In the fiery red era of the heavens, refrigerators are refreshed daily.

The four walked out of the police station. It was a little after 2 p.m., the sun was shining brightly, and there weren't many pedestrians on the street.

After walking a few steps, Li Daguo couldn't help but smack his lips: "Today's meal was really good. The braised pork was stewed until tender and flavorful. I haven't had such a satisfying meal in a long time."

Zhao Xiaohu nodded in agreement: "Yes, stewed fish is delicious, savory and flavorful. The chef at the Public Security Bureau's canteen is quite skilled."

Li Wenhua laughed and said, "You two, all you know is how to eat. But to be fair, the standard of hospitality today is indeed quite high. Zhang Juchang is very accommodating."

Yang Guangming knew in his heart that this face-saving gesture wasn't for him, but for Dongfang Pharmaceutical Factory. In this small county, the weight of a large provincial-level factory was still considerable.

Li Daguo chuckled: "Section Chief Li, this business trip was worthwhile. We got things done and had a nice treat at the same time. Please assign us more of these kinds of jobs in the future."

Li Wenhua laughed and scolded, "Dream on. These kinds of formal exchanges between units don't happen often. However, your security department deals with the public security bureau a lot, so maybe there really will be an opportunity in the future."

Li Wenhua glanced at his watch, his smile fading slightly, and said to Yang Guangming and the other two:
"This matter was handled very well today. Zhang Ju is very satisfied, and Captain Lin is grateful. This is a good thing for our factory and for your security department."

Yang Guangming quickly said, "It's all thanks to Section Chief Li that things went so smoothly. Thank you, Section Chief Li."

Li Daguo and Zhao Xiaohu echoed this sentiment.

Li Wenhua waved his hand: "It's my duty. You three go back to the factory. I have some other business to attend to at the county committee. Go back and report to Director Yu that things have been taken care of and that the Public Security Bureau gave us a very grand reception."

“Yes, we understand, Section Chief Li, you’re busy,” Yang Guangming replied.

Watching Section Chief Li walk away, Li Daguo couldn't help but sigh, "I didn't expect such a grand reception for presenting a banner. Deputy Director Zhang personally received us, and we even had a meal in a private room in the cafeteria... This is quite a high-level affair."

Yang Guangming laughed and said, "It's mainly because the factory has a lot of influence. With our union involved, the Public Security Bureau naturally takes it seriously."

Li Daguo nodded: "That makes sense. Guangming, you handled this matter well. It will definitely be more convenient for our hunting team to deal with the Public Security Bureau's security team in the future."

The three of them talked and soon returned to the Oriental Pharmaceutical Factory.

Yang Guangming went directly to the security department and gave Yu Dehai a detailed report on the process of presenting the banner.

Yu Dehai was very satisfied after listening.

“Good, Lao Fang is reliable, and Section Chief Li’s involvement carries weight. I’ve dealt with Zhang Jianjun before; he’s a sensible man. This banner will bring our factory and the Public Security Bureau even closer. Xiao Yang, you’ve thought this through and handled it thoroughly.”

He patted Yang Guangming on the shoulder: "All the formalities are done, and the banner has been presented. Are you at ease now? What are your plans for tomorrow?"

Yang Guangming said, "Director Yu, I'd like to go home for a bit. I'll bring my bedding and luggage, and then I'll return to the factory tomorrow. I can officially start work the day after tomorrow."

Yu Dehai nodded: "Of course. Go back and have a good talk with your family, so your parents can rest assured."

"I understand, thank you, Director Yu," Yang Guangming said gratefully.

After saying goodbye to Director Yu, Yang Guangming walked out of the factory area and looked at the sky.

The sun was already setting in the west, around 3 p.m.

He didn't linger in the county town. After figuring out the direction, he started walking towards the outskirts of the town.

Twenty miles was no longer a burden for him. His steps were light, and his mood was exceptionally relaxed.

