Chapter 127 - The Merchants of Chains
The sea breeze carried the scent of salt and tension as a massive Portuguese carrack emerged on the horizon, its crimson cross flapping on the sails like a challenge. It cut through the waters of Malindi’s port, heading straight for the docks without waiting for approval.
Within minutes, three Nuri naval patrol ships surrounded it in formation. From one of the sleeker vessels, Captain Musa barked out through a long bronze speaking horn.
"Unidentified foreign ship, state your name, purpose, and origin. You are entering sovereign waters. Turn back or prepare for escort."
On the deck of the carrack, the emissaries exchanged amused glances. The lead diplomat, António Fernandes, stepped forward. Clean-shaven with calculating eyes and a robe too fine for this humidity, he raised his own voice in return.
"I am António Fernandes, emissary of His Majesty the King of Portugal. We come in peace, with royal seals and terms for trade with King Lusweti of Nuri. Lower your weapons. We are not here to barter with sailors."
The Nuri navy did not flinch. Their ships, smaller but faster and forged with layered hulls of seasoned timber and iron reinforcements, were not to be dismissed. Every sailor stood alert, hands on spears, arrows nocked in bows. Others with guns pointed at them.
Musa smiled coolly. "This is not Europe, Senhor Fernandes. You will dock under escort or not at all. We will sink you right here and we will be praised for it."
António sneered, but he complied. The ship was guided into port under the watch of two navy ships, Nuri flags billowing above them like silent sentinels.
As the emissaries descended the gangplank, the mood in the port soured. Townsfolk stared from the edges of the marketplace and rooftops, whispers rippling like wildfire.
"They have the same flags as the ones who took my brother."
"Is the king mad? Why let them back?"