11:32 PM, August 13, 1300…
Kyle has been asleep for over two hours. We, however, have not. I (Veritas) and Zihao are lying on a large bed next to Kyle's. To call it a bed might be an exaggeration. Most of us would imagine a wooden bed with legs, raised off the ground, covered with a mattress, and layered with thick blankets to keep warm in winter or air conditioning in summer. Yet, in this medieval world, there are no mattresses or blankets—just a layer of straw wrapped in cloth, one serving as a blanket, the other as a mattress. The cloth is thick enough to prevent the straw from causing itchiness for both Zihao and me, but it is nowhere near as comfortable as the luxuries we had back on Earth.
"Can't sleep? Me neither. Since we're up, why don't we chat a bit?" Zihao says, his eyes still gazing at the moon. It's full tonight, casting a pale yellow light—neither cheerful nor sorrowful, neither angry nor mournful—just there, much like his expression.
"Alright," I reply, almost without thinking.
"Have you noticed that he's been producing chemical weapons?" Zihao continues, still looking at the moon, his voice calm.
"Chemical weapons?" I frown. "In this world of magic? Does he have any reason for this?"
"Of course..." Zihao smiles slightly. "Even though it's a wasteful tactic, it's a last resort to deal with the Sapphic Cult, our main enemy, should I fail in negotiating peace with their leader this Sunday, the 15th of August—just two days away..."
Under the pale moonlight, Zihao and I step out of the quiet room. Kyle remains sound asleep, completely unaware of the heavy thoughts burdening both of us. We walk away from the small house, blending into the darkness of the forest. The moonlight filters through the trees, casting a shimmering glow on the branches and leaves, as if illuminating a path we haven't yet decided to take. Beneath my feet, the ground feels damp, and the cold mist of the night rises, enveloping me like invisible hands.
Zihao breaks the silence, "We are approaching the most dangerous moment, Veritas. If the negotiations fail, violence and bloodshed will be the only thing awaiting us."
His words weigh heavily on my heart. I glance over at him, only to see his gaze fixed on the moon. The silver light covers his face, making him look like a perfectly sculpted statue, though beneath the surface lie layers of thoughts I cannot touch. His calmness is unsettling, especially when faced with decisions I can't even fathom.
"Chemical weapons," I whisper, Zihao's words echoing in my mind. "Do you really think that's the only option?"
Zihao turns to look at me, his deep eyes unmoving. "Yes." His reply is brief but resolute. We continue walking in silence, only the soft rustling of the leaves underfoot and the wind brushing through the trees filling the space between us.
In the distance, I see a flicker of red light, like a flame in the night. I glance up and recognize them as the red fireflies—strange creatures of this magical world. Their glow is unlike the greenish light of Earth's fireflies. Instead, they emit a blood-red hue, casting a mysterious and eerie shadow over the forest. I watch the tiny creatures flit through the air, their light flashing briefly before disappearing, like fleeting memories I cannot grasp.
Zihao suddenly stops and turns to me. "You know, back on Earth, I never thought I would face decisions like these. I used to be someone who believed in the power of words and persuasion." He laughs lightly, but there's a bitterness in his tone that I can't ignore.
"What did you do back then?" I ask, curious. Zihao has always been an enigma to me. Despite everything we've gone through, I still don't fully understand him.
Zihao pauses, seemingly considering his response. Eventually, he speaks, his voice lowering as if recalling a distant, faded past. "I helped my parents organize documents, sometimes analyzing them together. Occasionally, I would attend negotiation meetings with them. Back then, I truly believed that words were the most powerful weapon. But here... this world is different. Here, there are things that go beyond ordinary logic. And to survive, sometimes you have to choose paths you once despised."
I feel a deep sadness in his words. Zihao isn't like anyone I knew back on Earth—he's always in control of every situation, confident in his ability to negotiate. But now, he faces a harsh reality where words no longer hold the power to resolve conflicts.
Silence envelops us again. I can feel the weight of the atmosphere around us, as if every step we take is laden with unspoken thoughts. The moonlight still filters through, shining on the dense foliage above, brushing across the tall grass. Occasionally, we encounter glowing butterflies. Their wings emit a soft light like gemstones, illuminating a corner of the forest.
