Vivian's appearance in this peaceful settlement caused quite a stir.
Gai Ze'er raised the Sacred Blade and spread the news throughout the tribe. Seven warriors dressed just like him gathered from all over the settlement. They included both men and women, and all shared the same distinctive facial markings and special short knives worn at their waists. They surrounded Vivian and Heiserana. When the short knives sensed the resonance of magic and began glowing red, these warriors, regarded as "sacred vessels," loudly proclaimed the Goddess's manifestation.
After the entire settlement recovered from its tremendous shock, a grand celebration began. Men, women, the elderly, and children brought out beverages from their felt tents that could only be enjoyed during festivals. The strong men, led by several elders, went to slaughter livestock and prepare for an all-night feast. Meanwhile, some women wearing strange headdresses took ceramic jars decorated with ancient patterns from a special felt tent. They evenly distributed the spices stored inside among everyone in the settlement, so they could sprinkle them over the meat when the feast began. These spices were luxuries that could only be enjoyed at religious ceremonies. Cheerful, sonorous singing and somewhat noisy but invigorating music rang out from every corner of the settlement. Even without understanding the customs of these indigenous people, anyone immersed in the scene could feel the joy spreading through every person's heart. Lily watched the exotic celebration from an open area by the river and could not resist poking Vivian in the arm. "Bat, this is all to welcome you?"
Vivian was not as nervous as everyone imagined. She was merely unaccustomed to the reverent and worshipful gazes occasionally cast her way. Aside from that, she remained calm and composed, while muttering softly to Lily, "Honestly, I never expected them to make