With the banner settled, the favor with Lin Guodong was finally put to rest, paving the way for a possible future relationship. With all the household registration procedures completed and my job secured, the biggest weight on my heart was finally lifted.

When we arrived at Xiangyang Village, the sun was just beginning to set, and the sky was tinged with orange-red glow.

Under the old locust tree at the village entrance, several elderly people sat chatting. They greeted Yang Guangming warmly as he returned.

"Guangming is back? Didn't he go to the factory today?" an old man asked.

"You're back, sir. I've taken care of things at the factory. I'm just back to pick up some luggage. I'll officially move in tomorrow," Yang Guangming replied with a smile.

"Wow, you've moved in already? That's fast! Keep up the good work and bring honor to our village!" Another elderly person gave a thumbs up.

Yang Guangming nodded in agreement and continued walking toward his own yard without stopping.

In the courtyard, Feng Guifang, the mother, was hanging out laundry. When she saw her son return, a smile immediately appeared on her face: "Guangming, you're back? Did you get everything sorted out?"

"Everything's taken care of, Mom." Yang Guangming walked into the yard. "The household registration is done, and the banner has been delivered. I'll have to move to the factory dormitory tomorrow."

"Okay, okay." Feng Guifang put down her work and wiped her hands. "I took apart and washed the quilt yesterday, and the cotton was re-fluffed. It was aired all day today and it's fluffy. I can sew it up tonight. I've also packed a few changes of clothes for you, just one bundle."

"Thank you, Mother, for troubling you." Yang Guangming felt a warmth in his heart.

“What’s there to be tired about? I’m happy to see you like this.” Feng Guifang said, her eyes reddening again. She quickly turned her face away. “Go inside and rest. Your dad and your older brother went to the private plot. They’ll be back in a bit.”

As Yang Guangming entered the inner room, he saw a faded blue cloth bundle on the kang (a heated brick bed), bulging with moisture. Next to it was a neatly folded quilt, exuding the scent of sunshine, its cover a nearly new blue and white floral coarse cloth, without a single patch, and meticulously starched.

Not long after, Yang Xiuyuan and Yang Ximing returned carrying hoes. Upon seeing Yang Ximing, they both inquired about the situation with concern.

Yang Guangming briefly explained the situation. Hearing that the household registration procedures were completely completed and a banner had been presented, the leaders of the Public Security Bureau were very happy. Yang Xiuyuan showed a gratified expression, and Yang Ximing slapped his thigh, saying that his younger brother had handled the matter beautifully.

At dinner, the family sat together. The meal was more lavish than usual; Feng Guifang had specially made pancakes with the white flour that Yang Guangming had brought back last time, and also chopped a small dish of pickled vegetables.

The atmosphere was warm, tinged with a touch of melancholy before parting. After all, starting tomorrow, Yang Guangming would be staying in the county town for an extended period, and they wouldn't be able to see each other every day anymore.

"Guangming, once you're at the factory, be on your own. Take good care of yourself." Yang Xiuyuan rarely said more than a few words. "Get along well with your coworkers. When it comes to work, listen to your superiors' instructions, talk less, and do more."

"Dad, I've got it." Yang Guangming replied earnestly.

"If you need anything, just send a message back and we'll figure something out for you." Feng Guifang kept putting food on her son's plate. "The new bedding we made for you is thick, so you won't be cold at night. Have you bought the washbasin, towels, and thermos flask?"

"I've bought everything, Mom, don't worry."

Yang Ximing laughed and said, "Guangming is a government cadre now. He gets a salary and food coupons every month. How could he go hungry or cold? Parents, don't worry. Guangming, come back and visit often when you have time, and tell us about what's going on at the factory."

"Yes, definitely." Yang Guangming nodded.

Yang Yuming and Yang Qiuhong chattered amongst themselves, expressing both their reluctance to part with their second brother and their curiosity and longing for factory life in the city.

That night, Yang Guangming slept soundly.

