Li Baolong was born in the 1970s, a time of great change and hope, an era seemingly swept by a mysterious revolution, where everything was quietly transforming. He was born into this world, full of wonder and curiosity, and began his unique life journey.
His parents were both from Jianzhou, Sichuan Province, and the resilience and diligence nurtured by that land were deeply ingrained in their bones. His father resolutely threw himself into the Korean War, achieving great merit with extraordinary courage and unwavering will, and returning home in glory. However, the wheels of fate turned again. Due to the needs of his work, he left his familiar hometown and came to a remote and mysterious experimental base in Lop Nur in the western region. Here, he shouldered the heavy responsibility of protecting the exploration work, guarding this desolate land day and night, building an unbreakable defense line with his own body, and protecting those important secrets concerning the future of the country. Every night, when the stars were scattered across the Gobi Desert, his father would quietly gaze into the distance, his heart filled with longing for his family and loyalty to the country, silently dedicating himself to his mission.
From the moment he was born until his tender sixteenth year, Li Baolong lived quietly in a secluded town in the Western Regions. He spent a carefree childhood there, skipping and hopping to the town's nursery and primary and middle schools every morning with his little schoolbag on his back. However, fate seemed to be somewhat unfair to this child; he spent very little time with his parents, as if an invisible chasm separated them. But it was precisely this early separation that taught Li Baolong self-reliance and independence at a young age.
Because of their work commitments, his parents had no choice but to have him as their only son. Despite his young age, he possessed boundless resilience and courage. As the years quietly passed, he reached the age of ten, a time of both innocent wonder and boundless energy, and he was already adept at handling household chores such as laundry and cooking. Compared to children his age, his mind seemed to have matured several years ahead of his peers, making him appear exceptionally mature and composed.
Especially during those days of food scarcity, ten-year-old Li Baolong displayed astonishing survival skills. He often went alone to the wide Tarim River, skillfully casting his fishing rod and patiently waiting for a fish to bite. His focused gaze revealed a composure beyond his years, as if he had a special understanding with nature. After catching a fish, he would carefully clean it, then use simple tools to light a fire by the river and personally grill it into a delicious meal. The sense of satisfaction and accomplishment shone brightly on his young face, as if all the beauty in the world had converged there.
In that quiet little town, more than a decade passed quietly. Li Baolong didn't have many friends, but his closest playmate was named Ajun. From kindergarten onwards, they played together and built a deep friendship.
Ah Jun's family situation was rather unique. He had many brothers, and life was quite difficult, often going hungry. In contrast, by following Li Baolong, at least he could be guaranteed a full meal every day and wouldn't be troubled by hunger.
Although Ah Jun is slender, his physical abilities are exceptional. At only ten years old, he is already capable of running a marathon. Every morning, he gets up early and embarks on a run of thirty to forty kilometers. This perseverance and willpower are truly remarkable for a child. Perhaps this is a unique running talent bestowed upon him by heaven, allowing him to find his own joy and value in running.
That morning, just as the sun rose, Ah Jun eagerly ran to find Li Baolong. When Li Baolong saw Ah Jun shivering in his patched clothes, a wave of pity washed over him. He knew that Ah Jun hadn't eaten breakfast and was on an empty stomach.
Li Baolong seemed to sense A-Jun's thoughts. He smiled slightly, slowly took out a cornbread cake and a dried fish from his home, and handed them to A-Jun. A glint of gratitude flashed in A-Jun's eyes. He took the food, his eyes shining with determination, and said, "Eat quickly. After you finish eating, we'll go catch fish together. We must catch as many as possible today. You can also take some home so your family can have a taste."
After saying that, Ah Jun sat down to the side and began to eat the cornbread and dried fish with gusto. His focused expression made it seem as if he were savoring the most delicious food in the world. Li Baolong stood quietly by, watching Ah Jun devour his food, his heart filled with warmth. Ah Jun knew that no matter what difficulties he encountered, as long as Li Baolong was by his side, everything would become less frightening.
A moment later, Ah Jun finally finished his food. He stood up, dusted himself off, and said to Li Baolong, "Let's go catch some fish!" Li Baolong nodded, and the two walked hand in hand toward the river. Along the way, the sunlight shone on them, as if draping them in a golden glow. Their steps were firm and powerful, their hearts filled with anticipation for the future.
In autumn, the banks of the Tarim River seem to be painted with a brilliant golden hue by nature, like a magnificent scroll slowly unfolding before one's eyes. The autumn wind gently blows, making a rustling sound, as if telling the story of the changing seasons, while also bringing a touch of coolness, which evokes a sense of感慨 (gǎnkǎi, a feeling of deep emotion or reflection).
Ah Jun stood on the riverbank, shivering from the cold. His already thin frame appeared even smaller in the autumn wind. Li Baolong, on the other hand, displayed his agility and skill. He deftly picked up his tools and quickly started a roaring fire. This fire was like a beacon in the darkness, bringing warmth and hope.
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