a fire-rat: an imaginary creature of ancient China resembling a white rat, thought to live in the volcanoes of the South China Sea and to have fireproof fur

a rope, a flexible, heavy cord of tightly intertwined hemp or other fiber

下奴: a servant, a maid; oneself (humble) / 家奴: a male servant; a tenant farmer; a peasant; the peasantry / 才: talent, quick-wittedness; one's characteristics or peculiarities

fumble for, feel around for / search, investigate / enjoy the scenery