The playground swung in the bright sun. Behind the concrete bunker, Bani stayed low. He listened to the creak of the rusty swings.
A stray ball bounced past with a loud thwack. Bani ducked even lower. His yellow peel mask hid his face.
Bani peeked over the bunker edge. A loud bird call made him jump back. He pressed against the gritty wall and waited.
The bunker felt solid and safe. Bani closed their eyes and remembered: bandage off and be the king.
Bani gripped the edges and pulled. The mask came free with a soft pop. Sunlight flooded their bright yellow face.
He gasped. Then a shaky breath turned into a smile. Bani stood up tall, stem straight.
He marched to the top and raised his arms. The playground was huge and friendly. He claimed it as his own.
The swings creaked. The slide gleamed. The banana warrior ruled the playground.