Chapter 07: Adventures in a Distant Land

"The corner is so dirty, with garbage and waste piling up; isn't it just a place to eat?" said Qiu Di

"Indeed, I think the same way," Guan Qianjiao said

I understand. Qiu Di suddenly realized and said: "The thirteen beauties are all... chickens!"

These three individuals all have strong personalities, and no one can control anyone else. When it came time to determine the team leader, unexpectedly, Qiu Di was eliminated. Guan Qianjiao cast her vote for Qiu Di, but amusingly, all three gentlemen gave their sole vote of friendship to the only lady. As a result, Guan Qianjiao ended up becoming the leader of the four.

Unprincipled, shameless, and untrustworthy. I am referring to you, "Qiu Di" said with a smile

As soon as the person left, a few individuals began to argue among themselves. Bao Xiaosan gritted her teeth and cursed at Geng Baolei, saying, "Look at how you are staring with those two eyes." Geng Baolei retaliated, "You were the one who first said that the name has poetic connotations, alright? You certainly have no moisture, is it dry or wet?" Bao Xiaosan raised her middle finger, saying, "This girl looks just like my sister, don't try to compete with me."

"What about you, Qiu Di, do you also regret it?" Guan Qianjiao asked Qiu Di

"A serving of 'The Bright Spring of Zhu Bajie', and an additional serving of 'You Are My Little Apple.'" Qiu Di smiled as he handed the menu to Bao Xiaosan

Ah... here it comes! A crisp call.

This is a commercial secret; if you order this dish, I will tell you. The waitress, with her alluring demeanor and teasing eyebrows, evokes a sense of distraction and desire.

"Just wait a moment, you'll know as soon as you try it." The waitress, with a flirtatious glance, surveyed the area, leaving the three young men tongue-tied. Guan Qianjiao waved her hand impatiently, saying, "Go on, hurry up and serve the dishes."

"What kind of drinks would you like? We have Wuliangye and Moutai available," the waiter asked

Other things are not expensive, but the Thirteen Hairpins are quite costly... that plate of free-range chicken is particularly expensive; you can inquire about it, a plate won't be less than three or four hundred. Xiao Yanhong shouted, and not seeing anyone come out, she commanded as if issuing orders: "Meat mound, collect the meal money, six hundred and eighty."

It is also incorrect; it is due to this place. This cursed place resembles a scene from CS, where everything is a shade of earthy yellow, covered with a fine layer of dust. Several hotels appear as if they have been washed and left on the ground, looking grayish. It truly resembles a den of bandits. Geng Baolei, hailing from the water towns of Jiangnan, couldn't help but take a deep breath, and before he could voice his disgust, he suddenly began to spit repeatedly.

The smoke-emitting minibus departed, and the groups of travelers left as well. After the vehicles and people had gone, four uninvited guests stubbornly remained in place, like poles stuck in the ground.

It seems to convey to those who come after, through its own hardships, how resilient one must be to survive

"Eat quickly, why think so much? We can eat for a few days, and tomorrow we can go to the cinema for a few days. Later, we can just give them the photos, right? I feel this job is too easy. Not to mention getting paid, even without payment, one can still get by in a place like this," said Bao Xiaosan.

As they spoke and walked briskly, they caught the scent of cooking oil and mutton, prompting them to quicken their pace. However, it was frustrating that several establishments had yet to open, likely because they were off filming a television drama. Only the Sichuan Cuisine Restaurant had its kitchen operational, and a few individuals rushed in without a second thought.

Oh! A buzzing sound responded in kind.

On the contrary, if it were too easy, I might suspect it to be a trap, as there are too many pitfalls in job hunting nowadays. However, at this moment, I actually find the authenticity quite high; for someone just out of school, not to mention doing this kind of work, even staying for a few days would be overwhelming for them said Qiao Di

Traveling west from the capital, along the Jingbao Expressway heading north, the scenery gradually becomes desolate

Bao Xiaosan was in a fit of hysteria, still dazed from just waking up. Geng Baolei poured a bit of water into his palm and wiped his face; his skin was delicate, and his face had already been sunburned to the point of pain, making him regret it halfway through. Qiu Di was looking at this ordinary small town on the outskirts, yet was in high spirits, directly taking out his camera and snapping distant shots. Guan Qianjiao, on the other hand, was looking down, connecting her phone to the internet to find the local map

"So, are you coming again?" Qiu Di asked with a smile

A few people took turns reading the menu. The twice-cooked pork was named "The Bright Spring of Zhu Bajie," the hot pot lamb was called "Pleasant Goat and Big Big Wolf," and the movie "Crazy Stone" was humorously renamed to "Crazy Rabbit Head," which referred to rabbit heads sold for 5 yuan each. The most absurd was the mixed meat and vegetable stew, which was named "Love Apartment." The crowd was puzzled and asked a young waitress named Yan Hong, who responded cheerfully, "Haven't you all seen it? So many men and women living together, their relationships are so chaotic. What else would you call it if not a mixed stew?" It was also priced at 5 yuan each.

