SpyLoaded Forum







News





Post reply

Note: this post will not display until it's been approved by a moderator.

Name:
Email:
Subject:
Message icon:

Verification:
"5 eggs" Multiply By "4 eggs" Is what ?:

shortcuts: hit alt+s to submit/post or alt+p to preview


Topic Summary

Posted by: Miss Ifeoluwa
« on: January 20, 2020, 06:52:15 AM »

Goddess Of The Sun (Adaora Part 2) - Episode 33

Goddess Of The Sun (Adaora Part 2) - Final Episode

She cast her eyes upon the moon that had covered the sun. She raised her hands into the air.
“May the moon and the sun fill me with power to do justice and after justice is done, may light and darkness separate.”
She pointed her flaming hand towards the King who was trying to escape but got stock in the pit of dead bodies. A river of reddish flame with silvery sparks burned him alive amidst his screaming. With one last and troubled shout, he crossed the river of life.
Immediately this was done, the dagger vanished from Adaora’s hands and she fell to the ground, unconscious.
“Adaora!” The princess rushed towards her.
Oriaku wiped away her tears, knowing that the gods had awarded them victory.
“But you said you weren’t crying,” Okorie smiled.
She looked away shyly, “I couldn’t weep in front of you.”
She felt satisfied in her spirit. Now it was time to return to Ezeudo and face her evil husband and Obiajulu.
Chinedum and Uli crouched over Adaora’s body.
“I don’t understand what has happened to her,” Chinedum complained.
“After a possession, the human host usually feels very week. You must leave for Ezeudo immediately to complete the ritual.” Princess Uli warned.
The thought of leaving the princess behind didn’t sit well with him. He knew his life would never be the same. It would be filled with a void without her, but he had to return to his wife and children.
“I will miss you,” Chinedum smiled.
The princess knew that she had more responsibilities to shoulder. Chiemelie’s uncertainty about his attraction to her was the least of her problems. She had a Kingdom to rule. She had a mother and a brother to bury.
“I shall keep you alive in my thoughts and prayer,” a sad smile played on her lips. She was attracted to this man. She had learned of his ways and had enjoyed spending time with him. She would miss Adaora too. But she couldn’t return to Ezeudo with them as she had always planned.
It wasn’t long before they all hugged each other and said their goodbyes. Oriaku thanked the princess for caring for her, and Adaora.
“May the gods continue to light your path and protect you.”
Uli nodded, “And you too. You all should visit Amabara more frequently. We are no longer enemies.”
As Oriaku left with Chinedum and the moon virgin, she couldn’t help but look back one last time. Her heart missed a beat when she realized that Okorie had been staring at her. She exhaled sharply and focused on the journey ahead as a lot of secrets would be brought to light.

Ikemba had been in a meeting with his chiefs when a dagger with three golden stripes suddenly appeared in the middle of the meeting arena. All the men rose to their feet and rushed outside, except for Ikemba. He encircled the dagger thrice, before taking it from the ground. A wave of relief washed over him as he realized that the mission had just been completed.

“May the gods be praised! The ancient dagger has been sent to us!” He cried out. But he noticed that the chiefs were a bit distracted. When he followed their gaze, he noticed they were staring at a direction. His joy only increased when he realized that the objects of their gaze were the heroes that had rescued Ezeudo from the evil plans of Chiemelie.
Chinedum increased his steps so that the ritual could be completed and Adaora would be restored to life.
“My King, we have done as the gods have commanded. Take over from here, he dropped Adaora’s soft body at the King’s feet. The chiefs and all the dwellers of the palace had come out to welcome Oriaku and Chinedum. Many were shocked to see Anosike’s wife in good health, because the word of her torture by her husband had spread through the land.
Oriaku noticed the strange stares that she was getting from the women who resided in the palace. Being an assertive woman, she sucked in a deep breath and walked towards one of the maids who was very chatty. Her name was Ifeoma.
“Why does everyone stare at me like I am an outcast?” Oriaku asked. Certainly, nobody knew that Obiajulu had stabbed her, so they couldn’t have presumed that she was dead.
At first, the royal maid hadn’t wanted to be the harbinger of bad news. But her talkative nature wouldn’t let her be. She grabbed Oriaku’s hand and pulled her to one side.
“The secret has been brought to light. The gods have vindicated you in this matter…” She started.
“What matter? What are you talking about?” Oriaku’s brows ndaggered in confusion.
Ifeoma swallowed and began to spill the beans, but she failed to notice that Chinedum who’d been standing near was listening.
“Your husband has been arrested by Ikemba. His lover, Obiajulu had gone to the ancient river of Mmiriulo to bewitch her husband, so he wouldn’t find out about her secret affair with Anosike. On her way home, the gods struck her with blindness. From what I learned, she also tried to kill the moon virgin. It was after her blindness, that your husband was forced to confess about how they almost killed you and tossed your body into the river.”
Chinedum froze when he heard the details but he kept his cool. He didn’t believe a word that Ifeoma had spoken. He quickly moved away and focused on the final ritual that would set Adaora free from the curse that held her bound. But deep down, his heart was troubled. He noticed that many of the villagers had gathered. He could spot Okeke coming with his children to witness his arrival. Where was Anosike? Where was the wife that he loved and cherished?
Ikemba knelt beside her sleeping body. She was the most beautiful woman that he had ever seen. But even before he set his eyes on her, he had loved her. He had respected her.
“You almost sacrificed your life for me…for us…” He lowered his lips to her ears.
Tears stung his eyes at the costly sacrifice that Adaora had made.
“It is with your help that I will be free from the curse. I will love you with all my heart and I will be loyal to only you. We shall make generations together.”
When he was finished, he slit his wrist with the sacred weapon. Warm blood gushed out. He raised her tender hands and pricked a spot, so a little line of blood could flow through. When he was finished, he dropped the dagger gently on the ground.
“May the goddess of the moon and the god of the sun honor their words!” He prayed.
“Ise!!!” The people shouted.
He bound their hands together until a ray of silvery light appeared. The wounds were healed immediately as the curses upon them were broken.
All of a sudden, Adaora awoke with a sneeze.
“Where am I?” Her lips moved. She found it difficult to put the pieces together.
“You are here with me, my love.” A deep baritone responded.
The richness of his voice was all she needed to know that the man kneeling beside her was the ruler of Ezeudo. She recognized the man that haunted her dreams, the man whose presence was always with her.
“My King,” she bowed her head.
He laughed softly, “Is that what you’ll be calling your husband?” He cupped he face into his palms and stared into her greenish eyes.
“What do you want me to call you?” Adaora asked shyly.
He shrugged, “You’ll decide after this…”
Ikemba didn’t wait for another question, he pulled her gently towards himself and dropped a kiss on her lips. This loving action evoked praises from his people and they hailed the new lovers.
“Long Live the King! Long Live the Queen!”
When the chants had subsided, Chinedum stepped on the elevated portion of the palace.
“Is it true?” He gritted his teeth. His voice was broken and sore. His eyes were filled with pain and frustration.
Adaora quickly moved away as she was led to a plum woman in the crowd. She had a feeling that someone must have told Chinedum about his wayward wife.
“The goddess just whispered to me that you have no child. I returned with Ikele leaves to open your womb. You must come to the palace later for it,” Adaora whispered to the stranger.
Ifeyinwa, Obiajulu’s aunt lowered her head to the ground. The gods would give her a child as promised and through the help of the moon virgin.
“Thank you.”
Adaora was about to return to the King, when she spotted a crying Oriaku in the crowd. She sighed and quickly rushed to comfort her.
“Do not cry too much, remember that the gods will send you a better man.” Adaora pulled her in for a hug and caressed her hair. Oriaku had many regrets. If only she knew what had happened, she would’ve stayed back in Amabara. But it wasn’t too late. Once the marriage between Adaora and the King was sealed, she would return to Amabara and consider Okorie for her second chance at love.
The King was speechless as he stared into his cousin’s eyes. He couldn’t tell Chinedum the truth.
“Why don’t you rest and take a bath? The journey has been very stressful.”
“It is true right?” Chinedum scoffed. He now understood the pitiful gazes that he had been receiving from people.
Without waste of time, he moved away from the palace towards home. He had made a fool of himself by letting go of Princess Uli for a woman he’d thought was faithful. He marched with determination back home. He would leave the children with Adaora for some time. But he needed to get as far as he could from Obiajulu.
In the end, it was a happy day for everyone else in Ezeudo. The Kingdom dwellers were excited that the looming war between them and Amabara would never see the light of day. They had also heard about the crowing of the first woman to rule Amabara, Queen Uli. The Kingdoms would unite soon. Oriaku would find love in Okorie’s strong arms. It was going to be a difficult journey for Chinedum. But he would learn to forgive his blind ex wife and find more ways to convince Uli, that he was the man for her. The King and his Queen would be united as one, and just as the gods had promised, they would be blessed with children.
“Can we go back to the heavens now? Our work is ended.” Ituri whispered to her counterpart, the god of the sun.
Anyanwu sighed, “Sometimes I feel we could have a chance to be mortal. Their lives aren’t perfect. It is full of ups and downs, pains and tears, tragedies and joys, but they manage to be happy.
The goddess of the moon laughed, “And they die, but we don’t. Do not ever forget that.” He joined in the laughter as they soared over the clouds back to the god-realm where they will permanently reside and watch over their children.

