THE REBEL resumo, enredo, sinopse

Sinopse de THE REBEL

In 1936, a young Renaissance Society cadre training class participant, Lin Nansheng, was taken to Shanghai by Chen Moqun, the Shanghai district chief of the Renaissance Society.

Chen Moqun got a contact site of the Shanghai underground from a traitor and analyzed that Zhu Yizhen, a student of HJU, was the liaison of the Shanghai Committee of the Communist Party. Chen Moqun asks Lin Nanshang to get close to Zhu Yizhen and infiltrate into the underground party.

In the process of carrying out his assignment, Lin Nansheng is constantly attracted by the sense of mission and fearless sacrifice of Gu Shenyan, Ji Zhongyuan, Zhu Yizhen, and other communists for the country and the people. Then he thinks deeply about the chaos of Kuomintang and social reality.

Lin Nansheng was brave and resolute in the struggle against the intruder and the traitor, and he fought with the Communists for the overall national interest at stake.

After nearly a decade of recognition and choice, on the eve of victory in the anti-Japanese war, Lin Nansheng grew up to be a Communist.

In the following war of liberation, by his special status in the military spy organization, he provided great help to the underground party at some critical moments, making an important contribution to the founding of New China.

Resumos de THE REBEL

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In the summer of 1936, the Nationalist Party's Reconstruction Society's Secret Service in Shanghai, under the leadership of Station Chief Chen Moqun, escalated its persecution of progressive individuals. The city, outwardly prosperous, concealed a dark reality where brutal interrogations were common. During a rainy night, a captured Communist informant, subjected to severe torture, confessed details about the Huxi liaison station and a liaison named Wang Zhi.

However, the informant succumbed to the harsh treatment and died before revealing the address of the Jiangsu Provincial Committee. Deputy Station Chief Wang Shi'an reported this to Chen Moqun, who quickly dispatched agents to apprehend Wang Zhi, warning that the information must remain confidential. Unbeknownst to them, Mu, a Communist operative, had already received intelligence about the exposure. He swiftly contacted Wang Zhi, urging him to destroy documents, and immediately evacuate to Xinyang, where another comrade would assist him.

When Chen Moqun and his men arrived at Wang Zhi's residence, they found it deserted. The still-warm bed and recently extinguished charcoal indicated a narrow escape, further confirmed by a dropped raincoat. Frustrated by yet another missed capture, Chen Moqun suspected the presence of a mole within his ranks, responsible for leaking critical information. To address the internal threat and find a trustworthy aide, Chen Moqun traveled to Nanjing to select outstanding agents.

While awaiting candidate files from the principal of a special training program, he encountered Lin Nansheng. Lin Nansheng, a trainee, displayed remarkable observational skills and deduction when he correctly inferred Chen Moqun's origin from Shanghai based on his car model and newspaper preferences. The principal explained that Lin Nansheng, a Normal University graduate, had joined the program out of a desire to serve the country, showing stronger aptitude in intelligence studies than military training.

Dissatisfied with the existing assessment methods, which he deemed too basic, Chen Moqun ordered an impromptu, strenuous assessment at Xiaolingwei. During the rigorous physical test, Lin Nansheng, despite the physical exertion, meticulously observed and reported specific details about a military truck and the soldiers guarding it, including their number, a wounded soldier, and even the color of their collar badges.

Another trainee corrected one detail about an infantryman's badge, which Chen Moqun confirmed, impressed by their keen observation under difficult conditions. Chen Moqun then had a private conversation with Lin Nansheng, during which Lin Nansheng articulated his belief that while education could change a generation, the immediate foreign invasion demanded direct military service.

Chen Moqun underscored the gravity of their oath, emphasizing lifelong loyalty to the party, warning of severe punishment for defection, and instructing him that a gun must only be pointed at those who betray their party, country, or leader, with traitors deserving a fatal shot. Chen Moqun then formally welcomed Lin Nansheng to the Shanghai Secret Service. Before departing for Shanghai, Lin Nansheng bid farewell to his close friend Zuo Qiuming.

Zuo Qiuming, though not selected for Shanghai, graciously congratulated Lin Nansheng, assuring him of his superior suitability for the role. He presented Lin Nansheng with a pen as a token, and they shared a poignant salute, expressing hope for a future reunion. Upon their arrival in Shanghai, the bustling city initially overwhelmed Lin Nansheng, whose naive demeanor amused Chen Moqun, recalling his own past.

Chen Moqun took Lin Nansheng to a tailor, where he offered guidance on blending in, emphasizing the importance of appearance in their line of work, and stressing the need for unwavering, lifelong loyalty to the party, as human nature could be fickle. Soon after, word came that Wang Zhi had been apprehended by the Nanjing garrison command's inspection team at the train station.

Chen Moqun ordered Deputy Station Chief Wang Shi'an to retrieve Wang Zhi, stressing that the escort process must be kept entirely confidential, with no one else to be informed. In his office, Chen Moqun then explained Lin Nansheng’s primary mission: to root out the mole within the Secret Service. He explicitly stated that Lin Nansheng was to report only to him and that any inquiries from other personnel about his duties would indicate their suspicious intent.

He provided Lin Nansheng with identification and a service pistol. Chen Moqun recounted a significant intelligence leak in 1934 and Wang Zhi’s recent escape, which solidified his belief in an internal traitor. He presented Lin Nansheng with personnel files of those with access to sensitive information, from section heads to drivers, highlighting his efforts to narrow down the pool of suspects.

Lin Nansheng astutely suggested a phone leak, which Chen Moqun confirmed involved a suspicious call to an Italian firm that had led to a dead end. Chen Moqun concluded that the mole was cunning and the investigation must be conducted covertly. Later, Gu Shenyan, the director of the record office, returned to the station. He subtly observed Chen Moqun's car, noticing a Nanjing newspaper inside. Gu Shenyan then visited Chen Moqun's office under the pretext of needing signatures on documents.

Chen Moqun introduced Gu Shenyan, his former Huangpu classmate, to Lin Nansheng. When Gu Shenyan humorously suggested Lin Nansheng investigate him first, Chen Moqun dismissed the idea, vouching for Gu Shenyan's loyalty. However, Lin Nansheng noticed that Gu Shenyan's file was absent from the list of suspicious individuals and voiced his concern to Chen Moqun.

He argued that true loyalty should not fear suspicion, and even if Gu Shenyan typically handled outdated information, he could still be a source of leaks through alternative channels. Impressed by Lin Nansheng's reasoning, Chen Moqun approved the investigation into Gu Shenyan, reminding Lin Nansheng never to trust anyone completely. After leaving Chen Moqun's office, Gu Shenyan immediately placed a coded phone call to a bookstore, inquiring about a specific book published by Saoye Publishing House.

The person who answered, Mu, confirmed that "the book you mentioned has been picked up by another gentleman," indicating that the information had already been successfully relayed. Chen Moqun then took Lin Nansheng to tour the station's interrogation rooms and holding cells, where many Communists were detained. Lin Nansheng witnessed a young boy being subjected to torture, a sight that deeply disturbed him, causing him to avert his gaze.

Chen Moqun sternly ordered Lin Nansheng to keep his eyes open, emphasizing that he must become accustomed to such brutality. He dismissed Lin Nansheng’s plea that the captive was "just a child" who might be innocent, stating he was an "enemy first" and might be feigning ignorance. Chen Moqun warned Lin Nansheng that unlike conventional warfare, their adversaries were cunning and could appear as anyone—old people, women, children, or even friends and family.

He concluded by informing Lin Nansheng that his next visit to the interrogation room would involve him directly participating in the questioning. Later, Chen Moqun reiterated that while sensitivity could help uncover truth, soft-heartedness would harden with repeated exposure to the grim realities of their work.

After a heavy rain, Shanghai's temperature dropped, leaving the city under a blanket of clouds. Lin Nansheng, his head covered in light sweat from the recent interrogation, emerged from the room, looking out of place in the somber environment. Chen Moqun, accustomed to such scenes, gave some brief instructions to Wang Shi'an before taking Lin Nansheng to an old Western-style house hidden at an alley entrance, a personal residence he had specifically arranged for Lin Nansheng, unknown to anyone else.

Chen Moqun urged Lin Nansheng to familiarize himself with the surroundings and then questioned him about his thoughts on their work. Lin Nansheng confessed his discomfort, worrying that they might harm innocent people due to insufficient investigation. He found it hard to stomach the thought of fellow countrymen being brutalized, particularly when they, too, might only wish for a better country, despite choosing a different path.

Chen Moqun, however, dismissed Lin Nansheng's concerns as a weakness unfit for a Nationalist intelligence officer. He warned Lin Nansheng to remember his identity, maintain a firm stance, and discard any excess emotion to achieve their objectives. He reminded Lin Nansheng that he was a candidate personally selected and trained by him, and that he must not be disappointed. Lin Nansheng, cherishing this opportunity, reaffirmed his commitment to his duty and vowed never to back down.

Satisfied, Chen Moqun left, while Lin Nansheng stared intently out the window, standing tall, as if seeking to reaffirm his initial convictions in the dawn light, believing in the righteousness of his party. Meanwhile, Gu Shenyan met with A Mu at a teahouse, inquiring about Wang Zhi's transfer and discussing Lin Nansheng's background.

Gu Shenyan revealed that he had studied Lin Nansheng's file, which showed no suspicious ties, suggesting Chen Moqun’s hasty selection of a new confidant was a sign of his extreme frustration over recent intelligence leaks. A Mu confirmed that Wang Zhi had safely left Shanghai, believing he had reached Xinyang by now. Gu Shenyan explained that Chen Moqun had implemented the highest security measures for Wang Zhi's arrest, but his failure to capture him had enraged him.

Gu Shenyan worried that Chen Moqun, cunning and experienced in fighting their organization, would now change his strategy and try to break through their defenses to target the core. He noted that the silence within the Special Agents Department indicated secret operations were underway, making it harder to obtain timely information. Gu Shenyan promised to clear the contact system upon his return to ensure A Mu's safety.

Wang Shi'an had been in lengthy negotiations with Nanjing, and thanks to Director Dai's intervention, Nanjing finally agreed to extradite Wang Zhi to the Shanghai Special Agents Department. Chen Moqun ordered the information to be kept strictly confidential, mandating Wang Zhi's solitary confinement and secrecy from all departments, including Gu Shenyan. That evening, Zhu Yizhen was organizing a group of fellow students at a dance hall to write patriotic propaganda pamphlets condemning the national government's non-resistance policy.

When the police suddenly raided the venue for a spot check, everyone scrambled to evacuate. As Zhu Yizhen exited, she was mugged. Fortunately, Lin Nansheng, who was exploring the area, intervened, snatching her handbag back from the robber. Seeing Lin Nansheng, the robber fled. Zhu Yizhen, more concerned about her scattered manuscripts than the robber, quickly collected the papers, thanked Lin Nansheng briefly, and hurried away.

Lin Nansheng watched her retreating figure, puzzled but choosing to let it go, already feeling the profound impact Shanghai had made on him in just a few days. Later, Section Chief Cao Yangfei from Nanjing's inspection department arrived in Jiading with Wang Zhi. Chen Moqun confirmed the situation via phone and then instructed Wang Shi'an to remain at the office. He took Lin Nansheng with him to the meeting point.

Lin Nansheng and the driver, Old Huang, were each given two submachine guns, and Chen Moqun explicitly ordered the General Affairs Section to record the name of anyone who inquired about the weapons, as they could be potential moles. Gu Shenyan realized the gravity of the situation after Chen Moqun's departure, so he took a bottle of foreign whiskey to visit Wang Shi'an. Wang Shi'an was in a foul mood, venting his frustration by torturing a Communist prisoner.

He felt marginalized by Lin Nansheng's rapid rise in favor, believing his own position as Chen Moqun’s trusted aide had been usurped, leaving him with little more than a nominal deputy station chief title. Gu Shenyan feigned sympathy, leveraging Wang Shi'an's resentment by lamenting how Chen Moqun had seemingly overlooked their shared history at Huangpu Military Academy and their participation in the Northern Expedition.

Gu Shenyan, who actually managed extensive intelligence personnel information in the archives, had deliberately cultivated a reputation for lacking ambition and being content with a relaxed position, using it as a cover for his true identity.

As they drank, Gu Shenyan subtly extracted information from an unsuspecting Wang Shi'an, who openly complained about the cost of housing Nanjing agents and Chen Moqun's eagerness to retrieve "the person he wanted" from Nanjing without involving him in the process, confirming Gu Shenyan's suspicion that Wang Zhi had been captured.

Chen Moqun met Cao Yangfei in the outskirts of the city and took custody of Wang Zhi, immediately arranging for him to be detained on the fourth floor of the Datong Hotel to ensure absolute secrecy. He installed two men at the entrance, guards in an opposite room, and gave strict orders that only he and Lin Nansheng were allowed near Wang Zhi's room.

He then instructed his secretary to tell anyone asking about him that he was on field duty. After his meeting with Wang Shi'an, Gu Shenyan called A Mu, instructing him to meet Ji Zhongyuan at a bookstore to verify the identity of the captured Communist. Moments later, Zhu Yizhen visited Ji Zhongyuan at the library to inform him that the patriotic manuscripts were safe.

Shortly after their conversation, Ji Zhongyuan received a phone call, which was a coded message from A Mu about an "illustrated version of Qing Dynasty" that would sell out quickly. Ji Zhongyuan then excused himself to a colleague, saying he needed to go to the bookstore, and promptly left for the meeting. Back at the hotel, Chen Moqun personally interrogated Wang Zhi, who initially only revealed information about his subordinates, refusing to name his superior.

Lin Nansheng attempted to persuade Wang Zhi by reconstructing the timeline of his escape from Shanghai. He pointed out the wet footprints found at Wang Zhi's residence after the rain and the impossibility of his escape without a tip-off, suggesting that the person who warned him was his superior. Wang Zhi initially insisted he only escaped due to his "sensitivity."

Growing impatient, Chen Moqun resorted to intimidation, threatening to kill Wang Zhi and frame it as an escape attempt, with his family also facing consequences. This broke Wang Zhi's resolve. Pleading for money and safe passage abroad for his family, Wang Zhi confessed that his superior, named A Mu, who operated a bookstore, was the contact person for a spy within the Special Agents Department, codenamed "Mailman."

Based on Wang Zhi's confession, Lin Nansheng quickly accessed A Mu's detailed file from the Shanghai Book Trade Association. Meanwhile, Gu Shenyan feigned illness at the Special Agents Department and, relying on the driver, Old Huang, to take him home, subtly inquired about the location of the pan-fried dumplings Old Huang had bought. This allowed Gu Shenyan to identify the secret hotel where Wang Zhi was being held. Gu Shenyan couldn't directly approach the heavily guarded hotel entrance. He drove past the establishment, observing the numerous agents stationed outside, but his suspicious vehicle was noticed by Lin Nansheng, who was keeping watch.

Agents, alerted by Lin Nansheng, put out their cigarettes, unaware that Gu Shenyan had already identified them. Chen Moqun’s team prepared to surround the Xinyuan Bookstore. Lin Nansheng, noticing a suspicious vehicle following them through his rearview mirror, skillfully evaded it and parked across the street from the bookstore. Chen Moqun then introduced Lin Nansheng to Xu Bin, the deputy commander of the Songhu Garrison Command Reconnaissance Group.

Xu Bin informed them of the initial deployment: one team was guarding the bookstore’s entrances, while another checked the surrounding neighborhoods. Chen Moqun then issued specific orders: the front door guards were to maintain a low profile, the backdoor must be guarded at all times, and all bookstore customers were to be taken to the station for questioning.

Meanwhile, Ji Zhongyuan, the head of the Shanghai Party organization, arrived at the bookstore, having been called by Amu using an emergency contact method. Amu informed him that the "Mailman" had sent news that a comrade had been arrested in Nanjing and was being transferred to Shanghai, which struck them as odd.

Ji Zhongyuan promised to quickly verify if their man was indeed caught in Nanjing and to contact comrades in Xinyang to confirm Wang Zhi’s arrival there, ensuring everything was foolproof. As Ji Zhongyuan left, Xu Bin dispatched men to discreetly follow him, instructing them to find a hidden spot to apprehend him without alarming others. Following Chen Moqun’s instructions, Lin Nansheng entered the bookstore, pretending to be a regular customer. He picked up "Hunter's Notes" and began to read.

Amu, the bookstore manager, engaged him in conversation, asking about his literary preferences and why he liked "Hunter's Notes." Lin Nansheng's fluent and informed responses satisfied Amu, slightly easing his suspicion. Elsewhere, Gu Shenyan deduced Chen Moqun's imminent operation. He called Amu, warning him of the emergency and that Chen Moqun was conducting a secret operation on Fuyou Road. Amu confirmed it was the Xinyuan Bookstore, the city party committee liaison station, and that he was alone.

Gu Shenyan, who was nearby, offered to help Amu escape from the backdoor. However, Amu refused, fearing it would expose Gu Shenyan's identity, and stated it was their last contact, declaring, "Victory to the revolution!" Unable to persuade Amu, Gu Shenyan urged him to escape through the backdoor at 2:42 PM, promising to start his part in three minutes. As Chen Moqun's men prepared to storm the bookstore, Amu, having armed himself with a grenade, emerged from an inner room.

Lin Nansheng tried to stop him, but Amu pulled the pin. With no time to intervene, Lin Nansheng rushed out to tackle Chen Moqun, shielding him just as the grenade exploded behind them. The blast sent everyone to the ground as the bookstore, and Amu along with it, was engulfed in flames. Simultaneously, Gu Shenyan, who had gone to the backdoor with the intention of assisting Amu's escape, had already killed one of the secret agents with a single stab.

However, it was already too late for Amu. Examining the dead agent's body, Chen Moqun noted the precise fatal wound, concluding the killer was professionally trained. Lin Nansheng recounted that Amu had received a phone call just before the explosion, which he believed was a warning to escape. He suggested the mysterious car that had followed them earlier might be connected to an informant.

Lin Nansheng also highlighted that only Chen Moqun, himself, and Old Huang knew Wang Zhi was being held at the Ta Tung Hotel. He further mentioned that Old Huang had driven Gu Shenyan home on sick leave after dropping off the guns at the hotel, and suggested contacting Gu Shenyan for confirmation. This information led Chen Moqun to immediately suspect a "Mailman" within their ranks. He ordered Xu Bin to clean up the scene quickly before the police arrived.

Chen Moqun decided to visit Gu Shenyan to follow up on Old Huang's movements. Gu Shenyan, after quickly changing his car's license plate, entered his apartment from the back door just as Chen Moqun arrived at the front. The apartment building's manager confirmed Gu Shenyan had been home for "a while already." Chen Moqun knocked, and Gu Shenyan, feigning discomfort and wearing his sleepwear, eventually opened the door. Chen Moqun inquired about a bruise on Gu Shenyan's forehead.

Gu Shenyan used the recent operation to explain it, feigning a recounting of a Communist detonating a grenade. He then subtly steered the conversation to express concern about an inside job, drawing parallels to a past information leak in 1934 and highlighting how Amu's receiving a call implied their deployment was known beforehand. Chen Moqun, playing along, agreed that such an insider situation would be "terrible." Unconvinced by Gu Shenyan’s performance and unable to extract useful information, Chen Moqun left.

Meanwhile, Lin Nansheng, stationed outside, noticed the suspicious vehicle with the changed license plate. He reported it to Chen Moqun, who instructed him to have the Transportation Bureau investigate the plate and tow the car. The investigation revealed the license plate was fake, and the owner untraceable, indicating a cautious driver. Chen Moqun reflected that they were "infinitely closing in on the truth but can't find any conclusive evidence."

He reasoned that with Amu, the "Mailman's" direct contact, now dead, the "Mailman" and the Communist Party would have lost contact. This would force the "Mailman" to quickly seek a new contact, presenting an opportunity for them to intercept. Following this, Chen Moqun reviewed personnel files, specifically taking out Gu Shenyan's file and studying his photo, indicating his growing suspicion towards his old classmate.

Chen Moqun also praised Lin Nansheng for his quick reactions at the bookstore, saving his life, and warned him never to underestimate the Communists, describing them as "more stubborn and horrible than you think." Elsewhere, after leaving the bookstore, Ji Zhongyuan noticed he was being tailed but successfully shook them off while riding a tram. He then arranged for people to decipher codes and relayed instructions for the "Mailman" to wait for a new contact.

Gu Shenyan, taking the initiative, placed a classified advertisement in "The Shanghai News" using a coded message: "For bamboo shoots purchase in the countryside, I have no contact." He then went to a rooftop opposite the Ta Tung Hotel and used a telescope to scan the rooms, attempting to locate where Wang Zhi was being held. However, Lin Nansheng, also vigilant, spotted movement on the opposite building. Gu Shenyan narrowly avoided detection by hiding along the rooftop's edge.

Chen Moqun, after Lin Nansheng confirmed the rooftop was clear, began his interrogation of Wang Zhi. He pressed Wang Zhi, reminding him that Amu, the "Mailman's" only contact, was dead, and that Wang Zhi's value now depended on providing new information. He warned Wang Zhi that without further cooperation, he would lose protection and face repercussions from the Communist Party. Under this severe pressure, Wang Zhi eventually divulged information about Cafe Le Cancoll on Xiafei Road.

He explained that he had stumbled upon it by chance, seeing Amu inside acting cautiously, which suggested it was a rendezvous point. Wang Zhi assured Chen Moqun that Amu was unaware he had been seen there. Lin Nansheng evaluated the cafe, noting its strategic location at an intersection with window seats offering good views to spot anyone tailing them.

Chen Moqun immediately contacted Operation Squad Captain Hu Dao Yi, assigning him and Lin Nansheng the task of monitoring Cafe Le Cancoll. He instructed them to photograph every visitor and stressed the highly classified nature of the operation, requiring all participants to be thoroughly screened. Lin Nansheng, however, expressed concern that with the cafe's many customers, their deployment would be like "finding a needle in a haystack."

Chen Moqun, finding constant surveillance at Le Cancoll Cafe ineffective due to the high volume of people, decided to apply pressure to "Mailman" by exposing Wang Zhi. He brought Wang Zhi to the Secret Service headquarters, asking him to identify any familiar faces among the staff. Wang Zhi quickly grasped he was being used as bait to provoke an assassination attempt by "Mailman" or an accomplice.

Chen Moqun confirmed his intention, stating that Wang Zhi's face was now a valuable asset to force "Mailman" into action, and reaffirmed his commitment to their agreement once "Mailman" was caught. Lin Nansheng then summoned Gu Shenyan to Chen Moqun's office. While discussing administrative matters, Gu Shenyan observed Wang Zhi. After Gu Shenyan departed, Wang Zhi confronted Chen Moqun, acknowledging that he was a pawn meant to be seen by Gu Shenyan, whom Chen Moqun suspected as "Mailman."

Wang Zhi remarked that even if Gu Shenyan were a Communist, his long tenure had made him indistinguishable. Chen Moqun, emphasizing the elusive nature of "Mailman," urged Wang Zhi to meticulously recall all details about him, subtly highlighting the critical danger Wang Zhi faced. Following this, Lin Nansheng reported to Chen Moqun, noting that Gu Shenyan, despite his outward indifference, seemed to be deliberately avoiding something, which intensified their suspicions.

Chen Moqun immediately ordered heightened security around the Ta Tung Hotel, where Wang Zhi was being held. Xu Bin and his elite team were deployed, strategically placing agents on the ground floor and in four rooms on the fourth floor to ensure Wang Zhi's absolute safety. Lin Nansheng was assigned to Le Cancoll Cafe during the day and the Ta Tung Hotel at night. Meanwhile, Ji Zhongyuan began efforts to re-establish communication with "Mailman."

He entrusted Zhu Yizhen from Shenjiang University with an urgent mission: to meet an important contact at 3 p. m. the following day at Le Cancoll Cafe on Xiafei Road. She was to carry the book "Lucien Leuwen" and respond to the query "Have you read The Red and the Black?" with "Yes, but I prefer Lucien Leuwen."

Gu Shenyan, acutely aware of the heightened scrutiny on him, spent the night wrestling with the decision of whether to attend the meeting. The next morning, Lin Nansheng set up surveillance across from Le Cancoll Cafe, meticulously photographing every person entering and exiting. He soon recognized Zhu Yizhen among the patrons. Gu Shenyan arrived at the cafe, but, discerning the presence of surveillance agents, he decided against entering directly.

Instead, he hired a rickshaw to pass by, observing Zhu Yizhen from a safe distance. As the afternoon wore on, Zhu Yizhen waited in vain for her contact. As she prepared to leave, a young beggar approached her, delivering a message from Gu Shenyan: the meeting location was changed to under the Zhejiang Road Bridge at 3 p. m. the next day.

Zhu Yizhen immediately informed Ji Zhongyuan, concluding that Gu Shenyan’s indirect message indicated he had sensed danger or encountered trouble near the cafe. Ji Zhongyuan instructed her to avoid Le Cancoll and to lie low for a while, promising to send a new signal for any future tasks. Later, Ji Zhongyuan and Gu Shenyan met covertly under the Zhejiang Road Bridge at 3 p. m.

After verifying their identities using a newspaper message about "Missing Person - Manager Li Mu Qing," Ji Zhongyuan introduced himself as "Fisherman," the new liaison, succeeding A Mu. He recounted A Mu’s sacrifice to protect him and informed Gu Shenyan of Wang Zhi’s defection, the arrest of his network, and his failure to reach Xinyang, which confirmed the organization's belief in his betrayal.

Gu Shenyan affirmed that Wang Zhi was the man Chen Moqun had displayed at the headquarters, corroborating their assessment. He explained Chen Moqun’s maneuver was a direct test of his loyalty, noting that while suspicion was inevitable, concrete evidence was still lacking. They resolved that Wang Zhi, having worked for them for years and now a traitor, must be eliminated swiftly.

Gu Shenyan then provided critical intelligence: Wang Zhi was confined to the innermost room on the fourth floor of the heavily guarded Ta Tung Hotel. Sniper assassination was deemed impractical due to the distance and the numerous, well-armed guards, some believed to carry submachine guns. Ji Zhongyuan immediately began planning the assassination.

He called the Ta Tung Hotel, initially requesting a high-floor room for observation, and eventually reserved room 315 on the third floor, which would become available at 5 p. m. He then dispatched Fu An, disguised as a food delivery person for room 315. Fu An deliberately ascended to the fourth floor, ostensibly by pressing the wrong elevator button, to observe the security setup.

When questioned, he maintained his cover, and his identity was verified by a phone call to the restaurant, securing his release. Fu An reported back, detailing four or five guards positioned at the lobby, the fourth-floor stairwell, the elevator, and the hallway, all armed with handguns, indicating strict but surmountable security. Later that night, Lin Nansheng began his shift at the Ta Tung Hotel. He noted the elevator area was unguarded.

Xu Bin, confident in his deployment, assured Lin Nansheng that their men, including the bellboys, were strategically placed, some hidden in rooms, to allow attackers to enter before trapping them. Lin Nansheng, however, remained wary, believing that merely reacting to gunshots would be too late. Close to midnight, a police car arrived.

A frantic middle-aged man, identifying himself as an assistant manager from Huanya Bank, entered the hotel accompanied by two Chinese detectives, Li Ah Shui (serial number 372) and Ding Fu Sheng (serial number 258). The man loudly demanded to search for his wife, Chen Dan Lu, accusing her of infidelity. The hotel manager hesitated, caught between hotel policy and the demands of the police in the French Concession.

Lin Nansheng, sensing a deeper game, intervened, inspecting the detectives' IDs and discreetly recording their names and serial numbers. As the police and the agitated man proceeded upstairs, Lin Nansheng used his phone to call the Garrison Command. He was informed that Li Ah Shui and Ding Fu Sheng were indeed legitimate police officers, but both had been reported missing for the night.

Simultaneously, as they reached the second floor in the elevator, "Ding Fu Sheng" feigned a sudden stomach ailment and excused himself to the restroom, while the "bank manager" created a loud diversion by aggressively banging on guest room doors, providing cover for his team to tamper with a window for an inside operation.

A man on the second floor of the hotel loudly knocked on a room door and then barged in without the owner's permission, causing a major disturbance. Amidst the chaos, Fukuan discreetly entered the building through the second-floor toilet, walked down the corridor, and hid in the unoccupied Room 213 after picking its lock. Lin Nansheng remained vigilant, patrolling every checkpoint, but failed to notice Fukuan. His attention was instead drawn to a gunshot.

Although the action squad had agents guarding the fourth-floor fire exit, one of the "Chinese detectives" intentionally discharged his weapon, prompting all the guards to rush to assist downstairs. Lin Nansheng, suspicious of their identity, called the Garrison Command during the incident, who confirmed that two detectives named Li Ashui and Ding Fusheng were on duty but had been out of reach all night. He was also unable to confirm if they were specifically assigned to the Ta Tung Hotel.

With a clear, windless night providing ideal conditions for light and visibility, Fukuan swiftly climbed the fire escape to the rooftop. He then rappelled down to the fourth-floor window of Wang Zhi's room, aimed carefully, and killed both Wang Zhi and another agent inside, using a silencer. The loud noise from the fake detectives' car exhaust below, created by them fumbling with keys and intentionally revving the engine, masked the gunshots.

Lin Nansheng, still unable to conclusively identify the detectives, watched them leave. He observed one of them deliberately taking time to find car keys, subtly challenging him. After they finally drove off with the noisy exhaust, Lin Nansheng called the Garrison Command again but received no further information. Wang Zhi died from his injuries despite emergency treatment. Chen Moqun was deeply disappointed upon hearing the news.

Lin Nansheng later submitted an analysis report, detailing the Communist Party's assassination method and admitting his own negligence. Chen Moqun acknowledged Lin Nansheng's keen insight but pointed out that such a precise analysis highlighted the severe flaws in their security arrangements. He sternly reminded Lin Nansheng that Shanghai operations were vastly different from training; here, a single mistake could cost one's life. He warned Lin Nansheng to be constantly alert, or he might be the next one bleeding out.

Lin Nansheng pleaded for another chance. Chen Moqun then convened an internal meeting, announcing that Wang Zhi was fortunate to have survived and was recovering in the hospital. He claimed Wang Zhi had revealed the existence of a long-term Communist mole known as "the Mailman," who had been active since 1934 and was responsible for a significant information leak that year. Chen Moqun stated that Wang Zhi's assassination proved the Mailman's deep infiltration.

He proposed a comprehensive station-wide investigation to uncover the mole, suggesting they start with Gu Shenyan's archives and screen everyone's personal history and social connections. Gu Shenyan immediately expressed full cooperation, while others at the meeting cautiously tried to clear their names. Deputy Chief Wang Shi'an was skeptical, believing the "Mailman" story was merely a tactic to shift blame. After the meeting, Chen Moqun invited Gu Shenyan to his office for tea.

He used Lin Nansheng's "negligence of duty" in Wang Zhi's assassination as an excuse to transfer him to the archives, effectively placing him under Gu Shenyan's supervision as a form of "repentance." Gu Shenyan understood Chen Moqun's true intentions but feigned hesitation, suggesting that this transfer would only make him appear suspicious. Chen Moqun insisted on Lin Nansheng's capabilities and expressed his trust in Gu Shenyan, who reluctantly accepted the assignment. The same afternoon, Lin Nansheng reported to the archives.

Gu Shenyan greeted him warmly, empathized with his family background, and assigned him to organize files at a desk within his own office, making sure to keep Lin Nansheng close by. Gu Shenyan encouraged Lin Nansheng to relax and informally call him "Old Gu" when they were alone.

Meanwhile, Chen Moqun instructed Xu Bin to withdraw surveillance from Cafe Le Cancoll, believing that since Wang Zhi's location was compromised, the "Mailman" must have already contacted the Communist Party and established new meeting points. Lin Nansheng felt a pang of disappointment as the photos he had diligently developed from the cafe were now rendered useless. Lin Nansheng diligently worked in the archives, tidying up and assisting Gu Shenyan, quickly earning his favor.

The relaxed atmosphere and Gu Shenyan's amiable demeanor made Lin Nansheng wonder if his superior was truly a carefree individual or a cunning mastermind. Deputy Chief Wang Shi'an visited Gu Shenyan, complaining about the extensive internal investigation and suggesting that Gu Shenyan’s proposal at the meeting had made him a prime suspect. Gu Shenyan calmly dismissed his concerns, reiterating that the investigation was standard procedure and Lin Nansheng's transfer was due to a mistake, not as a spy.

Lin Nansheng meticulously documented Gu Shenyan's movements, contacts, and documents in a work notebook for Chen Moqun. Chen Moqun reviewed the notes and emphasized that Lin Nansheng needed to use his intuition to find abnormalities hidden within seemingly trivial details. Chen Moqun also informed Lin Nansheng that he had other agents monitoring Gu Shenyan's movements outside the office.

Gu Shenyan successfully eluded surveillance by meeting Ji Zhongyuan at a new, strategically chosen contact point: a barbershop situated behind the Fu Lai Restaurant, with Communist agents providing cover at both locations. Gu Shenyan informed Ji Zhongyuan about Chen Moqun’s claim that Wang Zhi was still alive. Ji Zhongyuan found this difficult to believe, as his comrade had confirmed shooting Wang Zhi in the face.

Gu Shenyan asked Ji Zhongyuan to verify Wang Zhi's actual condition by investigating the three nearby hospitals (Ren Ji, Hua Mei, and De Qing) and to plan their next steps accordingly. Ji Zhongyuan also pointed out that Chen Moqun assigning Lin Nansheng to Gu Shenyan’s department was a clear sign of suspicion.

After a sleepless night poring over photographs, Lin Nansheng finally discovered a crucial detail: the distinctive custom-made leather shoes worn by a passenger in a rickshaw outside the coffee shop, identifiable only to agents within the Secret Service. Using this seemingly minor clue, he traced the rickshaw driver, who was often accompanied by a young beggar. This beggar, in turn, had interacted with Zhu Yizhen.

By meticulously sifting through dozens of photos, Lin Nansheng pieced together Zhu Yizhen's movements, concluding that she was the intended contact for "The Mailman" on that day. To confirm his suspicions, Lin Nansheng sought out the beggar and offered him food. The beggar recalled being asked to deliver a message to Zhu Yizhen, stating it was "3 p. m. in the afternoon, under Zhejiang Road Bridge," but couldn't remember the appearance of the man who gave him the message.

Lin Nansheng reported his findings to Chen Moqun, then drove him to Shenjiang University where they observed Zhu Yizhen leaving. Lin Nansheng identified her as a fourth-year student and the daughter of Zhu Xiaoxian, a renowned financier. Recognizing her powerful background, Chen Moqun cautioned against rash action, instructing Lin Nansheng to meticulously investigate her routine without alerting her. Meanwhile, Ji Zhongyuan visited several hospitals near Da Tong Hotel, searching for Wang Zhi.

At Ren Ji Hospital, he noticed Secret Service agents guarding a ward and doctors and nurses attending to a patient, leading him to believe Wang Zhi was held there. His suspicious demeanor also caught the attention of Xu Bin, who recognized him from a previous encounter. Chen Moqun, whose surveillance on Gu Shenyan had been detected, decided to stop following him. Instead, he summoned Gu Shenyan and Wang Shi'an, instructing Gu Shenyan to give Wang Zhi's file to Wang Shi'an.

Chen Moqun announced that Wang Zhi had recovered consciousness and was to be transferred to Nanjing at 3 p. m. the following day, with Wang Shi'an overseeing the operation. Gu Shenyan, believing the news, urgently informed Ji Zhongyuan. Recognizing this as their only opportunity, they swiftly planned to eliminate Wang Zhi before the transfer. Ji Zhongyuan returned to Ren Ji Hospital, coordinating with a comrade, Fu An, to assess Wang Zhi's condition and the number of guards.

However, Xu Bin's heightened vigilance made it impossible to get close. The next day, as Ji Zhongyuan's team prepared their ambush around the hospital, Chen Moqun engaged Gu Shenyan in a game of chess in his office, using it as a deliberate delaying tactic. During their game, Chen Moqun subtly revealed the true nature of his plan, explaining that Wang Zhi had actually died days ago.

The entire hospital setup, with a fake patient and a staged transfer to Nanjing, was an elaborate deception to lure the Communists into a trap. Observing the staged transfer from a distance, Ji Zhongyuan noticed that the man on the stretcher had only minor abrasions on his ankles, not the deep, distinctive scars expected from years of wearing shackles. Realizing the deception, he immediately ordered his comrades to evacuate, confirming that the person was not Wang Zhi.

Simultaneously, Chen Moqun received a phone call from Xu Bin, reporting no Communist activity at the hospital, indicating his trap had failed to ensnare anyone. Unaware of the full extent of Chen Moqun's deception, Wang Shi'an proceeded with the transfer. On the way to Nanjing, he pulled over to relieve himself, only to witness the supposed unconscious "Wang Zhi," who was wearing an oxygen mask, also getting out of the car to relieve himself.

Furious at being made a fool, Wang Shi'an immediately took the wheel and drove back to the Shanghai station. Back in his office, Wang Shi'an drank in anger, feeling humiliated by Chen Moqun's scheme. Gu Shenyan approached him, feigning ignorance, and inquired about the failed transfer. He then tried to calm Wang Shi'an, explaining that Chen Moqun's actions were not personal but a strategic move to expose "The Mailman," and advised against further conflict.

Later, Gu Shenyan met with Ji Zhongyuan, apologizing for his prior impulsiveness regarding Wang Zhi, which almost put their organization at risk. Ji Zhongyuan understood his predicament and reassured him, agreeing that they should avoid using the same liaison points too frequently to prevent Chen Moqun from identifying patterns. He also decided to temporarily suspend radio communications, which were still being monitored, and would relay this to their superiors. Subsequently, Wang Shi'an visited Chen Moqun, accepting the situation.

He acknowledged understanding the strategic reasons behind concealing Wang Zhi's death and the failed lure. Taking responsibility, he volunteered to write the report to Nanjing himself, to address the fallout from the operation. In the following days, Lin Nansheng, disguised as a student, infiltrated Shenjiang University to closely monitor Zhu Yizhen. His observations revealed a consistent daily routine: she would commute from home to school, attend classes, and frequently visit the library. While her interactions with classmates appeared normal and she made no suspicious contacts, her regular visits to the school library remained the sole point of interest for Lin Nansheng.