Qiu Di and Guan Qianjiao laughed as they walked ahead. Given the level of the third party, at most they could only manage to watch a movie. Qiu Di smiled and asked, "Shall we exchange some insights then"

Looking at Qiu Di, Geng Baolei did not dare to ask him, and turned back to scold Bao Xiaosan, saying: "San'er, I believe you definitely do not have it"

It is often said that when men and women work together, the labor is less burdensome; however, there is another consequence of this pairing, which is: a multitude of troubles

Completed, one would not want to sleep in the wilderness accompanied by wolves in this desolate mountain area

There is nothing to spy on here; it's just a desolate place. Baoxiao San stood up, brushing off the dust from his clothes. He pointed to the flat expanse of land and said, in front of the distant mountain barrier, there is an isolated small town, which, from afar, is hardly visible with any signs of human presence

"Cut it out!" Bao Xiaosan scoffed, then turned to Guan Qianjiao and smiled as she comforted her, saying: "I’m just venting my frustrations"

"Indeed, in this scorching summer, the wind is so strong that it hurts my face; I can't imagine how it would be in winter," said Geng Baolei, somewhat cherishing his own beauty.

This matter unfolded more quickly than imagined. On the first day, it was finalized; on the second day, there was a four-hour training session; by the third day, it appeared here. It feels as if I just woke up from a dream, and there is still a sense of unreality.

Qiu Di looked around, but Geng Baolei sighed, saying: "I am beginning to doubt the subway and waiting hall in the capital; at least there is no personal danger."

The laughter here is quite particular, as it is a smile that does not reveal the teeth. Even in the scorching summer, with the wind and sand in abundance, one still finds oneself biting their tongue.

The plump proprietress behind them also emerged, and this scene seemed to astonish the newcomers. Guan Qianjiao swiftly counted the money, tossed it onto the table, and dragged the unwilling Qiu Di while shouting for Geng Baolei and Bao Xiaosan, who fled in a dejected manner

Geng Baolei, while observing, had some insights and said to the team leader: "According to the Spy Quick Start Guide, the first thing to do is to blend into the third-party environment, and then gain a detailed understanding of the surroundings of the target, including transportation, food, housing, finance, public safety, and other conditions, and to engage as deeply as possible... However, this is not easy; we clearly look like outsiders."

"Have you seen 'The Flowers of War'?" the waitress asked

First, let's address the issue of food... then we can discuss accommodation later. Hmm, the hotel is only preparing boxed meals and does not serve walk-in guests. I refuse to believe that in a place with such a large floating population, there is nothing to eat... hetushu.com.com is nearby, on a major traffic artery. We haven't been down this street before...

Eight rabbit heads. Please remember that, waiter

Ah! How infuriating! Bao Xiaosan was enraged and shouted, "Why don't you go and rob it?" Qiu Di was also taken aback; he had been so focused on being happy that he forgot about this matter. He probably encountered a ruthless shopkeeper. He shouted, "Just be reasonable! Even the capital doesn't have such high prices. Why does it have to be 680?"

Hmm, boiled lamb... alright. Waiter, please take note. It seems that the last guest, Geng Baolei, is waiting to order a signature dish.

Upon hearing this, Guan Qianjiao burst into laughter and collapsed onto the table. Bao Xiaosan scratched his head, seemingly troubled by the difficulties of dealing with his two younger sisters. Qiu Di encouraged everyone, saying: "Comrades, let me clarify one point: our current severe situation revolves around issues of livelihood, physiological needs, and emotional matters, which should all take a backseat. I am not certain whether Haman Business Investigation Company will definitely hire us, but I am quite sure that the task they have assigned us is far from as easy as it seems."

