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

In the days that followed, the sun shone brightly, like a finely wound-up instrument, operating at high speed and in an orderly manner.

He first reported the situation to the department and the university's graduate student management department, and submitted relevant documents.

The process went exceptionally smoothly. The department head and the graduate school staff had already been notified and wore encouraging and expectant smiles. The procedures were completed quickly, with stamps and signatures being issued—everything was made way for him.

Yang Guangming could sense that his name, within Tsinghua University, seemed to be associated with a special symbol, representing both opportunity and responsibility.

The school took this matter very seriously and quickly opened a green channel for him to complete all the necessary procedures.

This "green channel" is not just empty talk; it signifies the ultimate simplification of cumbersome procedures and the temporary elimination of departmental barriers.

What might have taken days or even weeks to complete was accomplished at an astonishing speed, propelled by an invisible force.

Almost as soon as Yang Guangming submitted the previous document, the next form to fill out was already in his hands. This efficiency made him deeply appreciate the embodiment of the national will in specific matters, and also made him more aware of the weight of his responsibilities.

Just one day later, he received a formal notice to go to the designated location—the Foreign Language Institute in the west of the city—to participate in centralized training for government-sponsored students studying abroad.

The notice required him to report for duty that afternoon; the training would be closed-door and he would not be allowed to leave at will. The news came so quickly that it almost felt unreal to him.

The training was closed-door and required immediate registration. Yang Guangming didn't even have time to pack properly before rushing to the Foreign Languages ​​Institute's registration point with just a few belongings.

His luggage consisted of a worn-out canvas travel bag, stuffed with a few changes of clothes, toiletries, and his most important professional books and notes.

Sitting on the bus heading west of the city, watching the street scenes rushing past the window, Yang Guangming's mind was far from calm. He knew that from the moment he stepped into the Foreign Languages ​​Institute, the trajectory of his life would undergo a decisive change.

The environment of the School of Foreign Languages ​​is quite different from that of Tsinghua University. It lacks the rigor and solemnity of a science and engineering university, but has more of an elegant and open humanistic atmosphere.

European-style houses made of red bricks are scattered among the sparse trees, and statues of literary giants stand beside the winding paths. The air seems to be filled with a more sensual rhythm than formulas and theorems.

He was assigned to a dormitory building specifically for training. The room was shared by two people and was quite nice, clean and tidy, equipped with a desk and wardrobe, and more spacious than the dormitories at Tsinghua University.

His roommate was a young researcher from an institute of the Chinese Academy of Sciences named Zheng Guotao, whose research focus was theoretical physics. He had also obtained this valuable study abroad opportunity through a supplementary quota.

Zheng Guotao is tall and thin, wears black-rimmed glasses, and doesn't talk much, but his eyes reveal the focus unique to scientific researchers.

After a brief exchange of pleasantries, a subtle sense of shared identity as "lucky replacements" quickly brought them closer. Without much time for formalities, both aware of the preciousness of time, they immediately threw themselves into the intense preparations.

This training for the five "transfer" replacements was a high-intensity, highly concentrated blitz.

Since the first batch of confirmed students had already undergone months of systematic training, especially in language, which laid a solid foundation, while Yang Guangming and his group had missed this period, the training content was more targeted and the pace was faster, as if several months of knowledge were being forcibly instilled into their minds.

My days are packed with studying, from early morning until late at night, leaving almost no time to breathe.

At six o'clock in the morning, a sharp whistle would sound in the corridor on time, urging the students to get up, wash up, and start their morning reading.

At 7:00 a.m. sharp, we have breakfast in the cafeteria, and the dining table is often a practice ground for foreign language communication.

The mornings consist of intensive foreign language classes, the afternoons are filled with lectures on various topics such as political ideology, confidentiality discipline, and foreign affairs etiquette, and the evenings are for self-study, group discussions, or simulation exercises, until the lights-out signal at 11 p.m., when the brain can finally get a moment's rest.

This intense pace reminded Yang Guangming of the days when he was preparing for the college entrance examination, but the pressure and goals were completely different back then.