Having observed Zhu Yizhen in the library's reading room for several days, Lin Nansheng found no significant breakthrough. He noted that Zhu Yizhen's borrowed books covered an unusually wide range of subjects, and she always appeared very cautious when selecting them. This led him to suspect that she might be using the books to exchange information with the Communist Party.

However, the library was an open space, frequented by many students, teachers, and staff, making it impossible to narrow down a specific suspect from this lead. Chen Moqun praised Lin Nansheng's detailed observations, emphasizing that Zhu Yizhen was a vital clue. He tasked Lin Nansheng with getting close to her and manipulating her to uncover the Mailman's contact person, all while ensuring the Mailman remained unaware.

Lin Nansheng was instructed to go undercover as an assistant professor named "Xu Liwen" at Shenjiang University. To facilitate this, Lin Nansheng faked his mother's severe illness and requested a temporary leave from Gu Shenyan. Though Gu Shenyan seemed to doubt the sincerity of Lin Nansheng’s excuse, he expressed concern, even offering to arrange transport for Lin Nansheng’s mother to Shanghai for better medical care. Lin Nansheng politely declined, explaining that travel might worsen his elderly mother's condition.

Gu Shenyan then gave him some money as a supplement, which Lin Nansheng initially refused but accepted after Gu Shenyan insisted, telling him not to stand on ceremony and to call if he needed anything else. Later that afternoon, Chen Moqun arranged a meeting with Lin Nansheng at a dance hall. Before Chen Moqun arrived, he sent a dancer, Lan Xinjie, to test Lin Nansheng’s composure and suitability for the mission.

Lan Xinjie approached Lin Nansheng, who maintained a polite but awkward distance, stating he was waiting for a friend. When a waiter informed him that Chen Moqun would be late, Lan Xinjie sat at his table, ordered dinner for both, and tried to engage him in conversation. She observed his loneliness and remarked that he was different from others in the establishment, suggesting he would only truly love Shanghai if someone he cared about was there.

When she invited him to dance, he politely declined, claiming he didn't know how. Chen Moqun then made his entrance. Lan Xinjie reported to Chen Moqun that Lin Nansheng was a sincere man with pure, clean eyes, unlike anyone she had met in a long time, but lacked experience with women. Chen Moqun found this "even better" for their purposes and dismissed her.

He then told Lin Nansheng that Lan Xinjie was intelligent because she understood how to "cut off her feelings" to prevent them from clouding her judgment. He advised Lin Nansheng to understand Shanghai's social culture, as someone of Zhu Yizhen's identity might frequent such places. Lin Nansheng affirmed his understanding, and Chen Moqun instructed him to find an undercover identity that suited his style. After completing all necessary preparations, Lin Nansheng officially began his undercover role at Shenjiang University.

He watched Zhu Yizhen display her spirited nature on the basketball court, even stepping in as a referee when the original one was injured. Later, in class, he observed her brilliantly reciting a poem from "Leaves of Grass." These initial impressions left him deeply captivated. After class, Lin Nansheng introduced himself as Xu Liwen, praising her recitation and analysis of the poem, and asked to borrow her notebook to learn more.

Zhu Yizhen, however, did not recognize him from a past encounter where he had helped her with a bag snatching incident. She remained polite but wary, limiting their interaction, and Lin Nansheng couldn't get a chance for further conversation. Zhu Yizhen proceeded to the school library, where a notice for "Madame Bovary" served as a pre-arranged signal. Following the instructions, she then headed to Zhang's Tailor Shop. Unbeknownst to her, Lin Nansheng and Xu Bin were tailing her.

Lin Nansheng waited in a car across the street, while Xu Bin informed him that Zhang's was a renowned tailor shop in Shanghai, popular among the city's wealthy ladies and young women for its master tailor. This meant Zhu Yizhen's presence there was entirely normal and didn't immediately raise suspicion. Inside the shop, a shop assistant named Fu An was seen sweeping the entrance, acting as a lookout.

Ji Zhongyuan met Zhu Yizhen in a changing room, where he explained the recent security concerns. He informed her that the library was no longer a safe meeting point and that Zhang's Tailor Shop would serve as a new contact hub. Future meetings would be arranged by instructing her to come to the shop to try on new dresses. If she needed to contact the organization, she was to wear a specific hair clip and go to the library.

Ji Zhongyuan also explained the urgent need to purchase an expensive, high-quality radio to receive orders from their superiors, a task suited to Zhu Yizhen's affluent background. She was to be responsible for transcribing these orders and then passing them to him through other channels. He emphasized the cruelty of war and the constant need for alertness and caution, warning her to observe those around her and report any suspicious activity immediately.

Meanwhile, Gu Shenyan, still suspicious about Lin Nansheng's sudden leave, contacted Ji Zhongyuan by phone. He expressed his belief that Chen Moqun, known for his paranoia, would not simply let Lin Nansheng return home, especially after the failure of the Wang Zhi operation. Gu Shenyan asked Ji Zhongyuan to send someone to Lin Nansheng’s hometown address to verify his presence. He also cautioned Ji Zhongyuan to remain vigilant, particularly regarding the female comrade they had previously discussed.

The next day, Lin Nansheng returned Zhu Yizhen's notebook and attempted to forge a deeper connection by mentioning their past encounter outside Lan Xin Theater, where he had intervened during a bag theft. Zhu Yizhen finally remembered him but remained highly alert, quickly excusing herself. Her suspicions were further piqued, leading her to discreetly inquire about "Xu Liwen" at the Chinese Language Department, only to find no record of such a tutor.

Upon learning of Zhu Yizhen's inquiries, Chen Moqun understood her heightened vigilance. He provided Lin Nansheng with a comprehensive file containing Zhu Yizhen's family background, educational history, friends, and even her favorite movies and books, instructing him to use this information to find common ground. Chen Moqun emphasized that to truly gain Zhu Yizhen's trust, Lin Nansheng needed to establish a convincing social circle for his "Xu Liwen" identity, making it feel real rather than just a cover.

Shortly after, the radio Zhu Yizhen had ordered arrived at her home. She insisted on carrying the heavy package herself, refusing her maid, Aunt Zhang's, offer to help, and quickly took it to her room. She later modified the radio with a screwdriver to ensure it could receive directives, preparing to fulfill her organization's task of acquiring intelligence for the Shanghai underground party. She also made an excuse to Aunt Zhang about a college prom that Sunday afternoon, stating she wouldn't be home for lunch, presumably to create opportunities for her clandestine activities.

Chen Moqun expressed concerns about Lin Nansheng's performance, noting his cautiousness and coherence but also his tendency to overthink and be indecisive. He instructed Hu Daoyi to keep a close watch on Lin Nansheng and report any developments immediately, especially regarding the plan to infiltrate the Communist Party. Meanwhile, Zhu Yizhen was delighted to attend a lecture by Professor Shen Yuchang on French literature at Shenjiang University.

To her surprise, Lin Nansheng, using his alias Xu Liwen, the new teaching assistant in the Department of Chinese Studies, was the host. This unexpected encounter significantly lowered her guard towards him. Noticing Zhu Yizhen's shift in attitude and anticipating the university ball, Lin Nansheng decided to seek out Lan Xinjie to learn how to dance.

Lan Xinjie, insightful about matters of the heart, advised Lin Nansheng not to focus on mastering dance steps but rather on being his authentic self. She suggested that leaving an unforgettable impression was key to winning someone's affection. Lan Xinjie found Lin Nansheng's uncorrupted sincerity admirable and predicted that in this very city, he might find someone he truly cares about. Lin Nansheng felt a mix of understanding and apprehension about this advice.

On the day of the ball, Zhu Yizhen helped her friend Hu Xiufen connect with her boyfriend before discussing the specifics of an upcoming protest march with her classmates. When Lin Nansheng arrived, he sought opportunities to approach Zhu Yizhen. Their initial conversation was awkward, but as others began to dance, they found common ground.

Zhu Yizhen revealed her disinterest in dancing, explaining that in such settings, women were often passive, chosen and watched, which she found unfair and indicative of a hidden social inequality. Lin Nansheng resonated with her sentiments, expressing his support for women's freedom and independence. This intellectual connection deepened their bond, leading them to spontaneously recite lines from Walt Whitman's "Leaves of Grass" in unison, including "One’s-Self I sing, a simple separate person. . .

The Female equally with the Male I sing." Moved by their shared understanding, Zhu Yizhen enthusiastically invited Lin Nansheng to dance. In the following days, while preparing for the demonstration, Zhu Yizhen was surprised and pleased to see Lin Nansheng among the participants. As the students meticulously prepared propaganda materials, including comics for the illiterate, the police suddenly conducted a raid. Lin Nansheng quickly pulled Zhu Yizhen away through a back exit, successfully helping her evade capture.

Grateful for his assistance, Zhu Yizhen offered to help Lin Nansheng find a rare edition of "Leaves of Grass." Unbeknownst to them, moments after their escape, Hu Daoyi bribed the police, confirming that the raid was a premeditated setup. Despite his success in gaining Zhu Yizhen's trust, Lin Nansheng struggled with his conscience, feeling uneasy about manipulating her emotions for his mission.

He voiced his moral conflict to Chen Moqun, stating he "can't do it" and that "it's immoral" to play with someone's feelings. Chen Moqun sternly reminded him of his duty as a special agent, emphasizing that Zhu Yizhen was not just a leftist but a Communist, an "enemy" who would "torture" him if his identity were exposed. He ordered Lin Nansheng to shed his emotions and remember the oath he took.

Later, Zhu Yizhen, wearing a hairpin as a signal for a meeting, went to the library. There, she was unexpectedly met by Hu Xiufen, who playfully removed the hairpin, nearly causing Zhu Yizhen to reveal her true intentions. Zhu Yizhen quickly recovered, claiming she bought the hairpin from a roadside stall, but Lin Nansheng, who was present, noticed her momentary unease.

The next day, Zhu Yizhen received a phone call from "Zhang's Clothing" and, following a prearranged code, went to pick up a customized qipao, which contained a hidden note from Ji Zhongyuan. Chen Moqun, who had bugged Zhu Yizhen's phone, was aware of the call but chose not to act, prioritizing Lin Nansheng's mission to gain her trust over immediately apprehending any contacts at the tailor shop.

Zhu Yizhen took her clothes to the Grand Theatre, where she met Ji Zhongyuan during a movie screening of "The Desert Island." She reported on the march preparations, the enthusiasm of students and patriotic teachers, and expressed concerns about student safety during potential police suppression. She also informed Ji Zhongyuan about Xu Liwen (Lin Nansheng), detailing his active involvement in student activities and suggesting that the organization investigate him for possible recruitment.

Ji Zhongyuan agreed to the investigation and received the decrypted intelligence from Zhu Yizhen. To further solidify Lin Nansheng's heroic image and Zhu Yizhen's affection, Chen Moqun orchestrated a violent suppression of a student march. He instructed his men to commence the operation once the student formation became uncontrollable. During the chaos, Lin Nansheng bravely shielded Zhu Yizhen from the police batons, taking numerous blows until he collapsed into unconsciousness. He was rushed to the hospital.

Zhu Yizhen was distraught and filled with remorse, as the doctors reported Lin Nansheng's severe injuries and uncertain prognosis, warning of potential brain damage if he didn't awaken from his coma. Hu Daoyi expressed concern for Lin Nansheng's survival, but Chen Moqun, holding a newspaper, remained indifferent, coldly remarking that life and death are predestined for special agents.

Meanwhile, Gu Shenyan learned that the Secret Service's Operation Squad had been involved in suppressing the student protest, which struck him as unusual since such actions were typically handled by the police. Growing suspicious, he met with Ji Zhongyuan at a noodle shop, confirming that Lin Nansheng was not in his hometown as he had claimed for his leave. This further convinced Gu Shenyan that Chen Moqun was secretly plotting something.

Ji Zhongyuan also expressed concern about the Secret Service's involvement and promised increased caution for the organization's safety. Back at the hospital, Zhu Yizhen, overwhelmed with guilt, stayed by Lin Nansheng's bedside, sending away the concerned maids who had brought supplies. As she worriedly watched over him, Lin Nansheng slowly regained consciousness. The doctor confirmed his condition was weak but stable, and with rest, he would recover.

Out of gratitude for Lin Nansheng saving her, Zhu Yizhen brought him back to her family residence for recovery, intending to personally oversee his care. In the Guang Ci Hospital, Zhu Yizhen diligently tended to Lin Nansheng, who was using the alias Xu Liwen. He expressed his gratitude and felt apologetic for the trouble. Zhu Yizhen reassured him that his recovery was the top priority.

When he suggested he could return to his own home, she adamantly insisted he was in no condition to care for himself, given his fractured ankle and sprained waist. She even threatened to go to his house daily to look after him if he left, leaving him no choice but to accept her arrangement.

Meanwhile, Ji Zhongyuan asked a student, Hu Xiufen, about Zhu Yizhen's whereabouts, learning she was caring for Xu Liwen in the hospital because he had been injured protecting her during a student demonstration. Although Xu Liwen's student profile at Shenjiang University appeared to be in order, Ji Zhongyuan remained suspicious. He immediately dispatched a comrade to Changsha, Hunan, to investigate Xu Liwen's records at his graduating institution, the Hunan Education Academy, and to bring back solid proof of his identity.

At the Zhu residence, Zhu Yizhen and the household staff meticulously arranged Lin Nansheng's new room with fresh bedding and clothes. Observing his discomfort, Zhu Yizhen discreetly instructed the servants not to be overly enthusiastic, sensing that their excessive attention made him uneasy. Lin Nansheng, feeling like a burden, apologized for the trouble he was causing. Later, Zhu Yizhen personally brought him a light dinner, which he gratefully accepted.

Upon his return home, Zhu Yizhen's father, Zhu Xiaoxian, noticed the special meal for a patient and discovered that his daughter had brought a stranger into their home. He went to Lin Nansheng's room, inquiring about his name, Xu Liwen, and expressed his deep gratitude for saving Zhu Yizhen. However, he quickly transitioned to suggesting Lin Nansheng leave their house, offering to repay his kindness in other ways.

Zhu Yizhen vehemently protested, insisting on her responsibility to care for the man who was injured because of her. Zhu Xiaoxian firmly stated that it was unsuitable for Lin Nansheng to remain in their home. Retreating to her room, Zhu Yizhen confronted her father, accusing him of being willful for wanting to abandon Mr. Xu. She threatened to move out with Lin Nansheng if he insisted on sending him away.

Faced with her unwavering defiance, Zhu Xiaoxian reluctantly allowed Lin Nansheng to stay. Lin Nansheng later apologized to Zhu Yizhen for causing a conflict with her father, but Zhu Yizhen reassured him, understanding her father's struggle between wanting her to be independent and still seeing her as his little girl. In Hunan, Mr. Zhao, the comrade dispatched by Ji Zhongyuan, successfully located Xu Liwen's graduation records from the Chinese Language Department at Hunan Education Academy.

The file's details, including a photograph, matched Lin Nansheng's cover story. Mr. Zhao photographed the documents and sent the confirmation back to the Shanghai party organization. As Zhu Yizhen continued to care for Lin Nansheng, their emotional connection deepened. Secret agents, including Hu Daoyi, continued to monitor their every move, with Hu regularly photographing them for Chen Moqun.

One evening, Lin Nansheng returned a book, "The Rout," to Zhu Yizhen, who was listening to a coded radio broadcast in her room. They discussed the book, which detailed the struggles of guerrilla fighters. Lin Nansheng found it deeply moving and exciting, expressing a desire to awaken other people and unite to drive away their enemies.

Zhu Yizhen resonated with his sentiments, noting the widespread positive response to their recent student demonstration and the ongoing boycott of Japanese goods by citizens and workers. She firmly believed that collective action would ultimately lead to victory and freedom for Shanghai. Meanwhile, Gu Shenyan observed Hu Daoyi rushing to Chen Moqun's office, indicating an urgent task.

Hu Daoyi reported the news from Hunan confirming that someone had investigated Xu Liwen's background and presented the photographs of Lin Nansheng and Zhu Yizhen. Chen Moqun was highly satisfied, viewing this as definitive proof that Lin Nansheng had successfully infiltrated the enemy's inner circle and gained Zhu Yizhen's trust.

To ensure Lin Nansheng's deep cover appeared flawless, Chen Moqun ordered Hu Daoyi to remove all surveillance around him, wanting him to be perceived as completely independent and above suspicion by the Communists. Chen Moqun also showed Hu Daoyi pictures of Japanese special agents masquerading as businessmen in Shanghai, identifying them as critical enemies. Over the next few days, Lin Nansheng grew more accustomed to the Zhu household.

One day, while looking at old family photographs, Zhu Yizhen shared stories about her father's penchant for taking candid pictures of her and spoke of her late mother, a piano player. Lin Nansheng, in turn, recounted memories of his peaceful childhood in a small, quiet village and explained his decision to come to Shanghai. He spoke of the looming Japanese threat and the Mukden Incident, revealing his patriotic desire to move beyond empty promises and fight on the frontline.

He admitted feeling perplexed by the students' powerlessness against the military but affirmed his conviction that someone must always stand up, regardless of the daunting odds or the heavy cost. He carefully avoided revealing his specific affiliation. Zhu Xiaoxian, observing the deepening connection between his daughter and Lin Nansheng, grew increasingly uneasy.

He called Zhu Yizhen for a private conversation, expressing his strong dislike for Xu Liwen and his suspicion that the man's intentions were not as straightforward as they appeared. He directly asked Zhu Yizhen if she liked him and if Xu Liwen had approached her with an ulterior motive. Zhu Yizhen, after a moment of hesitation, confessed her feelings.

She explained that Lin Nansheng was the first person who treated her as an equal, respecting her thoughts and opinions without seeing her merely as a rich man's daughter needing constant care. She valued that she didn't need to depend on anyone when she was with him, and that they genuinely cared for each other as equals, maintaining their independent personalities.

Unconvinced, Zhu Xiaoxian pressed further, asking if Lin Nansheng was a Communist, aware of their shared readings and participation in the demonstration. Zhu Yizhen denied it but defended the Communist cause. Zhu Xiaoxian, frustrated by what he perceived as her naivety, warned her that the world was far more complex and dangerous than she imagined, unlike the narratives in her books.

Zhu Yizhen countered that she would take good care of herself, strive to understand the world, and protect as many people as she could. Zhu Xiaoxian then implored her not to get involved in dangerous political activities, explaining that he had tirelessly built his wealth to provide her a stable foundation for a secure future. Zhu Yizhen replied that a solid foundation was meaningless if the country itself was lost.

Realizing the gravity of the situation and the escalating threat of war, Zhu Xiaoxian made a drastic decision: he would cease all his business operations in Shanghai and move the family to Hong Kong after Zhu Yizhen's graduation, solely to ensure her safety from political dangers. The next morning, Lin Nansheng came downstairs for breakfast, learning that Zhu Xiaoxian had already gone to work and Zhu Yizhen was heading to the library to meet Hu Xiufen for exam preparation.

As Zhu Yizhen left, Lin Nansheng discreetly observed the hairpin she was wearing, identifying it as a signal. Seizing the opportunity of being alone, he went to the study and placed a call to Chen Moqun. He began to convey urgent information but was abruptly interrupted by Zhu Xiaoxian's sudden appearance in the study. Lin Nansheng quickly changed his tone, pretending to discuss school affairs with a colleague.

Chen Moqun, understanding Lin Nansheng's predicament over the phone, quickly improvised a backup plan. Zhu Xiaoxian, his suspicions aroused, demanded the telephone number Lin Nansheng had just dialed. When Zhu Xiaoxian called the number, Chen Moqun answered, impersonating a university colleague named Wu Song Lin. He explained that Xu Liwen (Lin Nansheng) had called to delegate his teaching duties due to his illness. This quick thinking successfully defused Zhu Xiaoxian's suspicion.

Zhu Xiaoxian then sternly warned Lin Nansheng to respect boundaries and never hurt his daughter, to which Lin Nansheng acknowledged. Hu Daoyi later inquired about Lin Nansheng's well-being, and Chen Moqun confirmed he was safe for now, but frustrated that the important information remained unspoken. Meanwhile, Zhu Yizhen, guided by a secret signal, met Ji Zhongyuan at a movie theater. She reported on the broadcast content from the previous day.

More importantly, she conveyed her observations of Xu Liwen (Lin Nansheng), describing him as highly patriotic and possessing many good qualities. She proposed that the party organization consider recruiting him. Ji Zhongyuan acknowledged her suggestion but reiterated that the organization was still investigating Xu Liwen. He cautioned her not to reveal any party-related information to him until the investigation was complete.

To finally obtain the information that Lin Nansheng had tried to convey, Chen Moqun disguised himself as a doctor and arrived at the Zhu residence. He introduced himself as a colleague of Lin Nansheng's previous attending physician, claiming he was there to conduct a follow-up check-up in the other doctor's stead.

After Lin Nansheng informed Chen Moqun about Zhu Yizhen's hairpin, Chen Moqun visited Lin Nansheng, disguised as a colleague of his attending physician, claiming the regular doctor couldn't make it. Lin Nansheng reported that Zhu Yizhen was communicating with the Communists through a flower-shaped hairpin, noting she cared about it greatly and wore it on a day she supposedly had an exam but no classes were scheduled.

Chen Moqun instructed him to keep a close watch and report any new developments, anticipating Zhu Yizhen would soon report Lin Nansheng's situation to her superior. Lin Nansheng asked if they would apprehend her, to which Chen Moqun replied it depended on her actions and cooperation. Chen Moqun emphasized that Lin Nansheng must seize this opportunity to make Zhu Yizhen fall in love with him, allowing him to contact her superior and ultimately identify "Mailman."

Lin Nansheng expressed that Zhu Yizhen's feelings for him were merely gratitude, but Chen Moqun asserted that love was more than just gratitude, suggesting her innocence and kindness could be used to his advantage. Lin Nansheng questioned why the government had beaten students who were merely advocating for a boycott of Japanese goods as a patriotic act. He pointed out the government's failure to defend the country, citing the lost northeastern region and the imperiled northern region.

Chen Moqun dismissed this, stating national defense was the government's responsibility, not students'. He then produced a gun, sternly reminding Lin Nansheng that his mission was to make Zhu Yizhen fall for him, not the other way around, and warned him against using communist rhetoric to criticize his superiors. Just then, Zhu Yizhen returned home and learned a doctor was checking on Lin Nansheng. She immediately went to his room to inquire. Chen Moqun quickly put away his gun.

Lin Nansheng assured her everything was fine, explaining Dr. Chen had come in place of Dr. Meng. Zhu Yizhen greeted Chen Moqun, who confirmed Lin Nansheng was recovering well. After Zhu Yizhen left, Chen Moqun issued a final warning: if Lin Nansheng wavered in his commitment to the party-state or showed any sign of betrayal, Chen Moqun would execute him personally. Lin Nansheng acknowledged the order. That evening, Lin Nansheng was preoccupied with Chen Moqun's words and barely ate.

Zhu Yizhen, noticing his subdued mood, later brought him his favorite roast pork and duck soup. Lin Nansheng, touched by her care, explained he was recovering well but felt it was time to return to campus. He thanked her for her hospitality. Zhu Yizhen asked if he disliked living there, but Lin Nansheng confessed he had never experienced such a comfortable life. He then asked why she would risk her life when she had such a privileged existence.

Zhu Yizhen calmly replied that revolution always came at a price, a consequence she had considered. She admitted to disliking her current life, despite loving her family, feeling suffocated by the constant meticulous care. She expressed her desire to awaken more people, to overthrow a world of poverty and suffering, and to create a new, equitable life, even if it meant bleeding or dying.

The next morning, as Lin Nansheng, still recovering, walked with a cane, Zhu Yizhen offered to support him, recounting a story of her mother assisting her injured father to maintain appearances. Upon reaching the school, Lin Nansheng met Hu Daoyi. Zhu Yizhen promised to wait for Lin Nansheng after his classes.

Hu Daoyi then privately informed Lin Nansheng that Chen Moqun had arranged a room in the teachers' dormitory for him, specifically room 207, to facilitate his closeness to Zhu Yizhen. He gave Lin Nansheng the key and explained that time off from his university work had been arranged for his recovery, providing more opportunities to interact with Zhu Yizhen. For security, weekly meetings would be held at Lin Nansheng's off-campus apartment, unless there was an emergency.

Lin Nansheng and Zhu Yizhen later visited his new dormitory. Though small compared to her house, Lin Nansheng declared he preferred its "atmosphere," as it aligned with the life he wished to lead. While walking on campus, Zhu Yizhen spotted a notice board displaying a message, "Notice: Discussion about Wuthering Heights," which she recognized as a contact signal. She quickly headed to the library. Noticing her unusual behavior, Lin Nansheng approached the blackboard to examine the notice.

Meanwhile, Ji Zhongyuan confirmed with a comrade that their campus contact point could be reopened, as all suspicious individuals had been investigated. He also revealed that the organization had received confirmation of Xu Li Wen's (Lin Nansheng's alias) background, including his admission year and lack of disciplinary records, validating his identity and suggesting he could potentially be developed into a Communist, though a more cautious assessment was still needed.

Later, while out, Zhu Yizhen asked Lin Nansheng for a favor: to deliver an important letter before 5 PM to No. 16, Route Gustave de Boissezon, and place it in a hidden compartment in the mailbox. She asked him to trust her and not inquire further. Lin Nansheng took the letter, intending to open it in his dormitory. However, he realized it was likely a test set by the Communists, so he delivered the letter untouched to the designated location.

Upon returning to his dormitory, he found a note slipped under his door. Lin Nansheng then received a phone call from Chen Moqun. He reported that he had delivered the letter on time and unopened. Chen Moqun commended him, explaining the letter was a trap designed to leave a trace if opened, and that Lin Nansheng had been under constant surveillance. Satisfied with Lin Nansheng's performance, Chen Moqun predicted a leader from the Communist party would soon meet with him.

He advised Lin Nansheng not to employ any tactics or acting skills, as these underground party members were highly experienced. Instead, he should simply be himself and answer honestly whatever questions were posed. Later, Zhu Yizhen met Lin Nansheng at the Fangli Cafe. She told him she had asked him there to discuss something important, expressing her trust in him as a decent person with aspirations.

She then used a phone to make a call, instructing someone, "You can come now." She told Lin Nansheng that a car would soon arrive, and he needed only to get in, urging him to trust her without asking questions. Outside, Chen Moqun and his men monitored the cafe, but no suspicious individuals were seen entering or leaving.

When Lin Nansheng entered the car, Chen Moqun instructed his men not to follow, reasoning that the Communists were likely conducting a surprise operation for monitoring and risk assessment. He hoped Lin Nansheng would perform well and earn their trust. Lin Nansheng was driven to the Fuli Photo Studio. He was directed to the second floor, where he entered a dimly lit room. Bright camera flashes momentarily blinded him, preventing him from seeing the person questioning him.

The interrogator asked if he knew why he was there. Lin Nansheng replied that Zhu Yizhen had asked him to come. When asked if he would undertake dangerous or life-threatening tasks for her, Lin Nansheng affirmed he would, if necessary, for a friend's life or in times of national need. The interrogator questioned his fighting prowess during the student march, noting he had overpowered several police officers.

Lin Nansheng attributed this to learning a few martial arts moves from a village artist in his youth to protect his younger siblings. Lin Nansheng attempted to learn the interrogator's name, but was told it was unnecessary, only that they were Zhu Yizhen's friends. Lin Nansheng introduced himself as Xu Li Wen, and the interrogator stated, "I'll see you again," before disappearing. After the meeting, Hu Daoyi reported to Chen Moqun.

Hu Daoyi also mentioned that Gu Shenyan wanted Chen Moqun to personally sign some reimbursement forms. Gu Shenyan, while discussing the allowance, subtly probed Chen Moqun for details about the confidential mission. Chen Moqun, however, only instructed him to write a code name for the mission and list four people involved, instead of the actual two, to inflate the allowance and maintain secrecy. Gu Shenyan understood the discretion required.

Meanwhile, Ji Zhongyuan briefed Zhu Yizhen on the preliminary inspection of Xu Li Wen. He noted that while Lin Nansheng completed his assigned task, he gave a "mixed impression." Ji Zhongyuan described Lin Nansheng as a calm, collected, smart, and tactful young man, but found his composure too perfect for someone who had just arrived in Shanghai and narrowly escaped death, making him seem almost "prepared."

He also questioned Lin Nansheng's story about learning martial arts from a village artist, finding it implausible given his ability to overpower trained police officers. Ji Zhongyuan cautioned Zhu Yizhen not to let her personal feelings influence her judgment of Lin Nansheng, a warning Zhu Yizhen accepted. He also informed her that the photo studio contact point could no longer be used, and that they would make direct contact with Lin Nansheng when the time was right.

Despite Lin Nansheng and Zhu Yizhen's seemingly smooth relationship, it draws the attention of Ji Zhongyuan, who cautions Zhu Yizhen about her role as a Communist Party member, reminding her that organizational procedures must be strictly followed when assessing Lin Nansheng's (alias Xu Li Wen) suitability, despite their growing closeness. Meanwhile, Gu Shenyan, observing Hu Daoyi deliver an allowance to Lin Nansheng, realizes Lin Nansheng is the focus of Chen Moqun's secret operation.

Hu Daoyi conveys Chen Moqun's praise for Lin Nansheng's performance, urging him to remain vigilant and avoid exposing their cover. The next morning, Lin Nansheng, on his way to Shenjiang University, hears a familiar piano piece, Tchaikovsky's "The Seasons," playing from a cake shop – a tune Zhu Yizhen often listens to. He enters, eager to find the record, which the shopkeeper reveals is an import unavailable in Shanghai.

Lin Nansheng insists on acquiring it, eventually purchasing numerous pastries to persuade the reluctant shopkeeper to part with the album. Gu Shenyan, having followed Lin Nansheng into the university, immediately contacts Ji Zhongyuan via a public phone. Gu Shenyan informs Ji Zhongyuan that he has confirmed "Xu Li Wen" is Lin Nansheng, presenting his official record. Ji Zhongyuan confirms that Lin Nansheng is indeed the individual Zhu Yizhen had been considering for recruitment.

Gu Shenyan emphasizes that Chen Moqun orchestrated the student march to create an opportunity for Lin Nansheng to get close to Zhu Yizhen. Although Ji Zhongyuan maintains confidence in Zhu Yizhen's discretion, he acknowledges the risks and decides that all operatives and contact points must be moved immediately to prevent Chen Moqun from exploiting the situation further. He stresses the need for swift action and discretion during the evacuation.

Later, at the university library, Ji Zhongyuan observes Lin Nansheng and Zhu Yizhen reading together, their harmonious interaction only deepening his unease. Zhu Yizhen, captivated by Lin Nansheng, presents him with a precious gift: an original English edition of "Leaves of Grass," which she had searched extensively to find. Lin Nansheng expresses his gratitude, considering it the most cherished gift he has ever received.

He had also prepared a record for Zhu Yizhen but before he could give it to her, a student delivers a book to Zhu Yizhen, who then excuses herself to go upstairs. She meets Ji Zhongyuan, who asks about "Xu Li Wen's" recent behavior. Zhu Yizhen reports nothing unusual, but Ji Zhongyuan solemnly reveals that "Xu Li Wen" is actually Lin Nansheng, a Nationalist Party special agent.

Zhu Yizhen is shocked and struggles to accept the truth, even though Ji Zhongyuan explains that Lin Nansheng's act of saving her life was likely part of a larger conspiracy. He instructs her to evacuate immediately to a safe contact point, providing an address and a key, and to avoid all contact, even with her family, until he can join her. Unable to find Zhu Yizhen, Lin Nansheng grows concerned.

After confirming she has not returned home, he calls Chen Moqun to report her disappearance. Chen Moqun orders Lin Nansheng to return to the reading room and await further instructions. Seeing Chen Moqun mobilize his team, Gu Shenyan calls the operational team, feigning an inquiry about personnel lists to subtly gather information, learning that the captain is out with the Station Chief.

At the library, Lin Nansheng informs Chen Moqun that Zhu Yizhen left abruptly, contrary to their earlier plans to see a movie. Chen Moqun investigates the book delivered to Zhu Yizhen, discovering that a watchword had been erased. He concludes that Lin Nansheng's cover has been compromised, causing Zhu Yizhen to flee after receiving an urgent notice.

Lin Nansheng attempts to defend Zhu Yizhen, suggesting she might be on an urgent mission, but Chen Moqun dismisses this, accusing Lin Nansheng of exposing himself and jeopardizing their efforts to locate "The Mailman." Chen Moqun orders an extensive search of the campus, the immediate arrest of everyone connected to Zhang's Clothing tailor shop, and intensified surveillance on Zhu Yizhen and Gu Shenyan. Meanwhile, at the tailor shop, one of the operatives receives Ji Zhongyuan's urgent evacuation order.

After hearing that Ji Zhongyuan has already left, the operative insists on staying behind to destroy documents before following. However, Zhu Yizhen, struggling with the revelation about Lin Nansheng, believes she can still pull him back to the right side. She leaves the safe house, leaving a note declaring her belief in Lin Nansheng and her intention to recruit him. Ji Zhongyuan, returning to an empty safe house and finding her note, is frustrated by her rash decision.

Lin Nansheng rushes back to his dorm, finding Zhu Yizhen there. She confronts him, declaring he is not the Xu Li Wen she knew, but asserting that his ideals of democracy and freedom were genuine. She questions his loyalty, urging him not to align himself with those who betray their own people in the face of a greater enemy. As she tries to reason with him, Chen Moqun and his men arrive, arresting Zhu Yizhen.

A hidden gift, the record Lin Nansheng had bought for her, is left untouched on his desk. Concurrently, the operational team raids Zhang's Clothing. Fu'an, delayed by burning documents, is apprehended and taken to the Secret Service. Wang Shi'an, intending to invite Gu Shenyan for dinner, sees Chen Moqun return with the arrested individuals, including Zhu Yizhen, making it clear he was excluded from the operation.

Wang Shi'an complains to Gu Shenyan about Chen Moqun's secrecy and how his position as deputy chief feels titular. Gu Shenyan, feigning to have forgotten his wallet, returns to his office. He calls the Fu Lai Restaurant, asking for Ji Zhongyuan, only to be told he is not there. As Wang Shi'an approaches, Gu Shenyan quickly changes the subject, pretending to be discussing a dinner reservation and ordering a specialty dish, thereby avoiding suspicion.

Back at the Secret Service, Chen Moqun instructs Hu Daoyi to deflect all calls from powerful figures attempting to intercede for Zhu Yizhen, publicly stating that she is merely assisting with an investigation. In front of Lin Nansheng, Chen Moqun discusses the urgency of making Zhu Yizhen confess, implying that cooperation is her only path to survival, otherwise, she faces a dire fate.

Mindful of the brutal interrogation methods used by the Secret Service, and fearing for Zhu Yizhen's safety, Lin Nansheng volunteers to interrogate her, believing he can make her speak. Chen Moqun agrees, confident that Zhu Yizhen's feelings for Lin Nansheng will make her drop her guard, allowing them to extract information about her superior. Lin Nansheng begins the interrogation, formally identifying himself as Lin Nansheng from the Shanghai Branch of the Secret Service of Reconstruction Society.

He presses Zhu Yizhen, emphasizing that her silence will only harm her and that cooperation is her only way out. He demands to know who informed her of his identity and details about her Communist superior, questioning if she is from the Jiangsu Provincial Party Committee or Northern Shaanxi. However, Zhu Yizhen steadfastly maintains her innocence, claiming to be an ordinary student and feigning ignorance of all his questions. Lin Nansheng offers her more time to reconsider.

Observing her defiance, Hu Daoyi grows impatient, suggesting he take over the interrogation. Meanwhile, Wang Shi'an, still troubled by Zhu Yizhen's arrest, expresses his anxiety to Gu Shenyan over dinner, lamenting how the incident has ruined his cousin's plans to do business with the influential Zhu family and reflecting on the constant unease within their department.

Ji Zhongyuan arrived at a restaurant, blending in by sitting at an adjacent table and ordering food. From there, he listened intently as Wang Shi'an voiced his frustrations to Gu Shenyan. Wang Shi'an expressed feeling stifled and disappointed in his work, complaining that Chen Moqun treated him, the deputy chief, as a mere figurehead and was obsessing over finding a mole without any concrete evidence. He even questioned how Chen Moqun could suspect Gu Shenyan, despite their long-standing connection.

Gu Shenyan, subtly acknowledging Ji Zhongyuan's presence, feigned sympathy for Wang Shi'an. He hinted at Chen Moqun's recent actions involving arrests, attempting to relay crucial information without raising Wang Shi'an's suspicion. Unaware of the hidden message, Wang Shi'an thanked Gu Shenyan for his understanding and offered him a drink, making it difficult for Gu Shenyan to excuse himself immediately.

Meanwhile, in the Secret Service interrogation room, Lin Nansheng understood that Chen Moqun and Hu Daoyi were monitoring his conversation with Zhu Yizhen. To spare Zhu Yizhen from brutal torture and to avoid compromising his own identity, he chose to provoke her. He bluntly stated that his entire relationship with her was a calculated deception to uncover Communist leads, and that every word he had spoken to her was a lie.

Zhu Yizhen was visibly shocked and pained, but she steadfastly maintained her innocence, asserting she was merely a student from Shenjiang University and had no ties to the Communist Party. Lin Nansheng pressed her further, recalling their first meeting at Cafe Le Cancoll, which he identified as a secret contact point.

He detailed how he had posed as a teaching assistant to gradually get closer to her, and revealed his discovery of her flower-shaped hairpin as a signaling device and Zhang's Clothing as a liaison station, claiming its owner and workers were her comrades. Despite his detailed accusations and aggressive demeanor, Zhu Yizhen refused to confess, maintaining her ignorance of any Communist connections and accusing him of being a liar.

Lin Nansheng reiterated that their political stances were fundamentally opposed and demanded she reveal her superior and all her knowledge, but she simply repeated her denial. Chen Moqun, observing the interrogation, was frustrated by Zhu Yizhen's unwavering defiance. He summoned Lin Nansheng, admitting he had underestimated Zhu Yizhen. Chen Moqun questioned why Lin Nansheng had returned to his dorm earlier and what Zhu Yizhen had said during their unexpected encounter.

