Glory, The Mistress of the House (7)
e to pull her back and keep her safely in his arms. He compromised because he felt the sheer destructive urge emanating from her—the feeling that she was weighed down by some unseen force, and that al...In the canteen, high-ranking officials led by Jiang He Shan had a separate table to themselves, seated by the window. The rest of the special forces soldiers, who had disbanded their ranks, sat down as usual. After all, they were elite soldiers, the best of the best, so even with an important officer sitting among them, they weren't trembling like frightened quails. They continued to eat and chat as usual, but their voices were deliberately lowered, concealing their usual swagger.
Xi Yuezhong sat with those high-ranking officials. As the leader of the special forces and a lieutenant, he was qualified to be at that table. Besides, he and Rong Ling were so close; he had to bring him along.
On the seating arrangement, Jiang He Shan naturally took the central position. Lin Meng brought her two children and was seated on his right. Then Xi Yue Zhong, due to his close relationship with Lin Meng, sat beside them as a family of three. The others followed suit, taking their seats on Jiang He Shan's left side according to their status. Later, three more people arrived, looking at their epaulets - one major general and two colonels. They were also extremely formidable figures, probably having rushed over upon hearing the news.
The three of them sat down, and the dishes were also served. Jiang He Shan gave a command, and everyone started to eat. During the meal, Jiang He Shan, despite being the leader, showed the demeanor of an elder. He occasionally helped the two younger ones with their food and even clipped some for Lin Meng several times. This naturally showed his importance placed on this mother and son trio.
Others naturally couldn't appear cold as they weren't very familiar with Lin Meng, and it wasn't good to ask questions rashly. So, they used the previous incident involving the two children as a starting point and asked them.
"Youyou and Haohuo, grandpa asked you, when you grow up, will you join the army Grandpa heard about your performance just now!"
This question was asked by the later general!
Little Youyou replied naturally, "We can talk about that when we grow up!"
"Where is Haohao!"
He finally spoke. “I’m just like my brother!”
He was never one for talking. He only became talkative when he was with Lin Meng and Xiao Youyou.
Some people started to laugh and say, “Don’t you think this military camp is great Look at these uncles here, don’t you think they are very strong Don't you want to be as strong as them And there are many fun things in the military camp, such as playing guns, cannons, tanks, and airplanes.”
What he said next clearly piqued the two children's interest, but despite their interest, they still shook their heads. It seemed like they were determined to wait until they were older before making a decision.
This looks pretty amazing. What's called a childlike heart, is actually to be fickle and indecisive. Today you like this, tomorrow you like that, nothing lasts forever. But all of you present can obviously see the two youngsters are interested, yet still shake your heads. This piques their interest.
“These two kids are something else!” one person exclaimed. “At such a young age, they have so much determination and independence, it’s rare to see. My youngest is practically changing every day, he can’t compare to these two. I think it’s time I find an opportunity for my little one to play with these two more often, it’ll do him good to learn from them.”
Jiang He Shan said, "The children are good, but that's also because both of their mothers taught them well. Look at my little one, she was taught very well by her!"
The Jiang family's affair is no secret, after all, it caused quite a stir back then, and besides, Jiang Changhao has always been so flamboyant. Everyone here has heard about young Jiang Haofeng's story. But today, he seems vastly different from what we've heard before. Just from the martial arts he displayed a moment ago, one can tell that he is exceptionally talented.
If the rivers, mountains and everything else were attributed to Lin Meng by Jiang He Shan, then the conversation would naturally shift to Lin Meng.
One person immediately drafted a petition. "Hee hee, Lin Meng, I wonder how you usually teach the little ones"
Before these high-ranking officials, Lin Meng naturally couldn't be careless. After some deliberation, he spoke softly and briefly, finally summing up: “Actually, bringing up children is probably similar to leading soldiers. It requires a balance of relaxation and discipline, and it’s important to cultivate their interests. As long as you can grasp this balance, I think the results should be pretty much the same!”
Several officers burst into laughter all at once.
“Wonderful, wonderful!” A middle-aged general with slightly gray hair stood up and gave Lin Meng a thumbs up. “Old Jiang, you’re right! Your daughter-in-law is truly exceptional. She can even connect teaching children to leading soldiers in such a simple and understandable way. Ha ha, she's made me realize that raising kids isn't so difficult either, is it It's just like leading troops! Ha ha, I’ve led countless soldiers under my command!”