I watch these creatures, feeling a sense of relief. But soon, a soft noise from ahead pulls me back to the present. "There's something up ahead," I whisper, eyes sharp as I observe.
"Don't worry. It's just the Kalmicut monkeys," Zihao replies, his voice calm, showing no sign of concern. "They're intelligent, know how to build homes, and use stone tools."
"Monkeys that can build houses?" I exclaim, surprised.
Zihao nods. "Yes. They're a specially evolved species. Here, they live in small communities with clear hierarchies. They even know how to craft primitive tools. But don't worry, they won't bother us as long as we don't trespass on their territory."
I watch the Kalmicut monkeys as they swiftly move through the night, darting between the trees. Their chattering echoes around us, but it doesn't feel threatening. In fact, I find myself more curious than afraid.
We continue deeper into the forest. Beneath my feet, patches of glowing Sentinel mushrooms light up like small flames, their soft blue light scattering across the ground, creating a sparkling path. The blue glow dances beneath us, as if guiding us through the dark.
"Back on Earth, where did you think you'd be at this moment?" Zihao suddenly asks, breaking the long silence.
I look down at the ground, pondering for a moment. "Me? I never thought I'd end up in a world like this. Back on Earth, I just wanted a normal life, without wars or political schemes. But then... everything changed."
Zihao nods quietly, saying nothing more. We continue walking, but this time, our steps feel heavier. What we've seen, what we've experienced, seems to weigh on each of us. I sense it in every step we take in this forest. It carries an eerie silence, yet holds memories and thoughts we cannot avoid.
The moon continues to light our path, as the mysterious creatures of the forest pass by like silent witnesses to our endless conversation.
"You should return to Aldo as soon as possible tomorrow. Oh, and don't forget Kyle—no, I mean *Helene* now. Don't ask why. It's all for safety," Zihao says, pausing to gaze at the moon.
I say nothing, slowly sitting down, nodding quietly as a red firefly flutters near me, its glowing tail gently swaying...
August 14, 1300...
Zihao walks slowly along the narrow dirt path, with the silver moonlight casting a soft, ethereal glow over everything. Beside him, a local village woman is leading the way. Her bare feet glide effortlessly over the ground without making a sound, as if she is a part of the forest itself. With her dark skin, tall and slender frame characteristic of the Noir people, she exudes strength and confidence, unlike anyone Zihao has ever met.
Zihao asks few questions, partly because he does not want to disturb the quiet of the night, and partly because he knows that the woman will speak when necessary. She has introduced herself as Kalia, a daughter of the Noir land—a place whose social system and culture Zihao has yet to fully comprehend.
They move deeper into the forest, surrounded by towering ancient trees with thick, leafy canopies. Glowing butterflies flutter in the air, their wings emitting soft blue light, creating delicate halos as they pass by. Kalia gently raises her hand, and a butterfly lands on her palm. She turns her hand so that Zihao can see the fragile wings more clearly.
"These are creatures symbolizing purity and light," Kalia says, her voice gentle yet firm. "The glowing butterflies often appear during our festivals, when we celebrate important events or honor someone in our community."
Zihao nods, continuing to listen. He senses the deep connection these people have with the natural world around them, a connection rarely found in the modern world he once knew. The forest is not just a place to live but a part of their very soul.
As they venture further into the woods, Kalia stops by the base of a large tree. She sits down on a small stone nearby and gestures for Zihao to sit beside her.
"You have arrived at the right time," she begins, her gaze drifting into the depths of the forest. "Noir is a special land, not only because of its natural beauty but also because of how we live and survive in a world that, as you can see, can be harsh."
Zihao sits quietly, absorbing her words as they resonate through the stillness.
"Our social structure is very different from the places you might know. We follow a matriarchal system, where women, especially the Matriarchs, hold leadership in all areas."
She pauses, her eyes shimmering in the moonlight as she turns to look at Zihao. "Do you understand what a matriarchal system is?"
Zihao frowns slightly. "I know a little, but not in detail. How do your Matriarchs manage to lead the entire society?"