Geng Baolei smiled and stood together with Qiu Di, who was two steps behind. His face was expressive to the extent that Qiu Di twisted his neck and gave him a threatening look, yet he smiled again

What is "San Wu"? asked Bao Xiaosan

Geng Baolei and Guan Qianjiao both believe that he is boasting, but Qiu Di does not think so at all, because to some extent, he shares the same view as Bao Xiaosan: there are only people who die of hunger, not places where people die of hunger; there are always more solutions than difficulties

"Don't ask me academic questions; can't you see that I am uneducated?" Bao Xiaosan shot a glance with irritation. When Guan Qianjiao turned back, he immediately put on a flattering smile and asked with concern, "Jiao, are you hungry?"

Moreover, those young women who dare to navigate the capital alone are all ambitious, even if their lives are as fragile as paper

Of course there is, this is a project with an investment of several hundred million, how could there be nothing to see? Many films and television dramas have already been produced. " Guan Qianjiao said, lifting her backpack and calling everyone to leave.

"No more, please bring more boiled water," Qiu Di said with a smile

Guan Qianjiao smiled, speechless

When Guan Qianjiao wanted to speak, Qiu Di replied without raising his head: "This precisely reflects Haman's cleverness. Each month, they give us a sum of money, which may barely cover your expenses. Whether you want to earn more or seek reimbursement for your expenditures, you must comply with their demands. Once you are on the pirate ship, it is not advantageous for you to try to escape at any time... Therefore, I say this matter cannot be false; the only concern is whether we can manage it."

For instance, this Guo Qianjiao, whose delicate appearance is merely superficial, possesses a very strong-willed character and is surprisingly obstinate. Generally, she may not listen when others speak, yet she has a follower in Bao Xiaosan, who is completely obedient to her. Observing this, Bao Xiaosan, who had given up on escaping, willingly chose to become Guo Qianjiao's shadow.

The 007 series, the Mr. Bean series, the Tom Cruise series," said the proud Xiao San.

Guan Qianjiao smiled; the notes provided by Tang Ying, along with materials collected online by several people, were organized and named the "Spy Quick Training Guide." Without raising her head, she said, "I have read it, and I read it carefully."

Bao Xiaosan still had something in his mouth, chewing as he asked: "What does spicy chicken pieces have to do with any hairpin?"

In the blink of an eye, four people laughed and fell onto the table; such a shameless restaurant is truly rare

Indeed, there is a plump proprietress at the stove. In one sentence: Are you having a meal? In two sentences: Hurry up and wash your face first; only our restaurant has food, while the others have gone to earn performance fees.

Guan Qianjiao never expected that not being able to book a room online would lead to such a situation in reality. She looked at Qiu Di with worry, while Bao Xiaosan urged, "Qiu Di, haven't you traveled to several places on a budget? What should we do in this situation?"

The spicy girl made a valid point, causing Geng Baolei to give a thumbs up. Qiu Di smiled while looking at the menu, but Bao Xiaosan was trying to ingratiate herself by asking the waitress, "Is your name Yan Hong?"

Is this your first day working here? This place is rare for everything, except for outsiders said Qiu Di, to which Guan Qianjiao immediately responded with a smile, Indeed, according to the preliminary data we have gathered, there are over 800 registered extras and more than 200 supporting actors. If it weren't for the fact that no high-quality film or television productions have emerged so far, it would have long been among the top ten film and television bases in the country

"I have seen it; what a famous bad film it is. The investors are all crying over their losses," Qiu Di remarked. Geng Baolei responded, "I watched a segment of it on the subway."

How did you see that?" Bao Xiaosan turned back to look; this area was just blocked by a cluster of residential houses. If one did not know better, they would truly struggle to navigate through these streets that resembled a Bagua formation.

Freaks, absolute anomalies within a peculiar industry, two hotels, cars lined up densely, private vehicles, buses, and even expensive RVs, yet there are hardly any signs of people. Upon entering to inquire about the room rates, I was taken aback; in such a rundown place, the standard room was priced at 300 per day, and there were no discounts to speak of, not to mention that there were no rooms available. The staff's arrogance clearly indicated that they were not worried about occupancy.

"What does it mean to 'click'?" asked Geng Baolei curiously

"If I don't ask, you won't tell me?" Geng Baolei asked in astonishment

The intercity bus traveled continuously for six hours, with a transfer to a tourist minibus midway, and after traveling more than 40 kilometers, arrived at the final stop of the Northwest Film Base: Tunbing Town

"It is not just a semblance; it is indeed... Our beef tripe is from an early rural film, our beef tripe of a hundred years," said Geng Baolei

"If I had known the conditions would be like this, I wouldn't have come. It would have been better to just take the money and leave," said Bao Xiaosan.

