Chapter 102 - March of Fire and Lies
The main Abyssinian army began its march to the valley, led by General Mekonnen, towering atop his majestic black steed. His gleaming armor caught the sun, and the rhythmic thunder of marching feet echoed through the highlands like a coming storm.
Through the proud capital city of Gondar they moved, row after row of disciplined soldiers. Onlookers lined the streets—traders, elders, children, and priests—all pausing to witness history unfold. It had been years since they last saw such unity in their ranks.
At the steps of the grand palace, Emperor Gelawdewos stood tall, regal in his flowing royal garb. His nobles flanked him, adorned in silk and gold, but it was the Emperor’s presence that commanded attention. He raised his hand and addressed the masses:
"People of Abyssinia, your husbands, sons, and brothers are marching to war. For too long, the Adal have torn our villages apart and sold our kin like livestock. But I tell you now—no more. Mark this day, for we take back our kingdom from those who seek to break us! And to those who have mocked our suffering or sided with our enemies—we will drag all of them to hell!"
A roar erupted from the people of Gondar. The Emperor’s words, brimming with fire, rekindled the hope they had long buried beneath fear and loss. The war had scarred their lands and stolen their peace, but today they saw a path to reclaim it.
Beside the Emperor stood his brother, smiling on the outside, but his thoughts were a tangled storm.
How did he find out about the camps? he wondered bitterly. How the hell did he get those weapons?
Later that day, in the Grand Hall, the Emperor faced his nobles—an uneasy mix of loyalists, opportunists, and traitors in fine clothing. Murmurs buzzed like insects through the vast room.
"Your Majesty," one noble began, his face red with fury, "why has the army turned inward? General Mekonnen is needed at the front, not chasing shadows!"