A love flower blossoms in the desert of Xinjiang

Three years ago, Zhao Bo and his wife received their PhD degrees in geology. But in a move that surprised many, the couple gave up promising careers in academia to work in remote areas in China's northwestern region. The husband calls it a tribute to professionalism.

Qiulitag is a no-man's land in Tianshan Mountains of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Locals describe the area as "a place even eagles and Mongolian gazelles cannot reach." But it's the battleground for Zhao Bo and Zheng Xiaoli. 

Their "office" is a land beneath which some 30 million tons of oil are hidden.

"We all know the challenges and pressure. Even though the work is very hard, someone should do it," said Zhao, who is a surveyor at China National Petroleum Corporation.

To stay, or not to stay, was once a question that gripped the couple, until an accident happened last year. 

One of their colleagues was killed in a landslide, which strengthened their resolve to stay.

"There was no time to run away. We all know the work is dangerous and hard. But we shouldn't be defeated. We know sometimes our hard work may not pay off, but we still accept the challenge," said Zhao.

Zheng has always supported her husband.

In the second half of 2016, their daughter was born. Who would help take care of her? Eventually, Zheng's mother came to Xinjiang to help out.

"Xinjiang is relatively desolate. We have neither friends nor relatives here. I thought I should be with him," said Zheng, also a surveyor in the same company. "Besides, a father is important for a child's growth. Our family of three should be together."

The couple usually has different assignments, and weeks could pass without the two seeing each other. Their most recent meeting was on a train.

Zhao said he will follow the oil trail because he is proud of devoting his professionalism to the country.

And wherever Zhao is, Zheng is, because that is love.