OBIDIKE THE EVIL KING

OBIDIKE THE EVIL KING
A story written by Tracy Nathaniel
(EPISODE 1-10)

EPISODE 1

The entire palace was filled with agitation, as Queen Akugo, was in labor trying to give birth..

My King, please be at peace all will be well.. This time you will receive a good news from the midwife.. Chief Ezenna said to King Obidike, who is walking about restlessly.
How will you tell me to be at peace, when the Queen has had still birth not once but twice.. King Obidike yelled.
I believe this third one will be different. Let’s believe that this time, the God of our land will help the Queen to give birth successfully.. Chief Ezenna said.
Guard!! King Obidike called out.
Yes my King.. One of the guard responded.
Go and bring the Chief priest to the palace immediately! The King commanded.
Okay my King.. The guard responded, as he ran out of the palace.

Some minutes later, the guard came back with the chief priest.
Greetings my King, you summoned me.. said the Chief priest as he bowed to the king.
I summoned you because I want you to be present, while the Queen put to birth.. Do whatever incantation to make sure the Queen doesn’t have a still birth again.. The king ordered the Chief priest.
Yes my King.. Th Chief priest responded, as he brought out his items from his bag and lay them on the floor, to begin his incantation.

After few hours, the midwife walked up to the king, with a baby on her arm..
Congratulations my king, it’s a male child.. The mid wife announced, as she handed the baby over to the king.
May the gods be praised.. King Obidike shouted, as he raised the baby up.
Finally, I have a heir! His name will be called Ugonna..
King Obidike announced.
The Chiefs and the palace servants rejoiced.

The King handover the baby to the Chief priest..
Look into the child’s future and tell me what his future holds.. The King said to the Chief Priest.
After few minutes, the Chief Priest speaks up.
My King, your son has a bright future, he will make a good king.. The Chief priest said.
That’s a good one.. The Chiefs chorused as they shook their head in excitement.
You have check that of my son, also look into my future, I want to be aware and careful of unforeseen circumstances.. The King said.
That’s right.. The chiefs chorused.

Hmmm… The Chief priest shook his head.
Speak up! what did you see? The King asked.
My king, I saw your downfall.. The Chief priest replied.
What? My downfall? The King exclaimed.
Yes my King.. The Chief priest replied.
The Chiefs muttered to themselves.
What on earth can result to my downfall tell me?!! The King shouted.
My King, the child that will lead to your downfall, is being born the same day with your son.. The Chief priest said.
You mean, a mere child that is being born today will lead to my downfall in the future? The King questioned.
Yes my King.. The Chief Priest answered.
Never! Never!! A great king like me, can’t go down.. No one can bring me down!! The King shouted.
Guards!! The King shouted.
Yes my King.. The guards chorused.
Go into the village and kill every child that is being born today, regardless of the family status.. King Obidike commanded.
The guards bowed to the king in response to his command..

Kill all, spear no babies! The king shouted, as he watch the guards march out of the palace.
My King, you can’t kill all innocent babies, just because of the prophecy of the Chief priest.. said Chief Ezenna.
Yes my King.. How do you expect their mothers to cope with the pain of seeing their babies being slaughtered.. Chief Okezie said.
Other Chiefs muttered in agreement with what Chief Ezenna and Okezie said.
Enough!! Do you all expect me to sit down and watch that child grow up to cause my down fall?.. King Obidike shouted.

Meanwhile, the guards went into different homes and midwife’s apartments to slaughter new born babies..

Sounds of cry and scream filled the enter village as blood of infants was shed.
Mothers held their lifeless babies, as they weep uncontrollably..

Uchenna who was coming back from his trade, saw what was happening in the village, he quickly ran home to meet his pregnant wife.
On getting home, his wife was already in labor..
Congratulations, it’s a female child.. The midwife said to Uchenna.
Thanks.. Uchenna responded, as he paid the midwife off.
My husband, isn’t she beautiful? Ogadinma asked, as she smiles at her baby.
Yes she is beautiful.. Uchenna replied, as he packed their belongings.
My husband, why are you packing our belongings? And why are you so tensed? What’s the matter? Ogadinma asked.
We have to run away.. The King’s guards are killing newly born babies In the village and I wasn’t expecting that you will give birth today.. I can’t let them kill my only child.. Uchenna said.

Ogadinma, started crying, after hearing all what Uchenna said..
I have gotten few of our belongings, come on let’s run through the back door.. Uchenna said as he held Ogadinma’s hand.
While they were running, the King’s guards saw them and ran after them.
Ogadinma became so scared as she firmly held her baby.
They ran into the thick dark forest, not knowing where they are running to..


EPISODE 2

I can see a river over there.. Uchenna pointed at the direction.
Hide here with the baby, I will check if I can get a boat.. I will be right back.. Uchenna said to Ogadinma.
Ogadinma hid herself and her baby, as she quietly breast feed her baby and also clean off the blood rolling beneath her wrapper.

Uchenna was able to find a boat at the bank of the river..
While he was fixing the boat, the King guards surrounded Uchenna..
Where is your wife and your baby? The head guard asked.
I don’t know where they are.. Uchenna replied.
If you don’t talk, I will be forced to cut off your neck.. The guard threatens.
Uchenna kept mute..
He is not ready to speak, cut off his neck.. The head guard signal one of the guard.
While the guard was about to cut Uchenna’s neck, they saw some lights from a far and the head guard stopped the guard from cutting Uchenna’s neck.
It’s the King.. One of the guard shouted.

