ushernet Chapter 16
Chapter 16
C16 – The Scarlet Macaw
“It’s not just any spirit animal with a hint of dragon essence, nor is it a worthless trinket. It’s the real deal, the king of fiend beasts...”
The parrot was rambling on when it abruptly stopped mid-sentence.
It caught sight of a pair of eyes, eyes filled with skepticism and scrutiny.
After a few seconds of hesitation, the parrot ventured, “Uh, you know, I’m actually the shop owner. Would you believe that?”
“Yes, I believe you!”
Zhou Mu nodded earnestly. “I’ve changed my mind. I’m looking to purchase a scarlet macaw. It must stay within one meter of me and be capable of speaking human language.”
The parrot: “???”
Just say it needs to talk within a meter, why not be direct?
The parrot fell silent for a long thirty seconds before turning and belting out a bloodcurdling scream, “Boss, someone’s here to buy your bird!”
The moment the parrot’s cry rang out, a flurry of footsteps drew near.
At last, the owner appeared!
Standing at a towering two meters, his build was broad and stout, his arms, protruding from his half sleeves, as thick as Zhou Mu’s thighs.
His bushy, black beard was unkempt, his hair greasy and curled.
Despite his disheveled appearance, his eyes were sharp and lively.
“Do you want this bird?”
The owner sized up Zhou Mu, his brow slowly creasing.
“Indeed. Let’s talk price,” Zhou Mu replied, nodding.
The scarlet macaw was an elite spirit animal, excelling in close-quarters combat.
However, the initiative was so recent that the Arctic Banyan rarely circulated outside elite circles. Only those who had distinguished themselves to the military or the Animal Whisperer Union had the privilege of purchase.
This meant that the prospects for the scarlet macaw were effectively locked down. Barring any miracles, it seemed doomed to never ascend beyond the first rank.
“The Arctic Banyan is a treasured spirit herb from the Diamond Realm, and it’s regulated. Without it, this bird will never advance. Are you sure you want to commit a contract slot to it?” The muscular man locked eyes with Zhou Mu, emphasizing each word.
“I’ve chosen it for a reason. Just because it’s beyond your reach doesn’t mean it’s beyond mine,” Zhou Mu replied with a smile, gently stroking the head of the scarlet macaw.
“Boss, someone’s petting your bird,” the macaw complained, turning its head away in a huff.
“Such confidence? You must be from no ordinary family,” the burly man said, ignoring the macaw’s comment and giving Zhou Mu a second, more scrutinizing look. Recognition dawned on him. “You... wouldn’t happen to be a Zhou, would you?”
“I’m Zhou Mu.”
“I thought so!” The man nodded in understanding. “The Zhou family’s scion, no wonder you’re so self-assured. The bird’s yours. And do pass on my regards to your father.”
“Sure.” Zhou Mu acknowledged with a nod, firmly pulling the macaw closer.
There was no need for further inquiry; clearly, the shopkeeper had a history with his father, perhaps a debt of gratitude.
Zhou Mu preferred to leave the past to those who lived it and steered clear of entanglement.
“Boss, you’re giving up your bird...” The macaw looked forlorn, struggling to break free, but Zhou Mu’s grip was unyielding, and all its efforts were in vain.
“His dad’s the wealthiest man in Ambergrasp, and his uncle commands the military there. If you can’t secure an Arctic Banyan, you might as well consider your life over.”
The muscular man dismissed the concern with a wave of his hand, “Just look after it well. This bird’s great, except for its smart mouth.”
“Got it, thanks!”
Zhou Mu nodded his acknowledgment and walked away.
Once he left the Love Lovely Pet Breeding Base, the forlorn expression on the scarlet macaw vanished.
Leaping onto Zhou Mu’s shoulder, the bird cocked its head and inquired, “Big guy, can you actually get your hands on an Arctic Banyan?”
“Why would I need an Arctic Banyan when I’ve got something even better?”
Zhou Mu let out a light laugh and gently shut the car door behind him.