Last spring, my friends and I went for a hike at Ling Mountain in Xingguo County, Jiangxi Province. The scenery was delightful, with babbling brooks and vibrant landscapes that felt like a living painting. Ling Mountain features typical Danxia landforms, with rugged rocks and crystal-clear streams, full of natural charm.
We followed the winding paths, sunlight filtering through the treetops and casting golden reflections on the water. Suddenly, I spotted something white in the shallow water. Upon closer inspection, I realized it was a few crucian carp. According to a local saying, 'In April, the crucian carp sunbathe,' which meant they were spawning. Just as I was about to get closer to observe, the fish darted away in fright.
Before long, I noticed some movement in a rock crevice. When I looked closely, a pair of bright blue eyes were staring back at me. Then, a golden figure swiftly dashed past me and silently landed on the other side of the stream. My friend exclaimed, 'Wow, a fox!' I immediately jumped over the stream, eager to catch a glimpse of the beautiful fox, but it skillfully ran away, occasionally glancing back at me.
I began to chase the fox, with the clear stream revealing startled fish swimming in all directions. The surroundings were eerily quiet, with only my heavy breathing echoing in the valley. After a while, the fox finally stopped on a hilltop, glanced back at me with a mischievous look, and then sauntered away. I stood there, momentarily lost in thought, as if in a different world.
My friend explained that the fox was trying to protect its young by leading me away. I felt reluctant to disturb it further; it had taken a risk to play with me out of love for its children. This trip to Ling Mountain left a lasting impression on me.
