Nine Songs of Anti-Japanese War

The common people in Nanjing are increasingly unable to understand the situation.On the day I learned that Japan had surrendered, the appearance of this city was no different from other occupied cities. It was full of excited laughter and tears. People who didn’t know each other rushed to hug each other. There are more firecrackers set off in a day than in a whole winter.But after the carnival, people always have to go back to the life in front of them, and the background of this life is somewhat unreasonably chaotic: on the night of August 8th, amidst the ecstasy of the crowd and the cries of Japanese soldiers, the city center A large number of leaflets emerged, informing citizens to prepare for the recovery of Nanjing by the New Fourth Army.The puppet army, who was very nervous about this, dragged in heavy weapons such as cannons overnight, and set them up on traffic arteries.After all, the New Fourth Army did not come, but a high-ranking official appointed by Chongqing, an administrative inspector surnamed Zhou lurking in the puppet government, came.He didn't touch the Japanese first, but was busy catching traitors. After the senior officials of the puppet government were arrested and even died in the conflict, the "chairman" who had just lost his official title decided to fight Commissioner Zhou. This gun battle involved the military academy Students, the heavy weapons used to guard against the New Fourth Army have also become tools for the puppet army to deal with Commissioner Zhou.Bullets flew all over the sky, the civilians were silent, and the Japanese soldiers squatted silently in their strongholds and barracks to watch the excitement.After several days of chaos, a person ushered in at the west gate.

He was dressed in the uniform of an officer of the national army, and there was no rank on his collar badge, nor any other marks that could reflect his official position.When the jeep he was riding in stopped in front of the city gate, the puppet soldiers standing guard stopped them as a matter of course.

"What?"

"I'm here to do a lot of things. Simply put, I'm here to take over the city."

"Do you have any supporting documents?"

"Yes, but not for you."

The guards were perplexed.The other party looked like a regular soldier, but he didn't have a military rank, and he didn't show him the supporting documents. How could he make a decision?If a New Fourth Army or unaffiliated bandits were let in, he would not be able to bear the responsibility.But if the person offended is really a big shot, he will have a hard time in the future.

He was still hesitating, and the non-commissioned officer behind him spoke on his behalf: "You don't even have a military rank, and you just bring a driver and two soldiers. How do you look like you are here to receive the city's officials? Besides, Commissioner Zhou has already entered the city. Where are you?" A counterfeit here? If you refuse to give proof, you can’t prove it, right? Go, go, don’t interfere with our work!"

A soldier in the back seat of the car was annoyed: "You don't have eyes—"

"Wait." The officer without a military rank suppressed his subordinates, and then looked at the non-commissioned officer with a half-smile. Under that bluffing face, there was no doubt that there was panic about his future. "Of course I know that Zhou Hao has come. Then you should know more about his performance these days. Has he completed a peaceful handover, or is it getting more and more chaotic? I think the Japanese soldiers are still patrolling the city wall, not like a victory handover. ?”

"..."

"My certificate is for Zhou Hao, and it is not in compliance to show it now. As for my lack of military rank, it is because my position cannot be resumed until the aftermath of the War of Resistance Against Japan is completed. If you insist on not allowing us to enter the city, I can only Let’s back down first, and let the Chongqing side give instructions to the city.”

The guard was visibly shaken, and whispered something in the sergeant's ear, but the sergeant still stood there for a while, as if caught in a great contradiction.

The soldier who spoke in the back seat just now couldn't bear it anymore: "This is Nanjing! Your capital, the master of the city behind you! You gatekeepers blocked the master from the outside, have you eaten the heart of a bear and the guts of a leopard!"

The sergeant's mind went blank, and he took half a step back in horror and bewilderment.As soon as the word "Fang" came out of his mouth, the jeep roared past the city gate, and he took a deep breath of car exhaust.

The jeep pulls onto the highway, headed for the Central Reserve Bank.As soon as the tension dissipated, the driver couldn't help but said, "Sir, it's not convenient for them to see the documents given to Commissioner Zhou, but don't you have other proofs? Why do you have to ask them for nothing?"