They bowed to the King, as the King approached them.
I heard that your wife gave birth and you are on the run.. So I decided to step out of the palace, immediately I got your location.. King Obidike said.
My King, why will you make such an order to kill innocent babies, that know no harm.. Uchenna questioned the king.
Uchenna my friend, these babies you see, are harmless now, but they can grow up to be something else.. Actually, the Chief priest gave a prophecy that a child that is being born today will result to my downfall. I can’t let such a child live, I still have a lot of years to rule this great kingdom of Aguta.. So handover your baby to me. The King said.
Never!! Uchenna shouted.
Uchenna you are a very good friend of my mine for a very long time now and I won’t want you to ruin the friendship we have. Obey my order and handover your baby to me, after all you and your wife can have as many babies as you wish, so hand over your baby to me.. King Obidike said.
Over my dead body will I handover my only child to you.. Uchenna shouted.
Hmmm, I came to stop the guards from hurting you and your wife but I can see that you don’t need my help and you are stubborn. I will let them carry the order I gave them, but I assure you that we will look for your baby and kill your baby.. The King said as he signal the guard to deal with Uchenna.
Immediately, the guard drew his sword and stab Uchenna.
Blood oozes out from Uchenna’s mouth, as he fell down on the ground and died.
No one will prevent me from stopping that prophecy not my friend nor my family.. King Obidike muttered to himself.

Why is my husband not back? I hope nothing bad has happened to him? Ogadinma questioned.
Instead of staying here, I should go and check on my husband.. Ogadinma said to herself.
She quietly walk down to the river with her baby..
On getting to the river, she saw her husband lifeless body.. She screamed aloud as she trembled in fear.
My husband, please get up.. You can’t leave us, please. Ogadinma cried out.
While Ogadinma was crying, she saw a group of men approaching the river bank..
Ohh no, the guards are coming back.. Ogadinma exclaimed.
Ogadinma quickly took her baby to the boat..
Shhh.. Don’t cry, mother is here.. said Ogadinma as she pat her baby.
My poor baby, mother can’t come with you because I need to distract the guards, you are their target and if I escape with you, the king must surely hunt us down.. Ogadinma said to her baby as she weep.
She pushed the boat into the river, as the boat sail slowly.

Ogadinma quickly ran to another direction, diverting the attention of the guards coming..
There she is! Go after her.. The head guard shouted.
The guards ran after Ogadinma.
Ogadinma kept on running, as far as her leg could take her, making sure she is far from the river, to prevent the guards from hearing the cry of her baby.
While she was running, she dashed her foot on a stone and she feel down.
The guards caught up with her, as they surrounded her.
They waited for the King to arrived at the scene..
Woman, where is your baby? The king asked.
Ogadinma uttered no word.
You have to speak up, or else you will end up like your husband.. King Obidike said to Ogadinma.
How could you kill your own friend, that committed no crime.. Ogadinma said to the King as she cries.
He did commit a crime.. He disobeyed me by not telling me the whereabout of his baby.. So you better speak up, where is your baby? The king asked.
Neither will I disclose the whereabout of my baby to you.. Ogadinma responded.
Hmm I see... You are as stubborn as your husband.. said King Obidike as he turned his back.
Guard! eliminate her.. The King ordered.
Immediately the guard slit her throat..
Ogadinma get hold of the king’s garment with her hand stained with blood as she held her throat.
The king pushed her away, as she fell flat on the ground.
All Ogadinma could think of was her baby, as she gave up the ghost.

Guards!! You all will split yourselves and look for that child.. That baby must not be alive!.. The King shouted.
The guards split themselves as they went in search of the baby..
The King dragged the head guard on his cloak..
That baby is the only child that is still alive, You better bring that child’s dead body to me.. The King said to the Head guard, as he pushed him away.
Yes my King.. The head guard responded, as he ran to join the other guards to look for the baby
Let’s head to the palace.. The king said to his personal guard.


EPISODE 3

Queen Akugo was breast feeding her baby, when King Obidike walked in..
My King! Queen Akugo exclaimed, seeing the King’s garment stained with blood.
My King where are you coming from? And whose blood is on your garment? Queen Akugo asked.
The King told her everything the Chief priest said and the action he took.
What!! My King, you killed innocent babies, because of a prophecy? Queen Akugo shouted, as she stood up with her baby.
It’s not just a mere prophecy. It’s about my life, my future and the future of this kingdom. I don’t mind slaughtering the entire villagers, as long as I am still the Great King of this Great Kingdom of Aguta.. King Obidike said.
Ok hearing all what the King has said, Queen Akugo became weak and fell on her seat..
The maid, quickly took the baby from the Queen.
Innocent babies are dead, how will their mother bare the pain of losing their babies.. The Queen asked softly.

Get up and take care of my child. He is my only heir, nothing should happen to him.. The King warned the Queen, as he walks out.

Queen Akugo couldn’t take her mind off what the King told her.. She kept on imagining the pain and suffering the babies mother and the family is going through.
Imagine, seeing my baby being taken from me and being slaughtered.. Queen Akugo muttered to herself as she stare at her baby.

The following day at noon, The head guard walked into the palace with the guards, as they present a dead baby to the king..
My King, this is Uchenna’s child, we saw where the mother hid the baby and we killed the baby as instructed.. The head guard said.
That’s good.. You all did a great job.. You can leave.. King Obidike said, as he gave a broad smile.
Now the prophecy has been hindered.. No one dares to bring me down.. said King Obidike as he laughs out loud.
The Chiefs gave no respond to him, as they frown at his deed..

