.
The Taino songs were ancient and joyful, echoing with bursts of hide drums inside and outside the chief's hut. Old militiaman Chiwako listened patiently, his face filled with a peaceful smile. Only when the singing ceased did the ritual to inform the gods and ancestors come to an end.
The hut fell quiet again. Old village chief Yukamu reached into his robes and once more took out a handful of Cohiba tobacco-leaf "spears," handing them to Chiwako. Before long, the two were swallowing clouds and exhaling mist, smoking the most primitive cigars, and speaking frankly through Kuba's translation.
"Respected village chief Yukamu, our fleet needs food and water. I am willing to bring out the fleet's goods to exchange with you!"
Old militiaman Chiwako looked sincere as he openly stated the purpose of this journey. Hearing this, old village chief Yukamu was startled, then smiled and replied.
"Tribe of the lake, friends from afar! The gods and ancestors watch over the village, and you are our guests. You may directly share our food and replenish what you need."
"Uh..."
Hearing this, Chiwako scratched his head. He thought for a while, but still shook his head.
"Praise the gods, and thank you for your generosity! But our fleet has many people, and the grain we need is also very great. We cannot take your food for nothing. We have enough goods to exchange, whatever you like."
At this point, Chiwako beckoned and called to Mountain Bird, who was carrying a bamboo basket on his back.
"Mountain Bird, bring the things up!"
Soon, before old village chief Yukamu there was a small bag of cacao, a handspan of cotton cloth, a small bag of Lake Gems, a small bag of gold and silver, and several bright feathers. These were all the