Chapter 54: The Brilliance of Soldiers

The jeep finally came to a steady stop at the entrance of the family quarters. Mu Nanhe, Yang Qingyan, and Chen Feng got out and looked at the familiar courtyard, filled with sentiment.

As soon as the door was opened, the inside of the house was clean and tidy, without a speck of dust. Chen Feng smiled and said, “How about that? Knowing you were coming back, I cleaned up in advance.”

Yang Qingyan’s eyes lit up with surprise, and she quickly replied, “Thank you, Brother Chen! Let’s eat dinner here tonight; I’ll go buy some groceries.”

Mu Nanhe joined in, “Chen Feng, stay for dinner.”

Chen Feng readily agreed, “Of course! I’ve been wanting to taste my sister-in-law’s cooking!”

Just then, Liang Huantao hurried in with Xiao Hu, carrying a bag full of vegetables. “Qingyan, I heard you guys were back. I figured you might be out of food, so I brought some for you.”

Yang Qingyan was both surprised and delighted as she rushed over, “Thank you so much, Sister! I was just about to go buy some vegetables. Xiao Hu, come here; let me check your pulse.”

Xiao Hu obediently walked to Yang Qingyan’s side and extended his little hand. Yang Qingyan seriously checked his pulse, and after a moment, a look of satisfaction appeared on her face. “Sister, Xiao Hu has gained weight! He doesn’t need acupuncture anymore; I’ll write you a prescription so that he can take some medicine for a month to consolidate his health. After that, he can just do regular health supplements.”

Liang Huantao’s eyes brimmed with tears as she grasped Yang Qingyan’s hand excitedly. “Qingyan, it’s all thanks to you! If it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t know what to do. You’re Xiao Hu’s savior!”

Yang Qingyan said, “Sister, let’s all have dinner together tonight; we can gather.”

Liang Huantao eagerly nodded, “Yes, yes! I also want to express my gratitude to you.”

Thus, everyone divided the tasks. Yang Qingyan went out to buy groceries, while Liang Huantao washed the vegetables and cooked rice.

When Yang Qingyan returned with her packages, the evening glow was falling on her, creating a warm scene of homecoming. As soon as she stepped inside, she immersed herself in the kitchen, where pots and pans began to create a joyful symphony under her touch. Before long, enticing aromas wafted from the kitchen, summoning everyone’s appetites in the living room.

The dining table was filled with dishes that were both colorful and delicious. The braised spare ribs shone with a bright ruby color, tender and juicy; the steamed fish was fragrant and delicate; and there were refreshing seasonal vegetables, beautifully arranged to please the eyes. Chen Feng looked at the feast before him and his eyes lit up. He couldn’t wait to grab a piece of rib and popped it into his mouth, instantly conquered by the rich flavor.

“Sister-in-law, your cooking is simply amazing! Today, I’m in for a real treat!” Chen Feng praised while devouring the food, a satisfied smile stretching across his face.

Liang Huantao chimed in with a laugh, “Qingyan, if you opened a restaurant, your business would undoubtedly be booming!”

Yang Qingyan’s cheeks flushed slightly as she felt a little shy. “Sister, Brother Chen, you’re exaggerating; it’s just home cooking.”

Mu Nanhe looked at Yang Qingyan with eyes full of love and said softly, “Qingyan, you’ve worked hard. Every dish here carries the flavor of love.”

As everyone enjoyed the delicious meal, they shared amusing stories from their lives. Xiao Hu ate heartily, occasionally bursting out with innocent remarks that caused everyone to laugh heartily. The room was filled with laughter, and a warm atmosphere enveloped every corner.

After finishing their meal and feeling full, everyone gathered in the living room to chat. Chen Feng suddenly remembered something important and quickly turned to Mu Nanhe, saying, “Nanhe, I almost forgot to tell you. Tomorrow, you’ll be attending the troops’ commendation conference, where there will also be a ceremony for your appointment as captain. The military region takes this very seriously; this commendation conference is of high standards.”

Mu Nanhe was slightly taken aback, but soon a surprised and excited expression filled his face. “Receiving recognition from the military district is not only an honor for me but also a pride for our entire team.”

Hearing this news, Yang Qingyan’s heart was filled with happiness as she gently held Mu Nanhe’s hand, excitedly saying, “Nanhe, congratulations! Your hard work and dedication have finally paid off.”

Chen Feng smiled, saying, “Sister-in-law, this is a big day. You must attend. Tomorrow, the military district will surely be lively; elites from all troops will gather together.”

The Next Day

The morning sunlight shone like scattered gold flakes, evenly illuminating the military district. The courtyard was bustling with activity, colorful flags flying, and elites from various troops standing in formation, their postures upright and their military bearing solemn.

Mu Nanhe, dressed in polished military attire, stood tall, the medals on his chest gleaming brightly in the sunlight, reflecting his past glory and accomplishments. Yang Qingyan stood beside him, her eyes filled with pride and love as she carefully adjusted his collar. “Nanhe, you look especially handsome today.”

Mu Nanhe gently held her hand, smiling, “Qingyan, I wouldn’t be here today without your support by my side; this honor is also half yours.”

Just then, Chen Feng hurried over, pushing a wheelchair, his face radiating excitement. “Nanhe, it’s time for us to go onstage! Everyone is waiting to witness your shining moment!”

Mu Nanhe nodded as he settled into the wheelchair with Chen Feng’s assistance. Yang Qingyan followed closely beside them, and the three made their way to the center of the assembly. Along the way, soldiers cast them admiring looks, expressing the highest respect for Mu Nanhe.

When they arrived at the awards platform, the head of the military district personally stepped forward to shake Mu Nanhe’s hand. In his eyes was admiration and satisfaction. “Mu Nanhe, your performance during this incident has been exemplary, showcasing not only the courage and fearlessness of a soldier but also a strong commitment to justice. Your deeds inspire every soldier and serve as a model for everyone to learn from.”

Following that, the head solemnly read the commendation decision and the appointment letter for captain. Each word seemed to carry substantial weight, resonating throughout the venue. Thunderous applause erupted from the audience, echoing for an extended period.

Chen Feng pushed Mu Nanhe slowly onto the stage, and Mu Nanhe straightened his back, taking the certificate of honor and the sword that symbolized his power as captain. His gaze was resolute and passionate, as if at that moment, he saw his future mission and responsibility unfold before him.

“I vow to hold myself to a higher standard, lead the troops courageously forward, and safeguard our country and the people!” Mu Nanhe’s voice was loud and firm, reverberating through the entire military district.

The soldiers below raised their right hands in unison, saluting Mu Nanhe, chanting, “Learn from Captain Mu! Salute to Captain Mu!”

Yang Qingyan stood below the stage, her eyes shimmering with tears of excitement. She looked at Mu Nanhe on the stage, her heart full of emotion. This man was her beloved, her pride, exemplifying the true spirit of a soldier through his actions.