"San Er wouldn't have any ulterior motives, would he?" Geng Baolei asked Qiu Di in a low voice

San Er woke up, sat down on the ground, poured the last drop of water from his bottle into his mouth, and then snatched Geng Baolei's phone. Geng Baolei was fiddling with his phone, searching through it, and asked everyone: "Hey, has anyone read the 'Quick Guide to Business Espionage'?"

However, for those accustomed to urban life, the wonders of nature always evoke a deep sense of awe. As one gazes around, the peaks seem to converge, resembling the undulating curves of mighty ridges. Occasionally, when the wind rises, the swirling dust resembles a galloping army. The old Great Wall, beacon towers, and the remnants of walls left by unknown dynasties create a vivid image in many people's minds: stone mountains, barren beaches, and boundless grasslands, with a solitary shepherd on a hill at dusk, and herds of joyful cattle and sheep under the setting sun.

Six hundred and eight, pay up

"If you regret it, just go back. No one is holding you back," Guan Qianjiao said with a smile.

"He even said it himself, how shameless," Qiu Di said with a smile

"That's right!" The waiter smiled cheerfully, his fair face glowing, making Bao Xiaosan's stomach churn. In an unprecedented manner, he imitated Geng Baolei and, in a very literary way, praised, "Oh, this name is so poetic."

It is perhaps not as simple as it seems. When Qiu Di noticed the look of fear on Bao Xiaosan's face, he quickly turned to look behind him, and he was startled as well. A towering man, over 1.9 meters tall, emerged from the kitchen. As he walked, his entire body shook like that of a wild bull. He stood before everyone with his arms crossed, his muscular arms bulging like those of a mule. His eyes were like copper bells, and his face was adorned with a thick beard. He extended a hand as large as a fan and said in a deep, rumbling voice:

"Are you hungry? We'll talk about it later. I've sent the message to your phones," Guan Qianjiao said, looking up. "This is the last stop before reaching the Northwest Film Base. The entire town has fewer than 20,000 people, but the actual number should be higher than the data shows. First, let's decide on a place to stay, and we will start working tomorrow"

Caught in the trap, as soon as I opened my mouth, I was met with sand, provoking a hearty laugh from Qiu Di

Oh, the realization is that the spy is quite impressive, driving nice cars at will, killing bad guys at will, and spending money freely... and women are just casually taken! Oh my, it's still women of different races that make one feel so tempted. Bao Xiaosan clapped her hands, scaring Geng Baolei away, and after sharing her thoughts, she started complaining again, saying: "Look at us, we take the bus and nibble on bread; this level can only be called a cheap spy, a despicable one."

Four people, new to the area, wandered around the town with their eyes wide open in confusion. They quickly realized that this place was peculiar, as it was rare to see anyone during the afternoon. Upon inquiry, an elderly man leading a donkey pointed in the direction of the film studio, explaining that they were filming a television drama. When they asked further, the old man, too busy to chat, revealed that what he was leading was not a donkey, but a prop, as he was also heading off to shoot a scene.

"What is the purpose of those thirteen beauties?" the waiter asked

"That's right." The young lady cast another flirtatious glance.

"Isn't that so? You have all finished eating," the waiter said, pointing at the empty plates

There is no room for despair; even if there were, it is likely that those who can only advance a thousand in funds would not be able to afford it. Moreover, at this moment, they are already feeling famished. Unbeknownst to them, the two attendants have begun to doubt the leader's capabilities as they look at Guan Qianjiao.

Is there really nowhere to go? I regretted it halfway through.

Geng Baolei curled his lips, no longer showcasing his ignorance. Bao Xiaosan seemed a bit more spirited; he put his arm around Geng Baolei and exclaimed, "I spent yesterday at the internet café intensively brushing up on my espionage knowledge, and I have gained quite a bit of insight."

The woman of the world, in order to save the student, seems to be that..." Geng Baolei said, momentarily stunned; this riddle was too suggestive.

However, in the next moment, they could not laugh anymore. When the bill was called, Xiaoyan Hong shouted from the back: "Six hundred and eighty?"

