Tribesman's New Life

Chapter 20: Heading North

The morning sun cast a warm glow over the village as Aries and his companions gathered at the gate, ready for their journey to the Sky Feather tribe. The hunt leader, taking on the responsibility of guarding the village during their absence, exchanged a nod with Aries. It was a testament to the trust that had been built between them.

"I hope you had enough sleep," the hunt leader said, concern evident in his eyes.

"I sure did, leader," Aries replied with a confident grin. He had always been resourceful when it came to maximizing his time and energy.

The group of tribesmen, including the chief and his six accompanying members, stood ready for the journey ahead. With the addition of Aries and his companions, their squad now numbered ten, the maximum required by the Sky Feather tribe for trade visits. To the tribesmen, numbers held a significant advantage in these trade gatherings. Most tribes possessed similar tools and equipment, making population size a critical factor in determining a tribe's strength. The more members a tribe could muster, the more influential they could be during negotiations and exchanges. That is why they made that rule. The tribes understood the importance of balance and fairness during these exchanges, as it helped maintain harmony between the different groups.

Aries was well-prepared for the possibility of encountering danger during their journey. He knew that despite the skills of the trio accompanying him, being outnumbered and facing a stronger opponent could pose a significant threat. Therefore, he had readied his arsenal of powder bombs and magic stones, hoping that they wouldn't need to resort to using them.

As the group set out for the trade gathering, the tribesmen's sense of urgency was palpable. Aries, accompanied by the trio, opted to travel in the carriage. He extended an invitation to the chief, suggesting that he join them in the carriage. However, the chief hesitated, recalling the challenges he faced before when trying to navigate the cramped space due to his larger stature.

The chief declined Aries' offer, preferring to travel alongside the tribesmen on foot. Aries understood the chief's reluctance and didn't press the matter further. The chief's determination to uphold his leadership responsibilities even in the face of physical inconveniences earned Aries' respect.

East of the village lay the path leading to the forest, while to the north stretched the direction that would take them to the Sky Feather tribe. The geographical layout held significant implications for the journey ahead.

As the group of tribesmen, led by the chief and accompanied by Aries and his companions, made their way northward, a sense of anticipation filled the air. The journey to the Sky Feather tribe was not only about trade but also about building relationships, sharing knowledge, and fostering unity among the different tribes.

Throughout the journey, Aries' senses remained sharp, and his hand never strayed far from his collection of powder bombs and magic stones. He watched as the tribesmen ahead maintained a vigilant pace, their heightened awareness a testament to the potential dangers of the drylands. Aries couldn't help but appreciate their unity and the sense of responsibility they held for their community's safety.

As they navigated the terrain, the carriage's wheels rolled smoothly over the solid ground. Aries' mind occasionally wandered, contemplating the complexities of leadership and the sacrifices individuals like the chief made for the well-being of their tribe. The chief's commitment to leading by example left a lasting impression on Aries, reinforcing his determination to contribute in any way he could.

As the journey continued, the landscape underwent a gradual transformation. The oppressive heat of the arid lands began to give way to a more temperate climate, evidenced by the cooler breeze that swept through the air. In the distance, the sight of grass-covered terrain emerged, signaling the transition from the harsh drylands to a more hospitable environment.

As they drew closer to the area with scattered trees, the chief couldn't help but comment on the favorable conditions they were witnessing. "Aren't they lucky to live in a place like this?" he remarked, addressing Aries directly.

Aries, however, offered a perspective that went beyond the immediate comfort of the environment. "Not lucky enough to have a forest," he retorted, his gaze fixed on a broader vision.

The chief's annoyance was palpable, but he seemed more intrigued than angered by Aries' response. "Do you mean, a dangerous forest?" he questioned, his tone a mix of skepticism and curiosity.

Aries' assertion remained resolute. "Yeah, the dangerous forest which will be our home soon."

The exchange of words between the chief and Aries underscored the differing viewpoints they held. While the chief was focused on the present advantages of the more fertile landscape, Aries was steadfast in his belief that the forest offered a realm of untapped potential, even if it meant contending with its inherent dangers.

Despite the brief clash of opinions, a sense of understanding lingered beneath the surface. The chief recognized that Aries' perspective was rooted in a larger vision for the future, one that aimed to address not only their immediate needs but also their long-term survival and prosperity.

As the chief's annoyance subsided, he couldn't help but ponder the implications of Aries' words. The arid lands were becoming increasingly hostile, and the villagers' reliance on meager results from their hunts was unsustainable. Aries' audacious plans might just hold the key to their salvation, with the chief realizing that the collaboration between Aries and the villagers could bring about a new beginning for their tribe.