Pandas born abroad typically return home after two years. With Barry being just nine months old, he's expected to go back in about a year.
However, given the current situation, returning in a year seems challenging.
---
Due to the overwhelming number of reporters, George delegated questions to a New York Times reporter.
"Sergeant George, can Dabai show us some kung fu?" asked the young, bespectacled reporter, neatly dressed and eager to query what everyone was curious about.
Everyone had seen Panda Barry in images, but never in person.
"This..." George hesitated, feeling it was akin to a circus act.
Just as he was pondering, Charles Finn, donning a chef's uniform, approached with a steaming tray of noodles.
To be fair, cooking for an animal, even a panda, wasn't a prestigious task for a senior chef like Charles.
But times had changed. Panda Barry had become a cultural ambassador to the U.S., making cooking for him an honor.
Spotting Chef Finn, George's eyes lit up, shifting the focus seamlessly.
"I'm sorry, but Dabai hasn't eaten yet. This is Chef Charles Finn, specially invited by the mayor. He has Dabai's meal."
Instantly, microphones were thrust toward Charles.
However, he ignored the reporters, heading straight for Gwen and Barry.
"Dabai, I made you bean paste buns and clear soup noodles today. Eat up!" Charles spoke to Barry in Mandarin, leaving many around puzzled.
Barry emerged from behind Gwen, eyes gleaming at the aromatic food.
Aside from his physical evolution, Barry eagerly awaited Charles's culinary creations.
Having eaten little the day before, his stomach growled.
Sitting on the ground, Barry dove into the meal, savoring the piping hot soup noodles beneath the buns.
He eagerly picked up a bean paste bun, relishing its sweet, non-greasy flavor, a satisfied grin spreading across his face.
Under the astonished eyes of the crowd, he deftly used chopsticks to enjoy the buns.
Like George and others witnessing this for the first time, they were astounded by his dexterity.
"Oh my God, this is amazing!"
"Incredible, his bear paws are as nimble as human hands!"
Now I'm convinced he saved us last night. Keep it up!
---
Watching Barry skillfully use chopsticks, the crowd buzzed with admiration.
Throughout the event, Barry continued eating. Occasionally, he posed for photos, unfazed, focusing on his meal.
Major news outlets reported extensively on Panda Barry, from the zoo escape to the New York rescue and George's account of their encounter.
Some speculated about a connection between Barry and Spider-Man, sparking online debates. However, vague images of the Osborne Tower incident, mainly featuring golden energy waves and George's narrative, lacked solid evidence.
The press conference aimed to pave Barry's way as a police officer and mitigate the impact of Professor Connors' actions, easing pressure on the police and political spheres.
After all, the public often questioned, "We pay so much tax, yet what are you doing?"
During the conference, Barry mainly ate and posed for photos, occasionally nodding or shaking his head, leaving most of the talking to Gwen and George.
---
"...At this meeting, the Mayor of New York City, the House of Representatives, the Animal Protection Organization, the Chinese Embassy in the U.S., and the World Wildlife Fund... unanimously decided that Panda Barry, who received the Medal of Honor and the title of Cultural Ambassador, will serve as an intern officer in the NYPD, under Sheriff George."
"In three months, if he passes the assessment, New York will have a Panda Sheriff."
Three days had passed since the Connors incident. Following the police press conference, Mayor Adams held a meeting at City Hall, initially focused on the Manhattan disaster. It concluded with Barry's contributions and an announcement of his police role.
Involvement from various organizations increased Barry's influence, making him a prominent figure.
---
"Knock, knock..." While playing on his tablet, Barry heard a knock and rushed to the door.
"Huh? Why are you back so early today?" Barry asked George, surprised by his visit. Despite sharing some burden, the police station remained hectic, leaving little time for Barry's welcome.
"I've got something good for you. Come with me to the municipal building," George, haggard from sleepless nights, beamed upon seeing Barry.
"What's going on?" Gwen emerged, curious about the news.
Schools were still closed following recent attacks, but as the principal, she was anything but gloomy, her spirits high.
The panda's involvement in the attack boosted the school's popularity. With Gwen's connections, many students showed interest in enrolling.
Despite Barry's antics, the influence he brought justified demolishing the entire teaching building, thought Principal North.
"It's about your equipment. The mayor wants me to take you for a test," George explained, only knowing the basics.
"I hoped for some delicious food!" Barry sighed, losing some interest.
"This concerns your safety. Let's go; I bet there are many tech companies eager to meet you," George urged, hurrying out.
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