361 The Seven Stinks (1/2)
The Infertile Plains was barren, but it was not flat. The hills, crevasses, and craters on the barren land created numerous blind spots.
Chief Valencia frowned when she could not detect anything despite the sentries informing of suspicious movements outside the tribe.
”You said there were suspicious movements outside the tribe? Where?” Chief Valencia asked the warrior.
”According to the sentries, there were numerous small movements in the distant shadows from the northwest direction. They weren't able to conclude any identities, but they are certain that the irregularity did not belong to the movements of the clouds.”
Chief Valencia nodded.
Under the crimson moonlight, the shadows of the slow-moving clouds can be seen everywhere. Chief Valencia was about to refute this point, but there was no longer a need after listening to the warrior's full report.
Her gaze penetrated the northwest direction and scoured the land with her sharp sight. After seeing nothing of interest, she retracted her gaze. She frowned when she recalled Goldeneye's information.
”Double the sentries and stay vigilant of our surroundings. It could be fake vagabonds scouting the situation of our tribe.”
After a short pause, Chief Valencia added, ”It's not fair that the sentries are missing out on the Great Feast. Let them know that everyone participating in sentry duty tonight will receive 500 Dark Crystals each.”
”Yes, Chief! Thank you for your consideration and benevolence!” The warrior answered happily.
500 Dark Crystal was a hefty sum for a single night watch. Many would be happy to sign up for the job.
It was not the first time the Darkmoon Tribe have been scouted by other tribes. In fact, it was a regular occurrence, both during the period of the Bone Calamity and outside of it.
The warrior was only confused by Chief Valencia had paid particular attention to the fake vagabonds sent as scouts by the other tribes this time around.
…
Shortly after Chief Valencia left, an old Shaman said, ”Old Tailor, you are the most familiar with our little friend here. Don't you think you should introduce us?”
”Hohoho, that's a good idea. I believe our little friend here has yet to learn who we are. Old Tailor, you should really introduce us.” Another Shaman chimed in.
”You're asking for that now? Why didn't you say so before when Chief Valencia was still around? Anyway, since when was it my job to do the introduction? You Old Farts don't know how to introduce yourselves?”
The Old Tailor was a bit speechless. What most familiar? He just met the boy not long ago.
”Haiz, it's just a little introduction, Old Tailor. Why do you have to make it sound like such a drag?” Old Tinker said.
”Listen up, Little Brother Leonhardt. This Old Fart here is called Old Tinker. If you have a lot of Dark Crystals on hand and looking to have your trinkets enchanted, then you are looking at the right person. His character is questionable, but his skills are undeniably the best in the tribe.”
Old Tinker flaunted a proud look, but halfway through Old Tailor's introduction, his expression froze.
”Oi, oi, oi. What do you mean my character is questionable?” Old Tinker scowled. ”Don't listen to his nonsense, kid. Just swing by my trinket store if you need some quality goods. I guarantee my prices are most fair.”
Old Tailor snickered and continued, ”This black sheep is called Old Hammer. In terms of weapon enchantment, he is the best of the best in the tribe. However, unless you are looking to empty your wallet and lose a layer of skin while you are at it, I suggest you visit another weapon store…”
”…This Old Hag is Old Baba, the top alchemist in the tribe. Since Little Brother Leonhardt is a proficient healer, I do not need to say too much here. Even I do not dare to drink her healing potions. Do not get me wrong, her healing potions are super effective. It is just that they stink like her dirty old water…”
”This Old Crook is…”
Old Tailor proceeded to introduce another three Shamans of notable status, each with their own specialization in a different field.
Old Fjord was an expert in charge of the tribe's underground water collection and distillation. Old Alexis oversaw the tribe's defense mechanism and formation. Lastly, Old Wiz was a master of puppetry and automaton studies.