"You're unwilling to believe me." Tierra let out a soft sigh. "Of course, I understand. But that way, you'll encounter many dangers that can't be explained. Sigh."
"Thank you for your concern, Mr. Lockhart." Honason Hadley seemed to be growing a little impatient. "We are all professional scientists. This expedition team consists of Australia's foremost experts in geology, Astronomy, climatology, and biology. Please trust in our professional abilities."
In Honason Hadley's view, although Tierra's concern for their safety came entirely from good intentions, those intentions made him feel as though his professional competence had been slighted. That was why he spoke unusually firmly.
"Alright, alright. Since you've thought it through, I won't meddle any further. After all, I only need to know that the money I spent is being put to proper use." Tierra nodded with a light laugh.
What followed was an awkward and lengthy silence. Other than receiving messages from the other vehicles over the radio, Honason Hadley avoided making any sound as much as possible.
As for Tierra,
he half-closed his eyes again and began to doze.
The convoy continued onward in silence.
Amid the raging wind and sand, there seemed to be nothing but the crackling chatter of the radios.
After driving for roughly another hour and a half, Honason Hadley gently shook Tierra.
"Mr. Lockhart, Mr. Lockhart," Honason Hadley called softly. "We're here."
"We're here?" Tierra opened his eyes.
"Yes. We've reached the low-lying area on the western side of the George Gill Range. Our vehicles can't go any farther from here. We'll need to climb on foot and enter the inner region of George Crater through the passage on the nearby rock wall. Will you wait for us in the car, or..."
"Of course I'll wait for you in the car." Tierra smiled. "I'm