Captured (a short story)

one

It has been months since the attack on Wakanda. So much has happened and transitioned in our city. Everything happened so quickly. From the death of our beloved king and protector T'challa ,to our princess being kidnapped, to the sudden attack on our city and the sad loss of our queen. So much emotional turmoil that we've faced as a country. No room to breathe and process. Especially, for the princess. I can't imagine how she is feeling. I could feel a cloud of anxiety creeping over our city while the throne was empty. With no one to lead and the princess being away to mourn, Wakanda felt just like any other city in the world. Finally, we were blessed with a new ruler over Wakanda who was once an ally to us.

The Great M'Baku, who fought along side us in the battle with killmonger and Thanos. He had stepped forward in ritual battle combat and won the throne of Wakanda. Our nation once again can stand while our new great king thrives on the throne. With these many opportunities, the nation of Wakanda advanced even further. The word was out that the Dora Milja now called "The Midnight Angels" were out looking for new recruits. This was a dream come true for me.

The sunlight was breaking through the night sky while the sun started to rise over the great Wakanda mountains. I sit by the river watching the beautiful view take place. I close my eyes feeling the beauty of the sun light up my face. I inhale deeply and exhale air while I thank my ancestors and the panther gods for another day. As I roam the city streets people emerge from their homes and set up for the day. Some are sweeping up the streets and others are still rebuilding from the attack.

"molweni ekuseni"(Good morning) I hear a soft voice say and I turn to see Abeba, a middle aged woman with a soft smile holding out a flower to me. I return her smile and take the flower from her. "molweni ekuseni, Abeba." I reply back and put the blue flower up to my nose to inhale the beautiful scent. Ahh, lillies. Such a sweet smell. One of the things that I love deeply about Wakanda are the attitudes of the people here. No matter what situation Wakanda was in, people still showed kindness and affection toward one another. As I walk down the dirt road coming in view of the market place, there's sounds of singing and happy "Molweni ekuseni" filled the air. I raise my eyebrows wondering what the buzz is. Suddenly, loud drums are heard from the palace and I gasp quickly while others turn their attention to the sky. The Royal Talon jet flys across the sky toward the palace and people cheer. "The princess has returned!" I hear someone cheer and I cover my mouth.

Princess Shuri has returned home?! I quickly run in the direction to training grounds. As I enter through the gate I bump into someone. " oh Nkosi yam uxolo kakhulu!" (Oh my gosh im so sorry!) I say looking up in shock

Okoye looks down at me and grins. "You're late."

"Did you hear the news? Princess Shuri is back!"I exclaim and she raises her eyebrows.

"My my, hey ehh even more of a reason for you to be focused on your training! Come! We must start now!" She says as she turns and starts walking in the direction of the training grounds. I sigh and follow her.

Okoye has been training me in secret to become a Dora Milja warrior. She says I am a natural warrior. I've gotten better over the months and have improved alot. She use to be harder on me but not as much now. She turns to face me and clasps her hands together.

"Recruiting starts tomorrow." She says calmly and my eyes widen. Already?! "Yes, I know so soon. But it is good you are ready." She puts her hand up. "Aneka is hard to please but I am sure, she will see the fire in you." I nod and bite down on my lip hard.

"We will train hard for a couple hours. I want you to show me what you've got. If i am pleased, then we are done." I smile excitedly as she gives me her spear. "Remember your spear is not your only weapon, use everything I taught you."