Nanjing is facing the car window, scanning everything familiar and unfamiliar in the city.Hearing the question, he leaned back in the car seat, expressionless, and said casually: "There is no reason—just to tease them."

There was no second person present in the conversation between Nanjing and Commissioner Zhou, but after this brief conversation, people found that Commissioner Zhou looked depressed, and it was spread one after another that there would be a senior official to take over his job, and the surviving puppet army leaders The armed forces are all withdrawn with gold.The next day, Shanghai came.He was wearing casual clothes, and he carried all the documents, and he had come and gone a lot in the past few years, and the guards knew him at first, so he entered the city without any problems, and found a mansion of former puppet military officials temporarily staying in Nanjing.

"I said," he said the first time he saw Nanjing, "we will definitely meet again in five years."

After making tea, Nanjing leaned over and put the tray on the low table: "Yes, great prophet. When will you predict that we both will reach the pinnacle of life?"

"Well... I haven't mastered my cultivation yet, so let's wait a few more years. What's more, what you say will come true, and the causal relationship is reversed." Shanghai put his chin on his face and said seriously, "It's not called prophecy, it's called magic. "

"Then you think about it and change careers to be a magician?"

"Well, it's a little difficult to become a monk halfway..."

Both of them were embarrassed to talk nonsense in a serious manner, and laughed together.Finally stopped laughing, Nanjing said: "Okay. Is there something you want to come over?"

"The name is to check the assets at the headquarters of the Central Bank of China, and leave the data for supervision. But I don't have to do this. I mainly want to see you."

"How about Shanghai? Is there any trouble during the power vacuum period? ... No, I'm confused, how do you know after you've come here? Are you not worried?"

"I followed up, it's okay." Shanghai couldn't sit still very much. After drinking two sips of tea, he started wandering around the room, admiring the exquisite decoration and collection left by the previous owner.He walked to a gun display case, bent down and looked down, nodded slightly with appreciation while watching, "I can't say it's harmonious, but it's a trivial matter compared to you."

Nanjing remembered what he had seen and heard in the morning and was still angry. "Heh! Thinking about it makes me angry, so many troubles have been caused in one handover! We still have to rely on Japanese soldiers to stand guard and maintain law and order..."

"It's not a few days away, just bear with it."

"Commissioner Zhou still wants to do something big." Nanjing signaled Shanghai to come over, and waited for the other party to approach before saying in a low voice, "He made a letter of acceptance for Neiji Okamura to surrender to him!"

Shanghai felt incredible: "Someone instructed him?"

"No. God knows what he thinks! If Okamura Neiji really surrendered to him, what will happen to the surrender of the entire Chinese theater? Where will he put the Chongqing government?" Nanking shook his head, "The government is so big. After lurking for so many years, why did you lose your mind?"

"Calm down, anyway, the surrender ceremony was not really done, so it won't be embarrassing."

"It's really embarrassing, I don't have time to sit here." Nanjing smiled, folded his legs, and leaned slightly towards Shanghai, "Shanghai, we meet again after a long time, let me be weak, and say a few words of truth: Now, I am generally very happy. But occasionally, once or twice a day, I will suddenly feel particularly uncomfortable..."

Shanghai faintly felt that this was a posture for a long talk.He put down the Browning he was playing with just now, returned to the sofa chair, and asked with concern, "Why?"

"As long as the Anti-Japanese War is over, will other problems disappear? We know a little bit more, no, and some problems are still more fermented in these years and need to be solved more urgently. The thinking of the upper management is still It is not clear, and the judgment of 'what counts as a problem' is not good. The danger of external aggression has disappeared, but the potential internal dangers have accumulated too much, and the external threats will go away before they will explode inside."

"Well." Shanghai expressed understanding, "From my point of view, I think the recovery of the territory is still superficial. The upper management should not pay too much attention to whether it occupies more or less land in Yan'an. The reception and restructuring of the economic content is It’s very important and difficult, everyone is celebrating the victory of the war, and they can’t care about anything else, but if the enthusiasm passes and you find that you won the war but you don’t have enough food or clothing, then you will be in big trouble.”

