The long net gradually sank into the river water beneath the ice. This was the moment to test the skill of the person responsible for guiding the pole. Imagine, under nearly a meter-thick layer of ice, covered by a thick layer of snow, you couldn't see anything. Who knew which way the pole would go? It all depended on experience; it was a technical job, requiring patience and strength. Shanhu was controlling the pole at the net's lowering point. Who knew this guy had such skill? This job couldn't be done by just having more people; no one else could help!
Shanhu threw off his hat and took off his sheepskin coat. He stood steadily atop the ice eye, his forehead sweating, his big eyes darting around. He used his forked pole to sense the direction of the guide pole's movement. Every now and