"Yes, yes!" The others looked at Lin Meng with approval.
Then the old man chuckled and said, "Another day, I'll have my daughter-in-law talk to you and get some advice. I have a little troublemaker at home who drives me crazy!"
"Well, you'd better make time another day then!" Jiang Heshan continued. "She's incredibly busy these days, and today I specifically asked her to clear her schedule to come here."
"What are you busy with" someone casually chimed in.
"Busy with Asia Dong's affairs!"
"Who's that, Ya-dong" someone exclaimed.
"Besides that, what else could there be!" Jiang He Shan sighed. "This girl isn't easy. Her godfather, Hao Hao, disappeared, and the burden of the entire group fell on her shoulders. It's a pity for this girl, she's about the same age as those recent college graduates, but she has to carry the whole group forward!"
There was a tinge of wistfulness among the crowd, and several pairs of eyes looked at Lin Meng with a hint of something different.
While there have been reports about Lin Meng before, they were mainly from entertainment media and occasionally appeared in financial news. Those who don't follow these sources probably wouldn't know much about her. The officers stationed in the barracks mostly deal with military affairs, so not many of them would be familiar with her.
But A-dong, they know!
Here's a woman who should be treated like a precious jewel, yet she's now taking charge and showing great courage for the entire East Asia region! It's truly impressive. No wonder her two sons are so outstanding as well!
It's just this Southeast Asia.... Rong family....
For a moment, no one dared to speak. They were all in important positions, so it was naturally impossible for them to be completely cut off from information. Otherwise, who knows how they would die one day
Then the river, mountains and hills spoke again.
"But, this girl is quite capable. She's like a whirlwind, clearing the path for Asia-East! Heh heh, in my opinion, there isn't anyone younger than her who can compare!"
"You flatter me!" Lin Meng immediately said modestly.
"Well, well, that's no exaggeration. You're going to be a force to be reckoned with once you have everything under control in the East. Just wait and see, everyone will be looking up to you!"
He said, “Get the situation completely under control,” and he “guaranteed” it!
This has been explained very clearly!
Lin Meng smiled again, but this time it was a confident smile. This time, she didn't shy away from the praise.
Then the old and young all laughed. "At that time, I'll have my daughter-in-law go find Lin Meng and bring our little demon king along too, hehe, there will definitely be room then."
"Some, some." Jiang Heshan Dai Linmeng replied.
Others immediately chimed in, either suggesting their wives go find Lin Meng or sending their children, or even both wives and children together. This sparked a heated discussion. Since it involved the children at home, there was much to say. These men, with their high ranks, were mostly over forty years old, except for Xi Yuezhong. Most of them had already had children, or currently had children at home. Talking about this topic led to endless chatter. Naturally, within this discussion, Xiao Youyou and Xiao Haohuo were frequently questioned. The two children were clear-headed and quick-witted, responding very appropriately. They seemed rather mature, but because they were still young, being spoiled and protected by Lin Meng, they occasionally revealed traces of childishness. This subtle mix made them even more endearing. It felt like these two kids just grew on you the more you looked at them. You couldn't help but want to take them home and raise them.
These officials were chatting animatedly. At the door, one or two heads were peering in. Jiang Heshan sat in the center, facing the door, so he saw them. After those black heads poked in a few times, Jiang Heshan raised his voice and shouted.
"Bring those out there in! Come on, get in here and show yourselves!"
Three tall, equally sturdy men walked out of the canteen. They awkwardly smiled at Jiang He Shan and quickly ran to his side. They saluted all the leaders present in unison. Then they stood there without daring to speak, waiting for their scolding.
Jiang He Shan said with a grumpy tone, “All of you are here to see your sister-in-law, aren’t you!”
The three of them immediately looked at Jiang He Shan with bright eyes.
Jiang He Shan pointed with his finger, instructing his guards to add three seats next to Xi Yue Zhong. This was a signal for them to take their seats. The three men immediately thanked him in unison and, without bothering the guard, happily found stools and sat down themselves.
