Although zebras are united today, this was not always so. Long ago, the zebra tribes were separate and unconcerned with each other. Each tribe managed its own affairs, and the others could go rot for all they cared.

But when an unthinkable calamity upsets the balance of the plains, everyone struggles to survive. One zebra, Maelewano, will take it upon herself to draw the tribes together and support each other, forming the beginnings of what would become Zebrabwe. By ancient tradition, her tale has been directly passed down from one generation to the next across centuries, always in person. And today, it’s your turn to hear her story.

Editor’s note: Due to the corruption inherent in oral tradition and based on what scant archaeological evidence exists, the following is estimated to be roughly 50% history, 25% myth, and 25% hagiography.

Written for Jake the Army Guy's Horseword Extravaganza II and as an experiment for my 50th story.