Rebirth in the 50s: The Couple with the Hidden Space novel Chapter 334

Chapter 334: Chapter 258: Encirclement Hunt (Part 2)

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 time.

At the halfway point of the mountain, the teams split into three routes.

As agreed, the teams advanced and retreated together, providing assistance immediately 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 arrangement: 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 game.

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 game 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 some gains on the way back.

Since entering Daqing Mountain, Zhang Guoqing felt inexplicably excited. He looked at the distant mountains in his memory, itching to explore further.

He remembered the last time he found ginseng was not far from here. Back then, he didn’t recognize the herbs. If he remembered 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 something the Old Captain had mentioned several times, 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 smell, 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 times.

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 same direction and eventually regroup.

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 remembered 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 time. 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 some team members getting injured, all the medicine 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 time 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 excitement 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 game, he pulled his big brother away. Only after meeting Zhou Jiao would they be able to verify their true gains.