Time, 9:00 AM.
In front of Half Dome stood a silent crowd, waiting for Ren He, who also quietly stood there, mentally reviewing the route he was about to take.
The more than 600 meters of vertical cliff face was a brand-new challenge for Ren He, even more so because he would be climbing without any protective measures.
He adjusted his breathing, positioning the chalk bag at the most convenient spot on his waist. Ren He was wearing professional-level climbing shoes that snugly encased his feet, and the special rubber soles maximized the friction between his foot or toe and the rock face.
Everything was ready. Ren He looked up at the sheer cliff in front of him, yet another peak he was to conquer in his life, nothing to be afraid of.
He turned back and smiled at the silent crowd, and suddenly raised his right arm, giving a thumbs-up, just as he did every time he was about to face a life-or-death experience!
Begin!
All the onlookers were jolted to attention— it was starting!