THE END

Story By Davina Diaries


Posted by: Miss Ifeoluwa
« on: January 20, 2020, 06:47:04 AM »

Goddess Of The Sun (Adaora Part 2) - Episode 32

Adaora felt herself being lifted up by the strong warriors. She felt as light as a feather. Her mind was broken; streams of memories were flowing in and out. Light flashed before her eyes as she saw images of the men that had attacked her mother. In that fragile state, Adaora realized that they had the same markings as Chinedum’s men.
“You killed my mother! You destroyed my home!” She screamed deliriously. And she was right. The King of Amabara had been so desperate to conquer Ikemba. When a sorcerer had named a certain virgin who dwelt in the mysterious land of Anyanwa, he had released his warriors to raid the place. But when they arrived, they had forgotten his instructions and had gone on a ravaging spree instead. When the men had returned, Chiemelie had all of them hanged. This explained why everyone was scared of him.
He ignored her screams of accusations. He needed to hurry with the sacrifice before Chinedum found him. Oriaku felt helpless as she followed the guards. Her eyes were puffy and swollen from crying. She needed to do something. She couldn’t just stand and watch!
“I must find Chinedum and princess Uli,” she thought to herself. She paused and hid herself in a strategic point, until they had all stepped out of the palace. Swiftly, she ran but she failed to see the hefty guard that approached her. Oriaku only froze when her face bumped into his hard body.
Okorie’s hard features softened when he ran into the beautiful woman again.
“Our paths have crossed twice today. The gods may have something for us.” This was a common saying in Amabara, but Okorie was deliberate about it. He had been attracted to this fine woman from the first time her body had been found at the river. She seemed like a good soul that needed love, and cherishing.
Oriaku swallowed and tore her eyes from his penetrating and almost lustful gaze. The words of the goddess rang in her ears, but she pushed it away. She couldn’t give her heart out anymore. Love had failed her the first time, it would fail her again.
“What are you doing here?” Okorie asked with a smile. It seemed the woman was afraid of him.
She licked her lips and shook her head.
“Nothing, I must go!”
Apparently, he wasn’t aware of what was about to happen and she couldn’t tell him. Right now, she couldn’t trust anyone.
“No, tell me.” He grabbed her hand.
His touch was firm but kind. She wasn’t scared of him like he thought. She just didn’t want to be around any man.
“Um, I don’t want to talk about it.”
“But you’re crying?” He released her hand and cupped her face in his’.
His words made her feel shy but she pretended to be okay with them.
“I am not crying.” Her voice croaked.
Okorie released her face and felt the hilt of his machete when he heard footsteps approaching. His hands softened when he noticed Princess Uli and Chinedum running into the throne room.
“Where is he? Where is that accursed son of the devil?” Princess Uli screamed.
Oriaku noticed bloodstains on Chinedum’s body. She quickly rushed and threw her hands around him. Oriaku had fought very hard to contain the tears that once gushed out freely. She hadn’t wanted Okorie to see her as a weak and fragile thing. But the sight of Chinedum’s wounds broke her further.
“Where is who, your highness?” Okorie was lost.
“I don’t have time to explain. My brother is well aware of my plans to ascend the throne of my forefathers. He has slain Igwekala and desecrated the shrine with flames. If I don’t kill him, he would me.”
Oriaku pulled away from Chinedum’s arms.
“He has taken Adaora and the dagger.”
Everyone present in the room didn’t waste another moment. They all rushed out of the throne room as they followed the lead of the princess, who knew exactly where her brother was headed.
The King had led his men to the place where he sacrificed maidens. The pit was stuffed with decayed bones and flesh. Flies perched on the stinking earth. Big and dirty vultures waited to the next meal.
“Put her on the ground!” He yelled.
Before the men did, they gently took out the dagger that Chiemelie had plunged into Adaora’s back. It was a prototype to confuse anyone that would be trailing the original. Adaora had passed out at this point, because she had lost too much blood.
“The gods of my ancestors, I have come! I pray that you accept me as I am, as you created me to be!” He felt to his knees and raised the ancient dagger up.
“Ituri, goddess of the moon, I call upon you. It is time to offer me your justice. I have worshipped you and served you all these years. I bring you the sacrifice of the moon virgin, her blood shall make you proud.” He said a loud prayer.
At first, the breeze that came started slowly. It rustled the leaves of the deciduous trees that surrounded the environment. It swept the odor from dead bodies from one angle to the other. It carried with it dust and stones.
“Ituri! I call upon you!” The King increased his tone. He felt confident that the goddess was present in the wind. And he was right, for Ituri had come to take her sacrifice. However, the sacrifice was never meant to be the moon virgin. Adaora had only been a worthy vessel and she would serve Ituri till death.
“Your Majesty?” The chief guard swallowed as he noticed something strange.
“Can’t you see that I am busy?” Chiemelie felt irritated by the guard’s call.’
But the man hadn’t meant to interrupt the King’s prayer. He was the first to witness the appearance of the moon in the afternoon. It floated towards the sun and covered it, so that it cast a mild darkness over the land.
“This has never happened before. This is a bad omen,” the man exchanged glares with the other guards.
At that point, they recalled the cruelty of Chiemelie. He wasn’t the type of King that one sacrificed for. The chief guard gently dropped his sword upon the sand and bowed his head. He needed to run home to his wife and children before it was too late. When the others saw that the chief guard had given up on them, they dropped their machetes and tiptoed away from the wailing King.
All this while, Chiemelie was oblivious that he had been abandoned. He was deeply engrossed in his prayer. The changes in the state of nature made him feel reassured that the gods had chosen him to win the battle.
“I can feel your presence Ituri,” he closed his eyes, and smiled.
Just then, a strand of lightning appeared in the sky and rained down. It was accompanied with thunder. Both elements fell on the body of the moon virgin. Suddenly, Adaora was awakened from her sorrowful sleep. Her wound was healed and her strength was rejuvenated. Slowly, the memories of everything that had taken place in the palace played back.
Gently, the moon virgin rubbed the place where he had stabbed her. Satisfied that she was alright, Adaora gently fetched the dagger next to her and rose. She felt no pity for the greedy King who had filled the pit with innocent women while searching for her. The strength of the Ituri possessed her. The silvery blood of the goddess took control of her. At one, the dagger she intended for the king rolled out of her hands.
“Your time has come!” Adaora laughed.
At first, he felt his mind was playing a trick on him. But when he heard the sound of the laughter, Chiemelie trembled like a chicken under rain. He knew for certain that Adaora had died. What had changed?
“You?” His face grew pale.
“Give me what belongs to me!” She stretched her right hand for the dagger.
Though her eyes were filled with a silvery glow and her legs were no longer touching the ground, Chiemelie’s arrogance took the better part of him. As long as he was concerned, he was destined to rule Amabara and Ezeudo together and nothing could stop him.
“On whose authority do you speak? Do you know not that the moon goddess and the god of the sun and the others I worship are on my side?” He felt insulted by her.
He tightened his fingers around the handle of the dagger and moved towards Adaora.
“This time, you will not resurrect!” He yelled at the top of his voice as he plunged the dagger through her.
It was at that moment that Chinedum and the others arrived.
The princess screamed when she noticed her brother had stabbed the moon virgin. She had intended to step in to save the situation, when Chinedum pulled her back.
“Don’t! The goddess has taken over her body,” Chinedum whispered.
They all stared in wonder as they noticed that the stab had no effect on the moon virgin. She didn’t touch the ground with her feet. She only floated.
“No, this cannot be,” Chiemelie tossed the dagger on the ground and was about to run.
“The goddess works through those who are righteous and pure in heart. She has chosen me to deliver victory into Ikemba’s hands. She seeks to honor your sister. You and your evil mother have no place in the palace.” Adaora said. While speaking, her hands began to glow with a reddish flame. A macabre laughter rang from her lips as she floated towards the terrified King.
“You desecrated a shrine, and you will pay for it!”

TO BE CONTINUED

Story By Davina Diaries
Posted by: Miss Ifeoluwa
« on: January 20, 2020, 06:43:59 AM »

