The Promise

Moonlight bathed the path. Qingsui walked beside Yan, her footsteps light and almost silent. Her skirt fluttered gently in the night breeze, and the moonlight bathed her, giving her a silvery-white halo, making her look like someone who had stepped out of a painting. Yan walked beside her, a fist's distance between their shoulders. The night wind blew from the riverbank, carrying the coolness of water and the scent of grass, stirring his clothes and ruffling his hair. He turned his head to look at Qingsui, and the moonlight fell on her profile, tracing a soft arc. Their shadows were cast on the ground, overlapping, separating, and overlapping again.

After a moment of silence, Yan spoke first, "Qingsui, your cooking skills have improved a lot recently. The dishes tonight were delicious, especially the grilled fish. It was cooked to perfection, with a crispy skin and tender meat inside, and the flavors were really well absorbed."

Upon hearing this, Qingsui smiled faintly, her eyes curving into crescents, and said, "I have to thank you for the seasonings you gave me last time. Otherwise, I wouldn't have been able to make this taste like this. Those seasonings are really good; just a little bit can enhance the flavor significantly. My dishes used to always lacked something, but after adding your seasonings, even my father said they tasted much better."

Yan said, "That's because you're willing to put in the effort to research. The same seasonings will taste different depending on who uses them. Only those who are willing to put their heart into it can make delicious dishes."

Qingsui nodded, her steps becoming lighter, and said, "However, I've almost used up the seasonings you gave me last time. Now I often cook delicious food for my father, and the tribe's chiefs and elders come over from time to time to freeload, drawn by the aroma. My father can't refuse, and he always says, 'Then let's add a couple more dishes to eat together.' So I'm using up a lot of seasonings, and they're going through very quickly."

She turned her head to look at Yan, her eyes filled with a mixture of expectation and pleading, and asked, "Did you bring any more seasonings with you this time?"

Looking at her, Yan couldn't help but laugh and said, "I brought some. I also brought you some seasonings this time, even more than last time. I've packed all sorts of spices. I'll give them to you when we get to our temporary camp."

Upon hearing this, Qingsui's eyes lit up, and her smile deepened. She exclaimed happily, "That's wonderful! With these seasonings, I can research a few new dishes. Once I've made them, I'll cook them for you to try next time you come."

"Okay." Yan nodded. "Then I'll wait."

The two walked for a while, then fell silent. Qingsui looked down at the ground, seemingly lost in thought. After a long pause, she looked up at Yan, her gaze serious, and said, "Yan, you just said at the banquet that most of the tribes in the Big Horse River Basin are planning to join your Fire Tribe after the autumn harvest? So your Fire Tribe will soon be bordering our Valley Tribe's Little Valley Camp Outpost?"

Yan nodded and said, "Yes, there are about 20,000 people in the Big Horse River Basin. Now, about 15,000 people have confirmed that they will join our Fire Tribe after the autumn harvest. The two largest tribes in the Big Horse River Basin — the Maple Leaf Tribe and the Toon Tribe— are willing to join. They have also helped us contact other smaller tribes to join our Fire Tribe. After the autumn harvest, these people will migrate to the Fire Tribe."

He paused, thought for a moment, and then said, "In the future, our Fire Tribe will also build a stronghold in the Big Horse River Basin to gradually absorb the remaining population. After the stronghold is built, our two allied tribes will truly be adjacent. At that time, if you need any help, our Fire Tribe can provide timely assistance, instead of being separated by a vast territory like we are now."

Upon hearing this, Qingsui smiled happily and said, "That's wonderful! Our Valley Tribe is always uneasy because the Tiger Tribe is watching us. The closer you are to us, the more at ease we feel, like we have a Dashan to lean on. We feel much more secure."

Yan smiled, but his smile held a hint of thoughtfulness as he said, "However, there is a Horse Tribe between the Big Horse River Basin and our Fire Tribe. Before the Horse Tribe joins our Fire Tribe, it will be difficult for us to expand our strongholds in the Big Horse River Basin. Although the Horse Tribe is not large, their location is crucial, blocking our path between us and the Big Horse River Basin."

He looked ahead at the road, his gaze deep, and said, "However, you don't need to worry. After we absorb all the tribes outside the Horse Tribe this year, next year our Fire Tribe will ask the Horse Tribe to the Fire Tribe. At that time, we will all be one family, and everything will be easy to discuss. If they are not willing to join our Fire Tribe, we will find them a good place and will not make things difficult for them."

Qingsui nodded slightly and said, "I've heard a bit about Junfeng, the leader of the Horse Tribe. He's a shrewd man and should be able to see the situation clearly. Your Fire Tribe is so powerful now, he shouldn't choose to oppose you."

Yan nodded and said, "I hope so. If the Horse Tribe joins our Fire Tribe, our Fire Tribe will be even stronger. Then, the Fire Tribe's influence will be connected to the Big Horse River Basin, and we can greatly expand our Big Horse River Mouth Outpost. Even if the Tiger Tribe wants to attack us, they will have to think twice."

