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Under the guidance of Xiao Zhuzi, Fei Bao and Xi Xi finally perked up. The three of them gathered around a flat rock by the riverbank and began discussing ways to cross the dark river.
Xi Xi gently tapped the rock with her antennae, pondering aloud, “Maybe we can look along the riverbank to see if there’s a narrower spot we can walk across directly.”
“Good idea, Xi Xi,” Xiao Zhuzi nodded. Then he continued, “But what if we can’t find one? Or what if we reach a dead end halfway? We need a backup plan. Perhaps… we could make a simple raft…”
Fei Bao shook his head. “I’m afraid that won’t work. I just scouted ahead and found some hidden rocks and rapids in the river. A makeshift raft is likely to fall apart along the way. And look over there—” he pointed to a distant Little Waterfall, “the current at that Little Waterfall is extremely strong; an ordinary raft wouldn’t stand a chance.”
Xiao Zhuzi rubbed his chin thoughtfully and after a moment said, “Besides reinforcing the raft as much as possible, we could use tools. For instance, we should gather several sturdy sticks to help steer the raft in the water or brace it against the rocks in case of an emergency. Also… we can utilize our old friend—Grass Rope. When we get to that Little Waterfall, we can tie the Grass Rope around Fei Bao to help stabilize the raft.” At this point, Xiao Zhuzi suddenly flashed a mischievous smile at Fei Bao, “And let’s not forget that we have you as our aerial navigation system!”
“Oh! Right! That’s my specialty!” Fei Bao exclaimed, slapping his forehead. “I can fly ahead to observe changes in the river and help you find the safest route!”
“Then it’s settled!” Xiao Zhuzi stood up energetically. “We’ll work together; as long as the three of us unite our efforts, there’s no river we can’t cross!”
“Exactly! I’ll head back to the surface to gather materials; it’s easier to find things in the dense forest,” Xi Xi responded excitedly. “Xiao Zhuzi, besides sturdy branches, what other materials do we need?”
“Hmm… I’ll go with you; there’s quite a bit to prepare. We need long, straight branches for the raft’s body and some leaves to lay on top for added buoyancy and comfort. Additionally, we need several long, sturdy sticks for paddles. Also, our Grass Rope isn’t enough; we need to save it for emergencies, so let’s find some strong vines to make the raft—longer and sturdier is better.”
“What about me? What should I prepare?” Fei Bao asked eagerly.
“You can search around in the cave for something suitable to tie onto the sticks for paddles—preferably something wide and flat that’s also quite sturdy.”
“Got it! Leave it to me!” Fei Bao couldn’t wait to start searching through the cave.
Once they had decided on their plan and division of labor, the three little friends sprang into action. As time passed, a small mountain of various materials quickly piled up by the riverbank. Fei Bao found two flat stone fragments shaped like leaves—thin yet strong—perfect for paddle heads.
Xiao Zhuzi looked at their materials with satisfaction and said, “We have enough materials now. Xi Xi, Fei Bao, let’s start making our super raft!”
The three friends worked together, first laying out the thickest branches side by side and smoothing out any gaps with stones to form the raft's framework. Then Xiao Zhuzi and Xi Xi used vines to tie them together, employing a weaving technique they had used when catching Box-Head Bullfrog to ensure that the raft wouldn’t fall apart.
Next, they carefully laid out the large leaves they had collected on top of the raft. They selected two straight and long branches and tied stone fragments at one end for better paddling and control of the raft. Finally, after everyone’s hard work, a simple yet sturdy raft was completed. They wiped their foreheads of sweat and looked at their creation with satisfaction before high-fiving each other in celebration.
Xiao Zhuzi said with a hint of anticipation and nervousness, “It’s getting late; let’s get ready to set off!”
The three pushed hard together as the raft slowly slid into the water. Xiao Zhuzi and Xi Xi cautiously stepped onto it; the icy river water immediately soaked their feet. Although it swayed slightly, the raft remained stable on the surface.
Fei Bao took off ahead, flying in front to scout the path. Xiao Zhuzi and Xi Xi each held a paddle while adjusting the raft's direction with their oars. From time to time, Xi Xi extended her antennae towards the water's surface to sense the surrounding currents. The raft moved steadily across the dark waters. Numerous stalactites hung down from high above in various shapes; Xiao Zhuzi and Xi Xi had to stay alert to avoid colliding with them. Among these stone pillars and formations, glowing minerals emitted soft light that cast mysterious shadows on the dim river surface.
Suddenly, Fei Bao's voice called from ahead: “Watch out! We’re almost at that Little Waterfall!”
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