Chapter 96 - Fire on the Horizon
A loud series of horns and drums sounded at the crack of dawn at the Assab Port.
It only meant one thing—enemies spotted at sea, and in large numbers.
Khisa and Tesfaye burst out of their tents, adrenaline already surging. The training kicked in. No panic. Just action. They immediately began issuing orders. This drill had been run countless times. Everyone knew their positions: archers, gunmen, sailors.
"Get on the ships! Move out! You have your orders. Those who stay, protect the port with your lives!" Khisa shouted.
The soldiers roared in response.
Soldiers erupted into action. Crates of gunpowder and bullets were flung open. Rifles were handed out, swords sheathed at hips, and shields slung over backs. Shouts echoed as men and women scrambled into disciplined formations. In moments, the once quiet port became a hive of focused fury.
"Musimbi ! Simba ! Faizah! Stay behind and protect the princess. You’re in command of the port. Hold the line until we return!"
"Tesfaye!" he turned, eyes sharp. "Get the Prince. He’s coming with us."
The port, asleep just moments ago, was now a hive of energy. Men hauling barrels of gunpowder to the ships, others lining up in squads. Archers ran uphill to man the cliffs. Drummers beat out rhythms of war.
"Prince Khisa!" came a breathless voice. Princess Azenet, her face pale with worry, clutched her robe.
"What is happening?" she asked.