The Wrath of the Unchained-Chapter 124 - A kingdom Whispers

The military escort led Tiriki through the bustling heart of Malindi, past towering buildings and merchant stalls alive with activity. Soldiers patrolled with quiet discipline, their armor gleaming under the midday sun. As they approached the administrative quarter, a deep hush fell over the square.

In the heart of the command center, King Lusweti stood hunched over a large table, examining a spread of maps and architectural blueprints. A soldier cleared his throat and saluted.

"Your Majesty," he said, "a man from the newly arrived merchant vessel claims to have a message from Prince Khisa. He says he’s Shadow Guard."

Lusweti’s head lifted at once. "Bring him in."

The heavy doors opened, and Tiriki stepped inside. His boots thudded softly against the polished stone floor. As soon as Lusweti saw him, he crossed the room in long strides and embraced him tightly.

"I am glad you’re alive," Lusweti said, voice low but heavy with relief. "Thank you for your bravery, Tiriki."

Just like that, Tiriki’s composure cracked. He hadn’t realized how utterly drained he was until now. Emotion surged through him—relief, exhaustion, pride—and his eyes burned with tears.

"Thank you, Your Majesty," he whispered, pulling back. "I live to serve. I bring urgent news from Prince Khisa."

He reached into his cloak and produced a sealed letter, its edges worn from the journey. Lusweti accepted it solemnly.

"The prince has devised a system to rescue and relocate enslaved people," Tiriki continued. "The merchant ship I traveled with carries some of the first freed slaves. Khisa wants them to be quietly integrated into our society. They can help build, farm, work—earn their place among us. When the war ends, those who wish to return home will be taken back."

"Are the merchants aware of this?" Lusweti asked, brows furrowed.

"No," Tiriki replied. "I told the navy to handle it like a covert purchase. The merchants believe it’s a black-market deal—discreet and profitable. So long as they get their coin, they’ll stay out of the way."

Lusweti rubbed his chin. "If they wander the city, they’ll see that slavery is outlawed here. That could spark suspicion."

"They’ve only docked recently. For now, they’re focused on trading goods. We must act fast. Two more ships are en route with rescued people—Akumu and Musyoka are aboard. We need the same discretion."

Lusweti nodded. "I’ll inform the navy. Anything else?"

"Khisa’s holding Assab together, but he’s tired. He’s playing a long game—dragging out the war, forcing the enemy to bleed resources. He’s asked for your help." Tiriki glanced at the sealed letter. "It’s all in there."

"Then rest, Tiriki," Lusweti said, placing a firm hand on his shoulder. "You’ve done enough for now."

As Tiriki bowed and exited, Lusweti opened the letter and read silently:

Dear Father,

It’s been a while since my last letter. Things are progressing here. I’ve created checkpoints and rescue routes, saving as many lives as we can. If you’re reading this, then at least one of my Shadows has reached you.

I’ve sent them on a dangerous mission—one I regret, but knew was necessary.

I am terrified I will fail everyone, I know you told me to take it easy, but everyday brings it’s own set if challenges.

This war is draining me, but I will not falter.

We will succeed and liberate all our people.

I have a plan: stretch this war, bleed their patience and resources until they turn their eyes elsewhere. But to succeed, I need your help.

The Portuguese control forts all along the coast. If we are to dominate our seas, we must cut off their influence—sink their ships, destroy their outposts. I know Nuri lacks manpower, but this is critical.

We must also expand alliances. Approach nearby kingdoms. Don’t force them into Nuri, but offer fair trade and protection in exchange for loyalty. No foreign deals. Share technology only when needed—and only with conditions. We must stay ahead.

Nuri is about to step onto the world stage. Help it shine. If we succeed we will create a dominating economic bloc, foreigners won’t be able to trade here without our approval, it will globally increase our influence. We must do it right.

Tiriki and the others won’t be coming to Assab any time soon ,so there’s no need for a reply. I will work on improving our communication.

I’ll send more freed slaves through Abyssinia. Two ships should reach you soon. A land delegation will follow—support them with supplies. Expect my next letter to carry the formal alliance seal. freёnovelkiss.com

Please take care of mother and my little sister.

Your son,

Khisa

Lusweti smiled, shaking his head. "This boy. Always biting off more than his father would dare."

He called for General Malik, who arrived swiftly, bowing deeply.

"We have a new merchant vessel at the docks," Lusweti said. "Contact the Merchant Association and begin standard processing. However, there are slaves hidden onboard—rescued ones. Quietly separate them, take them inland, and integrate them into society. Pay them. Treat them with dignity."

Malik blinked, confused. "But... I thought we outlawed the slave trade?"

"We did," Lusweti replied firmly. "We are not trading them—we’re liberating them. Khisa has created an underground system. These people will help us build the kingdom, and in return, we give them their freedom."

"And the people?" Malik asked hesitantly. "If they find out...?"

"They’ll misunderstand," Lusweti admitted. "That’s why we must be discreet. Tell only the necessary leadership. For now, assign them to new towns, help them choose their own representatives. Once the war ends, we will speak of it openly."

Malik nodded slowly, absorbing the weight of it. "Understood. And the Portuguese forts?"

"Prepare a small force to investigate their coastal positions. I want to know their strengths before we act. When the time is right, we strike. Quietly."

"Yes, Your Majesty. I’ll see it done."

As Malik departed, Lusweti remained at the map table, his fingers tracing the edges of a coastline.

"Nuri is growing," he murmured to himself, eyes shining with a mixture of hope and burden. "We must be ready."