Strengthening foreign language skills is of paramount importance.

Although Yang Guangming was extremely confident in his English, especially his listening and speaking abilities, he dared not relax in the slightest.

The training adopts an immersive teaching method, and the use of Chinese is strictly prohibited in the classroom. All classes are taught by experienced foreign teachers and top domestic English teachers.

The content covers a wide range of topics, from everyday conversations to academic exchanges, from reading professional literature to simulating thesis writing.

Foreign teachers often speak with a native American or British accent, at a fast pace, and with a lot of idioms and slang. This can be quite a challenge for students who are used to written English and standard pronunciation.

In addition, they need to learn some specific slang, campus language and cultural background knowledge of the country they are going to, such as how to order food, how to take public transportation, how to socialize with tutors and classmates in addition to academic discussions, so as to help them adapt to the future learning and living environment as soon as possible.

With his solid foundation and the sense of language he had accumulated from reading original books in the library for a long time, Yang Guangming quickly stood out among the candidates who were applying for the same position. However, he still dared not slack off. Every night after lights out, he would repeatedly recite and practice by the light of the corridor.

Political and ideological education and confidentiality education are another core component.

The relevant department head personally gave the lecture, his expression serious and his tone solemn.

They repeatedly emphasized the responsibilities and missions of students studying abroad, requiring them to always remember that they are intellectuals cultivated by the new China, representing the image of the country, and to firmly uphold their political stance, remain vigilant, consciously resist the erosion of decadent Western ideas, and strictly safeguard state secrets.

The learning materials contain many negative examples, telling how some students studying abroad lost their way under the material temptations or ideological infiltration abroad, eventually going astray or even betraying their motherland, which has a strong warning significance.

These courses made the trainees clearly realize that their trip was not only to learn science and technology, but also to defend their country's position in an invisible war.

Counter-defection education carries a touch of mystery and seriousness.

The experts who gave the lectures spoke in a calm tone, but the content was extremely impactful.

They analyzed in detail the various subversion tactics that foreign intelligence agencies might employ: from offering small favors to build rapport, to using academic exchanges and discussions to conduct ideological infiltration;
From setting up honey traps and emotional snares to exploiting the weaknesses of individuals or families to coerce and threaten them.

Experts taught them how to identify these traps, how to deal with various interrogations and attempts to subvert them, and how to maintain a clear mind and unwavering patriotism in complex environments.

"If you encounter a situation that you cannot judge, or feel that you are being targeted or coerced, the first priority is to ensure your own safety, and then try to contact our embassies and consulates abroad." This statement was repeatedly emphasized.

This part made the trainees realize that this trip was not just a simple academic journey, but also had unseen undercurrents and risks.

Discipline education and foreign affairs etiquette training are equally rigorous, to the point of being almost harsh.

There are clear regulations governing everything from dress code and behavior to how to conduct oneself appropriately when interacting with foreigners.

Even details such as how to eat Western food, how to shake hands, and how to exchange business cards are taught and practiced in specialized courses.

These requirements were both novel and felt like an invisible constraint for the trainees who were used to the relatively simple interpersonal interactions in China.

Studying China's national conditions and policies helps them better introduce China to the outside world and answer any questions they may have about China.

They need to be familiar with the country's latest development achievements, policies, and especially the new changes and developments since the reform and opening up, in order to communicate and explain objectively and accurately, and eliminate misunderstandings and prejudices caused by a lack of understanding from the outside world.

The trainers emphasized that we should be realistic and avoid exaggeration, while also confidently and truthfully promoting the tremendous progress made by the new China.

In addition to being "armed" with spirit and knowledge, there were also preparations in terms of material and living conditions. These specific and small matters also made the trainees feel the care of the country and the solemnity of this dispatch.

The government provides each student studying abroad with a substantial allowance for clothing, which can be used to purchase the necessary attire for studying and living abroad.

In an era when people in China generally wore blue, gray, and green, and suits were not yet common, this amount of money was considered a "huge sum".

