In the fiery red era of the heavens, refrigerators are refreshed daily.

As night deepened, the courtyard house, like a slumbering beast, fell silent in the cool autumn air. A few occasional barks from outside the walls broke the stillness, adding to the desolation and unease.

In the east courtyard, Yang Guangming lay on his bed, but he was not sleepy at all.

In his memory, in mid-to-late October 1948, the commander of the Kuomintang North China "Suppression Headquarters" in Beiping formulated and attempted to carry out an extremely bold and dangerous plan—to launch a surprise attack on Xibaipo, the central government's headquarters in Pingshan, Hebei.

This plan was called "Piercing the Heart Plan".

Its core intention was to take advantage of the fact that the main force of the North China Military Region Field Army of our Party was fighting in Suiyuan and Chahar at that time, and that the troops in the Jizhong and Pingxi areas were weak, to organize a fast and elite mechanized force, equipped with cavalry and demolition teams, to launch a surprise attack, a long-distance raid, and directly strike Xibaipo, the heart of the Central Committee.

They attempted to destroy the command center of our Party in one fell swoop, creating huge chaos and panic in order to reverse their passive situation on the North China battlefield.

Historically, this plan was indeed put on the agenda by Fu Zuoyi, and troops were mobilized and prepared.

"If we could have obtained this plan earlier, even just a day or two earlier, it would have allowed the central government to respond more calmly and make more thorough preparations, minimizing the risks."

Yang Guangming could almost see that, thanks to the early arrival of intelligence, more blocking troops could be deployed in advance at key passes, local militias could more effectively harass enemy supply lines, Xinhua News Agency's exposé articles could be written in more detail and with greater deterrent power, and even the leaders' transfers could be made more unhurried.

The importance of this top-secret strategic plan is self-evident.

With his advanced understanding of the times and grasp of the course of history, coupled with the special abilities granted to him by the refrigerator space, he felt he could give it a try and perhaps gain access to the core of the plan sooner.

This was undoubtedly a huge adventure, a dance on the edge of a knife, but behind the enormous risks lay immeasurable strategic value.

"Operation Heart Piercing" is a top military secret of the Kuomintang, so it is guarded extremely closely. Those who come into contact with it are of very high rank and are subject to strict surveillance.

Stealing it would be as difficult as climbing to the sky.

The secret service and the garrison command were as sensitive as hunting dogs; any slight disturbance could lead to annihilation.

But he felt there was a glimmer of hope. His spatial abilities allowed him to retrieve objects remotely without physical contact. This was an ability tailor-made for this kind of mission.

If he could get close to the place where the plan was stored or passed on, such as certain confidential offices, a specific person's briefcase, or even a folder carried by the commander.

Even a brief stop within three meters could provide an opportunity to stealthily "take away" a crucial document in an instant. Ideally, the contents should be recorded first, leaving time to return it.

However, such an operation would be too risky for him to undertake alone.

He needs someone to help him gather basic information, someone to provide support from the outside, to keep watch, relay messages, create reasonable cover for his identity, and even assist in evacuation in emergencies.

He needs to develop multiple plans, and he will need assistance with whichever plan he chooses to implement.

He thought of Jiao Da and Jiao Er.

These two brothers are of impeccable political background and have a clean family history. They are upright, righteous, dissatisfied with the status quo, and have simple class sentiments.

Having received the medicine and made contact with him before, they trusted him greatly and were grateful and wanted to repay the favor.

More importantly, they possess excellent physical fitness and certain martial arts skills, as well as relatively stable mental fortitude, remaining calm under pressure. They are suitable candidates to serve as external assistants.

Of course, they are not yet members of the organization, and their ideological awareness and discipline still need to be cultivated and observed.

But time waits for no one. "Operation Pierce the Heart" may already be in the works. In Fu Zuoyi's staff, the battle map may be being refined and the elite troops to be selected to carry out the mission may be being selected.

He must persuade Teacher Zhu as soon as possible to begin training and evaluating the Jiao brothers, and to use them to a limited extent at the appropriate time.

It's like playing a game of chess; he has to plan ahead, even if the pieces are still immature.