Beneath me was the familiar earthen bed at home, and the scent of freshly washed bedding filled the air.

The next morning, just as dawn was breaking, the sun was already shining brightly.

Feng Guifang had already prepared breakfast: corn porridge, cornbread, and a small bowl of pickled vegetables. The family ate in silence and quickly.

Yang Guangming changed into a relatively neat set of old clothes, picked up the blue cloth bundle containing his clothes, rolled up the thick quilt, tied it with hemp rope, and slung it over his shoulder.

“Let’s go, Guangming, I’ll take you to the village entrance,” Yang Ximing said.

"No need, brother, the stuff isn't heavy, I can manage by myself. You guys stay home and do your work," Yang Guangming politely declined.

Yang Xiuyuan and Feng Guifang escorted him all the way to the gate of the courtyard. Feng Guifang's eyes reddened again, but she held back her tears, repeatedly reminding him, "Be careful on the road, and take good care of yourself when you get to the factory..."

"Okay, Mom. Dad, you can go back now, I'm leaving." Yang Guangming felt a pang of sadness, but he quickly composed himself, smiled at his parents, nodded to his older brother, younger brother, and younger sister, turned around, shouldered his luggage, and walked with firm steps toward the village entrance.

The morning mist had not yet dissipated when his figure gradually disappeared into the hazy village road.

This departure is no longer a aimless exodus, but a journey toward a clear and hopeful future.

Returning to Pingyang County and entering the gates of Dongfang Pharmaceutical Factory, Yang Guangming's mindset was different.

When the gatekeeper, Xiao Wang, saw him carrying his luggage, he greeted him with a smile: "Comrade Guangming, you've moved in? Are you officially moving in now?"

“Yes, Comrade Wang, we’ll be able to see each other every day from now on,” Yang Guangming replied with a smile.

He carried his luggage and arrived at his dormitory on the fourth floor of Building 4.

He unlocked the door with his key, and the room was just as he had left it yesterday—clean and empty.

He placed the bedding on the bare bed, untied the ropes, and spread it out. The soft cotton quilt, carrying the scent of home, instantly added a touch of warmth to the simple room.

He took out a few changes of clothes from his bundle and temporarily placed them on the empty bed. A newly bought enamel basin and towels were placed on the washbasin stand, and a thermos and a teacup were on the table. Hmm, at least it finally looked a bit like a "home."

After tidying up a bit, Yang Guangming locked the door and went downstairs to the logistics department.

The logistics department was a row of single-story buildings. Inside were several windows, each responsible for distributing different supplies. Yang Guangming found the window responsible for distributing work protective equipment and handed over his work ID and work protective equipment voucher.

Behind the window was a woman in her forties. She looked at his ID and tickets, then looked up and sized him up: "Yang Guangming? New here? From the security department's hunting team?"

"Yes, comrade."

"Okay, just a moment." The woman turned and went into the back warehouse. After a while, she came out carrying several large bags and placed them on the counter.

"These are your protective gear." She began to take inventory. "One summer security uniform, one winter security uniform. There's also a navy blue uniform specifically for the hunting team, suitable for both summer and winter, but made of thicker fabric, perfect for outdoor activities. That's three sets of clothes in total. Please check them."

This person worked very efficiently, and then took out other things: "Two pairs of cotton gloves, two towels, two bars of soap, one work hat, and one winter cotton hat, all of which were uniformly issued by the factory."

Looking at the pile of items on the counter, Yang Guangming nodded to himself. As expected of a large provincial-level factory, the benefits and treatment were indeed different.

Three sets of uniforms, issued annually—this starting point is far superior to many small factories. Among them is a special uniform for the hunting team, demonstrating the factory's emphasis on this special position.

"Thank you, comrade." Yang Guangming thanked him and carefully put the items away. The three sets of clothes, along with other odds and ends, were quite heavy. He carried the pile of things back with some difficulty.