One weekend, Yang Guangming and his classmates, carrying letters of introduction from the school, went to a designated overseas Chinese remittance shop, which was usually only open to foreign guests and returned overseas Chinese, to have two well-fitting suits made, one navy blue and one dark gray.

In addition, I bought a thick, warm wool coat, and then I bought matching items such as leather shoes, shirts, and ties.

Standing in front of the dressing mirror, looking at herself in a crisp suit with a completely new look, Yang Guangming suddenly had a feeling of traveling through time.

The amount of foreign currency that can be exchanged is limited; each person can only exchange a small amount of US dollars for emergency settlement when they first arrive in a foreign country.

Although the amount of money is not large, it is extremely valuable given the country's tight foreign exchange reserves, and it reflects the country's deep concern for these students.

When the trainees received that precious foreign exchange certificate, they would carefully keep it, as if a heavy burden was weighing on their shoulders.

All procedures, including passports and visas, are handled by the study abroad management department, so they don't need to worry about them personally.

This "one-stop" service was a luxury under the conditions at the time, allowing them to truly devote themselves to the training without being distracted by tedious administrative tasks.

Yang Guangming only needed to submit photos and fill out forms as required; everything else was handled and coordinated by dedicated personnel. This feeling of being well taken care of by the organization was both reassuring and strengthened his sense of belonging to the group.

During the training, Yang Guangming excelled in all assessments thanks to his solid English skills and calm and composed demeanor.

In particular, his practical foreign language skills are excellent. Whether it is impromptu speeches in class or the presentation of viewpoints in simulated academic discussions, he can express himself clearly and fluently, using accurate words and logical reasoning, which has earned him unanimous praise from foreign teachers and training instructors.

His unassuming nature, his ability to listen attentively, and his ability to get to the heart of the matter at crucial moments have earned him everyone's respect.

At the same time, he also established initial friendships with the other four replacement trainees and some of the students who participated in the training earlier.

The trainees came from different universities and majors, including Zheng Guotao, who studied physics, chemistry, biology, and economics and management, but they all shared a common goal and sense of mission.

During breaks from their intense studies, they would gather together to exchange interesting knowledge about their respective majors in fluent English, or discuss their aspirations and anxieties about the future in Chinese. They encouraged each other, shared their learning experiences, and created a tense yet harmonious atmosphere.

This friendship, forged under special circumstances, is all the more precious, even though it has only just begun.

Time flew by amidst the intense study, each day feeling compressed and so fulfilling that it was almost suffocating. Yet, looking back, we realized that the more than one month of intensive training was already drawing to a close.

The training officially ended on December 10th.

All international students held a brief graduation ceremony in the auditorium of the School of Foreign Languages.

The relevant leaders reiterated the discipline and requirements, and wished everyone success in their studies and a safe return.

The leader's speech was earnest and profound, and the fifty-two trainees below the stage looked solemn. They all understood that leaving here meant the beginning of a brand new journey in life.

Starting from the 11th, a total of 52 students were given a precious vacation of about half a month.

They can use this time to return to their original work unit for a final handover, and then go home for a short reunion with their families.

This was the only chance to say goodbye to loved ones before setting off, and the air began to fill with the sorrow of parting and the excitement of looking forward to the future.

On December 25th, everyone must return to the School of Foreign Languages ​​to report. On the 26th, we will all depart together for the airport to embark on our journey to the United States or Europe. The schedule is precise down to the day, and time is of the essence.

As soon as the training ended, Yang Guangming immediately took action.

He first rushed to the train station, queued for quite a while, and bought a hard sleeper ticket back to Shanghai for the next day—time was tight and the journey was long, he needed to make good use of the more than twenty hours of travel time to rest well, and he wouldn't skimp on this. Then, he returned to his dormitory at Tsinghua University.

More than a month had passed since I last returned home, and a thin layer of dust had settled on my desk. The room still held a familiar scent, but a sense of things being different and people gone was beginning to emerge.

He needs to pack up all his personal belongings left in the dormitory, mainly books, notes and some daily necessities, and bring them back to Shanghai.

This time I leave, and I don't know when I'll be able to return. Perhaps I'll return in a few years after completing my studies, or perhaps other things will have changed.

