At the gate to greet them were Zhang Li and the bowlegged-bearded Basang. Basang was deep in conversation with his brother Laba, while Zhang Li beamed and said, "Guess who I ran into back at the unit, Danba? You'll never guess."
Zhuomu Qiangba shook his head. Zhang Li grinned, "Come on out, scout!" Yue Yang stepped forward with his signature sunny smile and gave a sharp military salute. "Yue Yang, member of the Third Criminal Investigation Brigade of the Qinghai Armed Police Corps, reporting for duty!"
Zhuomu Qiangba smiled slightly and extended his hand. After the introductions, Yue Yang said, "Dr. Gu Junren is waiting for you inside. Please, go ahead."
Professor Fang Xin muttered under his breath, "Ah, so it's him."
Zhuomu Qiangba turned to Fang Xin, who explained, "Dr. Gu Junren, academician at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, researcher at the Forbidden City Museum, Ph.D. in ancient artifact studies, a senior advisor to the Chinese National Archaeological Team, consultant for Antarctic expeditions, and honorary president of the Chinese Field Survival Association."
Tang Min stuck out her tongue. "Wow, just hearing his titles makes him sound incredibly prestigious."
Professor Fang added, "However, Dr. Gu is already in his eighties. He's an old friend of one of my mentors, so I doubt he'll personally join us for this expedition."
Yue Yang clarified, "The professor knows Dr. Gu well, huh? He didn't come in person but stays in constant contact with us via video."
Inside the multimedia room of the camp, a white screen showed the image of an elderly man seated on a sofa. Through the video, he greeted everyone warmly. The elderly man began, "Fang Xin, you're here too? I heard your research on canine species has reached world-leading levels. I remember back in the day, you were always fascinated by biology. I tried to get you into archaeology, but you wouldn't budge. And now, at your age, you're looking to go on an adventure? What, thinking of this old bag of bones again?"
Professor Fang gave an awkward laugh. "Dr. Gu, uh, well, I wouldn't say leading exactly—just exchanging ideas with international peers. This expedition is all for academic research, after all. Your expertise in field survival is invaluable. With your guidance, our training is sure to be fruitful."
Dr. Gu sipped his tea and continued, "The items you sent me, I've examined them. Each piece is exceptional. If this expedition succeeds, its findings will surely shock the world. If only I were younger—I'd join this expedition myself! By the way, that tall fellow there, are you the organizer and sponsor of this endeavor? Apologies, but I've stripped you of command! Haha."
Dr. Gu then turned serious. "This expedition has the nation's full attention. I've been specially assigned as the deputy chief commander for this operation and the head of your training. The equipment and supplies you'll need will all be provided by the state. However, you must strictly adhere to orders. Anyone found breaking the rules risks immediate dismissal from the team. Now, let me ask you a few questions."
Picking up a document, Dr. Gu read, "Zhuomu Qiangba, Tibetan. Very good. Tell me, are you aware of the dangers of this journey?"
"I am," Zhuomu Qiangba replied.
"Then why are you still determined to go?"
"For my faith," Zhuomu Qiangba said.
Dr. Gu stared at him through the video feed for a long moment. "Very well. With faith, life is less likely to feel empty and lonely. Fang Xin, I won't ask you. You've already sacrificed a few fingers for your canine research and survived near-death experiences seven or eight times. One more won't faze you. Hmm? And this young lady—she's joining the expedition too?"
Tang Min nodded. Dr. Gu asked, "Then why are you participating in this mission?"
"For love!" Tang Min replied without hesitation.
Dr. Gu chuckled warmly, "Haha, see? This young lady's reason is far more compelling than both of yours combined. Good spirit, young girl! You've got my moral support. But this expedition is beyond any previous exploratory missions. The risks you'll face are even greater than those of the Antarctic research teams. Based on your physical fitness and conditions, you're not suited for this expedition."
Tang Min pouted and complained, "Grandpa, you're biased against women."