Kalia smiles, a knowing look in her eyes. "Our Matriarchs are the strongest women, not only physically but also mentally and intellectually. They are the ones who inherit the power and responsibility of leadership, passed down through generations. Every important decision—from resource distribution to resolving disputes between clans—is made by them."
Zihao nods, though many questions remain unanswered. "And what about others, like the men? What roles do they play in this society?"
Kalia's voice lowers slightly, but the firmness in her tone remains. "Men, while they do not hold leadership roles, play a crucial part in protecting and ensuring the safety of the community. We respect their bravery and strength, especially during difficult times. They are our warriors, our hunters who sustain the community, but they do not interfere with governance or political decisions."
She continues, describing in detail how society is structured. Matriarchs—women who lead the clans—hold the highest authority in both political and religious spheres. They not only manage the community but also guide its spiritual direction, ensuring harmony among members and maintaining a connection with their ancestors.
Kalia speaks about the Elders—older women who, though no longer Matriarchs, still wield significant influence due to their wisdom and experience. They are the keepers of history, tradition, and the culture of the Noir people, ensuring that core values are not lost across generations.
Suddenly, the soft sound of footsteps echoes from afar, causing Kalia to stop talking, her eyes turning toward the source of the noise. Zihao also turns his head and sees a group of men approaching. They are Warriors, tall and imposing, with a strong and sharp presence. Each one is dressed in light armor, carrying bows and swords at their sides.
Kalia smiles and explains, "These are our warriors, always ready to protect the community from external threats. Although they do not hold political power, their role is immensely important."
The group of warriors stops as they approach, bowing slightly in respect to Kalia. One of them, the tallest with piercing eyes, steps forward and speaks to her in a language Zihao does not understand.
Kalia nods, then turns to Zihao. "They just want to know if we need any assistance."
Zihao shakes his head with a small smile. "Thank you, but we're fine."
After the warriors leave, Kalia continues explaining the clear division within their society. Artisans and Healers are the pillars of daily life. They not only craft intricate goods but also heal the sick using traditional methods and rare herbs from the forest.
"They may not hold the power of the Matriarchs, but they are still highly respected. No one in the community could survive without the things they create, from medicines to the art used in important rituals," Kalia explains.
She describes necklaces made of precious stones and seashells, and garments woven by hand with intricate patterns—each showcasing the artisans' skill and precision. Meanwhile, the healers use ancient knowledge to care for the health of the community, from healing wounds to treating chronic illnesses.
When Kalia speaks of Youth and Apprentices, the younger members of the community, Zihao begins to understand the balance and harmony within their social system. Each group has its role, but all work together to maintain stability and growth.
"The young are taught by the Elders and the artisans," Kalia continues, her voice tinged with pride. "We don't just teach them skills, but also pass down core values—respect, gratitude, and unity."
The conversation lasts until the moonlight begins to fade, and the dawn breaks through the forest. But instead of feeling exhausted, Zihao realizes he has learned so much from Kalia about the culture and social system of Noir. A deep sense of respect rises within him—not only for Kalia but for her entire people, who live in harmony with nature and understand how to maintain stability in their society.
As daylight fills the Noir forest, they pass through another area where clusters of Sentinel mushrooms emit a soft glow under the morning sun. These pale blue mushrooms, growing in groups, cast a gentle light like tiny lamps illuminating the path ahead.
"We have journeyed through much tonight," Zihao says, his eyes meeting Kalia's, filled with admiration. "I now understand more about this world and how your people maintain stability in your society. Thank you for sharing all of this with me."
Kalia smiles, her expression as radiant as the sunrise. "We live together based on trust and respect. You will soon see that in our diversity, we always maintain unity."
Zihao nods, feeling that Kalia's words are not just empty promises but a reality he has witnessed throughout the night. Noir, with its mystical creatures and unique social structure, has left a deep impression on him—a world so different yet filled with beauty and wisdom.
As the soft light of dawn spreads through the Noir forest, Kalia and Zihao continue their journey. The ground beneath their feet is damp from the long night, and the rustling of leaves echoes with each step. The gentle warmth of the rising sun filters through the towering trees, casting shimmering beams of light along the path. The crisp morning air carries a hint of chill, though it grows warmer as the sun climbs higher. Birds sing throughout the forest, blending with the soft footsteps of the two travelers.