"Yes... when the economy is bad, all moths will fly out! The situation in Yan'an sounds very attractive. Life is easy, democratic, and there is hope for life..." Nanjing's voice gradually slowed down, with a bit of strangeness tone, "When you're hungry, if you mention 'democracy' to a young man, they'll run around the streets like they've been beaten with chicken blood, and they don't care about their lives! Shanghai has always been a place full of students, I hope you pay more attention a little."

"But there's nothing wrong with that. Didn't the Republic of China talk about democracy at the beginning? At present, people's hearts are still very much towards the government. Taking advantage of the good time, we can take advantage of the trend and do more." Shanghai was a little embarrassed while talking.

"It's because you haven't completely stumbled on this kind of thing. Without that kind of soil, you can't bloom that kind of flowers. It's not bad here or there!" Nanjing grabbed the armrest of the chair, unable to hide his worry. , "It's just that there is still time, a little more time, maybe there is room for improvement. But a small city's reception has been messed up. How big is our ability? I'm worried that the key step will be wrong. It's all about losing."

"Isn't the crucial step still to be taken? There are many efforts that can be made." Shanghai alluded to the possible future contacts and negotiations between the two parties.

"This is a positive idea, and I also need to consider the bad development. I need time and support..." The teacup has bottomed out, and Nanjing is still holding it in my hand, asking, "Can you guarantee that you will always stand by my side ?"

This sentence directly threw Shanghai into a mess of contradictions.In the end, he was ruthless and said, "No."

Nanjing lowered his eyes.

"I will try my best, but I can't guarantee. The capital's position may be relatively simple, but our general cities cannot. I am the Shanghai of foreign adventurers, the Shanghai of compradors, the Shanghai of national entrepreneurs, the Shanghai of bureaucrats; I am also the Shanghai of workers , the Shanghai of the literary and art circles, the Shanghai of the students, the Shanghai of the peasants...do you think, what position should I use to face you, so as to ensure that I will always stand by your side?"

Seeing that Nanjing did not respond, Shanghai paused for a moment, and then said: "If you want to reconcile and sublimate all these positions...then only progress is worth believing in."

"I know..." Nanjing said softly, "I know you don't agree. I also like your honesty. Others say you are shrewd and caressing, but you really mean what you say. Those people and my old Guys can't do that. You don't hook up with people and stab them in the back, good, really good..."

Nanjing asked Shanghai for a cigarette.After the two smokes were lit, the atmosphere was as usual, but the swirling smoke was like pouring inappropriate milk into a cup of coffee, which added a little subtlety.Even though we got together, the distance between our hearts seemed to be a little bit farther after being honest.With some redeeming thoughts, Shanghai changed the subject, but this was what he wanted to say: "Hangzhou told me a long time ago that after the War of Resistance is over, the iron bridge on the Qiantang River must be repaired quickly. He wants to start construction." At that time, please go to Suzhou, you and me, and take a good rest, and taste the fruits of victory."

The construction of the Qiantang River Bridge cost millions of dollars, and it was the pride of all citizens, especially Hangzhou, with the efforts of countless people and technical experts.Unfortunately, when it was completed and opened to traffic, the Battle of Songhu was about to fail, and people had to blow it up before retreating. The iron bridge was only in service for three months.Hangzhou must be very worried about this. It is estimated that as soon as the news of victory arrived, he would be looking for people to discuss the restoration plan.

"Well, the idea is pretty good." Nanjing really seemed to have sorted out his mood, "Let's discuss a time, everyone should go there when they are free."

Shanghai felt a little better.Whether it's the relationship between the two of them or the future of this country, as long as you have enough time, you shouldn't worry too much, right?

Tomorrow, hopefully tomorrow will be better.

The battleship USS Missouri moored quietly in Tokyo Bay was crowded with people.From five-star Navy Admiral Nimitz and Army Five-Star Admiral MacArthur and representatives of allied countries, down to the most common privates, plus hundreds of reporters occupying the places reserved for them on the deck, dense crowds of people headed the ship. The originally wide deck of the battleship was also a bit cramped.

