The highlands of Abyssinia rolled out in golden majesty as Khisa and his retinue approached Gondar. They had been riding for four days straight, just enough time for laughter, reflection, and teasing.
The Shadow Guard who accompanied him missed the shift in Khisa's demeanor. He was quieter, more thoughtful, eyes often drifting toward the horizon as if already seeing the future unfold beyond it.
"So," Jelani said, riding closer with a sly grin. "Do we call her Princess or Sister-in-law now?"
Laughter rippled through the group. Even Khisa cracked a smile, though he tried to suppress it.
"She is still the princess of Abyssinia," he replied calmly. "But perhaps not for long."
Simba raised an eyebrow. "You sure you're ready for royal life? Silk robes and endless court dinners? We are still very young, we've spent all our time training and learning out in forests and mountains. We don't even know what Nuri looks like right now, we've only heard of its development and not much else."