On the way, he encountered two workers in overalls who looked at him with envy as they saw him carrying a large pile of new uniforms.

Yang Guangming didn't pay any attention and went straight back to his dormitory, where he took out his newly received uniform and examined it carefully.

The security department's uniforms are standard navy blue, made of crisp fabric, with red collar tabs. One summer uniform is a single layer, while the winter uniform is significantly thicker.

The hunting team's navy blue uniforms are a slightly darker color, made of thicker and more durable fabric, allowing for easier movement. They also have fewer decorations and look more streamlined.

Yang Guangming tried on the security uniform; it fit well, though it was a little loose.

He stood in front of the small, mottled mirror in the corner of the room. The young man in the mirror was wearing a crisp uniform. Although his face still showed signs of long-term malnutrition and was thin, the composure between his brows and the clarity in his eyes made him look energetic. He was completely different from the rural youth who wore a tattered and patched cotton-padded jacket.

He carefully folded the three sets of uniforms and placed them on the bedside table. The other work safety supplies were also put away properly.

After finishing all that, he checked the time and it was only a little past ten in the morning. He thought for a moment and decided to go to the canteen to exchange his meal tickets. Although the grain coupons hadn't been issued yet, he had some grain coupons from the guesthouse that he could exchange for some meal tickets to have in reserve.

He arrived at the canteen and found the window where he could exchange meal tickets. He took out three jin of grain coupons and the corresponding amount of money, exchanging them for a stack of canteen-issued meal tickets and vegetable tickets. With these, at least eating at the factory wouldn't be a problem.

At noon, he made a point of eating in the cafeteria. A plate of stir-fried cabbage with vinegar and two steamed buns made from mixed flour. Although simple, it was much more substantial than what he usually ate at home.

After finishing his meal, he returned to his dormitory and rested for a while. He didn't have any specific plans for the afternoon, so he decided to familiarize himself with the factory area. Although Xiao Hu had shown him around yesterday, it had been a rushed experience, and many places didn't leave a deep impression.

He focused on checking the location of the training ground, which was an open space on the edge of the factory area with simple target positions and obstacles.

At 7:30 the next morning, Yang Guangming got up on time. After washing up, he changed into his uniform and straightened his collar in front of the mirror. The young man in the mirror had sharp eyes and an upright posture, already showing a capable appearance.

At 7:50, he left his dormitory and headed to the security office building.

The Public Security Section was on the second floor. Yang Guangming went up to the second floor and found the office with the sign "Public Security Section" on it.

The door was open, and inside were several desks. Li Daguo was talking to a man in his forties with a lean face and sharp eyes.

Upon seeing Yang Guangming enter, Li Daguo immediately smiled and said, "Guangming, you're here! Perfect timing. Come, let me introduce you. This is Section Chief Tian from our Public Security Section. Section Chief Tian, ​​this is Comrade Yang Guangming, the newly arrived deputy captain of the hunting team."

Yang Guangming stepped forward, stood at attention, and respectfully greeted, "Section Chief Tian, ​​hello! I am Yang Guangming, here to report for duty!"

The hunting team was under the jurisdiction of the Public Security Section, and from now on, Section Chief Tian would be Yang Guangming's direct superior.

Section Chief Tian's gaze swept over Yang Guangming with scrutiny, but his face showed no sternness. Instead, he nodded slightly: "Comrade Yang Guangming, welcome. Director Yu has already given me instructions. Please have a seat."

Yang Guangming sat down in the chair next to Li Daguo, his back straight and his attitude serious.

Section Chief Tian picked up the teacup on the table, took a sip, and said, "Comrade Yang Guangming, Li Daguo has already reported your situation to me. You are capable and have made contributions. The factory has made an exception and directly appointed you as deputy team leader. This is the organization's trust and expectation in you." "Thank you, Section Chief Tian, ​​thank you for the organization's trust. I will definitely work hard and live up to your expectations," Yang Guangming immediately replied.

