The gates of Lusimba opened at dawn, the mist still clinging to the earth like a veil. Trumpets sounded softly from the palace walls as a column of riders approached from the east. Their banners blue, gold and crimson, the colors of Nuri's crown — swayed against the rising sun.
King Lusweti rode at the head, his cloak lined with dark fur, his armor dusted from the long journey. Though his hair had begun to show streaks of grey, his posture remained proud and commanding. Behind him rode three of his ministers, Minister Amadi of Health, a calm man with a healer's poise; Minister Juma of Diplomacy, sharp-eyed and soft-spoken; and Minister Achieng of Trade, whose calculating mind was said to rival the merchants of the coasts.
Queen Nanjala and her attendants awaited them in the courtyard. The air was filled with the scent of fresh rain and flowering acacia trees. Nanjala stepped forward as the royal escort dismounted, her robe flowing in shades of ivory and blue.