I would like a copy of "The Silence of the Lambs," " Guan Qianjiao said with a smile

Wow, working so hard? Please tell us about it!" asked Geng Baolei curiously

Twice-cooked pork, pulled apple. The waiter noted it down

"Thirteen women, huh?" Guan Qianjiao was puzzled

Of course, the cinema has its own unique characteristics. This is a perfect combination of Sichuan cuisine and film. Everyone who comes here knows about our establishment, the waiter said proudly

The sound was high-pitched and alluring, causing Bao Xiaosan to stretch his neck in curiosity. Guan Qianjiao, fearing he would embarrass himself, pulled him down with all her might. However, Geng Baolei, as if discovering a new continent, pointed at the cutting board on the wall and said to everyone with a smile: "Quick, look, this is the most impressive recipe I have ever seen"

"The Divine Pigeon and the Heroic Couple... Roast Milk https://wwwhetushu.com A pair of pigeons. Hehe, this is so talented." Bao Xiaosan exclaimed in astonishment, "This is a parody of 'The Return of the Condor Heroes.' I have indeed studied this book thoroughly."

He spoke as he led the group, at this moment showcasing the advantage of his extensive experience. He glanced at several desiccated areas and directly bypassed them. The hotel was to the left, turning around the street, the road turned back, and lo, everyone laughed. In front of them now were a row of restaurants: Sichuan-style hotpot, Qin-style dumplings, Huyan steamed buns, and Lao Ge's lamb offal.

"You're right, how could you ask me when you're so clever?" Xiao Yanhong, the waitress, smiled charmingly and walked away, swaying like a willow branch

Sichuan cuisine and film, this combination made everyone laugh uncontrollably. Geng Baolei held back his laughter and asked in the Sichuan dialect he had just learned: "I understand the rest, but what is this 'The Flowers of War' about?"

Upon seeing this, everyone burst into laughter. Qiu Di recited: "To the Chinese toon we shall eventually consume, this seems like a movie."

These two individuals, however, were quite unremarkable, causing Guan Qianjiao to furrow her brows. She remarked, "Although we may not be the ideal youth, we certainly cannot be the invisible personnel in the workplace"

Qiu Di felt a sense of foreboding in his heart. Looking at the handy object on the table, the soup bowl was quite good. He and the third party shared a mutual understanding and were ready to take action. At that moment, Guan Qianjiao sensed something was amiss. She tightly grabbed Qiu Di and whispered, "When out and about, do not cause trouble; a few hundred yuan is not worth it."

Guan Qianjiao and Geng Baolei were both disgusted at once; San Er truly is a naive soul, and this is no exception when it comes to that woman. The expression in his eyes, gleaming with lust, is what truly conveys a sense of moisture.

The dishes have been served, including boiled lamb. Scooping the soup and picking up the meat, it is hard to tell whether it is due to hunger or if the food is genuinely good. Everyone is eating ravenously. Geng Baolei asks Qiong Di, "But currently, it seems that the funds are severely insufficient. The train ticket costs over 100 per person, and with meals on the road, 1,000 yuan won't last us many days. We can't possibly cover the expenses ourselves."

This truly feels like home. While washing my face, the proprietress repeatedly reminded me, "Water is precious here; there is only one basin, so make do with it." Saying this, she poured a ladle of water, just enough to cover the palm of my hand. Thus, the four of us each took turns with a towel, hastily wiping our faces. The proprietress shouted towards the backyard, "Yan Hong, tell your uncle to come out and work; we have guests to attend to."

"Hehe, I only came here for your sake. If it weren't for you, I wouldn't have come to associate with them at all." Bao Xiaosan, with a shameless demeanor, stood next to Guan Qianjiao. This fellow has never understood subtlety; he immediately changed his position, pushing Qiu Di aside, as if afraid that others would get too close to Guan Qianjiao.

Geng Baolei was once again sizing up the leading lady, Guan Qianjiao, as she walked ahead. He noticed that the female tour guide, dressed in travel attire and wearing a small wind hat, indeed had a certain charm. If a horse were to appear at that moment, accompanied by a large sniper rifle, she might just embody the image of a fierce and spirited woman. ... No, why was he reminded of a scene from a game.

Then I will try the crazy rabbit heads, two for each person

This remark earned him a glare from the young lady, who then turned and swayed her slender waist as she returned to the kitchen

"This... the dishes here seem to have all been named after celebrities?" asked Geng Baolei

"Oh? That's great, Qiu Di." Geng Baolei chuckled; at this moment, finding a place to eat was far more exciting than discovering a beautiful woman

As he devoured the food with great enthusiasm, the fatigue from the long journey quickly dissipated. Just as he finished eating and the waiter came to refill his water, Geng Baolei suddenly remembered the dish he had ordered and inquired, "Oh, where is my 'The Flowers of War'?"