"Halt, who's there?" Several guns pointed at Zhou You. He shouted, "I'm looking for General Qin Xun."

"Identify yourself. What business do you have with General Qin?"

Just as Zhou You was contemplating whether to give a fake name, someone rushed out from the checkpoint, saluted Zhou You, and said, "Brother Zhou, what brings you here?"

Zhou You, who had left home that morning without disguise and only donned a cap and sunglasses, hadn't expected to be recognized.

"You are...?"

"I serve under General Zhuo. My name is Ning. I've also been stationed here at the border."

"Zhuo Hao... He got a promotion?"

"Yes, we received the notification yesterday. He's been promoted to Major General. General Qin was quite upset about it."

"Hahaha... Who's talking behind my back?" A military motorcycle roared forward, stopping in front of Zhou You.

Zhou You greeted him, surprised that Qin Xun was here. Just an hour ago, he had received an inquiring phone call.

"Did Mr. Zhou come here alone?"

"Yes."

"What's the purpose of your visit?"

Zhou You looked in a certain direction, speaking in a deep voice, "Just to take a look around. I might stay for a few days. I hope it's not inconvenient?"

Qin Xun knew exactly where he was looking and felt a pang in his heart. "No inconvenience at all. I'd actually feel more at ease with you here. Let me arrange accommodation for you. The city is still under repair, and all the construction teams are currently working on the military base. It might be best if you stay in our camp."

"Thank you."

"No need for thanks." Qin Xun mounted his bike and led the way, with Zhou You driving behind. The guards on duty were all curious about who this visitor was that required General Qin's personal attention.

The news wasn't exactly a secret, and it quickly spread throughout the military camp: Zhou You had arrived, and his purpose was simple, to pay his respects here.

Zhou You had missed the funeral initially, and while there was a lot of online backlash for it, many understood his reasons.

When a loved one passes, many prefer to grieve privately, away from prying eyes. Now, isn't he here at this sorrowful place?

"Any new discoveries here?" Zhou You asked, sitting opposite Qin Xun with a cup of hot tea before him.

"None. We found the location where you last defeated the enemy. The bodies have been scavenged by wild animals, but we brought back everything useful. They probably haven't gotten the news, so they're hesitant to act."

"So, is General Qin planning to wait for the enemy to make a move?"

Qin Xun, understanding his implication, explained, "Our current orders are to solidify our military base here. Once completed, we'll extend our defense to the border. This entire area will soon be a safe zone."

"Sounds like a hefty task."

Qin Xun sighed, "Personally, I believe an offensive isn't out of the question, but we need the right timing. The hottest months are approaching, and crossing that desert won't be easy. Moreover, without their main leadership, the central army is at a disadvantage."

"Based on seniority, General Qin has a chance to step up," Zhou You remarked casually.

Qin Xun gave him a longer look, chuckling, "Mr. Zhou, there's no need to probe. Even if I had the ambition, I know my limitations. Do you think just anyone can sit firmly in the Marshal's seat?"

"Then let me be direct, who does General Qin support?"

"It's uncertain, but I won't oppose whoever it is. Whoever takes the position becomes my leader."

"So, General Qin is neutral." Zhou You nodded, understanding his stance and recognizing his honesty.

Back in his room, Zhou You saw Shao Qi online, "Who are you emailing?"

"Several people."

"Not hiding it anymore?"

"You're planning to bring me back openly, right? I need to prepare them and handle some matters."

"You sound so nonchalant. Why didn't you do this when you first escaped?" Zhou You's irritation was evident, even though he knew Shao Qi had made contact.

"Because I only trust you." Shao Qi quickly pacified him with sweet words and feigned weakness.

Zhou You watched as Shao Qi typed using a military encrypted account, undoubtedly surprising the recipients.

Once the last email was sent, Zhou You carried Shao Qi out of the camp, evading patrols and surveillance, covering several kilometers in an instant.

He lifted Shao Qi into a tall tree, looking out from its peak, "Have you ever really looked at this land you turned into scorched earth?"

Shao Qi rolled his eyes, "I'm practically disabled now; I can't climb this high."

"True. Last time I was so close to finding you, only to miss you by a whisker. Come on, let's revisit those old spots." Zhou You jumped down from the tree with Shao Qi on his back, the wind howling around them as if in lament.

The pit remained the same, yet with his sharp eyes, Zhou You noticed that grass had begun to sprout at the bottom. Such tenacity of life! Perhaps in no time, this scorched earth will transform back into a lush meadow.

Shao Qi sat on the edge of the pit, watching Zhou You, who brought offerings for a memorial.

Shao Qi understood his intention. Against the backdrop of his grand funeral, Yao Chen and the others had a much more subdued memorial, and that was the eternal ache in Shao Qi's heart.

Once Zhou You had set up the offerings, he said, “I'll take a look around, you...”

Grateful for his thoughtfulness, Shao Qi poured wine and muttered many words. They had faced countless life and death situations, but they never anticipated that a final goodbye would come so quickly and unexpectedly.