“We don’t have to go to a Large Tribe – we could visit the Small Tribes.” Luo still naively suggested.
Kai rolled his eyes in frustration, as this comment clearly indicated they would only visit Small Tribes to return before the rainy season.
“Small Tribes? What could they offer for training?” Shan challenged, seizing on this point for argument.
“Small Tribes might have things our Tribe doesn’t. They’re probably eager to trade, and we could exchange dried meat for their goods.” Luo calmly replied, as if the words came naturally without calculation.
Kai was stunned. He had thought his Father’s question would end their chances, but Luo’s unexpected answer surprised him.
Shan nodded thoughtfully, seeming to agree. “Explain more.”
Kai felt relieved seeing his Father’s reaction, thinking they still had a chance.
“We always trade with Large Tribes, who get their goods from Small Tribes. Trading directly with Large Tribes limits what we get.” Luo sniffed and continued. “If we trade directly with the Small Tribes, wouldn’t we get more?”
He had thought about this during training but never mentioned it since Tribe matters were not his concern. This expedition gave him the perfect excuse, and he was confident the Chieftain would agree.
Shan seemed moved by the argument, finding it logical.
“How do you know this? Who told you about this?” Shan asked.
“No one – I figured it out myself.” Luo immediately answered.
His simple appearance and shy nature limited his friendships to just Kai. They trained together daily, and he rarely left his wooden house, so he had little interaction with others.
“So you want to seek partnerships with other Tribes?” Shan solemnly asked.
“While we’re out training, we’ll keep the Tribe’s interests in mind.” Kai quickly added, taking over before the typically simple Luo could say more.
Shan struggled with the decision. Letting them go seemed dangerous, but refusing meant missing an opportunity.
Luo understood trading, but they were not Totem Warriors yet. They certainly could not face Ferocious Beasts alone. Still, was danger not inherent in training? Without risk, it would be just sightseeing.
“Father, what do you think?” Kai pressed, not wanting to give him time for second thoughts.
“When do you want to leave?” Shan conceded.
“Today, if possible. Time is short.” Kai replied urgently, as if delaying would cost them the opportunity.
“Yes, I can leave today too.” Luo nodded.
Shan frowned thoughtfully before saying, “You can go, but not just you two.”
“Father, we don’t need Totem Warriors. That wouldn’t be real training.” Kai protested, not wanting protection.
“True, having Totem Warriors would make this meaningless.” Luo agreed, sharing the desire for adventure without protection.
“Let me finish.” Shan said seriously. “I know training means no Totem Warriors.”
“Then who else will come with us?” Kai asked, confused.
“I’ll send more Warrior Trainees for their own training.” Shan explained.
Kai sighed in relief. Anyone but Totem Warriors was acceptable.
“Which Warrior Trainees will join us?” He asked.
“Don’t worry about that. Just pack your things. They’ll meet you later.” Shan dismissed them.
“Understood,” Kai smiled, surprised by the quick approval and lack of scolding.
The two quickly left, grinning, before Shan could change his mind.
“Finally, we can go out to train!” Kai nearly jumped with excitement.
“See? Your Father wasn’t so fierce.” Luo grinned and sniffled.
“Who knew he’d agree so quickly? It is all thanks to you.” Kai could not stop smiling.
[noscript][/noscript]