These three individuals, one captain and two lieutenants, are all on the verge of promotion. They consistently excel in their duties, even though they aren't leading special forces. They have a knack for training their soldiers effectively, and they are considered key assets to be nurtured within the unit, shining stars within the ranks. Everyone present is familiar with these three individuals.
At the dinner table, there was only one woman. The leader said they were here to see their sister-in-law, meaning they were here to see Lin Meng. But they truly didn't know that Lin Meng had such a good relationship with these three people. Moreover, Lin Meng and Xi Yuezhong also got along well. Xi Yuezhong also called her "sister-in-law" affectionately. He was very close to her. The relationship between Xi Yuezhong and the three of them was also very good. There must be something they could talk about!
Several pairs of eyes scanned back and forth, raising suspicions in their hearts.
The rivers, mountains, and scenery were all within his sight, but he remained silent. He waited until the three people had taken their seats and everyone's curiosity was piqued before he spoke.
“They three, and Da Zhong, were all under the command of Haohao's godfather Rong Ling back then. The soldiers Rong Ling trained in that period were exceptional; they were all top-notch. Those four, I really had to put in a lot of effort to get them back. It's a pity that he only led that one batch of soldiers!”
Speaking of this, Jiang Heshan sighed repeatedly. He was truly feeling regretful. Otherwise, how many good soldiers there would be now! Rong San's side also had successors a long time ago, so it wouldn't have been trampled on like that by those short-sighted people!
As soon as he said this, not only the four people involved, but also several other officers couldn't help but be surprised. They truly didn't know about this.
The political commissar, privy to the inside information, smiled knowingly and affirmed Jiang Heshan's statement.
"Well, well, the leaders certainly went all out to recruit you four back then. But you four have really delivered, never letting down our military. I told you, the leader was right to personally come and get you – he has an eye for talent!"
Jiang He Shan said loudly, "I chose Rong Ling from the start. His soldiers must be top-notch!"
Everyone was shocked!
If before, Jiang He Shan was only subtly hinting, then now, he is directly implying it!
He values Rong Ling, and Sun Zi also gave Lin Meng a band. That means he values the Rong family with Rong Ling as the head, and the Yadong with Rong Ling as the CEO. So, those who don't know what's good for them, just watch out!
Dazhong and the three others heard this, their eyes immediately reddened, and they all cried out in unison, "Leader!"
Jiang He Shan waved his hand and scolded lightly. "Alright, alright, don't give me that look. You're soldiers, don't be like this! Your sister-in-law is sitting right here, don't you worry about her laughing at you!"
The four of them suppressed their tears with difficulty, turned around and whispered to Lin Meng and the two children. Other people also occasionally interjected a few words. These four were so valued by the leader, and they were true talents who were willing to work hard and study diligently. They would definitely be even more valued in the future!
This meal was leisurely, with everyone chatting and eating for nearly an hour. After the meal, everyone else dispersed, leaving only Da Zhong and his three companions, walking and talking with Jiang He Shan and Lin Meng. In fact, most of the conversation was between those four and Lin Meng, recounting their experiences serving under Rong Ling. Jiang He Shan listened quietly from the side.
When the afternoon training session was about to begin, Da Zhong and his three companions reluctantly returned to their respective positions. Jiang He Shan then took Lin Meng and her son back to the office building. At noon, the sun was scorching hot, and it wasn't very suitable for strolling around in such intense heat.
Back in the office, Jiang Heshan asked the security guard to bring over a chilled watermelon, cut it open, and let everyone eat it to beat the heat. Then, he asked the security guard to bring some military models over, and he played with the two children.
The leader's time is, of course, precious. That he could specifically spare time to play with the two children like this shows his love and care. Lin Meng sat on the side, watching the old man and the two little ones play.
Time flies. Lin Meng glanced at her watch, it was past 2:30 pm. She remembered that she had an invitation from Old Master Yu in the evening, so she felt it was time to say goodbye.
"Leader, I'm afraid we have to go..."
Jiang He didn't even lift his head as he said, "Are you going to Old Yu's place"
Lin Meng was slightly taken aback.
"No need to rush, it's not seven yet. Just stay here for a while, the time will be almost up, I'll have them delivered to Old Yu's place."
This bowl of noodles looks a bit too wide open. These two heavyweight figures, did they discuss this beforehand!