Goddess Of The Sun (Adaora Part 2) - Episode 31

Goddess Of The Sun (Adaora Part 2) - Episode 31

He was an experienced hunter, so he knew the game that preys and predators played. He moved his feet swiftly. He always kept his eyes on the direction of their spears and machetes. He launched his machete into the belly of one of the men who attacked him. Quickly, he pulled it out and dropped it on the next man. Blood rained on the earth. Two of the King’s best men were down.
A devious smile played on Uli’s lips as she watched Chinedum fight. His swift and agile movements had confused the King’s men. Surely, they hadn’t seen someone fight like that before. She thought of the next action to take.
“I told you, the gods are against you.” Uli spited her brother.
“Shut up!” He pulled her hair.
It didn’t take long before Chinedum finished killing the five guards. He was exhausted but not through. The gods had chosen him to retrieve the dagger and the moment had come.
“Let her go!” He commanded in a gruff voice.
He scoffed, “And if I don’t?”
Chinedum wiped the sweat that clung to his brow. His eyes fell on Uli as they exchanged a silent message. He was ready to strike Chiemelie but he needed her permission. In her beautiful brown eyes, he saw her readiness to accept his decision. He also saw gratitude.
Being a hunter came with wisdom. He dropped his machete and fetched a shorter knife from his bag.
“Release your sister and I will spare your life…” He advanced towards Chiemelie.
The King knew that the odds were against him but he was still willing to fight. He knew that Chinedum was ready to kill him, but he wouldn’t give up that easily. He pushed Uli towards Chinedum swiftly. In a swift move, he took out one of the many charms that Igwekala had prepared for him.
“Ododomna!!!” He chanted, before vanishing into the air.
Back at the palace, Adaora had decided that she needed Oriaku’s assistance. The anxiety she had been feeling from the time she woke up, hadn’t left her.
“Come with me, it is time for us to stick together.” She whispered to Anosike’ wife as they moved towards the throne room where the ancient dagger was being kept.
“The King isn’t here!” One of the guards announced.
“I have an appointment with him. He says that I should wait here in the throne room for him.” Adaora replied with a stern face.
“And the stranger?” The guard pointed at Oriaku.
“I have a little information about her that may help the King and his council while investigating.” She explained. Without hesitation, they parted the way and led the women into the throne room.
A wave of excitement washed over Adaora as they stepped into the majestic throne room.
“Are you sure we are doing the right thing? What if we are caught?” Oriaku expressed her fears.
“We won’t be caught. Just use your eyes. We are looking for a dagger with three golden stripes. We have to be fast about it. It is important that we find it today.”
Oriaku sighed and nodded. If this was the part that she would play in ensuring that Ikemba stayed victorious, then she was prepared to do it. Silently, the women began to roam the throne room in search of the ancient relic. They moved silently like predators moved at the sight of prey. After a while of searching and not finding the dagger, Adaora felt frustrated.
“I don’t know what I was thinking. I don’t think Chiemelie would be stupid enough to keep the dagger here, knowing how important it is.” She sighed.
Oriaku wouldn’t entertain her discouraging words, she continued to look quietly. Adaora found it difficult to believe that the hour she has been waiting for all her life was now. She couldn’t wait for the dagger to be found. She couldn’t wait to meet with the great King of Ezeudo. She couldn’t wait for the curse upon her life to be taken away. Soon, everything about her life would change and she would be happy again. She smiled as she thought of Chinedum’s little children. She could feel their innocent hearts, beating and crying out for her.
“I will be home soon. I will see your lovely faces,” she pressed a shaky hand against her chest.
Oriaku was about to give up like the moon virgin, when Adaora felt an itchy sensation on her neck. When she swirled round, she found the goddess of the moon staring at her with a devious smile on her face. Adaora swallowed and stepped back.
“My goddess,” her lips moved in acknowledgment.
“You impress me,” Ituri’s legs touched the ground for the first time. She had been watching the humans fight for her dagger. Ituri had not offered Adaora’s team any assistance, yet they had come this far.
Adaora’s lips went dry, she didn’t have the perfect words for the goddess. She simply bowed her head and waited for the next instruction.
“I see that you are looking for my dagger,” Ituri smiled.
“Yes!” Adaora nodded.
Just then, Oriaku stopped searching as she heard Adaora mumbling some words.
“Who are you talking to?” Oriaku raised a brow.
Unlike the one’s that had been chosen and had the gift of sight, Oriaku couldn’t see beyond the natural elements. Adaora ignored her and focused her attention on the goddess who stared at Oriaku interestedly.
“Tell her that she shall fall in love with a better man and she shall bear him sons and daughters.” Ituri sent a message across.
Adaora’s eyes glowed with joy as she heard this. She quickly turned to Oriaku and explained that she was conversing with the goddess of the moon, Ituri.
“She has sent news of good things to come. You shall fall in love again. He shall be a good man and your union would be blessed with many fruits.”
Oriaku scoffed, “I don’t believe that. Even if I did, I have no interest in matters of the heart. I gave all my love to the man I married as a virgin, but he tossed my heart to the dust. I cannot risk it all over again. He almost killed me!”
Adaora inhaled, she understood the pain that Oriaku had passed through but the goddess had reassured her that everything would be fine.
“You must take the message of the goddess and keep your heart open.” Adaora replied. When she finished speaking with Oriaku, she returned to Ituri.
“Please, can you help us find your dagger?” Adaora asked. She prayed within that the goddess would grant her this request. Without the dagger, they couldn’t leave for Ezeudo. Without it, she would never find liberation.
With the stretch of her arm, the throne upon which Chiemelie sat began to glow. It burned a fiery red. This time, Oriaku was meant to witness the manifestation of the goddess’ true power. The shock made her head spin. She felt dizzy and almost fell on the ground.
“The dagger is under the throne!” Adaora cheered. She was about to show gratitude to the goddess but it was too late, for when she turned, Ituri was already gone. Now that her dagger was in safe hands, the goddess decided to keep away from the human realm until all the rituals for the moon virgin were done completely.
As Adaora rushed towards the throne to search for the dagger, she felt a sharp pain on her back.
“Stop!”
“No!” Oriaku screamed and rushed to catch the moon virgin whose back had just eaten a poisonous dagger.
The King walked straight to the throne. He had appeared in the palace after Chinedum had almost succeeded in killing him.
“You intend to steal my dagger as well?” He scoffed. He couldn’t believe the amount of betrayers that he’d surrounded himself with.
Adaora gritted her teeth as the pain of the dagger shot pierced her bones. Blood soaked the spot on the floor where she lay. Her body grew colder by the moment and if something wasn’t done, she would die.
“You don’t have to do this. Give the dagger to whom it rightly belongs!” Oriaku sobbed.
The King tore the tiger skin that was used to decorate his bronze throne. A small dagger with three golden stripes tumbled out of it. He collected it quickly.
“I have no regrets for what I have done. Your friend will die soon. If I were you, I will find a way out of Amabara,” Chiemelie warned. His blood boiled from the pain of Uli’s ambition to take over the throne. He was angry with everything and everyone. He had trusted Igwekala with his life, but that fool had betrayed him. He was going to sacrifice Adaora. Her blood and her life would give him authority to wield the true dagger of Ituri.
When the guards had heard the commotion in the palace, they had quickly rushed in. They were confused to see the wounded moon virgin on the ground.
“Bring her with me,” the King commanded.

TO BE CONTINUED

Story By Davina Diaries
Posted by: Miss Ifeoluwa
« on: January 20, 2020, 06:41:11 AM »

Goddess Of The Sun (Adaora Part 2) - Episode 30

Goddess Of The Sun (Adaora Part 2) - Episode 30

“I am sorry it is not what it looks like,” he began to apologize hoping that Adaora wouldn’t have a bad image of him. He was a married man and had no business chasing another woman especially when his wife had fulfilled all of her duties.
Adaora flashed her teeth.
“You don’t have to be sorry about anything master. It is not a crime to be in love with a woman.”
Adaora felt sad for him. She recalled Oriaku’s story about Obiajulu’s cheating ways, if only he knew that his wife was unfaithful. This would be the right time to make his intentions towards the princess proper; that is if she loved him as much.
Chinedum’s brows came together in wonder.
“So you approve of my attraction to Uli?”
Adaora shrugged, “it is not my approval that you need. I just want you to know that loving a beautiful soul like the princess isn’t a crime.” She sighed.
He decided to ponder on those words later, but he felt horrible for cheating on Obiajulu.
“I have been searching the whole palace for both of you.” Adaora played with her fingers as she stared at the lonely surrounding. It was a hidden bush path.
“Something has just happened and I need to tell you.” He called her closer and relayed all the information that Uli had given to him. The King had already made his plans, with the help of Igwekala who was now on their side, Chiemelie was going to make his move. There was no better time to steal the dagger than that day.
The plan sounded promising, but Adaora could spot many loopholes in it.
“So it was Igwekala’s idea to sacrifice me tonight? Whatever happened to the cleansing ritual of seven days? Does he know the repercussion of stopping the ritual for something else? How much do we trust this man?” She wasn’t being pessimistic, but she had a strange feeling about the whole thing. She remembered how Igwekala had supported the King when she had been kidnapped from Ezeudo. Such a man had his loyalties to the throne and Uli had made a mistake in trusting him.
Chinedum scratched his beard. He was confused by these new points that the moon virgin had raised.
“I think she trusts him, she wouldn’t have bribed him.”
Adaora inhaled deeply, “the gods have refused to speak to me. We are on our own now. We must rely on our intuition. In this matter, I felt we made a mistake by brining Igwekala in. We must find the dagger as quickly as possible. I have a feeling that Uli may be walking into a trap.”
Chinedum realized that everything that Ada was saying was true.
“What do we do now? Do we wait for her to return?” He asked.
Adaora shook her head, “no. We have to take the dagger ourselves.”
He scoffed, “under broad daylight? That is walking into fire.”
She shrugged, “would you rather wait till midnight when I may be sacrificed?”
“I will go after the dagger; you should find your way to Igwekala’s shrine. The princess must be rescued.” Adaora suggested.
“No, I will go after the dagger while you go after the princess.” He countered.
Adaora felt it was right for her to take the dagger; after all she was the moon virgin.
“I know the palace more than you do. Please go ahead for Uli.”
She didn’t wait for him to argue. She simply turned around and began to run towards the palace of Eze Chiemelie of Amabara. The drums of the final dance were beating and the night was near.
Again, the gods appeared in the gentle wind that blew.
“Do you think we should help them now?” Anyanwu’s fiery gaze stuck to the back of the moving moon virgin.
The moon goddess, Ituri, caressed her chin gently.
“No. Adaora has proven to be the wisest of them all. We will only help when the time comes.”
Chinedum sneezed as the wind raised dust particles towards his nostrils. The hairs on his back arose as a strange sensation of being watched filled him. He shook off the feeling and reminded himself of his many encounters in the forest as a hunter.
“I must find her. I must rescue Uli.”
Two days had passed since the gods brought justice upon Obiajulu and Anosike for their heinous acts. Fear had spread over the land at the swiftness of justice. People trembled as they thought of the blindness that had struck Chinedum’s cheating wife. They all couldn’t wait for the return of her husband.
“It’s been weeks since the moon virgin and Chinedum left. Are you sure they are still alive?” The Queen mother asked.
Ikemba had been out on a morning stroll. He had felt like strolling around Ezeudo to see the welfare of his people. He was also troubled concerning Obiajulu. How could anyone cheat on a man like Chinedum? How could she have lured him in with her evil spell? He tried to imagine the pain that his cousin would feel when he returned.
“The gods assure me of their safety. I do not know when they will return but we must prepare ourselves for the worst.” He replied. Already, he had given an order for the warriors to begin their training. He knew how tricky Chiemelie was. Ikemba didn’t want his kingdom to be taken by surprise, so he was keeping his fingers crossed.
The Queen felt a little bit relieved.
“I never believed that Anosike could cheat on a woman like Oriaku. How could he sleep with his best friend’s wife? Truly, the gods are the only ones that can read the intentions of our hearts.”
The Queen had recalled Anosike’s strange behavior when she had asked after Oriaku.
“I am happy that she isn’t dead. Wherever that good woman is, she shall be brought back to Ezeudo.”
On a lighter note, the Queen elbowed her son.
“If the gods hadn’t chosen the moon virgin for you, I would have asked you to marry Oriaku. She is a wonderful person.” When she finished speaking, the King laughed. His mother was right about Oriaku, but he had no romantic interest in people’s wives.
“Thank you for your concern, I am waiting for the moon virgin.” Ikemba winked. Thoughts of the woman he had never seen usually warmed his heart. It was strange, really. But he was convinced that she was the woman for him. He couldn’t wait for the day of her final return.
They both fell silent and continued walking, with the royal guards solidly behind them. Mother and son acknowledged the greetings of the people with kind words or a simple smile. It was Ikemba that noticed a plump woman who approached them. Perhaps he was imagining it, but she had a striking resemblance with Obiajulu.
“My royals,” she bowed her head in greeting.
The royals stopped and watched the woman. She was Ifeyinwa, Obiajulu’s aunt.
“Please, do not hold it against my niece. Please do not banish her from your land. You have a kind and forgiving heart, please be merciful.”
Ikemba lifted a confused brow.
“How may I be of help to you woman? Who do you plead for?”
The plump woman fiddled with her hands as she thought of the great shame that Obiajulu had brought upon Chinedum’s household. She had wanted to run back to her village the day that Obiajulu had been struck with blindness. But when she remembered the purpose of her journey to Ezeudo, she kept still. The gods had promised to give her a child, but the only person who could make that come true was the moon virgin. Ifeyinwa had decided to wait and pray for the safe return of the moon virgin. But one thing was certain. Once Chinedum returned, she was leaving for her village. She couldn’t share the same roof with a murderous and wicked person like Obiajulu.
“I plead for my niece…” she stuttered.
“Your niece?” The Queen mother stepped in.
“Obiajulu,” she murmured.
The royals didn’t wait for her to finish. They abandoned the woman in her kneeling position and continued their walk.
Tears rolled down Ifeyinwa’s cheeks as she thought of the eternal disgrace that Anwuli’s daughter had brought upon their family.
“It will never be well with you Obiajulu for this humiliation that you have caused me.” She cursed as she rose to her feet. All she prayed for was the swift return of the moon virgin.