Under the morning sun and the attention of the entire ship, the escort raised the Stars and Stripes and the national anthem of the same name to the top.In this sea of ​​songs and smiles, few people noticed that another US warship not far away had a different national flag with only 34 stars on it.Tokyo spotted the flag when a Japanese delegation headed by the new Japanese foreign minister, Aoi Shigemitsu, approached in a destroyer.

He opened his lips lightly, and uttered a few syllables almost inaudibly: "Black Ship..."

"What?" Osaka, who was standing behind him, responded while asking the question. When General Perry forced Japan to open to the United States in 1854, his warships flew the 34-star Star-Spangled Banner.Someone in the US must have found such a flag on purpose, maybe it was the real one back then.

Osaka cleared his throat: "Cough, it's time like this, they can't help but show off...everything is over after today, you mustn't be overwhelmed..."

"Ridiculous. When have I ever lost my mind?"

"Well, not long ago, when you were bombed and lay face down on the road to eat dirt, you looked very worried."

Tokyo frowned silently. This matter that can be listed as a major stain in his life was bumped into by Osaka, and it was brought up again, which really made him not very happy.But Osaka was kind to him in this matter, and he didn't like to get angry, so he just said: "You know I don't have that kind of idea, so there's no need to joke. It's approaching the Missouri, get ready."

"Yeah. After the next few 10 minutes, let's go back and have a good lunch, rest, and discuss the future with everyone..."

It will be difficult for Tokyo to explain why this awkward surrender ceremony chose to take Osaka instead of Yokohama.But now he feels that this choice should not be wrong, it can draw part of his attention away, and he should not immerse himself in frustration.After being seen by the other party's most embarrassing moment, the atmosphere between them has become strangely harmonious, and they can even get a little sense of relaxation from each other without having to bear expectations-this happens to be something Yokohama can't give.More importantly, they can finally look at the same front again.

But this sense of relaxation is also limited.As Foreign Minister Shigemitsu dragged his prosthetic left leg — which was blown up in a Shanghai assassination in 1932 — slowly and arduously up the gangway, thousands of Americans and other allies stared Projected the same way, no one in the Japanese delegation can stay out of anxiety and pain.But Tokyo still allocated a little energy to look at the US delegation.No Washington.very good.

The only city represented on the US team is Seattle.He stood in an inconspicuous position in the delegation in a suit and leather shoes, with a little joy in his indifferent expression, he only cast a slight glance to this side, and then looked away.No matter what the United States thinks about finalizing the candidate, Tokyo is grateful.He will not be ready to face Washington again in a short period of time-even though in theory, the American capital will no longer be an enemy after today.

In stark contrast to the Japanese side sitting on pins and needles is the mood of the allies on board.Both parties were in a state of constant excitement, so the process of signing the instrument of surrender was like a dream for both parties, very clear but not like reality.When the people on the winning side realized that the ceremony had come to an end, they even felt a little unfinished.

"Let us pray for the restoration of peace in the world, and for God to maintain peace forever." MacArthur slightly elongated his tone and concluded, "The agenda is over."

The Japanese delegation left in an orderly manner. They obviously didn't want to stay surrounded by this group of Americans for a second.The Missouri began to congratulate each other.Seattle was thoughtful, and walked to the railing with his clerk, facing the inner side of Tokyo Bay.

"Did you see that? Tokyo has been observing General MacArthur in a restrained manner except when he bowed his head to sign."

The clerk was a little surprised, thought about it carefully, nodded and said: "It seems to be true. It's the kind of careful, but not weird looking."

"The surrender ceremony just now must have been very uncomfortable for him... probably the one that felt the worst. However, these high-ranking officials and generals in the Japanese delegation will basically be tried in a short time, and they all know that this seat will not last long. Only Tokyo..." Seattle stroked his chin.During the fatigue of the Pacific battlefield, he neglected to control the growth of stubble, until yesterday he remembered to wipe them off with a razor, and he was not used to the cleanness of the tentacles. "Only him, and whether or not Mr. Washington wants him to spend some time in jail, he'll be back where he was."

The affairs officer also understood: "He is preparing for the future. He knows that General MacArthur will be above the emperor in Japanese politics from now on, so he is taking advantage of this face-to-face opportunity to figure out the general..."