Amidst his chaotic thoughts, the sound of the watchman's clapper came from outside the window; it was already past midnight. Yang Guangming forced himself to close his eyes, conserving his energy; the battles to come required a clear mind and abundant stamina.

The next afternoon, Yang Guangming arrived at Teacher Zhu's house on time.

The chrysanthemums in the courtyard have bloomed, carrying a faint, bitter fragrance.

After completing the routine theoretical study and work report, Yang Guangming said to Zhu Mingxuan with a solemn expression, "Teacher, there is something very important that I would like to talk to you about."

Seeing the student's unusually serious expression, Zhu Mingxuan knew it must be something important and said in a low voice, "Oh, what is it? Tell me."

"These are some ideas about our future work."

Yang Guangming organized his thoughts, "Recently, I've clearly felt that the atmosphere in the city is becoming increasingly tense."

The activities of spies became more frequent and the checks became more stringent, prices soared, and public discontent was boiling.

I feel that the situation has reached a very critical juncture, and I'm afraid... the final battle is not far off.

Zhu Mingxuan nodded slightly, his expression becoming serious: "Your feeling is correct; the higher-ups have made similar judgments."

The closer we get to this point, the more complex and brutal the struggle becomes. We must be even more vigilant and take even more action.

“It is precisely with this in mind,” Yang Guangming said, getting straight to the point. “I think it is necessary for us to strengthen our own capabilities in advance.”

Many jobs nowadays, especially those requiring travel, reconnaissance, or the delivery of important items, are not only inefficient but also too risky if I'm alone.

He paused, then explained in detail: "For example, in a simple surveillance operation, it is difficult for a person to persist for a long time without being noticed. It is easy to lose track of the target and also easy to be counter-tracked."

If it is necessary to move sensitive or large items, it is difficult to deal with emergencies if one person acts alone, making them an obvious target.

Sometimes, even when all that's needed is a reliable eye to keep an eye on things in a specific location, I can't manage it all by myself.

Zhu Mingxuan listened attentively, tapping his fingers lightly on the table to signal him to continue.

"Therefore, I think it is time to consider developing some reliable progressive masses as our peripheral assistants to help complete some essential tasks that do not involve core secrets."

Yang Guangming finally gave his core suggestion: "After a long period of investigation, I believe that the two brothers, Jiao Da and Jiao Er, who live in the front yard, are the most suitable candidates."

He then elaborated on his reasons for recommending the Jiao brothers, emphasizing their class background, character, abilities, ideological leanings, and their personal trust in Yang Guangming.

"They are strong and healthy, have a foundation in martial arts, are bold yet meticulous, especially Jiao Da, who is quite steady in his actions."

Based on previous contacts and recent observations, I believe they are credible and trustworthy.

"If they could become my assistants, the efficiency and security of many tasks would be greatly improved."

Yang Guangming concluded, "Developing and progressing forces has always been a requirement of the organization."

At this critical juncture, I believe it is both necessary and urgent to plan ahead and reserve manpower for more challenging tasks later on.

Zhu Mingxuan listened in silence, his face revealing little emotion.

He carefully considered every word Yang Guangming said, weighing the pros and cons and risks involved.

Working underground is like dancing on a knife's edge; every expansion of personnel means increased risk, but it can also be an opportunity to open up new prospects.

After a long while, Zhu Mingxuan slowly spoke, his voice low and serious: "Guangming, your considerations are very thorough, and they are indeed based on the difficulties we encounter in our work."

The current situation is severe, and strengthening our forces is an inherent need, as has been given in response to directives from higher authorities.

He then changed the subject, his tone becoming more serious: "However, we must be extremely cautious in developing new members, especially comrades who may be involved in specific work."

This isn't a dinner party; it's a matter of organizational safety and the lives of all our comrades!

After thinking for a moment, Zhu Mingxuan continued, "Your observations and analysis of the brothers sound like they meet the requirements."

I will report your suggestions and application in detail to the higher-level organization, and the organization will make the decision.

But before you receive clear approval from your superiors, you absolutely cannot reveal any information about our organization to them, not even a single word!

