ROYAL SWITCH
Nathaniel Tracy@tracynathaniel290806
10 days ago
ROYAL SWITCH
(EPISODE 5-10)
EPISODE 5
A story written by Tracy Nathaniel
Prince Segun, now a skilled warrior and knowledgeable in kingdom affairs, returned from a hunt with a majestic wild animal. He presented it to King Abiodun, who beamed with pride and bestowed his blessings.
The maids prepared a feast with the fresh game, and King Abiodun dined with Prince Segun and Queen Ajoke. Amidst the meal, King Abiodun broached the topic, "Segun, when will you take a bride? You'll inherit the throne soon, and I'm growing older."
Prince Segun replied, "Father, I've no interest in any maiden."
Queen Ajoke chimed in, "Segun, you're of age. Our kingdom has many beautiful maidens. Choose one to be your queen."
Prince Balogun, passing by, overheard the conversation. A cunning idea struck him. He approached the king, "May I join your feast?"
King Abiodun welcomed him, "Please, have a seat."
Prince Balogun savored a few bites before clearing his throat. "I overheard your discussion about Prince Segun's bride. I know the perfect maiden for him."
King Abiodun's curiosity piqued, "Who is this maiden?"
Prince Balogun's sly smile hinted at his hidden agenda.
King Abiodun's curiosity piqued, "Who might that be?"
"Kemi, my daughter," Prince Balogun replied, his smile laced with hidden intentions.
"Princess Kemi!" Prince Segun exclaimed, dismayed.
Prince Balogun's pretentious smile widened. "Yes, Princess Kemi."
Queen Ajoke's doubt surfaced, "But they've never gotten along. How do you expect them to marry?"
Prince Balogun reassured, "They'll learn to love each other, Your Majesty."
Turning to King Abiodun, Prince Balogun's tone turned calculating. "Brother, you know the throne that rightfully belonged to me was passed to you. If my daughter, Kemi, marries Prince Segun, I'll find solace in knowing she'll have the opportunity to rule this kingdom, which was denied to me. I ask that you give this proposal thoughtful consideration."
Father, I implore you, don't consider Prince Balogun's proposal. I refuse to marry Princess Kemi," Prince Segun said firmly.
King Abiodun's expression turned resolute. "Segun, reconsider. Prince Balogun's words have merit. You and Princess Kemi should put aside your differences and unite for the kingdom's sake."
Prince Segun's frustration grew. "But Father, I've made it clear I don't want to marry her. Why must I sacrifice my happiness for Prince Balogun's ambitions?"
Prince Balogun bowed, his sly smile lingering. "Thank you for considering my proposal. I'll take my leave."
As Prince Balogun exited, Queen Ajoke's anger flared, "Abiodun, how can you consider your brother's wicked request?"
King Abiodun stood firm, "If this marriage brings peace between my brother and me, it will happen."
Prince Segun pleaded with his mother, "Mother, please talk to Father. I won't marry Princess Kemi."
Queen Ajoke soothed, "I'll speak with him, don't worry."
Princess Kemi bowed as Prince Balogun entered her chamber.
"Kemi, I have news," Prince Balogun announced, his voice laced with calculation. "You're betrothed to Prince Segun."
Princess Kemi's eyes widened in shock. "Father, why Prince Segun? I thought I was to choose my own husband."
Prince Balogun's smile hinted at his hidden agenda. "This marriage will aid my ascension to the throne."
Confused, Princess Kemi asked, "How does marrying Prince Segun help you?"
"You'll gain his trust," Prince Balogun explained, "and inform me of his every move. Together, we'll bring him down."
Princess Kemi's unhappy expression revealed her reluctance.
Prince Balogun's laughter sent chills through the room. "I'm close to claiming the throne."
Meanwhile, Prince Segun and Queen Ajoke pleaded with King Abiodun to reconsider the marriage proposal.