"It's pretty awesome, isn't it? It's already so humiliating and uncomfortable, and you can still do this kind of subtle observation. I think it's necessary to remind Mr. Washington what kind of character his new partner has." The voice landed, After a sudden silence, Seattle smiled and shook his head. "No. Mr. Washington must know him better than we think..."

He and the steward each poured a glass of whiskey to celebrate the successful completion of the surrender ceremony.At this time, MacArthur's relaxed and loud voice came from the center of the crowd: "Bill, where is the plane?"

They turned their heads, and Japan's "emperor" in the next few years was looking up at the sky while wrapping his arms around his colleague Halsey.At the same time, the overwhelming hum of aircraft approached.This time they had no fear, no need to dodge, for it was purely a proof of victory that flew by in celebration of victory.Under the clear sky in the morning, the silvery white wings of the planes reflected the dazzling sunlight, one formation after another, densely passing over their heads as if they were endless.

Seattle leaned against the guardrail, looked at the slightly dazzling silvery white in the sky, gently closed his eyes, let the sea breeze blow, and the sun poured unreservedly on his face.

The most tragic war in human history officially came to an end on this day - September 1945, 9.The bullets are rusting, the gunfire is quiet, and grass and flowers will grow on the ground where the bones of soldiers and civilians are buried.As for whether the same painful tragedy will happen in the future, or even an even more immeasurable disaster...

Only God knows.

Only time will tell.

"I feel that the will of our people must lead to a series of interlinked goals, that is, a new government of unity, a new society that will no longer suffer from want in economy, and will no longer be suppressed in expression. The meaning of the war of resistance in our country More than just getting rid of external oppression, the rise of various small parties during this period will play a key role in shaping post-war society. Although they are unarmed and unable to directly compete with the rulers, they have a potential ally who has fully grown That's it... In the future, whether our country will go to the bright world or continue to struggle in the quagmire may only depend on the thoughts of certain characters. What is certain is that, in any case, the world that KMT expects to be fully controlled by itself will inevitably be shattered ( In fact, it has never existed), what will be born is a new world..."

Moscow adjusted to a more relaxed sitting position in the chair and turned a page of the letter.He could perceive the overall frankness and some ambiguity between the lines in Beiping's words. It seemed that when he was talking about the future of his country with him, he was simply sharing the common good wishes of mankind, and the actual things in it had nothing to do with the recipient.This degree should be regarded as a good grasp. Moscow has obtained some interesting ideas that have nothing to do with specific actions. Although the boundaries are clear, it will not make him feel dishonesty pushed aside.

However, he is more interested in what follows.After all, the above words can be said by many people with a slight modification, but the latter really belongs to him alone.

"Your letter asked us to be more honest with each other. How to start? Sometimes you talk about maintaining our current connection, in this situation, at this distance, it seems like a fantasy... Sometimes the mood changes, And as you said, it is very simple. People can retreat and stagnate in their own world, or they can easily become optimistic and willing to try more. Before I received your letter, I have been back to my city for a while. In the midst of joy, I often feel anxious about the future, and I am not sure whether what you said that night can be realized... But after reading your letter, I suddenly feel that there is hope, and there is no absolute resistance .I can do a lot of things, for the country and for myself. In the scene of the autumn leaves, many beautiful imaginations emerge in a flash... If I say it completely, I will inevitably be laughed at by you, because I There was such a childish moment."

Moscow couldn't help laughing.He felt a little regretful that the other party didn't "speak out completely", but it didn't matter, there were still opportunities in the future.

The rest of the letter more tactfully expressed the meaning of looking forward to his next letter.After reading, Moscow put away the letters and carefully stored them in the specially vacated drawer.The drawer is still very empty, waiting to be filled slowly in the future.

He glanced at the wall clock, left the study, and walked towards the car parked at the gate of the yard.

"Brother," he just got into the back seat, and St. Petersburg, who was sitting on the side of the back seat, pointed out, "Why are you so happy? It stands to reason that the TV broadcast we are going to watch today doesn't make you expect so much."

Moskow's expression froze for a moment, and then the sky turned cloudy: "I thought I was restrained... I would have known better if I had thought about the broadcaster first, so it would be effective."