"Ah."

Section Chief Tian put down his teacup. "Our Security Section is responsible for the daily security, patrols, handling of emergencies, and some special security tasks in the factory area."

The hunting team is a special squad under our department, established less than a year ago. Its main task is to provide meat for the factory canteen, improving the employees' meals. Of course, when necessary, it also undertakes patrol and security duties around the factory area.

He paused, then continued, "The hunting team currently consists of nine people, including you. Li Daguo is the captain, and you are the vice-captain. All nine of you were handpicked by me from the department; you are physically strong, courageous, and some even have some hunting experience. The factory leaders have high expectations for this team. Although it's just a temporary team, the task is quite demanding."

Yang Guangming listened attentively, nodding occasionally.

Your work arrangements are not fixed.

In principle, we go into the mountains once or twice a week, depending on the weather, game tracks, and the factory's needs.

When not in the mountains, they participate in daily patrols of the factory area or engage in targeted training, especially firearms and physical conditioning.

Section Chief Tian looked at Yang Guangming and said, "You've just joined the Security Department, so you might not be familiar with firearms. Your main task today is to familiarize yourself with the firearms and conduct shooting training. You don't need to participate in the factory patrol today. Li Daguo, wait a moment, take him to the Armed Forces Section to register and get his gun, and then go to the training ground."

“Yes, Section Chief!” Li Daguo replied.

Section Chief Tian then said to Yang Guangming, "Comrade Yang Guangming, you are someone that Director Yu values, and I also hope that you can play a role as soon as possible."

Since its establishment, the hunting team has had some successes, but it still falls short of the factory leadership's expectations. We hope that after you arrive, you can work well with Captain Li to improve the hunting team's work and bring more benefits to the canteen. This is also for the welfare of all factory employees.

"Please rest assured, Section Chief Tian, ​​I will definitely cooperate with Captain Li and do my best to achieve results!" Yang Guangming said firmly.

"Good, that's the attitude we want." Section Chief Tian smiled. "Go on, make the most of your training time. We're going into the mountains tomorrow, so make sure you familiarize yourself with the firearms today."

"Yes!"

Yang Guangming and Li Daguo stood up, saluted Section Chief Tian, ​​and then left the office.

As Li Daguo walked out of the Public Security Section, he visibly breathed a sigh of relief and smiled at Yang Guangming, saying, "Section Chief Tian is actually a good person, just strict and not very talkative. He values ​​you quite a bit, otherwise he wouldn't have said so much."

"I understand, Captain Li." Yang Guangming nodded. "I'll need your guidance in my work from now on."

"Hey, let's not stand on ceremony, just call me Daguo." Li Daguo patted him on the shoulder. "Come on, let's go to the Armed Forces Section."

The Armed Forces Section was also located in the Security Department's office building, occupying several separate rooms. It was mainly responsible for armed training and also managed the firearms and ammunition issued to the Security Department by the factory.

The procedures were not complicated. Li Daguo was obviously a familiar face. He greeted the officer on duty, registered Yang Guangming's information, and then received a gun and a batch of bullets.

The gun was a standard Type 56 semi-automatic rifle, well-maintained, with a cold metallic sheen.

"This Type 56 rifle is for your training and hunting trips in the mountains. It has good performance and high accuracy," Li Daguo explained. "Our hunting team is considered well-equipped. Each person is usually provided with a long gun. The ammunition is also relatively more readily available, so you can fire more rounds during training. Other departments don't have this kind of treatment."

Yang Guangming took the heavy rifle, his fingers tracing its cool barrel, a long-lost sense of familiarity washing over him. In his memories across lifetimes, he had handled guns countless times, whether for self-defense or other reasons.

"The factory leaders really take good care of the hunting team," Yang Guangming said.

“That’s right, they’re counting on us to get the meat,” Li Daguo laughed. “Let’s go to the training ground.”