TO BE CONTINUED

Story By Davina diaries

Posted by: Miss Ifeoluwa
« on: January 19, 2020, 03:56:00 AM »

Goddess Of The Sun (Adaora Part 2) - Episode 29

Goddess Of The Sun (Adaora Part 2) - Episode 29

“May the gods bless the morning!” Chinedum increased his steps so he could meet up with the princess.
All night, he had dreamt of her. It was Uli’s face that had plagued his dreams. When he awoke, he felt very guilty as he remembered that he had left behind his wife and children. From what he observed, the more he tried to fight his growing attraction to the princess, the stronger that attraction became. He was certain that he lusted after her, because he had sworn never to give his heart to another woman after Obiajulu. Seeing her this morning broke the restraint he had. He just couldn’t stay away from her. He silently prayed that his plans to retrieve the dagger worked, so he could return to his wife and family.
Uli licked her lips and forced her eyes shut. He was the last person that she’d wanted to see. She liked Chinedum. He was a good man. But he didn’t feel the same for her. Besides, she had more important matters to attend to. She needed all the focus that she could get.
Chinedum felt uneasy when Uli didn’t respond to his greeting. He hoped he hadn’t done anything to offend her.
“My princess?” He was tempted to touch her arm but he controlled himself. He couldn’t let her know the way he felt. He didn’t want to raise her hopes and hurt hr later.
Slowly, Uli opened her eyes and released the breath she held. She could perceive his clean and masculine scent. It was the smell of a strong man. She wished she could hold his arms and place her head upon his hard chest. She wished she could run her finger across his hairy face.
“Good morning,” she turned around and faced him.
“Um, how are you today?” Chinedum stuttered, not knowing what next to say.
“I am good, thank you.” She replied. The princess pondered on the latest information that she had gotten. She needed to tell him about it so that he would prepare himself but this wasn’t the right environment.
Quickly she grabbed his hand and led him outside the palace. Chinedum didn’t protest or ask any questions. He allowed the princess to lead him until they were far away from the palace. The feel of her soft palms against his hand was pleasurable. He wished he could sweep her into his arms and spin her round. Again, he felt guilty and quickly pushed the thoughts away.
“My brother plans to sacrifice Adaora tonight. He plans to activate the powers of the dagger.” Uli began after releasing his hand.
He scoffed and moved backwards.
“But that isn’t possible. You are still observing the ritual of cleansing. We still have time.” Chinedum was surprised at the suddenness in the King’s plan.
Uli laughed, “I told you, I know my brother. He can be likened to the chameleon. He changes his color like a woman in mourning clothes. I knew he was up to something. But I was two steps ahead of him.” She smiled as she recalled her meeting with the chief priest some days ago.
The princess had paid a little visit to Igwekala at midnight with her trusted guard, Okorie. There were only two people that the King listened to. The first was Efuru, their mother and the second was the chief priest. Uli knew her mother was bound to Chiemelie, she could even sacrifice her life to see him on the throne. Igwekala on the other hand, had no such loyalty. The greedy priest only cared about his belly. From the first day Chinedum had walked into the palace, she had noticed how skeptical her brother had been. Soon, he would start asking questions about him.
“I had to bribe the chief priest not to say anything about you. Knowing my brother quite well, he was going to consult the oracle about you. He is not a fool.”
Chinedum finally understood why they needed the princess on their side.
“So what do we do now?”
Uli shrugged, “I have information that Igwekala has delivered his promise to me. We have to take the dagger swiftly before he changes his mind. If Chiemelie finds out that the priest tricked him, everyone concerned in this plot would be put to death.”
As she spoke, Chinedum couldn’t help but wonder why Uli was so different from her brother. He had found it difficult to trust her at first, but she was very concerned about justice and rescuing the moon virgin.
“Why are you so passionate about this fight?” He adored her more for her passion.
Blood tweaked her cheeks as she felt cornered. She was suddenly shy as she realized that they were alone.
“I have watched along the years how my brother brutally killed innocent women, men and children while in search of the ancient dagger. He is a blood thirsty man and if he is allowed to rule both kingdoms, many people will perish.”
He nodded as he listened to her, when she finished he asked another question.
“So how do we retrieve the dagger now?”
“I don’t know for sure, but we must try our best to retrieve it before midnight comes. You will flee to Ezeudo with Adaora and Oriaku. If my brother realizes that his dagger is missing, you will be the first suspect.”
His heart missed a beat when he heard the word, ‘flee.’ Chinedum had gotten used to her. Leaving her behind wasn’t going to be easy because she had grown on him.
“How do you intend to face your brother’s wrath when we are gone?” He couldn’t think of any harm befalling her. He’d rather take her with him than let her stay behind.
Uli was surprised that he showed concern for her.
“Some of us are meant to sacrifice for others. I am not afraid of death. If I die by my brother’s hands, I will know that I died a worthy death. I died in trying to save my people.”
Though he loved the heroic words that poured from her lips, he wasn’t comfortable with that arrangement. He reached for her hands and collected them. His eyes fell upon her face. He didn’t look away this time; he stared deeply into her eyes.
“I will not leave you behind.”
Uli was afraid to return his penetrating gaze. Already, this stranger had a special place in her heart. She stared at the trees behind them instead.
“I have already made up my mind to stay back. Ezeudo is not my home. The people will not welcome me there.” With this, she pulled her arms away from him and made ready for the shrine where she intended to finalize her payment to Igwekala for playing his part.
At that moment, Chinedum couldn’t hold back his feelings for her. He couldn’t imagine the guilt that would plague him should he leave the princess behind and at the mercy of her brother. He grabbed her arm and turned her around.
Anger flashed in Uli’s eyes when he pushed her to himself. What exactly did Chinedum want from her? Why was he making things difficult for both of them? She was trying her best to avoid him. She didn’t want to make a fool of herself.
“I must go now!” She snapped at him.
“I know…” He leaned closer and bruised her soft lips with his wet mouth.
At first there was a struggle. Uli had not seen this coming. She had tried to fight it, but her desire for him overshadowed every inhibition that she had imagined. She encircled his shoulders with her arms. He drew her soft body closer to him and deepened the kiss. He slipped his tongue into the well of her mouth and ensured that the kiss was passionate and pleasurable for them both. They were deeply engrossed in their kiss that they failed to see the person coming. It was the whistling of the wind that brought them back to reality.
Uli pressed a shaky hand against her chest as she looked into his eyes. She found it difficult to believe what had just happened.
“Stay away from me!” She waved a finger over Chinedum’s face before scurrying away.
“No! Wait!” Chinedum felt horrible as he realized that she hadn’t enjoyed the kiss. He had bridged her privacy and made an utter fool of himself.
It was then that the watcher decided to announce her presence.
“Master!” Adaora cleared her throat. She had been searching the place for the two when some guards informed her that they had just stepped out of the palace. The sight of their romance hadn’t come as a shock to her. It pleased her to see that they were both happy. But she was worried about the princess. She didn’t know her master’s plans, but she needed to warn Uli about Obiajulu’s wicked nature.
“Let her go!” Adaora bellowed. Obviously, the princess was in shock as the kiss had happened very fast. Chinedum stood still when he heard Adaora’s voice; he was shocked to see her there. He felt embarrassed.