"Well, what do you mean?"

"Nothing. I mean, let's go."

One Europe and one Atlantic Ocean away, New York hummed a little song and wandered into the living room of Washington's house without knocking.He ran for a while in the nearby park in the morning before visiting, and his lungs were filled with the crisp and clean autumn air, making him feel very comfortable.

Washington was already in the living room, and he didn't greet him. He pushed a coffee cup on the table in the direction of New York: "Are you coming? This is your cup. The coffee is ready, go to the kitchen and adjust the flavor yourself. "

Adding milk and sugar in New York depends on the mood. Even friends who are very familiar with it can't guess what flavor he wants to drink today.New York took the cup with a hum, and Shi Shiran sat next to Washington holding a steaming black coffee when he came back.

He asked, "Is it a special day today? Let me come over in the morning."

"It's a special day. Looks like you didn't notice..."

"I'm so sorry!" New York's brain immediately turned into a high-speed operation. Except for him, Washington didn't call anyone else. Could it be that there are important things to do or something important to say?Originally, he happened to be working in the Capital District these two days, and thought that Washington's invitation was just to chat with him as a companion, but the other party obviously didn't think so.Did he really forget some important arrangement?Although he had to accept the fait accompli and couldn't hope for development beyond the standard, Washington offered to invite solitude, thinking that he would be happy to leave an Englishman behind... Wait, isn't it?

Just at this time Washington turned on the TV.The voice of the hostess came out: "The following is a broadcast of the British capital's visit to Bern, Switzerland..."

Washington explained: "I don't know why, the TV station announced the rebroadcast time two hours earlier. I think you happen to be watching it together."

Taking advantage of Washington's focus on the TV, New York made a face at the clear figure of London in front of the camera, and said, "Well, we should watch it together, and we can discuss it later."

During the war, London's appearances were almost always in uniform.For a period of time, his always pale and haggard face due to bombing and overtime work and his military uniform that was always straightened with ironing pens left a deep impression on people.Now, on TV, in the peaceful country of Switzerland, after the war is finally over, he changes into a plain white suit that suits him better.This echoes the content of his upcoming speech: to show unspecified countries in the world the call to cherish peace and move forward together after the war.

"Ladies and gentlemen!" Standing in front of the podium, London was as calm and impeccable as ever. "Today I am honored to be invited by Berne to stand in front of the podium on this beautiful day..."

London thanked the Swiss people for their welcome, recalled the efforts to end the war, and thanked comrades-in-arms in various allies.Then he mentioned the building of the United Nations, pointing out the aspects that should be strengthened if this international organization is to take responsibility in future international affairs as expected, and expressed the hope that Switzerland can also play an active role in the organization—but did not talk about whether Switzerland To join the topic of the United Nations.

Washington and New York, who had been listening carefully, did not turn their heads when exchanging ideas. They just stared at the TV screen and said, "Do you feel that he has changed a bit?"

"I think." New York said quite sincerely, "His tone has become more sincere! The words of thanks to the Soviets are actually very sincere, which I never dared to think of before."

Washington smiled slightly: "That is to say, he has become milder."

"Oh, sort of."

London went on to speak of Europe's post-war recovery and the role of American allies in these matters.Although extra care should be taken when it comes to your own country, New York and Washington did not hear much from it. Although the speech was pertinent and inspiring, it did not explicitly raise any demands or exert any pressure.They leaned back on the sofa and listened for a while, relaxing and sitting up straight again when the topic of London returned to the situation in England.

"I know people talk about: what's going to happen, what's going to change, what's never been heard before, what's going to be gone forever. Yes, we can't go back to the past for all of us. A century ago, The whole world seems to have suddenly quickened its pace and is in constant social change; war, though first of all an armed conflict between nations, is certainly a change. We have been baptized by war, and we can no longer hope to return to the old life. Everything will gradually change, and the end of the war is only the first step.