That single "Grandpa" made Dr. Gu's face light up with delight. He laughed, "Haha, I may be old, but my thoughts are modern! I'm not stuck with those outdated feudal ideas. I'm not lying to you; this mission really isn't suitable for you. We need young, strong men. Exploration is hard physical work, and lacking the strength can be dangerous."
Tang Min protested, "I—I'm strong!" Suddenly, she blurted a lie, "I used to go on adventures with my brother all the time."
Zhuomu Qiangba, knowing full well that Tang Min's brother was an avid adventurer while she had been diligently studying in school, didn't expose her. He thought to himself, "If it really doesn't work out, I'll have to convince her to let it go another day."
Dr. Gu raised an eyebrow and asked, "With your brother? Who's your brother?"
Tang Min replied, "My brother is Tang Tao. He's been on lots of adventures."
"Tang Tao!" Dr. Gu's expression grew thoughtful. "The one often featured in magazines? Hmm, that kid. I met him five years ago. We exchanged ideas about wilderness survival and exploration techniques. At the time, I predicted that among Chinese adventurers, he wasn't first, but he'd rank second. Did you really go exploring with your brother?"
Tang Min blinked her big eyes innocently and nodded vigorously. Dr. Gu murmured, "Your brother is one of the rare geniuses among adventurers. But he's a bit too selfish, always wanting to keep everything for himself. Some things, however, are extremely dangerous. I just hope he doesn't run into trouble during one of his explorations. Since you say you've explored with your brother, stay and train for a couple of days. We'll see how it goes."
Tang Min covertly shot Zhuomu Qiangba a look, silently thanking her luck that Dr. Gu didn't know she'd never joined her brother on any adventures—and that her brother was currently hospitalized in the U.S.
Dr. Gu continued, "Since my health isn't what it used to be, I won't be personally overseeing your wilderness survival training this time. I've entrusted it to one of my students. She served as an instructor in the Tibet Military District, is familiar with the environment, and has her own unique training methods. She's already on her way to Lhasa and should arrive shortly. I hope you all get along well. As for me, I'll be remotely supervising from Hainan. Haha."
Zhuomu Qiangba asked, "Who will be the chief commander for this expedition?"
Dr. Gu smiled. "Ah, it's a government official. He's busy with administrative duties and currently attending meetings in Beijing. But he promised to make time to join the training. I can't reveal too much—you'll find out soon enough. For this mission, three people have been selected from the military as the core team. You four will be supporting them—though it seems we have one extra member. Your primary role is to guide the way. Understood? Additionally, two others will be assisting you: one is my long-time assistant, and the other is a representative from Tibet's religious community. After all, this mission is deeply connected to ancient Tibetan teachings. I believe the representative can provide unexpected guidance from a religious perspective."
Professor Fang asked, "Oh, Dr. Gu, is the assistant Eric?"
Dr. Gu nodded. Professor Fang continued, "Then I'm relieved."
Zhuomu Qiangba whispered to Professor Fang, "Do you know him?"
Professor Fang nodded. "Yes, Eric is a passionate Xinjiang native, ten years younger than me. You'll like him. Dr. Gu personally selected and trained him from among many young archaeologists back in the day. He was a star student. Now, he's fully capable of leading major expeditions. I worked with him during my fifth expedition to Tibet ten years ago. His field and exploration experience are truly remarkable."
Dr. Gu seemed pleased. "Oh? Is that so? Well, my other student, you probably don't know her. That girl is my pride and joy. Alright, you've just arrived, and this old man has already bombarded you with questions. You must be tired of me by now. Go rest and familiarize yourselves with the environment and your teammates. You might end up relying on each other for survival."
Professor Fang added, "Dr. Gu, there's a new development…"
Dr. Gu interrupted, "Alright, save the updates for when Eric and Jingnan arrive. You can share everything with them then. As for me, it's time for my medication. They'll keep me updated on your progress. I wish you all the best with your training and hope you complete this expedition successfully."
