Amidst the laughter and joy, there are always a few discordant voices.
Zhao Gang usually doesn't get along with Lu Yu. He and Lu Yu joined the army in the same year, and their strength is evenly matched. Usually in competitions, either you or I come first. This time, Lu Yu was promoted to the deputy regimental level first, and Zhao Gang was very dissatisfied.
Zhao Gang stood on the training ground of the camp, feeling as if there was a raging fire in his heart, burning every inch of his skin. Even the violent storm at this moment could not extinguish the heat in his heart.
On the bulletin board in the distance, Lu Yu's photo with a bright smile was particularly eye-catching, and the big words next to it, "Lu Yu promoted to deputy regimental-level cadre," were like a sharp blade, cutting his self-esteem again and again.
"Why?"
Zhao Gang muttered to himself, his fists clenched unconsciously, his knuckles turning white from the force.
Ever since they joined the army in the same year, he and Lu Yu had been destined to be rivals. Whether it was physical training, tactical drills, or actual combat assessments, the two were always inseparable, vying for the ultimate honor.
Now, Lu Yu was the first to cross that threshold and became the focus of everyone's attention, while he himself was still standing still.
As night fell, Zhao Gang sat alone in the corner of the dormitory, holding tightly in his hand a dumbbell plate that had been polished to a shine, which was a testimony to his countless challenges to his own limits.
As his thoughts raced, he recalled the repeated battles with Lu Yu. Every defeat and victory was like a war without the smoke of gunpowder, engraved in his heart.
"Is it because I didn't work hard enough?"
Zhao Gang shook his head, dismissing his own thoughts. He knew full well that he had never skimped on his sweat and hard work. So, was it luck? Or did Lu Yu have an advantage that he hadn't noticed?
The next morning, when the first ray of sunlight penetrated the mist, Zhao Gang was already dressed and started a new day of training.
He worked harder than ever, striving for perfection in every movement and strength in every breath. But he knew that this alone was not enough, he needed to find the key to open the door to promotion.
Zhao Gang stood in the center of the training ground, sweat slid down his determined face, dripping onto the hot sandy ground, and instantly evaporated without a trace.
His eyes were as sharp as a hawk, closely watching every soldier's movement, ensuring that every punch and every kick was precise and powerful.
Suddenly, his eyes were attracted by a figure in the distance.
That was Lu Yu, walking towards the training ground with steady steps.
The sunlight shone on his shoulders, giving him a layer of golden glow. The calmness and confidence rekindled the fighting spirit in Zhao Gang's heart.
"Lu Yu!"
Zhao Gang shouted loudly, his voice penetrating the noisy training sounds and reaching everyone's ears clearly.
He strode towards Lu Yu with big steps, each step seeming so firm and powerful.
Lu Yu stopped and looked at Zhao Gang with a smile. That smile showed both kindness towards his comrades and anticipation for the upcoming challenges.
"What's wrong, Zhao Gang? You look like you have something to say."
"I want to compete with you."
Zhao Gang spoke frankly, his tone full of challenge.
His eyes were fixed on Lu Yu, as if at that moment, the whole world had stopped, leaving only the duel between the two of them.
Lu Yu was slightly stunned, then a playful smile appeared on the corner of his mouth.
"Oh? What do you want to compete in? Fighting, shooting, or tactical command?"
"all."
Zhao Gang's answer was brief and powerful, each word laced between his teeth, brimming with determination. He knew this was not only a test of his own abilities, but also a reflection of the countless back-and-forth rivalries between the two of them over the years.
Lu Yu nodded, with a hint of admiration in his eyes. He was never afraid of a fair challenge!
"Okay, then. However, Zhao Gang, I hope this competition isn't just about winning or losing, but also about challenging our limits and deepening our comrades' friendship. Regardless of the outcome, we should all gain something from it."
Zhao Gang couldn't help but feel moved when he heard this.
He had never imagined that Lu Yu would view this challenge in this way. Indeed, their competition had never been about defeating each other, but about becoming better versions of themselves, so that they could contribute more to each other, their country, and their people on future battlefields.
"you're right."
Zhao Gang took a deep breath, and it seemed as if a force was surging in his chest.
"Then let us get started. Let our strength speak for us and our sweat bear witness to our deeds."
In the following days, the competition between Zhao Gang and Lu Yu became a unique scene on the training ground.
They not only competed in basic skills such as fighting and shooting, but also engaged in in-depth exchanges on tactical command, teamwork, etc. Every competition was an opportunity for self-transcendence, and every exchange deepened their relationship.
In the end, when all the competitions were over, Zhao Gang and Lu Yu smiled at each other. The tacit understanding and respect between them transcended victory or defeat.
They know that in this war without gunpowder smoke, they are all winners because they have found their true selves and gained the most precious comradeship.
"What do you think of this challenge?"
When the turmoil caused by this challenge finally subsided, Captain Huo asked Lu Yu during his free time. He was afraid that Lu Yu was confused.
After all, Zhao Gang had malicious intentions at the beginning.
Lu Yu smiled and replied, "Huo Tuan, to be honest, I'm very grateful to Zhao Gang for challenging me, because this is equivalent to giving me a chance to fully demonstrate myself."
After all, he is still too young.
Although he had many military achievements, he was not qualified enough to be promoted to deputy regiment commander.
So when he learned that his promotion might be affected, although he was disappointed, he was able to understand and accept it.
However, through this challenge, he was able to demonstrate his abilities in all aspects to all soldiers in the army, making everyone realize that he was fully capable of serving as deputy regimental commander.
"It's great that you think that way!" Huo Tuan said with relief, "Really capable people can always dig out positive energy from negative events."
After hearing what Lu Yu said, Huo Tuan couldn't help but agree. It was Lu Yu who could rationally accept Zhao Gang's challenge and successfully turn hostility into friendship. The two shook hands and made peace.
If Zhao Gang encountered this situation, it is possible that the fight would end in a tit-for-tat situation.
Everyone said that Zhao Gang and Lu Yu were evenly matched, but in fact, Zhao Gang had already lost from the moment he started challenging Lu Yu.
I lost because of my mind and my pattern.
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