"I can't say exactly what the future will be like some people. It would be irresponsible for me to say it. But judging from our social conditions in Britain, we can still grasp a little bit of the future. Victory in war is great Achievement, but this achievement does not only belong to those generals with medals on their chests, handsome politicians, and smart and capable wealthy businessmen. Achievements belong to all citizens, ordinary soldiers who charge for the country, pay the price of blood and sweat, and even their lives, and belong to the rear Women who took over the jobs of men. When they return to their old positions, the ruling elite must have no illusions that they are content with the pre-war order. That is impossible: the lower and middle classes are no longer As part of the command, they have realized their importance and want to demand broader rights and more attention."

London made a slight shift here, saying that good social reforms should be done in the right way on the basis of ensuring the freedom of all people. Procedural justice is also very important, and used this topic to express a little dissatisfaction with the Soviet Union's occupation of East Germany.

He didn't linger too long on a digression before returning to the main topic: "I think their appeal deserves to be heeded, although it must be gradual. Their awakening will bring about the awakening of the whole society, and that is the dawn of our European future. No one Not even the greatest figures of our time can control the changes in society. But we can follow the trend and act in accordance with the appeal of justice, instead of clinging to the old things that seem to be taken for granted but cannot stand scrutiny. Every day Individuals have to re-understand their own position and reach understanding and unity. Human beings have lost too many good qualities in the war. Facing a piece of ruins, we must find the core part inside, so that we can resist the future. wind and waves, and prevent such a tragic war from happening next time. Those qualities are: trust between people, friendliness, love..."

New York and Washington looked at each other, seeing wonder in each other's eyes.

London's epilogue was flat compared to before.Below, he was escorted by a guard of honor in a carriage and drove through Bern's main street.Walking to a bell tower, a group of white pigeons flapped their wings and took off from the roof, passing shadows on the ancient bluestone brick road.The daring pigeon landed on the carriage, and even landed on London's outstretched finger.London, dressed in pure white, stood among the pigeons, as if melting into their white figures... Even through the low-definition black and white TV, the scene was still beautiful, like a dream.

After the broadcast, New York and Washington walked together on the open corridor outside the living room.

"I was a little surprised by his performance." Washington pondered for a while before speaking, "He is not exactly like the capital of the 'British Empire' before."

"I thought you'd like it?"

"Yes, I like him that way. I love him and sincerely hope for a bright future for his country and for Europe. But London only touches at best a part of the sensitive post-war topic. He doesn't talk about—"

"Colonies," New York said.

Washington nodded. "He talked about the middle and lower classes demanding more rights, isn't that the same between countries? Can you expect the colonies after a major war to be willing to submit to the rule of those old European empires? I think London understands of."

"I think he must understand. Britain won the war, but it has become less important. Just rebuilding after the war will exhaust the country's best efforts, and how can it maintain a high position? Even people like London," said New York. I don't like him, but I recognize his ability in my heart, "I can't do anything in the face of the inevitable decline of the country."

"In the past two months, the United Kingdom has praised our country's garrison in Europe for not showing any tendency to occupy territory. This is actually what London calls the 'collapse of the old order'. The way for powerful countries to gain benefits is no longer in the form of Occupying territory is the main way. And 'the end of the war is only the first step', he is right, everything in the world is about to change, and nothing can stay the same." Washington said calmly, looking at the skyline , "As for the next country to succeed the United Kingdom - it must also adapt to changes and assume corresponding responsibilities."

New York looked at him and said, "And I'm happy to share with you."

"You must be us? Some people may think it is the country on the other side of the Bering Strait."

"I don't believe you don't have the confidence yet." New York didn't blush and was out of breath, "Besides, we are the best, and this will never change."

"Thank you, York." Washington looked back at him. "My dear friend..."

It was almost noon, and the sun rose higher.It caresses the yellowing autumn woods, the rushing Potomac River, and the hares frolicking on the lawn.The air was getting cooler and the first post-war autumn was drawing to a close.Then the sun would dwindle, the snow would fall, the animals would hide, and the people would retreat into their houses for the dead of winter.Then the sun will shine again on the world, brighter and more powerful than before in every corner.

That is an unchanging sun, but it is also a brand new sun after the beginning of a new cycle of four seasons.

On the way south, Beiping and Tianjin had a happy talk.Although the traffic line has not been completely repaired, there are always problems and