Lin Nansheng, recalling Zhu Yizhen's emotional accusation about the Kuomintang killing its own people, felt conflicted. He gave a vague response, stating she had questioned his lies, and he had simply told her he was following orders. Chen Moqun, sensing Lin Nansheng's reluctance might stem from personal feelings, asked which torture methods would be effective. Lin Nansheng requested more time, concerned for Zhu Yizhen's well-being.

Disappointed, Chen Moqun accused Lin Nansheng of failing him and ordered him to remain in the interrogation room, writing a comprehensive account of everything that had occurred between him and Zhu Yizhen, without omitting any detail. Back at the restaurant, Wang Shi'an confided in Gu Shenyan about his desperate efforts to bring Wang Zhi back to Shanghai, even guaranteeing Director Dai that he would dismantle the Communists' Jiangsu Provincial Party Committee base.

He despaired that Wang Zhi's death left him without a plan, emphasizing his inability to discuss this sensitive issue with anyone else. Noticing the agents assigned to monitor them, Wang Shi'an, in a fit of pique, called them over to join their table, sarcastically suggesting they might as well watch openly. Gu Shenyan seized this opportunity, excusing himself to use the restroom. There, he met Ji Zhongyuan, who had followed his coded signal to the restaurant.

Gu Shenyan informed Ji Zhongyuan that Zhu Yizhen and another comrade, Sun Fu'an (the shop assistant from Zhang's Clothing), had been arrested and were being held in the Shanghai District. He explained that Zhang's Clothing was a Communist staging point and that Sun Fu'an and the owner were comrades, though the owner had managed to escape as they had already been warned to evacuate.

Gu Shenyan instructed Ji Zhongyuan to immediately contact Zhu Xiaoxian, Zhu Yizhen’s father, and urge him to reach out to Zhou Yaoting, the deputy director of the Secret Service headquarters in Nanjing. He emphasized that Zhou Yaoting had a personal feud with Chen Moqun, which could be exploited for Zhu Yizhen’s rescue.

Additionally, Ji Zhongyuan was to ensure all evidence linking Zhu Yizhen to the Communist Party was swiftly destroyed, as without it, even Zhou Yaoting would struggle to intervene effectively. Gu Shenyan also provided Ji Zhongyuan with the address and telephone number of their new liaison station, Shengji Fishery, cautioning him against direct contact with Zhu Yizhen or revealing his identity, regardless of the circumstances. Ji Zhongyuan, expertly evading Secret Service surveillance, met with Zhu Xiaoxian.

He revealed that Zhu Yizhen had been arrested by the Shanghai Secret Service and, crucially, that Lin Nansheng, who had been recuperating at Zhu Xiaoxian's home, was in fact a special agent. Zhu Xiaoxian, upon learning the dire situation, immediately telephoned Nanjing to expedite Zhou Yaoting's arrival in Shanghai. He then returned home and instructed all his staff that no one was permitted to use the household phone, suspecting it might be bugged.

Despite his servants' visible worry for Zhu Yizhen, Zhu Xiaoxian maintained a calm demeanor, reassuring them that his "connection" from Nanjing was on his way and everything would be resolved soon. Meanwhile, Hu Daoyi subjected Sun Fu'an to brutal torture, demanding information about Zhu Yizhen’s Communist identity and the tailor shop’s activities. Despite the agonizing pain, Fu'an steadfastly denied any knowledge, claiming he was merely a shop assistant and reiterating that Zhu Yizhen was just a wealthy customer.

Zhu Yizhen, held in an adjacent cell, could hear Fu'an's tormented screams, which distressed her greatly. Lin Nansheng, observing her reaction and reflecting on Zhu Yizhen’s past words about the injustice of the Kuomintang, began to question his own identity and the harsh methods employed against the Communists. Frustrated by Fu'an's unwavering silence, Chen Moqun decided to confront Zhu Yizhen with the shop assistant’s suffering.

He had the severely injured Fu'an dragged before Zhu Yizhen, hoping the sight would break her resolve. However, even in his battered state, Fu'an repeatedly denied Zhu Yizhen's Communist ties, implicitly warning her to remain silent. Zhu Yizhen continued to insist she knew nothing and that Fu'an was merely a shop assistant. Just as Chen Moqun was contemplating more extreme measures, he received an urgent phone call from the Secret Service headquarters in Nanjing.

The caller informed him that Deputy Director Zhou Yaoting would be arriving in Shanghai by train that morning on official business, and Chen Moqun was to receive him. Chen Moqun immediately understood that his “postman” (the mole) had acted swiftly to alert Nanjing, taking advantage of his rivalry with Zhou Yaoting. This unexpected development placed Chen Moqun in a very difficult and passive position, intensifying his concern about the mole within his ranks.

Reacting to this sudden turn of events, Chen Moqun knew he had to secure a confession before Zhou Yaoting’s arrival. He ordered Captain Hu to prepare cars and the operational team to depart within ten minutes. Chen Moqun then secretly took Zhu Yizhen and several other arrested individuals to a secluded area in the countryside. There, he executed a series of people in front of Zhu Yizhen, using their deaths as a brutal intimidation tactic.

As more comrades fell, Zhu Yizhen became increasingly distraught. When it was Sun Fu'an’s turn, Chen Moqun specifically shot him in front of her. He then commanded Lin Nansheng to execute Zhu Yizhen personally. Lin Nansheng, attempting to remain composed, pleaded with Chen Moqun, arguing that killing Zhu Yizhen would eliminate their only lead. Enraged, Chen Moqun held a pistol to Lin Nansheng’s head, threatening to kill him first if he disobeyed.

Despite the horrific ordeal and the immediate threat to Lin Nansheng, Zhu Yizhen remained defiant, steadfastly proclaiming her innocence. With his coercive methods failing, Chen Moqun was forced to abandon the execution. He had Zhu Yizhen brought back to the Secret Service, acknowledging that her prominent family status (as Zhu Xiaoxian's daughter) prevented him from eliminating her without greater consequences.

As the car drove away, Zhu Yizhen watched in agony as the agents threw the bodies of the executed individuals into a pit for burial. Back in the interrogation room, she sat in a daze as she was handcuffed to a chair. Chen Moqun, still reeling from the unexpected intervention, inquired about Gu Shenyan's activities from the previous day.

He was informed that Gu Shenyan and Wang Shi'an had gone to the Fu Lai Restaurant and then returned home, with no unusual behavior reported. The agents also confirmed that their home phones had been monitored and no suspicious calls were made or received. However, the agent mentioned that Wang Shi'an had surprisingly called them over to his table for a drink.

The only brief gap in their surveillance was when Gu Shenyan went to the restroom for a few minutes. Chen Moqun ordered his men to continue close surveillance on Gu Shenyan, instructing them to identify and monitor anyone he contacted. The next morning, Gu Shenyan arrived at the office and was immediately greeted by Captain Hu. Hu presented him with a document for signature, a list of the Communists executed that morning. Gu Shenyan noted the unusual efficiency, remarking on how swiftly they were apprehended and executed.

Hu Daoyi presented the list of executed Communist Party members to Gu Shenyan for his signature. Gu Shenyan took the opportunity to inquire about Zhu Yizhen, learning she had been brought back to prison as it was "not time for her to die yet." Separately, Hu Daoyi also uncovered that Zhu Yizhen had purchased a high-power radio, which could be modified to enhance its wireless reception for long-distance signals, effectively turning it into a communication device.

Chen Moqun consulted Lin Nansheng for his opinion on Zhu Yizhen's radio. Lin Nansheng, recalling seeing the radio in Zhu Yizhen's room and concerned about her safety to prevent her vulnerability from falling into Chen Moqun's hands, gave a vague response, claiming he had only heard "pure music" from it.

Section Chief Lu, however, speculated that the radio was a high-quality model, similar to those used by Communists for signal boosting after the Xinzhuang incident, and suggested it was used to receive secret intelligence, especially after Wang Zhi's arrest. Chen Moqun then ordered Hu Daoyi to lead a team to Zhu Yizhen's house to retrieve the radio in its original state for inspection.

After Hu Daoyi left, Lin Nansheng, feigning a need to write reports, secretly hurried to Zhu Yizhen's residence. His journey was aided by a flat tire on the action team's vehicle, providing a crucial delay. Lin Nansheng arrived at the Zhu family home on his bicycle, climbing over the wall to enter Zhu Yizhen's room.

There, he encountered Zhu Xiaoxian, Zhu Yizhen's father, who was understandably furious and tried to drive him away, distrusting a Secret Service agent given his daughter's current imprisonment. Lin Nansheng, however, urgently explained he was there to save Zhu Yizhen and needed to remove any suspicious modifications from the radio before the agents arrived. Zhu Xiaoxian, initially pulling a gun on Lin Nansheng, saw the approaching Secret Service cars and realized the urgency.

Lin Nansheng then sincerely confessed his love for Zhu Yizhen and assured Zhu Xiaoxian he would do nothing to harm her. With no other choice, Zhu Xiaoxian decided to trust Lin Nansheng and went downstairs to stall the approaching agents. Zhu Xiaoxian confronted Hu Daoyi and his men, attempting to block their entry to his daughter's room, leading to a tense standoff.

This bought Lin Nansheng just enough time to successfully dismantle and remove the crucial modified coil from the radio. When Hu Daoyi finally forced his way into the room, Lin Nansheng had finished, and the radio appeared ordinary. After Hu Daoyi collected the seemingly unmodified radio, Lin Nansheng revealed the removed part to Zhu Xiaoxian, confirming that Zhu Yizhen was now safe from this particular piece of evidence.

Although grateful for his daughter's sake, Zhu Xiaoxian sternly told Lin Nansheng never to contact her again and helped him escape the premises undetected. Meanwhile, Chen Moqun went to the train station to pick up Deputy Director Zhou Yaoting, only to discover that Zhou Yaoting had arrived earlier than expected and was already at the Shanghai branch.

Wang Shi'an, feeling intentionally sidelined by Chen Moqun, seized the opportunity to complain about Chen Moqun's secrecy to Zhou Yaoting, even falsely claiming Chen Moqun was out on an urgent errand. Zhou Yaoting requested Wang Zhi's files and also inquired about Zhu Yizhen.

Wang Shi'an openly expressed his dissatisfaction with Chen Moqun's handling of affairs, portraying him as a secretive leader who had excluded his deputy from key operations and lacked concrete evidence, despite having investigated Zhu Yizhen for a long time. Chen Moqun, learning of Zhou Yaoting's early arrival, rushed back but was initially blocked by Zhou Yaoting's guards until his arrival was announced.

During their meeting, Zhou Yaoting maintained a cordial yet subtly critical demeanor, directly accusing Chen Moqun of withholding information from the entire Shanghai branch regarding Wang Zhi's case. He pointed out the lack of solid evidence against the alleged Communist spy "Mailman" and Zhu Yizhen, and directly attributed Wang Zhi's death to Chen Moqun's arbitrary actions.

Chen Moqun attempted to explain, presenting Zhu Yizhen as a promising new lead connected to "Mailman," and eagerly suggested they inspect the radio Hu Daoyi had just brought in. They proceeded to the telecommunications department, but after a thorough inspection, the technician found no modifications; it was merely "an ordinary radio."

While Chen Moqun was still in disbelief, Lin Nansheng discretely approached Zhu Yizhen and whispered that he had removed the coil from the radio and instructed her to "just don't admit to anything." Relieved, Zhu Yizhen faced Chen Moqun's subsequent interrogation with calm composure. She skillfully deflected all accusations, explaining her participation in the student march as a patriotic act where even Lin Nansheng was injured protecting them.

She clarified her investigation into Lin Nansheng's background was simply to understand her "boyfriend," a "tutor" who surprisingly displayed combat skills, not an attempt at recruitment. She dismissed her visits to "Zhang's Clothing" as ordinary shopping trips and admitted to being a "passionate and radical" student hoping for a stronger nation, challenging Chen Moqun to prove otherwise. She even questioned if Lin Nansheng had planned to deceive her feelings from the beginning.

Further checks on the owner of Zhang's Clothing yielded no suspicious information. Seeing that Zhu Yizhen remained unyielding and with no evidence, Chen Moqun, despite his frustration, ended the interrogation, after Lin Nansheng also remained silent when asked if Zhu Yizhen had ever acted suspiciously. Zhou Yaoting then reminded Chen Moqun of the headquarters' expectations regarding Wang Zhi's death, reiterating the need for a clear explanation.

Chen Moqun still proposed detaining Zhu Yizhen as a "left-leaning radical" in a House of Correction in Suzhou. However, Zhou Yaoting, taking Wang Zhi's related documents, subtly warned Chen Moqun about the high-level connections of the Zhu family, mentioning calls reaching the Ministry of Finance and even Minister Kong.

He stressed the wide implications of Zhu Yizhen's case, which also involved Director Dai, and reminded Chen Moqun that the investigation into Wang Zhi was merely the beginning of his own scrutiny, advising him to "be practical." Understanding the immense political pressure and the implicit warning, Chen Moqun, after Zhou Yaoting's departure for Nanjing, ordered the release of Zhu Yizhen and the owner of Zhang's Clothing.

He instructed his men to maintain covert surveillance on the Zhu residence, refusing to let the case end, believing he still held the "fish hook" and would eventually "capture them." Zhu Yizhen was released from custody and had an emotional reunion with her father, Zhu Xiaoxian, and the family staff, who warmly welcomed her home, visibly relieved by her safe return.

After Nanjing's forced intervention, Chen Moqun reluctantly released Zhu Yizhen, but had her secretly monitored. Upon arriving home, Zhu Yizhen was met by her devoted servants, Aunt Zhang and Sister Wang, who immediately expressed their relief and concern. They noted she looked thinner and must have suffered. Aunt Zhang mentioned preparing her favorite braised pork shank for nutrition, and also that she had prepared grapefruit leaves for a bath, which they believed would cleanse away bad luck.

Meanwhile, Zhang, still bearing injuries, returned to his ravaged tailor shop, feeling a sense of desolation at the sight of the mess. That night, Gu Shenyan calmly stood by his window, aware that he was still under surveillance, a target of suspicion. In her room, Zhu Yizhen privately reflected on the harrowing experience and the sacrifices of her comrades, deeply affected by Lin Nansheng's deception. Overwhelmed, she broke down in tears.

Lin Nansheng, having regained his composure, reported to Chen Moqun as if nothing had happened. Chen Moqun informed him that he had read all the reports and believed Lin Nansheng had not made any mistakes during his engagement with Zhu Yizhen, concluding the issue lay with other factors. Convinced that Gu Shenyan would eventually make a mistake, Chen Moqun reassigned Lin Nansheng to the record office, ordering him to observe Gu Shenyan's daily activities and uncover any vulnerabilities.

Lin Nansheng then reported to Gu Shenyan, who, while understanding Lin Nansheng's secretive mission for the Station Chief, sternly warned him against using personal excuses like his mother's health again, joking that it might bring bad luck. Gu Shenyan then offered Lin Nansheng coffee and genuinely expressed that he had missed Lin Nansheng during his absence. Zhu Yizhen was expelled from Shenjiang University.

Her father, Zhu Xiaoxian, tried to persuade her to leave Shanghai, suggesting she go to Hong Kong, England, France, or America to continue her studies, as Shanghai had become too dangerous. However, Zhu Yizhen was adamant about staying, hinting at an unfinished mission. Zhu Xiaoxian, comparing her to her impulsive mother, cautioned her against involvement in politics, reminding her how few people arrested by the Secret Service ever truly escape unharmed.

He expressed his deepest wish for her safety and sorrow that he couldn't protect her forever. He also appealed to her by detailing the distress her arrest caused their household staff, mentioning Sister Wang secretly crying in the kitchen and Aunt Zhang desperately seeking help from a relative connected to the government fire department to secure her release. Zhu Xiaoxian emphasized that these people loved her like family and had watched her grow up.

Zhu Yizhen, moved, promised to take care of herself, but her father insisted she consider those who cared for her. Later, Section Chief Lu of the telecommunication department reported to Chen Moqun that the Communist superior's radio station, previously silent, had suddenly become active, transmitting frequent calls throughout the night with the same message. Chen Moqun surmised that after Zhu Yizhen's arrest, the Communists' superiors were desperate for information.

He ordered Section Chief Lu to continuously monitor the channel, with strict instructions to track its location the moment it resumed transmitting. He expressed his belief that this could lead them to the core members of the Jiangsu Provincial Committee, the Mailman, and the entire underground organization in Shanghai. The telecommunication department later requested access to archived materials on Communist radio activities from Gu Shenyan.

Seizing the opportunity, Gu Shenyan subtly probed Section Chief Lu for any new developments regarding the Communist radio, while emphasizing the importance of analyzing historical records. Soon after, Deputy Chief Wang Shi'an sought Gu Shenyan's advice on how his cousin could do business with the influential Zhu family. Gu Shenyan astutely suggested capitalizing on Zhu Yizhen's recent release, reasoning that Zhu Xiaoxian would be deeply indebted to Director Zhou for his intervention.

Gu proposed a business partnership where Zhu Xiaoxian would provide capital, Wang's cousin would manage, and Director Zhou would receive shares and year-end dividends, thus leveraging this connection to gain influence in Nanjing, potentially reaching Minister Kong. Wang Shi'an was thrilled by the ingenious plan and profusely thanked Gu Shenyan, insisting he take a share in the venture, which Gu politely refused, offering only his advice.

Gu Shenyan then used Wang Shi'an's phone to call Shengji Fishery, confirming an existing order for flower crabs and requesting more, stating he would pick them up himself. This was a coded message to Ji Zhongyuan, disguised as the stall owner. At the fishery, Gu quickly informed Ji that he was being tailed and that both the Zhu family and Zhang's tailor shop remained under heavy surveillance, with two Secret Service squads assigned to Zhu Yizhen's residence.

Gu explained that Zhu Yizhen and Zhang were still in grave danger; they couldn't flee without being deemed absconders, yet staying exposed them to constant risk of re-arrest. He also mentioned that Comrade Sun Fuan and several other comrades had been killed, creating a precarious situation. Gu Shenyan revealed to Ji Zhongyuan that the Secret Service had found a radio in Zhu Yizhen's house during her previous arrest, which was used for receiving instructions from their superiors.

He explained that the main transmitter was securely hidden in her family's bank safe, a place no one would suspect. Due to the recent complex events and the killings of comrades, Gu stressed the urgent need to report back to their superiors with his plan for assistance. Later, while sharing flower crabs, Chen Moqun tried to gauge Gu Shenyan's thoughts on the Communist's next moves.

Gu feigned agreement with Chen's frustrations about the relentless Communists, subtly advising him not to overexert himself, reminding him that personal well-being should not be sacrificed for work. He also expressed admiration for Chen Moqun's dedication, making Chen feel secure. When Chen regretfully attributed the failure in Wang Zhi's case to other departments, Gu gently corrected him, admitting that the Communists had simply outmaneuvered them this time. Chen, however, declared his unyielding resolve to hunt down all Communists in Shanghai.

Chen then hypothetically asked Gu what he would do as the head of the Jiangsu Provincial Committee in this situation. Gu shrewdly suggested prioritizing the safety of his people and maintaining silence until the opportune moment, acknowledging that without activity, there was nothing for the Secret Service to track. Just then, Section Chief Lu arrived, and Gu took the opportunity to tell Lu that he would have Lin Nansheng deliver additional records of Communist radio activity.

Aunt Zhang, while at the market, was approached by a man who mysteriously handed her 50 yuan, asking her to return it to Zhu Yizhen as repayment for a loan for his child's medical treatment. Aunt Zhang relayed this to Zhu Yizhen, who, upon inspecting the banknote, noticed "Guangci Gynecology" subtly written on it. Understanding the coded message, Zhu Yizhen promptly went to Guangci Hospital, heading directly to the gynecology department.

Secret Service agents, who had been following her, were unable to enter the women-only area. Inside, a nurse, sent by Ji Zhongyuan, met Zhu Yizhen. Zhu Yizhen expressed deep remorse for her past recklessness and its damage to the party, requesting disciplinary action. The nurse assured her that her message would be conveyed and then entrusted her with an important new mission. Following her instructions, Zhu Yizhen contacted Banque de l'Indochine to arrange access to her safe deposit box.

A report from surveillance agents to Chen Moqun highlighted the suspicious exchange at the market, Zhu Yizhen's unmonitored visit to Guangci Hospital, and her scheduled bank appointment, leading Chen Moqun to suspect a possible trap and caution his men against hasty action, recalling the previous botched arrest. The next day, Zhu Yizhen went to the bank and retrieved a large, heavy black suitcase from her family's safe deposit box.

Immediately after leaving, she instructed her driver to run red lights and circle the city, clearly attempting to shake off her tail. Agents reported her suspicious behavior and evasive driving to Chen Moqun, who acknowledged the potential significance but remained wary. Meanwhile, Gu Shenyan made a calculated move. He publicly called Palace Hotel, booking room 209 under his name, ensuring Lin Nansheng would overhear the details before leaving the office for the afternoon.

Lin Nansheng, as expected, reported this information to Chen Moqun. Simultaneously, surveillance agents reported Zhu Yizhen's continued evasive driving, which, when analyzed by Chen Moqun's team, showed her route converging on Palace Hotel.

With Zhu Yizhen carrying a large, heavy suitcase – which Chen suspected to be the high-powered Communist radio from the bank safe – and Gu Shenyan booking a room at the same hotel, Chen Moqun concluded they were meeting to either transmit urgent information or relocate the device. Convinced he had uncovered their secret rendezvous, Chen Moqun mobilized a large team of agents to the Palace Hotel, intending to catch them red-handed.

Chen Moqun, confident in his intelligence, led his team to storm the private room. Gu Shenyan, playing his part, greeted Chen with feigned surprise, inquiring about the intrusion. Ignoring Gu's questions, Chen demanded that Zhu Yizhen's suitcase be opened, convinced it contained illicit Communist materials.

Despite Gu's protestations that it belonged to the Zhu family, Chen forced it open, only to find it filled with gold bars and a shareholders' equity statement for "Shanghai Yimei Trading Co., Ltd." The document listed Zhu Xiaoxian with 50% shares, Zhou Yaoting with 30%, Wang Shi'an with 10%, and even Gu Shenyan himself with 10%.

Just then, Zhou Yaoting, Wang Shi'an, and Zhu Xiaoxian emerged from an adjacent private dining room, revealing they were in the midst of a business meeting. Zhou Yaoting was furious, sarcastically questioning Chen Moqun's presence, accusing him of overstepping his authority and trying to expose him for bribery. Chen tried to explain it was a "misunderstanding," but Zhou dismissed him, declaring that Chen had caught him "red-handed" and promising to commend his "contribution" to headquarters.

Zhu Xiaoxian attempted to express gratitude for Zhou's help in clearing his daughter, but Zhou, still seething, outright rejected the business partnership and advised Zhu to donate the gold bars to a social welfare organization or orphanage.

Following Zhou Yaoting's departure, Chen Moqun was recalled to Nanjing for an investigation. His superior accused him of mishandling Wang Zhi's death by using a fabricated Communist story and unjustly detaining Deputy Director Zhou, implying Chen acted out of self-interest. Chen, frustrated, accepted the order to report immediately. Before leaving, Chen Moqun urged Lin Nansheng to continue his work in Shanghai, expressing high expectations for him and advising him to "do whatever it takes to gain a foothold."

Meanwhile, with Chen Moqun no longer a direct threat, Ji Zhongyuan confirmed that Zhu Yizhen, having successfully assisted in retrieving the organization's radio disguised as the hotel meeting, would travel from Hong Kong to a contact point in Southern Zhejiang to continue her mission. Zhu Xiaoxian, after finishing his business, prepared to move to Hong Kong with his daughter. At Kai Tak Airport, Zhu Yizhen tearfully bid farewell to her father.

He reminisced about her childhood in Hong Kong and expressed his relief at having her by his side. However, Zhu Yizhen firmly told him she was leaving, explaining that she was grown up, had her "own choice and ambition," and needed "to do more for my late comrades." She apologized and urged him to take good care of himself before departing.

Lin Nansheng meticulously processed and destroyed all files related to Xu Liwen, symbolizing the end of a past dream and the comfortable life he had envisioned, which had now turned to ashes. The narrative then moved to the spring of 1937. Japanese military forces were steadily increasing their presence in Shanghai, conducting manoeuvres in Yangshupu District and holding urban street fighting rehearsals in North Sichuan Road. The city was becoming a dangerous intersection of various vying powers.

Director Fang Yubin from the Ministry of Civil Service arrived at the Shanghai Secret Service to announce new appointments. Wang Shi'an, who had anticipated being named the new station chief, was disappointed to discover he was appointed only as the "acting" station chief. Director Fang encouraged him, stating that the higher authorities were watching and that good achievements would secure his full position. Eager to solidify his authority, Wang Shi'an quickly sought to ally with Gu Shenyan.

He revealed that Chen Moqun would not be returning to Shanghai, having been given a "fake position" in Nanjing, and that he (Wang) should strive to excel as station chief. Wang Shi'an then offered Gu Shenyan the position of Deputy Station Chief, emphasizing his trust in Gu's capabilities and his discomfort with others like Hu Daoyi leading the operation squad.

Gu feigned disinterest in higher office, claiming he preferred his current role in the records office, but agreed to consider the offer. Wang also informed Gu about a new mission: investigating Eisuke Ikeda, a Japanese businessman suspected of being a spy who was reportedly in contact with Takahashi Senbei from the Nakajima Trading Company, an intelligence front.

Wang Shi'an also requested that Lin Nansheng be sent back to Nanjing for redistribution to a special training program, citing Lin's past loyalty to Chen Moqun as a reason he couldn't handle him. Gu Shenyan discussed Wang Shi'an's offer with Ji Zhongyuan. He saw the Deputy Station Chief position, with its direct control over the operation squad, as an excellent opportunity to gain crucial intelligence.

Ji Zhongyuan, however, warned him that the role was a "double-edged sword," as it would place him under constant scrutiny, especially from Wang Shi'an, who was "definitely not easy." Despite the risks, Gu decided to accept the position, believing it beneficial for their cause. Ji agreed to inform their superiors. They also concluded that for Gu's safety and operational security, Lin Nansheng should leave Shanghai.

Unaware of these machinations, Lin Nansheng approached Captain Hu Daoyi, offering to help with photo processing and expressing his keen interest in joining the operation squad. Hu informed him that the squad was now under Deputy Chief Gu's command and that Lin should speak to Gu directly. Lin Nansheng then went to Gu Shenyan's office, having already tidied it.

He passionately advocated for his placement in the operation squad, highlighting his Japanese language skills and his conviction that he was better suited for frontline work, particularly with the new Japanese spy investigation. Gu Shenyan, however, remained resolute, informing Lin that the station had decided to send him back to Nanjing for redistribution to a special training program. Gu emphatically stated that soldiers must obey orders and curtly instructed Lin Nansheng to pack his belongings and leave.

Distraught, Lin Nansheng wandered the streets. He spotted a movie poster for "Mr. Deeds Goes To Town," which instantly brought to mind Zhu Yizhen and their past promise to see the film together. While lost in thought, he unintentionally noticed someone following him, so he turned and walked away, speeding up as he went.

He quickly ducked into a cake shop, where he was surprised and delighted to find Zuo Qiuming, his old friend from special training, whom he hadn't seen in months. Lin Nansheng bought some cakes, and they found a secluded park bench to catch up. Zuo Qiuming playfully reminded Lin Nansheng of his old habit of sneaking cakes during training.

Zuo Qiuming claimed he had resigned from the army and was in Shanghai for a family matter involving a high official, though Lin Nansheng seemed skeptical. Their conversation turned serious as they discussed the escalating Japanese aggression in Shanghai, including military manoeuvres and street fighting rehearsals. They both agreed that a war was imminent, as Japan was actively trying to provoke China and "nibble away at the whole China." Zuo Qiuming declared his readiness to "die for the country."

After their meeting, Lin Nansheng returned home. While organizing his belongings, he found a pen Zuo Qiuming had given him, recalling their shared belief that as long as they remained on the same path, they would meet again. This encounter reinforced Lin Nansheng's unwavering determination to stay in Shanghai and fight for his homeland. The next day, Gu Shenyan made a phone call to the "safe care registry," requesting comprehensive information about Japanese secret services across all of China.

Lin Nansheng, still resolved, returned to Gu Shenyan's office, pleading one last time to stay and fight on the Shanghai frontline. Gu, however, remained unyielding, advising Lin to "cherish your life" and obey orders. He presented Lin Nansheng with the official transfer order, instructing him to report to Nanjing by the following day.

Lin Nansheng, with tears in his eyes, took the order and confronted Gu, asking if he was behind his transfer, given that Chen Moqun had specifically assigned him to Gu to investigate the mole. Gu angrily denied the accusation and ordered Lin Nansheng to surrender his gun. As Lin Nansheng reluctantly picked up his transfer order, he noticed a file on Japanese spies lying on Gu Shenyan's desk.

Leaving Gu Shenyan's office, Lin Nansheng saw Captain Hu Daoyi and his team hurrying out. He discreetly followed them and observed them tailing Eisuke Ikeda, the Japanese businessman. Not long after, he spotted Lan Xinjie with Ikeda and approached her, asking for her help in gathering information on Ikeda's activities.

Lin Nansheng took on the role of Lan Xinjie’s driver, regularly escorting her to and from work. Meanwhile, the team tasked with monitoring Ikeda Eisuke, led by Hu Daoyi, found it impossible to get close to the suspected Japanese spy. The surveillance team reported their findings to their superiors, detailing that Ikeda moved with extreme caution, was always accompanied, and restricted his movements to places frequented by Japanese businessmen and soldiers.

This made direct surveillance challenging, preventing the team from gathering any useful intelligence. Wang Shi'an, the station chief, was displeased with the lack of progress and the pressure from higher authorities in Nanjing. He firmly instructed his team to find new solutions, expressing his belief that Ikeda was engaged in illicit activities in Shanghai, despite the absence of concrete evidence. During this period, Lin Nansheng had discreetly inquired with Lan Xinjie about Ikeda's true identity.

While Lan Xinjie acknowledged Ikeda as a regular client at the dance hall, she adhered to her policy of not prying into clients' personal affairs. Lin Nansheng explained his urgent need for information, as he was unable to make direct contact with Ikeda himself. Lan Xinjie agreed to try and help, though she made no guarantees.

She then proposed that Lin Nansheng act as her driver, reasoning that this way her assistance wouldn't be uncompensated, and it would simplify the exchange of any information she uncovered. Lan Xinjie's sharp observational skills led her to notice fine sand in Ikeda’s shoes. Having grown up by the sea, she recognized the distinct sand and concluded that Ikeda frequently visited the beach.

This observation added to the intelligence agency's existing suspicions, as Ikeda was publicly known as the head of a fishery trading company whose activities included purchasing stock from beaches, an unusual task for a company president. Lin Nansheng later borrowed Lan Xinjie’s car to visit the beach and investigate further. Upon his return, he pressed Lan Xinjie for more information, particularly concerning the upcoming Tenno Festival party at Ikeda's home, to which she had been invited.

Lan Xinjie expressed her reservations, pointing out that as a dancer, people naturally withheld sensitive information from her. She felt she had already provided sufficient help to a friend. Lin Nansheng emphasized the critical importance of the matter, describing Ikeda as a dangerous figure far more complex than he appeared. He also acknowledged her need for compensation, promising to discuss payment with his superior. Driven by his desire to remain in Shanghai, Lin Nansheng sought out Wang Shi'an.

Despite Wang Shi'an's initial resistance and a reminder of his transfer order to Nanjing, Lin Nansheng stated his determination to investigate Ikeda and earn a chance to stay. He revealed that the surveillance team had already been withdrawn and presented his findings, explaining that he had obtained information through a "peripheral agent" and had secured an opportunity to get close to Ikeda and enter his residence.

Lin Nansheng detailed Ikeda’s upcoming Tenno Festival party, a celebration of the Japanese emperor's birthday, to which his agent, Lan Xinjie, had been invited. He requested Wang Shi'an to officially recognize Lan Xinjie as a peripheral agent and approve her payment. Wang Shi'an, impressed by Lin Nansheng's initiative, agreed to fund the mission. He then inquired if Lin Nansheng would still proceed without the promise of remaining in Shanghai.

Lin Nansheng firmly affirmed he would, explaining his conviction that the Japanese were invaders and must be stopped. Satisfied, Wang Shi'an promised Lin Nansheng could stay if he successfully uncovered Ikeda's true identity and operational goals in Shanghai. He then instructed Lin Nansheng to equip his agent with a miniature camera to obtain solid evidence.

When Lin Nansheng informed Lan Xinjie of the full scope of the mission, she first shared joyous personal news: she was getting married to a soldier from the 87th Division, a man she loved who would finally give her a home. She then admitted her desperate need for money to plan for her future, as her fiancé did not wish for her to continue working at the dance hall, and his military pay was meager.

Upon seeing the miniature camera, Lan Xinjie hesitated, acknowledging the extreme risk involved in taking photographs compared to merely gathering verbal intelligence. Lin Nansheng apologized for placing her in such danger but stressed that this was their only opportunity to get close to Ikeda, whom he identified as an invader intent on harming the Chinese people. Lan Xinjie, recalling the horrors of the January 28th incident and the Japanese bombing of Zhabei, eventually relented.

She requested Lin Nansheng teach her how to use the camera and made him promise to pay her the agreed-upon sum immediately upon the mission's completion. Lin Nansheng readily agreed and instructed her on operating the device. Before the party, Lin Nansheng met Zuo Qiuming, whom he had previously observed with Ikeda and Takahashi at the dance hall.

Zuo Qiuming explained he was in Shanghai on a business venture for a Ministry of Transport official's relative, and his work primarily involved dealings with the Japanese. Lin Nansheng, aware that Zuo Qiuming would attend the Tenno Festival party, asked him to look after Lan Xinjie, especially if she found herself in danger. Zuo Qiuming inquired if Lan Xinjie was part of Lin Nansheng's network, but Lin Nansheng insisted she was simply his friend.

Zuo Qiuming also revealed he knew about Lin Nansheng's transfer order to Nanjing, and Lin Nansheng confirmed his desire to stay in Shanghai, explaining that the Ikeda investigation was his chance to remain. Zuo Qiuming acknowledged the risks involved, given the chaotic nature of the party, and explicitly agreed to help, assuring Lin Nansheng he would do his best. On the day of the Tenno Festival party, Lin Nansheng drove a visibly nervous Lan Xinjie to Ikeda's opulent residence.

Seeing her anxiety, he urged her to calm herself, even offering to abort the mission, but she bravely asserted her resolve. He reminded her that her safety was paramount and that while taking photos was crucial, she should not force herself if the risk was too high. He also provided instructions on how to react if she encountered trouble.

At the entrance, Ikeda was waiting, but the guards still rigorously checked Lan Xinjie's invitation, a stark reminder of the mission's gravity. Inside, as Ikeda, Takahashi, and Zuo Qiuming engaged in animated business discussions, with Zuo confirming his boss's satisfaction with their commitment and his own efforts to foster harmonious relations between the two nations, Lan Xinjie excused herself to use the ladies' room.

From there, she discreetly made her way to Ikeda's private study, using the miniature camera to photograph documents and pictures on the wall. Meanwhile, Ikeda noticed her prolonged absence and, excusing himself from the conversation, began to search for her. As he approached his study, Colonel Fukuda unexpectedly arrived, asking for Ikeda in the front yard, thereby diverting Ikeda and narrowly saving Lan Xinjie from discovery. During her clandestine search, Lan Xinjie stumbled upon a disturbing photograph that fell from a book, depicting Ikeda brutally killing innocent civilians, leaving her visibly shaken.

Lan Xinjie found herself in a precarious situation within Ikeda’s study. Despite her attempts to feign admiration for his antiques, Ikeda remained suspicious after discovering her presence, insisting on inspecting her purse. Despite her resistance, he discovered a miniature camera, prompting him to aggressively interrogate her, demanding to know who sent her. Just as Ikeda was pressing Lan Xinjie, Zuo Qiuming intervened, stating that Lan Xinjie was under his purview and requesting her release so he could remain to explain.

Lan Xinjie, terrified, fled with Lin Nansheng. Upon arriving home, she gave Lin Nansheng the genuine film she had carefully hidden, explaining she had followed his instructions to prepare a spare film to swap. Still shaken, she vehemently declared her intention to sever all ties with the Secret Service, demanding her payment. Lin Nansheng apologized for the danger she faced and promised to deliver her money soon. Meanwhile, Zuo Qiuming individually addressed Ikeda and Takahashi's questions.

He explained that this incident was a "screening" process to verify the Japanese side's identity for commercial cooperation, as his organization, operating under Director Zhou from Nanjing's Low Profile Club, only collaborated with the Japanese Army. This was necessitated by a past deception involving a "Hattori" from the South Manchuria Railway branch who had falsely claimed to be from the Army.

Zuo Qiuming’s logical and flawless explanation, coupled with the fact that the confiscated camera contained a swapped, blank film, convinced Ikeda and Takahashi. They released Lan Xinjie and accepted Zuo Qiuming's explanation as a resolved misunderstanding, toasting to future cooperation. Gu Shenyan had worked through the night to compile intelligence on Ikeda, planning to report to Wang Shi'an.

However, Lin Nansheng was the first to present developed photos, which confirmed Ikeda's true identity as a Japanese spy engaged in coastal mapping, a clear preparation for war. Gu Shenyan then shared his own intelligence, revealing Ikeda's background as a former assistant to Kenji Doihara and a notorious intelligence leader responsible for the deaths of four Secret Service agents. Wang Shi'an was elated with the conclusive evidence, seeing an opportunity for a significant report to headquarters.

Wang Shi'an then had a private conversation with Gu Shenyan, expressing his strong desire to keep Lin Nansheng in Shanghai. He cited Lin Nansheng's exceptional intelligence-gathering skills and his current excellent performance, arguing that despite his past misconduct in the Wang Zhi case, the current wartime situation demanded talented agents. Wang also wanted to avoid being seen as heartless for discarding Chen Moqun's man now that Chen was out of the picture.