This guess grew larger and larger in her heart. She thought for a moment, then said, "Uncle Yu said someone would come to pick me up. Since you say so, I'll give him a call so he doesn't make a wasted trip!"
Then Jiang He Shan raised his eyes and shook his head at Lin Meng.
“You, you little thing, playing favorites! Why do you call me Leader and Old Yu "Uncle Yu" He's a leader, and so am I. As for age, he's even older than me. So you have to call me Uncle too! Besides, I just acknowledged you as my daughter-in-law, calling me Godfather isn't asking too much!”
Lin Meng immediately called out, "Uncle Jiang," and then explained in a low voice. "About your godfather, it's best to wait until Rong Ling returns. This is a big matter, and I want to discuss it with him."
If she acknowledged her father, her husband would also have to call him "father." Given Rong Ling's personality, it's unlikely he would agree.
"Jiang He Shan just glared at her. 'You really are a stupid girl, I gave you opportunities and you didn't even realize them. So many girls outside would kill to be my goddaughter, yet you push yourself away!'"
Lin Meng didn't mind, she just smiled faintly.
She doesn't care about that, and there's no need for her to compare herself to other girls outside.
The river, mountains and hills didn't stir a bit when they saw her. He wasn't particularly bothered or annoyed. This girl clearly intends to climb the social ladder by attaching herself to someone of higher status. She should have started buttering him up when she first brought Haohao here. Even when speaking about his daughter-in-law just now, she could have taken the opportunity to call him "Dad," but from start to finish, not a single "Dad" came out of her mouth. Instead, she cleverly used "You" throughout their conversation, avoiding any awkwardness for others who might have followed suit and called her "daughter-in-law."
What a sharp mind!
It's a pity that she can't truly become his wife.
Look at her writing, every word and line is filled with reserved elegance. This is a rare display of integrity!
"About what happened to East Asia, just relax. After tonight, everything will be fine." He explained to her in a low, powerful voice that made it hard not to believe him.
As for the path ahead, that's entirely up to you!
This is blatant showing off.
Lin Meng's beautiful eyes flashed, a hint of smile appeared, and she sincerely said softly, "Thank you!"
Jiang He Shan waved his big hand like a fan.
"Family, no need to be so polite!"
After finishing speaking, he lowered his head and started playing war games again with the two little ones.
Thus, after another hour had passed, Jiang Heshan personally escorted the mother and child down to their car. Watching them drive away, he then turned back towards the building.
The guard drove straight to the courtyard where Old Yu lived.
Everything that happened today is already spreading like wildfire. Everyone who needs to know knows. Some people are starting to feel uneasy. When the news finally came out that the guard had directly taken the person to Old Master Yu's house, they couldn't help but think: This wind direction is going to change, isn't it
Old Master Yu, today this house has a distinguished guest. It is a founding hero who has already reached the age of one hundred. Such a heavyweight figure is not an ordinary person, and some may find it overwhelming.
Soon, many eyes were fixed on the Yu family.
Lin Meng brought the two children into Mr. Yu's living room. The first thing that caught their eyes was a white-haired old man. He looked very old, his body couldn't withstand the ravages of time, and he stooped uncontrollably. However, the feeling he gave wasn't weariness, but an unyielding firmness. He felt like steel, even though it was repeatedly bent, it remained unyielding. His face also had obvious age spots, making his complexion appear somewhat dull. But his eyes refused to grow old; when he looked at people, they shone with vigor. His gaze wasn't harsh, but it made you feel uneasy and naturally respectful.
To be able to sit in the Yu family's living room at such a time, and even Old Master Yu only sat below him, this old man must be extraordinary. His background is definitely not ordinary, he must be quite remarkable. Moreover, there was a big man in uniform standing behind him, who should also be a bodyguard or something.
Lin Mengxiang, this is definitely an extraordinary person!
Especially, he is so old!
Because he didn't know the details, Lin Meng simply nodded to the old man and first greeted the master of the house, Old Master Yu. Then, he turned his attention back to the old man.
"This is my old boss!"
That was all she said, and she said no more.
Lin Meng nodded respectfully at the elderly person again. "Hello,"
He called back to the two children, addressing them as "Grandpa." The two little ones were polite and called him "Grandpa" in return.
Also present were Elder Yu's grandchildren, as well as Lin Meng and her two children, who all greeted each other.
