Back at the safehouse, tension still clung to the air like smoke.
No one spoke as they disembarked from the truck. The recruits dispersed, some exchanging glances, others avoiding eye contact entirely. Muzi stepped off last, his boots heavy with blood and dirt. Sphilile stayed close behind, limping slightly, her cap now hanging in her hand.
Thwala called out, "Get rest. You'll be debriefed tomorrow. No one leaves the compound."
Muzi didn't wait for Banele. He headed toward the room he'd been assigned — bare mattress, no windows, a single flickering bulb.
He sat down, rubbing his temples.
> [System Sync: Maphanga – Full Integration Mode Active.]
Maphanga's voice returned, clearer, deeper.
"Now you've tasted what this path demands."
Muzi leaned back. "Second kill. Doesn't feel better."
"It shouldn't."
A brief silence passed between them.
"But that girl lived. And the clan watches with pride. You've earned more than just respect, Muzi. Tonight, I give you your first rite."
A dull heat rose in Muzi's chest. His vision blurred again as symbols lit up before him.
> [New Skill Unlocked: Umnyama's Echo (Passive)]
"Your shadow lingers in your enemy's spirit. Those who fear you cannot hide."
> [Spiritual Path: Initiated. Shadowborn - Rank: Outer Vein Stage 1]
Muzi opened his eyes. The bulb above flickered again — brighter, like it had pulsed with him.
A knock broke the silence.
He stood, opened the door.
Sphilile stood there, holding a blanket and a plastic cup of water. "Banele said you'd probably forget to eat or sleep."
Muzi raised a brow. "And you listened?"
"I owe you," she said quietly. "And I don't forget debts."
She placed the things in his hands, turned to leave — then paused. "The guy you killed… He was about to end me."
"I know," Muzi said.
"And you didn't freeze."
"I did," Muzi admitted. "Inside. But something bigger moved."
Sphilile nodded slowly, then met his eyes. "Whatever that is… don't lose it."
She walked away before he could respond.
Behind him, Maphanga chuckled faintly.
"She sees more than most. Be careful, Muzi. Not every bond is a blessing… but the right one? It could shift the heavens."
Muzi lay down, the blanket still wrapped in his arms. For the first time in weeks, sleep came easier.
Tomorrow, the climb would continue.