Furthermore, we must not assign them any tasks that might expose their identities!

Zhu Mingxuan emphasized, word by word: "If, I mean if, the higher authorities approve your application, then you must conduct the evaluation of them rigorously and meticulously."

We must adhere to the highest principle of 'better to have none than to have something of poor quality'!
Ensure they are absolutely politically reliable, calm and cautious in character, and tight-lipped.

Safety is always the top priority!

Zhu Mingxuan continued to explain the discipline, "Even if they start to participate in the work in the future, for a considerable period of time, you will be the only one who can contact and control them."

They were not allowed to know anything else about the organization, nor could they contact other comrades.

Their scope of tasks must also be strictly limited to the non-core areas that you have assigned and approved.

Understand? "

"I understand, teacher!"

Yang Guangming nodded solemnly, "Please rest assured, you and the organization, I will strictly abide by the discipline and conduct the inspection with the strictest standards to ensure the safety and stability of the entire process."

I made this suggestion in order to better carry out our work and cope with more complex situations in the future. We will never act rashly and bring risks to the organization.

Seeing Yang Guangming so calm and sensible, Zhu Mingxuan's serious face softened slightly, and a hint of relief flashed in his eyes.

He patted Yang Guangming on the shoulder: "It's good that you have this idea and sense of responsibility. I will report it to my superiors as soon as possible."

Remember to patiently await the organization's decision.

Until then, everything remains the same; do not act rashly.

"is teacher."

Yang Guangming was certain that things had taken the crucial first step in the expected direction.

All that remains is to await the organization's decision and to make full preparations to welcome any new missions and new comrades-in-arms that may come.

He knew that persuading Teacher Zhu was only the first step; more severe tests and more meticulous work were yet to come.

After leaving Teacher Zhu's house, Yang Guangming felt an even heavier burden on his shoulders.

He looked up at the vast autumn sky over Beiping, where a few wisps of clouds drifted by, carrying a sense of impending storm.

Two days later, in the afternoon, Yang Guangming came to Teacher Zhu's house again. As soon as he entered, Zhu Mingxuan nodded to him, his eyes carrying a hint of seriousness, and gestured for him to go into the study.

The two entered the study and closed the door. Zhu Mingxuan didn't speak immediately, but first poured Yang Guangming a glass of water before sitting down and getting straight to the point: "The higher-ups have studied your report and suggestions."

The sun shines brightly; hold your breath and wait quietly.

"Regarding your application for developing and advancing mass assistance work, the higher authorities have, after careful consideration, approved it in principle."

A hint of joy flashed in Yang Guangming's eyes, but he quickly restrained himself, knowing that there would be a "but" to come.

"but."

Zhu Mingxuan's tone shifted, "As expected, the higher authorities emphasized that under the current severe white terror, development work must be carried out with extreme caution, and there can be no room for wishful thinking."

You are authorized by your superiors to conduct in-depth investigations and provide necessary basic training to Jiao Da and Jiao Er, but you must strictly adhere to the following principles.

Zhu Mingxuan spoke slowly and deliberately, making sure Yang Guangming could hear every word clearly.

Yang Guangming listened attentively.

"First, during the observation period, you need to conduct a comprehensive and multi-faceted verification and evaluation of their family background, social relationships, personal conduct, and ideological dynamics, and form a written report."

We must not only listen to their words, but also observe their actions, especially their reactions when interests or dangers are involved.

Second, during the observation period and in subsequent tasks, it is strictly forbidden to disclose to them any core secrets about our Party's organizational structure, personnel list, activity patterns, contact methods, etc.

Your identity cannot be revealed to them for the time being.

They can only know that you are doing something 'dangerous but meaningful,' and you are responsible for determining the specifics.

Third, they are only your personal 'friends' or 'helpers', and you contact and use them directly.

They are not affiliated with any branch and do not participate in other activities within the organization. Your interactions should be as natural as possible, avoiding any sense of routine.

Fourth, if any suspicious points or unsafe factors are discovered during this process, contact must be stopped immediately and reported to superiors. No hesitation should be given due to personal feelings or the urgency of the task.