After the pleasantries were over, Old Master Yu inquired about the guard who brought her there, and in doing so, he casually asked about Jiang Heshan. Lin Meng then talked about what had happened there. When she mentioned that the two young men had fought in front of so many special forces soldiers and won, earning rounds of applause from Old Master Yu, the old man's gaze immediately fell on the two youngsters. The two sensed it and straightened their spines, looking back with curiosity, sporting a naive, fearless attitude like newborn calves. The old man kept his eyes fixed on them, staring intensely, both sides seemingly eager to outdo each other, almost turning into a squinting contest.
This scene lasted until Old Master Yu's family had their dinner.
This meal was eaten in silence, unlike the lively lunch back at the camp. The elder seemed to be quite old, so he ate very slowly. And today's menu clearly catered to his taste, focusing on easily chewed and digestible dishes, which happened to be what Lin Meng had been enjoying lately as well. She also ate very slowly, her taste aligning with the elder's. The elder glanced at her a few times but didn't say anything.
In the silence, a meal was finished. To be honest, there was a slight feeling of oppression. However, it didn't really affect their appetite. At least Lin Meng ate comfortably, and the two little ones also did not treat their stomachs badly.
Finally, the group moved back to the living room and began drinking tea. The old man finally spoke, but addressed the two young children.
"Come here!" he beckoned.
Two children passed by, but it wasn't for the elderly man, but for the gun hanging from his waist. Since they came in, their eyes have been darting back and forth to that gun many times. The old man obviously noticed. So, when the two children approached, he asked with a more friendly tone.
"Like this gun" he rasped, his voice a low murmur that betrayed his age.
Both of the little ones nodded in agreement.
"Do you know what kind of gun this is"
The two little ones nodded in unison again.
"Oh" the old man was somewhat interested. "Tell me about it!"
Little Haohao was unwilling to speak, looking at Little Youyou instead. Little Youyou asked cunningly, "If I tell you, Grandpa will you lend me this gun to play with"
The old man's eyes widened slightly, and he spoke with more emphasis. "If you want to play, you have to get familiar with the gun's performance first. This gun isn't for people who don't understand it!"
A crisp voice came out of the little boy's mouth immediately.
The FN M1910 pistol, also known as the "flower mouth" or "yanghou", was designed by the Belgian FN company in 1910. It has a barrel length of 89 millimeters and an overall length of 152 millimeters. The rifling is six-grooved, right-hand twist, with a pitch of 249 millimeters. Its sighting line measures 132 millimeters. The width is 29 millimeters, the height 119 millimeters, and it weighs 0.58 kilograms. It has a 7-round capacity, an initial velocity of 295 meters per second, and an effective range of 50 meters.
Each precise piece of data, mechanically uttered from the little one's mouth, silenced the entire room, including Lin Meng.
The old man was clearly excited, his eyes lit up, and he sat straighter.
Xiaoyou said again, "This kind of gun was commonly used by my army's staff and regimental officers during the Anti-Japanese War, but most were not bought but captured from the enemy. Grandpa, this gun looks very historical, was it captured at the time"
The old man's eyes welled up, as if he was instantly reminded of the dusty, sand-filled, battle-ridden, blood-soaked sunset of the Anti-Japanese War. It felt like it had just happened yesterday.
He could come back to his senses, but all that remained was him sitting here!
He looked at the little thing, slightly dazed, then reached out and pressed down on the gun, drawing a Browning from its holster.
Little Youyou naturally reached out with one hand!
The old man said solemnly, "You have to catch it with both hands!"
The little boy stared at the old man for two seconds before extending his other hand to form a gesture of receiving with both hands. His attitude became respectful, his small face tightened, like a little warrior. The old man placed the gun heavily in the boy's hands. The boy's hands and arms dipped slightly, but he immediately stabilized them. He defiantly met the old man's gaze. Though small in stature with small hands and short arms, his strength was considerable.
"Chief!" a middle-aged man in uniform, who had been standing behind the old man all along, called out in a low voice, seeming to disagree.
Old Master Yu also called out. "Old Chief, this can't be done!"ght not understand, but how could he not understand He had personally handed Lin Meng over to someone else to live with after Xiao Lang died! Only his mother still didn't believe it, mumbling that he...