Jack followed Garrak and his people through the dense, snow-covered forest, his mind racing. Every step felt like a test. The tribe moved with the ease of those who had known this land for generations, their furs blending with the landscape, their steps light and deliberate. Jack, on the other hand, stumbled occasionally, unused to the uneven terrain and the weight of his makeshift gear.
As they reached the outskirts of the tribe's settlement, Jack took in his surroundings. The village consisted of hide-covered shelters built against natural rock formations, with smoke rising from small fire pits. The air carried the scent of roasting meat and the distant sound of children laughing and playing. Despite the harshness of the environment, life thrived here.
Garrak led Jack to the center of the camp, where an elderly woman sat near the largest fire. She was draped in thick furs, her long silver hair braided with bones and beads. Her eyes, sharp and knowing, studied Jack with quiet intensity. Garrak spoke to her in their language, gesturing toward Jack, his voice calm but firm.
Jack stood still, feeling the weight of many eyes upon him. He knew that he was an outsider to them—an anomaly that had appeared out of nowhere. His survival so far had been remarkable, but to truly belong, he would have to prove himself.
The elder woman nodded slowly, then spoke a few words to Garrak. He turned back to Jack and gestured toward the fire. Jack hesitated before stepping forward, letting the warmth soak into his frozen skin.
A woman approached, offering him a small piece of cooked meat. Jack accepted it gratefully, taking a cautious bite. It was rich and fatty, better than anything he had eaten in weeks. As he chewed, the others continued to observe him, their expressions a mixture of curiosity and skepticism.
Then, one of the younger men—the same one who had eyed Jack with suspicion earlier—stepped forward, gripping his spear. He spoke harshly, his tone laced with challenge. The others murmured in agreement. Jack didn't understand the words, but the meaning was clear: they wanted proof of his strength, his usefulness.
Garrak said something in response, his voice carrying authority. The young man—who Jack now realized was likely a hunter—gritted his teeth but stepped back. However, the challenge wasn't dismissed. Jack could tell that his place in the tribe was far from secure.
That night, as he sat by the fire, Jack watched the people around him. They spoke in hushed voices, exchanging glances his way. He knew he had only taken the first step. To truly belong, he would need to earn their trust.
Tomorrow, he would have to prove his worth.