Chapter 168 - A Beacon Beyond Borders
The sky over the nearly complete capital of Nuri was clouded with morning haze, the sun just beginning to burn away the mist that draped the city’s wide avenues and stone plazas. Though the buildings still bore scaffolds and dust, the heart of Nuri beat strong—fresh bricks, humming workshops, children laughing in newly built courtyards.
In the highest hall of government—bare but proud—Khisa read the report again.
His hands were steady, but his eyes burned. Each name on the scroll was a brand. Each revelation a wound.
Lumingu’s coup was not just a Kongo affair. It was an infection—one that could rot the continent if left unchecked.
He rose.
"Summon the council," he said to the guard at the door. "Tell my father I need him at the high table."
By midday, the chamber was full.
Khisa stood at the center, scroll in hand. At the circular stone table sat King Lusweti, grim-faced but composed. General Simiyu sat to his right, arms folded, a scar across his temple still healing from his last campaign. Captain Shikuku of the Watchers leaned forward, hands clasped. To the left were Naliaka and Ndengu, representing Mkono wa Giza, their presence as quiet and imposing as the shadows they commanded.
Scholars, scribes, and several economic advisors ringed the edges of the chamber.
When Khisa finished reading the full Kongo report aloud, the room fell still.
"This," General Simiyu said at last, "is worse than we thought."