The Last Elephant Keeper

Part 19

Ali couldn't help but worry for his friend's safety. He knew the desperation that had settled upon many in these uncertain times. "People are desperate," he explained, "and with the promise of riches, they'll take advantage of any opportunity they get."

The news was disheartening for Khumo, who had come so far, hoping for a relatively smooth journey towards her goal. "I can't turn around now," she said, her voice tinged with defiance. The thought of giving up after coming so close was unthinkable to her.

Ali shook his head, his concern still evident, but he chose to focus on his tea for a moment. He trusted Khumo's strength and determination, yet he couldn't shake the worry that gnawed at him.

As they continued sipping their tea, Ali sensing a chance to relieve some pressure, caught Flash playfully fighting of Patty.

The minutes seemed to stretch into eternity as they sat in the tranquil surroundings, savoring the last remnants of their tea. Khumo found comfort in the serene atmosphere that enveloped Ali's cozy haven. The soft rustle of leaves in the gentle breeze, the distant calls of birds, and the distant murmur of the nearby stream created an almost sage-like ambiance. It was a place where thoughts could unfurl and emotions could be laid bare.

As Khumo stole a glance at Ali, she noticed the lines etched on his face, telling stories of countless experiences and heartfelt connections. With warm belly, herself reminiscing about the brief day they had shared together.

Khumo sat with her thoughts, the weight of her mission pressing heavily on her mind. She couldn't shake the feeling of unease that had settled in her stomach ever since she decided to embark on this journey. She and Ali had spent only a short time together, but in that time, they had formed a bond that transcended their shared experiences of Africa. She valued his insight and wisdom, which made her current predicament all the more complicated.

As Ali readied himself to leave, he turned to Khumo, his gaze sincere and caring. "I hope I'm wrong about where you're headed," he said, his voice tinged with concern. "I know if trouble does come, you can handle it."

Khumo appreciated his candidness, feeling a sense of gratitude towards him for sharing his knowledge and offering his support. Despite the brevity of their acquaintance, she sensed a genuine connection with Ali, as if they had known each other for much longer.

"I'll keep that in mind, Ali," she replied with a small smile, touched by his kindness. "Thank you for everything."

Ali nodded, his eyes lingering on her for a moment before turning back to his faithful mule, Flash. As he mounted the mule and prepared to ride off into the distance, Khumo watched him go with a mix of emotions swirling inside her—apprehension for what lay ahead, excitement for the possibilities that awaited, and a comforting sense of trust in her new friend.

With a final wave, Ali set off on his journey, disappearing beyond the horizon, as Khumo shuttered her eyes with a deep breath.

With her eyes locked on the navigation tablet, Khumo pushed forward, guided by the device that held the key to the elusive relic. The journey had been arduous, but she had pressed on, taking short breaks to charge the tablet using the solar array she carried with her. As she drew nearer to her destination, a sense of both excitement and trepidation filled her heart.

In the distance, the morning sun painted a faint silhouette of a place that seemed familiar—a hint that she was indeed heading in the right direction. But this also meant she was nearing the area where poachers were known to roam, a constant threat to the safety of the elephants and herself. Khumo tightened her grip on the handle of her backpack, her senses heightened as she prepared to face the dangers that lay ahead.

As she neared the property she sought, Khumo's keen eyes scanned the surroundings for any signs of trouble. The house loomed ahead, a modest and unassuming abode nestled within the vast expanse of land. Khumo's heart pounded in her chest as she contemplated her next move.

The elephants. They were her priority, and she knew she couldn't risk their safety by bringing them too close to the inhabited area. After much deliberation, she made a difficult decision—to hide the elephants behind one of the larger rock outcroppings nearby. It was a risky move, but she believed it was the best chance to keep them safe.

As Khumo led the elephants to their temporary hiding spot, she spoke softly to them, trying to reassure them with every step. "Stay here, my friends," she whispered to the gentle giants. "I'll be back soon, and Hope will look after all of you."

Hope, the wise and experienced matriarch, understood the gravity of the situation. She emitted a low rumble, acknowledging Khumo's instructions, and took charge of the group. The others seemed to follow Hope's lead, seeking solace in her calming presence.

However, as Khumo turned to leave, she noticed Flash, the young and curious member of the group, had different plans. In a mischievous dash, he broke away from the rest, his inquisitive nature driving him to explore the unfamiliar territory around the house.

Approaching the house on foot, Khumo kept herself hidden in the shadows, not wanting to draw any attention to her presence. The soft glow emanating from the windows indicated that someone was inside, and the distant sound of a radio playing further confirmed her suspicions. She approached the weathered door with caution, the excitement of being so close to her goal mingling with the nervousness of the unknown.

Her heart pounded in her chest as she raised her hand to knock lightly on the door, the sound echoing in the stillness of the morning. She held her breath, waiting for a response. After what felt like an eternity, the door creaked open, revealing a kindly-looking older man with deep-set wrinkles etched on his face. His gentle smile instantly put Khumo at ease, though she remained vigilant.

"Hello, young one. What brings you here?" the man inquired kindly, his warm eyes curious yet welcoming.

Summoning her courage, Khumo took a deep breath and replied, "I am Khumo, the daughter of Clarissa. My mother spoke of this place and wanted me to come here."

Recognition flickered in the man's eyes, and his face softened with remembrance. "Ah, yes, Clarissa. I remember her well," he said, his voice tinged with a touch of nostalgia. "I'm sorry to hear about her passing. She was a dear friend."

Khumo's heart swelled with emotion, grateful that her mother's name still held meaning in this place. "Thank you," she replied softly, "she was an extraordinary woman."

"Indeed, she was," the man agreed, stepping aside to allow Khumo to enter the humble abode. "Please, come in. It's not often we have visitors out here."