Two days after the fight with Kael, Usato was set to attend the banquet held at the center of the tribe. Finishing the last stance of his exercise, he wiped the sweat from his body. He asked Sky to remind him an hour before the banquet.
Sky replied, "Affirmative, Sky will remind Host one hour before the banquet. Any other instructions?"
"Right," Usato said. "Since you can deploy nanobots already, please deploy them at the training ground, near the Ancestral Altar, and other key parts of the tribe. We need to gather as many bargaining chips as we can, since we're outsiders."
"Also, Sky," Usato added, "since you've researched a few herbs during our expedition, can you introduce me to some herbs that can possibly be used in tempering the body?"
Sky's voice was analytical. "Affirmative, Host. Based on my research and analysis of the local flora, I've identified several herbs that may be useful in tempering the body. One such herb, which I've temporarily designated as 'DL-1A' or 'Ironbark Leaf', appears to have a unique iron-like bark structure and contains compounds that could enhance physical resilience. Fortunately, this herb can be found in the nearby area, approximately 500 meters east of the tribe's central grounds."
Sky paused before continuing. "The other herb, temporarily designated as 'DP-2B' or 'Stormpetal Flower', has a petal structure that resembles storm-battered petals and may have properties that improve circulation and accelerate healing. However, this herb is located approximately 5 kilometers northwest of the tribe's grounds, and the terrain is slightly more treacherous. Additionally, my scans indicate the presence of a guardian beast in the area, which may pose a threat to harvesting the herb."
Usato's eyes narrowed, weighing the risks and benefits. "I see. Well, let's prioritize the Ironbark Leaf for now. We can focus on harvesting that one first, and then consider the Stormpetal Flower later."
Sky's voice was prompt. "Affirmative, Host. In fact, I suggest utilizing the available nanobots to harvest and extract the essence of DL-1A. This would eliminate the need for manual collection and minimize potential risks."
Usato's expression turned thoughtful. "That's a good idea, Sky. How many nanobots do we have available for this task?"
Sky replied, "We have approximately 200 nanobots that can be deployed for harvesting and extraction. I've already programmed them with the necessary instructions and parameters. With your authorization, I can deploy them to collect the Ironbark Leaf and extract its essence."
Usato nodded, even though Sky couldn't see him. "Go ahead and deploy the nanobots, Sky."
Sky acknowledged, "Affirmative, Host. Nanobots are being deployed. Estimated time for completion is approximately 2 hours."
Just as Usato was about to respond, Sky interrupted, "Host, I've received a report from one of the reconnaissance nanobots. It appears that a tribesman has been detected approaching your hut. ETA for arrival is approximately 10 minutes."
Usato's expression turned cautious. "What's the tribesman's identity and intentions?"
Sky replied, "The nanobot's scan indicates that the approaching tribesman is Gorthok, the same individual you met at the training grounds during Kael's challenge. I'm still analyzing the data, but it's possible that he may be coming to discuss something related to the upcoming banquet or perhaps the recent events at the training grounds."
Usato's expression turned slightly cold. "Let him knock. I'm not particularly eager to see him."
Sky acknowledged, "Understood, Host. I'll monitor the situation and keep you informed."
Usato's thoughts drifted back to the incident at the training grounds. He couldn't help but feel that Gorthok's interference had escalated the situation, leading to the fight with Kael. If Gorthok hadn't approached him, perhaps things wouldn't have gotten out of hand.
Gorthok's voice echoed from outside the hut, "Lord Usato... are you there? I'm Gorthok, your assigned guide for the upcoming banquet."
Usato's eyes widened, and he felt a momentary lapse in response. It was the first time anyone had addressed him as "Lord," and the novelty of the experience left him speechless for a second.
Gorthok's nervous tone continued, "I-I hope I'm not disturbing you, Lord Usato. I wanted to extend my apologies for what happened yesterday at the training grounds. I didn't mean to cause any trouble."
Usato regained his composure, and his voice came out calm and measured. "Enter, Gorthok. We need to talk."
The door to the hut creaked open, and Gorthok stepped inside, his eyes cast downward in a sign of respect. "Thank you, Lord Usato. I'm grateful for your understanding."
Usato gestured for Gorthok to take a seat, and the tribesman complied, his movements stiff and formal. Usato's expression softened, and he nodded. "Apology accepted, Gorthok. But tell me, why have you come so early? The banquet isn't until tonight, is it?"
Gorthok's eyes lifted, and he explained, "According to our tradition, Lord Usato, the most important guest is prepared by the tribe's maid, who will help you wear our traditional tribal attire. You will also be briefed on the tribal dance, which is an essential part of our celebration."
Gorthok paused, taking a deep breath before continuing, "After the preparations are complete, the Tribal Leader will announce the beginning of the banquet. It's a great honor for us to host you, Lord Usato, and we want to ensure that everything is done according to our customs."
Usato nodded with understanding. "I see. When do we head out?"
Gorthok stood up, his expression eager. "If possible, Lord Usato, we should go right now. The preparations will take some time, and we don't want to delay the start of the banquet."
Usato nodded, and followed Gorthok out of the hut.
---
(The scene shifts to the tribal banquet, where the tribesmen are gathered around a large fire. The air is filled with the savory smell of roasting meat, and the sound of drums and flutes can be heard in the distance.)
Thorne, the Tribal Leader, stood up, his voice booming across the gathering. "My friends, family, and honored guests, the time has come to begin our celebration! Tonight, we gather to honor a remarkable individual, one who has earned our respect and gratitude."
Thorne's eyes locked onto Usato, who was standing at the edge of the gathering. "Lord Usato, your selfless act of healing our injured hunters has earned you a place of honor among us. Please, come forward and join us at the center."
The tribesmen parted, creating a path for Usato to walk through. As he made his way to the center, the drums and flutes grew louder, and the tribesmen began to prepare for their tribal dance.
As Usato reached the center, the tribesmen erupted into a vibrant tribal song, their voices rising and falling in a joyful cadence. The drums pulsed with energy, and the flutes trilled with a lively melody.
The festive atmosphere was electric, with the tribesmen and women dancing and spinning around Usato. The fire crackled and spat, casting a warm glow over the gathering.
Thorne raised his arms, and the music swelled to a crescendo. "Let us celebrate our guest, Lord Usato! Let us honor his kindness and generosity!"
The tribesmen cheered and chanted Usato's name, their faces alight with excitement and gratitude. Usato smiled, feeling a sense of wonder and belonging amidst the vibrant celebration.