Dawn broke softly over the royal hill of Mengo. Mist curled over the grass like a silvery veil, and the first rays of sunlight touched the thatched roofs of the palace compound. The Great Hall of Drums, an enormous circular structure supported by carved poles stood ready. Inside, the massive royal drums rested in ceremonial silence, their presence a reminder that in Buganda, drums were not merely instruments, they were the voice of the kingdom.
The delegation from Nuri entered as the Kabaka and his council gathered. The air was cool, heavy with the scent of burning herbs. Mats were arranged in a wide circle: Nuri's envoys on one side, Buganda's elders on the other, with the Kabaka presiding from the center.
He raised a hand.
"Let us begin."
A deep drumbeat echoed once. The meeting was called to order.
Minister Juma rose first, bowing slightly before speaking.