The training ground is located on the westernmost side of the factory area, near the wall. It is an open space enclosed by a low wall.

On one side were several simple target rings, and on the other side were some low walls, trenches, and other obstacles. At this time, some people were already practicing aiming, but they stopped when they saw Li Daguo and Yang Guangming coming over.

"Come on, everyone, come over here for a moment," Li Daguo called out.

Several people gathered around the training field, making a total of nine, including Li Daguo and Yang Guangming.

Li Daguo introduced, "Brothers, this is our hunting team's new deputy captain, Yang Guangming. You all met him yesterday when we delivered the wild boar. Guangming, these are all our team brothers. You know Wang Tiezhu and Xiaohu, this is Zhang Jianguo, this is Liu Zhiqiang, this is Sun Fugui, and this is Zhou Dahe."

Yang Guangming looked at the group of men, all of whom were young and strong, around twenty to thirty years old, with solid builds and bright eyes—clearly carefully selected. Wang Tiezhu smiled憨厚ly at him, while the others also curiously sized up this newly appointed deputy captain, though their gazes were generally friendly.

"Hello everyone, I'm Yang Guangming. We'll be working in the same team from now on. I'm new here and there are many things I don't understand, so please take care of me. Let's work together to hunt more game, add more food to the canteen, and bring honor to our team!" Yang Guangming said sincerely.

His words were sincere and unpretentious, which eased the tension among the group that had initially felt somewhat distant. Zhang Jianguo, a tall man, readily agreed, saying, "Vice Captain, you're too kind. You managed to bring back four wild boars all by yourself; you're more capable than any of us. I'll have to learn a lot from you in the future."

Others echoed.

Seeing the harmonious atmosphere, Li Daguo was pleased: "Alright, there will be plenty of time to get familiar with it later. Today, Guangming's main task is to familiarize himself with the firearms and conduct shooting training. Tiezhu, you guys continue with your own training. Guangming, come here, let me explain this gun to you first."

Li Daguo picked up the Type 56 semi-automatic rifle and began explaining the basics of the weapon, including its structure, safety, aiming, and firing, to Yang Guangming. Yang Guangming listened attentively, even though he already knew these techniques by heart, but at this moment he had to show the attitude of a "newbie."

After the explanation, Li Daguo asked Yang Guangming to practice with a dry-fire gun to get used to aiming and firing. Yang Guangming did as instructed, and his movements quickly went from being "clumsy" to smooth and standard.

"Not bad, Guangming. You don't seem like someone who's never handled a gun before." Li Daguo observed for a while and was somewhat surprised.

“I participated in militia training in the village, so I have some basic skills,” Yang Guangming explained. This was indeed the original owner's experience, although not many times, but enough to serve as a reasonable foundation for his improvement in marksmanship.

"It's good that you have a basic understanding!" Li Daguo was even happier. "Come on, let's get some live ammunition and fire a few rounds to try it out."

They arrived at the target position. At about fifty meters, the target ring was fairly clear in the sunlight. Li Daguo helped Yang Guangming load the bullet and instructed him, "Don't be nervous, keep your breathing steady, align your three points (bulls, snipers, and snipers), and slowly pull the trigger."

Yang Guangming nodded, lay down on the ground, and aimed his gun. He deliberately didn't immediately display his full skill level; his first shot was slightly off, but still a seven-ring.

"It's alright, but it's a bit off-center. Let's adjust it," Li Daguo said, offering guidance from the side.

Yang Guangming made a slight adjustment, and with his second shot, he got an eight-ring. His third shot, a nine-ring. As he "gradually adapted," his marksmanship became increasingly accurate. After firing five bullets, the target teller ran over and shouted, "Forty-five rings!"

"Wow!" Li Daguo couldn't help but exclaim, "Such rapid progress! Guangming, you have a solid foundation! Five more shots!"

Yang Guangming fired five more shots. This time he was a little more relaxed, the gunshots were crisp, and the bullets hit the bullseye in close succession. The target reporter ran over again, his voice filled with surprise: "Forty-eight rings!"