Qingsui looked at him with admiration in her eyes and said, "Yan, your Fire Tribe has developed so fast. My father and the others admire you very much. They said that the Valley Tribe is already struggling to maintain 40,000 people, which is almost the limit for the Valley Tribe. But your Fire Tribe has more than 100,000 people and is still expanding and absorbing people. It's unbelievable."

Yan sighed and said, "Our Fire Tribe is forced into this situation. The Tiger Tribe has been watching us like wolves watching their prey. We've heard there are even more powerful tribes further north that could invade from the south at any time. Our Fire Tribe possesses so many technologies that they are easily coveted. Therefore, we must continuously strengthen our capabilities to protect our tribe and ensure that our people can live a peaceful life."

After listening, Qingsui remained silent for a moment, then said softly, "I understand. Leaders always have a lot to worry about."

The two walked for a while longer.

Yan turned to look at her, his eyes filled with curiosity, and asked, "Didn't the Tiger Tribe blockade the lower reaches of the Fish River? How did your Valley Tribe manage to buy such a large quantity of grain?"

Qingsui smiled, somewhat smugly, and said, "Although we were sanctioned by the Tiger Tribe, our Valley Tribe has been doing business for so many years, and we still have connections. The Tiger Tribe mainly blocked the east bank of the Fish River. The east bank is strictly controlled, and boats will be checked when they pass through. But the Tiger Tribe's influence is not as great on the west bank of the Fish River."

She stretched out her hand and gestured, saying, "On the west bank of the Fish River are the Bean Tribe, the Greater Qing Tribe, and the Willow Vine Tribe. These tribes have long-standing trade relations with our Valley Tribe. Our fleet can avoid the Tiger Tribe's patrol boats and buy the grain. Although it's a bit troublesome and will take a few more days to travel, it's better than not being able to buy any grain at all."

Yan listened and nodded thoughtfully, saying, "I see. The Bean Tribe is a semi-subordinate tribe of yours. As for the Greater Qing Tribe and the Willow Vine Tribe... I've heard of them. They seem to be tribes that mainly focus on agriculture?"

Qingsui nodded and said, "Yes, the Greater Qing Tribe and Willow Vine Tribe have a large population and grow a lot of crops. Every year they have surplus grain to sell. They used to have a lot of contact with the Tiger Tribe, but since the Tiger Tribe imposed sanctions on us, they have found that doing business with the Tiger Tribe is becoming increasingly disadvantageous. On the contrary, doing business with our Valley Tribe is more profitable, so now they are willing to sell grain to us."

Yan listened and secretly made a mental note of it. The two walked for a while longer, and the Fire Tribe's temporary camp was not far away. The campfire in the camp was particularly conspicuous in the night, and the warm yellow light danced in the wind.

Yan slowed his pace, and his voice became more serious as he said, "Qingsui, there's something I need to tell you."

Qingsui slowed her pace, turned around and looked at him, asking, "What is it?"

Yan said, "The Great Boulder Tribe is in a bad situation right now. They have suffered several defeats at the hands of the Wolf Tribe this year, losing many people and a lot of territory. They can barely hold on now, hiding in their lair and not daring to come out. It is estimated that their territory will be annexed by the Wolf Tribe before the end of the year."

He paused, his gaze turning serious, and said, "You know the methods of those Wolf Tribe people. If they want to gain a foothold in the Great Boulder Tribe's territory, they'll definitely need a backer, and the Tiger Tribe is their best choice. They'll definitely side with the Tiger Tribe and become Tiger Tribe lackeys."

"The Tiger Tribe can't spare the full strength to deal with us right now because they're still fighting for power and haven't reached a consensus. But they'll definitely send the Wolf Tribe and the Bear Tribe to deal with us first, to wear us down. Once we're exhausted, they'll strike. You're closer to the Wolf Tribe and the Bear Tribe, making you their primary target, so you need to be extra careful and prepare in advance."

Upon hearing this, Qingsui's smile vanished, replaced by solemnity and deep thought. She remained silent for a moment, then nodded and said, "Okay, I'll find an opportunity to talk to Father and ask him to send people to pay close attention to the situation there and take precautions in advance. If the Great Boulder Tribe is annexed by the Wolf Tribe, their next target will likely be our Valley Tribe."

Yan looked into her eyes, his voice softening slightly as he said, "Don't put too much pressure on yourself. Just focus on your own defenses and don't let the Wolf Tribe and Bear Tribe find any loopholes."

Qingsui nodded, her eyes showing a newfound determination. "I understand. I'll talk to Father properly."

Unbeknownst to them, the two had arrived at the entrance of the Fire Tribe's temporary camp. The camp was brightly lit with campfires, and the warriors sat around the fires, some chatting. Some saw Yan and Qingsui approaching, glanced up, and then looked down again, pretending not to see them.

Yan turned around and said to Qingsui, "Wait a moment, I'll go get the seasonings."

