Chapter 92 - The Banner of Hope

Naliaka and Ndengu sunk into the crowd, their cloaks dusty and their feet aching. They had never been to this part of the coast before, and weren't even sure if the rumours that Nuri had taken it were true. Still, they kept their heads down and ears open.

The port city was alive—vibrant, noisy, bursting with movement. Buildings were being repaired, markets hummed with laughter and haggling, and soldiers strolled by on patrol, relaxed but vigilant.

The difference between here and Massawa was like night and day. Where Massawa had been drenched in misery—cages, chains, and rowdy pirates—Kilwa was freedom wrapped in stone and song. Merchants shared jokes with passersby, children played freely in the dust, and for a moment, the world felt untouched by war.

Naliaka's eyes shimmered as the atmosphere soaked into her.

"I wonder if we can bring this to Abyssinia?" she muttered.

"We will do our best," Ndengu replied quietly.

Then they saw it.