Li Tingyan, with his strong physique, carried Nianyang on his back as he briskly ascended the mountain. But no matter how strong he was, climbing steep stairs while carrying someone became increasingly strenuous.
Many tourists around reached halfway and feared the heights and steepness, opting for a shortcut along the mountain path instead.
A few elderly tourists watched with bated breath as Li Tingyan continued to climb higher with someone on his back.
"Young man, you should let your partner walk on her own!"
"Yes, it's too dangerous. One careless step and you might fall."
"Regardless, you've made it this far. You're almost at the top. Take the mountain path, the Buddha won't mind."
Li Tingyan adjusted Nianyang's position and, slightly out of breath, said,
"Thank you for the advice, but I'm not giving up."