He meticulously organized every book and every notebook, which were not only his accumulated knowledge but also a testament to his brief time at Tsinghua University.

As he was packing, his roommates Zhao Jianguo and Li Weidong returned one after the other. They were quite surprised to see Yang Guangming, who had been missing for over a month, suddenly packing his luggage.

"Guangming? You've finished your training? Is this... you're moving away?" Zhao Jianguo's voice was loud and clear, filled with concern and a hint of barely perceptible envy.

"Yes, the training just ended, and I'm heading back to Shanghai tomorrow. Once I've taken care of things at home, I'll be leaving again." Yang Guangming paused what he was doing, explaining with a smile. Looking at his two familiar roommates, a feeling of parting welled up inside him.

"I really envy you, Guangming!" Li Weidong pushed up his glasses, his tone full of admiration and longing. "You're going to study abroad on a government scholarship, and to Stanford! That's the holy grail of computer science! You're making such a fast pace! It feels like we're still buried in our books, and you're already heading out into the world!"

“Yes, Guangming, tell us what kind of training you received before going abroad? I heard it was very strict? Was it like military-style management?” Zhao Jianguo also moved closer and asked curiously, while helping Yang Guangming catch a travel bag that was about to fall.

Yang Guangming understands how his classmates feel.

In this era when the country was just opening its doors, being able to step out of the country and see the outside world with one's own eyes, especially to learn advanced science and technology from developed Western countries, was something that countless intellectuals dreamed of.

The classmate's question is not confidential; there's no need to hide it, and you can answer it.

Without the slightest impatience, he put down the clothes in his hands, sat on the edge of the bed, and briefly introduced the general content of the training to the two students in a relaxed tone, including foreign language enhancement, discipline requirements, and foreign affairs etiquette, while also emphasizing the seriousness and sense of responsibility involved.

He described the tension of immersive foreign language teaching, mentioned the shock brought by counter-subversion education, and also talked about the novel experience of buying clothes and exchanging foreign currency.

"In short, this is a rare opportunity, but also a heavy responsibility. Once we go out, we represent more than just ourselves," Yang Guangming concluded, his tone calm yet weighty. "It feels like being placed on a much larger chessboard, with countless eyes watching. Every move must be made with greater caution, and we must always remember the weight of our responsibilities."

“That’s right! Study hard when you go abroad and bring back real skills! Let those foreigners see that Chinese students are just as good as us!” Zhao Jianguo nodded vigorously, as if encouraging Yang Guangming and expressing his own determination.

“Guangming, you’re paving the way. After we graduate, we might have the chance to go out and see the world. We’ll need to learn from you then.” Li Weidong’s eyes sparkled with anticipation for the future. “You guys are the ones who opened the window. We’ll try our best to keep up with you.”

"There will definitely be opportunities. The country's policies will become more and more open, and there will certainly be more opportunities to go abroad for exchange and study in the future. If we lay a solid foundation at school, we can all contribute to the country in the future and will also have the opportunity to go abroad and broaden our horizons."

Yang Guangming encouraged him, believing that this was not just a consolation, but an impending trend.

After chatting for a while longer, Yang Guangming noticed it was getting late and remembered he had important things to do. He quickly packed his luggage, filling two large travel bags to the brim with books; they were quite heavy.

"Jianguo, Weidong, I'm almost done packing up here. I still need to say goodbye to Professor Jin and a few other teachers. We'll continue our chat when I get back." Yang Guangming extended his hands to his two roommates.

"Then you should go quickly."

"Hurry up, don't be late, the teacher will be leaving soon."

Leaving the dormitory building, Yang Guangming carried the two boxes of carefully prepared premium pre-Qingming Longjing tea and strode towards Professor Jinlan's office.

It was already past five in the afternoon. Winter days are short and darkness falls early. The streetlights on campus were already on, their dim yellow glow appearing somewhat cold in the wind, casting a farewell glow over the familiar campus scenery.

Knocking on the office door, Professor Jin's familiar, slightly weary voice came from inside: "Come in."