One of the guard walked up to the Chief-guard..
Chief guard! Are you sure that someday the king won’t find out that the baby we brought to him isn’t Uchenna’s baby?
He won’t, as long as we keep it from him.. The Chief guard responded.
After all we can’t keep searching the the entire forest for just one child.. We were unable to find the child and the king ordered that we shouldn’t come back to the palace if the child isn’t found.. said the Chief guard.
That’s true.. The guard responded.
Go to your post.. The Chief guard commanded, as he walks out.

In Uruwa kingdom, a fisherman named Okoye was fishing at the middle of the river, when he heard a cry of a baby..
He looked around and saw a boat sailing gently toward his direction.
Is that a child? He asked himself, as he tries to look into boat.
Okoye kept on hearing the cry of a baby.. He stopped fishing, as he paddle his canoe close to the boat..
It’s a child.. Okoye exclaimed.
Why is there no one in the boat? Okoye questioned.
He gently reached out to the baby..
Little one, where are you parents? Okoye questioned.
He suspended his fishing and paddled his canoe back home with the baby.

When Okoye arrived home with the baby, his wife Ezinne, was surprised to see her husband with a baby.
My husband, whose child are you with? Ezinne asked.
I don’t know whose child is this. I saw the child on a boat all alone, while I was fishing.. Okoye replied.
All alone! Ezinne exclaimed.
Yes.. Okoye replied.
Ohh poor child.. said Ezinne, as she took the baby from her husband.
What should we do with the child? Okoye asked.
Let’s keep her.. Ezinne said as she smile at the baby.
But she isn’t ours, we can’t keep her. I need to look for the babies parents.. Okoye said.
My husband, God is trying to bless us with this child.. We have waited for Thirty five years without any child of ours and now we have found this one.. I’m not letting her go.. Ezinne said as she pat the baby softly.
Take a look at her, she has stop crying and she is smiling at me.. said Ezinne as she giggled.

You can have all your time with the baby. Tomorrow I will go to the neighboring village to make an enquiring if there is any parent that lost their baby.. Okoye said.
Okay.. Ezinne replied in a sad voice.
You don’t have to be sad, the baby isn’t ours.. Okoye said.

The following day, Okoye went to Aguta. When he got to Aguta, he saw some homes lamenting and weeping, he asked a passer by what happened and he was told that newly born babies was slaughtered last night and some parents that disobeyed the king were also slaughtered along with their baby.
Okoye got shocked with what he heard.
He quietly left Aguta and returned back to his village.

My husband, you are back!, why the sad face? Ezinne asked.
Hmm.. Okoye shook his head, as he bent down his head.
Talk to me.. What the matter? Ezinne asked.
Okoye told Ezinne all that happened at Aguta.
What! Ezinne shouted.
Are you saying that the King of Aguta, ordered his guards to slay all newly born babies because of a prophecy? Ezinne asked.
Yes, that’s what I was told.. Okoye replied.
That means, the baby’s parents tried to save their child by putting her into a boat.. Ezinne said.
Yes.. And I’m not sure they might be alive.. Okoye said.
How can a king be this evil.. Innocent babies were killed because of him.. Ezinne lamented.


EPISODE 4

I’m sorry you have to experience such a cruel act the very day you were born into this world.. Ezinne said to the baby.
I will be her mother and I will take her as my own child.. Ezinne said to her husband.
Yes, she is a blessing from God.. Okoye said.
Yes she is. After all this years and I thought I will never be called a mother.. Ezinne said , as tears drip from her eyes.
Let’s give her a name.. Okoye said.
What name should we call her? Ezinne asked.
Let’s name her Omasirachi.. She is indeed a gift given to us by God.. Okoye said, as he took the baby from Ezinne.
Okoye danced and play with the baby..

Okoye and Ezinne cared and love Omasirachi as their own child..
Where could this old couples gotten a baby from? Some villagers gossiped, as the couples passed with omasirachi.
While some will congratulate them and offer a gift to the child..

~
Years passed by, as Omasirachi grew up being loved by her both foster parents. Not only was she loved by her parents but also by the villagers.
Omasirachi always accompany Okoye to the river to catch fishes and after that, they will both sell the fishes at the market and returned home with the money gotten from their sales.

Mama, we are back! Omasirachi shouted, as she walked into the compound with Okoye.
Welcome my daughter, my husband you are welcome.. Ezinne greeted.
Mama, have this.. I kept the fish outside while selling the rest of the fishes.. Omasirachi said.
The fish is big.. It surely will be delicious.. Ezinne responded.
Yes.. I specially caught it for you.. Omasirachi said.
Oma.. No, no, no.. I caught the fish specially for your mother.. Okoye snapped.
Ohh we.. We caught it for you.. Oma giggled.
Not we.. I.. Okoye said.
But father, I assisted you.. Omasirachi shouted.
That’s enough.. You both have started with your argument.. Oma, take the fish inside, I will prepare a meal with it.. Ezinne said.
Omasirachi teased her father as she ran inside with the fish..
What a silly girl.. said Okoye as he laughs.

~
It’s Prince Ugonna’s Eighteenth birthday.. King Obidike threw a big party to celebrate his son’s birthday..
While the celebration was going on, he told his son to make a request, that he will give him anything he wish for, even if it’s the head of his enemy..
Father I have no request in mind, you have given me everything I want.. Please permit me to preserve the request till when needed.. Prince Ugonna said.
Sure.. You can make the request anytime.. King Obidike responded.
Thank you father.. said Prince Ugonna.