Zihao listens intently as Kalia continues sharing new insights into the culture and life of the Noir people. They had spent the previous night talking under the moon, and now, as daylight spreads, Zihao knows that what lies ahead will reveal even more about this enigmatic land.
"Can you smell the fragrance of the trees and flowers?" Kalia speaks, breaking the long silence. She smiles lightly, her eyes shining in the morning light. "This is one of the things I always love about Noir—the perfect harmony between people and nature."
Zihao nods, taking a deep breath to appreciate the sweet scent of the blooming flowers lining the path. They walk past clusters of small purple flowers, each exuding a soft fragrance, with hints of honey and fresh grass. Above them, glowing butterflies—much like the night before—continue to flutter, their wings sparkling in the sunlight.
"We are approaching the main town of this region," Kalia says as they cross a small wooden bridge. Below, a crystal-clear stream flows, its surface shimmering with the morning sun. "There, you'll see how people live, from what they wear, how they adorn themselves, to how they interact with their surroundings."
As they venture deeper into the forest, Zihao begins to see the silhouettes of houses in the distance. Small homes made of stone and wood come into view, with palm-leaf thatched roofs that appear simple yet sturdy, perfectly integrated with the natural environment. The dirt path leading into the town is lined with lush green grass, and on either side, fruit trees grow in abundance.
Upon entering the town, Zihao cannot help but notice the vibrant colors of the clothes worn by the local people. Long dresses and tunics are hand-embroidered with intricate patterns, using fabrics like cotton and silk, just as Kalia had described. Many women wear **Kizuri** dresses—long gowns woven from silk, decorated with delicate embroidery. Shades of green and blue stand out, symbolizing growth and peace within the community.
Kalia points to a woman standing nearby, dressed in a **Zawadi** gown in blue, adorned with striking gold patterns. "That is a typical example of someone of high status in our community. The gold and blue designs are not only beautiful but also signify the prosperity and achievements of the wearer."
Zihao observes closely, admiring how clothing here is not merely attire but a reflection of culture and social standing. The townspeople, regardless of their role, seem proud to express themselves through their garments and jewelry.
As they move further into the central market, Zihao is drawn to the lively sounds of vendors and buyers. The stalls display an array of goods, from fresh produce to exquisite handcrafted items. Local artisans sit beside woven mats, their hands skillfully weaving intricate designs into brightly colored fabrics. **Kali** necklaces made from precious stones and seashells glisten under the sunlight, drawing the attention of passersby.
Kalia stops by an artisan and introduces Zihao. "This is Rina, one of the finest jewelry makers in Noir. The necklaces she creates are not just for beauty; they also carry meanings of power and status."
Rina looks up with a friendly smile. "Would you like to try one?" she asks, carefully holding up a large necklace adorned with bright blue and golden stones. "This one symbolizes leadership and courage."
Zihao politely declines but cannot take his eyes off the necklace's delicate beauty. He senses that every item here holds a story, a deep connection to the culture of the Noir people.
Leaving the market, Kalia leads Zihao toward a large building in the town's center. This is where the **Matriarchs** and **Elders** gather to discuss community matters. "Here," Kalia explains, "all major decisions of Noir are made. The Matriarchs sit together to deliberate, and the Elders offer advice based on their wisdom and experience."
Outside the building, a group of elderly women sit in conversation. Each is dressed in clothing with distinctive patterns, clearly reflecting their high status in society. They wear **Jabari** necklaces and bracelets, symbols of wisdom and personal achievement.
"These women," Kalia whispers, "are the Elders. They no longer serve as Matriarchs, but they still hold significant influence over every major decision in the community."
One of the Elders looks up, her eyes sharp and bright. She nods slightly at Kalia, and Zihao senses the respect in Kalia's gaze toward her.
Beside the Elders, a group of young people gather, listening to the Elders tell stories. Kalia explains, "We pass down our stories across generations. These stories are not just for entertainment but carry valuable lessons in ethics and ways of life."