TO BE CONTINUED

Story By Davina Diaries
Posted by: Miss Ifeoluwa
« on: January 19, 2020, 03:53:00 AM »

Goddess Of The Sun (Adaora Part 2) - Episode 28

Goddess Of The Sun (Adaora Part 2) - Episode 28

Uli sighed, “what about Chinedum?” She rubbed her chin thoughtfully, wondering where the moon virgin was?
Oriaku gave the same answer. When the princess was about leaving, she grabbed her arm gently and asked if everything was alright. At first, Uli hadn’t wanted to share her latest discovery with the strange woman. But she recalled that Oriaku could be trusted.
“My brother and I have always fought for the throne of Amabara. Chiemelie’s evil nature has turned his people against him. I am on the side of the people of Ezeudo and I will fight with them to restore justice. I am sure you have heard about the ancient dagger of Ituri…” She watched the woman’s face closely, to know whether to continue or not.
Oriaku nodded. Adaora had filled her in on everything that had happened on the land.
“The dagger must be retrieved today if we are to conquer Chiemelie. Find me Adaora, I am off to see someone.” She swirled round and walked away from the woman without second thoughts.
Oriaku had a feeling that the princess wasn’t telling her the truth. Danger was lurking at the corner and she was in the middle of it. The gods had blessed her with luck the first time, she may not be lucky the second time. As she pondered on the next step to take, she thought of running back to Ezeudo. The morning was bright and filled with hope, she could still make it. But the fear of being seen by Anosike and Obiajulu terrified her. She couldn’t abandon Chinedum and Adaora in strange territory, the King would ask her many questions.
“I have to find Adaora before it is too late.”
She pulled in a deep breath and rushed towards Adaora’s hut.
The moon virgin had stepped out of her hut briefly to fetch some herbs from the bush. This was the reason Uli had missed her earlier. Adaora had felt very uneasy from the moment she had woken up, but she couldn’t place a finger around the anxiety that plagued her. She had decided to collect some herbs which would help with the princess’ wound in a move to distract her mind from what she was feeling. She had prayed to the goddess to take this feeling away from her or explain what was happening to her…
“Please show yourself to me,” she prayed but there was no answer.
As she marched towards her hut, she caught Oriaku’s figure leaning towards her door. A smile radiated on her beautiful face as she increased her steps towards the good woman.
“Good morning!” Adaora called happily. From the look of things, Oriaku was recovering fast. Her skin had regained its lovely glow and her eyes were warm with happiness.
Oriaku returned the smile, “I have searched everywhere for you beautiful one. Where have you been?”
Adaora raised the herbs she carried as an answer.
“I fetched this to help the princess.” She sensed Oriaku had come to tell her something, but she didn’t want to force it.
“Is something wrong?” Adaora dropped the leaves in a basket that stood next to her door.
Oriaku moved closer and in a whisper informed Adaora of Uli’s request.
“The princess came to my hut this morning. She seemed worried about something. She really wanted to see you. She is out of the palace currently but I sensed what she had to tell you is extremely important. She was also in search of Chinedum.”
At first, the sight of Oriaku had reduced the anxiety she felt. But hearing about Uli’s request to see her, made her blood boil more. Oriaku was right. She could feel her blood rippling. She could perceive the stench of her fear. What hurt her most was the fact that Ituri was silent in this time where she really needed her.
“Please! Show yourself to me, do not leave me in the dark!” She raised her hands into the air and cried.
Oriaku bowed her head quietly as the moon virgin prayed. This confirmed her fears that she wasn’t the only one feeling scared. Something evil flew in the air and if it wasn’t stopped, it will consume them all.
Tears stung Adaora’s eyes as she stared at the empty sky. There was no call or answer in the wind. There was no response in the clouds. All the elements of divine nature ignored her cries for help. She sucked in a deep breath and decided that she had to meet Uli to find out what exactly was going on.
“Go back to your hut and wait there. I have to find my master and the princess.”
Oriaku shook her head, “no, I cannot leave you alone. I am uncomfortable around here. Why don’t we stick together?”
Adaora didn’t like the idea of a recovering Obiajulu following her about.
“Please, stay here until I figure out what is going on in this palace.” Adaora didn’t wait for the woman to argue another time. She spun on her heel and walked away. She needed to find her master and Uli before it was too late.
As the moon virgin walked away, she failed to see the figures that stood before her door. A dark skinned woman dressed in a golden gown with serpents on her shoulders stood next to a light skinned man whose face glowed like the son. The gods were present; they had heard her cry but they were willing to let mortals fight on their own.
“Are you sure we shouldn’t help her?” Anyanwu, the god of the sun asked his counterpart.
Ituri chuckled, “if we are too swift to help mortals, they wouldn’t think for themselves. They would become lazy and dependent. Adaora is a worthy vessel and she has always had our help. She must fight alone for some time…”
“But you are aware that the sacrifice would take place tonight? That evil King would become possessed by the powers of your dagger. He would destroy the world with it.” The god of the sun replied.
Ituri shrugged, “We will help when time comes. For now, we stay in the background.”
Oriaku sensed she wasn’t alone at where she stood. She ran her eyes over her surrounding, it felt like someone was watching her but she couldn’t see anyone.
“What do we do with this one? She has suffered enough…” Ituri pointed at the mortal that stood before them.
“She is broken and battered by a mortal man. I wish my daughters would be more thoughtful when they accept proposals from men…” she began to play with the pythons that lay upon her shoulders.
Anyanwu raised a thick brow. His dark brown eyes glowed in amusement.
“When a woman is good, she becomes your daughter…when a man is bad, you call him my son.”
“But Oriaku is a good woman. She must be rewarded.” Ituri replied.
“Yes. She has waited this long for us. She has sacrificed many times for a child. I think it is time to bless her…”
“How do we begin?” Ituri chuckled.
“First, we bless her with a man who will love and respect her. When we are done with this, we bless her with a child.”
Oriaku felt afraid as they sensation of being watched increased. She decided to return to her hut until the moon virgin showed up for her again. As she walked away, her eyes were focused on the ground. So she failed to see the hefty man that approached. It was when her head bumped into something hard that she raised her head.
“Um, sorry…” she apologized to the man before scurrying back to her hut.
The man was the chief guard in the palace. His name was Okorie and his eyes had been on the beautiful stranger from the first time her body was brought from the river. He was tempted to call her back, but he decided to meet with her another time. Currently, he was walking around and eavesdropping for princess Uli. He had been the one that disclosed her brother’s latest plan. Like many of the kingdom dwellers, Okorie was more loyal to the princess than her brother whom everyone feared.
The princess had been heading towards the shrine to meet with Igwekala when she heard her name. At the sound of the deep baritone, a burning sensation started in her chest area. There was only one man that had such a powerful effect on her. Lately, Uli had decided to stay away from Chinedum. He was a married man with children and she could never stand a chance. Adaora had told her a bit about the stranger’s wife. She was the most beautiful woman in Ezeudo and he was very loyal to her. The princess was certain that Chinedum wasn’t the man for her. She had decided on saving Adaora and getting her back to safety. She had also decided to fight her brother for the throne. The people of Amabara deserved a better ruler and some of those who secretly supported her had suggested that she be the next ruler.

TO BE CONTINUED

Story By Davina Diaries
Posted by: Miss Ifeoluwa
« on: January 19, 2020, 03:49:32 AM »

