seemed

rah's eyes caught a sign at last - "Welcome to Katsina" - but the journey did not slow. The bus pressed forward,

less bumps, and the unfamiliar scents all wove together into a dull nausea that gnawed at her

ch her breath. But there was no stopping. The ro

he chance to serve, to grow, to write a story that was hers and hers alone. That fr

town for those without accommodations or a Primary Place of Assignment (PPA). It was a small mercy,

efully, feeling the soft evening air wrap around her like a gentle embrace. The sounds of the town were livel

offered smiles and pointed her toward the "Corpers lodge," sharing bits of advice

ds as the city lights flickered around her. The ride was short b

yes wide with a mixture of exhaustion and curiosity. The compound buzzed softly with activity-yo

ed close together. Nearby, the male corps members gathered outs

eeted her warmly but wi

, "but you can share a room with three ot

ed the walls, each already occupied by sleeping or chatting corps members. There w

iet gratitude. A roof over her head, a place to rest

of the mat beneath her fingers. The hum of voices

sunlight breaking through clouds. They spoke of their experiences - the hardships of servic

uty but brightened by hope. Listening to them, Ameerah felt th

comforting. The meal was humble but rich with meaning, a symbol of welcome and comm

spered words floated into the air, grounding her amid s

. The exhaustion was deep, but so was the hope. Tomorrow, she would report to

igue and anticipation, dream

was