Zihao pauses to listen. An Elder is telling the story of **Ngoma ya simba na kicheko**—the tale of a lion and the importance of laughter and humility. The young people around them listen intently, their eyes bright with interest, while the Elder's words echo through the air.
"This is an essential part of our culture," Kalia continues. "Fairy tales and myths like these teach us the values of humility, courage, and careful decision-making."
Additionally, proverbs are widely used in everyday life. Zihao notices how people converse with short, meaningful phrases. A young man advises a child with the saying **Kuhangaika hakukumi**—"Hard work is never wasted."
They continue walking through the narrow streets of the town, where wooden and stone houses retain their rustic simplicity. On some of the house walls, Zihao sees ancient symbols and hand-drawn designs. "These symbols are part of our traditional writing system," Kalia explains. "Before we adopted the Latin alphabet for education, we used these symbols to record stories and important events."
"What do they mean?" Zihao asks, pointing to a spiral symbol on the wall.
"This represents beginnings and endings," Kalia responds. "It is often used in ceremonies to mark significant life moments, such as births, marriages, or deaths."
Zihao is moved by the profound meaning in every aspect of Noir's culture. Each symbol, each action, and every story contains layers of significance that only those within the community can fully comprehend.
As dusk falls, the last rays of the day illuminate the forest surrounding the town, painting the sky in golden hues. Zihao and Kalia stop by a small river. The scene is tranquil, with only the sound of the flowing water and the rustling leaves in the breeze. A few red fireflies appear, their glowing light standing out in the dim atmosphere, creating a sense of mystery and wonder.
"What have you seen in Noir?" Kalia asks, her voice soft but filled with curiosity.
Zihao remains silent for a moment, watching the red lights flicker around them. "I have seen a community that not only lives but truly harmonizes with each other and nature. Everything here—from the way people dress to the way they speak—carries deep values. This is not just a society, but a vibrant, meaningful culture."
Kalia smiles, her eyes gleaming with pride. "You have understood a part of it. Noir is a place where we value not only our people but also the world around us. We believe everything is interconnected, and that gives us strength."
Zihao nods, feeling a deep sense of peace. The world of Noir, with its mystical creatures, unique matriarchal social structure, and perfect harmony between people and nature, has left a lasting impression on him.
The soft morning light filters through the leaves, casting a gentle glow on the uneven path that Kalia and Zihao are walking along. After a long morning of travel, they finally near the capital of Noir, where stone buildings begin to emerge from behind the trees. The air here feels fresher, carrying the faint scent of foliage and the aroma of grilled food from roadside stalls, a sign that they are approaching the bustling life of the city.
Kalia stops in front of a small inn made of stone and wood, with a roof thatched with dried palm leaves, a typical architectural feature of Noir. She turns to Zihao with a smile. "We'll rest here tonight. This is where travelers like us usually stop before heading further into the capital."
The inn exudes a simple but cozy atmosphere. The sturdy stone walls are decorated with carvings depicting the daily life of the Noir people. Each image is steeped in tradition and local culture. Zihao sees depictions of **Kiburi** houses—large family homes with ample space to house three generations together. These homes have wide courtyards where family members can gather, symbolizing the community's emphasis on family unity and respect.
The innkeeper is an elderly woman with silver hair neatly braided into small plaits, adorned with pearl beads. She greets Kalia and Zihao with a warm smile, welcoming them in the **Kishauri** language of Noir. "Mambo vipi?" she asks in a friendly tone.
Kalia responds with a similar greeting, introducing Zihao as a friend from afar. The elderly woman smiles and leads them to their room, a simple yet cozy space with wooden beds and rough linen sheets. The large window allows the morning light to flood in, giving the room a spacious, peaceful feel.
After putting away his belongings, Zihao steps out onto the porch. His eyes fall upon the capital city now emerging in the distance, with its tall stone buildings rising from the lush green forests. Every layer of Noir's architecture reflects the harmony between nature and human life, with no violent disruption of the natural landscape.
Kalia joins him on the porch, her gaze also fixed on the scene before them. "You will find that the capital of Noir is quite special," she says softly. "Everything here is built not only to fit the environment but to reflect our core values—unity, tradition, and reverence for our ancestors."
