Chapter 293 - 163: Generational Feud, Shedding the Golden Cicada’s Shell (Part 2)
But although that insect is not a so-called treasure-seeking bug, it does have some other uses.
Among the onlookers, there were quite a few clever people. Before the vendor could finish his deceptive spiel, someone already pointed out his flaw.
Since you say you’re from the southern village, then speak a few words of the local dialect, instead of trying to get chummy with us speaking the local tongue.
The vendor naturally couldn’t speak the dialect, so he simply stiffened his neck and didn’t even pretend: "Shoo, shoo, buy it if you want, and if you don’t, don’t disturb my business! I say this is a treasure-seeking bug, so it is a treasure-seeking bug. If you don’t buy it, it’s because you lack the good fortune to recognize a true gem!"
Once the crowd dispersed, Mu Dian stepped forward and confidently asked in awkward official language, "I was born and raised in the capital, we are fellow countrymen. Can you sell me this insect for less?"
"..."
The vendor, being an experienced swindler, recognized from his accent that Mu Dian was truly a native.
A native, and you’re pretending to be a local? Come on!
"Oh! So we’re actually from the same place! How about this, I’ll level with you. I only ever deceive out-of-towners who don’t know the trade, but I never cheat fellow locals, that’s too unscrupulous! You’re a capital person, so am I. I’ll sell you this treasure bug for ten taels of silver, let’s consider it a friendly gesture, how about it?"
Mu Dian, a sincere person, displayed a satisfied smile and nodded, "You’re good, I like you a lot, then it’s ten taels of silver..."
"Great! This treasure bug is now yours!"
Just as Mu Dian was about to pay from his purse, a man wearing a melon-peel cap and dressed in a maroon-sleeved formal coat approached the stall.