"A lake! There's a lake up ahead."
Someone cried out.
Everyone looked up. Sure enough, a lake had appeared not far ahead.
The lake shimmered, nestled among the trees, carrying the strong scent of lake water and a hint of coolness.
"Ahhh!!"
Everyone shouted as though they had gone mad.
They charged forward, howling.
It was as though reaching that lake would wash away all the exhaustion of their journey.
Everyone loosened their clothes and plunged into the lake.
The lake water was cool as it flowed over their skin, drawing them irresistibly beneath the surface.
The water soaked their clothes, droplets clinging to everyone, their faces looking as though they had been crying.
Hezi really did cry. "That was so fucking hard!!"
"Look, Fuzzball's crying!"
Hezi turned and shouted, "Your mother's crying!"
Everyone doubled over with laughter, and Red Girl laughed so hard that tears came out.
Li Ping'an stood in the water and washed his face.
Old Ox frolicked in the water, leaping about endlessly and having the time of his life.
Li Ping'an slapped his rump.
Old Ox flicked a leg, splashing water all over Li Ping'an.
Li Ping'an lunged at him. "Old Ox!"
Old Ox rolled over, pinning him beneath him.
They plunged into the water with a splash, sending spray flying in every direction like a bouquet of green flowers.
Man and ox began a water fight on the lake.
The night lake was beautiful, its ripples shimmering.
Reflections shattered, and glints of light swayed.
The sun had already set, but its light pierced through beneath the clouds, flowing slowly across the lake.
Red light shone on the lake, making it look as though it had caught fire.
Old Ox vividly described the scene to Li Ping'an.
Li Ping'an smiled. "How beautiful~"
Old Ox said,