The Second Republic was no longer a dream whispered in the cold peaks of Meru; it was a living, breathing reality that smelled of damp earth and fresh ink. New Arusha had transformed into a sprawling hub of activity. The "Green Heart" was beating steadily, and the focus had shifted from mere survival to the foundation of a civilization: Education and Law.
Nala stood in the center of the Great Atrium, a massive open-air plaza where the roots of the central Baobab Oak formed natural benches and tables. Today was the opening of the first Sovereign Academy. Hundreds of children, their faces scrubbed clean of the Gully’s soot, were gathered, holding tablets that Maricha had repurposed from Syndicate scrap.
"They aren't just learning to read," Maricha said, walking up to Nala. She looked exhau
