Tribesman's New Life

Chapter 39: Scarlet Grove

After a period of much-needed rest, Aries resumed his daily life. The dark wolf leader had grown even stronger and larger, leading a pack of domesticated wolves in the village. Additionally, the giant egg from the Sky Feather tribe hatched, revealing a young giant eagle. Though inexperienced in avian care, Aries nurtured the creature, feeding it with beast meat and watching it grow into a loyal scout that patrolled the skies above.

Despite the distractions and newfound responsibilities, Aries couldn't shake his preoccupation with the symbols and blessings of the gods. He chose to keep this aspect of his abilities hidden, knowing that the chief might demand more from him if he were to reveal such powers. In a bid to maintain some semblance of normalcy, Aries deliberately avoided drawing attention to himself.

As time passed, First, Second, and Third finally visited Aries. Although Third had abstained from the hunt, she had participated in the ceremony and consumed a beast heart as well. With their awakenings, Aries was happy for his companions. First had discovered his blessing while hunting, his senses heightened by the scent of blood, making him adept at tracking. Second's blessing allowed her to become more lightweight, enhancing her agility and granting her the ability to glide through the air for extended periods. Third had yet to perceive any significant changes, save for the symbols themselves.

However, their celebration was short-lived, interrupted by grave news that left them all on edge.

Aries received an urgent summons from the chief, leading him to the village hall where he was met by a gathering of the tribe's strongest members. A sense of urgency permeated the atmosphere, and Aries immediately wondered if another beast wave was the cause of the assembly.

"It's about news from the Sky Feather tribe," the chief explained, his tone serious. Aries examined the message, recognizing the urgency conveyed by the symbols – he had designed them himself, after all.

"Is there a threat to their village?" Aries inquired internally, understanding that cooperation with the Sky Feather tribe was necessary despite their differences.

The chief continued, "We must act quickly. How many carriages can we spare for this mission?"

"We currently have four carriages ready," Aries responded promptly.

"That will suffice. The hunt leader will lead the group, and you will assist with strategy. Twenty more tribesmen will accompany you," the chief instructed, his urgency apparent. "I will dispatch a hundred additional tribesmen to follow and provide support."

Without hesitation, Aries and the others nodded in agreement, recognizing the gravity of the situation and the need for swift action. The safety of the Sky Feather tribe, as well as potential future alliances, hinged upon their response to this urgent call for help.

The journey towards the Sky Feather Village was tense and fast-paced. Aries' mind was occupied by a mix of worries and memories, including his vision of the village engulfed in flames. The faster pace of the eagle compared to their carriage weighed heavily on his mind, creating a sense of urgency. Though he tried to dismiss his vision as a mere coincidence, it was difficult to shake off the unease it brought.

Despite the potential dangers that loomed, Aries couldn't help but appreciate the unity of their tribe. The Forest Guardians understood the limitations of their location and didn't seek help even during the beast wave. Their isolation came with both challenges and advantages.

Upon arriving at the Sky Feather Village earlier than expected, the group was met with a sight of exhaustion as the wolves that had pulled their carriage collapsed from fatigue. It was a testament to the urgency of their journey. Thankfully, the village appeared undisturbed for now, but that didn't ease Aries' worries. The hunt leader and Aries, accompanied by the other tribesmen, entered the village to address the situation.

The guard's words were a reminder of the dire circumstances. Aries and the hunt leader exchanged a quick glance, understanding the responsibility they held in these moments of crisis. They followed the guard's lead and proceeded towards the village hall, where discussions about the situation were likely to unfold.

Just like during trade gatherings, Aries and the hunt leader were the ones allowed inside the village hall, where the leaders of the Sky Feather tribe were waiting. The weight of the situation hung in the air, and Aries couldn't shake off the feeling that their actions in the coming hours would shape the fate of the tribe and perhaps the entire forest.

Inside the village hall, Aries met the representative leaders and their corresponding hunt leaders. Some awkwardness lingered due to past conflicts, but Aries paid it no mind, confident with his trusty shotgun by his side.

"Everyone's present. I've received distressing news from scouts in other tribes not allied with us. The central alliance is on the move. The Scarlet Grove tribe, a neutral faction, has been overtaken by them. Despite their peaceful ways, they were subjugated. This happened a few days ago, and now, there are reports that they're heading in our village's direction," the Sky Feather chief shared.

A strange memory flashed through Aries' mind. He recalled glimpses of trees with red blossoms, their petals falling amidst flames. He brushed it off as a coincidence tied to the village's name.

"Isn't this happening rather quickly? Our numbers are a mere trifle of the central alliance's strength. It's hard to imagine we can stand against them," the hunt leader of the Swift Needle tribe added, expressing the concerns of the group. The vast numerical difference between the two alliances was apparent and worrisome to all.

"Are you implying we should relocate even farther away? How long can we keep retreating? Eventually, they'll force every tribe to join them, unless we're willing to face extinction," the Sky Feather tribe chief responded, his tone heavy with the gravity of the situation.