He believed that if properly cultivated, Lin Nansheng could become a valuable asset for the Shanghai branch. Gu Shenyan, understanding Wang Shi'an's intentions, agreed and proposed assigning Lin Nansheng to the operation squad as a group leader, acknowledging his significant contributions to the Ikeda investigation. Gu Shenyan later met with Lin Nansheng, questioning his strong desire to remain in Shanghai and his initiative in the Ikeda investigation.

Lin Nansheng explained that he believed Shanghai was the frontline of resistance and that if the nation was in peril, a teacher could not contribute meaningfully or teach in peace. He passionately declared his resolve to fight against the invaders to protect Chinese children from being forced to learn Japanese. Impressed by his conviction, Gu Shenyan returned Lin Nansheng's service pistol, reminding him to act cautiously in the future.

Lin Nansheng was then officially appointed as the group leader of the Fifth Group in the Second Company by Hu Daoyi. A new recruit in his group, Zhao Jinglong, promptly introduced himself and offered assistance, making a favorable first impression. Nanjing Headquarters issued orders to eliminate Ikeda swiftly but without providing Japan with any pretext for war. Lin Nansheng presented a detailed plan: since Ikeda was still mapping the coast, he would likely visit a specific area again.

Lin Nansheng proposed creating a fake car accident on a narrow, sloping dirt road in that area. To ensure Ikeda's car took the designated route, they would set up a fake road construction to divert traffic. A hidden trap, covered with dirt, would then cause his car to flip, making his death appear accidental. He emphasized that no firearms were to be used, and the scene would be restored afterward to avoid suspicion.

Wang Shi'an entrusted Gu Shenyan to lead the operation, instructing him to photograph Ikeda's body for headquarters. The operation commenced, with agents disguising themselves as construction workers to direct Ikeda's car onto the planned route. The trap was sprung, sending Ikeda's vehicle tumbling down the slope. However, Ikeda survived the crash and, emerging from the wreckage, seized Lin Nansheng at gunpoint when he approached to check.

Gu Shenyan, maintaining his composure, engaged Ikeda in a tense standoff, offering himself as a hostage. This distraction allowed Gu Shenyan and Lin Nansheng to secretly collaborate, subduing Ikeda. In the struggle, Ikeda was killed by a shard of glass that severed his carotid artery. Shortly after, Takahashi and his men arrived to investigate. Gu Shenyan's subordinate explained that Ikeda likely died trying to escape the wreckage, with glass shards severing his artery, leading to extreme blood loss and shock.

They presented evidence of the dangerous road conditions and previous accidents at that exact spot, making Ikeda's death appear to be a genuine car crash. Takahashi, after inspecting the scene and finding Ikeda's handgun fully loaded, accepted the official explanation. After the mission, Lin Nansheng thanked Gu Shenyan for his critical intervention. He then collected the gold bars for the peripheral agents, adding his own share for Lan Xinjie.

However, she firmly refused his portion, reaffirming her desire to be free from Secret Service involvement and asserting she would soon be a major's wife, no longer risking her life for them. Later, Gu Shenyan met with Ji Zhongyuan in a park. Gu Shenyan informed him that Lin Nansheng would remain in Shanghai, assigned to the operation squad, a decision strongly influenced by Wang Shi'an's recognition of Lin Nansheng's capabilities and the need for more manpower.

Gu Shenyan acknowledged that while Lin Nansheng, a former operative of Chen Moqun, might not currently pose a direct threat with Chen Moqun sidelined, his strong anti-Japanese sentiment and latent potential as a secret agent were noteworthy. Gu Shenyan also recalled an earlier incident where Lin Nansheng subtly aided Zhu Yizhen's release by removing a radio coil. Gu Shenyan expressed his intention to further observe and potentially recruit Lin Nansheng for the Communist Party.

Ji Zhongyuan, in turn, cautioned Gu Shenyan about Wang Shi'an's covert use of Lin Nansheng in the Ikeda assassination and warned him to be vigilant about his own safety given the escalating tensions in Shanghai and Gu Shenyan's unique identity. Finally, Lin Nansheng drove to the pier to bid farewell to Zuo Qiuming, who was departing on a ship.

Zuo Qiuming encouraged Lin Nansheng to continue his efforts, reminding him that if they walked the same path, they would meet again. As a parting gift, Zuo Qiuming returned the miniature camera, informing Lin Nansheng that he had cleared it with their station, to which Lin Nansheng responded that he had been waiting for it. After Zuo Qiuming's departure, Lin Nansheng looked at the camera in his car, a knowing smile on his face.

For their exceptional contributions in the Ikeda case, Gu Shenyan and Lin Nansheng were later awarded the Order of Precious Tripod with Special Cravat, while Zhao Jinglong received the Order of Precious Tripod with Special Rosette.

Following the successful elimination of the Japanese spy Ikeda Eisuke, Wang Shi'an commended Gu Shenyan, Lin Nansheng, and Zhao Jinglong, awarding them medals. Lin Nansheng was formally retained in the Shanghai Secret Service Action Team, undertaking numerous missions and evolving into a seasoned agent. On August 13, 1937, the Battle of Shanghai erupted. Despite the Chinese army's tenacious fight against superior Japanese firepower and immense sacrifices, Shanghai fell three months later, on November 12.

With the exception of the British, American, and French Concessions, the entire city was occupied by the Japanese. The Secret Service was subsequently reorganized as the Military Intelligence Bureau, which then shifted into a dormant state. By the winter of 1939, the Chinese Communist Party's underground organization faced severe challenges. Numerous contact points were raided by the Japanese Special Higher Police. Although some radio stations were salvaged, their operators tragically perished.

Colonel Takahashi was displeased with his subordinates' impulsive actions, particularly their failure to capture anyone alive during a raid on a Communist radio station. He sternly reminded them that he was looking for the people behind the radio, not just the equipment, particularly "Fisherman," the head of the Communists' underground intelligence network in Shanghai. This specific radio station was a major lead, now lost due to their recklessness.

He ordered them to aggressively pursue Fisherman's new radio station amidst the thousands of commercial radios in Shanghai. Furthermore, Takahashi was enraged that his unit also failed to capture any agents from the Military Intelligence Bureau during a siege, with only two escaping and the rest killed. In the midst of this, Ji Zhongyuan met with Gu Shenyan.

Ji informed Gu that their transmitting site had been busted by the Special Higher Police, the transmitter seized, and the radio operator killed. This brought their losses to seven comrades in three months. Gu secretly passed a dossier, hidden in a book, to Ji, revealing information about Longhua Airport. He explained that a Japanese military bomber squadron was stationed there, continuously bombing the Xiaoshan front line, causing heavy casualties among military and civilians.

Gu urged Ji to swiftly notify the New Fourth Army Songhu Detachment to destroy the airport. Ji acknowledged the difficulty of attacking such a heavily guarded military airport but assured Gu their liaison would be dispatched immediately to notify the detachment. He also mentioned that while a new radio operator had arrived, bringing a new transmitter into Shanghai was proving difficult, a problem Gu promised to resolve. After their conversation, both men departed from the park separately to avoid suspicion.

Meanwhile, Lin Nansheng and Zhao Jinglong were ambushed during an operation targeting a traitor, Hu Daoyi, who had defected to Jessfield 76. Many of their comrades were killed. Lin, himself injured, shot Hu Daoyi in the leg but believed he was still alive. Lin hid a severely wounded Zhao in a corner, then drew the Japanese away, ultimately escaping into a civilian area, changing into plain clothes, and concealing his wound before returning to the Military Intelligence Bureau.

Upon his return to the Hua Hsing Cie, the Bureau's cover in the French Concession (secured through bribes to French police), Lin Nansheng, now the Action Captain after Hu Daoyi's defection, confronted Wang Shi'an. He demanded accountability for their fallen brothers, expressing his anger over the ambush and the lack of compensation for their families.

Wang, dismissive of Lin's rising temper, expressed concern about information leaks, noting that only he, Wang, and the higher authority knew about the operation, suggesting either a mole within the station or a compromised code. He ordered a suspension of all transmissions and the activation of a new code book for emergencies.

Wang also noted that the Pudong Detachment of the Loyal Salvation Army, initially tasked with the airport destruction mission, was delaying and constantly requesting gun supplies, leading him to suspect mutiny. He told Lin that he was following up on the gun supplies for the Pudong Detachment, which were difficult to transport through the Japanese war zone, and would inform them once they arrived. Facing severe losses and the Japanese army's aggressive attacks, Wang Shi'an sought Gu Shenyan's counsel.

He revealed his intention to collaborate with the Communists, leveraging their extensive underground experience and intelligence network in Shanghai to aid the Military Intelligence Bureau. Gu, while inwardly disapproving of Wang's opportunistic idea of using the Communists as a shield, outwardly praised his strategic brilliance. Wang proposed Lin Nansheng as the liaison, citing his past experience in infiltration and his leadership of the action squad, believing Lin would be capable of handling the Communists and potentially even baiting their representative.

Around the same time, Mr. Dai, dissatisfied with Wang Shi'an's incompetence and the heavy losses in Shanghai, dispatched Deputy Director Zhou Yaoting to the Special Training Program in Nanjing to persuade Chen Moqun to return. Chen, who had been teaching, initially feigned disinterest, stating his desire to focus on cultivating talents for the party-state and even to resign his title to avoid meetings.

Zhou explained that Mr. Dai had personally wanted to come but was preoccupied and apologized for the past events in Shanghai, acknowledging Chen's resentment. He stressed that the situation in Shanghai was dire due to Wang Shi'an's poor performance, which had led to many veterans defecting to the Japanese, greatly upsetting the Principal. Chen, acknowledging Zhou's explanation and the critical situation, agreed to return as the Beijing-Shanghai District Mayor and was promoted to Major General.

However, he laid down two conditions: first, he would have sole authority over appointments to important positions, with no interference from headquarters; second, he required a stop in Hong Kong for personal business before heading to Shanghai. Zhou agreed to his terms. Gu Shenyan later informed Lin Nansheng of Wang Shi'an's decision to collaborate with the Communists and that Lin was assigned as the liaison. Lin accepted the assignment, awaiting further instructions on the meeting details.

Following his past directive from Chen Moqun to monitor Gu Shenyan, Lin reviewed the General Affairs Section's records while collecting bullets. He discovered that Gu Shenyan had personally signed out a transmitter for the Pudong Detachment. Meanwhile, Ji Zhongyuan discussed the proposed contact with the Military Intelligence Bureau. He expressed concern about Lin Nansheng as the liaison, finding him to be a complex individual.

While acknowledging Lin's patriotic enthusiasm, Ji noted that Lin remained fundamentally a Military Intelligence agent who had previously attempted to infiltrate their ranks, making him untrustworthy. Gu Shenyan, however, believed Lin was a conscientious and patriotic young man worth winning over, but admitted that Lin still harbored suspicions about his own identity, necessitating extreme caution in their dealings.

Unbeknownst to Lin, Wang Shi'an, having received the telegram about Chen Moqun's imminent return as the Beijing-Shanghai District Mayor, feared being targeted due to his past failures. He instructed Section Chief Lu to convert the "freeloading allowances" falsely claimed in the name of the defunct 5th Communication Group into gold bars on the black market, keeping 80% for himself, ensuring no one else knew about the ledger. Later, Lin Nansheng visited the recuperating Zhao Jinglong.

Observing Zhao's pregnant wife, Qin Qin, Lin gave Zhao a substantial sum of his own savings (not a station pension, as none had been issued yet) to distribute to the families of their fallen brothers, emphasizing their mutual support. Zhao initially tried to refuse, but Lin insisted, reminding him of his impending child and future needs. On his way back, Lin passed a group of students, and the sight stirred memories of Zhu Yizhen.

Elsewhere, Zhu Yizhen had returned to Shanghai as the core intelligence officer for the Jiangsu Provincial Committee. Meeting with Ji Zhongyuan at a calligraphy mounting shop, she was informed that Lin Nansheng was the Military Intelligence Bureau's chosen liaison for their proposed collaboration. Ji initially suggested Wang Yunwei for the meeting, but Zhu, believing Wang Yunwei too young and inexperienced to handle Lin, volunteered to go herself.

She asserted that she was "immune" to Lin Nansheng and could calmly manage the risks, ensuring no other comrades would be implicated. Ji, trusting her judgment, agreed to entrust the task to her.

Kuang Huidong, a lieutenant with the Kuomintang's 74th Army, 51st Division, was officially declared dead in Gao'an, Ganbei. Having recently graduated from a German military academy, he was given a new identity as Meng Annan, tasked with infiltrating a left-leaning news agency in Hong Kong to establish contact with and eventually penetrate the Communist Party's core. Chen Moqun met with Meng Annan in Hong Kong, first inquiring with Station Chief Ren about Zhu Xiaoxian and his daughter Zhu Yizhen.

Ren confirmed Zhu Xiaoxian maintained a low profile but stated Zhu Yizhen had never been to Hong Kong. Chen Moqun then brought Meng Annan to a new residence, tearing up his military academy certificate to signify the end of his old identity. He explained that Kuang Huidong was officially dead, and Meng Annan was his new name, along with new identity documents.

Chen Moqun assigned him the mission to infiltrate the left-leaning financial news agency, starting as an ordinary journalist or editor, and adopting a left-leaning persona to achieve his goal. Chen Moqun outlined their future communication methods, using code words in "Missing Persons" columns in specific newspapers. He also gave Meng Annan a unique Titoni watch without a second hand, stipulating that if he were ever gone, whoever presented this watch, which stopped at 4:12 p. m.

, would be Meng Annan's new superior, to be obeyed unconditionally. Meng Annan, deeply grateful for Chen Moqun's patronage that allowed him to study in Berlin, pledged his unwavering loyalty.

Meanwhile, Wang Shi'an, wary of Chen Moqun's impending return to Shanghai, used a public telephone booth in the British and American enclaves to anonymously inform the Japanese Kempeitai about Chen Moqun's travel details: he would arrive in Shanghai on the 23rd aboard the British passenger ship, Mao Sheng, from Hong Kong. The Japanese intelligence confirmed the call and recognized it as an attempt by someone within the Kuomintang to eliminate Chen Moqun.

They decided to intercept and capture him alive, assigning agents in Hong Kong to tail him. Simultaneously, news spread rapidly about a night raid on Longhua Airport, widely attributed to the Pudong Detachment of the Loyal Salvation Army, which reportedly resulted in dozens of Japanese casualties and ten destroyed planes. However, the attack was actually carried out by the Communist Party, posing as the Pudong Detachment.

Chongqing headquarters commended the Shanghai station, and Station Chief Wang Shi'an, unaware of the deception, expressed great satisfaction, applying for a lump sum reward for the detachment. Lin Nansheng, skeptical of the reports, met secretly with Wang Shuigen, a signaller from the Pudong Detachment. Wang Shuigen revealed that their detachment had not received any new high-power radios or requested firearms, and moreover, they were not responsible for the Longhua Airport attack.

This information led Lin Nansheng to suspect that Gu Shenyan had privately obtained a radio and firearms, only to transfer them elsewhere. When Lin Nansheng reported this to Gu Shenyan and inquired about a radio that Gu Shenyan had acquired for the detachment, Gu Shenyan casually dismissed it, claiming the radio was lost during a Japanese checkpoint raid at Zhangjiabang and its damage reported.

He advised Lin Nansheng not to make judgments regarding the Longhua Airport incident until the truth was verified, especially since the Pudong Detachment had been honored. Gu Shenyan later provided Lin Nansheng with a letter containing the venue and code word for a meeting with a Communist Party contact, along with a pocket watch as a token. The meeting was arranged at Le Cancoll café, where Lin Nansheng ordered two café au laits with sugar.

To his surprise, the Communist contact was Zhu Yizhen, holding a copy of the "Shanghai Evening Post and Mercury." He greeted her, exchanging code words, and then introduced himself as Lin Nansheng from the Military Intelligence Bureau, proposing intelligence sharing and offering to install a radio to receive messages from their side.

Zhu Yizhen immediately cut him off, questioning how the Kuomintang could ask for intelligence sharing while simultaneously killing the Eighth Route Army in the North and encircling the New Fourth Army in Shanghai. She stated firmly that they would not share intelligence but accepted the notebook containing Lin Nansheng's proposals for her superior's consideration.

The arrival of the café au laits reminded them of their shared past, but Zhu Yizhen maintained her composure, abruptly ending the meeting and stating there would be no "next time" to prevent others from falling into a "trap." She then left in a rickshaw, struggling to suppress her emotions, eventually finding a secluded alley where she broke down and cried. Back at the station, Lin Nansheng reported to Wang Shi'an and Gu Shenyan.

He downplayed the Communist contact, describing him as an "ordinary young man" whose stance he couldn't discern, and stated that the notebook was taken for superior's instructions. Gu Shenyan expressed subtle doubt about the contact being "ordinary." Meanwhile, Japanese intelligence, led by Takahashi Senbei, analyzed intercepted telegrams containing the codeword "Board," which referred to their 13th Division's operations against the New Fourth Army. They concluded that the "fisherman's" radio was active again and dispatched direction-finding lorries to locate it.

Ji Zhongyuan, aware of the Japanese reconnaissance, urgently warned Zhu Yizhen, who was mid-transmission, to stop immediately and move the radio, even though sending a half-written telegram would worry their superior. Wang Shi'an convened a meeting to announce Chen Moqun's return to Shanghai as the Beijing-Shanghai District Chief, overseeing three stations and the Loyal Salvation Army.

His accountant, who helped him with illicit activities, expressed panic about Chen Moqun's return, fearing exposure and execution, particularly concerning the misused pensions of the 5th Communications Group. Wang Shi'an was also aware of these concerns, especially since he had previously converted the pensions of the 5th Communications Group, who died during the August 13 Incident, into gold bars for his personal use. Wang Shi'an dismissed the accountant's concerns, advising him to focus on his work.

Lin Nansheng volunteered to pick up Chen Moqun at Kinlee Yuan Wharf. Upon arrival, a large contingent of Japanese military police swarmed the dock and boarded the ship. The Japanese agents in Hong Kong, who had been tailing Chen Moqun, reported he should have been secured by then. Chen Moqun attempted to evade capture by changing into a crew member's uniform, but the sheer number of Japanese soldiers made escape impossible, and he was arrested on board the ship.

Lin Nansheng, having witnessed Chen Moqun's arrest, returned to the station in a fury, confronting Wang Shi'an and accusing an internal member of betraying Chen Moqun's whereabouts. Wang Shi'an, feeling implicated, angrily rebuked Lin Nansheng for making wild assumptions and doubting the entire station, including himself, given that everyone knew Chen Moqun's itinerary. Gu Shenyan intervened, attempting to mediate by suggesting that information could have leaked from Chongqing or Hong Kong.

Wang Shi'an, however, dismissed Lin Nansheng's suspicions and emphasized the seriousness of the situation, immediately sending a telegram to Chongqing headquarters to report Chen Moqun's capture, recognizing the need for swift action rather than internal investigation at that moment.

Lin Nansheng believed Chen Moqun had been betrayed and was deeply concerned for his safety, urging immediate rescue. However, Wang Shi'an deliberately delayed, claiming he had exhausted all contacts, but none were willing to intervene with the Japanese military police. He suggested they wait and observe Chen Moqun's movements within the gendarmerie.

Gu Shenyan cautioned that it was not the time to investigate the underlying cause, but Lin Nansheng questioned if this was to avoid finding the truth, insisting that someone wanted Chen Moqun dead and prevented him from returning to Shanghai. Wang Shi'an then reported Chen Moqun's arrest to Commissioner Dai. Desperate to relay information, Gu Shenyan quickly published a coded personal advertisement in the newspaper to arrange a meeting with Ji Zhongyuan.

Gu Shenyan shared the news of Chen Moqun's arrest and expressed his fear of defection, advising Ji Zhongyuan to prepare for the worst. Ji Zhongyuan revealed his concerns about the Pudong Detachment possibly aligning with the puppet government. He recounted how the New Fourth Army's Songhu Detachment was ambushed by Military Intelligence's Pudong Detachment after their attack on Longhua Airport.

He pointed out that the Pudong Detachment's captain was Chen Moqun's former secretary, who had been marginalized by Wang Shi'an, and confirmed their contact with the puppet government, seeking positions and salaries. Gu Shenyan determined he must make Wang Shi'an aware of the seriousness of the situation to initiate an investigation into the Pudong Detachment. At the Japanese Military Police Command, Chen Moqun remained calm and composed.

Colonel Takahashi Senbei treated him as an honored guest, offering a fresh suit and pastries, hoping to recruit the veteran Military Intelligence Bureau agent. Chen Moqun tasted the tea but preferred his hometown's spring tea, dismissing Takahashi's tea as "specious" and destined for mediocrity. He clearly stated they were on different paths. Takahashi attempted to sway Chen Moqun by highlighting his past marginalization, suggesting they could offer him appreciation and a place to contribute to the Chinese people.

After failing to persuade him, Takahashi ordered Chen Moqun's release. He explained to his subordinate that the "friend" who had tipped them off about Chen Moqun's travel route likely wanted him gone, and this situation would force that person to take further action. Late that night, Lin Nansheng secretly interrogated a cook from the Japanese Military Police Command. He learned that Chen Moqun was alive, not tortured, and had been served good food, indicating he was being treated well.

Lin Nansheng warned the cook not to reveal their conversation. Simultaneously, the main liaison station of the Nationalist Loyal Salvation Army in Shanghai was bombed by the Japanese. Wang Shi'an received news of the bombing and immediately suspected Chen Moqun, given the timing. He ordered the incident to be reported to Chongqing and increased security at the station. The next day, Chen Moqun appeared at a Military Intelligence Bureau contact point.

He asked for a gun for self-defense and specifically requested Lin Nansheng to meet him alone at Room 204 of the Hengyuan Hotel in the French Concession. He mentioned that Chongqing had sent him back for security reasons, without revealing the station's exact address, and alluded to an "incident" upon his arrival. Upon hearing Chen Moqun was safe, Lin Nansheng was eager to go, despite Wang Shi'an's suspicion about why the Japanese had released him and fear of a trap.

Wang Shi'an scolded Lin Nansheng for his impulsiveness, but Gu Shenyan suggested bringing Chen Moqun back first and offered to accompany Lin Nansheng with a few men, arguing that the French Concession wasn't entirely safe. Wang Shi'an agreed, but secretly called an agent, ordering him to go with Lin Nansheng and "kill him" if there was any problem.

He then sent an urgent telegram to Chongqing, stating Chen Moqun was released unharmed, implying he had betrayed the Loyal Salvation Army, and requested immediate instructions. At the Hengyuan Hotel, Chen Moqun saw Lin Nansheng arrive with other agents and appeared disappointed, having specifically asked him to come alone. Lin Nansheng explained he brought men for Chen Moqun's safety. Lin Nansheng entered the room alone, placing his gun on the table to show he meant no harm.

He informed Chen Moqun that Wang Shi'an had reported his situation to Chongqing. Chen Moqun confirmed his travel route was top secret, yet Japanese agents had tracked him from Hong Kong and arrested him before he disembarked, leading him to conclude he had been betrayed. Lin Nansheng then revealed the Loyal Salvation Army's main liaison station had been bombed the previous night.

Chen Moqun realized he was being framed and felt he would be unable to clear his name, especially with the bombing. Lin Nansheng pleaded with him to return, believing he could explain his innocence, but Chen Moqun questioned what guarantees Lin Nansheng, a mere captain, could offer against someone determined to harm him. An agent outside called Lin Nansheng for an "emergency."

As Lin Nansheng stepped out to take the call, other agents stormed the room, attempting to kill Chen Moqun. Chen Moqun quickly returned fire and escaped through a window. Lin Nansheng, realizing the ambush, ordered his own men to retreat to avoid involving the local police. He pursued Chen Moqun, demanding he return and explain. Chen Moqun confronted Lin Nansheng, asking who ordered his death.

Lin Nansheng swore he was only ordered to bring him back and knew nothing of the shooting order. Still feeling there was no way back for him, Chen Moqun refused to return and fired a warning shot at the pursuing Gu Shenyan to emphasize his resolve before disappearing into the streets. Lin Nansheng returned to the station to report to Wang Shi'an. Wang Shi'an furiously chastised him for speaking to Chen Moqun alone and failing to bring him back.

Lin Nansheng reported Chen Moqun's denial of involvement in the bombing and his belief that he had been betrayed by an insider. Wang Shi'an scoffed at this, then produced an execution order from Chongqing headquarters for "Traitor Chen Moqun," authorizing immediate execution without prior approval. Lin Nansheng was aghast, calling the decision irresponsible given the lack of clear investigation and criticizing Chongqing for it.

Enraged, Wang Shi'an accused Lin Nansheng of doubting both the Shanghai section and Chongqing, then ordered Lin Nansheng's gun confiscated, his captain post dismissed, and him confined for insubordination. Gu Shenyan attempted to intervene, but Wang Shi'an asserted his authority. Lin Nansheng defiantly declared that if Chen Moqun was indeed betrayed, he would uncover the truth, asserting that betraying a comrade was more despicable than being a traitor.

Fearing retaliation from Chen Moqun, Wang Shi'an immediately ordered an increase in security, doubling guards, weapons, and ammunition at his firm, and assigning two bodyguards to accompany him at all times outside the building.

Chen Moqun, now with no other recourse, sought out Takahashi Senbei, offering the intelligence he possessed. He disclosed details about secret contact points of both the Kuomintang (KMT) and Communist Party (CCP) in Beiping, Qingdao, and Tianjin. Takahashi welcomed him, and Chen Moqun specifically revealed that Beiping's Military Intelligence Bureau Radio Station 001 was located at No. 7, Ganmian Hutong, specifying the first house on the left, owned by Li Li Ming, who lived with two cousins.

He explained a vase code: below the window meant occupied, by the window meant vacant. For Qingdao, he identified Du Geng, a teacher at Huide Girls' Middle School, and his wife Xie Xiu Juan, as Military Intelligence Bureau agents who had been sending intelligence about Japanese force deployments to Chongqing since 1938. Takahashi was satisfied but made it clear he was more interested in information about Shanghai and the Communists. Chen Moqun assured him he knew even more about Shanghai.

Impressed, Takahashi promised him a rank higher than his previous one and a position as Director of the Central Committee in Wang Jing Wei's upcoming puppet government. Following this, Japanese forces, using Chen Moqun's intelligence, swiftly dismantled the Military Intelligence Bureau strongholds in Beiping and Qingdao. Takahashi then arranged for a photograph with Chen Moqun, which was published in a newspaper, publicly confirming his defection. Meanwhile, Lin Nansheng remained in confinement.

Zhao Jinglong, having recovered from his injuries, visited Lin Nansheng and shared the shocking news of Chen Moqun's betrayal, showing him a newspaper article. Lin Nansheng was deeply distraught, almost collapsing. Zhao Jinglong also reported that the Military Intelligence Bureau's Wuning Road contact point had been destroyed, and their liaison had attempted suicide to protect documents but was gunned down along with his family and children by the Japanese.

Gu Shenyan, suspecting the Pudong Detachment of the Loyal Salvation Army was planning to defect, approached Wang Shi'an, actively advising against providing them with more firearms and ammunition. He pointed out their unusually high demand for firearms and supplies despite a lack of recent operations. Wang Shi'an, preoccupied with the fallout from Chen Moqun's defection, dismissed Gu Shenyan's concerns, demanding solid evidence before he would consider an investigation.

Undeterred, Gu Shenyan met with Ji Zhongyuan, reiterating his suspicions about the Pudong Detachment and explaining that Wang Shi'an was unwilling to act. He instructed Ji Zhongyuan to intercept the coming batch of supplies, convinced the detachment would defect once they had the arms. Ji Zhongyuan later successfully posed as a representative for the usual buyer to collect the arms and ammunition.

Wang Shi'an convened a meeting to relay an urgent order from the Chongqing Headquarters: assassinate Major General Uemura Netto, deputy chief of Garrison Command of the China Expeditionary Army, at all costs. Wang Shi'an explained that Uemura Netto, notorious for his involvement in the 1937 Nanjing massacre, typically maintained a low profile, making his planned appearance at the upcoming celebration for Wang Jing Wei's puppet government in Shanghai the ideal opportunity. He assigned Gu Shenyan to lead the mission.

Gu Shenyan reported that intelligence indicated Uemura Netto would fly to Shanghai and then take a private car to a military post. Assassination would be exceedingly difficult once he reached the city or the celebration venue. The only viable window would be during his journey from the airport to the city. However, the Japanese Army controlled the route with sentries every 200 meters, ruling out planted explosives. An ambush using grenade launchers was suggested.

Gu Shenyan expressed deep concern that Chen Moqun, being intimately familiar with the Military Intelligence Bureau's methods and personnel, would easily anticipate their plans. Concurrently, Chen Moqun settled into his new role. Hu Daoyi, now director of the intelligence department, visited Chen Moqun, showering him with gifts and celebrating his defection.

He also revealed that Wang Shi'an had made his life difficult after Chen Moqun's transfer to Nanjing, even accusing him of desertion after Hu Daoyi's men were annihilated while bombing a Japanese airport during the August 13 incident. Chen Moqun was later summoned by Takahashi Senbei. While waiting, he was surrounded by Japanese officers speaking a language he didn't understand, prompting Takahashi to suggest he learn Japanese.

Takahashi assigned Chen Moqun the critical task of ensuring General Uemura Netto's safety during the celebration. Chen Moqun requested Uemura Netto's exact schedule, the number of his bodyguards, and the weather forecast to formulate his security plans. Takahashi also informed Chen Moqun about a Communist radio station discovered in the central north part of the Nanshi District, believed to be operated by "Fisherman" of the Jiangsu Provincial Party Committee.

Chen Moqun acknowledged "Fisherman" as a highly mysterious leader of the Communist underground intelligence network, admitting he only knew of his reputation, not his identity. Takahashi tasked Chen Moqun with locating this crucial radio station. During a discussion about the Uemura Netto assassination, Gu Shenyan reiterated his concern that Chen Moqun's knowledge of the Military Intelligence Bureau's agents would make any plan vulnerable. He subtly advocated for Lin Nansheng's release, emphasizing his loyalty and capabilities as a potentially invaluable asset.

Wang Shi'an, however, dismissed the suggestion, accusing Gu Shenyan of defending the person responsible for Chen Moqun's escape and warning him of potential repercussions. Wang Shi'an then turned his attention to finding someone close to Chen Moqun who could provide information. He found Lan Xinjie's name on a list. He recalled her past as a peripheral agent who helped in Eisuke Ikeda's assassination and noted her long-standing acquaintance with Chen Moqun.

He also knew her husband, a second lieutenant in the 87th Division, had died in the 1937 Nanjing battle, leaving her to raise their son alone. Wang Shi'an visited Lan Xinjie at her home, bringing gifts like biscuits, milk powder, and chocolate. After polite conversation, he directly asked her to gather intelligence on Chen Moqun.

When she questioned why she was chosen, he pressured her, first with flattery about her intelligence, then by implying she was not receiving due compensation as a deceased soldier's family member, and finally by appealing to her desire for her son's well-being, offering financial aid for a better home and kindergarten in the French Concession. Reluctantly, Lan Xinjie agreed, but on the condition that she and her son be safely relocated to Chongqing after the mission.

Wang Shi'an accepted her terms. Meanwhile, Zhu Yizhen found and rented a suitable house in the French Concession to establish a new radio station for the party. Chen Moqun, assisting Takahashi with radio monitoring, detected a brief transmission from a Communist radio. Although he couldn't pinpoint the exact location due to the short duration of the signal, he confirmed it originated from Avenue Petain in the French Concession.

Takahashi was informed that "Fisherman's" radio had moved from Nanshi District but expressed confidence that Chen Moqun would eventually locate it. Gu Shenyan visited Lin Nansheng in his confinement cell, observing his profoundly dejected state. Lin Nansheng acknowledged Chen Moqun's defection and admitted his misjudgment, accepting his punishment for letting Chen Moqun escape. Gu Shenyan, drawing from his own long service since joining the Huangpu Military Academy in 1925, expressed understanding for Lin Nansheng's inner turmoil.

He explained that Lin Nansheng wasn't merely grieving Chen Moqun's defection but was grappling with hesitation and profound doubt, questioning his faith and fearing his sacrifices might be in vain. Gu Shenyan reassured Lin Nansheng that his initial patriotic sentiment to defend the nation was fundamentally correct. He urged Lin Nansheng not to anchor his faith in any individual but to forge it through continuous struggle and practical action.

Gu Shenyan, who had observed Lin Nansheng closely, harbored intentions of recruiting him into the Party. Expressing his concern for Lin Nansheng's disheartened state, Gu Shenyan encouraged him to regain his composure and find a way out of confinement to continue serving the country and its people. Lin Nansheng affirmed that he would show no mercy to traitors. Later, Lan Xinjie met Chen Moqun at the Jindie Dance Hall. They exchanged brief greetings, acknowledging the long time since their last encounter. Chen Moqun, however, remained visibly cautious.

Following an earlier forced agreement, Lan Xinjie met with Chen Moqun. He was notably more guarded than when he served as a military intelligence station chief, making it difficult for her to get close, and their interaction remained superficial. Zhao Jinglong observed their meeting from outside and secretly photographed the entire encounter. The next morning, Wang Shui Gen urgently sought out Zhao Jinglong, informing him that the Pudong Detachment and Hunan Detachment had collectively defected to Wang's pseudo-government.

Wang Shui Gen revealed that many members who refused to betray their allegiance were brutally killed in a shootout, and he was the sole survivor who managed to escape. Shocked by the news, Zhao Jinglong immediately reported the situation to Wang Shi'an. Enraged by this sudden and significant defection, Wang Shi'an suspected Chen Moqun's involvement. He then ordered Gu Shenyan to expedite the assassination of Uemura Netto, viewing it as their only chance to salvage the Shanghai division's reputation.

Wang Shi'an also noted a recent telegram indicating strong winds, which would necessitate moving their attack point 200 meters closer, putting the operatives in extreme danger, but he insisted they had no other choice. However, Chen Moqun, leveraging his intimate knowledge of the Military Intelligence Bureau's operations, anticipated their move and set up an ambush.

The assassination team suffered heavy casualties, and had Gu Shenyan not ordered a timely retreat, Zhao Jinglong, who was part of the mission, believed none of them would have returned. Upon learning of the mission's failure and seeing a newspaper headline about the Pudong Detachment's defection, Lin Nansheng, still in confinement, angrily left his cell.

He confronted Wang Shi'an, who was discussing the mission failure with his officers, requesting permission to carry out the assassination of Uemura Netto at the upcoming celebration ceremony. Wang Shi'an initially chastised Lin Nansheng for leaving confinement and blamed him for Chen Moqun's escape, which he believed led to the Japanese knowing their plans. Despite Wang Shi'an's initial refusal, citing the celebration's extraordinary security, Lin Nansheng declared his unwavering resolve, vowing not to leave the venue alive if he failed.

Seeing this as a solemn pledge, Wang Shi'an eventually agreed to Lin Nansheng's request, promising him full credit if he succeeded. Meanwhile, Ji Zhongyuan convened with Zhu Yizhen and Wang Yunwei to finalize their own plan for Uemura Netto's assassination. He emphasized that Uemura Netto's history as a butcher, responsible for massacres, made his appearance at the Broadway Mansions celebration a "golden opportunity."

Ji Zhongyuan explained there were two infiltration methods, and only Zhu Yizhen and Wang Yunwei were suitable for the perilous mission. Ji Zhongyuan arranged to transport necessary items into the venue's kitchen under the guise of a delivery, while Wang Yunwei would blend in with the performers. Zhu Yizhen, on the other hand, would use a forged female employee pass to enter the venue as a staff member.

On the day of the celebration, Lin Nansheng and Zhao Jinglong, posing as naval officers Hao Bin and Gao Zhi Li using stolen invitations, and Zhu Yizhen, entering with a staff pass marked for "Health Inspection," infiltrated the venue, each seeking an opportunity to strike. Lin Nansheng and Zhao Jinglong had hidden their pistols in their hats to bypass security, while Zhu Yizhen retrieved her pistol from food supplies in the kitchen.

Shortly after their entry, Hu Daoyi reported to Chen Moqun that two naval officers' bodies were discovered nearby, raising suspicion about the identity thieves inside the venue. Zhu Yizhen used her "health inspection" role to access the kitchen, where she retrieved a hidden gun from the food supplies. As the celebration progressed, an announcer welcomed guests and introduced a university student choir.

After their performance, Uemura Netto, identified as a senior military adviser and deputy chief of staff, stepped onto the stage to deliver a speech. Just as Uemura Netto began addressing the attendees, Hu Daoyi spotted Lin Nansheng on the second floor and shouted his name, drawing attention to an anomaly and plunging the venue into chaos. Lin Nansheng engaged in a fierce fight with Japanese military police.

Amid the confusion, Wang Yunwei managed to shoot and kill Uemura Netto but was immediately gunned down himself. Ignoring her personal grief over Wang Yunwei's sacrifice, Zhu Yizhen prioritized saving Lin Nansheng, who was being cornered by Japanese forces. She led him to a secluded conference room, where she provided him with a change of clothes.

Inside, Lin Nansheng proposed a desperate escape plan, offering to cover Zhu Yizhen while she made her getaway, and even giving her a small gun to use for a quick end if captured, urging her to live. They then deployed a rope from the window, creating a diversion to make it appear as though they had already escaped the building.

Chen Moqun, arriving at the conference room, noted the rope hanging outside and assumed they had fled, briefly checking the cabinets before ordering a broader search of the streets. Outside the venue, Zhao Jinglong used a public telephone to inform the station that Uemura Netto was dead but Lin Nansheng might be trapped. Wang Shi'an expressed satisfaction over the mission's success but showed little concern for Lin Nansheng's fate, stating his survival depended on his own luck.

Gu Shenyan, however, was visibly worried and began devising a rescue plan overnight. Trapped in the conference room overnight, Lin Nansheng thanked Zhu Yizhen for saving his life. She responded that she did so because they were both Chinese, fighting against the Japanese. Zhu Yizhen expressed her sorrow for her young comrade Wang Yunwei, who died before turning twenty but fulfilled his mission.

