The Candidates from Each Family (Part Two)

The Lei family's gathering was somewhat different from the Liu family's. It was held almost entirely in the courtyard, where a large round table had been set up.

The men from each family brought their children and sat there obediently, while the women prepared dinner in the kitchen.

Whenever this time came around, every little rascal in the Lei family became unusually well-behaved. They kept their heads down and stayed silent, afraid of attracting the Old Man's attention.

But they could never hide forever. The Old Man had never missed this annual tradition. Originally, it was held during the New Year, but because of the Luofu election incident, every family had hurriedly arranged for their children to return. As a result, more people had gathered than during the New Year celebrations of previous years.

The Old Man gazed at the large table with satisfaction. Looking at the vigorous children seated around it, he felt as though he were admiring the Little Cabbages he had cultivated for years, finally grown to maturity. It gave him a tremendous sense of accomplishment. Four generations under one roof, descendants flourishing—he felt that he had made many contributions to both his family and his country throughout his life. This life had not been in vain...

"Lei Hao, tell us about yourself first. You've grown even sturdier. How have the past two years in the army been?" the Old Man asked.

"Yes, Grandpa!" As the oldest, Lei Hao had been prepared for this. He hurriedly replied respectfully, "For the past two years, I've been carrying out missions in the West Sea XX Zone, responsible for the safety of the shipping routes there and the capture of pirates. The specific operations I participated in included XXXXX. Under the wise leadership of my superiors and with the soldiers