So when they saw a high-ranking mage strolling brazenly down the street, they found it quite remarkable.
Uchiha Madara checked the time. It was noon.
"I'll take you to get some proper rest and a meal first, then you can go back," Uchiha Madara said with a smile to the Lightning Bird beside him.
The Lightning Bird was delighted that it could finally escape the demon's control. It let out a joyful cry, as though it had been granted a new life.
"Are you really that happy?" Uchiha Madara said helplessly.
As Uchiha Madara walked ahead, he came across a place that rented and sold magical beasts for transportation, so he sold his Lightning Bird to the owner.
Seeing Uchiha Madara's appearance, the owner assumed he was a high-ranking mage and readily offered the highest price.
"I can tell that you and this Lightning Bird share a very deep bond," the owner said to Uchiha Madara.
"You're right," Uchiha Madara said.
"It has been with me for so long since we first met. We've been through a lot together, so our bond is very deep," Uchiha Madara said.
"Even if I leave now, I'm sure it will be a little reluctant to part with me," Uchiha Madara said, casting the Lightning Bird a wistful glance.
"What I can't stand most in life is parting," the owner said sentimentally. "In that case, I think the two of you should say a proper goodbye."
Uchiha Madara also felt that the Lightning Bird had been with him for so long and suffered so much for his sake. He ought to bid it farewell properly.
So Uchiha Madara slowly walked toward the Lightning Bird, one step at a time.
Seeing Uchiha Madara approach, the Lightning Bird thought he was going to take it away