She spoke of the Nanjing Massacre and the ongoing Japanese atrocities, questioning how many more sacrifices would be needed for their country's freedom and when peace would finally arrive. Lin Nansheng assured her that day would come, and Zhu Yizhen affirmed her own belief, stemming from her decision to join the Communists, that peace would eventually prevail.

By early morning, Zhu Yizhen observed that many military police had withdrawn, but the imminent arrival of office workers meant they needed to contact the outside world quickly. Gu Shenyan put his rescue plan into action, with Zhao Jinglong disguised as a rickshaw puller, driving him around the Broadway Mansions. Gu Shenyan hurled smoke grenades into the building's windows, triggering the fire alarm.

As people panicked and rushed out of the building, Lin Nansheng and Zhu Yizhen blended into the crowd and escaped. They drove away in a car Gu Shenyan had prepared, reaching the outskirts of the city before parting ways. Lin Nansheng gave Zhu Yizhen his small pistol for self-defense, while Zhu Yizhen reminded him to dispose of any incriminating items and urged him to stay alive. They both wished each other to survive and remain safe.

Upon Lin Nansheng's return to the station, he was reinstated as the captain of the operation squad by Wang Shi'an. Lin Nansheng immediately requested permission to continue the mission to execute Chen Moqun, but Wang Shi'an, while acknowledging his hatred for traitors, ordered him to rest, claiming he would handle Chen Moqun's execution himself. Gu Shenyan subtly noted that Wang Shi'an had stayed up all night awaiting Lin Nansheng's return. Lin Nansheng thanked Wang Shi'an for his consideration.

The assassination of Uemura Net caused severe security measures at the Military Police Command, yet the assailant managed to escape. General Takahashi Senbei was furious, suspecting Chen Moqun's loyalty, given his past as a veteran Military Intelligence Bureau agent. Zhu Yizhen was deeply saddened by the loss of Wang Yunwei, who was only twenty years old, and shared her grief with Ji Zhongyuan, recalling how powerless she felt witnessing his death.

Ji Zhongyuan consoled her, confirming Wang Yunwei would be recognized as a martyr and her own commendation would follow. He emphasized that the Japanese were becoming increasingly aggressive, urging her to move past her sorrow and continue the fight, especially since the Japanese were getting "out of control." A command from the China Expeditionary Army officially stripped Takahashi Senbei of his commander position at the Japanese Military Police Command, replacing him with Imai Yosuke.

Imai Yosuke, upon assuming his role, pointedly suggested Takahashi Senbei should perform seppuku to uphold the dignity of an imperial soldier. Chen Moqun met with the new commander, who proved to be even more formidable than Takahashi. Imai Yosuke informed Chen Moqun that much of the intelligence he had provided was already known to the Special Higher Police. He explicitly pressured Chen Moqun to quickly apprehend "the Fisherman" to demonstrate his loyalty to Japan, demanding results, not just analysis.

Chen Moqun requested permission to enter the French Concession with a camouflaged radio direction-finding lorry to continue monitoring, suggesting the "Fisherman's" radio had moved there. Imai Yosuke reminded Chen Moqun that many important figures in the Shanghai Military Intelligence Bureau were his former subordinates, including Lin Nansheng, who was involved in General Uemura's assassination and whom Chen Moqun himself brought to Shanghai.

Chen Moqun insisted the assassination was likely the Communist Party's doing and reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to Sino-Japanese cooperation and the new order, asking Imai to trust his loyalty. However, Imai Yosuke declared that all anti-Japanese forces were targets and chastised Chen Moqun for wasting too much time, reiterating his demand for immediate action to prove his loyalty. Privately, Lin Nansheng thanked Gu Shenyan for his help.

Gu Shenyan emphasized the importance of identifying the traitor who betrayed colleagues for personal gain, stating that more would suffer otherwise. He believed the most effective approach was to uncover the information source within the Japanese Military Police Command. Later, Gu Shenyan met with Ji Zhongyuan, handing him the Loyal Salvation Army's latest operational plans against the New Fourth Army, to be sent to their headquarters.

Gu Shenyan expressed dismay that Chinese factions were fighting each other instead of uniting against the Japanese. He warned that Imai Yosuke, who had previously dismantled many Party contact points in Beiping and Tianjin, would intensify pressure on Jessfield 76, making the situation in Shanghai and the French Concession significantly worse. Wang Shi'an, growing impatient with Lan Xinjie's lack of action, intercepted her on her way home.

He gave her a colorless and odorless poison, instructing her to find an opportunity to be alone with Chen Moqun and administer it. Wang Shi'an assured her that she would have ample time to escape before the poison took effect. He dismissed Lan Xinjie's reluctance, portraying it as a service to the country and people by eliminating a traitor.

He reminded her of her upcoming birthday in three days, suggesting it as the perfect opportunity, and promised to arrange her safe passage to Chongqing to reunite with her son once the mission was completed. Lan Xinjie questioned why a "commoner" like her was being tasked with an assassination that even the Military Intelligence Bureau couldn't accomplish. The next morning, Ji Zhongyuan was transmitting a message to his superiors in the French Concession when a Japanese detection vehicle passed by.

Fortunately, Ji Zhongyuan quickly concealed himself, and the pre-set timer on his radio stopped the transmission, preventing the Japanese from pinpointing his location and allowing him to escape detection. Lin Nansheng reviewed photos from Zhao Jinglong, who had been shadowing Chen Moqun. He noted Chen Moqun's extreme caution, even using a bulletproof car and avoiding unnecessary events.

However, he was surprised to see Lan Xinjie in one of the photos, dancing with Chen Moqun at a ballroom in the Japanese-occupied area. Concerned, Lin Nansheng decided to visit Lan Xinjie. He expressed concern about her associating with Chen Moqun, emphasizing the danger. Lan Xinjie, however, was dismissive, stating she needed money and was preparing to have a meal with Chen Moqun, urging Lin Nansheng to leave.

Just as Lin Nansheng was about to leave, Hu Daoyi arrived to pick up Lan Xinjie for her birthday dinner with Chen Moqun. Lan Xinjie quickly hid Lin Nansheng behind a wardrobe. She then calmly opened the door to greet Hu Daoyi, who briefly looked around the room. After a moment, Hu Daoyi stepped outside to wait for her. As they left, Hu Daoyi noticed Lin Nansheng's car parked nearby and asked if she knew whose it was.

Lan Xinjie casually lied, claiming it had been there since the previous night and she had no knowledge of it, deflecting his suspicion. At the restaurant, Hu Daoyi escorted Lan Xinjie to a private room, then left to greet Chen Moqun. Lan Xinjie seized the opportunity to surreptitiously sprinkle the poison onto Chen Moqun's hand towel at the table, recalling Wang Shi'an's assurance about the poison's nature and her escape time.

When Chen Moqun arrived, he complimented Lan Xinjie's charm and presented her with a bouquet of flowers. He then made a toast to her youth and beauty. Throughout the meal, Lan Xinjie grew increasingly nervous, especially when Chen Moqun used the poisoned towel to wipe his face and hands. She confessed her loneliness to Chen Moqun on her birthday. Chen Moqun, ever cautious, had his men supervise the meal preparation, assuring Lan Xinjie the food was safe.

After Chen Moqun peeled a prawn for her, Lan Xinjie feigned spilling wine on her dress and excused herself to the restroom. There, she quickly disposed of the poison bottle. Unbeknownst to Lan Xinjie, Lin Nansheng, worried for her safety, had followed her to the restaurant and noticed other individuals also keeping watch outside. As Lan Xinjie was about to return to the dining room, she overheard someone shout that Chen Moqun had been poisoned and to catch her.

Panicked, she tried to flee but was nearly apprehended by Chen Moqun's guards. Lin Nansheng, who had been waiting, swiftly intervened and helped her escape from the restaurant and into his car. He chastised her for accepting such a dangerous mission, revealing that the poison was fast-acting, taking effect within thirty seconds, meaning Wang Shi'an had lied to her. Lan Xinjie, distraught, worried about her son.

Lin Nansheng, moved by her desperation, instructed her to go to a safe house at 25 Hualong Road in the French Concession, assuring her he would rescue her son, Zi Lu. Lin Nansheng went to Lan Xinjie's apartment to retrieve Zi Lu. He confronted the couple who were babysitting, who tried to stop him from taking the child. Lin Nansheng, at gunpoint, forced them to confess.

They revealed they were paid by the Military Intelligence Bureau, under Wang Shi'an's orders, to monitor Lan Xinjie and Zi Lu. Lin Nansheng warned them that Jessfield 76 agents would soon arrive and told them to keep quiet if they wanted to live, then took Zi Lu to his mother. Meanwhile, Chen Moqun, though severely poisoned, was rushed to the hospital and survived the attempt on his life.

Lin Nansheng brought Zi Lu to Lan Xinjie at the safe house in the French Concession. He revealed that the couple watching Zi Lu were spies for Wang Shi'an. Lan Xinjie then explained her desperate situation: Wang Shi'an had promised her safe passage to Chongqing, a route only the Military Intelligence Bureau could secure through the blockades, if she killed Chen Moqun.

Her family had been anti-Japanese, and she hoped to reach Chongqing to claim a pension, enabling her and Zi Lu to live a stable life. Lin Nansheng understood her plight and sympathized with her. He warned her that Jessfield 76 would relentlessly pursue her. He instructed her and Zi Lu to remain hidden in the French Concession, promising to arrange their departure to Chongqing when the time was right.

Lin Nansheng left the French Concession to confront Wang Shi'an about Lan Xinjie's dangerous mission. He pressed Wang Shi'an on when he planned to send Lan Xinjie and her child to Chongqing. Wang Shi'an, however, retorted that Chen Moqun had regained consciousness the previous night, so the mission was not complete, and there would be no arrangements for Lan Xinjie.

He blamed Lin Nansheng for interfering, which prevented Chen Moqun from dying and made him aware that the bureau was responsible. Lin Nansheng countered, reminding Wang Shi'an that he had not informed Lan Xinjie about the cyanide's toxicity and had threatened her with her child. Wang Shi'an dismissed these concerns, reiterating that Chen Moqun's execution must proceed, and only then would he commend Lan Xinjie to Chongqing.

He warned Lin Nansheng of potential retaliation from Chen Moqun due to his unauthorized actions. Meanwhile, Imai Yosuke visited Chen Moqun in the hospital. Far from offering sympathy, Imai Yosuke chided Chen Moqun for failing to prevent the assassin of General Uemura from escaping, noting that the assailant was a member of the Jiangsu Provincial Communist student movement group.

He also questioned Chen Moqun about being poisoned by a dancer, sternly reminding him that Jessfield 76 was not a place for leisure. Imai Yosuke threatened to have the Special Agent Commission make other arrangements if Chen Moqun didn't swiftly capture the "Fisherman." Understanding the severity of the threat, Chen Moqun immediately arranged for his discharge from the hospital. That same day, amidst heavy rain, Hu Daoyi led a team to apprehend Lu Youming from the telecommunications department.

Chen Moqun, after having Lu Youming tortured, tried to leverage their past camaraderie and Lu's daughter, Qi, whom he knew loved glutinous rice cakes, to extract the exact location of the Military Intelligence Bureau's Shanghai division and the Fisherman's radio. However, Lu Youming steadfastly refused to cooperate, declaring that "a noble man won't forget morality and justice even in a time of crisis," and simply requested a quick death, which Chen Moqun, respecting his integrity, granted.

After dealing with Lu Youming, Hu Daoyi reported to Chen Moqun that they had narrowed the Fisherman's radio location to within a 1500-meter radius in the French Concession. Hu Daoyi proposed a concentrated sweep of the area, but Chen Moqun dismissed it as too risky, fearing it would alert their targets. He suggested a more discreet approach: radios consume significant electricity, so they should investigate electricity consumption records.

Hu Daoyi understood and later bribed a meter reader from the Hunan France Electricity Corporation for three months' worth of electricity records for Avenue Petain and Route Andre Cohen. Separately, Wang Shi'an held an internal meeting, announcing Chongqing's new directive for the execution of Chen Moqun, code-named "Plan Fengye," which had been disseminated nationwide to all stations.

Lin Nansheng requested to lead the operation, but Wang Shi'an denied him, citing Lin Nansheng's previous failure and expressing concern that he might show mercy to Chen Moqun. Instead, Wang Shi'an assigned the mission to the Nanhui action team, whose members were new to Shanghai and had a proven track record.

Meanwhile, Zhao Jinglong reported to Lin Nansheng that Lan Xinjie and her son had been safely settled in a secluded location, and Lin Nansheng instructed for a maid to be hired for them and for Lan Xinjie to avoid going out. Zhao Jinglong also informed Lin Nansheng that, as per his instructions, they had apprehended a military policeman from the Japanese military police command.

This individual revealed that Song Li Cheng was the officer on duty the night the tip-off call about Chen Moqun was received. Lin Nansheng quickly tracked down Song Li Cheng and interrogated him. Initially hesitant, Song Li Cheng confessed under duress that the caller's voice sounded like Wang Shi'an's.

He claimed he had served as Wang Shi'an's secretary for two years and knew his voice well, promising Lin Nansheng a promotion if he reported this information to the higher authorities and spared his life. Enraged, Lin Nansheng bound Song Li Cheng and dragged him to Wang Shi'an's office for a direct confrontation. However, Song Li Cheng, terrified in Wang Shi'an's presence, recanted his statement, claiming he had made everything up.

Without hesitation, Wang Shi'an shot and killed Song Li Cheng, branding him a traitor whose words were untrustworthy. Wang Shi'an then warned Lin Nansheng to keep silent about the incident. Afterward, Lin Nansheng reflected on his impulsiveness, regretting the loss of the witness and his inability to report the matter to Chongqing. Gu Shenyan tried to console him, explaining that Chongqing would likely not have believed the testimony of a known traitor anyway, especially with "Plan Fengye" already in motion.

He urged Lin Nansheng to focus on the future and to be more cautious in his actions and words, as Wang Shi'an would not pursue the matter further with him. Lin Nansheng, however, struggled to understand why Wang Shi'an would betray a colleague when facing such a formidable enemy. The next morning, Wang Shi'an, seemingly to appease Lin Nansheng, called him into his office. He acknowledged Lin Nansheng's passion and promised to personally uncover the mole who betrayed Chen Moqun.

He then assigned Lin Nansheng a new task: to meet with the Communists again. Wang Shi'an emphasized the urgency due to more intelligence department chiefs defecting to Jessfield 76, which he believed was orchestrated by the Japanese. He instructed Lin Nansheng to be humble and sincere in their offer of 50 guns, three radios, and ten gold bars in exchange for intelligence sharing. Meanwhile, Hu Daoyi began covertly investigating businesses with high electricity consumption.

He visited Ji Zhongyuan's "Nanyuan Frame Trading" shop under the pretense of needing a name seal, observing an electric heater that seemed to be rarely used. Ji Zhongyuan sensed something suspicious about Hu Daoyi. He later cautioned Zhu Yizhen via phone call to be extra vigilant when meeting their Military Intelligence Bureau contact, as he suspected they were under surveillance.

Upon learning that Hu Daoyi had entered the shop, Chen Moqun angrily reprimanded him for "spooking the snake" and immediately began preparing for action. Ji Zhongyuan, noticing an increase in surveillance around his shop, quickly closed it, went upstairs to burn sensitive documents, and placed a different colored flower on the windowsill as a signal. Simultaneously, Zhu Yizhen met Lin Nansheng at a cafe.

Lin Nansheng mentioned seeing many French policemen near her contact point at Route Pershing, near Avenue Petain. When Zhu Yizhen saw Ji Zhongyuan's signal, she immediately realized something was wrong at her contact point and swiftly departed the cafe.

Hu Daoyi, disguised as a customer seeking stone carving, insisted on entering Ji Zhongyuan's frame trading shop. Once inside, he and his men from Jessfield 76 swiftly seized and handcuffed Ji Zhongyuan. Hu Daoyi instructed his men to secure the ground floor, prepared to apprehend anyone suspicious. He then took Ji Zhongyuan upstairs and removed a vase from its spot, attempting to extract information about other comrades. Ji Zhongyuan, however, remained defiant and silent, repeatedly glancing at a wardrobe.

Following Ji Zhongyuan's gaze, Hu Daoyi opened the wardrobe and discovered a radio transmitter. As Hu Daoyi ordered his men to confiscate the transmitter and take Ji Zhongyuan away, the device, which had a grenade booby-trapped underneath it, exploded.

Lin Nansheng, who had been observing the scene from a car with Zhu Yizhen after she noticed a distress signal from Ji Zhongyuan's potted plant, pulled her away as she frantically tried to rush into the exploding shop to save her comrade. Although Ji Zhongyuan perished in the blast, Hu Daoyi miraculously survived and immediately reported back to Chen Moqun. Chen Moqun was enraged by the loss of Ji Zhongyuan, especially given his need to provide results to the Japanese.

Based on descriptions from shop owners, Hu Daoyi had an artist sketch Zhu Yizhen's portrait and confirmed her identity as the second "landlady" of the frame trading shop. Chen Moqun recognized Zhu Yizhen as a crucial person connected to the exploded Communist liaison station and ordered an extensive search for her throughout the French Concession, involving both his agents and the local police, regardless of the cost. Meanwhile, Gu Shenyan, upon hearing about the explosion, went to the scene.

He observed Hu Daoyi presenting Zhu Yizhen's portrait to Chen Moqun, which confirmed his suspicion that Ji Zhongyuan had been killed. Later, Gu Shenyan visited a place where he and Ji Zhongyuan used to meet, silently mourning his fallen comrade. Lin Nansheng took a distraught Zhu Yizhen to a safe house he maintained in the French Concession. Overcome with grief, Zhu Yizhen wept, feeling isolated after the loss of all her comrades and the disruption of her party contacts.

Lin Nansheng listened empathetically, sharing his own experiences of losing friends and encouraging her that as long as they were alive, there was hope. Station Chief Wang Shi'an convened a meeting, expressing grave concern that Jessfield 76's successful operation against the Communist liaison station in the French Concession, supported by the local police, indicated that their military intelligence operations could be the next target.

He ordered the immediate transfer of important documents to a secure location and instructed his finance department to pay whatever "protection fees" the police demanded to prevent Jessfield 76 from encroaching on their sites. He stressed the importance of "Plan Fengye" (eliminating Chen Moqun), declaring that the Shanghai station would never be at peace as long as "Traitor Chen" lived.

Concurrently, a tense negotiation unfolded between French and Japanese officials concerning the Japanese military's presence and activities in the French Concession. Imai Yosuke, the Japanese representative, aggressively demanded that the French cease harboring various Chinese nationalist and resistance groups and fully cooperate in "clearing" all anti-Japanese elements. When the French officials protested, citing international law and their jurisdiction, Imai threatened to abolish the French Concession altogether, reminding them of Japan's actions in Vietnam.

He concluded by demanding the locations of all resistance strongholds and the right for Japanese forces to move into the Concession after these sites were demolished. Meanwhile, Lin Nansheng bought a special gift for Zhu Yizhen—an original edition of "Leaves of Grass," which he had searched all of Shanghai to find, and later delivered it to her along with some daily necessities he had purchased from a department store.

Shortly after this, while he was out on the street, he noticed police officers circulating a portrait of Zhu Yizhen. Realizing the immediate and severe danger she was in, he rushed back to move her. He informed Zhu Yizhen that they needed to relocate to his secret safe house in the Japanese-occupied Hongkou District, near the Huangpu River.

To avoid suspicion, they would adopt new cover identities: he as a purchasing manager for a Japanese company, frequently on business trips, and she as his wife, a proofreader from Suzhou visiting him. Upon their arrival at the new residence, Lin Nansheng introduced Zhu Yizhen as his wife to their Japanese landlady, Madam Fukiishi.

He also provided Zhu Yizhen with a contact number under the name "Lin Shi Xian" for emergencies, instructing her to remain there until it was safe to leave, acknowledging he would return often due to their cover. The military intelligence decided to proceed with "Plan Fengye" to eliminate Chen Moqun. Gu Shenyan, after extensively studying Chen Moqun's travel schedule provided by the Nanhui District's third squad, identified an opportunity.

He brought Lin Nansheng to a secret warehouse, where he presented a specialized firearm whose bullets were designed to pierce bulletproof glass and then ricochet inside the vehicle, ensuring lethal injury. Lin Nansheng unequivocally declared his resolve, assuring Gu Shenyan that he would show no mercy to Chen Moqun, who had betrayed their country. The following morning, Lin Nansheng and Zhao Jinglong executed the ambush.

Zhao Jinglong, disguised, threw a grenade at the leading car of Chen Moqun's convoy, disabling it and blocking the road. As Chen Moqun's vehicle attempted to reverse and escape, Lin Nansheng fired two shots from his sniper rifle through the bulletproof window. However, Chen Moqun managed to evade the shots. Lin Nansheng then rammed Chen Moqun's car with a truck, trapping it.

He leaped onto the truck's hood, leveled his handgun at Chen Moqun, and, consumed by a mix of anger and grief, demanded to know why he had become a traitor. However, the handgun bullets were unable to penetrate the car window, leaving Chen Moqun unharmed. As a large number of police and military reinforcements quickly arrived, Lin Nansheng and Zhao Jinglong were forced to retreat. Chen Moqun was taken to the hospital, where his minor injuries were bandaged.

Soon after, he was summoned to meet Commander Imai Yosuke. Imai began by commending Chen Moqun's recent success against the Communists, then revealed a bombshell: he possessed precise intelligence regarding the Shanghai Military Intelligence Bureau's location within the French Concession and its operational deployments. When a surprised Chen Moqun asked how he acquired such vital information, Imai dismissed it as irrelevant, emphasizing their shared goal of eradicating the Military Intelligence Bureau.

Imai then issued a stern warning, ordering Chen Moqun to ensure no mistakes were made in the upcoming operation and, pointedly, not to allow his "past subordinates" (referring to Lin Nansheng) to threaten his life again. Meanwhile, Station Chief Wang Shi'an held a debriefing with Lin Nansheng and Gu Shenyan about the failed assassination.

Lin Nansheng took full responsibility, explaining that the special bullet's failure to ricochet within the car was due to excessive gunpowder, causing it to pierce straight through. Gu Shenyan attempted to shoulder some blame for providing the weapon, but Wang Shi'an cut them off, stating that Lin Nansheng alone was responsible for leading the assassination attempt.

Wang Shi'an was furious about the failed assassination attempt on Chen Moqun, accusing Lin Nansheng of intentionally allowing Chen to escape and taking action without permission. When Gu Shenyan tried to defend Lin Nansheng, Wang Shi'an cut him off, then turned his anger on Gu for not reporting such a critical operation to him beforehand, stressing the importance of unity.

Gu Shenyan accepted the criticism and then proposed a new assassination opportunity, revealing that Chen Moqun regularly attended Japanese news bulletin screenings at the Shanghai Press Office on the 18th of each month. Meanwhile, Zhu Yizhen, using the alias Mrs. Lin, reluctantly accepted an invitation from her landlady, Mrs. Fukiishi, to share some snacks. During their conversation, Mrs. Fukiishi subtly probed Zhu Yizhen's background.

Zhu Yizhen skillfully deflected the questions, mentioning her husband was away on business and she hadn't been going out much. She then redirected the conversation to Mrs. Fukiishi's embroidery. Mrs. Fukiishi, who admired Suzhou embroidery, asked if Zhu Yizhen, being from Suzhou, also embroidered. Zhu Yizhen replied that her mother had taught her as a child but she rarely practiced now, adding that her mother had passed away when she was young, making her unable to recall specific embroidery patterns.

Mrs. Fukiishi then offered to teach Zhu Yizhen embroidery. Following Imai Yosuke's orders, Chen Moqun initiated a swift operation to dismantle MIL Intelligence Bureau stations. His men first secured all fixed sentry posts around the main office and then surrounded the building, capturing MIL Intelligence Bureau personnel on patrol. Inside the MIL Intelligence Bureau, Wang Shi'an was informed that their sentries had been attacked and Japanese troops were closing in from all directions.

Attempts to contact the central police station by phone failed, confirming their isolation. Wang Shi'an rallied his staff, declaring it a critical moment of life and death for the Shanghai division, and ordered them to frantically burn sensitive files and codebooks. As the Japanese assault intensified with heavy gunfire and bombing, Lin Nansheng organized a counterattack while simultaneously creating an emergency escape route by breaking through a wall.

He directed everyone to evacuate through this passage, taking responsibility for covering their retreat. Wang Shi'an, after being helped by Gu Shenyan from under a fallen table, made his escape. However, in an act of callous self-preservation, he ordered the escape passage sealed, abandoning the remaining personnel. After neutralizing Japanese soldiers on the rooftop, Lin Nansheng learned of Wang Shi'an's actions. He angrily confronted Wang Shi'an about destroying the passage, questioning the fate of their colleagues who stayed behind.

Wang Shi'an coldly justified his decision, stating that those who stayed behind were meant to buy time and he had to "cut off the tail" to protect key personnel. Lin Nansheng then informed Wang Shi'an that Japanese forces were advancing on their current escape route. Wang Shi'an immediately announced "Plan Gecko," ordering everyone to abandon their current residences, disperse, take refuge with the Loyal Salvation Army in the city, and await instructions for evacuation from Shanghai.

Gu Shenyan then insisted that Wang Shi'an, as the station chief, must go to an emergency backup station at No. 24, Rue Hennequin, which Gu had prepared, to report the attack to headquarters immediately, while he and Lin Nansheng would stay to hold off the enemy. Wang Shi'an agreed and departed with his core team. Lin Nansheng and Gu Shenyan fought their way out, with Lin telling Gu to find an exit while he covered them.

Gu Shenyan, injured in the process, and Lin Nansheng narrowly escaped Japanese pursuit by taking refuge in a civilian home. The homeowner, realizing their plight, helped them disguise themselves and guided them through a hidden path to evade the Japanese. Meanwhile, Imai Yosuke, arriving at the devastated MIL Intelligence Bureau office, was furious that Chen Moqun had failed to capture any key figures, especially Lin Nansheng.

Imai ordered for a working radio to be assembled from broken ones and a plain code telegram sent to Chongqing, inviting Dai Li to Nanjing to join the "Peace Movement." He then instructed Chen Moqun to continue his raids and capture key personnel. Chen Moqun, disappointed by the lack of useful intelligence despite searching through partially burned files, reported that he had busted several more liaison stations, but still had no leads on Lin Nansheng, Gu Shenyan, or Wang Shi'an.

Upon arriving at the backup station, Wang Shi'an was greatly annoyed but promptly sent a telegram to headquarters in Chongqing, updating them on the critical situation in Shanghai. Chongqing replied with instructions for the division to first evacuate and then rebuild. Wang Shi'an then outlined their "Plan Gecko": personnel would be evacuated in batches by ship to Anhui, then escorted to Chongqing. Concerned that arrested personnel might have compromised their plans, he mandated a rigorous one-by-one verification of all evacuees.

He also tasked Lin Nansheng with urgently determining the status of all remaining stations in the city as soon as possible, to report to headquarters within two days. Wang Shi'an acknowledged Gu Shenyan's foresight in preparing the backup contact point, crediting him with preserving the "last spark" of the Shanghai division. A Japanese newspaper published a fabricated list of casualties from the MIL Intelligence Bureau raid, including Wang Shi'an and Lin Nansheng, aiming to sow panic among remaining agents.

Hearing civilian discussions about the increasing chaos, Japanese killings in the French Concession, and bodies being found, Zhu Yizhen, unaware of the deception, discovered the newspaper report claiming Lin Nansheng had died in the bombing. Believing him to be dead, she was overcome with grief and cried. Confined to her home due to strict patrols and unable to gather information, Zhu Yizhen grew anxious.

Meanwhile, Gu Shenyan placed a "seeking family" advertisement in a newspaper, hoping to establish contact with Zhu Yizhen. Zhu Yizhen later heard a radio broadcast from Mrs. Fukiishi's room. Feigning interest in embroidery, she visited Mrs. Fukiishi to secretly listen to the news. The broadcast from "Central Broadcasting System Nanjing Station" boasted of an "unprecedented victory" by Japanese forces against various anti-Japanese organizations, claiming many members had "repented."

Mrs. Fukiishi, still unaware of Zhu Yizhen's true identity, continued to inquire about "Mr. Lin's" return from his business trip, expressing worry about the dangers outside. Lin Nansheng diligently searched for surviving MIL Intelligence Bureau personnel in Shanghai. He soon encountered Zhao Jinglong, who was relieved to see Lin Nansheng alive.

Zhao explained that after the previous day's events, he tried to assist at Hua Hsing Cie but was overwhelmed by the Japanese presence, returning to his station to await contact. Zhao reported that only two other men from his station had survived, while the rest were killed, and one captured agent had defected. Lin Nansheng was relieved to learn that Zhao had safely sent his wife and child back to the countryside.

Lin Nansheng then instructed Zhao that their immediate task was to ascertain the true status of each station in the city and locate as many surviving members as possible. Before they parted ways, Lin Nansheng cautioned Zhao about the ongoing Japanese hunt and the threat posed by defectors, urging them both to stay safe. After notifying various MIL Intelligence Bureau stations about the evacuation plan, Lin Nansheng discretely visited Lan Xinjie.

He informed her that a ship to Chongqing had been arranged and someone would pick her up within the next two days, urging her to pack her belongings in advance to avoid missing the departure. He advised her to be mentally prepared for the long journey with her child, despite the presence of escorts, and provided her with money for the trip.

Lan Xinjie was deeply grateful and emotional about their imminent separation, wondering when they would see each other again. They bid each other farewell, with Lin Nansheng wishing her a safe journey. Disguised, Lin Nansheng then traveled to the Japanese-occupied area to meet with Zhu Yizhen, only to discover a heavy Japanese security presence in the vicinity.

Lin Nansheng, disguised in a puppet army officer's uniform, returned to his lodging in the Japanese-occupied zone late at night, avoiding suspicion from patrols. Zhu Yizhen, who had been waiting anxiously, cooked noodles for him. The two shared a quiet meal, finding solace in each other's presence. Meanwhile, Wang Shi'an oversaw the final stages of Plan Gecko, receiving the detailed list of evacuees from Gu Shenyan.

He announced that the total number of evacuees was 116, and the last batch would depart the next day, marking the end of the plan. Wang Shi'an then decided to personally go to the Qingpu District contact point to rebuild and develop new forces, rejecting offers of escort as more men would make them a bigger target.

He assigned Secretary Zhang to handle communications and Section Chief Sun to protect important records, instructing them to contact the Qingpu point if anything happened. Wang Shi'an attributed their station's narrow escape from annihilation to the Japanese army's brutality, exacerbated by "Traitor Chen." He then tasked Gu Shenyan with Plan Fengye, an operation to eliminate Chen Moqun by the 18th of the month, emphasizing its critical importance and demanding its success at all costs.

As Japanese military police established a presence in the French Concession and expatriates evacuated from British and American enclaves, Shanghai plunged into fear, with artillery fire echoing nightly. Lin Nansheng slipped out to investigate and discovered that Japan had declared war on Britain and America, sinking the British HMS Peterel and moving large numbers of Japanese soldiers towards the British and American concessions. Upon learning this critical news, Zhu Yizhen felt an urgent need to contact her party organization.

Lin Nansheng advised against going out due to the widespread arrests, suggesting the information would soon be public. However, Zhu Yizhen insisted that these few hours were crucial, prompting Lin Nansheng to escort her out of the city. To avoid heavily guarded stations and checkpoints, he drove along small paths. At a puppet army checkpoint, Lin Nansheng, still in his officer's uniform, presented himself and Zhu Yizhen as a couple needing to travel to Suzhou for an urgent family matter.

When questioned by an officer about his division's supposed campaign in Anhui, Lin Nansheng quickly claimed he was recuperating in Shanghai after being shot twice during the campaign, firmly asserting he shouldn't have to provide further details. His bold demeanor convinced the officer, and they were allowed to pass into the regular zone. Lin Nansheng remarked to Zhu Yizhen that he never expected his puppet army uniform to be so useful.

Lin Nansheng dropped Zhu Yizhen off near her secret command post, reminding her that they were now in the regular zone and she should change out of her current disguise for safety. At the command post, Zhu Yizhen reported the Japanese declaration of war and the perilous situation in Shanghai, highlighting the destruction of their radio and the death of Old Ji.

She urged her superior, Chief Wei, to immediately notify the central committee, order the evacuation of concession contact points, and dispatch the Security Division to aid those still inside. Her superior praised her timely report, acknowledging that it would save many lives by allowing the central committee to grasp the rapidly changing situation.

Zhu Yizhen explained that she had been hiding with Lin Nansheng from the Military Intelligence Bureau, who saved her after Old Ji's death and helped her pass the checkpoint today. She also informed them that "Mailman," another comrade from the Military Intelligence Bureau who only contacted Old Ji, had lost contact with the organization. Believing Mailman was still alive, she requested the organization to locate him, a sentiment her superior shared.

After Zhu Yizhen completed her report, Lin Nansheng picked her up, and they returned home, both aware of the uncertain future. Meanwhile, Wang Shi'an, accompanied by two men, arrived at the Qingpu contact station, only to fall into an ambush orchestrated by Chen Moqun. The couple operating the station had already been bribed by Chen Moqun, one of them remarking on the "three thousand silver coins" they had received.

Chen Moqun had no intention of killing Wang Shi'an or seeking Japanese recognition for his capture. Instead, he wanted Wang Shi'an to facilitate his return to the Chongqing bureau. Chen Moqun openly admitted his desire to rejoin the central committee, claiming the Japanese were "crazies" who would "suffer in the future" for attacking Britain and America. Wang Shi'an, though initially unwilling, conceded that his life was more valuable than his death.

To ensure Wang Shi'an's cooperation, Chen Moqun coerced him, threatening that he would "end up like me" if he didn't help. Wang Shi'an agreed to broker Chen Moqun's reinstatement, emphasizing the need to leave no trace of his capture to avoid suspicion of disloyalty in Chongqing. Chen Moqun, now calling Wang Shi'an "Brother," declared they were "on the same boat" and that Wang Shi'an would "do anything for me." Wang Shi'an, curious about Plan Fengye, asked who would execute it.

Chen Moqun cryptically replied that Wang Shi'an "knew all of them." Chongqing's reply to Wang Shi'an's telegram soon arrived. As a "gift" and a display of his leverage, Chen Moqun handed over the Qingpu couple who had betrayed Wang Shi'an. Wang Shi'an showed them no mercy, and their desperate pleas were cut short by gunshots. In Hong Kong, the Japanese military government was established under General Takashi Sakai, and order was reportedly being restored in war-torn areas.

Meng Annan, working as a reporter, actively exposed Japanese atrocities by risking his life to take photos, which he insisted be distributed to all newspapers. He had gained the trust of pro-Communist individuals, including one who acknowledged Meng Annan's request for a meeting, confirming his successful infiltration.

Meng Annan described how he helped rescue people from a Japanese traffic stop at Shenzhen Bay by disguising them as Tanka people, whose language and customs he was familiar with from growing up by the beach. Gu Shenyan and Lin Nansheng discussed Plan Fengye.

Zhao Jinglong, who had scouted the Press Office, reported that security was exceptionally high due to senior officials of the Shanghai Municipal Pseudo-Government regularly attending newsreel screenings there, making a direct assault during a screening nearly impossible. Lin Nansheng expressed his concern about executing such a risky mission now that Shanghai was under full Japanese control and anti-Japanese forces were almost annihilated.

He argued that after the headquarters' order to evacuate for reconstruction, it was inappropriate to risk their remaining strength. Gu Shenyan, acknowledging Lin Nansheng's points, countered that with Japan having declared war on Britain and America, attacked Pearl Harbor and Nanyang, and Hong Kong fallen, the situation would only become more severe. He insisted that his plan, which involved him sneaking into the Press Office tonight, was the "only way."

He ordered Lin Nansheng and Zhao Jinglong to coordinate with him from outside tomorrow, stating he had a retreat plan and would share the details, pointing out the screening hall's street-facing wall. On his way home, Lin Nansheng purchased a butterfly brooch, along with food, necessities, and newspapers. He told the salesman the brooch was for a "very important friend," not his wife. Back home, he urged Zhu Yizhen to use the provisions and stay indoors.

When he announced he was going out that night, Zhu Yizhen sensed something was amiss. He casually mentioned that she would be leaving in a few days and reminded her to leave the key in the usual spot in the bush. Zhu Yizhen, her voice filled with apprehension, asked if he would be away for a long time.

Lin Nansheng reassured her he would return as soon as possible and asked her to go back to her room so he could deal with something. As Lin Nansheng departed, Zhu Yizhen, holding the butterfly brooch, watched him leave from the window, a mix of concern and sadness on her face. Wang Shi'an returned to a backup contact station, inquiring about any telegrams from headquarters meant for him, but none had arrived.

He also asked if Gu Shenyan and the others had gone to the Press Office to execute Plan Fengye, but his subordinate had no information as they hadn't been there since Wang Shi'an left two days prior. Wang Shi'an instructed him to stay vigilant for any headquarters telegram. Later, Gu Shenyan met with Zhao Jinglong, asking about Lin Nansheng's whereabouts and why he wasn't there for the plan.

Zhao Jinglong explained that while Lin Nansheng had initially planned for Zhao Jinglong and himself to provide external support for Gu Shenyan's infiltration the next day, he had instead sent Lin Nansheng to the Press Office on his way there, indicating Lin Nansheng had decided to infiltrate the target himself that night.

Gu Shenyan had planned a third assassination attempt on Chen Moqun, anticipating his movements accurately. However, Lin Nansheng disregarded orders and went to the Press Office alone to ambush Chen Moqun. Zhao Jinglong had informed Gu Shenyan that Lin Nansheng insisted on going solo, believing Gu Shenyan was indispensable for coordination and that Zhao Jinglong, with a wife and child, should not be put in danger. Gu Shenyan deemed this decision reckless.

Lin Nansheng soon realized that the man he shot was merely Chen Moqun's double, and he had fallen into a trap. As gunfire erupted and Lin Nansheng fought his way out, Gu Shenyan and Zhao Jinglong rushed to his aid. They quickly picked him up in their car just as they were about to be surrounded. After escaping through Japanese blockades and dealing with the vehicle in the outskirts, they returned to a backup liaison point.

