108: Chapter 108 Secret Exploration Mission Launched

The discovery of the unnatural metal structure was like a boulder thrown into a calm lake, stirring up huge waves within the highest decision-making levels of the Dragon Kingdom and the "Guanghan Palace" base.

All information regarding this discovery was immediately elevated to "Civilization-level" top secret, and the scope of those informed was strictly controlled.

At the Earth Command Center, the "Watchers" leading group held an emergency meeting overnight.

Elder Li looked grave as he stared at the regular rectangular prism buried deep beneath the moon on the holographic projection, saying in a deep voice, "The situation is already very clear. This is by no means a natural creation. It may be related to the ancient history of the Solar System, and might even have some connection to the approaching 'reaper'. We must find out what it is!"

"I agree," Elder Chen interjected, his tone serious, "but the operation must be kept absolutely secret; we must not alert the enemy. Once the news leaks, it could trigger global panic or even invite unnecessary international interference."

Inside the "Guanghan Palace" base, Zhao Xiaopeng received a direct order from the Supreme Command Headquarters: immediately assemble a lean, secret exploration team equipped with the most advanced gear to conduct an on-site exploration of the target and obtain physical samples if possible. The operation code name was "Secret Peering".

Once the order was issued, the base immediately began operating efficiently.

The exploration team captain was Sun Hao, who was highly experienced and possessed extremely strong psychological resilience. The team members included geologist Zhou Rui, materials scientist Dr. Liu Xin (temporarily transferred from the "Prometheus" laboratory), as well as two top-tier engineering robots and security experts. Everyone had undergone the strictest political vetting and psychological evaluation.

The equipment they used was also fully upgraded:

"Zhulong" Deep-Hole Drilling and Sampling Platform: Specially built based on the principles of large lunar engineering machinery provided by Lin Mo, it possessed powerful rock penetration capabilities, precise sample collection, and in-situ sealing functions, with noise and vibration controlled to the minimum.

"Diting" Multi-functional Detection Robot: Small and agile, equipped with a high-sensitivity sensor array, it could enter passages ahead of the drilling equipment to conduct environmental monitoring and internal structure scanning.

Enhanced Lunar Operations Suit: Possessed better mobility and protective capabilities, with a built-in independent life support system and emergency escape propulsion device.

Miniaturized Quantum Communication Repeater: Ensured that the exploration team maintained absolutely secure, zero-latency communication with the base and Earth at all times.

All equipment and personnel were coated with the latest radar-absorbent and thermal stealth coatings to minimize the possibility of detection by orbital satellites. The action route was carefully planned by "Fuxi" to avoid all known observation windows of other countries' satellites.

Inside a highly shielded departure chamber at the "Guanghan Palace" base, Zhao Xiaopeng personally saw off the "Secret Peering" team.

"Comrades," Zhao Xiaopeng's gaze swept over every determined face, "I will not repeat the significance of this mission. What you carry on your shoulders may be the key to unlocking a massive cosmic mystery. Remember, safety first, caution above all! If you encounter any situation you cannot judge, retreat immediately! The base and the motherland are your strongest backing!"

"Guarantee completion of the mission!" Sun Hao saluted solemnly on behalf of the team.

The hatch opened, and the reinforced lunar transport vehicle carrying the "Secret Peering" team and special equipment drove out of the base silently like a ghost, merging into the moon's eternal night and gray-white landscape, speeding toward the coordinate point that hid the huge secret.

On the far side of the moon, everything was silent. There was only the faint sound of the transport vehicle's tires crushing the lunar soil, and the slightly rapid breathing of the team members inside the vehicle.

A secret exploration pointing toward the ancient past and concerning the future had officially begun on this silent land. Everyone's heart was suspended, both looking forward to uncovering the mystery and holding a deep sense of awe for the unknown they might face.