Chapter 9: Chapter 009: Leadership Election (Conclusion)
The elder was somewhat helpless in the face of Luo Chong's determination to become chief. Initially, including Luo Chong in the hunting team was an exception, but now the young man was aiming even higher. Yet, recalling Luo Chong's accomplishments from the previous day—the terror bird and the discovery of fish—the elder considered that perhaps it wouldn't be such a bad idea to have him as chief.
Thus, under the astonished gazes of the tribe, Luo Chong and Bigforce stepped into the center of the arena. Bigforce, towering over Luo Chong, looked down with a mix of confidence and disdain, while the spectators, including One-Ear and Beastfang, watched with a mix of sympathy and excitement, cheering Luo Chong on.
Bigforce squared off in a stance, legs apart and slightly crouched, waiting for Luo Chong to make his move. Luo Chong, without hesitation, charged at Bigforce. As Bigforce opened his mouth to scoff, Luo Chong leaped up, using Bigforce's thigh as a step, grabbed his hair with both hands, and with a powerful knee, struck Bigforce's chin.
The impact was swift and decisive. Before the onlookers could even grasp what had happened, Bigforce was on the ground, rolling in pain. The crowd was stunned into silence, their eyes wide with disbelief. Even the elder's hand trembled slightly as he watched the scene unfold.
Luo Chong, meanwhile, stood calmly, almost nonchalantly, as if to underline the ease with which he had won. To him, this was not just about proving physical superiority but also about applying tactical intelligence—why rely solely on brute strength when a strategic strike could yield a quicker victory?
The elder was visibly excited, sensing that Luo Chong could bring about significant changes within the tribe. His ability to innovate and bring new resources and methods could potentially lead to a stronger, more prosperous community.
Luo Chong's victory was clear, and his right to lead was now undeniable. The tribe's acceptance was instant; they did not see his youth as a drawback but rather as a symbol of potential and renewal. Luo Chong had already brought them miracles; now, they were ready to follow him into what they hoped would be a prosperous future.
Bigforce, still recovering and slightly resentful, attempted to challenge Luo Chong again. But before he could regain his footing, Luo Chong swiftly subdued him once more, demonstrating not only his fighting prowess but his readiness to enforce his leadership if challenged.
The elder, with a complex expression, picked up the remnants of the feathered headdress, now even more symbolic of the change in leadership. Luo Chong, however, showed no interest in the broken symbol, his disdain for the old ways clear. He had his own vision for leadership—a vision not defined by traditional symbols but by practical and strategic advancements.
As the new chief, Luo Chong wasted no time in reorganizing the tribe's activities. He delegated responsibilities clearly, ensuring everyone had a role that contributed to the tribe's welfare. He had plans for every member, from the pregnant women and children to the elders and the disabled, like the man who had longed to make a stone basin. Luo Chong decided to teach him pottery making, turning his dream into a practical skill that would benefit the entire tribe.
The tribe was buzzing with energy and curiosity about their new leader's next steps. Luo Chong's practical approach to leadership, his disregard for outdated symbols, and his focus on tangible benefits for the tribe had quickly earned him respect and loyalty.
Under Luo Chong's leadership, the tribe was poised for transformation, ready to face the challenges of their harsh world with new strategies and renewed hope. His leadership marked the dawn of a new era, one that promised to redefine their survival and prosperity.