Du Congrong, having served in the military, valued his savior above all else.
Xia Feng had saved his life, making him a benefactor.
Even without Elder Li's connection, Du Congrong would have been grateful to Xia Feng.
However, after speaking with Elder Li, Du Congrong was utterly shocked.
He could not have imagined that Xia Feng could contact Elder Li directly. Not only that, but Elder Li showed him immense respect, so much so that it unsettled Du Congrong. Elder Li had also mentioned Elder Huang felt the same way. What did this imply?
This completely defied Du Congrong's understanding of the world. What troubled him most was that Elder Li did not disclose Xia Feng's identity, leaving Du Congrong quite frustrated.
Regardless, Du Congrong understood one thing: Xia Feng's background was incredibly powerful, so powerful that he could only look up to it.
Perhaps there were things he didn't know that made Xia Feng so formidable.
"No need. I've already made myself clear. Helping you is my own volition. After your contributions to this country, it is my duty as a junior to assist you," Xia Feng waved his hand, unconcerned with how Du Congrong might repay him.
Given Xia Feng's status, were any forms of repayment truly significant?
They were utterly unimportant.
"I know you lack nothing, and I know you wouldn't care for my repayment. But I bear a heart full of gratitude. I won't say too much by way of thanks. Could you please stay in Yangcheng for one day so I can fulfill my duties as a host?"
Du Congrong understood Xia Feng's identity and knew he wouldn't be interested in his meager offerings.
After all, given Xia Feng's status and circumstances, he should want for nothing.
To offer repayment in monetary terms would be vulgar and meaningless, likely even provoking Xia Feng.
At Xia Feng's level, could he truly be lacking money?
The answer was clearly no.
Therefore, Du Congrong followed Xia Feng's suggestion, refraining from further thanks and instead inviting Xia Feng to stay in Yangcheng for a day to explore the city, as a token of his appreciation.
Xia Feng paused for a moment, then finally nodded, "Alright, it would be impolite to refuse."
He had nothing else to do, and it was his first time in Yangcheng. Exploring the city would be enjoyable.
"Thank you, thank you," Du Congrong's face finally broke into a smile.
"Elder Du, you can call your family in now. They have been anxiously waiting," Xia Feng said with a slight smile.
"Yes, yes, I'll go get them," Du Congrong felt no discomfort in his body. As soon as he finished speaking, he strode towards the ward door with a vigorous step.
Xia Feng didn't offer to go himself, deeming it unnecessary. Although Du Congrong was old, he was currently as robust as a young man. Letting him open the door himself would also provide a surprise for his family.
Du Congrong was aware of his physical state, feeling as if he had shed twenty to thirty years.
This wonderful sensation was something he had only experienced in his youth.
Thus, for Du Congrong, this was a rebirth.
Du Congrong reached the door and opened the ward room.
His children, who had been anxiously waiting outside, were startled as the door swung open and turned their gaze toward the room.
The first person they saw was not Xia Feng, but their father, Du Congrong.
Everyone's expression froze, some even doubting their own eyes.
After a careful examination, they realized it truly was Du Congrong, and cries of surprise erupted:
"Dad..."
"Grandpa..."