As Yang Guangming pushed open the door, Professor Jin was engrossed in reading a thick English document. The light from the desk lamp outlined her focused and serious profile, and her gray hair stood out prominently under the lamplight.

"Professor Jin," Yang Guangming called softly.

Professor Jin looked up and saw that it was Yang Guangming. A gentle smile immediately appeared on her face. She put down the documents in her hand and said, "Guangming, is the training over? Please sit down and talk." She pointed to the chair opposite her and sat up a little straighter herself.

Yang Guangming didn't sit down immediately. Instead, he gently placed the box of tea he was holding on a corner of the desk and said sincerely:
“Professor Jin, the training just ended today, and I’m returning to Shanghai tomorrow. I’m here specifically to say goodbye and to thank you again for your strong recommendation. Without your appreciation and your overruling of objections, I wouldn’t have had this opportunity. Here’s a little tea from my hometown, just a small token of my appreciation, please accept it.”

Professor Jin glanced at the bag, his brow furrowing slightly, his tone carrying a hint of an elder scolding a younger person:

"Guangming, what are you doing? I recommended you because I saw your talent and potential. It's for your sake and for the country's sake to cherish talent! It's not because I want anything from you. Take this tea back! I appreciate your kindness."

Yang Guangming had anticipated that Professor Jin would decline, but his expression remained unchanged, and his tone became even more sincere, even carrying a touch of the slightly cunning earnestness characteristic of young people:

"Professor Jin, please don't misunderstand. This isn't anything valuable, just two boxes of pre-Qingming Longjing tea. I... I 'robbed' it from the home of an old leader in Kyoto."

He deliberately used a lighthearted and humorous tone to try to ease the serious atmosphere, "I know you work hard at your desk and like to drink tea to refresh yourself. This tea is for you to soothe your throat; it's just a small token of my appreciation."

"If you don't accept it, I'll feel really bad. I study so hard every day, you can't bear to see me lose sleep, can you?"

Upon hearing that it was about "robbing" the old leader's tea, and seeing Yang Mingming's resolute attitude and clear eyes, Professor Jinlan's expression softened. She smiled helplessly and pointed at him lightly with her finger.
"You... you've even started 'robbing' your old boss? Fine, since it's 'robbed,' I'll have to have a taste. But don't do it again! Don't ever do this again."

"I knew you wouldn't treat me like an outsider!" Yang Guangming breathed a sigh of relief and then sat down properly in the chair.

"Have you bought the return ticket?" Professor Jin asked with concern, his tone returning to its usual gentleness.

"I've bought the tickets for tomorrow morning," Yang Guangming replied.

"Yes, time is tight and the task is heavy." Professor Jin nodded, his expression turning serious as he got down to business. "Regarding your arrangements after you go abroad, I have received some preliminary opinions from above. In your previous assessments, you demonstrated outstanding professional foundation and research potential, which is highly valued by the higher-ups. Therefore, the arrangement for you is to pursue a degree, tentatively set at a master's degree, with a tentative study period of three years."

She paused, observing Yang Guangming's reaction. Seeing that he was listening attentively and showed no unusual expression, she continued:
"Of course, this is just a preliminary plan. If you make good progress in your studies at Stanford and perform well, the higher authorities will also consider supporting you to continue pursuing a doctoral degree."

This depends on your specific circumstances and academic plans. You'll also need to proactively communicate with your advisor, seek opportunities, and promptly report to the embassy/consulate and relevant authorities. What are your thoughts?

Yang Guangming listened attentively, his mind racing with calculations.

Pursuing a master's degree is a safe and expected choice. If he could directly pursue a doctorate, that would be even better, as it would mean he could stay abroad for a longer period of time and give him more time to implement some longer-term "plans".

But he knew that this concerned the country's foreign exchange investment and development strategy, and he couldn't be overly ambitious. Moreover, the country's arrangements for him were very pragmatic; as long as he had the ability and performed well enough, there would be follow-up plans, which already showed that the country valued him.

"Professor Jin, I will obey the organization's arrangements."

