Deserter

Important friends…

Oakley's smile never wavered. It remained mild and distant.

Gu Mengmeng felt a sudden sense of helplessness. Perhaps this was one aspect where Cole was better than her. She never learned how to grasp someone's heart. No matter how much she wished to save this friendship, she would still lose this friend.

"There were 16 tribe leaders standing with me today to welcome the Great Messenger. In return for access to the water source, their tribes have to come under Sauder and become tributaries to the Great Messenger. Every year after the monsoon season, they must present us with 20 premium beast skins. And before the winter season, they must contribute 20 large hunted game." Oakley clarified the situation in a calm manner.

Gu Mengmeng chuckled. Was this a colonial rule? Weaker tribes paying tribute to more powerful ones in return for protection…