Goddess Of The Sun (Adaora Part 2) - Episode 27

Goddess Of The Sun (Adaora Part 2) - Episode 27

As Uli neared the shrine, she thought it was weird that she didn’t hear any bleating of goats and crying of sheep. The shrine was usually filled with animals that people brought in for sacrifices. At first, she had wanted to turn back, thinking that the priest wasn’t around. But she decided to forge ahead, because there was no time. Already, the mild morning sun was replaced by a scorching yellow sun. Soon, the birds would return to their homes, the noon would flee and twilight would be upon the land. Once she was finished with Igwekala, she would return to the palace to meet up with Adaora and Chinedum.
She pressed a shaky hand on her lips, the place where he had kissed her. She closed her eyes briefly and opened them again as she remembered the sweetness of his mouth. She had enjoyed every bit of the kiss and the warmth of his arms. But she had felt ashamed after that. What if Chinedum only wanted to lure her into his bed because he was lonely? She shuddered at the thought of being used by the man.
Slowly, she exhaled.
“You need to focus Uli,” she whispered to herself.
She inhaled a deep breath for focus and advanced towards the shrine. She noted the calabash trees that surrounded the entrance. She could sense the presence of the earth spirits as she neared the trees. Again, she felt something wasn’t right. If the goats weren’t bleating, she would’ve heard Igwekala’s voice. The man never ceased to communicate with the spirits. His chants were endless and so were the clashing of the cowries.
She decided that she was afraid and fear was only for the weak.
“The great oracle of Amabara!” She dug a hand into her wrapper and fetched the cowries that she owed him.
Confidently, she marched towards the main area where the shrine was located. If only she had listened to her intuition, she would have avoided the trap that was set before her. But it was too late. The princess first noticed the way the shrine had been dismantled. She noticed that some of the carvings of the gods were thrown to the ground. The mirrors and the earthen pots were set aflame.
At that moment, the cowries fell from her hands.
“Igwekala!” She called in a loud voice but there was no answer. In her confusion, she hadn’t listened to the footsteps that came from behind. When a cold palm touched her back, she froze. She froze because she knew the wielder of that palm.
“My darling sister…”
“No,” Uli’s lips moved silently.
Chiemelie was behind her.
“Are you afraid to face me?” He mocked.
Chiemelie’s presence only meant one thing. He had discovered her alliance with the priest and he had come to punish them both. Only five people knew of her plan, perhaps one had betrayed her. She thought of Adaora, Chinedum, Okorie, Igwekala and Oriaku. One of these people must have told the King of her plans to ascend the throne and destroy him.
“Don’t be stupid Uli, I have many eyes in the palace, so don’t think your little friends gave you up.” He spoke like he had read her thoughts.
Uli was ready to bear the consequences of her actions, but her prayer was for Adaora’s safety and all those who came with her. She turned around and faced her brother.
“What did you do with Igwekala? What did you do to the priest? You destroyed the shrine of our forefathers; do you intend to live for long?”
He didn’t respond. He pulled out the dagger of the moon goddess from his pocket and lifted it up, so the rays of the sun would pass through it.
“I knew something was wrong with Igwekala today. He isn’t a very good liar and he tried to deceive me. He came to me with a false message when the gods hadn’t spoken to him. He told me to end the cleansing ritual and sacrifice the moon virgin today…but that wasn’t the instructions all along. Do you remember that I had to marry her first before sacrificing her?” He began to encircle the princess.
Uli swallowed the bitter lump that clogged her throat as she thought of the priest. It was her idea that he lie to the King. It was because of her that he was in trouble.
“Igwekala wasn’t acting on his orders. I sent him. I threatened him to lie to you…” she began in a shaky voice as he placed the dagger on her bare skin.
The King sighed.
“I knew he was lying to me when he refused to tell me about the stranger that rescued you. From my findings, Chinedum is a direct relative of Ikemba. Do you know the joy that brings me? I will rip him apart and send his bones to the King of Ezeudo.”
Uli trembled when she heard this. Chiemelie had discovered that Chinedum’s real name wasn’t Ezechi. Truly, she had underestimated her brother. He was smarter than she’d thought. But she couldn’t let him hurt Chinedum.
“You cannot harm him. He saved my life. Have honor for once in your life!” She yelled.
He shrugged, “You betrayed me. You had your eyes on my throne. What gave you the impression that a woman would ever sit on the throne of Amabara? You women think you can tread the paths that men take.” He guffawed.
Uli decided that she was tired of dancing around with him. She was ready to face her brother no matter what happened.
“You are right about me wanting to take your throne. I was our father’s favorite and I had always wished to take over from him. You are a cruel person and you have shown the people of Amabara cruelty. They do not love you as you think. They are only afraid of you.”
He didn’t care about what his people thought of him.
“A ruler doesn’t need the love of his people. A prince lives to inspire fear.”
“Fear?” She moved away from him, so he wouldn’t circle her anymore.
“The problem with our land isn’t Ezeudo. You and your wicked ways have been the problem. The gods have turned their backs on you. Even if you kill me, you will never be as perfect as Ikemba.”
His sister’s words stung like an annoying insect. He feared the reality of Ikemba ruling over him. This was the reason he had been so determined to possess the powers of the dagger.
“Bring him out!” Chiemelie screamed.
He turned to her, “I will kill him before your eyes. And then I will go after that stupid lover of yours. I will kill the moon virgin for my satisfaction. Already, my men are after her. You will live with the memories of their deaths. That, my dear sister, is the gifts I shall leave you with.”
Tears stung her eyes as she stared into his dark eyes.
“You are an evil wind, destroying everything that is put in your path.”
“I agree. I am an evil wind and I will sweep all my enemies away.”
Tears rolled down her cheeks as she watched Igwekala and his serving girls and boys being dragged out by the royal guards. The oracle had been severely beaten by the King’s men. They had surrounded the shrine unknown to him and arrested everyone. The animals reserved for sacrifices had been slaughtered. Everything had been destroyed.
“You desecrate the altar that once protected you!” Igwekala poured his blood stained saliva on the ground.
He didn’t have any regrets for standing by Uli. Many dwellers of Amabara had complained to him about Chiemelie’s wicked ways, but he had been too afraid to confront the brute king.
“You will pay for this and all your bloodshed!”
Chiemelie laughed, “You were the one that told me that the land needed blood, you cannot turn this on me.”
“No, I told you what you wanted to hear. The gods have rejected you and handed your crown to your sister. You shall be defeated today. Your time isn’t long.”
Angrily, Chiemelie launched the dagger towards the oracle. It struck the man in his chest.
“No!!!” The princess rushed towards Igwekala, but the royal guards pushed her away.
The oracle gritted his teeth as the pain shot into him. Blood oozed from his nostrils and his eyes.
“The gods have named you as the true Queen of Amabara. You must make peace with the good King of Ezeudo. You must reconcile the people of Amabara and Ezeudo, for they are brothers from the same mother.” When the oracle had finished speaking, his eyes closed and his head sank upon his shoulders. His servants began to wail when they realized that the priest had been slain.
Chiemelie covered the distance and quickly pulled out the dagger from the man. He grabbed Uli by hair and raised her, so she could stand next to him.
“I will be a dead man before I let you take what belongs to me.”
Just in time, Chinedum arrived at the shrine. It didn’t take him too long to realize what was happening.
“Let her go!” He raised his machete into the air.
Uli’s lips trembled as she sobbed.
“Please run, run far away or he will kill you! He knows that you are Ikemba’s blood.”
Chinedum ignored the wails of the princess. He counted the hefty guards that were with the King. He could take them all.
“Release her!” He thundered.
Chiemelie scoffed and turned to his guards.
“Give me his head.”
Chinedum’s blood boiled as he stared at the wicked King. He could tell that Uli was in pain from the way he held her hair. Determinedly, he tightened his fingers around his machete. He would slay them all for his princess. The guards abandoned the servants of the fallen priest and all rushed to attack Chinedum.
“Please, you don’t have to do this. You can kill me but let him go.” Uli began to beg her brother.
“No, I want you to watch…”

TO BE CONTINUED

Story By Davina diaries
Posted by: Miss Ifeoluwa
« on: January 19, 2020, 03:46:19 AM »

Goddess Of The Sun (Adaora Part 2) - Episode 26

Goddess Of The Sun (Adaora Part 2) - Episode 26

He was supposed to feel angry that the King had treated him unjustly, but he wasn’t. A part of him knew that it was time to pay for all the sins that he had committed against his wife. Anosike preferred being locked in the dungeon, than living in an empty house which was a constant reminded of the part he played in Oriaku’s murder.
After Ifeoma had made the announcement, she had expected the King to show some kind of concern or shock because the woman in question was his cousin’s wife. But his features were fixed. He gritted his teeth and returned to the throne room.
Underneath his breath, he praised the gods for the justice they had carried out. Ezeudo would soon rise from the ashes, and the gods were leading the way in this fire of purification.
“May the gods be praised,” he whispered.
He silently dropped a prayer for Chinedum. He prayed that the gods assisted him in retrieving the ancient dagger. He also prayed that the gods would help Chinedum get over the news of his wife’s infidelity.
Two days had passed since two strangers had come to Amabara. The first was the woman that had been found by the stream. The King and the oracle were yet to speak to the woman as they were still observing the cleansing ritual. Though Chiemelie wasn’t really bothered about the woman presence, he was disturbed about the strange man that had rescued his sister at the forest. Though Ezechi had sworn allegiance to him, he still found it difficult to trust the man. There was something about him. And for a night, the King couldn’t sleep. This was the reason that Chiemelie had quickly sent for the oracle. He needed to carry out an investigation on the stranger.
“May the King reign forever!” Efuru bowed before her son. The morning arose with a gift of a bright sun. The Queen was usually the first person to greet the King, this was the tradition of the people. She had come with a little calabash containing fresh bitter-kola nuts and colorful pepper fruits. They were his favorite fruits. However, the older woman paused in her steps as she noticed the look on her son’s face. Something was definitely troubling him. She ran her eyes over the palace and sighed in relief when she discovered that the dagger of Ituri was still in place. For it was with this priceless piece that Ezeudo would be conquered.
“What worries you child?” She dropped the calabash gently and sat next to him.
Whenever he was worried, he preferred to be left alone. But he couldn’t turn his mother away. She was the only person that truly understood him.
“It is that stranger that rescued Uli. I have a bad feeling about him. Though he hasn’t done anything evil to me, I feel worried.”
Efuru smiled and warmed his arm with her motherly touch.
“You terrified me! I thought something grave had happened. What reason do you have to suspect the man that saved your sister?” Efuru wasn’t too pleased with her son’s thinking pattern.
He shrugged, “I don’t know why but my guts never fail me. I have sent for Igwekala. I will have my answers soon.”
The Queen wasn’t sure this was a good idea, but she didn’t want to argue with her son.
“Once the cleansing ritual is over, we shall resume our plans to attack Ezeudo. We will spare no one. We will bring them under us.” She bragged.
Chiemelie’s face brightened with a smile. He loved his mother very much because they had similar views. Same couldn’t be said about his sister, Uli.
“I can hardly wait.”
Efuru was about to leave the King’s presence, when the oracle sauntered in. Igwekala had never been counted as a handsome man. But this morning, his face seemed uglier than before. Perhaps it was the black dye that he had applied on one side of his face, or it was the terrible frown that he wore.
“Long live the King!” The priest bowed.
“Rise, great oracle of the gods,” the King commanded.
The queen remained silent in their exchange. She waited to hear what Igwekala would say about Ezechi, the one whom the gods had sent to rescue her Uli from the arms of death.
“I sent for you for a purpose,” Chiemelie began but was immediately interrupted by the oracle.
Igwekala raised his left palm into the air.
“Say no more! I know why you sent for me. You are worried about the man that saved your sister. Your spirit is troubled because of him.”
Chiemelie nodded, “The gods have read my mind then.”
“Yes they have. And they sent me to deliver this message to you.”
The queen and her son leaned forward to get the warning of the gods.
“The gods are on your side in this war. They have revealed a heinous plan by some people to steal the ancient dagger of Ituri. The gods have grown impatient; they desire to drink the blood of Adaora. We cannot complete the seven days of cleansing. We must sacrifice the moon virgin tonight for the dagger to come alive. The enemies are already upon us, the enemies are already here and they have infiltrated your household.”
The room was silent as mother and son exchanged glares. Chiemelie hadn’t expected this sort of grave warning from the gods.
“What about Ezechi? Is he a part of this ploy? Who are the members of my household that seek to betray me?” Chiemelie’s temper rose with each word he pronounced. He gritted his teeth angrily as he considered this unlikely plot which failed from its conception. How could anyone even think of stealing the dagger? How could they think of winning this war?
The oracle laughed. He stared up and looked down. He stamped his feet thrice before speaking.
“The gods have nothing to say about him. I have searched their thoughts but a wall seems to protect him. I fear he may not be human.”
“Ehn!” The queen rose to her feet.
Chiemelie leaned against the throne as he considered Igwekala’s words. If the gods had failed to reveal anything about this man, perhaps the man was a god!
“What about the members of my household that seeks to betray me?” Chiemelie was more interested in this. If the gods revealed their names, he would burn them alive in the middle of the kingdom, so that all others would learn of the punishment of betrayal.
“I have no more words from you! But you must take the moon virgin to the place where the moon begins. You shall strike her seven times with the ancient dagger of Ituri. With her blood smeared on the knife, you shall cut yourself with it and the powers of the moon goddess shall come upon you. This is the only way we can win this war.”
Without waste of time, the oracle turned his back on the royals and walked out of the palace. While Chiemelie thought of the glory that awaited him; after his conquest, his mother was more concerned about the revelations.
“I think something strange is going on. The gods have never hidden any message from us.” She thought about Igwekala’s inability to access the thoughts of the gods concerning those who planned to steal the dagger and the members of the royal family that were part of that plan.
“The gods must not talk all the time. I have the information that I need. Prepare yourself tonight. You will be present when I get my powers.” He walked towards the place where the dagger was kept and began to encircle it. He couldn’t wait for midnight to come.
The queen sensed her son’s unwillingness to discuss the matter at hand. Everything was wrong about Igwekala’s revelations. Never in a time of history had the people abandoned ritual or stopped halfway. But she decided to let the matter die. She would prepare herself for the ritual later at night.
“The moon virgin must not hear about this. Do not say a word to Uli, because of her closeness,” she advised her son.
“I won’t hesitate to lock her up until midnight.”
The morning had started on a good note for Oriaku. She felt at home here in Amabara. And this was possible because of Adaora’s presence and Chinedum’s. She also cherished the warm welcome that she was given by princess Uli and her servants. She took a deep breath from the fresh morning air as she stepped out of her hut. Adaora had assured her that they would leave for Ezeudo soon. It was just a matter of time before she returned to her homeland to face her traitor of a husband and Obiajulu. The gods had protected her against Obiajulu’s venom, this showed that they had purpose for her life. She knew that Ikemba favored her and would believe her every word. As she strolled around the secluded area of the palace, Oriaku was oblivious of the fact that the gods were already fighting her battles.
It was the princess that she saw first. Uli’s face was contorted by a deep frown as she marched towards Oriaku. From the swiftness in her steps, things weren’t alright. Oriaku’s heart leapt, she prayed that Adaora was safe.
“Good morning my royalty,” she bowed slightly.
Uli waved her greeting aside, “where is Adaora?” Her voice was shaky and full of fear.
Oriaku swallowed, she hadn’t seen Adaora that morning.
“I haven’t seen her.”