After the celebration, Queen Akugo summoned the Chief Priest.. She offered him some items as a present from the Prince’s birthday.
The main reason I summoned you, is to look into the Prince future again.. I want to know what his future holds, especially now that he is becoming an adult.. Queen Akugo said.
After some incantations, the Chief priest speaks out..
My Queen, it will be difficult for Prince Ugonna to rule this kingdom as long as King Obidike is alive, he will be a hinderance to the Prince reign.. said the Chief priest.
What do you mean by that? Queen Akugo asked.
When the time comes, you will witness it yourself and then you will understand.. The Chief Priest replied.

Queen Akugo couldn’t sleep at night, she kept on pondering on what the Chief priest said to her..
How can that be possible? Why will the king be a hinderance to his son’s reign? Queen Akugo questioned.
My Queen, may I know what troubles you? It’s late at night and you are still awake.. asked Olu, the Queen personal maid
It’s nothing.. I just need some time to think about something, so just let me be for now.. said Queen Akugo.
Okay my Queen.. Olu replied, as she leaves the Queen’s chamber.

~
Mother, Father… Omasirachi calls, while they were having their dinner.
Yes, what’s it.. Ezinne replied.
I have been wanting to ask you both a question.. said Omasirachi as she mole of pounded yam in her mouth.
Okay go ahead and ask your question.. saidOkoye.
I have been thinking, why you both had me at your old age and why I don’t have a sibling.. Omasirachi said.
Don’t worry my daughter, we will give an answer to your questions, when it’s the right time.. Ezinne said.
But mother, when will it be the right time? Omasirachi asked.
When you clock 23.. Ezinne replied.
Huh.. Okay. Omasirachi replied, as she washed her hand and took the plates to the kitchen.

Why didn’t you tell her now? After all she is already eighteen years old, she is a young adult, she will understand.. Okoye said.
Her heart is still fragile to hold such a terrible news.. Ezinne responded.
Okay, if you say so.. Okoye replied.

I wonder what it might be.. Omasirachi muttered as she eavesdropped on Ezinne and Okoye’s conversation.


EPISODE 5

It’s been Five years already, Omasirachi was still curious to know what her parents are hiding from her..

Oma today is the day you were born and we will want to celebrate this day with you.. Okoye said.
Yes my daughter.. What meal do you want me to prepare for you.. Ezinne asked.
Yes, any meal of your choice. I and your mother will prepare it for you.. Okoye said.
Thanks mother and father, but instead of the food, I will want you both to give me the answer to my question.. Omasirachi said.
What question? Ezinne asked.
The question I asked on my eighteen birthday.. Omasirachi replied.
Uhmm my daughter, le-let’s talk about that la-later.. Ezinne stammered.
But mother why not now? You promised to give an answer to my questions when I clock 23.. Omasirachi said.
Okoye walked up to Ezinne..
My wife, let’s tell her all what she needs to know, she has come of age.. Okoye said.

Come and sit close to me my daughter.. Ezinne said to Oma.
Oma left where she was standing and sat close to Ezinne.
Ezinne narrated everything to Omasirachi, how she and Okoye was unable to have a child of their own, then how Okoye saw Oma at the river while he was fishing and also how the king of Aguta, killed all newly born because of a prophecy and how her biological parents gave up their lives to save her from being killed along with the other babies..
Omasirachi was shocked to hear all what Ezinne has said.
Mama are you trying to tell me that you and papa are not my biological parents? Omasirachi questioned.
Ezinne nodded her head in response to yes.
Omasirachi turned to Okoye..
Papa is it true? Omasirachi asked.
Yes my daughter.. All what your mother said is the truth.. Okoye responded.

Tears rolled down from Omasirachi eyes..
Stop crying my daughter, I know that all what you have heard from us is so tragic. But all thanks to God that preserved you for us. So stop crying.. Ezinne said as he consoled Omasirachi.
It’s painful that your biological parents was murdered the very day you were born, but I want to assure you that we will continue to be your parents and we won’t stop loving you as our daughter.. Okoye said.
Mother and Father, thank you so much for taking me in while I was a baby and for caring for me as your own child.. Omasirachi said as she cries.
It’s okay my daughter, please stop crying.. said Ezinne as she lay Omasirachi head on her lap and gently pat her back.

The following day, Omasirachi went to the village square with her friend Uju..
At the village square, other maidens were present, some were playing, while others were dancing to the sound of the flute..
Oma! Oma!! Uju called out, as she tapped Omasirachi’s shoulder.
Yes, what’s it? Omasirachi answered.
What are you thinking about? You were lost in your thought.. Uju said.
It’s nothing I am fine.. Omasirachi replied.
No you are not. We came here to have fun but you are not partaking in the dance nor play. Please talk to me, what’s wrong? Uju asked.
I’m thinking about what my parents told.. Omasirachi said.
What can that be? Uju asked.
Omasirachi revealed to Uju all what her parents told her.
What! You mean that Your parents are not your biological parents? Uju exclaimed.
Yes.. Take your voice down.. Omasirachi said.
Am sorry you have to experience all that at a very tender age and also lost your parents while you were still a baby.. Uju said.
It’s okay.. Thanks.. Omasirachi replied.

