Him?

Laila held back the tears that were about to fall. It was beautiful to be given this type of privilege. "Is that your sword?" she managed to say, still finding it difficult to process what had just happened.

"I have another," he flashed a smile and winked, then turned to her mother and said, "We should go. Please stay well."

Laila's mother smiled and bowed, "Be careful, both of you."

Meka bowed, "Thank you."

"Farewell, my dear," Laila's mother smiled.

As they turned to leave, Laila yelled behind them, "Please send my warm greetings to Safiya and Malik and tell them I can't wait to see them come home."

Meka and Dede smiled and nodded before turning towards where his horse was tied. Dede helped her climb onto the horse, and then he followed behind, leaning close to her. He gulped and whispered, "Hold tight," before galloping away.