Chapter 188 - 129: The Final Barrier—Aquileia_2
Cleobrotas sat in silence for a moment, then said, "But if that Maximus harbors ill intentions, by doing this we’re letting a beast into our home! You know he has 16,000 soldiers under him!"
"Of course, I am well aware of the risks, but if things go that way, our tribe will fall a few days earlier at most! However, if things turn out as I hope, then our tribe will have a chance for revival!" Acoupaigos’s murky eyes gleamed: "We must put our trust in Karsipengpas. He has roamed the world for many years, and I’ve heard he’s well-regarded among pirates. The pirate ships he commanded hardly ever encountered danger, and his men never engaged in disputes. It shows he has a good eye for people and knows how to avoid danger. I believe this time he won’t be wrong either!"
"Since the Great Chief has thought it through, I have no further objections," Cleobrotas replied.
Acoupaigos became cheerful: "Now that you agree, the other elders won’t oppose it either. Tomorrow, I’ll call a tribal meeting. With me, you, and Karsipengpas supporting it, this land purchase proposal will surely get approved. By then, I want you to go meet this Maximus first—"
Acoupaigos gently patted Cleobrotas’s arm and said gravely, "Take a good look at him and his men. If you find him trustworthy, you can make an agreement with him there, and then lead them to our Alde; if you sense danger, pretend you need my further consent, hurry back, and we’ll block the mountain path, avoiding any contact with him!"
Cleobrotas suddenly felt immense pressure, hesitating as he intended to refuse.
But Acoupaigos, with a glass of wine in hand, looked earnestly at his friend and said, "Kleo, we’ve grown up together, supporting each other to where we are now. You’re like a brother to me. Whether here or on the battlefield, I’ve always trusted you the most. This time, I hope you can shoulder this burden and help me make this crucial decision! Even if we make a mistake, it’s no big deal. So many tribes have perished, the Alde will just be another!"
Inspired by his words, Cleobrotas took the wine glass and drank it in one gulp.
.....................