Teams led by Uncle Zhang and several other experienced hunters were stationed on the north and south sides, ready to assist each other at any ti.
At the halfway point of the mountain, the teams split into three routes.
As agreed, the teams advanced and retreated together, providing assistance imdiately upon hearing the whistle.
Before nightfall, everyone would return to the small valley at the halfway point to spend the night.
Listening to Uncle Zhang’s arrangent: the seasoned hunters held their hunting dogs, whistling as they cautiously led the group further into the mountain.
Beyond the halfway point lay the territory of the big ga.
This was the destination of this hunting trip. Going further would lead into deep mountains, where no one dared to bring so many people.
As they moved deeper, the dense forest and overgrown weeds required the lead person to use a machete to clear a path.
Without physical strength, it’s impossible to hunt in the mountains. Walking through the forest, one must pay attention to the surroundings, carry the ga back and forth after catching it.
Seeing that people at the back couldn’t keep up, an experienced hunter found a nearby creek, started setting traps with several people in the front, hoping to make so gains on the way back.
Since entering Daqing Mountain, Zhang Guoqing felt inexplicably excited. He looked at the distant mountains in his mory, itching to explore further.
He rembered the last ti he found ginseng was not far from here. Back then, he didn’t recognize the herbs. If he rembered correctly, there were lingzhi mushrooms at Skyline.
When the people in the rear caught up, seeing the commotion would hinder success, Zhang Guoqing began to explain the main points of hunting.
Zhang Guoqing was well aware that many in the team had never hunted before. He indeed needed to discuss the key points—this was also sothing the Old Captain had ntioned several tis, entrusting him with the task.
Once everyone settled down, Zhang Guoqing began to demonstrate how to walk quietly in the forest, paying attention to every branch around them and every leaf underfoot, so as not to disturb the animals. Many animals have hearing more sensitive than humans and are also timid. Any disturbance would cause them to run.
Then Zhang Guoqing talked about the importance of wind direction when hunting.
Because many animals have very sensitive sll, detecting non-kindred scents makes them flee instantly. If one encounters an animal that doesn’t run, it’s usually a large beast, which is very dangerous.
Moreover, wind direction is very useful for hunting, such as hunting wild boars. The challenge is greater when hunting with the wind rather than against it, and the distances are closer. Often, when humans hunt, they are upwind, and can see the boar sniffing with its head raised, as wild boars have poor eyesight. If you remain still, it won’t notice you.
After explaining these things, he began to talk about the habits of mountain animals, like wild boars, deer, and bears, at different tis.
For example, if wild boars are in a group, they are called herd boars. This type is timid and easily frightened. After feeding, they appear in the woods at dusk, resting and playing near streams. When startled, they always escape in the sa direction and eventually regroup.
There’s also a solitary 700-800 pound old boar. When encountering such animals, everyone should be extra careful. These are lone boars, very aggressive. They charge at both humans and animals on sight. People say "first pigs, then bears, third tigers"—referring to this kind of boar.
Pay special attention when hunting wild boars, and be careful not to approach imdiately. First, observe the boar’s condition; a dead boar lies flat on the ground with its feet spread. A wounded boar will tuck its feet under its body, and as you approach, it will jump up and fight you.
Seeing everyone’s attention focused, he smiled and continued, explaining the foolish roe deer, known for running and jumping quickly, but will turn back to look. Sotis they’re so startled they freeze, and they’re the most timid, preferring to graze on green grass in gullies and streams in early winter.
Seeing that people were willing to listen, Zhang Guoqing continued to talk about red deer.
Red deer in early winter often co down from the mountains to the river to drink water at sunrise, always taking the sa path. Along the way, observe the footprints underfoot.
Additionally, wolves often roam near human residences and love walking along paths commonly traveled by people. At night, while everyone returns, they frequently follow secretly from behind.
They don’t have the courage to attack; it’s their way of observing and testing. Advise everyone not to be afraid, remain calm, don’t shout, and don’t provoke them. Usually when you look back, they will run away;
Bears typically hibernate in concealed caves starting in winter, occasionally appearing from afar but won’t pose a threat; foxes usually hunt small animals by the river.
Finally, when following the team, it’s best to find obvious landmarks and get a general direction. If you get separated, don’t move if you can’t find your way; wait in place for soone to find you. Everyone in the team should rember who’s around them and notify the group imdiately if soone goes missing.
The experienced hunters laughed heartily after listening, "Xiao Wu said it well. You should rember it first. These are old experiences not often heard. We must rember safety first. Never chase animals. In case of sudden events, don’t shout. Alright, let’s keep moving, and now focus on lightening our steps."
As they were about to genuinely venture into the mountain for hunting, Zhang Guoqing put down his basket, tied a grass rope around his waist, inserted a machete into his belt. He patted the dagger on his calf, slung the basket on his back, and tried reaching back for the bow. In his left hand, he held a tattered bag filled with stones, with small stones held in both hands.
Once prepared, he nervously looked at his big brother waiting behind him. Seeing his brother smile, Zhang Guoqing thought he could protect him if necessary.
Walking alongside the seasoned hunter while guarding his brother inside, Zhang Guoqing entered a state of heightened alertness. Other than the dog barking, he clearly heard any slight disturbance in the distance.
A venomous snake was coiled not far away; he gently tossed a stone forward, hitting it and causing its head to bleed. The seasoned hunter raised a thumb and signaled, allowing Zhang Guoqing to open the way while paying attention to their surroundings.
The experienced hunter led the group ahead into the dense forest, cautiously following animal tracks on the ground.
Zhang Guoqing realized he was looking to find herd boars. If he rembered and heard correctly, not far ahead, there was a group of wild boars foraging there.
Without hinting at them, as long as he ensured the team’s safety, he would have done his job. As for wildlife, Daqing Mountain had plenty. What Zhang Guoqing couldn’t get off his mind was the lingzhi at Skyline. He wondered if there would be an opportunity to go there this ti. Not just for selling money, but also to help Jiao Jiao improve her health.
After staying in Daqing Mountain for two days and a night, Zhang Guoqing noticed his son’s full moon [celebration] was approaching. If he didn’t return, Zhou Jiao would be worried sick. With so team mbers getting injured, all the dicine Zhou Jiao provided had been used up.
Zhang Guoqing went to discuss with Uncle Zhang, deciding to wrap things up. Many people going into the mountain for the first ti were already exhausted, and with the cold weather, it was best for the whole team to head back.
Seeing everyone in a miserable state, Uncle Zhang discussed with the leaders of the other two villages. After seeking everyone’s opinions, it was decided by majority. Finally, they all agreed to return with their spoils.
Leading with excitent and anticipation, Zhang Guoqing took charge of descending the mountain first. Once at the foot of the mountain, he reported to the Old Captain that the whole village had returned safely. Without even bothering about the distribution of the ga, he pulled his big brother away. Only after eting Zhou Jiao would they be able to verify their true gains.
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