Lin Nansheng, feeling guilty, apologized to Gu Shenyan for disobeying orders and offered to accept any punishment. Gu Shenyan, however, told him not to dwell on immediate successes or failures, stating that every bullet they fired was a proclamation of their unwavering spirit. Upon his return, Wang Shi'an seemed unfazed by the assassination's failure. He used this as an opportunity to suggest postponing "Plan Fengye," emphasizing the need to conserve their forces.

Wang Shi'an then falsely reported that he had been ambushed at the Qingpu liaison station by Traitor Wang's Peacebuilding National Army, claiming that two of his men and the couple from the station were killed, and he barely escaped. Gu Shenyan found Wang Shi'an's account suspicious and believed someone might have leaked his whereabouts. Wang Shi'an tried to dismiss any investigation, claiming it was probably part of a general "mopping-up operation" and pointless since their men were dead.

Though Gu Shenyan appeared to accept his explanation, he later dispatched Zhao Jinglong to Qingpu to investigate the truth of the matter. Wang Shi'an's hurried departure and mention of securing a new residence only heightened Gu Shenyan's suspicions. Meanwhile, Zhu Yizhen, who had been anxiously waiting, saw a wounded Lin Nansheng return. She quickly went to him. When Mrs. Fukiishi appeared, Zhu Yizhen skillfully composed herself and helped Lin Nansheng conceal his injury from their host.

Once they were alone in their room, Zhu Yizhen immediately tended to Lin Nansheng's deep wound, carefully removing a bullet and dressing it, a silent exchange that fostered trust between them. She stayed by his side throughout the night, comforting him as he recovered. Wang Shi'an, feeling his position precarious after recent events, began converting his assets into gold and US dollars in preparation for any future need to escape.

His assistant retrieved gold bars and US dollars from his former residence. During this time, the assistant also informed Wang Shi'an that Gu Shenyan had been to the communication department to send a telegram to the Loyal Salvation Army near Qingpu. Using a B-level codebook, Gu Shenyan had asked them to investigate the Qingpu contact point, confirming Wang Shi'an's fear that Gu Shenyan was probing into his fabricated story.

A new liaison, Old Pan, arrived from the base to replace Ji Zhongyuan. He met with Gu Shenyan, exchanging vital intelligence. Gu Shenyan informed Old Pan about the rebuilding of the Shanghai division of the Military Intelligence Bureau and the planned attack by the Taicang Detachment of the Loyal Salvation Army on the New Fourth Army's stronghold in Taicang, noting their acquisition of a powerful 75mm mountain gun.

Old Pan, in turn, provided Gu Shenyan with the location of a new, secluded safehouse in the countryside and confirmed that other contact methods would remain unchanged. Old Pan also met with Zhu Yizhen, praising her quick actions in informing the base after the previous contact point was destroyed. He confirmed she had successfully contacted "Comrade Mailman" and that most other comrades had been safely evacuated.

Old Pan then appointed Zhu Yizhen as his key intelligence officer and instructed her to move to No. 25 Route Cardinal Mercier, their new contact point, as soon as possible. This meant Zhu Yizhen would be moving out of Lin Nansheng's residence. Zhu Yizhen informed Lin Nansheng of her impending departure, suggesting they share a last meal together. Lin Nansheng agreed, though he needed to go out first despite his injury.

He later took a list of military intelligence defectors to Gu Shenyan. They discussed the failed assassination attempt, and Lin Nansheng reiterated his suspicion that Wang Shi'an had leaked the plan to Chen Moqun, citing Chen Moqun's use of a double and the unusually tight security. Gu Shenyan concurred, revealing Zhao Jinglong's findings at Qingpu: only handgun cartridges were found, contradicting Wang Shi'an's claim of an ambush by Traitor Wang's forces which would have used rifles.

Furthermore, Gu Shenyan's own inquiry to the Loyal Salvation Army confirmed that Traitor Wang's troops had not conducted any operations in Qingpu during that period. Despite this, Gu Shenyan expressed frustration that without direct evidence, they might never definitively know the full truth behind the dyeing mill's destruction.

Meanwhile, Wang Shi'an met with Chen Moqun, informing him that Chongqing had agreed to his return on three conditions: he would be appointed director of the Shanghai Enemy Rear Working Committee, provide intelligence on Traitor Wang's government, and protect military intelligence personnel in Shanghai. Chen Moqun accepted but demanded a letter of appointment signed by Mr. Dai Li himself. Wang Shi'an promised it would be delivered and suggested they cease meeting to ensure their safety.

Chen Moqun then requested Wang Shi'an to urge headquarters to cancel "Plan Fengye." He also voiced his concern about Gu Shenyan's investigation into the Qingpu incident, suggesting that Gu Shenyan's continued presence in Shanghai could endanger both of them. Later, Wang Shi'an received Chongqing's directive to immediately terminate "Plan Fengye." Lin Nansheng was bewildered by this decision.

Gu Shenyan explained that traitors like Chen Moqun were opportunists who would always seek new patrons, and Chongqing might be using him to gather intelligence. Gu Shenyan expressed a deeper concern: this termination order could signal a dangerous precedent, implying that betrayal was negotiable and that higher-ranking defectors could secure better deals. He found this prospect more terrifying than the brutality of the enemy.

Lin Nansheng still believed they needed to confirm if Wang Shi'an had pulled strings for Chen Moqun with headquarters from Qingpu, which would conclusively link him to the leak of the Press Office operation. Gu Shenyan, however, highlighted the difficulty of obtaining such confidential information, especially now that "Plan Fengye" was terminated.

As Zhu Yizhen was returning home from her meeting with Old Pan, on her way to share her farewell meal with Lin Nansheng, she was spotted by patrol officers who recognized her, thereby exposing her identity. The officers, realizing the significance of the capture, moved to apprehend her.

Japanese military police set up patrols and control zones in Shanghai, one of which encompassed Lin Nansheng's residence. As Lin Nansheng walked back, he noticed plainclothes officers following Zhu Yizhen upstairs. Inside, Zhu Yizhen was trying on a butterfly brooch Lin Nansheng had given her, her feelings shifting from sweet anticipation to sadness at the thought of their impending separation. Realizing she had been exposed, she quickly hid in her landlady's room and climbed down from the balcony window.

Lin Nansheng rushed to meet her, and they ran through the narrow alleyways. In a brief moment of respite, Zhu Yizhen urged Lin Nansheng to leave, insisting that at least one of them should survive. She implored him to complete the tasks she couldn't and to watch over their country after it was liberated. However, seeing the brooch on her clothes, Lin Nansheng pulled her into an embrace, feigning to be a loving couple to evade approaching police.

Despite their attempt to conceal themselves, a gunshot rang out, and both Zhu Yizhen and Lin Nansheng were struck, bullets piercing Zhu Yizhen’s chest from behind and Lin Nansheng’s back. Lin Nansheng fell to the ground, trying to reach for Zhu Yizhen's hand before losing consciousness, calling out her name, "Zhen Zhen."

An officer named Old Wu from the police station immediately called Gu Shenyan, informing him that Lin Nansheng, one of Gu Shenyan's men, and a Communist named Zhu Yizhen had been shot during their capture by police from East Seward Road. Both were critically wounded and were being treated at Renji Hospital, with local police chiefs eager to transfer them to the Japanese Military Police Command for credit.

Concerned for their safety, Gu Shenyan promptly called Chen Moqun, demanding an immediate private meeting. Chen Moqun initially hesitated, but Gu Shenyan threatened to expose Chen Moqun’s collaboration with the Central Executive Committee in Nanjing and Chongqing newspapers, forcing him to comply. During their meeting, Gu Shenyan disclosed Lin Nansheng and Zhu Yizhen's predicament, urging Chen Moqun to rescue them from Renji Hospital. Chen Moqun expressed surprise at the Nationalist and Communist working together.

He was particularly reluctant to save Zhu Yizhen due to her Communist affiliation, but Gu Shenyan argued it was for Chen Moqun’s own benefit; if Zhu Yizhen fell into Japanese hands, they might uncover Chen Moqun’s role in saving Lin Nansheng. Gu Shenyan emphasized the united front against Japan, stating that after Zhu Yizhen recovered, she would go where she needed to go. He advised Chen Moqun to seize this opportunity to re-establish his connection with Chongqing.

Chen Moqun agreed to help transfer Lin Nansheng and Zhu Yizhen from the hospital. Lin Nansheng regained consciousness in the Japanese Ground Army Hospital in Hong Kong. Zuo Qiuming, now a liaison officer and deputy director of the Japan South China Development Co., Ltd. in Hong Kong, visited him, posing as a family friend to avoid suspicion.

He informed Lin Nansheng that his new identity was Pang Jiajun, a major in the First Front Army’s independent brigade of Wang Jingwei's Peacebuilding National Army. His father, Pang Ran, a member of Nanjing's Central Executive Committee, had arranged his transfer. Lin Nansheng was instructed to remember that he was injured during a Taicang purging campaign a week prior. Zuo Qiuming also brought Japanese books, urging Lin Nansheng to practice the language as most patients were high-ranking Japanese officers.

Lin Nansheng asked about Zhu Yizhen, but Zuo Qiuming could only say that Gu Shenyan had arranged Lin Nansheng’s transfer and had no information about her. In the hospital, Lin Nansheng encountered Kato Koji, a Japanese captain who openly discussed his belief in using prisoners of war for assassination training, as mere dummies couldn't provide a true sense of killing. Kato Koji, suspecting Lin Nansheng, probed him with questions about his background.

Lin Nansheng carefully maintained his fabricated identity as Pang Jiajun from the Peacebuilding National Army's First Front Army independent brigade. When Kato Koji tried to trick him by asking about "Brigadier Feng," Lin Nansheng corrected him, stating their brigadier's surname was Yang, and his name was Yang Feng, causing Kato Koji to feign confusion about Chinese surnames. Meanwhile, Zhu Yizhen awoke in Schneider's Clinic in Jiaxing.

Shen Xi, from the Jiatong Working Committee, informed her that she was now Shen Yujing, Shen Xi's niece, and was to recover there. Shen Xi provided a cover story: Zhu Yizhen was accidentally shot during an anti-Japanese resistance battle at Fengqiaozhen. She assured Zhu Yizhen that no one in Jiaxing would recognize her and that the German clinic was safe from Japanese inspection. Shen Xi, however, had no information regarding Lin Nansheng's whereabouts or condition.

Worried, Zhu Yizhen later asked Dr. Schneider about the survival rate for someone with bullet wounds to the chest. The doctor explained it was very dangerous if the lungs were punctured, requiring an exceptionally skilled doctor, but maintained that there was still a chance for survival, and a miracle might happen. Back in Shanghai, Wang Shi'an initiated an investigation into Gu Shenyan.

His men uncovered records of missing printing machines from 1937 and a high-power radio from 1939 that Gu Shenyan had claimed was confiscated by the Special Higher Police. Wang Shi'an reported his findings to Chongqing Headquarters, emphasizing the secrecy of the mission. Zhou Yaoting convened a meeting to discuss Gu Shenyan’s conduct. Initially, the attendees viewed the missing items as minor corruption.

However, when an intel officer revealed that while printing factories were indeed destroyed, the Special Higher Police had never confiscated any American-made radios, Zhou Yaoting grew suspicious, fearing Gu Shenyan might be involved with Communists, recalling "Traitor Chen" (Chen Moqun)'s past, unproven investigation of a Communist spy codenamed Mailman. The consensus shifted, and everyone agreed that Gu Shenyan should be brought back to Chongqing for a thorough investigation to prevent him from tampering with evidence or witnesses in Shanghai.

Gu Shenyan received an urgent telegram from Director Li of Chongqing Headquarters, warning him that Wang Shi'an was investigating him and that he was in danger. Old Pan, his contact, urged him to evacuate immediately. However, Gu Shenyan refused, arguing that if he fled, the investigation would escalate from mere corruption to uncovering his true identity as a Communist, which would expose over a dozen people connected to him.

He assured Old Pan that he had a plan and requested twenty Hanyang 88 firearms, with consecutive serial numbers, from the batch Old Ji had sent to the New Fourth Army. In Hong Kong, Lin Nansheng continued to struggle with the Japanese soldiers' casual conversations about torturing and mutilating Chinese prisoners. He confessed to Zuo Qiuming that he couldn't bear it anymore and wished to die or leave.

Zuo Qiuming, drawing on his own years as a spy within Japanese ranks, urged Lin Nansheng to endure, emphasizing that suffering in silence was often the only way to survive and continue their fight. He reminded Lin Nansheng that at least they were still alive. Lin Nansheng conceded, but expressed despair about their future actions and the increasingly brazen Japanese forces, lamenting his situation and the unknown fate of Chongqing Headquarters.

Zuo Qiuming offered some solace, confirming that Gu Shenyan was safe and alive after rescuing them. Lin Nansheng's lung injury was severe, causing him difficulty breathing and pain. Later, Lin Nansheng noticed Kato Koji trying to access his medical records, but a nurse intervened, reminding Kato Koji that patient information was confidential. Kato Koji, still suspicious, merely claimed there was "something odd" about the Chinese man. Eventually, Old Pan met Gu Shenyan at a discreet location.

Gu Shenyan explained that he was there to discuss a business deal and offered a batch of Hanyang 88 rifles. Old Pan expressed his distrust, recalling Gu Shenyan’s previous refusals to sell him goods. Gu Shenyan reiterated his offer of Hanyang 88, hinting at the urgency of the matter.

Gu Shenyan approached Boss Wu, a dealer in firearms, offering to sell him a batch of Hanyang 88 rifles at a reduced price in exchange for gold. Boss Wu, pleased with the prospect of making a fortune from the highly sought-after weapons, agreed to the deal. He handed over three gold bars from Baofu Pavilion, each weighing 76 grams, as a deposit.

Gu Shenyan instructed him to pick up ten initial guns from under a tree 100 meters from the east wall of Xiren Infectious Disease Hospital the following evening, promising the remaining 90 if the deal went well. Immediately after their meeting, Gu Shenyan called the Special Higher Police to tip them off about Boss Wu's activities.

The next evening, as Boss Wu and his men were digging up the buried guns, they were ambushed and arrested by the Special Higher Police. Unaware that Gu Shenyan had betrayed him, Boss Wu, desperate to clear his name, informed his captors that the guns were being supplied by Gu Shenyan, the deputy station chief of the Military Intelligence Bureau's Shanghai division. He reiterated his connections to Mitsui Bussan's opium trade and his service to the Japanese Imperial Army.

Soon after, a Military Intelligence Bureau insider relayed this information to Zhou Yaoting, who then contacted Commissioner Dai Li to report Gu Shenyan's alleged gun trafficking. Meanwhile, Lin Nansheng insisted on being discharged from the Japanese Army Hospital, despite his severe injuries. Zuo Qiuming, his liaison, initially hesitated, noting that Dr. Suzuki did not approve given Lin Nansheng's condition.

However, Lin Nansheng pleaded, explaining that the emotional pain of remaining in the Japanese hospital was far worse than any physical discomfort. Zuo Qiuming eventually relented, promising to secure his discharge for the following day. Before leaving the hospital, Lin Nansheng saw Kato Koji smoking on the rooftop, leaning on a dilapidated railing marked with a "Danger" sign.

Lin Nansheng approached him, feigning a farewell, and after thanking Kato for his care, he abruptly pushed him off the roof, killing him in an act of vengeance. Lin Nansheng then managed to sneak back to his ward, but his severe injuries caused him to collapse in the bathroom, a fortunate turn of events that led the Japanese to believe he had fainted due to weakness and not suspect his involvement in Kato's death.

Zuo Qiuming explained to the doctor that Lin Nansheng had not eaten well and felt dizzy, which caused his collapse. He convinced the doctor that Lin Nansheng's "father" wanted him home for other plans, leading the doctor to approve the discharge with a recommendation for a desk job. Zuo Qiuming then confronted Lin Nansheng, scolding him for risking exposure. Lin Nansheng explained that Kato Koji had been investigating him, and if he had continued, Zuo Qiuming could have been implicated.

After his discharge, Zuo Qiuming drove Lin Nansheng to a new residence in Hong Kong. Along the way, Lin Nansheng witnessed Japanese soldiers arbitrarily arresting civilians under the guise of a "repatriation policy" to meet quotas for deportation to the Mainland. Zuo Qiuming showed Lin Nansheng his new apartment, complete with a radio for receiving orders and a codebook.

Lin Nansheng's identity was formally transferred to the Hong Kong station under the new name Lu Yuntang, with Zuo Qiuming as his designated liaison and call sign 316. Lin Nansheng felt that "Pang Jia Jun" was gone, and now only "Lu Yuntang" remained. Zuo Qiuming advised him to familiarize himself with the area, but Lin Nansheng felt an escape route was pointless given his fragile state.

Zuo Qiuming noted a change in Lin Nansheng, seeing him as someone who seemed to be giving up, unlike his past resilient self. He assured Lin Nansheng that the station would not assign him immediate tasks and promised to visit often, urging him to recover. That night, tormented by pain, Lin Nansheng went to a drugstore to buy painkillers. The clerk refused to sell them without a resident identity card.

As Lin Nansheng left, the store owner called him back, discreetly handing him two packs of painkillers, explaining he couldn't sell them earlier due to Japanese customers inside. The owner refused payment and advised Lin Nansheng to always carry his identity card to avoid trouble. Meanwhile, Zhu Yizhen, now living under the name Shen Yujing, was recovering from her injuries. She had received no news of Lin Nansheng and cherished the butterfly brooch he had given her.

She sought out various silversmiths to repair the delicate brooch, but no one in Jiaxing was capable of fixing it, suggesting she try Shanghai instead. Later, Shen Yujing received vital intelligence about the Japanese 23rd Army, noting that four battalions of the 8th Brigade and a signals unit had been transferred from Guangzhou to Hainan. She concluded this was likely preparation for attacks against Guangzhouwan and Leizhou Peninsula, a development she deemed critical.

She promised to report it to the station immediately and telegraph Chongqing. Back in Shanghai, military intelligence agents, led by Captain Ji, arrived to arrest Gu Shenyan. Gu Shenyan feigned surprise at being woken up and questioned Captain Ji's intentions. Soon, Wang Shi'an appeared, confirming that Chongqing wanted Gu Shenyan for investigation, with personnel arriving the next day. Wang Shi'an ordered Gu Shenyan to be held until then.

Wang Shi'an urged Gu Shenyan to confess, promising to report his "voluntary surrender" to alleviate his guilt. Gu Shenyan, however, feigned ignorance, reminding Wang of their shared past and asking what he was guilty of. Wang Shi'an remained firm, stating that Gu Shenyan would have to explain himself to headquarters, but promised to report his situation truthfully.

After their conversation, Wang Shi'an instructed his subordinate to prepare all evidence of Gu Shenyan's defalcation and old debts for Chongqing, expressing confidence that Gu Shenyan, despite his past contributions and connections, would not escape punishment given Commissioner Dai's crackdown on internal misconduct. In Hong Kong, Zuo Qiuming visited Lin Nansheng again, inquiring if he had any news of Zhu Yizhen. Lin Nansheng admitted there was none.

Zuo Qiuming then instructed him to report to work at a trading company the following day, explaining it was a normal job to avoid suspicion from neighbors, not a mission. Lin Nansheng resisted, stating he couldn't bear seeing daily news of Japanese atrocities or their soldiers on the streets, feeling it was "killing him." He pleaded with Zuo Qiuming for any mission, no matter how simple, expressing that merely eating and sleeping was ruining him.

Zuo Qiuming sternly reminded him that as special agents, they must endure anger, anxiety, depression, and pain beyond what ordinary people experience, and that they do not live solely for themselves. Lin Nansheng eventually agreed to work at the company, though he remained visibly distracted. Later, while tuning his radio at home, he stumbled upon Yan'an Xinhua Radio broadcasting "On Protracted War."

The broadcast addressed the anxieties of the Chinese people regarding the war, challenging notions of quick victory or subjugation, and explaining the necessity and methodology of a protracted conflict. Lin Nansheng listened intently, deeply touched by the message.

As the workday concluded, Lin Nansheng received a call from Zuo Qiuming, who asked him to meet by the Wutong River. Zuo Qiuming assigned Lin Nansheng an urgent task: to analyze a batch of Japanese intelligence. Noticing a significant change in Lin Nansheng's demeanor, Zuo Qiuming inquired about the cause. Lin Nansheng, unable to contain his excitement, shared his recent discovery of "On Protracted War" from Yan'an Xinhua Radio.

He expressed profound admiration for Mao Zedong, whom he regarded as a great strategist and prophet. Lin Nansheng pointed out that Mao Zedong had accurately predicted the outbreak of war in Europe in 1938 and foresaw Japan's attack on Nanyang and its conflict with the British and Americans once the European war began. Lin Nansheng felt reignited, having found a renewed sense of purpose and hope after feeling lost in the face of the invaders.

Zuo Qiuming affirmed this, agreeing that "the soldiers and the people are the foundation for victory." Their discussion solidified their belief that "China must win, Japan must lose," a phrase they enthusiastically declared together. To commemorate Lin Nansheng's "rebirth," Zuo Qiuming presented him with a new pen, a gesture that deepened their bond. This was the second time Zuo Qiuming had given Lin Nansheng a pen, and Lin Nansheng treasured it as a symbol of their friendship.

From that day forward, Lin Nansheng began listening to the Yan'an broadcasts nightly, finding solace and direction in his difficult life. Meanwhile, Wang Shi'an, under the pretense of phone repairs, sent someone to deliver Chen Moqun a letter of appointment and a special radio from Chongqing. The commission appointed Chen Moqun as the chairman of the Shanghai Enemy Rear Working Committee, tasking him with maintaining contact with Chongqing using the provided radio, wavelengths, call signs, and codebook.

In Guangzhou, Liang Kai, an intelligence officer gathering information, was captured by the Japanese. Under severe torture, Liang Kai eventually confessed his mission to spy on the Japanese troop deployment in Guangzhou and revealed details about the Military Intelligence Bureau in Hong Kong, implicating Zuo Qiuming. Zuo Qiuming had arranged to meet Lin Nansheng at the Family Coffee shop. Seeing Japanese agents ambushing the area, Zuo Qiuming realized he had been betrayed.

To protect Lin Nansheng, he deliberately approached a Japanese customer and, speaking in Nanjing dialect, covertly conveyed a crucial message to Lin Nansheng: instructions to retrieve an item from mailbox 3-18 at the Robinson Road Post Office, leave a white paper, and forget about him, urging him to leave quickly. In the ensuing chaos, Zuo Qiuming was shot while trying to escape and was dragged away by the Japanese, leaving Lin Nansheng to witness his capture from the doorway.

Lin Nansheng, helpless to intervene and aware of the importance of Zuo Qiuming's message, forced himself to leave quickly. Days later, Zuo Qiuming lay in a hospital bed, seemingly recovering, but enduring horrific torture. The Japanese agents would allow his wounds to heal slightly, then deliberately tear them open again before forcing doctors to re-stitch them without anesthetic, inflicting unbearable pain.

Despite this brutal treatment, Zuo Qiuming remained silent, refusing to disclose any information about the Military Intelligence Bureau in Hong Kong. On the third night, after the doctor and nurse had left, Zuo Qiuming made a resolute decision. He pulled out his IV drip, covered his head with a bedsheet, and, enduring intense pain, tore open his abdominal wound with his hands, severing his intestines. He bled to death in the darkness.

The following morning, Lin Nansheng saw a "Claiming of Body" notice published by the Japanese in the newspaper, recognizing the familiar grayscale photograph of Zuo Qiuming. This marked their permanent farewell. Later that afternoon, as the sun set over the Wutong River, Lin Nansheng stood alone at the bank, overcome with sorrow, the usual comfort of their shared spot now a poignant reminder of his loss. Following Zuo Qiuming's instructions, Lin Nansheng retrieved documents from the post office.

He waited three days at home, but no one came to claim them. Angered and frustrated, Lin Nansheng stormed into the Hong Kong Military Intelligence Bureau station, demanding an explanation from the station chief. The chief, however, showed Lin Nansheng a stack of surveillance photos depicting Zuo Qiuming secretly meeting with various individuals, including Zhu Yizhen, whom Lin Nansheng hadn't seen in a long time.

The station chief declared that the people in the photos were not KMT agents, nor from the Central Bureau of Investigation and Statistics, and Zuo Qiuming had never been assigned to contact outsiders. This strongly implied he might be a double agent with Communist ties. The chief also informed Lin Nansheng that Gu Shenyan had been sent back to Chongqing for investigation due to corruption, dismissing him for inspection.

Out of respect for Gu Shenyan, the chief chose not to pursue any potential issues with Lin Nansheng but warned him to stop causing trouble and comply with the station's orders. Despite his reluctance to believe it, Lin Nansheng returned home and meticulously compared the documents, confirming Zuo Qiuming's Communist identity. The next day, near the post office, Lin Nansheng waited for the person meant to pick up the documents.

To his astonishment, it was Ji Zhongyuan, whom he believed had died in the Shanghai explosion. Ji Zhongyuan, observing Lin Nansheng following him, called him out and led him to Zuo Qiuming's grave, where the Communist Party had buried him after the charity handled his body. Ji Zhongyuan explained that Zuo Qiuming had deliberately sacrificed himself at the cafe to protect Lin Nansheng and others from the Japanese.

He also recounted his own survival from the Shanghai frame trading shop bombing, revealing that he had used a hidden bomb and escaped through a blasted wall. Ji Zhongyuan informed Lin Nansheng that Zhu Yizhen was alive, had been recovering, and was now fully healthy. Concerned about Zhu Yizhen, Lin Nansheng warned Ji Zhongyuan about the KMT's surveillance photos of her with Zuo Qiuming at De Li Pawnshop and advised her to reduce her activities.

He also handed over the intelligence analysis report that Zuo Qiuming had left for him, which detailed the Japanese 23rd Army's directions and movements in Guangzhouwan and Leizhou Peninsula, hoping it would assist their cause. Ji Zhongyuan expressed gratitude, noting that the information could save many lives, and told Lin Nansheng that he could reach out to him anytime for the good of the country. Simultaneously, Zhu Yizhen arrived in Hong Kong to meet with Meng Annan, a comrade with significant combat experience, to discuss the evacuation plan for Zhu Xiaotian and other comrades.

Zhu Yizhen met with her comrades in Hong Kong and reported to Ji Zhongyuan on the situation. During their conversation, Ji Zhongyuan informed her that Lin Nansheng was also in Hong Kong and was recovering well, bringing her a sense of relief. Zhu Yizhen conveyed her concern for her father, Zhu Xiaoxian, who had consistently rejected overtures from the Japanese puppet government and was now under house arrest.

Ji Zhongyuan assured her that their party would not abandon patriots like Zhu Xiaoxian and others who had contributed to the resistance. Meng Annan then led Zhu Yizhen to Zhu Xiaoxian's residence, detailing the Japanese surveillance: three guards at the gate and three Special Higher Police agents in a car nearby. Meng Annan, disguised as a doctor from Kadoorie Hospital, gained entry to the house.

When Zhu Xiaoxian questioned his identity, Meng Annan relayed a childhood memory from Zhu Yizhen about their trip to the Great World and their home phone number, 2039, to prove his connection. Meng Annan then instructed Zhu Xiaoxian to call the hospital to cancel the doctor's visit and inform the Japanese guards that a nurse would deliver his medication. This allowed Zhu Yizhen to enter the house, disguised as a nurse, and reunite with her father.

Their reunion was brief and emotional, with Zhu Xiaoxian noting her calloused hands and Zhu Yizhen expressing concern for his health. Inside, Zhu Yizhen proposed a plan to her father, who was refusing to be a traitor by taking up the post of President of the Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce and Trade.

She suggested he pretend to accept the Japanese demand to become the president, and even convince other businessmen like Uncle Qian and Uncle Xu to become vice presidents, to lower the Japanese guard. She planned to use the chaos of the signing ceremony as an opportunity for his escape. However, the plan was complicated when Meng Annan informed Zhu Yizhen via phone that the Japanese had moved the signing date forward to the next day.

The guards remained in place, and Zhu Xiaoxian could not leave. Zhu Yizhen conveyed her deep worry for her father to Ji Zhongyuan, emphasizing how Zhu Xiaoxian had always supported her ambitions despite his concern for her safety. Meng Annan also requested to join the evacuation and go to the mainland base to participate in the war of resistance, stating his superiors had agreed.

Ji Zhongyuan approved, noting that Meng Annan's assistance would be valuable for their journey beyond Guangzhou, where the East River Column comrades could only escort them. Ji Zhongyuan then tasked Lin Nansheng with an urgent mission. Using a phone, Ji Zhongyuan asked Lin Nansheng to create fifteen Japanese home return permits for the evacuees by 10 AM the next morning at Wan Chai Pier 3, as their previous source through the East River Column was no longer viable.

Lin Nansheng diligently recorded the names and details provided, such as Lin Dai Shui, a 52-year-old male from Shanghai County, Jiangsu; Lin Shu Yi, a 27-year-old female from Shanghai County, Jiangsu; and Jiang Zhi Chao, a male from Lian County, Guangdong. Meng Annan, with Zhu Yizhen's consent, visited a news agency and placed an advertisement, signed "Chen An Nan," informing Chen Moqun of his departure to the mainland.

Meanwhile, Lin Nansheng received a deciphered telegram revealing that Gu Shenyan had been brought back to Chongqing for investigation on corruption allegations. Concerned, Lin Nansheng approached his station chief and requested to be transferred back to Chongqing. He used his incomplete recovery from injuries as a pretext, explaining that he was discharged early from the hospital and had been working continuously, fearing his identity might be exposed if he collapsed.

He also boldly invoked Commissioner Dai, reminding the chief of his heroics in assassinating Uemura Netto. The station chief, frustrated, agreed to report his request to higher authority but forbade Lin Nansheng from returning to the office until a reply was received. The next day, Zhu Xiaoxian, adhering to the plan, attended the signing ceremony.

After receiving the letter of appointment from Mr. Morikawa and delivering a speech where he feigned cooperation with the Japanese economic strategy, Zhu Xiaoxian began to cough incessantly, feigning illness. He announced he needed to go to the hospital immediately but would grant an interview to one newspaper reporter on the way. He pointedly chose Meng Annan, who was disguised as a reporter. As they left, a Japanese officer was assigned by Morikawa to escort Zhu Xiaoxian.

Meng Annan quickly eliminated the Japanese agent discreetly and drove Zhu Xiaoxian to the pier to rendezvous with the others. Lin Nansheng arrived at the pier with the permits, carefully hiding them in the crevice of a rickshaw to pass a Japanese inspection, before retrieving them and delivering them to Ji Zhongyuan. He also handed over five blank permits.

Ji Zhongyuan instructed Lin Nansheng to go to the middle of the second floor of the dock two minutes before the ship sailed. Zhu Yizhen distributed the permits to everyone, including her father and Meng Annan, instructing them to board the ship separately. As the ship was about to depart, Zhu Yizhen heard Lin Nansheng's voice from the pier.

She pinned the butterfly brooch Lin Nansheng had given her onto her clothes, found a pretext to go to the deck, and scanned the crowd, finally spotting him. They exchanged a silent, tearful gaze across the water, content to know each other was safe. After the ship departed, Lin Nansheng received his own transfer order from Chongqing via radio, instructing him to report back immediately via Route A.

He met with Ji Zhongyuan at their usual spot by the wutong riverbank to bid farewell. Lin Nansheng expressed his desire to follow Zuo Qiuming's path and work for the Communist Party, admitting he needed more time to fully commit due to his past with the Secret Service, Military Intelligence Bureau. Ji Zhongyuan, understanding the internal conflict, told him to go to Chongqing first.

When he was ready to make the decision, he should publish a poem titled "Guandukou" under the name Huang Yunsheng in the Central Daily News, and someone would contact him. Ji Zhongyuan then recited parts of the poem, emphasizing its significance as a signal to the party. He looked forward to the day they could call each other comrades. Lin Nansheng then went to Zuo Qiuming's grave.

He ate a piece of cake, a sweet treat he previously disliked, as a silent promise to his fallen comrade, vowing to continue their shared path and reunite someday. Soon after, Lin Nansheng reported to the personnel department in Chongqing, where he was assigned as a technical instructor for the operation squad at the Preparatory Office of the Sino-American Cooperative Organization in Yangjiashan. He learned that his file had been converted from a non-disclosure to an open personnel unit.

Upon reporting, he was to meet Director Bai Xian Ming, the former dean of a special training class in Nanjing. Lin Nansheng also inquired about the detention center for reprimanded internal personnel, and was told it was usually Wanglongmen Detention Center, indicating his continued concern for Gu Shenyan.

After arriving in Chongqing, Lin Nansheng spent a restless night. The next morning, he went to the Inspection Department to see Director Hu but was informed of his unavailability. As he was leaving, his former colleague, Sis Zhang, from the Shanghai station's telecommunication department, recognized him and greeted him warmly, inviting him to lunch. During their meal, Sis Zhang commented on Chongqing's peaceful atmosphere compared to Shanghai and expressed disbelief regarding the corruption accusations against Deputy Chief Gu Shenyan.

Lin Nansheng then inquired about Lan Xinjie, asking if she was among those evacuated from Shanghai. Sis Zhang confirmed that Lan Xinjie had brought her child, but a guard officer forcibly separated them, preventing the child from leaving Shanghai. Sis Zhang described Lan Xinjie's heartbroken state during the journey and mentioned hearing that Lan Xinjie later worked as an operator at the headquarters due to being a late soldier's wife.

She suggested Lin Nansheng could inquire at the headquarters to find her. Lin Nansheng eventually managed to meet Director Hu. Lin introduced himself and immediately brought up Deputy Chief Gu Shenyan's case, stating that as a long-time colleague, he was certain Gu Shenyan was not corrupt and believed there must be a misunderstanding. Director Hu acknowledged Lin's concern and handed him Gu Shenyan's file, instructing him to read it thoroughly and offer his opinion.

Hu emphasized that, given Lin's history with the Shanghai station, he would know Gu Shenyan best, presenting this as a show of trust from their superiors. After settling in, Lin Nansheng attended a banquet where he was warmly greeted by his former Nanjing Special Training Class instructor, Bai Xianming. Bai praised Lin's military achievements and introduced him to several colleagues from the Sino-American Cooperative Organization preparatory office.

When a toast was offered in honor of Lin’s contributions, particularly his role in Uemura Netto’s assassination, Lin politely declined, citing his current health. Bai interceded, explaining Lin's previous injury and drinking on his behalf. Later, Bai pulled Lin aside and advised him about the political landscape in Chongqing. He stressed the importance of their international cooperative organization, especially to Chairman Jiang.

Bai then brought up Gu Shenyan's case, revealing that the specifics of his alleged corruption were not the core issue. He explained that Gu Shenyan was being used as a public example, a "worthy sacrifice" to deter corruption within the party, and warned Lin not to jeopardize his own promising future over such a "minor matter," especially since his attitude towards the case would be closely watched.

Lin, though acknowledging his understanding, still expressed concern that some accusations in the files seemed false. As Lin Nansheng processed this, he noticed Lan Xinjie, elegantly dressed, descending a staircase with several male officers. Nearby, a group of male officers openly mocked her, labeling her a socialite who only associated with high-ranking officials and speculating about her financial gains.

Outraged, Lin Nansheng interrupted them, declaring that Lan Xinjie was the widow of a soldier who sacrificed his life in Nanjing, and that she had contributed to the Military Intelligence Bureau, thus deserving their respect. Embarrassed by the public confrontation, Lan Xinjie quickly announced her departure. Lin Nansheng pursued her, apologizing for his outburst and asking about rumors that she had been fired.

Lan Xinjie, however, avoided discussing her situation, briefly asked about his arrival, and then, after being called by a foreign officer, promised to treat Lin to a meal another day before getting into a car and leaving. Unknown to Lin, Lan Xinjie was in tears on her way back. Lin Nansheng diligently reviewed Gu Shenyan's files, even consulting records from the Shanghai station, and found what he believed to be inconsistencies.

He reported to Director Hu that many of the accusations against Gu Shenyan seemed false, suggesting he was being framed. However, Director Hu was unimpressed, stating that the higher-ups expected him to find evidence of corruption, not to question the validity of the existing claims or protect a "corrupted officer." He dismissed Lin, telling him to return once he had "made up his mind."

Undeterred, Lin Nansheng then sought an audience with Deputy Chief Zhou Yaoting, responsible for the Inspection Department. He presented his findings, highlighting discrepancies like the alleged embezzlement of compensation money for the August 13th Incident victims, where the reported amount exceeded what the station had actually received.

However, Zhou Yaoting reiterated that Gu Shenyan was clearly corrupted, citing the illegal sale of firearms as a death-penalty offense, and instructed Lin to focus on finding more incriminating evidence, not disputing the charges. Later, Bai Xianming confronted Lin, having heard about his attempts to "complain" to Deputy Chief Zhou. Bai explained that Gu Shenyan's case was a high-level political decision.

Mr. Dai intended to use Gu Shenyan's punishment as a severe deterrent to combat corruption, meaning the case was "fixed," and no amount of evidence could alter the outcome or save Gu Shenyan from the death penalty. Lin was aghast, calling it the killing of an innocent man, but Bai dismissed his arguments. Bai further warned Lin against meddling, reminding him of the political implications for Director Hu and himself, and urged him to consider his own future.

Lin, however, maintained that he hadn't joined the organization solely for personal advancement. After considerable internal conflict and disappointment with the Chongqing authorities' handling of Gu Shenyan's case, Lin Nansheng made a decisive choice about his path. The following morning, he went to Director Hu, apologizing for his previous "unruly behavior." He then requested permission to personally interrogate Gu Shenyan, arguing that his familiarity with Gu Shenyan's past operations would allow him to uncover more details.

Director Hu cautiously agreed, after warning Lin against letting personal feelings interfere with his work, and reminded him that finding the firearms Gu Shenyan allegedly sold would be key to closing the case. Lin promised to be merciless if he found any corruption. Lin Nansheng proceeded with the interrogation of Gu Shenyan, while Director Hu secretly listened in. Lin confronted Gu Shenyan with the accusations from the files, including embezzling compensation money, selling firearms, and a high-power radio.