TO BE CONTINUED

Story By Davina Diaries
Posted by: Miss Ifeoluwa
« on: January 18, 2020, 03:58:16 AM »

Goddess Of The Sun (Adaora Part 2) - Episode 25

Goddess Of The Sun (Adaora Part 2) - Episode 25

“Please, I beg of you. There is a great fire that would soon consume my household. It is the fire of shame and destruction. I need you to help me. I am ready to do anything you want.” She rubbed her palms together.
The old woman scoffed, “You come to me because your husband’s heart is no longer with you. You come to me when Anosike has abandoned you. You are a shameless woman!”
Obiajulu began to cry at this point. She had come to the shrine for help and not for more rebuke.
“I know all these already! I know that I have erred. But how long would I plead for my sins? I know that I have sinned against you mother, but you must help me out. My mother’s soul would be glad that you did…” Obiajulu buried her head on the wrinkled feet of the woman.
The old woman grimaced.
“Don’t use your mother’s soul to pacify me, daughter of Anwulika. You abandoned me like the rest of Ezeudo. I bore the punishment of your rejection. How can I trust you another time?”
Obiajulu raised her head, “You must bring my husband’s heart to me. You must drop his heart in the middle of my palms. You must make Anosike run mad for the way he treated me. And you must kill my slave girl…” She said all these in a rush.
The woman laughed, “Do you know what you are asking for?”
Obiajulu didn’t reply.
“You can do anything. Please, you must help me out.” She begged.
The old woman stared at the river before saying another word. She communed with the river goddess in her mind.
“I cannot kill the slave girl. The goddess tells me that she is to be untouched. I cannot bring back your husband’s love because his heart is already beating for another. But I can make Anosike mad…” The woman began to laugh as she saw a vision of Obiajulu dragging Oriaku’s body to a river. The woman before her was a terrible being, but she would help her anyway.
Obiajulu gritted her teeth as she thought about Chinedum.
“Please…you have to give me his heart. Please…”
“You are a very greedy woman Obiajulu. You once bought his love but you trampled it. You cheated on Anosike and attempted to kill his wife. Mmiliulo could be an impulsive and mischievous goddess but she is not one to give injustice.”
Suddenly, the old woman’s eyes were charged with a golden flame as the spirit of the goddess had taken possession of her.
“Your husband would never love you again. You are a vile woman!” The woman sneered at her.
Obiajulu began to shiver as she realized that the odds were against her.
“Please…he must never find out that I cheated on him.”
“HAHAHA!” The woman laughed.
“Very well then, you have come to the place for your justice.”
Before Obiajulu could sense what was happening, the old woman stepped away from her serving girls and touched her forehead swiftly. A warm sensation ran through her and it felt like she had been kissed by fire. The warmness vanished and was quickly replaced by a burning sensation which spread through her entire body.
“What is happening to me?” Obiajulu ran her hands over her skin but that only made it worse.
The burning sensation travelled from her legs to her torso and stopped at her temple. Before she could lay another complained, she felt a sharp pain in her eyes. This was followed by blurred vision.
“Amumma! What have you done?” Obiajulu rose to her feet.
“What needs to be done to someone like you!” The woman shifted back.
Obiajulu was about to launch a slap at the old fool when everything turned black. She found it difficult to see because she had just lost her sight.
“No! I cannot see!!!” She screamed with everything in her.
“Lead her to the middle of the Kingdom. She would be found by a kind stranger until she reaches home. Her punishment shall remain forever. She would wish for death, but death would not find her.” The old priestess gave orders to her girls.
The oracle was too stunned to say anything as she realized that the poisonous tree at the entrance of Chinedum’s compound was Obiajulu.
“What a terrible woman!”
“I feel another presence here. Show yourself!” Amumma scooped some sand by the river bank and tossed it into the air.
The oracle couldn’t hide anymore. Slowly, the veil between the spirit world and the physical world was torn.
“What do you want in my territory?” The old woman staggered as she realized who had come. The father of the oracle in conglomeration with the elders of the village had banished her and burnt the old shrine.
“I come in peace. I was brought here by the gods. I shall leave now,” the oracle whispered.
The old woman nodded and bowed.
“Go in peace!”
The King had been afraid that the spirit of the oracle was completely gone when her body had fallen on the ground. But she sneezed almost immediately the thought crossed his mind.
“I know the evil tree! The gods have brought her justice!”
“Who is the evil tree?” Ikemba leaned forward.
The oracle guffawed as she searched the faces of her cowries.
“You wouldn’t believe a word of what the gods have revealed.”
“Tell me!” Ikemba held his heart in his mouth, hoping that Chinedum wasn’t the evil tree.
The oracle sighed, “Obiajulu is the evil tree. She and Anosike have defiled the land with their atrocities. They have been sleeping with each other. When Oriaku discovered what her husband was doing behind her, she confronted him and got stabbed by Obiajulu. Together, they dragged her body to the river, hoping she was dead. But the gods aren’t unjust. She lives!”
Ikemba was stunned as he watched the oracle relate what she had seen.
“How is this possible? How can that vain woman cheat on my cousin? He has loved her all these years and has been faithful to her.”
“She stole his heart with some rituals. She still sacrifices to Mmiriulo, the forbidden goddess of Ezeudo.”
Ikemba rose at once.
“Enough! Obiajulu must pay for her crime.”
“The gods have already begun their justice,” the oracle tossed her cowries on the ground.
After his quarrel with Obiajulu, Anosike had headed towards the palace with some farmers who bore harvests for the King. He knew that his men had erred, but he knew that Ikemba was a merciful King. He was ready to plead on their behalf.
While Ikemba circled the throne room, he heard his guards barking orders. When he raised his head, his blood boiled as he realized that Anosike had come.
“Let him in!” Ikemba stepped out of the throne room and ordered the guards.
From the look of things, Anosike thought that he was welcomed. Eagerly, he marched towards the King with his farmers along many baskets.
“May you live long great Lion of Ezeudo!” He bowed his head.
Ikemba clenched his fists and stared at the foolish man. He didn’t deserve a good woman like Oriaku. A man that slept with his friend’s wife lacked honor for himself and for his friend. He was the lowest of all men.
“Anosike, the great farmer,” the King praised him as well.
Gladly, the farmer rose to his feet wearing a confident smile upon his face.
“We have come bearing gifts. These are the finest produce from my barns. I hope the King is pleased.” Anosike offered another bow.
Ikemba nodded and raised his staff.
“I will accept your gift but I’d like to see your wife. My mother has missed her.”
Anosike felt a sharp pain in his chest. The King’s desire to see Oriaku had unsettled him.
“Um, she…um, she travelled to see her people.” He replied.
Ikemba shrugged, “Surely, you can send some of your men to bring her back. I must see her before nightfall.” Ikemba’s eyes were on the man’s face the whole time. It was obvious that Anosike had a lot to hide for he could no longer hold the gaze of the King.
There was no need of wasting time. Ikemba snapped his fingers.
“Take this man to the dungeons. He shall be brought out when Chinedum returns.”
The basket Anosike carried fell from his hands.
“No, I don’t understand my offence. All I came here to do was make peace with my King.”
“I know. But sometimes what Kings truly desire is war.”
“What is my offence?” Anosike struggled with the guards.
Ikemba turned his back on the evil man. He hadn’t taken more than three steps when he heard loud screaming of female voices. He paused and swirled around. Just in time, Ifeoma, one of his servants rushed in.
“Why is there so much screaming?” The King barked at her.
In a rush of breath, Ifeoma’s knees sank to the ground.
“My King, you will not believe this.”
“Obiajulu, the daughter of Anwuli and the wife of your cousin Chinedum, has lost her sight.”
Anosike froze when he learned of this. He no longer resisted the guards who dragged him and his men towards the dungeon.

