Chapter 22: Physical Training

At this point, Lin You had a clear look at Lu Li’s features. Despite three months of training, his skin was still a light tan, different from the darker skin of others, likely due to his natural complexion. He was tall, lean, with a steady and composed bearing. His charming, almond shaped eyes were deep and expressive, with a high nose bridge that added a handsome, refined quality to his face.

Lu Li showed no shyness under Lin You’s observant gaze, confidently meeting her eyes. Lin You, however, was the first to look away, feeling a bit embarrassed.

Lu Li’s cheerful voice broke the silence: “Sister in law, you were so quick that day! I was curious, who taught you those moves?”

Lin You felt puzzled by his question. “Sister in law, don’t worry about it. I just thought your moves looked familiar.”

“Familiar?” she asked.

“Yes, very much so. My father used the same technique and said it was taught by a close friend of his, though that friend has since passed. He’s been looking for that friend’s family.”

Lin You found this odd, as her moves were taught by Qin Lang’s father, which didn’t align with what Lu Li described.

“Actually, the person who taught me is very much alive and has a family,” she replied.

Lu Li’s face fell in disappointment, and Lin You, feeling a bit sorry, added, “Maybe I can ask him for you.”

Lu Li’s expression brightened with hope. “Do you have other family members?” he asked cautiously.

Lin You sensed he might know about her parents’ passing and became guarded. “Of course, I have my parents.”

Once again, Lu Li’s hope seemed dashed, and he looked even more disappointed.

“Is this important to your family?” she asked.

“Yes, it is,” he replied.

“All right, I’ll ask for you,” she promised.

After work, she shared her conversation with Lu Li. Qin Lang listened, finding it odd. No one had inquired about Lin You’s family background for years, so why would Lu Li ask now? Lin You’s only family had passed, and Lu Li didn’t seem like someone with a romantic interest in her. The excuse Lu Li gave also seemed unconvincing, Lin You’s technique was based on speed but lacked advanced skill or strength. He suspected Lu Li was probing her background.

Seeing Lin You’s worried expression, he reassured her “Lu Li’s a good person and very straightforward. Since he asked openly, he’s likely not hiding anything. I’ll consult my father.”

Lin You nodded in agreement.

On the weekend, while in the city for supplies, Qin Lang called Professor Song and asked him to discreetly inquire with his father about Lin You’s family. Professor Song confirmed that she had no other relatives but promised to double check.

As autumn arrived, the weather was comfortable, warm but not too hot. The female soldiers from the medical team still preferred to have lunch in the shade of the vine covered corridor. Captain Song arrived with a notice in hand.

“Once you’re done eating, everyone gather for a meeting,” he announced.

When they were assembled in the conference room, he delivered the news “All female soldiers in the unit will start a new round of physical training next week, lasting 15 days.”

The announcement was like a thunder clap, and the room erupted in murmurs.

“What? Wasn’t it only seven days in previous years?”
“Why is it so much longer this year?”
“How are we supposed to handle this?”

Captain Song sighed, seeing the concern and frustration among his team.

“It’s a new rule. We’ll split it into two groups one for internal medicine, the other for surgery,” he said before turning to leave.

Head Nurse Deng quickly blocked his way. “Captain, splitting into just two groups isn’t practical. If only one department shuts down at a time, it’ll put too much pressure on the others and could cause issues.”

After some thought, he replied, “Fine, organize your own teams as you see fit.”

He glanced at Lin You. “Your coach will be Qiong Hua.”

This announcement sparked even more discussion. Lin You was worried. Her physical strength wasn’t great, though she had been through some training during her studies, Professor Song often let her out of it due to her weaker constitution. She never imagined there would be mandatory training here too.

Later, Qin Lang saw the notice and stormed into the captain’s office. “Why is Qiong Hua assigned to train the medical team?”

The captain handed him a cigarette, smiling as he replied, “This is a standard assessment for the medical team. Don’t you know?”

“I know that. But why Qiong Hua as the coach?”

“No one else is available, and she volunteered.”

Qin Lang, exasperated, said knowingly, “You’re looking for potential female special forces members, aren’t you?”

The captain wasn’t phased. “Only you would see right through me.”

He patted Qin Lang on the shoulder. “When you used to select recruits, you were meticulous and tough. So why be so soft with your own family? Everyone goes through it.”

Qin Lang sighed, staring at him. “She’s really not suited for it. Her health isn’t great, and I’m worried Qiong Hua might give her a hard time.”

The captain lit a cigarette, thoughtful. “If she’s unfit, she can build up her strength. I’ve instructed Qiong Hua to keep the training light, and I’ve asked Wen Xin to keep an eye out.”

Qin Lang nodded, somewhat reassured. He agreed that Lin You could use the exercise. Her health had indeed seemed fragile lately, tiring easily after work. Training would be beneficial, he thought.

But it didn’t cross Qin Lang’s mind that her weakened state was largely due to his own intense romantic enthusiasm.