Stepping into the research station, they were instantly enveloped in warm, dry air, a stark contrast to the biting cold outside. The facility was well-equipped, with clean, tidy corridors and walls adorned with various charts displaying polar environmental data. Several staff members were already waiting in the main hall. Upon seeing Alexander, they all came forward to greet him, their eyes filled with reverence.
“Mr. Davidson, Miss Crawford, your rooms are ready,” said the station’s director, a middle-aged man in his fifties named Parham. “They’re on the west side of the second floor. The view is excellent, and it’ll be convenient for us to coordinate our work.”
His skin was weathered and tan, a testament to the years he’d spent in this unforgiving place.
Alexander nodded. “Thank you for your hard work.” He then turned to Danielle. “Go get settled in your room. We’ll have a short meeting in the conference room in half an hour to finalize the testing assignments and review safety protocols.”
“Alright,” Danielle replied, taking the key card.
She watched as Alexander was led away by the staff towards an office. She noticed how slender his frame had become; he seemed to have lost a lot of weight. Yet his back remained perfectly straight. He always maintained such a composed and dignified presence in front of others.
A wave of anxiety washed over her, but she knew this wasn't the time for sentimentality. She turned and headed for the second floor.
The room was small but had all the essentials. The heating system worked perfectly, and through the window, she could see the vast, white expanse of the ice sheet. Danielle quickly unpacked her things, carefully placing the gloves and hat from Niki on the bedside table. After double-checking her personal medication and testing equipment, she grabbed her laptop and went to the conference room.
Parham frowned and said in a deep voice, “Thank you for the warning, but rest assured, our station was built to the highest safety standards. It can absolutely withstand the impact of an extreme cold storm. Besides, our tests specifically require these kinds of extreme conditions, so an evacuation is not necessary.” He had been involved in polar testing for years and had complete faith in the station's protective capabilities.
The two locals tried to say more, but Alexander raised a hand to interrupt them. “We appreciate your kind warning,” he said in fluent English. “We have made the necessary preparations and will be careful.”
Seeing his resolve, the locals could only shake their heads helplessly before turning to leave. After the door closed, the atmosphere in the room remained tense.
Parham continued, “Everyone, there’s no need to worry excessively. The station has backup systems for heating, power, and communications. We also have ample reserves of food and water. As long as we stay inside, we will be safe.”

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