It was finally time to depart.
The port of Assab, once quiet and broken, was now alive with emotion. The Shadows were scattered across the docks, exchanging tight hugs and final words with the friends they had made. Many had trained side by side with the local navy, formed bonds over long patrols, late-night sparring, shared meals, and quiet moments beneath the stars.
To the people of Assab, the Shadow Guard were not just elite soldiers—they were legends come to life. And now, they were family.
A few of the younger female soldiers cried openly, watching their idols walk toward the ship. One tried to hide her tears behind a raised salute, but her voice broke as she spoke.
"We'll make you proud," she choked out. "We'll be the best soldiers the navy has ever seen. That's a promise."
Ndengu clapped a hand on her shoulder gently. "You already make us proud. Your strength is in your heart. Hold on to that."
