As we walked, the mountain scenery gradually changed. The trees became fewer, and the rocks increased. Flowers and grass slowly disappeared, replaced by moss covering the ground. Continuing upward, even the moss vanished, leaving only bare stones. The four older brothers informed us that this was Xuanchi Mountain, and as we ascended, the air became thinner, making it impossible for ordinary plants to survive. Therefore, around the mountain peak, there were almost no plants at all.
We nodded in response, secretly amazed. After walking for a while longer, we looked up and saw that not far ahead was the mountain peak. We hurriedly urged the four older brothers to quicken their pace. Finally, we reached the summit. Looking around, we found ourselves on a vast expanse.
At the center of the peak was a massive pool. The water was a deep green, crystal clear, shimmering with enchanting light. Above the water, mist swirled, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. The four older brothers told us that this was the most famous Xuanchi of Wujin Kingdom. The water in Xuanchi is where the renowned Mysterious Fish lives.
We nodded in acknowledgment and gazed into the pool, noticing its deep tranquility, with a few small fish occasionally swimming gracefully within. The four older brothers explained that these Mysterious Fish are very intelligent. If someone stands by the edge of the pool, the Mysterious Fish would leap out of the water to play with them. Unfortunately, in recent years, these Mysterious Fish have become increasingly rare and are now difficult to see.
Hearing this made us feel a sense of regret. Considering that Qiu Long could appear at any moment, we discussed with the four older brothers and asked them to descend the mountain first and wait in the village.
The four brothers hesitated upon hearing this. Seeing their reaction, Meng quickly explained that Qiu Long was enormous, exceptionally fierce, and impervious to blades and bullets. Although the four brothers were strong, they were still mortals without sufficient protective gear. If they encountered Qiu Long, it would be difficult for them to escape unscathed.
After hearing this, the four brothers reluctantly agreed. Once they had sent the four brothers off, we approached the edge of Xuanchi. For safety's sake, we moved away from Xuanchi and climbed up a rocky cliff.
From our vantage point, we could clearly see the entire Xuanchi. The clear pool water resembled a piece of jade, embedded atop the mountain. Surrounding the pool were rough, uneven rocks, pockmarked and varying in size. Occasionally, ripples appeared on the surface of the water.
According to Xiao Xiao's speculation, Qiu Long should be lurking at the bottom of the pool. The ripples were caused by its howling from beneath the water. We nodded in agreement.
Three people and one dog began to patrol around Xuanchi, but after several rounds, we still couldn't find a way to confront Qiu Long. Before we knew it, the sun was setting in the west. The evening glow painted Xuanchi red, turning the green water into crimson.
The ripples in the pool had long since calmed down. The water's surface was as smooth as a mirror, appearing tranquil and beautiful. After some discussion, we decided to set up camp by Xuanchi. Although the ripples had settled, the water remained deep. Qiu Long's presence had yet to be revealed. Everything remained uncertain.
Soon, night fell.
The chill at the mountain top was biting.
We hurried to a snow-free area to set up camp and lit a bonfire to ward off the cold.
Under the starlight, the three of us and the dog gathered around the fire, gazing at the countless stars in the night sky, unable to suppress a shiver.
It was indeed quite cold up here at night.
A Meng looked up at the sky, then glanced at me and Xiao Xiao, smiling as he asked, "What do you think? Should we take advantage of the clear moonlight and go for a walk by Xuanchi to check out the situation at night?"
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