Khisa stood at the edge of Malindi as the warm sea breeze teased his cloak. Behind him, the sounds of a city rebuilding echoed—hammering, laughter, vendors calling out in song. Ahead lay the road home. The time had come.
Zeuberi tightened her sash beside him. "Feels strange leaving the coast, doesn't it?"
Khisa nodded. "It's quiet now. Too quiet after everything. Like the sea is holding its breath."
Ndengu joined them, carrying his war club across his back. "Or maybe it's just letting us rest... for once."
The Shadow Guard, in lighter travel gear, lined up in formation. Civilians gathered to bid them farewell. Some came with fruit, others with cloth, a few just to watch. Children clung to their parents, whispering excitedly.
"There he is!" a boy shouted, pointing. "That's the prince! The one who fought like a leopard in the Kilwa war!"
"No," corrected a little girl, grinning with missing teeth. "He's the one who outsmarted the leopard!"