So why are you still thinking about it? Uju asked.
I will like to travel to the village of Aguta
What? Aguta?! Uju shouted.
Shhh, keep your voice low.. said Omasirachi.
Why do you want to go to the village of Aguta? Uju whispered.
I want to see the evil king that murdered my parents and make him pay.. Omasirachi said.
Oma, he is a king.. You can’t have an access to him.. And how do you want to make him pay for his deed? Uju asked.
I have a plan.. Omasirachi said.
What plan? Uju asked.
I will go to Aguta and work as a palace maid. Then I will look for a way to gain the king trust and poison him.. Omasirachi said.
You are talking as if it’s easy to gain a work at the palace. And beside you are from Uruwa, how do you expect that you will gain access to work as the palace maid in Aguta. Uju said.
I will have to try my luck.. Omasirachi said.
How do you intend to poison the king, when you can’t even harm a fly.. And beside, your parents won’t allow you to go to Aguta.. Uju asked.
I will have to come up with an excuse to leave for Aguta.. Omasirachi said.
But I will advice you not to go to Aguta, you are going for a dangerous mission, you might lose your life.. Uju said.
Don’t worry about that my friend.. The only thing I’m worried about is how to convince my parents, that I will be going to Aguta.. Omasirachi said.
Hmm, I just hope you will listen to me.. I won’t advice you to go to Aguta oo.. Uju said.
It’s getting late, let’s go back home.. Omasirachi said, as she stood up.


EPISODE 6

At evening, while Omasirachi was done having dinner with her parents, she told them that she have something to tell them..
What is that you want to tell us about? Okoye asked.
Mother, Father, I will like to travel to the village of Aguta, I hope you both will permit me to go to Aguta? Omasirachi asked.
Why do you want to go to Aguta, ehh Omasirachi? Ezinne snapped.
Ermm I… Omasirachi stammered as she scratched her head.
Why do you want to go to Aguta all of a sudden? Okoye asked.
You have to tell us your reason.. Ezinne said.
I want to work at the palace.. Omasirachi answered.
Palace? Okoye questioned.
Why do you want to work in the palace at Aguta? Ezinne asked.
Mama, I want to make King Obidike paid for what he did to me and my biological parents.. Omasirachi said, as tears assembled in her eyes.
Come my daughter.. Sit down.. Okoye said to Oma.
Omasirachi sat down close to Okoye.
My daughter, what do you think you can do to King Obidike? Ezinne asked.
I will poison him, once I start working as a maid at the palace.
Ezinne gave a smirk..
If you do so, what makes you different from King Obidike? Ezinne asked.
I’m different from him, at least I am not a murderer like him.. Omasirachi responded.
But after you have killed him, you have also become a murderer.. So there is no difference.. Ezinne said.
Yes my daughter, your mother is right.. You just have to leave the fight for God, King Obidike will surely reap all what he sold.. Okoye said.
But father… Omasirachi sobbed.
My daughter, just let go of the plan you have to eliminate the king.. It’s almost an impossible task because the king is always guided.. You might lose your life while trying.. Okoye said.
Omasirachi cries softly..
Okoye rest Oma’s head on his shoulder, as he pat her shoulder softly.
It’s okay my daughter, stop crying.. Okoye said.

Omasirachi restrained from her plans of going to the village of Aguta..

Months passed by and Omasirachi erased every thought of her revenge for King Obidike..
Papa.. Where are you going to with these so much fishes? Omasirachi asked, as she watch her father load the fishes in his boat.
I am going to the village of Aguta to sell the fishes.. There is a fest going on and I’m to deliver this amount of fishes to the palace.. Okoye said.
Can I come with you? Omasirachi asked.
No you can’t, stay with your mother.. I will try to be back home on time.. Okoye said.
Okay father, take good care of yourself.. Goodbye.. Omasirachi said, as she hugged Okoye.

Okoye arrived at Aguta, he sold the fishes to the royal chef, and he was being paid for his service..
Okoye, happily went back home with the money he got from selling the fishes.
While he was going back home, he stopped at the market and got beautiful beads for Omasirachi and he also got few wrappers for his wife, Ezinne.
When he got home, Omasirachi and Ezinne was very happy with the gifts Okoye got them.

Papa, I just hope you will keep on delivering fishes to the Royal chef of Aguta kingdom.. said Omasirachi, as she tries the beads on.
Okoye laughed out..
I hope so, so that I can keep on getting stuff like this for you and your mother.. Okoye said.
Yes Papa.. Omasirachi replied.
Ezinne gave a smile as she appreciated her husband for the gift..

A week later, Okoye was summoned to the palace to deliver some fishes again..
Okoye quickly went to the river to catch some amount of fishes..
While he was fishing, Omasirachi asked him a question..
Father, why is that the people of Aguta buy fishes or sea food from Uruwa kingdom? Don’t they have river or fishermen? Omasirachi.
The people of Aguta do have a river but for some reasons, there river doesn’t have fishes in it.. Okoye said.
But why? Omasirachi asked.
I don’t know.. Only the people of Aguta can answer that question.. Okoye replied.
Why will they have fishes in their river, when they have an evil king.. Omasirachi said as she hissed.
Oma!! Okoye shouted.
But father that is the truth.. They do have an evil king.. Omasirachi whispered.
You should watch your words, someone shouldn’t hear you saying all these.. Okoye warned.
Okay papa.. Omasirachi answered.

I’m done fishing.. I will quickly take the fishes to Aguta.. Okoye said.
Okay papa, but I should come along with you, this time.. Omasirachi said.
No no no… Go home and help your mother out.. And tell her that I will be back before dinner.. Okoye said.
Okay papa.. Omasirachi replied in a low tone.
You don’t have to be sad.. I can take you to anywhere but not Aguta.. Okoye said.
Go home, I am leaving now.. I will be back home okay.. said Okoye.
Okay papa, I will wait for you to be back, so that we can have dinner together.. Omasirachi.
Okay my daughter.. Okoye smiled.
Take care father.. Omasirachi shouted, as Okoye set to leave.
Okoye waved at Omasirachi as he smiled at her..
Omasirachi stood and waved back at Okoye, until he sailed his boat away.