The image on the screen disappeared. As the three exited the multimedia room, Zhang Li and Yue Yang were waiting outside. They immediately asked, "So, what strange questions did the doctor ask you?"
Zhuomu Qiangba calmly explained a few details. Noticing Basang and his brother Laba standing at a distance, he walked over. Laba was giving Basang brief instructions before heading back home to settle the pilgrims. Zhuomu Qiangba extended his hand and said, "I'm glad you're joining us."
Basang, however, was unmoved. He replied coldly, "I'm not here to help you." Casting a glance at his brother's retreating figure, he added, "You're the ones choosing to court death. I'm just here to guide the way. Consider it repayment for De Ren Laoye's kindness to my brother."
Basang gazed proudly into the distance. Among this group, only he had survived that journey of death. Only he truly understood the terrors of that place. With his signature mustache and aloof demeanor, no one could guess what was going through his mind as he stared into the sky.
Yue Yang glanced at Basang and asked casually, "Who's that guy? Why is he so arrogant?"
Zhang Li replied, "That's Laba's younger brother. Apparently, he's been to the place we're looking for, but he was traumatized and lost part of his memory. We'll need him to guide us this time." Yue Yang frowned slightly.
To ensure their special training for the expedition was undisturbed, the Special Guard Unit designated a separate area within their training base as a restricted zone. This area was secluded, far enough from the main base that only faint sounds of soldiers training could be heard. In the vast mountains, there wasn't another person in sight.
It wasn't until after lunch that the trainers Dr. Gu had mentioned finally arrived—a man and a woman. The man stood about 1.7 meters tall with deep brown curly hair and a kind, square face, though his skin, weathered by harsh climates, looked like coarse sandpaper. Despite appearing older than fifty, his sharp, intelligent eyes resembled those of Professor Fang.
The woman, on the other hand, seemed only in her late twenties or early thirties. She had a classic oval face, sharp, bean-shaped eyebrows, and piercing, icy eyes. Her long hair cascaded loosely over her shoulders, fluttering in the breeze. Wearing a light, wind-resistant coat that accentuated her figure, she exuded an air of commanding grace.
Professor Fang smiled and stepped forward to greet Eric warmly. From a distance, the two exchanged pleasantries. However, both Zhang Li and Yue Yang's eyes widened in astonishment when they saw the woman. Almost simultaneously, they exclaimed, "Iron Goddess!" "Steel Lady!" Then, just as quickly, they turned to each other and asked in shock, "You know her too?" Defeated, they answered in unison, "Of course, she was our instructor."
Tang Min muttered discontentedly, "How can someone so young be a trainer?"
Zhuomu Qiangba, surprised, asked, "She was your instructor?"
Yue Yang, with a hint of trepidation, nodded. "Yes, she taught us investigative techniques."
Zhang Li's voice grew quieter as he added, "She taught us advanced combat skills. She's terrifying."
Yue Yang explained in a hushed tone, "In our circles, she's known as someone cold as ice. With her iron discipline and scorpion-like ruthlessness, her training sessions feel more like punishment."
Zhang Li whispered, "That's nothing. She's been an instructor across various units in the Tibetan Military District. Everyone dreads her. People don't even dare to raise their voices when mentioning her name. Haven't you heard? She's a staunch celibate. She doesn't care about men at all."
Yue Yang asked softly, "Oh? I didn't hear that. How do you know?"
Zhang Li leaned in and whispered even lower, "Her name says it all—Lü Jingnan. Jing as in 'compete,' and Nan as in 'man.' It's like her name declares she's here to challenge men."
The two spoke in increasingly hushed tones, like secret operatives. By the end, even though Zhuomu Qiangba and Tang Min strained to listen, they couldn't catch a word. Frustrated, Tang Min said loudly, "She doesn't look that terrifying! She doesn't even seem that old."
"Shhh!" Zhang Li and Yue Yang sneaked a glance at Lü Jingnan from afar. Zhang Li cautioned, "Don't speak so loudly. Her hearing is incredibly sharp."