TO BE CONTINUED

Story by Davina diaries
Posted by: Miss Ifeoluwa
« on: January 18, 2020, 03:55:14 AM »

Goddess Of The Sun (Adaora Part 2) - Episode 24

At this point, thunder clapped and the clouds began to race. When the oracle turned around, her heart skipped as she realized that Chinedum’s wife had come to consult the forbidden goddess.
“You come to me when all hope is lost. When there was hope and you were eating and growing fat, where did you keep me?” Amumma scorned. She remembered Obiajulu vividly. Before her marriage into the royal family, her mother had brought her to the river for a bath. Seven rituals had been carried out so she could give birth to sons and daughters; the rituals had also been to capture her husband’s heart completely. But Obiajulu had failed to keep to her promise.
Many hours had passed and Adaora remained totally speechless. She couldn’t believe a word that Anosike’s wife had spoken. It was unbelievable that Obiajulu could be that wicked.
“It seems you do not believe me…” Oriaku sobbed.
Adaora pulled in a deep breath, “I know she is a cruel woman but I didn’t know she was cheating on her husband. I didn’t know she had tried to kill you.”
Oriaku shrugged, she couldn’t blame the moon virgin for not believing her.
“I had known for a long time that my husband’s heart wasn’t with me anymore. I felt it deep within. Anosike’s love had been bought by another woman. It was Okeke that revealed the identity of the woman. At first, I found it difficult to believe just as you. But I once saw them in the farm. Obiajulu is a very wicked woman and she has blinded my husband. I must return and tell Ikemba about them.”
At the mention of the King’s name, Adaora’s heart fluttered. She realized that she hadn’t seen his face in her dreams for a while. She had also not thought about him. All her attention had been on how to retrieve the sacred dagger from Amabara. Her heart softened as she thought of the man the gods had destined her to be with.
“What is that smile?” Oriaku noticed the glow of affection in Adaora’s eyes.
“Nothing,” Adaora blushed.
If not for the wound that was very slow in healing, Oriaku would’ve laughed at Adaora.
“From the first night I saw you, I knew there was something special about you. I am happy that I didn’t maltreat you. Soon, you will be the Queen of Ezeudo and I shall be the Queen’s friend.” She managed a weak smile.
Adaora couldn’t help but laugh. She rested her head on the shoulder of the wounded woman.
“All our dreams shall come to pass.”
Oriaku agreed with her.
“Obiajulu was very certain that she’d killed me. I found myself by the river bank at midnight. One of the fishermen had seen me. At first, he had thought me an evil spirit trying to lure him into a trap, but the gods blessed his heart and he took me into his canoe. My mind was blank after that. I woke up beside the river of Amabara, I don’t know how I got here. Perhaps, the gods brought me here for a reason.”
Adaora sighed, “What on earth did she want to achieve by killing you? Surely the gods of Ezeudo aren’t dead. She has committed a grievous offence and she would pay for it.”
Oriaku smiled knowing that Obiajulu would be severely punished for her crime.
“Obiajulu is a very selfish and wicked woman. When she first got married to Chinedum, there were rumors that she trapped him inside a calabash. She has her husband’s heart in her palms, and I know she must have bewitched Anosike as well.”
Adaora cringed as she remembered her first night at Oriaku’s house. Adaora had lost respect for the farmer for beating his wife like an animal. She felt angrier as she realized that Oriaku hadn’t wronged him. Her only crime was speaking against his illicit affair with Obiajulu.
“The gods would vindicate you.” Adaora warmed the woman’s heart with her words.
“Thank you for your words.”
Adaora knew the next information she was about to share would shock Oriaku, but it would guide her decision concerning Obiajulu’s matter.
“There’s something I want to tell you,” Adaora rose to her feet and walked towards the entrance of the hut.
“What is that?” The woman searched Adaora’s eyes.
“I am the moon virgin…” Adaora began but Oriaku cut her short.
“I know who you are, Adaora. You are blessed by the gods. You are destined for a great King. I know that you have powers and you can see the future and read minds.”
Adaora nodded, though that wasn’t what she had wanted to say.
“When I was kidnapped, I spent a lot of time questioning the gods until I realized that they had brought me to retrieve the sacred dagger of Ituri. I cannot do that on my own, so the King sent my master to assist me.” She paused to let the words sink in.
It took Oriaku a while to understand the implication of Adaora’s explanation.
“Chinedum is here?” Her lips shivered.
“Yes, he is.” Adaora nodded.
Oriaku gritted her teeth as she thought of Chinedum’s wife and all the atrocities she had committed towards her.
“I will not tell him about his evil wife until our mission is done here. I will expose Obiajulu once we reach Ezeudo.”
Adaora released the breath she held. She had been worried that Oriaku would make a scene which could distract Chinedum from retrieving the dagger.
“Thank you, nneoma.” Adaora bowed.
“Let me leave you to rest. You need all the strength because we may be leaving for Ezeudo sooner than we expected.”
Oriaku thanked the moon virgin for spending time with her before lying on the bamboo bed which was provided for her. She felt relieved knowing that someone else had shared her burden. As she closed her eyes, the only face she saw was Obiajulu’s. She couldn’t wait to return to Ezeudo.
Princess Uli had left the moon virgin with the strange woman; she had observed they needed privacy. Uli had nothing to keep her preoccupied while waiting for Adaora, so she had decided to indulge in one of her habits. Her servants had been hesitant to provide her with a knife and pieces of wood knowing how angry the Queen would be. Uli had always stood out from the other princesses. While the others loved to adorn their skin with the latest herbs to make it glow and spend their days looking at the mirror, Uli had no time for that. She was already bestowed with a natural beauty that was difficult to compete with.
She loved to stroll through the village to know how the people were faring. Perhaps, this was the reason that some Kingdom dwellers were drawn to her than her cruel brother. If she wasn’t strolling, she was sacrificing and worshipping at the royal shrine. When she wasn’t doing that, Princess Uli loved to carve some figures using wood; a habit that her mother condemned.
“Why do you behave like a man when you aren’t one? You are a princess in the name of the gods! Why would you carve?” Her mother always disapproved of her hobby which she considered a talent.
Uli usually ignored the woman, until the Queen grew weary of nagging.
As her fingers worked the knife, pieces of the bark she was peeling fell to the ground. She hummed a song as she carved. Unknown to her, the stranger from Ezeudo had just finished with her brother; he paused in his steps and watched as she carved.
After swearing an oath to King Chiemelie, Chinedum had stepped out of the palace. He had searched everywhere for Adaora and the Princess to tell them the latest development. There was no better time to steal the dagger than within the seven days that had been declared for the cleansing of the kingdom. He was fully prepared to do whatever it would cost to take the dagger. He had promised to lay down his life for Ezeudo, and he was willing to die if it came to that.
“Ouch!” Uli winced as the knife dug into her skin. Blood gushed out from the wounded finger. She bit her lip and quickly rose to her feet. She couldn’t let the Queen see her.
“Why am I having so many wounds?” She exclaimed angrily.
Chinedum rushed forward as he noticed that she had cut herself.
“Princess!” He covered the distance between them.
She licked her lips and smiled as she stared into his eyes. They were darker than she had noticed, even broodier. It seems he carried all the burden of the world in those eyes.
As he stared at her, something within him stirred. Chinedum quickly looked away. There was a growing attraction to Uli but he had to fight it. He reminded himself that he had a wife at home who was waiting patiently for him with his children. He loved Obiajulu with all of his heart and he wasn’t willing to share his heart with another woman. As he took the Princess’ finger, he made a mental note to stay away from her.
“I never knew a woman could carve,” he observed the level of the cut.
Uli scoffed, “Why do men think women are that uninterested in some crafts
He adored her more after her question. Chinedum observed that Uli didn’t have the attitude of a typical princess. She wasn’t lazy or soft. She was full of determination and courage.
“I have some potions that would alleviate your pain.” He was about taking off his bag when Adaora found them. Adaora noticed the pain in the eyes of Uli.
“I am so sorry about your wound but we must find a place and talk. We don’t have much time left.”
While Chinedum cleaned the wound with some leaves he fetched from the forest while hunting, Adaora made some suggestions that would help them retrieve the dagger.
“I think we should strike tomorrow night. While the palace is quiet, we would go into the throne room and take the dagger. When we are through, we’ll scurry through the bush paths until we reach home.” She suggested.
“That is a good plan but the King made me swear allegiance to him,” Chinedum announced.
“That wouldn’t be a problem. You will eat of the Ikele leaves. It would protect you from the repercussions of the oath.” Uli advised.
The Princess liked Adaora’s plan, but she knew it wouldn’t work.
“My brother is no fool. Don’t think for one minute that he trusts you completely,” She turned to Chinedum.
“Chiemelie isn’t only evil, he takes after my mother’s crafty nature. For every plan that he comes up with, he has seven other plans to back it up. Retrieving the dagger of Ituri would be more tasking than what you have described. We cannot do it on our own. We will need extra help. This is a matter of life and death, so we must be totally prepared for what is to come.”
Adaora and Chinedum realized that they had to rely completely on Princess Uli.
“We will strike on the third night. But before then, I will put some things in place…” She pulled her hands away from Chinedum as the touch of his hands was beginning to send sparks into her fragile body.
“What can we do to help?” Chinedum asked.
Uli shrugged, “We have to call the gods for help.”
When the princess was gone, Adaora turned to Chinedum and informed him of Oriaku’s presence.
“What is she doing here?” It sounded very odd.
Adaora clicked her tongue. She’d wanted to answer, “Why not ask your friend and your wife?” But she decided to hold her tongue for the right time.
“She is the woman that was found by the water. We must leave Amabara as fast we can else they may sacrifice her on the seventh day.”

TO BE CONTINUED

Story by Davina diaries

Close
SimplePortal 2.3.6 © 2008-2014, SimplePortal