In short, better to have fewer but better products, and safety first. Understand?

Zhu Mingxuan's gaze was sharp, fixed on Yang Guangming.

"Understood, teacher. I will definitely strictly abide by the rules and act with caution," Yang Guangming solemnly promised.

"it is good."

Zhu Mingxuan's expression softened slightly. He took out a small notebook from the drawer and handed it to Yang Guangming. "This contains some key points for the inspection, precautions for basic training, and simple anti-tracking and emergency handling techniques."

You need to strike a balance; you need to be thorough, but you can't arouse their suspicion or resentment.

Training should be conducted gradually, starting with the most basic emotions and principles.

"Yes." Yang Guangming took the notebook.

Carrying the organization's approval and a heavy responsibility, Yang Guangming left Teacher Zhu's house.

He knew that the next step of examining and guiding the Jiao brothers would be crucial, not only because it was necessary for the mission, but also because it concerned two young lives and their yearning for a brighter future.

As evening fell, the setting sun painted the gray-walled, black-tiled courtyard with a layer of dilapidated gold.

Yang Guangming returned to the courtyard, ate dinner, and as usual, took a walk in the courtyard, chatted casually with the neighbors, and then seemingly casually walked to the vicinity of the Jiao family's house in the front yard.

Jiao Da was sitting on a small stool by the door, wiping a machete with careful and focused movements in the last rays of daylight.

Jiao Er was practicing with stone weights in the courtyard, making loud "hey-ha" sounds, his muscles bulging in the twilight, full of power.

"Brother Jiao, Second Brother Jiao, busy?" Yang Guangming greeted them with a smile, his tone relaxed and natural.

"Mr. Yang!" Jiao Da quickly put down his machete, stood up, wiped his hands on his clothes, and showed a simple and honest smile.

Jiao Er also put down the stone lock, wiped his face with the towel draped around his neck, and came closer with a simple and honest smile.

"Nothing much, just came over for a visit." Yang Guangming said casually. "If you're not busy, why don't you come to my place? I'd like to talk to you about something."

He deliberately made his expression appear casual.

Jiao Da and Jiao Er exchanged a glance, both seeing a hint of doubt in each other's eyes, but more so a trust in Yang Guangming and a faint expectation.

"No rush, no rush!" Jiao Da quickly replied, "Mr. Yang, if there's anything you need, just let me know. There's no need for you to come in person."

"Yes, yes, we're fine," Jiao Er echoed, rubbing his hands together.

"Let's go then." Yang Guangming smiled, turned around and led the two towards the east courtyard. The three of them passed through the hanging flower gate. The neighbors chatting and relaxing in the courtyard glanced at them but didn't pay any attention.

Arriving at the east wing where Yang Guangming lived, he closed the door behind him.

"Brother Jiao, Second Brother Jiao, please sit down." Yang Guangming pointed to the edge of the bed and the only chair in the room.

The two sat down somewhat awkwardly, their backs ramrod straight, their hands on their knees, looking at Yang Guangming, waiting for him to speak.

Yang Guangming didn't speak immediately. Instead, he picked up the rough porcelain teapot on the table and poured a bowl of cool boiled water for each of them.

This gesture made the Jiao brothers feel that something was amiss. Although Mr. Yang was usually amiable, this was the first time he had received such a formal reception.

"I called you over because I wanted to have a talk with you."

Yang Guangming put down the teapot, sat down opposite the two, and looked at them calmly, yet his calm gaze seemed to have the power to penetrate people's hearts. "Let's chat casually and hear your opinions on some things."

Yang Guangming needs to reaffirm their ideological foundation.

“Mr. Yang, please feel free to ask whatever you want. We brothers will tell you everything we know, and there will be no falsehoods,” Jiao Da declared.

"Okay." Yang Guangming nodded, picked up the bowl in front of him, took a sip of water, and then slowly put it down. "What do you think of the world now?"

This question is rather broad. Jiao Da paused for a moment, scratched his head, and said in a muffled voice, "What else can we do? Chaos!"

