Heshima stood outside on the large open balcony of the Mikumbi's tree house looking out at the surrounding montane rainforest. It would seem odd that a two hundred kilogram, eastern lowland and mountain cross breed, silverback gorilla would not be roaming the surrounding forests. However, Heshima was no ordinary gorilla. He was Mikumbi's familiar. A pair bond between sorcerer and familiar that was far more powerful and meaningful than some ordinary family pet relationship.

  Heshima looked up with furrowed heavy brows to see a gathering of yellowy-green energy particles in a single point in space. More and more of these particles coalesced into a flash of yellowy-green light. From that flash, a piece of paper had formed then floated down in the humid air. Heshima followed the floating paper's path with his deep-set eyes, watching it land a few feet away from where he was standing. The gorilla walked to the fallen piece of paper then picked it up with its large hairy hand. Heshima smiled a toothy grin, knowing exactly what the piece of paper was about. He wasted no time in heading into the tree house to deliver the piece of paper.

  Mikumbi sat on his couch, reading a book. The wizard rolled his eyes as the foundation of the tree house shook. It meant only one of two things:

  Heshima has spotted an intruder. Or Heshima has got a letter of request for help.

  As Heshima ran into the house, Mikumbi stood up with folded arms and a pissed-off look on his boyish face.

  “Heshima. I've told you Khonvoum how many times to never run in the house.”

  The silverback hung his head low. It could feel the glare of Mikumbi on his skin and fur.

  “Hand over the letter,” ordered Mikumbi. The gorilla did what he was told. “Good. Now go to your corner.”

  Mikumbi shook his head like a loving father as Heshima went to his corner like a scolded child.

  The wizard opened and read the letter.

  Dear Mikumbi,

  This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.

  My Empire and I are in need of your assistance.

  A grave threat has returned to my realm.

  Signed

  Umbusi/Emperor Mgwazeni Mbuyiselo Thaba Philippus Inkwenyezi

  “Hmm. I haven't been to the south of the continent in a long while,” said Mikumbi.

  Mikumbi went to gather and pack the things he needed for the trip. Potions, food, water, He walked out of his room fully packed with his wizard spear in his hand and a sheathed panga and six kpinga and osele attached to his belt.

  “What do you think?” said the wizard looking at Heshima. “I look cute huh?”

  Heshima flashed a large toothy grin.

  “Okay, time to head off.”

  Heshima once again jumped up and down, shaking the tree house while making distinct vocalisations with his mouth.

  Mikumbi looked at his familiar with a stern face. “Stop it. You're not coming with me.”

  Heshima hung his head low.

  With Heshima out of the way, Mikumbi could start his spell.

  A small yet scheming smile crept on the gorilla's face as the wizard began his spell. Heshima observed the sorcerer drawing energy from the universe and chanting. Next came Mikumbi's glowing eyes, hands and spear tip. The gorilla knew he'd have to be quick to execute his plan.

  “To 'Senlekwa'.” boomed the wizard. As he was about to slam the butt of his spear on the ground to complete the spell, Heshima hurtled towards him with a speed that didn't match his incredible bulk.

  “Oh shit,” thought the wizard as the silverback was in range of his teleportation spell.

  It was too late to spell now. The spear butt slammed on the floor and both wizard warrior and familiar disappeared in a bright yellowy-green flash.