EPISODE 7

After Okoye has sold the fishes to the Royal chef and has been paid, he went to the market to get some items for his wife and daughter.
While Okoye was going to the market, he stopped at where palm wine is being sold, to take few cups of palm wine..
After he was done drinking the palm wine, he stood up and head to the market.

While Okoye was checking out the items he want to buy for Ezinne and Omasirachi at the market, he felt a tap on his shoulder..
He turned to see who it was..
Okoye, you are summoned to the palace.. said The Chief guard.
Why? Did something went wrong? Okoye asked.
The Chief guard ignored Okoye’s question and signal his guards to drag him.
The guards grabbed Okoye’s arm, as they dragged him forcefully to the palace.
What wrong have I done? Okoye asked, being confused, as he is being dragged away.
While Okoye was being dragged away, his bag and money fell on the ground at the market.

When they got to the palace, the guards presented Okoye to the King.
My King, here is the fisherman.. said The Chief guard.
You are the fisher man that tries to kill me huh.. King Obidike asked.
Kill you? How? Your majesty.. Okoye asked.
The fish you sold to the Royal Chief has a small hook in it and the king almost swallowed it.. said The Royal chef.
A hook? Okoye questioned.
Immediately, Okoye prostrated before King Obidike.
Ohh your majesty, forgive my negligence, I wasn’t aware that the fish I sold for the Royal chef has a hook in it.. Okoye said.
Who prepared the fish? The king asked the Royal chef.
It’s one of my cook.. The Royal chef replied.
Bring that person here right now! King Obidike ordered.
The Royal chef and a guard quickly went to bring the cook.

My King, here is the cook.. said the Royal Chef.
So you are the careless cook that tries to kill me through my food.. King Obidike said.
My King, how can I try to kill you? The cook questioned, as he shivered.
Why is there hook in my fish? And it almost pass through my throat.. The King said.
What? Hook? The Cook exclaimed.
Yes hook.. The Royal chef responded.
I wasn’t aware of the hook, while preparing the fish.. The Royal chef told me to prepare the fish without cutting it.. If I had cut it, I would had seen the hook and removed it.. said The cook.
King Obidike chuckled and said to the Royal chef
“He is blaming you”.

Okoye and The cook kept on pleading with King Obidike to show them mercy..
Enough of the pleading.. King Obidike yelled.
Guards! Take them away and deal with them.. King Obidike ordered.
Please your majesty have mercy, I have a wife and daughter that are waiting for me at home.. Please have mercy!.. Okoye cried, as he plead with the King, while the guards dragged him away..

Chief Ezenna was about going into the palace, when he saw the guards, dragging Okoye and the cook away..
He stop the guard and asked him what happened..
The guard told him what happened..
But the fisherman isn’t at fault.. Chief Ezenna said.
The guards ignored Chief Ezenna and dragged Okoye and the cook away.

My King! Chief Ezenna shouted, as he walked into the palace..
What is it? King Obidike asked.
My King, why did you asked the guards to take the fisherman and the cook away? The fisherman is innocent, he won’t be able to know if there is hook in the fish he sold to the Royal chef.. Chief Ezenna said.
Unfortunately, he has to pay for it.. What if the hook got stocked in my throat, what would you had said? King Obidike asked.
But… Chief Ezenna tries to speak.
No but.. My judgement is final. When ever anyone is selling anything or cooking for me, they will have to be extra careful, or else they will pay with their life.. said King Obidike.

As for you, when next something like this happens again, i won’t spare you.. King Obidike said to the Royal chef.
Thank you for your mercy my king.. This won’t repeat itself.. The Royal chef said.
Leave from here.. King Obidike said to the Royal Chef.
The Royal chef bowed to the King and left.

My King.. Chief Ezenna called out.
Ezenna, if it is still concerning the fisherman and the cook, drop it.. I don’t want to hear anything about them. My judgment is final.. King Obidike said.

The guard that took Okoye and the cook away, flogged them mercilessly..
Okoye and the cook kept on crying and pleading for mercy.
But the guards kept deaf ears to their plead and kept on whipping them mercilessly.

After several whip from the guards, the Chief guard walked in and stopped the guards..
Take them away and lock them up.. They should not receive any food or treatment.. The Chief guard ordered.
Chief guard, the old man is unable to get up.. One of the guard reported.
Why is the old man not moving? Forcefully get him up.. The Chief guard ordered.


EPISODE 8

Chief guard, I think the old man is dead.. said The guard.
Dead? The Chief guard questioned.
Yes.. The guard responded.
The Chief guard walked up to where Okoye’s body was lying and checked if he was still breathing..
He is not breathing.. I will inform the King that the fisherman is dead. Stay here with the body, I will be right back.. The Chief guard said.
Okay Chief guard..The guard replied.

My King… The Chief guard bowed.
What is it? Can’t you see that am having meeting with my Chiefs? King Obidike asked.
I’m sorry for the interruption.. The Chief guard said.
What is it you want to inform me about? King Obidike asked.
I am here to inform you that, the fisherman is dead.. The Chief guard said.
What!! The fisherman is dead? How come? Chief Ezenna exclaimed.
He died after receiving several whips.. The Chief guard said.
How could you guards, whip an old man in such a manner that made him lose his life? said Chief Ezenna.
We were only doing what the King ordered us to do.. said The Chief guard.
Don’t you.. Chief Ezenna tries to speak but the King interrupted.
That’s enough.. Since the fisherman is dead, that shows he has paid with his life.. King Obidike said.
Chief Ezenna looked at the King with rage in his eyes.
Uhmm Chief guard, order two guards to send the fisherman’s body back to his village.. said King Obidike.
Okay My King.. The Chief guard replied, as he bowed to the king and took his leave.