The other team members on the training field were also drawn over, their expressions showing surprise as they looked at the dense bullet holes on the target. Fifty meters, ten bullets yielding a score of ninety-three rings—this was an outstanding result even within the factory's security department!

"Amazing!" Wang Tiezhu exclaimed, his eyes wide. "Vice Captain, your marksmanship... it's incredibly accurate!"

Zhang Jianguo clicked his tongue in amazement: "He's much better than me. My best score is only 85 rings."

Li Daguo rubbed his hands excitedly: "Guangming, well done! You really made our captain proud! Director Yu was right about you! With your marksmanship, I'll feel much more confident going into the mountains tomorrow!"

Yang Guangming put down his gun and smiled modestly: "The gun is still better. The old-fashioned rifle I used for training in the village wasn't this accurate. I guess I just had a good feel for it today."

"That's the feel for it! That's real skill!" Li Daguo patted him hard on the shoulder. "Our team is having a small meeting this afternoon to arrange tomorrow's trip into the mountains. Keep practicing now, get more familiar with the game. There's plenty of ammunition. Today's main goal is to get you into the swing of things!"

With Li Daguo's encouragement, Yang Guangming no longer held back. He began shooting training, consistently achieving high scores that became increasingly stable. Occasionally, he would score a perfect ring, eliciting gasps from his teammates.

His performance completely won over the team members. Those who had initially harbored some resentment or observation towards his new appointment as vice-captain now held him in genuine admiration. In a hunting team, skill speaks volumes; superior marksmanship is the ultimate criterion.

The morning training session passed quickly. At lunchtime in the canteen, the hunting team members naturally sat at the same table.

Everyone's attitude towards Yang Guangming became noticeably warmer, and they all asked him for shooting tips. Yang Guangming didn't hold back, explaining some easy-to-understand and easy-to-grasp points, such as how to control breathing and how to seize the right moment to fire, which made the others nod in agreement.

In the afternoon, as arranged by Section Chief Tian, ​​Yang Guangming continued his firearms training at the training ground. Li Daguo, on the other hand, went to prepare supplies for tomorrow's trip into the mountains.

Around 4 PM, Li Daguo gathered all members of the hunting team in a small meeting room next to the security section. Including Li Daguo and Yang Guangming, all nine people were present.

A long table was set up in the small conference room, around which nine people sat. Li Daguo sat in the head seat, with Yang Guangming sitting next to him.

"Everyone's here. Let's have a short meeting, mainly to discuss tomorrow's trip into the mountains." Li Daguo cleared his throat, his expression turning serious. "Meet at 6:00 AM sharp tomorrow morning downstairs at the security office. We'll depart on time and walk to the old forest in the western mountains. Everyone get up early; no lateness allowed!"

Everyone nodded, indicating that they understood.

"I've already collected the necessary supplies from the logistics department this afternoon," Li Daguo said, pulling out a list. "Each person will be issued one Type 56 semi-automatic rifle, which will be kept in a unified storage facility and retrieved as needed. Each person will also be issued one hundred rounds of ammunition; please make sure to check them carefully and register them properly."

"Other items needed for going into the mountains: one iron pot, two aluminum basins, nine water bottles, two bundles of rope, two machetes, three backpacks, one first-aid kit, and some matches, salt, and chili powder. These will be carried and kept by Tiezhu and Jianguo."

Wang Tiezhu and Zhang Jianguo agreed.

"We'll be eating lunch in the mountains, so please prepare your own food. The factory won't provide any. After dinner tonight, please prepare your own food or buy some steamed buns from the canteen. Fill your water bottles with boiling water."

Li Daguo continued, "Personal items: hunting team uniform, gloves, and sturdy, durable shoes. That's about it. Any other questions?"

Liu Zhiqiang raised his hand and asked, "Captain, which area are we mainly going to tomorrow? Do we have a target?"

