18. MEETING

As I prepared to step inside, my mind raced with thoughts of how I could earn their trust and secure their allegiance. Every word and action from this moment onward would matter, and I knew I had to tread carefully. Failure was not an option.

The large doors creaked open, their sound breaking the stillness of the moment. A dimly lit interior was revealed, its shadows dancing along the polished floor that looked as if it had been created recently. Taking a deep breath, I stepped inside, my footsteps echoing softly in the quiet space. Uric moved ahead of me with deliberate strides, his posture radiating silent confidence as he guided me through the grand halls.

We soon arrived at a spacious chamber, the air thick with authority and expectation. Eight individuals were gathered inside, each one exuding an undeniable sense of importance. At the far end of the room, a member of the Forge Born tribe sat with an aura of quiet strength. His sheer presence was magnetic, commanding attention without effort.

To his right, six individuals were seated in a straight row. Their postures were rigid, their gazes piercing as they regarded me with scrutiny. Every movement, every glance seemed deliberate, their collective silence reinforcing the gravity of the moment.

Standing slightly apart from the main group was Nix, the man I had saved before. A spear rested firmly in his grip, his stance both alert and at ease. Our eyes met, and a warm smile crossed his face—a silent acknowledgment of the bond we had formed. He nodded in greeting, a small gesture that carried a depth of meaning. I returned the nod with a faint smile of my own, feeling a flicker of reassurance at his familiar presence amidst the sea of unfamiliar faces.

The room was heavy with silence, the weight of unspoken expectations pressing down as all eyes settled on me.

The figure seated at the far end of the room, his air of authority unmistakable, broke the silence first. His voice was calm yet commanding, filling the space effortlessly.

"Greetings, stranger. Thank you for saving a member of our tribe. Your actions have not gone unnoticed. How can we repay you for your kindness?"

I straightened my posture and spoke with measured calm. "My name is Adam. Helping your people was no trouble for me, and I seek no repayment. I have not come to ask for assistance in return. My purpose here is different."

The leader's eyes narrowed slightly as he regarded me. His gaze was sharp, probing, and unyielding as he scrutinized my words and demeanor. After a pause, he spoke again, his tone steady but cautious.

"If you are not here seeking help or repayment, then why have you come? What is it that you propose?"

I held his gaze, my voice firm and unwavering as I replied, "I have a vision. I wish to create a place where different races can coexist in harmony—a sanctuary where peace is not just a dream, but a reality."

The leader leaned forward, his expression neutral but his curiosity evident. His voice was calm yet laced with intrigue as he asked, "And how do you intend to achieve such a thing?"

I met his question head-on, my conviction clear in every word. "I will create a kingdom—a place where people from all races can come together. Each race has its strengths and weaknesses. Some excel in combat, while others do not."

I paused briefly, allowing my words to settle in the room before continuing. "Some, like your tribe, possess exceptional skills in construction and craftsmanship, while others may lack such talents. Each race has unique qualities that make them valuable. My goal is to foster an environment where these strengths and weaknesses complement one another—a kingdom built on mutual cooperation and support."

The tribe leader's gaze sharpened, his eyes never leaving mine as he asked, "And what role do you envision for our tribe in this kingdom of yours?"

Without hesitation, I responded, "Your tribe's extraordinary talent in architecture and craftsmanship is unparalleled. I want you to join me in this endeavor to create architectural marvels—structures that will stand as symbols of unity and ingenuity across the world. Together, we can build something that will endure through the ages."

As my words hung in the air, I noticed the six individuals seated to the leader's right begin whispering among themselves. Their hushed tones carried a weight of urgency, but I chose not to eavesdrop. Instead, I remained focused on the leader before me, determined to respect their process.

When their murmurs subsided and their attention returned to me, I continued, my voice steady and resolute. "If your tribe joins me, I give you my word that I will do everything in my power to protect your people from any threats to their safety and livelihood."

I allowed my words to linger, carefully observing their reactions. My gaze shifted briefly to Nix, who stood nearby with a smile that radiated confidence and belief in me. Despite our brief history, it was clear that he trusted me, and I silently vowed to prove worthy of that trust.

Now, all I could do was wait. The decision they made would shape not only my path but also the future of my vision.

After a moment of thoughtful silence, the tribe leader finally spoke, his voice calm and measured. "I cannot give you an answer immediately. This is a decision that requires careful consideration. I must first consult with the elders of our tribe before reaching a conclusion. Nix," he said, turning his attention to him, "please escort our guest to a suitable place where he can rest and ensure he is provided with food while we discuss on this matter."

I inclined my head respectfully, acknowledging his words. "Thank you for your time. May your decision be what is best for your tribe."

With those parting words, I turned to follow Nix, who gestured for me to accompany him. My footsteps echoed softly in the quiet halls as we left the chamber, leaving the leader and his council to their discussions.