Yang Guangming first stated his position in a calm tone: "Whether it's a master's or doctoral degree, I will do my best to learn the most solid and cutting-edge knowledge and technology in the shortest possible time."

Personally, I certainly hope to have more time for in-depth study, especially the opportunity to participate in cutting-edge research projects, but everything will depend on the needs and arrangements of the country. I will report on my learning progress in a timely manner.

This answer demonstrated both ambition and obedience, which pleased Professor Jin greatly, and he showed an approving expression on his face.

"Good, that's the attitude. Once you're out there, focus on your studies without any distractions."

Stanford University is at the forefront of the world in computer science, especially in areas such as integrated circuits and artificial intelligence.

You should seize the opportunity to spend more time in the lab and communicate more with your supervisor. You should not only learn knowledge, but also their research methods, ways of thinking, and the mechanisms by which they translate academic findings into practical applications.

Professor Jin gave earnest advice, his words filled with expectation: "Our country still lags far behind in this area, and urgently needs talents like you to come back and fill the gaps and explore new fields."

“I understand, Professor Jin. I will pay extra attention to these areas of study.” Yang Guangming nodded solemnly.

"And the most important thing."

Professor Jin's gaze became exceptionally deep and solemn, staring intently into Yang Guangming's eyes, as if trying to pierce through his very soul. "The world abroad is wonderful, but also very complex. You will see lifestyles, material conditions, and social structures that are completely different from ours."

There are state-of-the-art laboratories, as well as bizarre and alluring temptations; there is a rigorous academic atmosphere, but also the possibility of pervasive ideological infiltration.

You must always keep a clear head, remember your purpose for going abroad, and remember the earnest expectations of the country and the people.

You must be able to resist temptations, endure loneliness, and stay true to your original aspirations!
After completing your studies, return on time to serve your country! This is your responsibility and your mission!

This not only concerns your personal future, but also the future of our country's technological development!

Professor Jin's words, each one more weighty than the last, struck Yang Guangming's heart.

"Professor Jin, please rest assured!"

Yang Guangming stood up, straightened his back, and said with a resolute tone and clear, firm eyes, "I, Yang Guangming, hereby assure you that no matter where I go or what I see, my heart will always be with my motherland."

My only purpose in going abroad is to learn advanced knowledge and serve my country.

The day I complete my studies will be the day I return to serve my country! I will never do anything to betray my motherland and its people!

His words echoed in the quiet office, carrying an undeniable sincerity and power.

Many students who study abroad try every possible way to immigrate overseas, but none of them are as bright as him!
Professor Jin looked at his young and resolute face, and at the unquestionable sincerity in his eyes, and a look of relief and reassurance appeared in his eyes.

She stood up, walked around the desk, and stood in front of Yang Guangming. She patted him firmly on the shoulder, her voice tinged with emotion:
"Okay! Good boy! I believe you! I've always believed in you! Go, go home and have a good time with your family. You're all alone abroad, so please take good care of yourself and stay safe."

"Thank you, Professor Jin! Please take good care of yourself!" Yang Guangming bowed deeply to Professor Jin Lan, a bow filled with gratitude, respect, and a promise.

After leaving Professor Jin's office, Yang Guangming visited several professors, including Wang Erqian and Tang Zesheng, who had given him guidance and assistance during the re-examination and his daily studies, and bid them farewell one by one.

The professors also offered him much encouragement and placed high hopes on him, their words reflecting both their care for the younger generation and their expectations for the future talents of the nation.

By the time he returned to his dormitory, the streetlights were already on, and night had completely enveloped the campus. The cold wind howled through the bare branches.

In the dormitory, Zhao Jianguo and Li Weidong waited for him to return, and the three of them went to the cafeteria together for their last dinner at Tsinghua University.

The food was still simple, but the atmosphere was different, with a touch more formality.

Back in the dormitory, Yang Guangming checked his luggage one last time to make sure nothing was missing.

He placed two heavy travel bags on the bedside table, washed up, chatted with his classmates for a long time, then lay down and fell into a deep sleep. (End of Chapter)