They decide to spend the afternoon exploring the city. As they leave the inn and walk along the stone-paved streets, they quickly blend into the crowd of people busy shopping and chatting. Everyone wears traditional clothing with meticulous embroidery, each pattern telling a unique story about the wearer's family, status, and achievements
.
An elderly woman sits in front of her home, holding a large embroidery frame. She is stitching intricate patterns onto a long blue gown, a **Zawadi** dress worn for significant celebrations. Kalia pauses to chat with her about her embroidery work. The woman smiles, her eyes filled with pride in her craft.
"All the clothing we wear carries deep meaning," Kalia explains as they continue walking. "Each dress, each scarf is woven with the values of tradition and family history. It is not just clothing but identity."
They pass through a large market in the city center. The market buzzes with lively voices and the clamor of vendors calling out to customers. Goods range from handcrafted items to fresh produce, all reflecting the region's richness and diversity.
Zihao's attention is caught by stalls selling **ugali** and **nyama choma**—traditional dishes of Noir. The tantalizing smell of grilled meat from the nyama choma stalls mingles with the rich aroma of local spices. Thick cuts of goat and beef, carefully marinated and grilled to perfection, sizzle and smoke on the open grills. The people of Noir often gather at such roadside eateries, sharing food and conversation after long days of work.
Kalia buys a portion of ugali served with **sukuma wiki** and nyama choma for Zihao. "You should try this," she says, her eyes sparkling with a hint of mischief. "This is a dish that anyone visiting Noir must taste at least once."
Zihao holds the meal in his hands, savoring the rich, sweet flavor of the *ugali* combined with the robust taste of *sukuma wiki*, a dish of collard greens sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and chili. The spicy heat of the *nyama choma* awakens his palate, offering a simple yet deeply enticing flavor, much like the life here—humble but full of depth and unforgettable.
As they continue moving through other parts of the city, they arrive at a vast square. In the center stands the *Mukuru Shrine*, an ancient temple built from stone, with walls adorned with carvings of gods and ancestors. Kalia pauses in front of the temple, her eyes reflecting reverence.
"This is where we honor the gods and our ancestors," she says, her voice gentle but filled with respect. "Each family has its own shrine to venerate their ancestors, but the *Mukuru Shrine* is the largest, where all the people in the city come on major holidays."
They step inside the temple, where the atmosphere is filled with solemnity. Within are intricately carved stone statues depicting gods and important historical figures of Noir. Large candles flicker, casting a warm golden glow that reflects off the cold stone walls, creating a sacred and mystical space.
Zihao feels himself drawn into the world of Noir, where every action, every piece of architecture, and every dish carries profound cultural significance. Noir is not merely a place to live, but a space of ancestral stories, rituals, and customs passed down through generations.
As the sun sets, they return to the inn, where warm lights have been lit. The two sit on the porch, watching red fireflies dance in the night sky. Their brilliant red glow creates an enchanting scene, like stars twinkling on the dark horizon.
"I feel like I've learned so much in just one day," Zihao says, his eyes following the fireflies. "Everything here carries a story, from the houses to the food. This isn't just a city; it's a world of traditions and memories."
Kalia smiles, her eyes gleaming with pride. "That is Noir. We live not just in the present but with the past, carrying the values passed down by our ancestors."
The afternoon slowly fades over the city of Noir, with the golden-orange hues of the sunset gently touching the stone and wooden houses. Kalia and Zihao are preparing to participate in one of the most sacred ceremonies of this land: the *Mugambo* festival, a day dedicated to honoring the ancestors. The atmosphere is filled with solemnity yet lively energy as the people of the city begin to gather in the central square, where the celebration will take place.
As they step out of the inn, Zihao feels the shift in the air. The cobblestone streets, usually bustling with vendors and tourists during the day, now seem to fall silent in the sacredness of the evening. Families walk slowly, dressed in traditional attire, carrying small totems and amulets—finely carved symbols representing the protection of ancestors and gods.
Kalia, wearing a long blue gown embroidered with intricate patterns, leads Zihao through tree-lined streets until they stop in front of a small house. An elderly artisan sits by a fire, carefully carving a piece of wood with a fine knife. He is crafting new amulets for the ceremony.