He strode into the camp, opened his tent, and took out a large package from the corner. It was a bulging bundle wrapped in burlap and tied in several knots. He carried the package out and handed it to Qingsui.

"This is all stuff I brought from the Fire Tribe; it should last you a while."

Qingsui took the package, hugged it to her chest, and said with a happy smile, "Great! With these seasonings, I can start researching new dishes. Once I've figured them out, I'll definitely cook them for you next time you come over."

Seeing her happy expression, Yan felt happy too, and said, "Okay, I'll wait."

Qingsui hugged the package to her arms, looked up at Yan, and asked, "Yan, how long are you going to stay here this time?"

"Three days," Yan said. "We'll leave after the grain is packed in three days."

Qingsui nodded, thought for a moment, and then said, "Then when you're done with your work, I'll come find you, and we can go for a walk together, maybe to the riverbank, or to the nearby woods."

Yan looked at her, nodded, and said, "Okay, I'll come find you when I'm done with my work."

Qingsui, clutching the bundle, took a step back, looked at Yan, and said with a faint smile, "Then I'll head back first. You should get some rest; we still need to pack grain tomorrow."

"Okay," Yan said, "Be careful on your way."

Qingsui nodded, turned and left. Her steps were light and quick. After walking for a while, she turned back and waved to Yan. Yan waved back. She smiled, then turned around and strode into the night. Yan stood at the camp gate, watching her figure grow smaller and smaller until it disappeared into the night.

He stood there, motionless for a long time. After a while, he took a deep breath, then turned around and walked into the camp.

Yan woke up early the next morning. The morning mist had not yet dissipated and was still lingering over the river, making it hazy. A few early birds hopped among the branches, and the dock was already bustling with activity.

The people of the Valley Tribe had already moved the grain out of the warehouse, stacking sacks one by one on the dock, piled up like small Little Mountain. The yellow sacks gleamed softly in the morning light. The warriors of the Fire Tribe had also begun their work; some were setting up gangplanks, some were tidying up the cabins, and some were counting supplies. Yan walked out of the camp, stretched, and yawned. He had slept well last night. Although the tent couldn't compare to his bed at home, he was exhausted after a long day and fell asleep as soon as he lay down, without a single dream.

He walked to the dock and saw Quyong and Feiyu directing the loading of grain. Quyong was wearing a gray linen robe with a rope around his waist and straw sandals on his feet. His hair was a little messy and his eyes were bloodshot, obviously he hadn't slept well, but he was full of energy and had a loud voice, directing the warriors of the Valley Tribe to carry bags of grain onto the boat.

"Handle with care! Don't break the bags! It'll be such a waste if the food spills! This way! Move them this way! Load the back of the bags into the hold first, leave room for the front! Don't push! Line up! Line up properly! One at a time!"

He noticed a soldier was moving too slowly, so he went over, patted the man on the shoulder, said something, and the man nodded and quickened his pace.

Yan walked over and greeted Quyong: "Chief Quyong, you've worked hard."

Quyong turned around, saw Yan, and smiled, saying, "Young Chief Yan, good morning! All the warriors from your Fire Tribe have arrived, so we'll start loading the provisions. The sooner we finish loading, the sooner you can set off."

Yan nodded and said, "Okay. I'll help too."

The sun rose higher and higher in the east, its light growing brighter and brighter. The morning mist gradually dissipated, the river surface became clearer, and the dock became increasingly lively. Soldiers on both sides carried and moved bags of grain from the dock to the boats, sweat dripping from their foreheads onto the ground and seeping into the wooden planks. No one complained of being tired, no one slacked off; everyone was focused on their work.

Yan worked all morning and was covered in sweat, but he felt very fulfilled. He didn't like being idle. When he had something to do, he felt energetic. During his lunch break, he sat on a Shitou by the dock, holding a dry biscuit in his hand, and slowly chewed it with water from his kettle.

Jia Li walked over and sat down next to him, holding a dry biscuit in his hand as well. "Young Chief, at this rate, we can finish packing in a little over two days, which is faster than expected."

Yan nodded and said, "The people from the Valley Tribe cooperated well, and we've gotten the hang of it. After a few more tries, everyone will know the most efficient and fastest way to do the work."

The two remained silent for a while, eating dry biscuits and drinking water, watching the boats come and go on the river. In the afternoon, Yan returned to the dock to continue working. The dock was still busy until evening, but the pace was slower, and everyone seemed a little tired.

Yan straightened up, rubbed his aching back, and let out a long breath. He looked at the grain pile on the dock; it was already half gone, and the rest would be loaded by noon the day after tomorrow.

Quyong walked over with a smile and said, "Young Master Yan, you did a great job today. If you work for another day or so, we should be able to finish loading everything."

Yan nodded and said, "Okay, we'll continue tomorrow."

He turned around and walked towards the temporary camp. The night breeze was cool, drying his sweat and relieving his fatigue. He thought to himself that once he finished loading the grain, he could go find Qingsui the day after tomorrow. With this thought, his steps became lighter.