Gu Shenyan denied the embezzlement, implying others were responsible, and explained that the radio was sold by someone from the Special Higher Police who then framed him. Regarding the firearms, Gu Shenyan stated he had sent them to the Loyal Salvation Army and accused the black market dealer, Xu Ah Da, of framing him due to a past arrest.

Lin tried to prompt Gu Shenyan to defend himself by appealing to his past service under Minister He, subtly hinting that he should seek help from powerful connections. However, Director Hu, having overheard the entire exchange, furiously reprimanded Lin Nansheng. He accused Lin of not genuinely interrogating Gu Shenyan but rather attempting to "point him in the right direction" and "collude" to free him by hinting at Minister He's involvement.

Lin tried to explain his genuine belief that the case was flawed, but Hu cut him off, forbidding him from further involvement in the investigation and angrily dismissing him. Undeterred by the reprimand, Lin Nansheng spent the night organizing all the evidence he had found. The next day, he waited a long time to see Minister He, but was told by Secretary Liu that the Minister was too busy.

Lin then entrusted Secretary Liu with a detailed letter outlining Gu Shenyan's alleged corruption cases, with specific rebuttals, asking him to deliver it to Minister He. Later, Lin Nansheng sought out Lan Xinjie and apologized for inadvertently involving her as an informant, which he felt had led to her current hardships. Lan Xinjie, initially reluctant to discuss her situation, eventually recounted her ordeal.

During the evacuation from Shanghai, her son, Zi Lu, was forcibly separated from her by a guard officer who feared his crying would attract Japanese attention and jeopardize the boat. She was threatened with a gun and forced to proceed to Chongqing alone. Upon arrival, she worked as an operator but was later fired by the Inspection Department for sending money to Zi Lu in Shanghai, as this was deemed "helping the enemies" in occupied territory.

She then tried to join the 192nd Division, hoping to return to Shanghai and reunite with her son, but was rejected due to her prior dismissal from the Military Intelligence Bureau. Unable to return or send money directly, she resorted to paying half her earnings to intermediaries to deliver funds to Zi Lu's nanny. While she spoke, an air raid alarm blared, forcing them into a shelter.

Inside, a distraught woman frantically searched for her lost child, "Long Long," crying and pleading with guards to let her out, terrified he would die. Lan Xinjie observed this heartbreaking scene, noting that such tragedies were commonplace in Chongqing, and recalled her own desperate pleas for Zi Lu, which were met with threats of death. Despite her dire circumstances, she stated that as long as she and Zi Lu were alive, it was enough for her.

Deeply moved by her story and the plight of the refugees, Lin Nansheng promised to find a way to help her return to Shanghai to see her son, though Lan Xinjie cautioned him against interfering.

Lin Nansheng found Lan Xinjie and promised to find a way to help her return to Shanghai and reunite with her child. However, Lan Xinjie refused his help, explaining that the bureau considered such an act a grave offense and would treat it as treason, with severe penalties. Lin Nansheng then offered her some money, pointing out the inadequacy and sporadic nature of their pension distributions. Lan Xinjie declined the money as well.

She clarified that she did not regret her past actions for them and understood the bureau's discipline, including being separated from her child and forbidden from sending him money. Yet, she expressed her deep frustration and disappointment, having witnessed officials at clubs indulging in lavish meals and drinks while her husband died fighting Japanese soldiers and no pensions were paid during the war. She asserted that she could manage on her own in Chongqing.

Meanwhile, Headquarters continued to pressure for a quick resolution to Gu Shenyan's case. Chief He Ying Qin had returned Lin Nansheng's letter, a sign that no high-level intervention would occur. Zhou Yaoting, under orders from an impatient Commissioner Dai Li, commanded his subordinates to torture Gu Shenyan to extract a confession. Zhou Yaoting expressed frustration with Lin Nansheng, calling him "stubborn" for persistently defending Gu Shenyan, and ordered him to stay out of the matter.

Lin Nansheng attempted to see Chief He again, but was stopped and advised that no one, not even the Chairman, could change the course of events. Lin Nansheng fiercely argued that he knew the true embezzler was not Gu Shenyan, pointing out that salaries were still being claimed for deceased members of the 5th Communications Group.

He condemned the bureau for planting evidence on Gu Shenyan, whose war injuries, he claimed, weighed more than the gold they accused him of stealing. His colleague Bai Xianming explained that while the higher authority was determined to punish corruption, subordinates were eager to claim credit, and no one cared about Gu Shenyan’s contributions or sacrifices.

He warned Lin Nansheng to abandon the case and think of his own future, as Lin Nansheng's closeness to Gu Shenyan and his current defense made him a potential accomplice. He suggested Lin Nansheng interrogate Gu Shenyan himself, as getting a confession would bring him credit, but failing would lead to his own demise as an accomplice. Lin Nansheng, disillusioned by this blatant disregard for justice, questioned if such actions constituted serving the country.

His colleague advised him that in their current situation, survival was paramount, but Lin Nansheng countered that "to live, there must be hope." His repeated experiences of witnessing the KMT officials' corruption and the sacrifice of his comrade Zuo Qiuming, coupled with the injustice towards Gu Shenyan, ultimately broke his spirit and solidified his decision to join the Communist Party. Following instructions from Ji Zhongyuan, Lin Nansheng published the poem "Guandukou" in the Central Daily News.

Soon after, Yu Zhengwen, representing the Chuandong Special Committee of the Communist Party's South Bureau, contacted Lin Nansheng. He confirmed that they had been awaiting the poem and expressed their understanding of Lin Nansheng’s principled and aspiring character, noting that Ji Zhongyuan had been planning his recruitment for a long time. The plan had been delayed due to Lin Nansheng's injury and transfer to Hong Kong.

Yu Zhengwen informed him that Ji Zhongyuan would serve as his referee, and from then on, Yu Zhengwen would be his sole liaison in Chongqing. Lin Nansheng expressed his gratitude and solemnly declared his complete break from the Nationalist Party, pledging to fight wholeheartedly for the liberation of the country and its people.

Facing towards Yan'an, Lin Nansheng took the oath, vowing to adhere to party discipline, not fear hardship or sacrifice, and to fight to the end for the Communist cause. Immediately after his induction, Lin Nansheng urgently informed Yu Zhengwen about Gu Shenyan's perilous situation, requesting the party verify if he was "Mailman" and arrange for his rescue.

Even if Gu Shenyan was not a comrade, Lin Nansheng implored the party to save him, recognizing him as a man of integrity falsely accused and facing imminent execution, suggesting he could be recruited. Yu Zhengwen promised to relay the urgent request and verify his identity with the party at once. Following his meeting, Lin Nansheng approached Director Hu, offering his services to extract a confession from Gu Shenyan.

However, Director Hu angrily informed him that Gu Shenyan had escaped during a morning bombing, using the air raid as cover while the guards sought shelter. Director Hu immediately ordered a city-wide search by the gendarmes. Lin Nansheng, unable to find Gu Shenyan, drove around the city. While he was speaking with a searching officer, who explained that they were looking for a high-priority fugitive and had found no trace despite extensive searches, Gu Shenyan subtly entered Lin Nansheng's car.

They drove to a safe room, where Lin Nansheng acknowledged Gu Shenyan as "Comrade Mailman," having seen the poem and received confirmation from the party. Lin Nansheng told Gu Shenyan that his escape was perfectly timed, as he had learned about the impending torture. He planned to intervene in the case, stall for time, and then rescue him.

Gu Shenyan, however, asked Lin Nansheng to stop trying to clear his name, revealing that Lin Nansheng was already under suspicion as an accomplice. Gu Shenyan disclosed that he had stored a cache of guns and gold bars at No.53 Rue Ratard in Shanghai. He instructed Lin Nansheng to expose this "embezzlement" after his death.

This, he explained, would serve two purposes: firstly, to dissociate Lin Nansheng from the case, and secondly, to provide a stepping stone for his future promotion within the bureau. Lin Nansheng questioned why Gu Shenyan wanted to be branded an embezzler when he was clearly being framed. Gu Shenyan explained that KMT suspicions about his true identity began years ago when he provided a radio to Ji Zhongyuan.

Only by solidifying his image as a corrupt official could he dispel these suspicions. He further elaborated that in 1938, six sleeper agents were transferred to Yan'an through him. These agents had since been turned and were feeding false intelligence to the KMT. If he were to disappear without a clear reason, the KMT would immediately suspect his true loyalty, label him a defector to the Communists under a high threat alert, and cut off contact with these valuable agents.

For the sake of preserving this crucial intelligence line and protecting the comrades involved, Gu Shenyan was prepared to die. He reiterated that he was ready for any sacrifice, emphasizing that this was the "easiest and most effective way" to ensure the line's safety. He implored Lin Nansheng to convey to the party his suggestion that Lin Nansheng inherit the "Mailman" code name. Lin Nansheng adamantly refused to let Gu Shenyan sacrifice himself, insisting they would find another way.

Gu Shenyan urged Lin Nansheng to believe in himself and keep going, then slipped away, asking Lin Nansheng to wait. As search personnel stormed the building, Lin Nansheng tried to distract them by asking for tea and engaging an officer in a conversation about a personal favor. Taking advantage of the diversion, Gu Shenyan deliberately exposed himself to the enemy downstairs. He was gunned down while attempting to flee.

Lin Nansheng pursued him, witnessing Gu Shenyan's bloody collapse, and then swiftly left, his emotions completely overwhelming him once he was out of sight, sinking into a corner to weep uncontrollably. Following Gu Shenyan's sacrifice, Lin Nansheng submitted a report to Zhou Yaoting and Director Hu, "confessing" that while he couldn't extract anything from Gu Shenyan during interrogation, Gu Shenyan's subsequent absconding proved his guilt.

He then "recalled" the likely hiding place for the stolen goods: No.53 Rue Ratard in Shanghai, presenting a detailed report. Zhou Yaoting, previously frustrated by the lack of evidence for Gu Shenyan's corruption, was delighted by this new information. Lin Nansheng was subsequently commended for his "full dedication and excellent work" in the case and promoted to Lieutenant Colonel, gaining significant trust within the military.

Despite the profound grief over Gu Shenyan's death, the Communist Party honored his last wish, assigning Lin Nansheng the code name "Mailman" to continue the vital underground work. Lin Nansheng then arranged for Lan Xinjie to return to Shanghai. He invited her for a meal, telling her he had found a way to send her back.

He offered her his personal savings, but she declined, understanding that his "most trustworthy friends" (the Communist Party) involved in this risky favor did not want money. Lin Nansheng then personally escorted her to a car, and she was secretly transported out of Chongqing by the Communist Party, thus beginning Lin Nansheng's dual identity.

Time passed quickly, bringing the joyful news of Japan's unconditional surrender on August 15, 1945, marking the victorious end of China's War of Resistance against Japan and the World Anti-Fascist War. Lin Nansheng was overcome with emotion, shedding tears as he reflected on the years of hardship, sacrifice, and undercover work. In Shanghai, as Japanese forces began their withdrawal, Wang Shi'an officially took over the 76th Station.

Chen Moqun was appointed Deputy Commander of the Shanghai Operation Squad, tasked with preventing Japanese and collaborationist forces in Jiangsu and Zhejiang from surrendering to the Communist New Fourth Army. Wang Shi'an and Chen Moqun met in Shanghai for a handover. During a private conversation, Chen Moqun informed Wang Shi'an that headquarters had notified him of Lin Nansheng's imminent transfer back to Shanghai as the new Deputy Station Chief, acknowledging his rapid ascent within the Chongqing ranks.

Just a few years after the momentous victory of the Sino-Japanese War, Shanghai underwent drastic changes, yet the underlying conflict between the Nationalist and Communist parties persisted. Wang Shi'an was informed by Chen Moqun that Lin Nansheng would soon be transferred back to Shanghai as the deputy chief. Chen Moqun recounted Lin Nansheng's impressive track record in Chongqing, including his report on Gu Shenyan that led to Gu's downfall and his success in seizing Japanese spy radios.

Chen Moqun, despite noting Lin Nansheng's former close ties with Gu Shenyan, remarked that Lin Nansheng prioritized career over friendship. Wang Shi'an initially dismissed Lin Nansheng as a mere youth, but Chen Moqun urged caution, reminding him that a deputy chief position often leads to becoming a station chief.

As a gesture, Chen Moqun handed Wang Shi'an a list of prisoners, drawing particular attention to a man named Xiao Yun, who posed as a businessman but was, in fact, the head of the New Fourth Army's intelligence service. Chen Moqun presented Xiao Yun as a valuable asset to help Wang Shi'an solidify his standing, stressing that such a high-ranking New Fourth Army cadre had never been captured in Shanghai before.

Wang Shi'an thanked him, remarking on their shared duty to serve the party-state. However, Wang Shi'an remained suspicious of Chen Moqun's intentions, believing Xiao Yun couldn't be a truly important figure if Chen Moqun offered him so readily. Consequently, he assigned the interrogation of Xiao Yun to Director Liao Tong, a less competent officer, stating that Liao Tong deserved some credit for remaining in Shanghai during the war.

Meanwhile, Meng Annan contacted Chen Moqun by phone, reporting on the KMT's deployment of personnel to Shanghai via American planes and the Communist Party's defensive maneuvers. Meng Annan offered to expose Zhu Yizhen's location to conclude his deep-cover mission, and inquired about the Chongqing peace talks. Chen Moqun dismissed the idea of peace talks, citing the vast military disparity between the two parties.

Meng Annan expressed his desire to rejoin the Nationalist Party, lamenting that despite his efforts, he hadn't accessed core Communist Party intelligence and felt left behind by his classmates, many of whom had become generals. Chen Moqun retorted that many of those classmates were now dead, cautioning Meng Annan against reckless ambition. He stressed that Meng Annan's role would become crucial in the upcoming campaign to destroy the communists.

He instructed Meng Annan to maintain a strong relationship with Zhu Yizhen, as she was his pathway to advancing within the Communist Party. Chen Moqun then warned him against using the emergency number again, advising him to use newspaper notices for future contact. Zhu Yizhen and Meng Annan, in disguise as workers, observed the KMT Military Intelligence Bureau's new office at Router Doumer 70.

They witnessed Lin Nansheng, who had just arrived by plane and was now the deputy chief, entering the building. Zhu Yizhen noticed the moving personnel were from the Loyal Salvation Army. After confirming they hadn't been noticed, she and Meng Annan departed. Later, Zhu Yizhen met with Ji Zhongyuan, reporting on the KMT's new headquarters and the need to relocate nearby comrades and cease radio operations within a ten-kilometer radius.

She then revealed she had seen Lin Nansheng, now the deputy chief of Shanghai. Ji Zhongyuan acknowledged it had been years since their last encounter. Zhu Yizhen confessed that she still harbored feelings for Lin Nansheng, despite their differing political paths. She wished he were an ordinary person, but acknowledged he was not. She admitted that although she had mentally prepared for a reunion as enemies, seeing him again made her realize she couldn't fully detach herself emotionally.

Ji Zhongyuan, unable to reveal Lin Nansheng's true identity, reminded her that their chosen path required enduring loneliness that was unbearable for most. Lin Nansheng formally met with Wang Shi'an, maintaining a cordial facade. Wang Shi'an feigned warmth, advising Lin Nansheng to rest first, but Lin Nansheng insisted on prioritizing work. Lin Nansheng praised Wang Shi'an for his steadfastness in Shanghai during the war.

He presented transfer reports and personnel files for agents returning to Shanghai, assuring Wang Shi'an that work would commence swiftly with support from higher authorities. Lin Nansheng then conveyed Dai Li's directive to surpass the Communist Party in gaining public favor and to address unresolved bureau cases, especially regarding commissions issued by the Wang Jingwei regime. Wang Shi'an later learned from his subordinate that Lin Nansheng, while satisfied with his new office, had refused the settling-in allowance.

The new directors of the intelligence and telecommunication departments were Lin Nansheng's former Chongqing associates. Wang Shi'an, concerned about Lin Nansheng's growing influence backed by Dai Li, noted that only Director Liao Tong and Director Qin remained loyal to him among the veteran directors. Lin Nansheng had dinner with Zhao Jinglong, who mentioned his new role as squadron captain of the operation squad. Zhao Jinglong observed Wang Shi'an's wariness of Lin Nansheng.

He recounted the betrayal of the Press Service and expressed his conviction that Wang Shi'an had colluded with Chen Moqun by intervening on Chen's behalf in the Qingpu District. Zhao Jinglong suspected Wang Shi'an was responsible for leaking the Press Service's assassination plans. However, with Chen Moqun's current high-ranking position and the absence of other traitors, concrete evidence was lacking. Zhao Jinglong assured Lin Nansheng that an opportunity would arise.

Zhao Jinglong also mentioned that Jessfield 76 had received several Communist prisoners, and only Liao Tong was regularly visiting, seemingly desperate for promotion. Zhao Jinglong then showed Lin Nansheng a photo of his child, who Lin Nansheng found adorable but said didn't resemble him. Lin Nansheng subsequently went to Jessfield 76 to seal records. He learned Chen Moqun was absent, and Liao Tong was in the interrogation room.

Rushing there, Lin Nansheng discovered Liao Tong using two Japanese war criminals, transferred from a POW camp, to torture Xiao Yun. Two other prisoners were already dead, with one dying just that morning. Lin Nansheng confronted Liao Tong, condemning the use of Japanese war criminals for interrogation and the deaths of prisoners, suggesting it made Liao Tong appear to be a murderer. Liao Tong admitted to being overly anxious.

Lin Nansheng ordered the Japanese war criminals to be returned to the camp. Liao Tong immediately went to Wang Shi'an to complain, accusing Lin Nansheng of interfering with his interrogation and trying to assert his authority. Wang Shi'an, feigning support, promised to "have a good talk" with Lin Nansheng, implying he had reserved the deputy chief position for Liao Tong.

Liao Tong, touched by this, reaffirmed his eight years of loyalty and offered to share his ideas on Xiao Yun's case. Separately, Wang Shi'an received a report that Zhao Jinglong had unexpectedly visited Director Song of the Press Office that morning. Wang Shi'an suspected Zhao Jinglong was investigating the old Press Office assassination, linking it to Lin Nansheng's past suspicions of Wang Shi'an's betrayal. Fearing Director Song's timidity might lead to a leak, Wang Shi'an implicitly ordered Song's elimination.

Lin Nansheng visited Xiao Yun in the hospital. The doctor reported Xiao Yun had multiple wounds but needed time to recover due to his poor health. Lin Nansheng encouraged Xiao Yun to be grateful for the help and "give it a good thought." Xiao Yun, despite his severe injuries, continued to deny being a Communist, insisting he was merely a businessman. Later, Lin Nansheng met with Ji Zhongyuan using pre-arranged codewords, expressing his excitement to work with him.

Lin Nansheng inquired about the three captured Communist comrades. Ji Zhongyuan confirmed that two had died and their families would be contacted. He then asked about the third, Xiao Yun. Lin Nansheng revealed Xiao Yun was severely injured but had been admitted to the hospital, having endured brutal interrogations without yielding. He noted that Xiao Yun, the New Fourth Army intelligence director, was arrested after being reported by a deputy commander.

Lin Nansheng explained that Xiao Yun was heavily guarded, making rescue extremely difficult, and that KMT agents viewed him merely as a bargaining chip for promotion. Lin Nansheng admitted his strong desire to save Xiao Yun, but Ji Zhongyuan reminded him to prioritize protecting his own identity. Lin Nansheng acknowledged this, reflecting on Gu Shenyan's sacrifice and vowing to protect his "Mailman" identity at all costs.

He then asked about Zhu Yizhen, and Ji Zhongyuan assured him she was well and missed him, explaining that organizational rules prevented him from revealing more. Lin Nansheng expressed his contentment at knowing she was safe. A subsequent message from the organization appeared, instructing him to rescue "Comrade 301," implicitly referring to Xiao Yun. Lin Nansheng then visited Lan Xinjie and her son, Zi Lu. Lan Xinjie, surprised to see him, offered him water.

She explained that for the past two years, fearing Chen Moqun, she and Zi Lu had been in hiding, using her savings from Chongqing. After the Japanese surrender, she found work as a department store salesperson and rented a new home, finally feeling settled. Lin Nansheng asked about Zi Lu, who seemed withdrawn. Lan Xinjie tearfully recounted an incident where Japanese parents had slapped Zi Lu after he refused to give up his toy to their child.

The trauma caused Zi Lu to stop speaking, and despite visiting all available hospitals, doctors were uncertain if he would ever recover his speech. Lin Nansheng consoled her, promising to find the best doctor for Zi Lu. To further cultivate Wang Shi'an's trust and facilitate his mission, Lin Nansheng later visited Wang Shi'an, bringing green plants for his office, citing Wang Shi'an's weak lungs and the office's favorable environment.

He then presented an invitation card for a "Mid-Autumn Festival Roundtable Meeting," requested by headquarters, seeking Wang Shi'an's input. Wang Shi'an noted the meeting was for former Wang Jingwei regime personnel and questioned whether the purpose was to arrest them or simply engage in discussion.

Lin Nansheng suggested that since Liao Tong had made no significant progress, it would be better to transfer Xiao Yun's case to the intelligence department without delay. However, Wang Shi'an hesitated, revealing that Liao Tong had already traced Xiao Yun's hometown to Baoying County, which surprisingly aligned with earlier information from Chen Moqun. Wang Shi'an then dispatched Liao Tong's team to Baoying County to bring back Xiao Yun's family, hoping to use them as leverage.

Upon learning this, Lin Nansheng immediately informed Ji Zhongyuan. He explained that any further interference with Xiao Yun's case would arouse Wang Shi'an's suspicion. Ji Zhongyuan noted that they were in a passive position, and it was too late to arrange the transfer of Xiao Yun's family from Baoying County. In response, Lin Nansheng proposed a risky strategy, which would require Ji Zhongyuan's full cooperation.

Meanwhile, Wang Shi'an went to Chen Moqun's residence to personally withdraw the appointment letter issued during the war of resistance. Chen Moqun subtly tried to threaten Wang Shi'an, reminding him of their "little secret" and suggesting he wouldn't reveal it even if the central government turned on him. Wang Shi'an dismissed his concerns, assuring him the central government still needed experienced leaders. After obtaining the letter, Wang Shi'an instructed his men to closely monitor Chen Moqun.

He believed Chen Moqun was intelligent and, realizing his precarious position, would not passively await his fate. Therefore, if Chen Moqun showed any signs of fleeing Shanghai, they were to shoot him as a fugitive. After Wang Shi'an departed, Chen Moqun promptly contacted Meng Annan for an urgent meeting. Chen Moqun acknowledged that without the appointment letter, his words held no weight with the central government, which now considered him a traitor.

He told Meng Annan that while others might have guns and men, he had Meng Annan. He revealed a change in Meng Annan's mission, instructing him to quickly uncover core Communist Party members and crucial intelligence. This information would serve as Chen Moqun's bargaining chip in negotiations with Chongqing, ensuring both their protection. Meng Annan expressed difficulty in penetrating deeper due to strict party discipline, suggesting Zhu Yizhen was his only direct contact.

Chen Moqun dismissed this, telling Meng Annan to use his brain and act quickly, as time was running out. Later, Meng Annan returned home and frantically searched for the watch Chen Moqun had given him. Zhu Yizhen, who had tidied his room, calmly retrieved it from a cabinet, explaining she had put it away for safekeeping. Relieved that she hadn't discovered anything amiss, Meng Annan lied, claiming it was his brother's death anniversary and the watch was a cherished memento.

Zhu Yizhen, filled with sympathy, believed him. To further allay her suspicions, Meng Annan decided to leave the watch with her. At a dinner for the high-ranking officers of the Shanghai division, Liao Tong arrived late, having just returned from his mission. He announced a major breakthrough: Xiao Yun's real name was Weng Xian Rong, and he had successfully brought back Weng Xian Rong's wife. Liao Tong declared his intention to interrogate Weng Xian Rong immediately that night.

However, Wang Shi'an intervened, suggesting they focus on the celebration, as it was a memorable day for the Shanghai division, and postpone all work until the next day. Lin Nansheng, feigning a toast with tea due to a prior injury, supported Wang Shi'an's sentiment. Before Liao Tong could begin his interrogation, Lin Nansheng personally visited Weng Xian Rong in the interrogation room.

While appearing to simply chat, Lin Nansheng used Morse code, tapping out a message on the table to Weng Xian Rong. The message indicated, "Comrade 301, Fisherman sent his greetings," confirming Lin Nansheng's identity as a Communist agent. Weng Xian Rong, shocked and tearful, silently acknowledged the message, exchanging a meaningful glance with Lin Nansheng. Lin Nansheng discreetly instructed him to cooperate with the upcoming rescue plan.

Concurrently, Ji Zhongyuan informed Zhu Yizhen about an urgent and critical cover mission in Chengjiaqiao Town, instructing her to find a discreet, lived-in-looking deserted house. Zhu Yizhen then relayed the urgency and details to Meng Annan, stressing that no mistakes could be made. They were also told that two comrades from the labor movement group would join them, with Zhu Yizhen responsible for the overall arrangement and finishing touches.

Later, Liao Tong brought Weng Xian Rong's wife into the interrogation room, hoping to pressure him into confessing. She maintained she knew nothing about her husband's activities or his harpoon tattoo, claiming it was from a childhood gang. Wang Shi'an arrived to observe the interrogation. Becoming "impatient" with the wife's persistent denial, Lin Nansheng, in front of Wang Shi'an and others, appeared to shoot and kill Weng Xian Rong's wife, a deliberate act of intimidation.

Weng Xian Rong, terrified, finally broke and acknowledged his identity. Wang Shi'an, witnessing Lin Nansheng's ruthless methods, was visibly shocked and expressed his apprehension, remarking on how the former scholar had become even more brutal than himself. Lin Nansheng justified his actions by stating that the severity of the crime dictated the boundaries. Lin Nansheng then offered Weng Xian Rong a chance at reform and a promotion if he cooperated.

Weng Xian Rong "confessed" to being a Communist liaison and provided a location for a fake liaison station. Meng Annan, unaware of the true nature of the Chengjiaqiao Town operation, was involved in setting up the "liaison station." He secretly observed the situation as Liao Tong's team raided the location. The team was caught in an ambush, and many military intelligence agents were killed by grenades. Meng Annan realized the operation was specifically targeted at the Military Intelligence Bureau.

He promptly called Chen Moqun, informing him of the incident. Chen Moqun, who had intended to flee Shanghai by boat, immediately changed his plans upon receiving this valuable intelligence. He instructed Meng Annan to maintain his cover, anticipating more crucial information. Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner Zhou Yaoting arrived in Shanghai. He announced the imminent traitor purging campaign and appointed Wang Shi'an as Chairman and Lin Nansheng as a member of the Shanghai Committee of Traitor Purging.

He further revealed that Commander Xia's military police would be stationed in Shanghai that night, and arrests would be made directly at a roundtable meeting the following morning. Wang Shi'an, now deeply entrenched in the purging committee, recognized he could no longer have any contact with Chen Moqun and instructed his subordinates to do the same.

Chen Moqun, having received an invitation to the roundtable meeting, contemplated how to use the information he had, including the disappearance of Director Song from the Press Office, an old unsolved case, to his advantage. He realized that exposing Wang Shi'an's past involvement in that incident could turn the tables.

After the Military Intelligence Bureau issued orders, an anti-traitor operation swiftly commenced in Shanghai. Confronted by the overwhelming force, Chen Moqun, who had been hiding in his study overnight attempting to devise an escape, had no choice but to leap from a window and flee. At the same time, Meng Annan led Old Xu, the person in charge of the Communists' Zhongming Rice Trading stronghold, to a remote area outside the city.

Meng Annan fabricated a story about organizing Old Xu's escape, detailing a route involving a stone bridge and a small boat, and even giving a secret phrase: "it's 10 o'clock, but you don't have a watch." After killing Old Xu, Meng Annan reported Zhongming Rice Trading, located on Shengjia Street in the southern city, to the inspection department, identifying it as a Communist labor movement group stronghold. With five traitors, including Chen Moqun, having escaped, the capture operation was stalled.

Wang Shi'an called an urgent meeting, announcing that the Central Executive Committee was enraged by the escapes and demanded their swift capture. He instructed everyone to report any information about Chen Moqun directly to him, warning against independent actions. Lin Nansheng suggested searching the slums, noting the large number of moving refugees, many of whom were uneducated and illiterate, making them ideal hiding spots.

During the meeting, Wang Shi'an received a mysterious call, which he answered privately, confirming his location and then abruptly dismissed the meeting to leave. Lin Nansheng, suspicious of Wang Shi'an's clandestine behavior, secretly followed him. Chen Moqun, desperate for self-preservation, initiated a meeting with Wang Shi'an at a hotel. There, he revealed that the supposed Communist contact station that exploded in Chengjiaqiao Town was actually a deceptive setup by the Communists.

He explained that the body found was not a Communist but a dead beggar, "Number 19," from a quarantine center. Chen Moqun further disclosed that he had planted a spy within the Communist ranks back in 1939, before returning to Shanghai. This spy was responsible for creating the fake stronghold. He offered this intel as leverage, implying it would help Wang Shi'an understand the Communists' true intentions.

Wang Shi'an initially remained skeptical, but Chen Moqun's assertion that there was a Communist spy within the Military Intelligence Bureau made him reconsider. Lin Nansheng discreetly observed from across the street. As Chen Moqun exited the hotel, Lin Nansheng immediately pursued him. However, Meng Annan, acting as Chen Moqun's secret agent, was already lying in wait. He created a diversion by causing a vegetable cart to spill, blocking Lin Nansheng's path and allowing Chen Moqun to escape.

Meanwhile, back at the office, Wang Shi'an, analyzing the situation and suspecting a leak, accidentally learned that Lin Nansheng had interrogated Old Xiao alone early in the morning. This detail, combined with the news that the body in Chengjiaqiao was a beggar, solidified Wang Shi'an's suspicions about Lin Nansheng, prompting him to immediately report his findings to Chongqing Headquarters.

Ji Zhongyuan received urgent news that the Zhongming Rice Trading contact station had been destroyed, its person in charge sacrificed, and Peng Dai Sen, who worked at the rice mill, had gone missing. Witnesses claimed Peng Dai Sen was seen leaving in a Nationalist army uniform. Lin Nansheng, under the guise of renewing old acquaintances, visited Chief Tang of the inspection department.

On his way to Tang's house, Lin Nansheng saw a brooch being repaired at a jewelry shop and inquired about the young lady who brought it in. He gifted Tang's wife a pure gold pixiu, then pressed Chief Tang about the Zhongming Rice Trading raid, learning that the tip came from an informant. The emergence of traitors in both the Nationalist and Communist parties caused widespread alarm.

Meng Annan, pretending to be unaffected in front of Zhu Yizhen, skillfully avoided raising suspicion. Zhu Yizhen noted the destruction of their stronghold and Peng Dai Sen's disappearance, acknowledging the presence of a traitor. Meng Annan subtly suggested that Peng Dai Sen might have betrayed them and faked his disappearance, proposing his immediate elimination if true. Simultaneously, the anti-spy department from Nanjing Headquarters, led by Pei Hao Chuan, arrived in Shanghai.

They first interrogated Liao Tong about the Old Xiao case, particularly regarding his journey to Baoying County to retrieve Old Xiao's wife and his claim of encountering the New Fourth Army. Liao Tong vehemently denied being a spy. Subsequently, Lin Nansheng was questioned. He feigned anger, leveraging his long-standing service and Director Dai Li's trust, demanding concrete evidence for their suspicions. After the investigation, Lin Nansheng met with Ji Zhongyuan to discuss the situation.

Lin Nansheng connected Wang Shi'an's secret meeting with Chen Moqun and the person who obstructed his pursuit of Chen Moqun. Based on Ji Zhongyuan's description of Peng Dai Sen as having an average, slim figure, Lin Nansheng deduced that Peng Dai Sen was likely Chen Moqun's man, covering his escape. Recognizing that he was now under suspicion from the Military Intelligence Bureau, Lin Nansheng decided to find a scapegoat.

He then planted explosives in Liao Tong's office, intending to frame Liao Tong as the Communist spy. Lin Nansheng's plan proceeded smoothly. Explosives were discovered in Liao Tong's office during a search by the anti-spy department. Liao Tong went missing and was unreachable. The anti-spy unit concluded that Liao Tong was indeed the Communist infiltrator and closed the case. Wang Shi'an, upon hearing the news, suspected Lin Nansheng's involvement in framing Liao Tong but lacked any concrete evidence.

When a subordinate defended Liao Tong, Wang Shi'an angrily dismissed him. Later, Chen Moqun called Wang Shi'an, and they met privately again. Wang Shi'an confirmed that Liao Tong was missing and the anti-spy department had closed the case, believing Liao Tong to be the spy. Chen Moqun expressed his disbelief, suggesting Lin Nansheng was not as straightforward as he seemed.

He then disclosed that Gu Shen Yan had previously instructed him to ensure Lin Nansheng's safety and arrange his escape to Hong Kong, mentioning that Zhu Yizhen was the Communist contact. While Wang Shi'an admitted sending Lin Nansheng to contact the Communists, he stated that Lin Nansheng reported meeting a man, not a woman. Chen Moqun warned Wang Shi'an that Lin Nansheng's ability to provide "perfect excuses" made him a dangerous individual who could betray Wang Shi'an.

He then revealed the existence of his secret agent, Meng Annan, whose original name was Kuang Hui Dong. Kuang Hui Dong, a graduate of the Chinese Military Academy, had his death faked so he could infiltrate the Communist ranks. As leverage, Chen Moqun offered to let Wang Shi'an control Kuang Hui Dong in exchange for a ship ticket to Nanyang. Wang Shi'an, considering Chen Moqun's departure from Shanghai beneficial, agreed.

Chen Moqun explained that once his ship passed Wusongkou Wharf, he would use its transmitter to telegram Kuang Hui Dong, who would then report everything to Wang Shi'an. He also provided the token for future contact: a watch. In an emergency, Wang Shi'an could publish a missing person notice in the newspaper with the message "little brother, safe."

With the deal struck, Chen Moqun approached You Zongzhi, the deputy director of the Civil Affairs Bureau, to arrange fake identification documents for his escape. You Zongzhi attempted to extort ten gold bars from Chen Moqun, citing his own financial struggles. However, Chen Moqun countered by threatening to expose You Zongzhi if he were apprehended due to a lack of funds for his escape. Faced with this threat, You Zongzhi reluctantly agreed to eight gold bars and promised to deliver the documents in two days.

After receiving medical treatment, Wei Zilu's condition greatly improved. He began to speak and no longer feared strangers. Lin Nansheng visited Lan Xinjie's home with a cake to celebrate Zilu's birthday. Lan Xinjie expressed her gratitude for the American doctor Lin Nansheng introduced, who had been instrumental in Zilu's rehabilitation. During the celebration, Zilu affectionately called Lin Nansheng "Uncle Lin" and then, as Lan Xinjie cut his cake, he said, "Thank you, Mummy," deeply touching her.

Wang Shi'an later came to Lin Nansheng, bringing what he claimed was definitive proof that Liao Tong was the Mailman. He feigned believing the evidence and apologized for his previous suspicions about Lin Nansheng, specifically regarding the traitor purging unit, explaining he was pressured in his position and worried about reporting to Commissioner Dai.

Lin Nansheng, feigning surprise and anger at Liao Tong, accepted the apology and even offered to accompany Wang Shi'an to meet Commissioner Dai, pretending to share responsibility. Meanwhile, Chen Moqun met with Meng Annan, who expressed his concern about what he would do after Chen Moqun left. Chen Moqun reassured him that he was "clean" and had never gotten his hands dirty.

He highlighted Jiang Jieshi's unwavering determination to suppress the Communists, placing Meng Annan at the forefront of that effort. Chen Moqun informed Meng Annan that he would entrust his watch to Wang Shi'an as a means for Meng Annan to directly report to him. He advised Meng Annan to demonstrate his value to Wang Shi'an to secure a path back to the bureau but also warned him to be wary of both Wang Shi'an and Lin Nansheng.

Meng Annan felt a pang of sadness, questioning if he would ever see Chen Moqun again after their parting. In another development, Zhao Jinglong, while apprehending traitors, discovered You Zongzhi, the deputy commissioner of the Civil Affairs Bureau, was secretly forging licenses. Upon arresting You Zongzhi, they found a fake Republic of China passport belonging to Chen Moqun, indicating his plan to flee abroad. Lin Nansheng took charge of the interrogation.

You Zongzhi initially resisted, asserting his past connections to the Central Bureau of Investigation and Statistics, but Lin Nansheng threatened him with severe torture methods from both the Central Bureau and the Military Intelligence Bureau, promising to leave him "just alive enough" to be transported to Nanjing. Under duress, You Zongzhi revealed that Chen Moqun planned to meet him at 10 AM that day to collect the passport an hour before his ship departed.

Lin Nansheng immediately mobilized his team to set up an ambush at the meeting location. However, Wang Shi'an, informed of the situation, quickly dispatched his own men. Concerned that Chen Moqun might expose their secret dealings if captured, Wang Shi'an deliberately made a spectacle of his arrival, hoping to alert Chen Moqun and allow him to escape.

He openly questioned Lin Nansheng about the intelligence and the number of men brought, accusing him of underestimating Chen Moqun and potentially spooking him. Despite Wang Shi'an's efforts, Lin Nansheng had already spotted Chen Moqun attempting to escape and intercepted him alone. Lin Nansheng confronted Chen Moqun, exposing Wang Shi'an's past betrayals, including tipping off the Japanese about Chen Moqun's return from Hong Kong and leaking the Press Office plan at Qingpu.

He offered Chen Moqun a chance to be sent to a detention facility in Nanjing, which would grant him temporary safety, if he revealed Wang Shi'an's complicity. Otherwise, he threatened to send Chen Moqun to Nanshi Detention Center, where he wouldn't last 12 hours. Chen Moqun, admitting his fear that Wang Shi'an would kill him if sent to Nanshi, still desperately sought a way to survive and escape.

He then offered to reveal the identity of a Communist mole, the person who covered his evacuation at the motel, in exchange for his passport and passage to Nanyang. Lin Nansheng refused to bargain with a traitor. Infuriated, Chen Moqun drew his pistol, reminding Lin Nansheng that he was responsible for bringing him to Shanghai. Lin Nansheng calmly stated that Chen Moqun wouldn't dare to shoot, pointing out that his fear of death had led to his defection.

