Of course, Su Feng clearly explained the risks of raising Mareep to Mr. Da. The risks weren't trivial but manageable.
When Mareep reach a certain level, they evolve into Flaaffy. Unlike Mareep, Flaaffy's fluffy fur only remains around its neck, while the rest of its body becomes smooth, pink skin. Though Flaaffy's wool requires less frequent shearing, it holds more static electricity and is trickier to process. However, once treated, Flaaffy's wool becomes even softer and finer, perfect for baby clothing.
Flaaffy can further evolve into Ampharos, but only a rare few achieve this. As Su Feng noted, Mareep generally avoid combat, so evolution through battle is uncommon. A few might be exceptions, but such cases would hardly impact the wool industry.
Mr. Da accepted the risks—if anything, they reassured him. The Mareep flock numbered nearly 200, but Mr. Da hesitated.
"How do I… herd them?" He couldn't just whip them like regular sheep.
Su Feng spotted the largest Mareep in the group and approached it directly. "Are you the leader?"
"Meeeh?" The Mareep tilted its head, then nodded.
"We can shear your wool and give you these treats daily." Su Feng offered a Pokéblock.
The Mareep's eyes lit up. It had never tasted anything so delicious.
"We won't restrict your freedom. Just follow us to a new grazing area. Deal?"
"Meeeh!" The Mareep leader agreed enthusiastically. New pastures, free grooming, and snacks? No brainer!
"Done." Su Feng gave Mr. Da a thumbs-up.
"That's it!?" Mr. Da marveled.
"Every group has a leader. Convince them, and the rest follow."
Mr. Da awkwardly extended a hand. "Uh… nice to meet you."
The Mareep leader "shook" his hand with a hoof, leaving Mr. Da both baffled and amused.
[Su the Matchmaker strikes again!]
[Host, hook me up with a Torchic!]
[I'll take any Dragon-type!]
[Keep dreaming. Go touch grass.]
Su Feng chuckled. "Maybe someday I'll take viewers on live adventures."
The chat exploded:
[Take me! My dying roommate's last wish is to catch a Carbink!]
[I'll pay ANYTHING for a spot!]
"If it happens, I'll raffle slots on-stream," Su Feng assured.
As Mr. Da led the Mareep away, Su Feng envisioned his future wealth. With a monopoly on Mareep wool and low production costs, profits were inevitable.
Just then, Xiao Da tugged his sleeve, eyes sparkling. "Can I stay with you?"
Su Feng sighed. "Aren't you going home?"
"Dad didn't say I had to."
The chat rallied:
[Let her stay! We need cuteness!]
[AAA Yak Wholesaler: She knows the grasslands. Let her guide you!]
Mr. Da's profile pic—a grinning selfie—popped up in chat.
Su Feng facepalmed. Even her dad's in on this?
"Fine. But I'm taking you home after the stream."
Xiao Da grinned mischievously. "Yay!"