Chapter Ninety-Nine: Su Zuxin Extends a Gesture of Goodwill

“Commander Chen, truly remarkable! To think you dispatched only two battalions and wiped out an entire Japanese advance regiment—simply outstanding!” Long Zhi and Chen Dabiao had just returned with their troops when Su Zuxin, the commander of the 135th Division, hurried over to offer his congratulations.

Chen Qingzhi was taken aback by the praise.

He had only just learned of the success himself and had yet to spread the news. How had Su Zuxin found out so quickly?

Unable to restrain his curiosity, he asked, “Commander Su, you’re truly perceptive. I only just received the news, yet you already know!”

Su Zuxin chuckled and replied, “Isn’t it obvious? I saw your troops returning to the city. Though there were some casualties, the losses weren’t severe. More importantly, everyone wore smiles on their faces. Such spirits aren’t what you’d expect from troops simply repelling the Japanese or retreating after a defeat at Shuanglong Valley. The only conclusion is that your forces have annihilated the invading Japanese vanguard!”

“And the Japanese vanguard was a whole regiment. It wasn’t hard to piece together the outcome with a bit of thought.”

Chen Qingzhi raised his thumb in admiration. “Commander Su, you truly have a sharp mind. I’m deeply impressed! Indeed, just as you said, the Japanese 7th Field Infantry Regiment was completely wiped out by our forces. Their regimental commander, Izawa Kazuo, was also killed, with only a little over a hundred managing to escape.”

Su Zuxin laughed heartily. “What splendid news! To have destroyed a Japanese regiment at the very start of the campaign—Commander Chen, this is a tremendous achievement! Your troops have set an excellent precedent for the defenders of Dingyuan! Such a victory is a powerful morale booster for all our soldiers stationed here.”

Chen Qingzhi replied modestly, “As soldiers of the Republic, it is our duty to bravely fight and defeat the enemy. I dare not claim any credit.”

Though pleased inwardly, he maintained humility before Su Zuxin, a seasoned commander.

Su Zuxin’s gaze held approval.

Those truly capable often harbor some pride and, after success, may become arrogant. But Chen Qingzhi, in his eyes, was someone of great ability yet remarkably humble—never arrogant or overbearing, always cautious and reserved.

In truth, in the military, no matter the achievements, one must always be vigilant. War is fraught with unpredictable dangers.

A moment’s carelessness or arrogance can lead to severe losses on the battlefield—losses that often cost lives.

Chen Qingzhi was now the commander of the Independent Brigade. Although officially demoted to acting commander, everyone knew he was the true leader.

Moreover, he was deeply favored by General Chen Cheng and had even caught the attention of Chairman Chiang Kai-shek. His future was undeniably bright.

Chen Qingzhi himself was a man of talent and prudence, destined to become a remarkable figure.

For Su Zuxin, forging a friendship with Chen Qingzhi, given his rank and experience, was a boon for his own future.

In the army, alliances are crucial. One never knows when a friend might save one’s life amidst the chaos of war.

Su Zuxin understood this well, which was why he spoke to Chen Qingzhi without airs.

Chen Qingzhi, in turn, was pleased to cultivate this camaraderie.

He had heard of Su Zuxin’s prowess in battle and his fierce hatred for the Japanese enemy. Befriending such a man was something Chen welcomed wholeheartedly.

After their cordial greetings, the two sat together in the Independent Brigade’s forward command post. A soldier served them tea, and they pored over a map, discussing their next strategic moves.

Chen Qingzhi said, “Commander Su, although we have eliminated the Japanese advance troops, we cannot afford to relax. The main body of the Japanese 9th Division is still behind them and will likely arrive soon. We must prepare for another fierce battle.”

“I hope our two units can collaborate closely to firmly contain the Japanese within Dingyuan County.”

“Brother Chen, I understand your strategy,” Su Zuxin said with a knowing smile. “You deployed your troops outside the city for a purpose. I know you’re no ordinary man, and though I can’t pry into your plan, I’m certain it’s ambitious.”

“We’re stationed together here at Dingyuan, working in concert, but I know you won’t limit yourself to holding just this city,” Su Zuxin’s eyes gleamed as he looked at Chen Qingzhi. “After observing you for some time, I realize you have a unique way of fighting the Japanese. We’re all Chinese, none willing to be slaves in our own land. We’re all eager to kill more of those devils!”

“If you have a plan, then act boldly without hesitation! Strike hard against the Japanese and let them know that we Chinese are no cowards!”

“I can’t say much else, but as long as the 135th Division holds on, Dingyuan will never fall. If Dingyuan does fall, that means the 135th has been completely wiped out.”

Su Zuxin’s voice was firm and sincere.

Hearing this, Chen Qingzhi nodded gravely. “With your words, Commander Su, I am reassured.”

Chen Qingzhi could tell that Su Zuxin spoke from the heart, genuinely committed to fighting the Japanese.

Who says our soldiers don’t fight with spirit? Who claims we fear killing the enemy? Such rumors are false.

Men like Su Zuxin are countless in this era—unsung heroes. It is because of their existence that our nation, despite inferior equipment, has been able to endure fourteen years of grueling struggle against the Japanese and eventually drive them out of China.

Moved by Su Zuxin’s words, Chen Qingzhi stood and gazed toward the distant mountains and rivers.

These are the splendid landscapes of our homeland, now defiled by invaders. How can a soldier remain indifferent?

Though my strength may be small, I will guard the magnificent rivers and mountains of our motherland, ensuring they suffer no further harm from invaders!

Great China, the Celestial Empire, how can we allow a tiny island nation to run rampant?

(End of chapter)