Chief Ezenna was angry over the fisherman’s death, that he no longer have interest in the meeting with the king and other Chiefs.
He told the king that he is unwell, and needed to go home..
The King permitted him and he left the meeting.

Omasirachi I wonder why your father isn’t back yet and it’s getting late.. Ezinne said as she looks through the window.
He should be on his way.. Omasirachi replied.
That’s what you have been saying.. I’m just worried that your father isn’t back from Aguta.. Ezinne said.
I just hope he will come back any moment from now, because am so hungry.. Omasirachi said.
Go and get your food.. Ezinne said.
No mama, I will wait for Papa to be back.. I told him that I will wait for him, so that we can eat together.. Omasirachi said.

While Omasirachi and Ezinne was still talking, they heard a group of people crying from a distance..
Omasirachi and Ezinne looked through the window, to know what’s going on..
They saw a group of people walking toward their compound, crying..
Mother, who’s body are they carrying? Omasirachi asked.
Ezinne quickly ran out of the house, to see whose body the villagers are carrying.
Omasirachi ran along with Ezinne..
Ezinne approach the men carrying the body.. Immediately she checked and saw that the corpse the men are carrying is her husband Okoye, she screamed..

This can’t be my husband, he went to Aguta to sell the fishes he caught and he said he will be back.. My husband can’t be dead.. Ezinne said to the villagers.
Oma, didn’t you say that your father will be back and will join us to have dinner? Ezinne asked Omasirachi.
Ezinne we are sorry for your loss. It’s so painful to lose a husband.. A villager consoled.
I said my husband can’t be dead.. Ezinne shouted, as she cries.

Omasirachi fell on her kneel, as tears rolled down from her eyes, while she looked at Okoye’s lifeless body.
Ezinne couldn’t control herself but cry uncontrollably.

The villagers took Okoye’s body away from Omasirachi and Ezinne.
Ezinne tries to stop them from taking her husband’s body away, but the women present, held her back.

Ezinne get hold of yourself.. One of the women said.
The women tried to consoled Ezinne.

Omasirachi was on her kneels for more than two hours, being lost in her own world, not knowing what’s happening around her. All she could think of was the last moment with her father and the memories she had with him..

Oma get up.. Uju said, as she held Omasirachi hand.
My father.. Omasirachi muttered.
Omasirachi turned to Uju and said…
Uju my father.. He said he will be back.. Uju my father is gone for ever.. Omasirachi said to Uju as she burst into tears.
Uju Consoled Omasirachi…

Ezinne get up, let’s take you inside.. One of the women said..
The women helped Ezinne to her feet..
While they were taking Ezinne inside her house, Ezinne suddenly collapsed.
Some of the women screamed..
Get some water.. One of the women shouted, as she quickly attend to Ezinne.

Omasirachi, who heard the women scream, turned to see what happened.
Only to see her mother laying unconscious on the ground..
Mama! Omasirachi shouted, as she ran to where Ezinne was lying down unconscious.
Mama, please get up.. said Omasirachi as she tapped Ezinne.
The woman attending to Ezinne, sprinkled water on Ezinne’s face..
Ezinne regained consciousness, after the water was sprinkled on her face.
With the help of Uju, Omasirachi took Ezinne inside and lay her on the mattress..

EPISODE 9

Early in the morning, while Omasirachi was sleeping close to Ezinne, she could hear Ezinne calling out to Okoye in her sleep..
Mama! mama wake up!!.. Omasirachi tapped Ezinne.
Mama you are burning up!.. Omasirachi exclaimed.
Mama, I will be right back… said Omasirachi, as she ran out of the house, to get a traditional doctor..

The traditional doctor was picking herbs at the bush close to his hut, when Omasirachi ran passed him..
Omasirachi ran back after she noticed that she has ran passed the traditional doctor.
Greetings.. Omasirachi greeted the Traditional doctor.
Greetings to you, young maiden.. Hope all is well? Why are you in a haste? The traditional doctor asked.
My mother is burning up.. said Omasirachi.
Where is she? The Traditional doctor asked.
I left her at home.. Omasirachi responded.
Give me few minutes, I will go back to my hut to get some herbs and some items I will use in treating her.. The traditional doctor said.
Okay.. Omasirachi replied, as she waited for the Traditional doctor.

Few minutes later, the traditional doctor appeared with his items..
Let’s go.. He said to Omasirachi.
Omasirachi lead the way, as the doctor walked behind her.
Young lady, show some mercy on this old by slowing down a bit, you are too fast.. I’m unable to catch up with you.. said The traditional doctor, as he panted.
I am sorry.. I am worried about my mother, that’s why am walking this fast. She is all alone at home. Omasirachi said.
I understand.. The traditional doctor replied.

When they both arrived, the Traditional doctor, quickly attended to Ezinne.
Omasirachi was so bothered about Ezinne’s condition.
The Traditional doctor was done giving some treatment to Ezinne and was about to leave, when Omasirachi approached him..
How is her condition? Is there improvement? Omasirachi asked being worried.
I will say that her condition is a bit better than how it was earlier.. Though I have given her some concoction, let’s monitor if there will be any changes.. said The traditional doctor, as he put his items into his bag.
Ohh okay, She will be fine by tomorrow.. Omasirachi said.
I hope so, we just have to watch and see how her condition will turn out to be, tomorrow.. The traditional doctor said.
Okay.. Omasirachi replied.
I will take my leave now, but will be back tomorrow to check on your mother.. The traditional doctor said.
Okay, thank you..
This is part of the money am to pay you for my mother’s treatment, I will balance it up once you are done treating her.. Omasirachi said.
Okay.. said The Traditional doctor, as he took the money.

