With a puff, a snake was gently flicked by a tree branch, curling up as it flew through the air and landed on a distant patch of grass, then flipped over and slid away soundlessly.
Old Niu chuckled from behind, commenting, "Folks around here don't eat snakes, but down south, a snake like that could make a whole dish."
Secretary Qu chimed in humorously, "Are you talking about a dragon and tiger fight? We don't even eat cat meat around here!"
It was nearing noon, and everyone was moving swiftly. Now, the group had left the lakeside and entered the small mountain forest.
Both Boss Niu and Secretary Qu were older, but Boss Niu had also come from harsher times. Although life had improved over the years, he was still in good shape. Secretary Qu also appeared to be no stranger to the field, not showing much sign of fatigue despite the long walk.