"Let's go and take a look near the ravine where we found traces of wild boar last time."

But hunting is unpredictable; it depends on luck and our eyesight. Everyone, keep your eyes peeled, and safety should be the top priority.

In short, follow orders in all actions. Now that Deputy Captain Guangming has joined us, he is very experienced, so everyone should listen to him.

Everyone looked at Yang Guangming, who nodded: "I will do my best. Let's look after each other, safety first, profit second."

"Yes, safety first!" Li Daguo emphasized. "Weapon collection: after the meeting, everyone come with me to the Armed Forces Section to sign for your guns and ammunition. For other supplies, Tiezhu and Jianguo will go to the warehouse to get them, and then we'll distribute them. Got it?"

"Understood!" everyone answered in unison.

"Alright, meeting adjourned! Go and get ready. See you tomorrow morning at six o'clock!"

After the meeting, everyone got to work.

Yang Guangming followed Li Daguo to the Armed Forces Section again, signed the registration book, and received his Type 56 rifle and one hundred rounds of bright yellow bullets.

The gun felt heavy in his hand, with an oily smell and a cold, hard metallic feel. He carefully checked the gun's condition and confirmed it was in good working order.

Wang Tiezhu and Zhang Jianguo went to the warehouse to collect pots, pans, ropes, and other miscellaneous items. Everyone worked separately and efficiently.

Zhao Xiaohu also went back to the dormitory that night, and the two talked for a long time about the issue of going into the mountains to hunt.

That night, Yang Guangming went to bed earlier than usual.

Lying in bed, I reviewed the possible situations I might encounter tomorrow and considered various contingency plans.

The next morning, while it was still dark, around five o'clock, Yang Guangming and Zhao Xiaohu woke up at about the same time.

The two men quickly got up, washed, and changed into the hunting team's navy blue uniforms, tightening their trousers and cuffs. They checked their rations and water bottles.

The two walked out of the dormitory building. The morning air was crisp and cold, and the factory area was quiet, with only the faint sounds coming from the boiler room in the distance and the dim light of the streetlights.

When I arrived at the security office building, it was ten minutes to six. To my surprise, Li Daguo and Wang Tiezhu were already there, talking in hushed tones.

"Guangming, Xiaohu, you're here! You're here early!" Li Daguo greeted them when he saw them.

"Captain Li, Brother Tiezhu, you guys were here even earlier." Yang Guangming walked over.

"I can't sleep because I have something on my mind," Li Daguo said with a smile. He glanced at Yang Guangming's gear and nodded. "Okay, that'll do."

Soon, the other team members arrived one after another.

Zhang Jianguo, Liu Zhiqiang, Sun Fugui, Zhou Dahe, and another team member named Zheng Weidong all appeared on time, carrying guns. Each of them was dressed in the same hunting team uniform, their expressions a mixture of seriousness and excitement.

Li Daguo counted the number of people again and confirmed that all nine people were present. Wang Tiezhu and Zhang Jianguo also confirmed that all the supplies had been brought.

"Everyone's here. Check your equipment: weapons, ammunition, rations, water," Li Daguo said in a deep voice. "If everything's alright, let's go!"

After a final check, everyone whispered in response, "No problem!"

"Alright, let's go! Destination: West Mountain!" Li Daguo waved his hand and took the lead.

A small team of nine, lined up in a somewhat disorganized but imposing formation, carrying rifles on their backs, walked out of the gates of the Dongfang Pharmaceutical Factory in the hazy morning light, heading resolutely towards the rolling mountains to the west of the county town.

The streets were deserted, save for the echoing sound of their footsteps. The streetlights cast long shadows of them.

Yang Guangming walked in the middle of the column, feeling the weight of the rifle on his shoulder. Gazing at the gradually emerging blue-green mountains ahead, a sense of calm mixed with a subtle anticipation filled his heart. (End of Chapter)