able to deliver comfortably."

"Okay, let's not talk about money tonight, let's be friends first."

"drink wine."

……

(End of this chapter)