"In comparison to the Jiangnan base, it's slightly larger, busier, and hosts more show-offs. There are numerous sects, countless martial artists, sweltering summers, and chilling winters. The climate isn't as pleasant as in Jiangnan base."

Wrapping his scarf tightly, Zhou You thought, "Such weather can hardly be termed as 'pleasant'. As we head north, winter becomes increasingly challenging."

"If you're undecided, we could visit Yangcheng base. It's distinct from here. It might be worth a look," Shao Qi suggested.

"Sounds good. I'm curious about the current state of our nation." Having only seen one base since emerging from the Yunlan mountains, he naturally yearned to explore more.

Returning to Heavy Sword Mansion, Zhou You was immediately tackled into the snow by the young white tiger. The melting snow felt cold against his skin, but he quickly turned the tables, sitting atop the tiger.

The white tiger had grown to two meters in length and one and a half meters in height. Its intimidating size even scared Zhou You.

He inquired with concern to Shao Qi, "How will we transport the tiger out when the time comes?" Initially, the tiger was kitten-sized, but now it might need a truck.

Shao Qi responded, "We'll be taking an armored vehicle, a snowmobile, and a truck for the mutant creatures. The tiger might have to bear the discomfort of the truck for a bit."

Zhou You caressed the tiger's fur, whispering, "If you wish, you can return to the wild. With your capabilities, you'd surely thrive."

The white tiger affectionately nuzzled Zhou You's hand, clearly content and uninterested in returning to the forest.

Chapter 109: White Tiger Mansion.

With Long Gan's discharge, Zhou You took the opportunity to personally inquire if Li Yunxi wanted to stay. He invited him over for a meal at the mansion to also express gratitude for his help.

Shao Qi ordered a lavish spread from a restaurant. Zhou You's decision to skip meals frustrated Shao Qi, who had lately been dining at the military canteen.

Yet, Shao Qi's understanding prevailed; once outside the base, Zhou You would need to cook for himself, so mooching meals here and there shouldn't be an issue.

Today's guests, besides Long Gan, include the uncle-nephew duo of Cheng Yuran and Zhao Jinghao, whom they've become friends with during their time in the Jiangnan Military Region.

"Come, come, I've brought some fine wine today - the kind I usually wouldn't even drink during the New Year," Zhao Jinghao announced, holding two jars of wine as he entered. Everyone had brought something with them, be it food or drink - not necessarily expensive, but thoughtful.

Zhou You wasn't particularly fond of alcohol, but a few sips amongst friends were all in good fun. He set out some glasses, just in time for Zhao Jinghao to unseal his jar, releasing a rich aroma.

"What kind of wine is this? I haven't tasted anything like it before," Zhou You remarked, recalling the familiar flavors of spirits and wines from a decade ago. However, in the last ten years, new varieties of drinks have emerged, like fruit wines and the Baiyu wine Zhao Jinghao brought. Some say it's brewed with a type of jade or a fruit resembling jade, but the exact recipe remains a well-kept secret.

"The longer this wine ages, the better it smells. I bought these jars when they first hit the market and aged them for five years. Even I'm taken aback by its fragrance today," he mused.

Miao Miao, known for her love of wine, couldn't resist pouring everyone a glass. Taking a big sip from her own, she beamed, "This is truly exceptional! Military rules are so strict, and we're wary of drinking when on missions. But here at the Jiangnan base, it's different."

Zhao Jinghao quickly added, "We don't usually drink, only on our off-days. Don't get the wrong impression!"

Cheng Ziang, still nursing his injury, moved his glass to the side. Meeting Zhao Jinghao's concerned glance, he calmly said, "They've seen how our base operates. There's no need for explanations. We may have been lax before, but we'll improve."

Zhao Jinghao, suspecting Cheng might be the next commander, felt a twinge of envy. But considering his recent promotion and his rapport with Cheng, he felt optimistic about the future.

The dinner spread was lavish. Due to continuous snowfall, fresh produce was scarce. Most people relied on dried or pickled vegetables they'd stored earlier, and meat from the freezers. Rumor had it that every base stored enough food and frozen meat for a whole year, just in case.

With the recent break in snowfall, Zhou You ventured outside the base a few times, bringing back several mutant beasts. He also unearthed fresh tubers like potatoes and sweet potatoes from beneath the snow, which were promptly sent to the tavern kitchen.

Many wild animals in the mountains had died from the cold or starvation. Changes in climate seemed to have altered the habits of some creatures, even those that didn't traditionally hibernate. With fewer wild animals around, the worries about a desperate, hungry animal attack on the base seemed unfounded.

Shao Qi raised his glass, proclaiming, "This first toast goes out to everyone here. The success of this mission owes a lot to each of you. Rewards will be given accordingly. Let me know your wishes."

Miao Miao was the first to respond, "Boss, my whip broke. Can I get a new one?"

Shao Qi nodded, "I've got the materials ready. We'll get Master Fan from Yangcheng base to craft it for you."

Miao Miao's eyes sparkled, "Really? Master Fan will make a weapon for me?"

Shao Qi confidently replied, "You're a military officer. Weapons are essential for protecting the nation. You have priority."

Zhuo Hao and Qin Lifei chimed in about their damaged weapons and the need for new ones, not just any ordinary ones.