Cheng Su’s small restaurant renovation was in full swing, while over in the military camp where Qi Taiguo was stationed, there would also be a major change—troop downsizing, otherwise known as military cuts.
"To clearly respond to the Military Commission’s purpose for military reform, I propose that we should gradually transform our forces into an organization that is streamlined, with agile command, top-notch equipment, well-trained personnel, rapid response, and strong combat capabilities. In this reform and restructuring, the mission of downsizing involves, firstly, reducing the army quota of our battalion, with a total reduction of two hundred personnel across the army. Second, reform military system structure and at the same time establish some relevant systems. Report complete!" The newly appointed deputy battalion commander, Dong Jun, saluted the senior leader and then sat down.
Qi Taiguo’s brows were deeply furrowed. The announcement of significant reforms to the military had been issued, and he knew it, but he hadn’t expected Dong Jun to seize upon it so quickly.
If the reform was successful, then many soldiers would inevitably be cut, and not a small number would transition to civilian careers—Old Zhou...
His gaze drifted subconsciously toward Old Zhou, who sat beside him, silent. The expression on his face was indifferent, as if the matter didn’t concern him at all.
"This organizational reform and downsizing exercise is extensive, with a broad scope and complex issues, and the task is extremely arduous. To ensure the stability of the troops and the normal development of various military constructions, it needs to be carried out methodically and step by step. Starting in August, we’ll reorganize the entire military, demobilize and transition in batches, and support the national economic construction. Dismissed," Regimental Commander Mai picked up the document from the table and stood up.
In the bustling conference room, Qi Taiguo walked over to Commander Zhou and said, "Commander Zhou, can my wife cook a couple of dishes and we have a couple of drinks at my place?"
"Sure! I’ve been looking forward to your wife’s cooking!" Commander Zhou laughed heartily.
"Commander Qi, can I tag along?" Someone raised their hand.
"Count me in as well."
In just a moment, five or six people offered to join for the meal, all from within Qi Taiguo’s close circle, so he smiled and agreed.
Hearing the laughter, Dong Jun looked back, then nonchalantly turned away to follow Regimental Commander Mai’s steps.
Qi Taiguo’s expression darkened.
Upon receiving Qi Taiguo’s instructions, Cheng Su also got busy. With only a few people to cook for, the meal was quickly prepared. Once it was on the table, she took the opportunity to discuss restaurant matters with Qiulan, leaving a space for the men to talk.
Old Zhou, with a laugh, prodded Qi Taiguo with his chopsticks and said, "Not bad, you’ve got your wife well trained."
At that, everyone looked at Qi Taiguo.
Qi Taiguo flushed slightly and coughed twice, saying, "What are you talking about? Let’s drink."
The gathering chuckled and made light of the comment.
"What do you think about this downsizing?" After two drinks, Qi Taiguo looked at Commander Zhou.
"It’s been decades since liberation, the country is stable, and there’s no need for war, so there’s also no need to support so many idle soldiers. Downsizing is about trimming expenses; with the savings, military funds can be directed toward superior equipment. As for the people cut, they can help with the economy. It’s very good, very good indeed!" Commander Zhou said after downing a glass of liquor.
"As for me..." Commander Zhou managed a strained smile. "What can I do? It depends on whether I can get transferred to a decent place when I transition to civilian life. Later on, if you guys need help, I should still be able to lend a hand."
The others hurried to console him: "Don’t talk like that. Who says it’s going to be you? It might be me."
"Right, right, it’s probably me."
Qi Taiguo pursed his lips and drank silently.