Chapter 20 - 19
The goblins dragged the tied-up kobolds as they made their way back toward the goblin village. For now, Lumberling let them be. His earlier talk of loyalty had been a scare tactic—meant only to suppress rebellion. In time, he believed they would pledge themselves to him willingly. Patience would be his ally.
Takkar, the elite kobold Lumberling had enslaved, led them to the kobold den hidden in the caves. Inside, they found twenty-six children, eighteen women, twelve elders, and ten remaining guards. When the kobolds saw Lumberling holding the severed head of their former chief, a wave of emotion swept through them—grief, rage, and above all, fear.
Lumberling left Skitz in charge, assigning him and the goblins to monitor the situation. He returned alone to the goblin village, dead tired, and collapsed into a deep sleep that lasted the entire day.
The next morning, Lumberling visited the kobold den again.
"Kuekeekee..." Kobolds screeched uneasily as they passed the goblin guards posted near their homes. Tension lingered, but so far, no conflict had erupted.
Lumberling had tasked Skitz and the goblins with maintaining order. Integration would be slow, but necessary.
"Skitz, bring me Takkar."
A moment later, the elite kobold appeared, translating through Skitz.
"What do you wish of me, Master?" Skitz relayed.
"Tell me about your tribe. Is there a clear hierarchy or structure?"
"Yes, my Lord. Male kobolds serve as hunters, diggers, and guards. The females are gatherers. The elders guide the tribe and make important decisions."