"This is Amadi," Kalia introduces. "He is one of the finest artisans in creating amulets and totems. Each of his works carries a story."
Amadi looks up, a gentle smile appearing on his aged face. "Mugambo is the day we honor those who came before us," he says, his hands continuing their precise work. "These amulets are not just symbols; they are a way for us to connect with the spirits of our ancestors."
Zihao picks up one of the amulets, feeling the intricate carvings with his fingers. Every detail seems to tell a special story of a connection to gods and ancestors. Amadi adds, "During *Mugambo*, each family brings their totems or amulets, representing their lineage and ancestors. Together, we pray and seek guidance from those who came before."
The two leave Amadi's house and continue toward the square, where the festive atmosphere has already begun to fill the air. The rhythmic beating of drums echoes in the background, accompanied by the singing of the elders, who are highly respected in the community. Ancient songs rise, retelling stories of ancestors, of the struggles to build the Noir culture and society.
Zihao listens intently, each melody pulling him into the distant past, to a time when the first settlers of Noir had to battle the forces of nature to survive. He realizes that, for the Noir people, each ceremony is not just a time for remembrance but also an affirmation of family values, tradition, and culture.
Kalia points ahead, where a group of young children is preparing for the *rites of passage*—a ceremony marking the transition from adolescence to adulthood. The boys and girls, dressed in simple yet elegant attire, stand solemnly before the elders, ready to undertake their first trials.
"Every year in December, we hold a ceremony marking this transition," Kalia explains. "These children will face physical, intellectual, and patience tests to prove they are ready for their new roles in the community. After the ceremony, there will be celebrations and dances in honor of their growth."
Zihao watches the children, sensing their determination and eagerness in their eyes. He recalls similar rites in many cultures he has heard of, but in Noir, everything seems to have its unique touch—the inseparable connection to ancestors and gods.
As night falls, the central square becomes illuminated by torchlight surrounding the space. The music grows stronger, and the townspeople begin to gather to participate in the main ritual of the *Mugambo*—the honoring and invocation of the ancestors. The elders, dressed in feathered headdresses and formal attire, lead the crowd in traditional dances while prayers are recited.
"We call this ceremony *Mugambo*, which means 'the echo of the ancestors,'" Kalia explains as they join the procession. "We believe that the ancestors are always watching over us, guiding us through every step of life. Tonight, we offer them our gratitude and ask for their guidance for the future."
Zihao looks up at the night sky, where the stars shine brightly, mingling with the flickering flames of the torches. In that moment, he feels the sacredness of the ceremony—not just a ritual honoring the departed souls, but a reminder of the continuous flow of culture, an unbroken link between the past, present, and future.
The drums beat faster as an elderly shaman steps onto a large stone platform in the center of the square, raising a totem carved with ancestral symbols. Everyone chants the prayers together, their voices echoing like a distant call from the earth and sky.
After the ceremony, the people sit together, sharing traditional dishes like *nyama choma*, *ugali*, and *sukuma wiki*. Laughter and conversation fill the air, creating a warm, unified atmosphere. Zihao, sitting beside Kalia, feels like he has become part of this community, where family values and ancestor worship are held in the highest regard.
As the night deepens and the fires gradually die out, the people slowly disperse, returning to their homes with hearts full of gratitude and hope for the future. Kalia and Zihao walk slowly down the cobbled streets, their shadows stretching under the silver moonlight.
"*Mugambo* is not just a festival; it is how we maintain our connection to the past," Kalia says, her voice warm. "No matter how far we go, the ancestors are always the light guiding us."
Zihao nods, a wave of indescribable emotion rising within him. The ceremony not only gave him a deeper understanding of Noir but also allowed him to experience the sacred bond between people and their ancestors—a bond that transcends anything he had known before. Noir, with its ancient rituals and reverence for ancestors, has truly left him with a profound sense of respect and admiration for this culture.
A Noir woman, with dark skin, standing over 1.8 meters tall, approaches and hands Zihao a letter. Zihao, momentarily startled, nods and accepts it. The woman bows and departs. Zihao opens the letter and, after reading it, smiles in satisfaction, still maintaining his calm demeanor.
The Matriarch has agreed.