Yue Yang remarked, "That woman may look young, but she's actually in her late thirties, almost forty."
Zhuomu Qiangba chuckled, "So, she's a single older woman. Maybe her personality is a bit sharp, and her temper a bit fiery, but she can't be as terrifying as you make her out to be. I only see a faint melancholy on her face—just a flower nearing its withering stage, waiting in vain for someone to pluck it." Tang Min puffed up her cheeks and shot him a sharp glare.
Zhang Li and Yue Yang stared at Zhuomu Qiangba in shock, their expressions plainly saying, "You're doomed. There's no hope for you."Off to the side, Basang smirked coldly.
At that moment, Lü Jingnan approached. Zhuomu Qiangba couldn't see what was so frightening about this woman. Her aloof demeanor lent her a unique aura. If Tang Min resembled an elegant swan, Jingnan was more like a predatory hawk—sharp-eyed and commanding. Before she even reached them, Zhang Li and Yue Yang stepped forward nervously, smiling like timid rabbits before a wolf. "Good day, Instructor." "Hello, Instructor."
Instructor Jingnan glanced at them and asked, "Both of you are from the Tibet Military District?"
Zhang Li nodded, and Yue Yang replied, "I'm from the Qinghai Armed Police Corps."
Jingnan raised an eyebrow. "I see." She turned to Zhuomu Qiangba and said, "Zhuomu Qiangba. Forty-two years old, 1.87 meters tall, weighing 107 kilograms. CEO of the Tian Lion Kennel, worth over a billion yuan?"
Zhuomu Qiangba studied this formidable woman who stood nearly his height, at least 1.78 to 1.80 meters. Her piercing gaze was sharp and unrelenting, but his years in the business world had toughened him. He smiled faintly and said, "That's correct. You have a good memory."
Jingnan made a mental note. It was rare to meet a man who could hold his ground under her scrutiny. She smirked and asked, "What drove you to take on such a dangerous expedition? Looking to throw your life away?"
Zhuomu Qiangba replied, "Do you not know how much faith and pursuit can empower someone to survive? Have you never had an ideal or a goal that you would chase with all your heart?"
Jingnan's expression shifted subtly. She immediately recognized that this man was far more formidable than she had expected. His commanding presence and authoritative tone marked him as a natural leader. Although he was officially a regular team member, it seemed clear that his role in the expedition would need reassessment. Deciding to delve further into Zhuomu Qiangba's dossier later, she backed off. "Very well. I've had a long journey and need to rest. Let me introduce Dr. Eric, Dr. Gu's trusted assistant. It seems we're still waiting for one more team member. Take some time to get acquainted. I'll share our plans later."
Zhuomu Qiangba thought he saw a flicker of a smile on Jingnan's face, though it vanished so quickly he wondered if it had been a hallucination.
While Jingnan retreated to her room, Eric quickly warmed up to the group. Introduced by Professor Fang, the seven of them gathered in a circle to listen to Eric recount his many adventures in scientific expeditions. Eric was an animated storyteller, even breaking into traditional Xinjiang folk songs and dances at times. When Eric suggested a break, Professor Fang encouraged Zhuomu Qiangba to share their experiences in Hoh Xil for further expert advice. Despite some initial hesitation, Zhuomu Qiangba eventually began to recount their journey.
Eric occasionally frowned thoughtfully, gasped in surprise, or offered additional explanations and insights where Zhuomu Qiangba's narrative left gaps. The group listened intently, except for Basang, who seemed distracted and uninterested. To him, their stories paled in comparison to what he had endured. After a while, Jingnan called him inside.
Later in the afternoon, the group was still engrossed in conversation when a new voice, speaking standard Beijing-accented Mandarin, asked, "Excuse me, is this the training site for the expedition team heading to the Pabara Monastery?" Everyone turned to look—and their eyes widened in astonishment at the sight of the newcomer.