Life is tough, getting worse every day. The rich get richer, and the poor are starving. Look at the price of grain, rising three times a day! I reckon it won't be long before it's like the legal tender again—even the gold yuan is too hard to use for cleaning up!"

His words were filled with barely suppressed resentment.

Jiao Er chimed in, his tone even more indignant: "Exactly! We work hard all day, and the money we earn can't even buy a pound of cornmeal! If my dad hadn't injured his leg, our family would be better off..."

But in this world, it's hard for good people to survive! Those officials only know how to make money; they don't care about the lives of ordinary people! What a damn world!

He became more and more agitated as he spoke, and his face turned red.

Yang Guangming didn't comment; he just listened quietly and observed their expressions.

It was a pain and anger that came from the bottom of one's heart, and it couldn't be faked.

Yang Guangming continued, "So, why do you think this is happening? Why is life so difficult? What's the root cause?"

Jiao Da frowned, deep in thought. The question was beyond his usual understanding: "Why? Because the officials are heartless and profit from the national crisis! Those high-ranking officials and those unscrupulous merchants collude together and don't treat us ordinary people like human beings at all! They're like vampires, sucking our blood and sweat!"

"And then there are the soldiers, who conscript men everywhere, extorting and levying taxes, they're no different from bandits..." Jiao Er added.

He had a distant cousin who was conscripted into the army, and his fate remains unknown.

"Hmm." Yang Guangming acknowledged that he had heard him, then changed the subject, lowering his voice, "Have you heard of the north... you know, the Red Party's territory? Have you heard of their forces?"

Upon hearing this, both Jiao Da and Jiao Er's expressions changed slightly. They subconsciously glanced at the closed door again, their breathing becoming more rapid.

This topic is extremely sensitive right now; discussing it in private could lead to your death.

Jiao Da lowered his voice and said cautiously, "I've heard some things... circulating on the streets, it's hard to tell what's true and what's false."

The officials said they were... communist bandits, committing murder and arson. The common people said... they seized land from the wealthy, distributed it to the poor, and fed them.

He carefully chose his words, paying attention to Yang Guangming's reaction.

Jiao Er also whispered, with a hint of inquiry: "I think I heard some of the dockworkers say that their team... doesn't take anything from ordinary people, and even pays them for things. They're quite kind to the poor? I wonder if it's true..."

Yang Guangming observed the two men's expressions and saw that apart from caution, they did not show any obvious resistance or fear. On the contrary, when they mentioned "land reform" and "being kind to the poor," their eyes revealed a hint of curiosity and longing.

This is a very good foundation.

“I’ve heard some things too,” Yang Guangming said, following their lead, his tone calm, as if stating a fact.

"It is said that in the areas they control, there are not as many messy taxes as there are now, workers can get real wages, and child laborers and female laborers are protected."

Their army was highly disciplined and known as the people's army; it was common for them to help ordinary people carry water and sweep the streets.

He was stating objective facts, but in this context, saying them represented a bias, a silent form of guidance.

Jiao Da and Jiao Er's eyes lit up slightly, as if they had seen a glimmer of light in the darkness.

Jiao Da licked his dry lips, his voice lower, trembling with longing: "If that's really the case... then it's a way out for the poor... We ordinary people just want to have food to eat and not be mistreated..."

"Yes!" Jiao Er sighed, his eyes somewhat unfocused, as if imagining such a scene. "If only things could be like that here... my parents wouldn't have to sigh and lament every day..."

Yang Guangming knew perfectly well that the time was almost right.

The first in-depth conversation should not be too direct. The main purpose is to understand their background, guide their thinking, and ignite the spark in their hearts.

He needs to give them hope, but he can't rush things.

“Yes, everyone wants to live a good life,” Yang Guangming concluded, then changed the subject, his tone becoming serious. “But you mustn’t say these things outside. Walls have ears, and you might get into trouble. Just keep it to yourself.”

“We understand, Mr. Yang!” Jiao Da immediately assured him, his expression stern. “We’re just telling you, we won’t mention a single word about it once we’re out here! We’d rather die than say a word!”

"Yes, yes, we know what's important." Jiao Er nodded quickly, making a zipping motion with his hand over his mouth. (End of Chapter)