Just as their standoff intensified, Wang Shi'an arrived and fatally shot Chen Moqun to silence him. Chen Moqun died without revealing the mole's identity. Lin Nansheng suppressed his anger at Wang Shi'an's act of murder to eliminate a witness. Wang Shi'an then tried to dismiss Chen Moqun's accusations as the desperate slander of a traitor, which Lin Nansheng outwardly agreed with. Wang Shi'an secretly retrieved Chen Moqun's watch, which was meant for Meng Annan.

In the days that followed, Meng Annan repeatedly visited the post office, inquiring about any telegrams for "Kuang Hui Dong," a coded name Chen Moqun used for him. Each time, he was told there were none. His hopes dwindled, and he was devastated upon reading in the newspaper that "Traitor Chen Moqun was killed by the Traitor Purging Committee."

Meanwhile, Wang Shi'an, after confirming Kuang Hui Dong's identity through the Chinese Military Academy, published a coded search notice in the newspaper, ostensibly from "An Ran" looking for "Brother Chen Fu Ren" to discuss "family matters," intending to lure Meng Annan out. Lin Nansheng discussed the situation with Ji Zhongyuan. With Chen Moqun dead, the lead on uncovering Peng Dai Sen, whom Lin Nansheng suspected was Chen Moqun's mole planted within the Communist Party, was gone.

Lin Nansheng suspected Peng Dai Sen was Chen Moqun's leverage and stated that he would have to find other ways to uncover him, especially with the increased danger from the traitor purging unit. He decided to cultivate a good relationship with Wang Shi'an to prevent being cut off from information. Tragedy struck when a fierce shootout erupted in the streets between military police and soldiers from the Beijing-Shanghai Garrison Command over a disputed property.

Wei Zilu was hit by a stray bullet. Aunt Tian rushed back to tell Lan Xinjie that Zilu had been taken to the hospital. Lan Xinjie hurried to the hospital, only to find Zilu's lifeless body. The doctor regretfully informed her they couldn't save him due to his severe injuries. Overwhelmed with grief and rage, Lan Xinjie, clutching Lin Nansheng's pistol, stormed to the military police headquarters.

She demanded to see the commander to seek justice for her son, who had died innocently. When a guard tried to block her and told her to leave, she drew the pistol and shot him. She was subsequently arrested. The military police traced the pistol's serial number back to Lin Nansheng. Wang Shi'an called Lin Nansheng, fuming about the incident and demanding an explanation.

Lin Nansheng explained that it was his old gun, which he had left with Lan Xinjie for her protection as a vulnerable widow. Wang Shi'an informed him that Commander Xia had already ordered Lan Xinjie's execution the next morning at Longhua. Lin Nansheng, desperate, reminded Wang Shi'an that the military police themselves were responsible for Zilu's death, having engaged in a shootout over a house.

He then shockingly declared that Lan Xinjie was his fiancée and Zilu his stepson, compelling Wang Shi'an to intervene. Under pressure, Wang Shi'an was forced to negotiate with Commander Xia. He compensated the military police with a property that was under military intelligence control, originally belonging to Wang Jingwei's puppet navy. In return, Commander Xia agreed to prosecute the soldier who killed Zilu and release Lan Xinjie, though he required compensation for the injured guard.

Lin Nansheng went to pick up a distraught Lan Xinjie from the military police department. She was disoriented by grief, refusing to leave without seeing justice done for Zilu. She lamented that after enduring so much from Chongqing to Shanghai, if she didn't demand justice, Zilu's death would be in vain. Lin Nansheng tried to reason with her, urging her to stay alive, as only then could she honor Zilu's memory and visit his grave.

Overwhelmed by grief and seeking an end to her suffering, Lan Xinjie was intent on dying. However, Lin Nansheng persuaded her to choose life, urging her to remain strong to honor her late husband and son, and to eventually witness the downfall of their enemies. Grateful for Lin Nansheng's intervention and his continuous care over the years, Lan Xinjie realized that the military police department would scrutinize their relationship if they did not formalize their engagement.

Understanding the complications, she proposed that they marry soon. Lin Nansheng secretly contacted Ji Zhongyuan, and the organization approved their request for a fake marriage. Despite preparing for his arranged marriage, Lin Nansheng remained deeply concerned for Zhu Yizhen. He visited a coffee shop opposite a jewelry store, where he observed Zhu Yizhen retrieve a butterfly brooch that had been left for repair.

The store staff and her neighbors all referred to her as "Mrs. Shen," indicating she was married and appeared to be living a settled, normal life. Relieved by this sight, Lin Nansheng quietly departed. Meanwhile, Meng Annan discovered Wang Shi'an's missing person advertisement for "Kuang Hui Dong" in the newspaper. Feeling conflicted by the notice, Meng Annan burned the paper. In September 1948, a lavish wedding ceremony for Lin Nansheng and Lan Xinjie was held in the Lin family garden.

Many high-ranking officials from the military and government, accompanied by their families, attended. Even Commissioner Mao Renfeng, from a distant province, sent his secretary with a substantial gift. This display of influence made Wang Shi'an wary of Lin Nansheng and his powerful connections. As she sat before her dressing table, Lan Xinjie's thoughts drifted to her past.

She recalled how, during her first marriage, she had yearned to wear a wedding gown, but her husband had to return to his unit, leaving no time for preparations beyond a simple family meal. He had promised a proper wedding upon his return, but he was killed in Nanjing before her gown even arrived. She mused that she no longer needed a wedding gown. She then asked Lin Nansheng if he had ever envisioned his own wedding.

He confessed that during his school days, he harbored feelings for a girl and had imagined their wedding taking place on a basketball court. Throughout the reception, Lin Nansheng and Lan Xinjie expertly played the part of an affectionate couple, drawing admiration from the guests. Lin Nansheng subtly used the opportunity to inquire with Director Tang about the whereabouts of Peng Daisen, whom he had previously asked the director to locate.

Director Tang informed him that the inspection department in Nanjing had no record of such a person and he found it inappropriate to press the matter further. Later, Wang Shi'an suggested a "family portrait" of the station members, symbolizing unity. The year 1948 marked the beginning of the Liaoshen Campaign. Due to critical intelligence leaks, Jinan fell, leading to a significant victory for the Chinese Communist Party and the liberation of Northeast China.

During this period, Lin Nansheng maintained his prominent position within the Kuomintang, while Meng Annan continued his undercover surveillance near Zhu Yizhen. Wang Shi'an convened an urgent meeting to discuss the intelligence operative codenamed "Fisherman." Nanjing authorities identified "Fisherman" as the mastermind behind the critical decisions that led to the Communist army's success in Jinan, recognizing him as the nerve center of the East China Bureau's underground intelligence network.

They believed he had been operating from Shanghai even before the war, and Nanjing ordered an immediate and thorough investigation. Following the meeting, Lin Nansheng met with Ji Zhongyuan to relay this vital information, urging him to take necessary precautions. Lin Nansheng disclosed that the State Secrecy Bureau's intelligence department had formed two search groups, one in Nanjing and one in Shanghai.

While they only knew "Fisherman's" code name and believed he was in Shanghai, they were unaware of his true identity or the full extent of his operations, with some analysts even suggesting it might be a fake code name or shared by multiple individuals. Lin Nansheng warned Ji Zhongyuan not to underestimate their investigative capabilities, as they now understood "Fisherman's" crucial role in the party's intelligence network.

Zhu Yizhen concealed intelligence within an embroidery and entrusted it to Meng Annan for delivery to the "Wu Yue Embroidery" shop. Unbeknownst to them, military police agents had already staked out the area. They had been following another Communist liaison, referred to as "Situ" in the subtitles. As "Situ" arrived at the shop, the agents raided it. A shootout ensued, during which "Situ" fired at the agents, causing casualties.

In the chaos, the shop owner, who seemed to be protecting Meng Annan, urged him to escape through a back underground passage. The owner and a worker were both shot dead by the agents, while Meng Annan, though wounded, managed to evade capture. Lin Nansheng arrived at the compromised embroidery shop.

Upon discovering a handkerchief with Zhu Yizhen’s distinctive embroidery style, which had the name "Situ" embroidered on it, he discreetly ensured all evidence was collected and taken back to the station for thorough examination. He then went directly to Zhu Yizhen’s grocery shop and confronted her, asking if she had sent an embroidery with "Situ" sewn on it. She feigned ignorance, prompting Lin Nansheng to warn her not to panic, assuring her he had no intention of arresting her.

He revealed that her information had been seized, her contact point at the embroidery shop was compromised, and her comrades were dead, with one escapee being actively pursued and likely to be caught alive. Zhu Yizhen questioned why he would come to save her, to which Lin Nansheng explained it was out of their shared bond from fighting the Japanese.

He warned her that this was a one-time gesture and that she should never again dispatch information through embroideries or use that specific "Situ" seal. He emphasized her luck that only he recognized her distinctive work, otherwise, she would have suffered the same fate as her comrades. He then cautioned her not to disclose his visit, as he did not wish to be implicated. Shortly after Lin Nansheng's departure, a wounded Meng Annan returned.

Zhu Yizhen expressed relief and concern for his safety, asking about his prolonged absence and if he was aware of the incident at the embroidery shop. Meng Annan, minimizing his injuries, confirmed the deaths of the owner and worker and the seizure of the shop's contents, explaining he had found a hideout to escape. Zhu Yizhen carefully questioned him about whether he had encountered anyone suspicious on his way back, relieved when he confirmed he had not seen anyone.

Meng Annan then incorrectly reassured her that it was merely a basic contact point and no crucial information had been compromised, while Zhu Yizhen instructed him to stay home for the next two days. Meanwhile, back at the station, Wang Shi'an examined the photographic film recovered from the embroidery. It was a deployment map of the 2nd Army in Dangshan.

The Communist Party had ingeniously photographed the map, made a film, and concealed it within the embroidery, using this method for non-verbal intelligence transmission. Wang Shi'an, surprised by the Communists' access to such sensitive military intelligence, ordered further investigation, including consulting more embroiderers, as the initial expert found nothing unusual about the stitches.

Concerned about the possibility of false intelligence affecting troop movements, he decided to first confirm the map's authenticity with the Ministry of Defense before reporting it to Chongqing, to avoid potential embarrassment for the station.

Concerned that Lin Nansheng's knowledge of her true identity could compromise future intelligence operations, Zhu Yizhen spoke with Ji Zhongyuan. She also asked if Meng Annan had noticed Lin Nansheng's visit. Ji Zhongyuan reassured her that Meng Annan hadn't, and moving her embroidery shop now would only draw unwanted attention, while the embroidery shop itself couldn't be directly linked back to her. Zhu Yizhen still worried that her personal connection to Lin Nansheng would affect their intelligence line.

Ji Zhongyuan assuaged her fears, explaining that if Lin Nansheng had intended to arrest her, they would have been surrounded by special agents already. Later, Lin Nansheng relayed to Ji Zhongyuan that the Ministry of Defense had merged the investigations of the embroidery shop case and his case, with the Shanghai division taking overall charge. He advised Ji Zhongyuan to reduce operations and be more careful.

Ji Zhongyuan criticized Lin Nansheng's previous hasty action concerning the embroidery shop, noting the danger of losing two intelligence threads if the escaped agent knew Zhu Yizhen and decided to defect. He emphasized the urgent need to stop any intelligence being passed through that method. Lin Nansheng then reflected on his encounter with Zhu Yizhen, confiding in Ji Zhongyuan that Zhu Yizhen's eyes were filled with anger and wariness, believing he was there to arrest her.

He had to deliver his warning using hurtful words and now feared that harm might befall her before she could learn of his true allegiance. Ji Zhongyuan understood his pain, assuring him that such suffering would end once the war was over. Back at the State Secrecy Bureau, Undersecretary Lin from the Ministry of Defense arrived from Nanjing, furious with Wang Shi'an. He accused Wang Shi'an of possessing top-secret information about the 2nd Army's relocation to Dangshan.

Wang Shi'an vehemently denied the accusation, presenting intelligence he claimed was seized from a busted Communist liaison station, including a map showing the 2nd Corps' Dangshan defenses. Director Yu, from the War Office's Intelligence Department, pointed out a blurry spot in the top-left corner of the photo of the map. He recognized this unique blur from a previous top-secret deployment photo intercepted last year, which was also linked to "Fisherman," confirming a leak within the Ministry of Defense.

Undersecretary Lin warned Wang Shi'an that if any further information leaked, the investigation would begin with him and his key subordinates: Lin Nansheng, Fu Zhaowen, Zhao Jinglong, and his secretary. Undersecretary Lin, who had even brought an empty car to take Wang Shi'an back to Nanjing for questioning, ordered him to take overall charge of the "Fisherman" investigation, merging it with the embroidery shop case.

Lin Nansheng later relayed this information to Ji Zhongyuan, stating that the Shanghai division was now in charge of the merged investigations, advising Ji Zhongyuan to reduce operations and be more careful. Under immense pressure, Wang Shi'an convened a meeting to discuss how to capture Fisherman, the central figure in the Communist's East China underground intelligence network. He noted that over five Communist radios were active in Shanghai, but their short and irregular transmission times made them difficult to locate.

He highlighted one high-power radio that was unusually active and demanded results within a month, emphasizing this was an opportunity given the intensifying war. Wang Shi'an also asked his subordinates about "Kuang Hui Dong" (Meng Annan's birth name), but they reported no success from the months-long search notices. He expressed his frustration about the lack of leads and the constant pressure from higher authorities.

Ji Zhongyuan met with Zhu Yizhen, informing her about news from the yarn factory: several tons of medical gauze had been transported towards Xuzhou, purchased by the Nationalist 5th Army's field hospital, which had doubled in size. Zhu Yizhen confirmed that she would relay this crucial intelligence to their base promptly. Ji Zhongyuan mentioned the upcoming Huaihai Campaign, expressing hope that Shanghai's liberation was imminent.

He told Zhu Yizhen that intelligence from all sides would continue to flow, and they would meet every three days, confirming their meeting location by phone, as these "uncommon times" required breaking protocol. Meanwhile, Meng Annan, feigning a severe toothache, observed Zhu Yizhen's movements over several days, noting her phone calls. After she made a phone call and then left, he followed her. Later, he used a public telephone directory to trace the number to an address on Yongjia Road.

During this time, Lin Nansheng frequented Director Tang's office, subtly gathering information. Director Tang conveyed the grim situation, noting the Nationalist retreat to Guangzhou and Taiwan, with Shanghai also preparing for evacuation. Lin Nansheng received their exit plan and passed it to Ji Zhongyuan. He expressed regret that he would have to wait another six months to meet his comrades, unlike Zhu Yizhen, who Ji Zhongyuan assured him he would see again on the day of victory.

Lin Nansheng told Ji Zhongyuan that his call sign, "Sailor 08," would remain the same, and a comrade in Guangzhou would contact him there. Separately, Lan Xinjie confided in Lin Nansheng that she didn't want to evacuate to Taiwan with other officers' wives, who often gossiped about her. She preferred to stay with him.

Lin Nansheng agreed, asking her to accompany him to Guangzhou, but cautioned her to keep it confidential, only informing close acquaintances like Director Tang or his wife. Meng Annan continued his surveillance. On a predetermined day, he faked a toothache, closing his tobacco and grocery shop, and discreetly followed Zhu Yizhen as she went to meet Ji Zhongyuan at a park. Unaware of being tailed, Ji Zhongyuan then led Meng Annan back to his residence.

Meng Annan then approached a nearby shopkeeper under the guise of looking for a relative, subtly confirming that only one man, who rarely left his house, lived there. Seeking to capitalize on this information for his own career advancement, Meng Annan later contacted Wang Shi'an. Wang Shi'an, dining with Director Yu, lamented the difficulties of evacuating to Taiwan and the influx of northern officials.

Director Yu advised Wang Shi'an to prioritize the Fisherman case, emphasizing that a major achievement in this investigation would secure his political standing in Guangzhou or Taiwan, preventing him from becoming a titular figure among the many relocated station chiefs. Director Yu highlighted Lin Nansheng's strong ties with Commissioner Mao Renfeng, illustrating his influence by recounting how Lin Nansheng once casually "robbed" tea leaves from Mao's office.

Frustrated by his subordinates' lack of progress on the Fisherman case, Wang Shi'an received a call. Meng Annan, identifying himself as "Kuang Hui Dong," revealed the whereabouts of Ji Zhongyuan at No. 151 Taixing Road, describing him as a 50-year-old man with a long face and thick eyebrows, identifying him as "the core leader of the East China Bureau's Urban Work Bureau who has been undercover in Shanghai."

Wang Shi'an, recalling Meng Annan's previous failure to appear in 1945, questioned his trustworthiness. Meng Annan explained that his handler, Chen Mo Qun, had been killed during the traitor purging campaign, making it unsafe to contact them. He now came forward because the busting of the Wu Yue Embroidery shop signaled that Wang Shi'an's investigation was closing in, and he wished to avoid becoming a "Communist martyr," admitting that he was the one who escaped the embroidery shop.

Immediately, Wang Shi'an dispatched agents to Ji Zhongyuan's residence. Ji Zhongyuan, who was preparing to relay vital intelligence about the Huaihai Campaign to Zhu Yizhen, was surrounded and arrested. In the interrogation room, Ji Zhongyuan maintained his cover as "Tan Zhaoyi," a cotton yarn futures trader observing the market. Lin Nansheng, having been unable to contact Ji Zhongyuan, grew increasingly anxious. He heard rumors that Wang Shi'an had captured a high-ranking Communist, a "core personnel of the East China Bureau."

Feigning curiosity, Lin Nansheng went to the interrogation room, where he saw Ji Zhongyuan calmly facing Wang Shi'an. Wang Shi'an, hoping to persuade Ji Zhongyuan to defect, urged Lin Nansheng to join him. Ji Zhongyuan, maintaining his alias, insisted he was merely a businessman and couldn't understand why he was arrested, claiming he had a gun for personal protection due to the volatile market. Wang Shi'an dismissed his claims, pressing for his real position or code name.

Ji Zhongyuan, seeing Lin Nansheng, subtly conveyed a message, arguing that although the Communists had won in the Northeast, the Nationalists still commanded millions of troops in Beiping and northern Jiangsu, implying that any victory his captors anticipated would no longer involve him, a subtle reference to the Communist advance while not directly admitting his identity.

Wang Shi'an’s interrogation of Ji Zhongyuan, who was using the alias Tan Zhao Yi, proved difficult as Ji Zhongyuan remained steadfast, claiming to be an ordinary citizen concerned only with market prices amidst the chaos. Frustrated, Wang Shi'an decided to employ a war of attrition, ordering continuous overnight interrogations without torture, while secretly monitoring Lin Nansheng’s movements.

Wang Shi'an, believing his intelligence about Ji Zhongyuan being a high-ranking officer was reliable, wanted to use the shortest amount of time to force a confession. Lin Nansheng, forced to sit opposite the interrogation room, found himself increasingly agitated, trying to suppress his unease. He waited until Wang Shi'an took over his shift, giving him a chance to return to his office and strategize a way to rescue Ji Zhongyuan.

Meanwhile, after several days without contact from Ji Zhongyuan, Zhu Yizhen sensed something was wrong and promptly sent a telegram to her organization, requesting them to verify his situation. Wang Shi'an was intent on an all-night interrogation, using materials from his own investigation to press Ji Zhongyuan, when Meng Annan called. Meng Annan, who had previously contacted Wang Shi'an only after Ji Zhongyuan's arrest, agreed to meet Wang Shi'an and set the location.

At their meeting, after Meng Annan was cautiously checked for dangerous items, Wang Shi'an appeared. Meng Annan, acknowledging Wang Shi'an's role in his return, presented a watch from Chen Mo Qun, claiming Chen Mo Qun's death was an accident. He demanded to be fully reinstated in the State Secrecy Bureau with a clear identity and the rank of major, insisting he should not be labeled a traitor for having worked under Chen Mo Qun.

Wang Shi'an promised to help him achieve his desired rank and position, but in return, he pressed Meng Annan to confirm Ji Zhongyuan's true identity. Meng Annan, wary of Wang Shi'an's trustworthiness, wanted to secure his reinstatement first, leading to a stalemate.

Wang Shi'an, leveraging his knowledge of Meng Annan's past from Germany and the story of the watch, compelled Meng Annan to return to Zhu Yizhen’s side to await a new contact, promising him even greater rewards if he could help catch a "bigger fish." Despite Meng Annan's strong reluctance to return to his deep cover, Wang Shi'an’s implicit threat of exposing his past forced him to concede.

To create an opportunity for a private conversation, Ji Zhongyuan orchestrated a scene in the interrogation room. He asked Secretary Zhang for a cup of hot water, then deliberately splashed it on him. Lin Nansheng, feigning anger, used Ji Zhongyuan's feigned faint as an opportunity to have him sent to the infirmary. After the doctor confirmed Ji Zhongyuan had merely fainted and Lin Nansheng sent everyone else away, the two finally spoke alone.

Lin Nansheng informed Ji Zhongyuan that Wang Shi'an's spy had tipped him off, but they only suspected Ji Zhongyuan was a high-ranking officer, unaware of his true identity as Fisherman. Ji Zhongyuan dismissed any rescue attempts, revealing a far more critical mission: to retrieve vital intelligence about the Huaihai campaign from General Rong of the Ministry of Defense.

Ji Zhongyuan explained that he had recruited General Rong to the Communist Party in 1936, and after twelve years of inactivity, General Rong had contacted him to deliver decisive intelligence during his three-day visit to Shanghai for a Beijing-Shanghai District garrison headquarters meeting. As Ji Zhongyuan had missed his appointment due to his arrest, he tasked Lin Nansheng with obtaining the intelligence, emphasizing its importance to the nation's future.

Since General Rong would only recognize Ji Zhongyuan, a special plan was needed to establish Lin Nansheng's credibility. Ji Zhongyuan’s plan involved luring Wang Shi'an out of the station with a false confession. Lin Nansheng was then to arrange for someone to fire a single shot "at Ji Zhongyuan" in front of Ciro’s Night Club. This planned shot, which would be perceived as an assassination attempt by Wang Shi'an's men, would attract public attention and reporters, ensuring photos were captured.

This public display of Ji Zhongyuan being targeted would convince General Rong that Ji Zhongyuan was compromised and unable to attend their meeting, thus making him trust Lin Nansheng. Ji Zhongyuan stressed that both he and Lin Nansheng could sacrifice themselves, but the intelligence must not be lost. He also instructed Lin Nansheng, if exposed, to take Zhu Yizhen to the Northeast Liberated Zone via Route 5, and to never reveal General Rong’s identity.

Lin Nansheng, struggling to find a suitable sniper, called Lan Xinjie to the military intelligence bureau under the pretense of a relapse, asking her to bring medicine. He then urgently explained the dangerous mission. Despite her lack of military training, Lan Xinjie, after an emotional conversation where she confessed her deep care for Lin Nansheng, accepted the task, understanding the immense risks involved.

She resolved to fire one shot at the lamp post at Ciro's Night Club at 4 PM, then retreat without being seen. Wang Shi'an, returning from his meeting with Meng Annan, observed Lin Nansheng and Lan Xinjie from a distance, but was unaware of their actual conversation.

Upon his return, Meng Annan tried to explain his earlier absence to Zhu Yizhen, claiming he had tried to pawn his watch for goods, but no one wanted it because it lacked a second hand. Zhu Yizhen, who had noticed the watch was missing from its drawer, questioned Meng Annan about it upon his return, reminding him to keep such a gift from his benefactor properly. Meng Annan insisted that times had changed, and what mattered was remembering the person.

Later, Ji Zhongyuan, sensing the time was right, requested to speak with Wang Shi'an alone. He "confessed" his identity as Cong Zhi Yuan, the leader of the East China Bureau's labor movement group, and then strategically revealed that the "Fisherman," the top leader of the Urban Work Bureau in Shanghai, would meet him at the entrance of Ciro's Night Club at 4 PM. He hoped this false confession would trick Wang Shi'an, thereby paving the way for Lin Nansheng's mission with General Rong.

Cong Zhi Yuan used himself as bait to create an opportunity for Lin Nansheng to meet with General Rong. He informed Wang Shi'an that he would meet "Fisherman," the top leader of the East China Bureau's Urban Work Bureau in Shanghai, at 4 p. m. that day, in front of Ciro's Night Club.

Cong Zhi Yuan explained to Wang Shi'an that Fisherman would remain hidden in the crowd until he made a specific signal, resting his hands on his hips, and would disappear if any unusual movements occurred. When Wang Shi'an questioned why he waited until the last minute, Cong Zhi Yuan asserted that an earlier disclosure would have allowed a mole to warn Fisherman, but now it was too late.

He also apologized for being rough with one of Wang Shi'an's men, claiming it was a necessary act to prove his trustworthiness. To make his deception more convincing, Cong Zhi Yuan demanded a steep price: 100,000 US dollars and fifty gold bars, each weighing 377 grams, in addition to safe passage to Argentina, presenting himself as a greedy and cowardly defector.

Wang Shi'an, believing the opportunity to capture Fisherman was invaluable, immediately contacted his superior, Commissioner Mao, to secure the funds. He explained to Commissioner Mao that Cong Zhi Yuan's information about a major intelligence network adjustment suggested Fisherman was planning to leave, and this was their best chance to dismantle the entire underground network in Shanghai.

Wang Shi'an then met Cong Zhi Yuan, providing a partial payment from his division's reserve fund and a special withdrawal request form signed by him for the Ministry of Finance, promising the remaining funds within two days. He warned Cong Zhi Yuan that he would wait only until 4:05 p. m. , and if Fisherman didn't appear, Cong Zhi Yuan would be held accountable.

Cong Zhi Yuan, urging haste, insisted they depart immediately to make it on time, reiterating that even under duress, he would not make the signal at gunpoint. Meanwhile, Lan Xinjie made her own preparations. She called numerous Shanghai newspapers, fabricating a sensational story about an influential boss taking his mistress to Ciro's Night Club at 4 p. m. , where his enraged wife, possibly armed, would confront them. This ruse successfully drew many reporters to the scene.

Lan Xinjie then positioned herself on a rooftop across the street from the nightclub, equipped with a sniper rifle. Following the plan, she attached a grenade to a side door as an escape mechanism and detection alert. As 4 p. m. approached, Wang Shi'an's agents formed a heavy perimeter around Ciro's Night Club. Cong Zhi Yuan, now uncuffed, walked towards the entrance under close surveillance. Reporters began to gather, confirming the effectiveness of Lan Xinjie's tip-off.

With a tense focus, Lan Xinjie took aim and fired, striking a street lamp near Cong Zhi Yuan. The light cover shattered and fell, plunging the immediate area into chaos and sending pedestrians scattering in panic. In the confusion, as Lan Xinjie was disassembling her rifle, she accidentally dislodged a loose stone, which fell and exposed her position.

Seeing this, Cong Zhi Yuan quickly seized a gun from one of the agents guarding him, sacrificing himself to buy time for Lan Xinjie's escape. The agents, reacting instantly, opened fire, killing Cong Zhi Yuan on the spot. Lan Xinjie attempted to flee down a staircase but was spotted by police officers. Remembering Lin Nansheng's urgent instruction not to let anyone see her face, she was forced back upstairs.

Trapped on the rooftop with no escape, Lan Xinjie chose to sacrifice herself, pulling the pin on her grenade, and was instantly killed in the explosion. Lin Nansheng and his team, rushing to her aid, arrived moments too late, witnessing the tragic outcome. Despite the profound grief of losing two comrades, Lin Nansheng maintained his composure and left the scene without drawing suspicion.

Wang Shi'an was furious at the mission's failure, not only having lost Cong Zhi Yuan but also failing to capture Fisherman. During an urgent meeting, a subordinate reported that while fragments confirmed a female shooter, the destroyed weapon and common clothing made identification impossible. Only two injured officers had briefly seen her, describing her as a woman of medium height, around 30 years old, but without any distinct features.

Wang Shi'an voiced his frustration, demanding an explanation for the disastrous outcome. Lin Nansheng intervened, suggesting the Communists might have detected their presence and altered their plan, turning the meeting into an assassination. He theorized that Cong Zhi Yuan's suspicion of their agents led him to make a desperate move by grabbing a gun.

Lin Nansheng then subtly implied that those who had spoken to Cong Zhi Yuan alone after he revealed the meeting, particularly Wang Shi'an himself, should be thoroughly investigated for potential leaks. Wang Shi'an, realizing the implication, was momentarily silenced, though his subordinate assured him that Lin Nansheng had been closely monitored at the scene and exhibited no unusual behavior. Wang Shi'an also learned that the numerous reporters were drawn by the fabricated "social scandal" tip-off, which the shootout evidently disrupted.

Later that evening, Lin Nansheng returned to his empty home, consumed by grief. Wang Jie, his housekeeper, informed him that "Madam" (Lan Xinjie) had prepared his favorite dishes that morning but would not be returning, as she was staying at a friend's house. Lin Nansheng, alone, wept as he ate the meal, realizing Lan Xinjie had likely foreseen her fate.

The next day, Commissioner Mao, enraged by the failure, reprimanded Wang Shi'an over the phone, demanding a plausible explanation for the operation's catastrophic results and threatening his position if he couldn't deliver. Wang Shi'an, facing immense pressure and suspecting an internal leak, ordered an investigation into Lin Nansheng, particularly focusing on their private conversation in the infirmary. Meanwhile, Zhu Yizhen read a newspaper headline detailing the shootout at Ciro's, the deaths of two men, and a woman on a rooftop.

Shocked and saddened by Cong Zhi Yuan's death, she promptly sent a telegram to her organization, requesting an investigation into the cause and further instructions. Unbeknownst to Wang Shi'an, Lin Nansheng, disguised as a colonel from the Ministry of Defense, bypassed security and gained entry into the Tianchan Theatre, which was exclusively reserved by the Beijing-Shanghai Garrison Command and where General Rong was present.

Posing as a theater worker, Lin Nansheng approached General Rong, feigning a request for him to choose an additional scene for the performance. Once alone, Lin Nansheng urgently informed General Rong that he had little time and must speak without interruption.

He then recounted a secret meeting between General Rong and Cong Zhi Yuan in November 1947 at the Jin Qiao Hotel, detailing how Rong had been coughing while holding a blue handkerchief, and how Cong Zhi Yuan had recommended an old man in Yongning Street known for treating coughs. To further confirm his identity, Lin Nansheng offered General Rong a cup of "Lu Cui" tea, the general's favorite and identical to the one Cong Zhi Yuan had given him.

Recognizing the code phrases and the tea, General Rong understood that "Comrade Birch" (Lin Nansheng) had been sent by "Old Ji" (Cong Zhi Yuan). Lin Nansheng reassured Rong about his disguise and then, in response to General Rong's question, explained that Cong Zhi Yuan had sacrificed himself to ensure the smooth transfer of this vital information. Though he did not know the exact details of Cong Zhi Yuan's arrest, he affirmed that Cong Zhi Yuan had prioritized General Rong's safety.

General Rong, profoundly saddened, entrusted Lin Nansheng with the crucial intelligence for the Huaihai Campaign, emphasizing the urgency of its delivery, as it represented their only hope to turn the tide of the war. Lin Nansheng vowed to complete the mission. Shortly after, Wang Shi'an received news that Lin Nansheng had forcibly entered the Garrison Command's private theater, even assaulting a guard. Infuriated, Wang Shi'an immediately ordered Lin Nansheng's return, determined to prevent any further complications.

Lin Nansheng arrived at the Shenji Rouge Store, urgently asking for Zhu Yizhen. Meng Annan, who was present, immediately drew a pistol and questioned his identity. When Zhu Yizhen came downstairs, Lin Nansheng revealed the grim news: Ji Zhongyuan had died, and he was there to complete the mission in his stead.

He urged Zhu Yizhen to verify his identity using her radio and then help him transmit crucial intelligence, even offering his pistol to prove he had no malicious intent. Zhu Yizhen instructed Meng Annan to keep an eye on Lin Nansheng. Upstairs, Lin Nansheng dictated the content for a verification telegram to the Intelligence Department of the North China Bureau.

While they waited for a reply, Lin Nansheng noticed a wedding photo on the wall and tried to calm a nervous Zhu Yizhen. After a tense wait, a telegram arrived from the North China Bureau, confirming Lin Nansheng's identity as "Mailman" and instructing Zhu Yizhen to protect him at all costs. Zhu Yizhen, relieved, told Meng Annan to put down his gun and stand guard downstairs.

Once Meng Annan left, Zhu Yizhen locked the door and confided in Lin Nansheng that she had suspected Meng Annan's strange behavior for some time. Lin Nansheng then retrieved a matchbox containing a crucial document: the Battle of Xuzhou-Bengbu plan, devised by the Nationalist Party's Ministry of Defense. He explained that Ji Zhongyuan had tasked him with delivering this plan to the East China Field Army. As he revealed the plan, Lin Nansheng spotted Meng Annan's watch.

He recognized it as identical to one Chen Moqun had worn, noting both stopped at 4:12 and lacked a second hand, confirming it as a token of identification. Lin Nansheng's suspicion solidified, and he confirmed with Zhu Yizhen that Meng Annan had participated in the Chengjiaqiao operation, which led to Ji Zhongyuan's betrayal and death. Lin Nansheng declared Meng Annan was the mole he had been searching for.

Downstairs, Meng Annan was on the phone with Wang Shi'an, reporting "the goods" had arrived at the Shenji Rouge Store and agreeing to Wang Shi'an's offer of an introduction to Commissioner Mao. Just as he hung up, Lin Nansheng confronted him, exposing his true identity as Chen Moqun's operative by pointing out Meng Annan's watch, which was a token identical to one Chen Moqun had worn.

Meng Annan initially attempted to lie, but Lin Nansheng cut through his deception, warning him that Wang Shi'an, who had previously betrayed Chen Moqun, would betray him too. Meng Annan then dropped the pretense, gloating that Lin Nansheng's "catchers" were on their way and neither he nor Zhu Yizhen would escape. A fierce struggle ensued, with Lin Nansheng unable to use his gun due to the proximity of the neighbors.

He was forced to kill Meng Annan due to his violent resistance. Upstairs, Zhu Yizhen, hearing the commotion, had just finished transmitting a telegram to the organization, taking responsibility for failing to identify Meng Annan and requesting disciplinary action. Lin Nansheng joined her, confirming the telegram was sent, but they discovered the store was surrounded by police. Lin Nansheng, strategizing, noted the police were waiting for Wang Shi'an's arrival before storming the building.

Wang Shi'an eventually arrived and ordered his men to break down the door, only to find Meng Annan dead and the store empty. He immediately ordered a search for Zhu Yizhen. Lin Nansheng and Zhu Yizhen had already fled through a rooftop ventilation shaft. As they emerged into an alley, they were spotted by Wang Shi'an and his men, who opened fire. Lin Nansheng pulled Zhu Yizhen into a car, and they sped away under heavy gunfire.

During the chaotic escape, Zhu Yizhen recalled Ji Zhongyuan's words about their predetermined evacuation routes. Lin Nansheng's gun ran out of bullets, and he found another one. Wang Shi'an's forces relentlessly pursued them, eventually shooting out their car tires. Lin Nansheng urged Zhu Yizhen to get out and escape while he covered her, but Zhu Yizhen refused, declaring her orders were to protect him with her life.

She bravely stepped in front of Lin Nansheng, taking a bullet intended for him. With overwhelming enemy fire, Lin Nansheng had no choice but to grab the wounded Zhu Yizhen and jump into the river. Despite his desperate efforts to hold onto her, the continuous barrage of bullets into the water caused him to lose his grip, and they were tragically separated.

Lin Nansheng was rescued from the river by a boatman named Chang Fu and brought to Xietang Town to recuperate, adopting the name "Mr. Zuo." He frequently inquired about Zhu Yizhen, but Chang Fu could only report that no one had seen his "wife," and with the rising water levels, her fate was uncertain. Chang Fu, understanding Lin Nansheng's hidden past, encouraged him to live well for those who had died.

Lin Nansheng eventually became a beloved music teacher at Chunhui Primary School. In the spring of 1949, news of the People's Liberation Army's advance spread. Villagers excitedly brought Lin Nansheng to witness the arrival of the PLA, cheering in the streets. A radio broadcast announced the liberation of Hangzhou, Jiaxing, and North Zhejiang, as well as the encirclement of Nationalist forces in Shanghai. Deeply moved, Lin Nansheng re-established contact with the Party.

He met with Old Cheng, who informed him of the impending attack on Shanghai and the order for Lin Nansheng to wait for its liberation. Lin Nansheng immediately asked for news of Zhu Yizhen, but Old Cheng explained that while Wang Shi'an had been killed at the riverside, both Lin Nansheng and Zhu Yizhen had disappeared in the water, and she hadn't yet contacted the organization.

Lin Nansheng, holding onto hope, suggested she might have been rescued like him and presented a notebook with his analysis of her possible hideouts, urging the East China Bureau to conduct a thorough search once they entered Shanghai. Old Cheng promised to ensure the search continued. After Shanghai's liberation was announced, Lin Nansheng again inquired about Zhu Yizhen.

Old Cheng confirmed that despite extensive searching, she hadn't been found but reiterated the Party would not give up on finding their comrade. Lin Nansheng expressed his firm belief that Zhu Yizhen was still alive. Old Cheng then conveyed the organization's decision for Lin Nansheng to report to the East China Bureau at once, instructing him to prepare for pick-up the next morning.

Before departing Xietang Town to report to the East China Bureau, Lin Nansheng sat in his empty classroom. Overwhelmed by emotion, he reflected on all the comrades he had lost, especially Ji Zhongyuan and Lan Xinjie, and the lingering fear for Zhu Yizhen. He broke down, tears streaming as he thought of her. As he gathered himself and walked out of the school, he heard a familiar voice call his name: "Lin Nansheng."

He turned, and his shock gave way to immense joy as he saw Zhu Yizhen. She smiled, complimenting him on how good he looked in his military uniform. At the gate of Chunhui Primary School, Lin Nansheng and Zhu Yizhen, finally reunited, stood together with the children, singing a farewell song and taking photographs, cherishing the moment and creating lasting memories.