Omasirachi was sweeping the compound, when she heard Ezinne coughing..
She quickly dropped the broom and ran to where Ezinne was lying down.
Mama! Are you okay? Omasirachi asked as she checked Ezinne’s temperature.
You are still burning up.. Mama talk to me what’s wrong? Do you want to leave me, just as papa left me? Omasirachi questioned, as tears drip from her eyes.

Oma, have you prepared a meal for your father? He will be back soon.. Ezinne whispered to Omasirachi.
Mama, Papa is dead.. Omasirachi responded.
Don’t say that.. Your father is not dead, he will be back soon.. said Ezinne, as she gave a weak smile.
Omasirachi stared at Ezinne, as tears rolled down from her eyes.
Mama why don’t you want to accept the fact that Papa is no more? Omasirachi questioned.

The following day, the Traditional doctor came by to check on Ezinne.
Your mother’s health is not improving.. I will take her with me, to continue her treatment… The Traditional said.
Okay.. Omasirachi answered, with sadness written all over her face.


EPISODE 10

After Omasirachi has taken Ezinne to the Traditional doctor’s hut, she quickly went to the river..
Greetings Mazi… Omasirachi greeted.
Greetings to you Oma.. Mazi Oke answered.
How are you doing and how is your mother? Mazi Oke asked.
My mother is sick and there is no improvement in her health.. Omasirachi replied.
Your father’s death was a huge shock to her.. We also couldn’t believe that your father that went to sell his fishes at Aguta will be brought back home dead.. I just hope that the God of our land will bring justice to your father’s death.. Mazi Oke said.
Ise (Amen)… Omasirachi replied.
Ermm Mazi Ibe.. Omasirachi called out.
Yes my daughter, what is it? Mazi Oke asked.
I want to ask a Favour from you.. Omasirachi said.
Okay, go ahead… Mazi Oke responded.
I want to get into fishing, so that I can sell the fishes to pay for my mother’s treatment.. Omasirachi said.
Oma, I believe that you are aware that women don’t partake in fishing, in this kingdom.. We have only fishermen and not fisherwomen.. Mazi Oke replied.
I know about that, but that’s the only job I can come up with, that can fetch me money for my mother’s treatment. My father is not alive to do that.. Atleast I know how to fish, I have always been with my father whenever he comes to the river to fish, it won’t be difficult for me.. Omasirachi said.
Oma, you won’t be permitted to fish.. It’s is not allowed here in this kingdom.. Mazi Oke said.
How will I come up with the money for my mother’s treatment? My family do not have a farm land which I can cultivate on and sell the farm products to get some money, and fishing has been my family business for years, that’s where I can get money from, after selling the fishes at the market.. said Omasirachi.
Hmm… Oma instead of being a fisherwoman, I will help you out in another way.. Mazi Oke said.
How can you help me? Omasirachi asked.
You will come to the river with me every morning, after am done fishing, I will give you some amount of fishes from the fishes I caught, you will sell the ones I gave you and keep the money for your mother’s treatment. We will continue like that until you are able to pay for your mother’s treatment… said Mazi Oke.
Omasirachi felt grateful, she quickly knelt down to appreciate Mazi Oke.
Mazi Oke thank you very much.. I am grateful. Once my mother is fully recovered, I will come with her to thank you.. She will be grateful to hear all these.. Omasirachi said.
Get up my dear.. Am ready to do anything to help your family, your father was a very good friend to me and not only me, he was also good to everyone that he came across.. Mazi Oke said.
Yes my father is a good man.. Omasirachi responded with a smile.

~
Every morning, Omasirachi will accompany Mazi Oke to the river, after Mazi Oke is done fishing, he will give Omaisrachi, some fishes.
Oma will take the fishes to the market, after selling them,she will save up some of the money.
Let me take food to mama. I wonder how she is doing? Omasirachi said to herself, as she dished the food in a clay plate and carefully placed it in a basket.

~
Who is there? asked The traditional doctor, immediately he noticed the foot step of someone.
It’s me, Omasirachi.. Omasirachi responded.
Come in.. said The traditional doctor.
Omasirachi dust off her feet, as she walked into the hut.
How is my mother doing? Is there an improvement in her health? Omasirachi asked the Traditional doctor.
Hmm… Your mother isn’t responding to treatment, I have given her several herbs but still her health hasn’t improve.. The traditional doctor said.
Her health hasn’t improve? But why? Omasirachi asked, being so worried.
Your mother has not recover from the death of your father, she no longer recognize faces and she talks to herself.. The traditional doctor said.
What!! Omasirachi exclaimed.
Mama, are you okay? Omasirachi asked as she touched Ezinne.
Okoye, my husband.. Ezinne responded.
Mama, I’m not papa, it’s me Oma, your daughter.. Omasirachi said as she sobbed.
Okoye.. Okoye… Ezinne muttered.

You can take your mother home.. I will look for a particular herb to start another treatment for her.. But before then you can give her this herb before her bed time and when she wakes up at morning.. said The traditional doctor.
Okay, I will do as you instructed.. Omasirachi replied, as she takes the herb from the traditional doctor.

TO BE CONTINUE.

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