Nada the Lily Chapter 17 - Umslopogaas Becomes Chief of the People of the Axe

Nada the Lily Chapter 18 - The Curse of Baleka

In which the sombre tide of mourning sweeps across the land at Chaka’s command, and the weight of sorrow and suspicion drives the people to despair and ruin under a dark and terrible edict. Amidst these grim proceedings, a wager ensues testing the fate of a tribe, and amid the shadows of loss and vengeance, sworn promises bind brother and sister in a fragile last communion.

Nada the Lily Chapter 20 - Mopo Bargains with the Princes

In which the sinister dreams of a formidable king sow fear and bloodshed among his people, while a mysterious and tempestuous visit from a storm-borne apparition signals dire tidings. Meanwhile, a cunning counsellor navigates the treacherous intrigues of rival princes, bargaining for power amid whispers of betrayal and the gathering approach of war.

Nada the Lily Chapter 19 - Masilo Comes to the Kraal Dugeza

In which the restless spirit of vengeance leads Chaka to the haunted cleft where the dead lie, and there the luminous Queen of Heaven appears with a prophecy that chills even the mightiest king. The saga unfolds further as Masilo, a weary traveller, arrives at Duguza with tidings of distant wars and shifting powers, while sorrow shadows the heart of one who learns of loss among his kin.

Catriona Chapter 3 - I Go to Pilrig

In which a young gentleman, resolved to act with honour and justice, sets out through Edinburgh’s streets and countryside, his thoughts heavy with prophecy and the grim sight of justice served upon gibbets, towards an appeal that may shape his fate. At the house of a cautious yet learned cousin, he secures a letter of introduction, prepared with measured words and grave hesitation, to support his delicate and perilous undertaking on behalf of justice and loyalty.

Nada the Lily Chapter 17 - Umslopogaas Becomes Chief of the People of the Axe

In which the cunning Umslopogaas engages in a fierce contest to claim the fearsome axe Groan-Maker and the chieftainship from the unconquered Jikiza, winning both through a blend of guile and valour that captivates the assembled people. He then stands resolute against the wrathful sons of Jikiza, joined by his steadfast brother Galazi, and together they secure his rule over the People of the Axe, as the new chief settles into his role amidst admiration and rivalry.