A group of us had traveled around several places in Jiangnan and then returned, preparing to take a boat via the water route, which brought us back to Jiuzi City. This time, though, instead of encountering the bully Chen Qiang, we stumbled upon a different matter.
The plan was to stay in Jiuzi City for a day to gather enough food and medicinal supplies for the journey on water. Since the last visit was so rushed, we decided to explore the city, which seemed far more interesting than lingering in an inn.
In Jiuzi City, indeed, there were many rare and exotic items for sale, many of which had originated from Chengshui Country.
Bai Ruozhu bought a whistle made from a conch for Dengdeng to play with. When blown with force, it produced a sound, and Dengdeng was especially delighted, clutching it tightly and excitedly yelling, "babababa," which sounded a bit like he was calling for "daddy," but he was just beginning to talk, and that particular sound was easier for him to make.