Tribesman's New Life

Chapter 21: Sky Feather Tribe

The night had descended upon the land, and with it came their arrival at the Sky Feather tribe's trade gathering. The journey had been relatively swift, and before long, the small group found themselves standing before the imposing gates of the host tribe. The guards stationed at the entrance were visibly taken aback by the commanding presence exuded by Wolfie, the formidable dark wolf leader in their midst. Despite their intimidation, the chief reassured the guards that the wolf posed no threat to the tribe's members, a statement that did little to dispel their unease.

In contrast to their own village, the Sky Feather tribe was notably grander in scale. The gate and walls were constructed from sturdier materials, exuding an air of permanence and fortification. Houses were generously spaced, affording more room for each household, and the layout appeared organized and efficient. Wells were scattered throughout the village, ensuring a steady supply of water. Aries' keen eyes didn't miss the sight of lush farms on the outskirts, boasting an array of fruits and vegetables that included some he recognized and others that were entirely new to him.

The grassy plains of the tribe's surroundings had distinct advantages of their own, as evidenced by the presence of remarkable aerial creatures that soared gracefully overhead. These avian beings, reminiscent of eagles, seemed to have a unique relationship with the village, occasionally swooping down into homes before taking flight again. This peculiar bond between the tribe and the majestic creatures was likely the inspiration behind the tribe's evocative name, the Sky Feather tribe.

Among all the differences, one thing became evident to Aries: despite the larger expanse of the Sky Feather village, there appeared to be a relatively smaller population than that of their own tribe. The juxtaposition of size and population density was a testament to the diverse ways in which tribes adapted to their surroundings and established their communities.

As the group was guided to their designated area within the village, Aries marveled at the various elements that distinguished the Sky Feather tribe from their own. The scene before him resonated with his vision of a flourishing community, one that combined strength and unity with the bounties of nature.

Upon their arrival, a cluster of imposing houses greeted them, standing as symbols of authority and significance. Four more of these grand structures lined the area, creating a sense of importance within this part of the village. Not too distant from their current position loomed the tallest edifice in sight, a building that undoubtedly served as the village's central hall, embodying the administrative heart of the Sky Feather tribe.

As anticipation swirled in the air, a man emerged from one of the substantial dwellings. Despite his stature being slightly smaller than their own chief, his presence exuded an air of authority that couldn't be ignored. "Ahaaaa! Welcome to our humble tribe, Forest Guardians. I haven't seen you for months!" The man's greeting carried an undercurrent of condescension, evident to those who listened closely.

Clearly irked by the man's choice of words, their own chief responded assertively. "You know we don't use our tribe name anymore, Sky Feather's chief. We came here to trade and not to be disrespected by you!" With a shift from his seated position to standing, their chief's posture conveyed a message of unwavering strength and resolve. He made it clear that despite their tribe's past difficulties in protecting the forest, their force remained unyielding and not to be taken lightly.

Aries couldn't help but feel a surge of surprise upon hearing their village referred to as the "Forest Guardians." The revelation caught him off guard, considering that he had come to associate their tribe with their pursuit of survival rather than any official name. However, as the words settled in, Aries realized that the name itself carried a deeper implication-one that hinted at their tribe's responsibility and the legacy they were meant to uphold.

The name "Forest Guardians" was more than a mere title; it was a testament to their tribe's historical role as protectors of the forest. It underscored their duty to preserve the balance of the natural world and to safeguard the environment they called home. Yet, as he contemplated the name's significance, Aries also recognized the hint of failure woven into it.

As tensions heightened within the meeting space, Aries couldn't help but observe the unfolding dynamics. The arrival of the giant eagle and its subsequent landing on the shoulder of the Sky Feather chief added an air of regality to his presence. Aries sensed that this was more than a mere display; it was a power play, a show of strength and authority meant to emphasize the Sky Feather chief's position.

The resounding howl from Wolfie outside, echoing with a blend of warning and readiness, resonated with Aries' heart. It was a testament to the bond between him and the dark wolf, a reminder that even in the face of challenges, he had a loyal companion ready to protect and stand by his side. Aries felt a surge of pride as he looked out toward Wolfie, a living symbol of his determination and the alliance he had forged.

The Sky Feather chief backed off after that tense stand-off. His gaze lingered on the tribesmen that the Forest Guardian chief had brought with him, and a sly smirk curved his lips. "A kid and three youngsters? Are you losing too many people in the drylands that you had to bring unqualified tribesmen to the trade gathering?" His words dripped with condescension, fueling the fire of disrespect.

Internally, Aries seethed with anger at the insults being thrown their way. Yet, he understood that engaging in a verbal sparring match with this fool would only lead to frustration. With a controlled demeanor, the Forest Guardian chief spoke, "Get out. We'll see you at the gathering tomorrow." The chief's tone held an air of finality, a clear indication that he was done with the Sky Feather chief's provocations.

The Forest Guardian chief turned his back on the Sky Feather chief and resumed his seat, resolute in maintaining his composure. The Sky Feather chief's retort followed, a mix of bitterness and resentment in his voice, "Tsk! Acting as if you're still the strongest around here." With that, the Sky Feather chief exited the scene, leaving behind an atmosphere of lingering tension and unspoken challenges.

After the Sky Feather chief left, another figure stepped forward, a smaller, slender man resembling a regular tribesman. "Not bad, chief. You really got under his skin," the man commented with a joyful expression. "What do you want, Swift Needle chief?" The Forest Guardian chief replied. Aries observed that this man was also a chief from a different tribe, his physique differing from the other two in a way that suggested a unique fighting style based on his tribe's name.

"You know me, when I see something I want, I'll do what it takes to get it," the Swift Needle chief remarked, his tone indicating a clear intention. "And right now, what I want is that dark wolf."