"Father, please," Prince Segun begged, "I refuse to marry Princess Kemi."
Queen Ajoke added, "This union will only bring strife, Abiodun."
King Abiodun remained resolute, deaf to their persuasion.
Prince Segun, seething with anger, paced outside when Princess Kemi crossed his path. He swiftly grasped her arm.
"What deceit are you and your father concoting? Why this sudden desire to marry me?" Prince Segun demanded.
Princess Kemi jerked her arm free, her eyes flashing. "Don't dare touch me like that again! And what makes you think I'd willingly marry you? You're the last person I'd consider."
Her voice dripped with venom as she turned to leave.
"Tell Prince Balogun, your father to abandon this marriage idea!" Prince Segun shouted after her.
Princess Kemi ignored him, disappearing into the palace.
Prince Segun muttered, frustration etched on his face, "I must act. Marriage to Princess Kemi is unthinkable."
EPISODE 6
The day of Prince Segun and Princess Kemi's wedding had finally arrived. Kemi, resplendent in her attire, stood before the royal family and their subjects, her beauty undeniable. However, her sorrowful expression betrayed her true feelings.
King Abiodun's voice echoed through the hall, "Where is Prince Segun?" The sudden absence of the groom sent a stir through the assembly.
A guard hastened to respond, bowing deeply. "Kabiyesi, I couldn't find him in his chambers."
King Abiodun's concern grew. "Search the entire palace. Leave no stone unturned."
Minutes passed, and the guard returned, his face etched with worry. "Your Majesty, Prince Segun is nowhere to be found within the palace walls."
Whispers spread among the elders, "Has Prince Segun fled on his wedding day?"
Prince Balogun's voice dripped with malice. "King Abiodun, what game is Prince Segun playing? Does he not know the significance of this day?"
King Abiodun's face darkened. "I will find him, no matter where he is."
"Akin!" King Abiodun summoned.
Akin bowed. "Kabiyesi."
"Take guards and search the village. Bring Prince Segun back to the palace."
Akin nodded. "I will, my King."
Hours ticked by, and Prince Segun's absence stretched on, testing the patience of the gathered crowd. Prince Balogun seethed with anger.
Akin returned to the palace, accompanied by the guards. "Kabiyesi, Prince Segun is nowhere to be found in the entire kingdom."
King Abiodun's face reddened with rage. "What do you mean you can't find him? Where could he be?"
As the sun dipped below the horizon, the subjects and elders began to depart. Princess Kemi seethed with anger, her voice barely above a whisper. "Prince Segun has brought shame upon me. What an embarrassment."
King Abiodun awaited Prince Segun's return outside his chamber. Suddenly, Prince Segun attempted to sneak in, only to be confronted by his father.
"Kabiyesi," Prince Segun bowed.
King Abiodun's back remained turned. "Where have you been?"
"I went to the neighboring village, father," Prince Segun replied.
King Abiodun spun around, his eyes blazing. "Neighboring village? On your wedding day?! You've brought shame to our royal family, kept everyone waiting, including your bride!"
Prince Segun pleaded, "Father, I told you I don't want to marry Princess Kemi. I can be betrothed to anyone but her."
King Abiodun's voice hardened. "Running away won't end the marriage. You will marry Princess Kemi, and that's an order."
He commanded, "Akin! Ensure Prince Segun doesn't leave his chamber. Guard it well."
Prince Segun protested, "Father!" but King Abiodun cut him off.
"Akin, take Prince Segun inside his chamber."
Akin bowed and escorted Prince Segun away.
Prince Balogun seethed with fury, while Princess Kemi poured out her embarrassment. "Father, it's clear Prince Segun despises me. He'd rather shame the royal family than marry me. How can your plan succeed if I'm married to him? He'll keep a distance from me, and I'll never gather information."
Prince Balogun's expression darkened. "You're right, Princess. Prince Segun is stubborn and brave. I must rethink my strategy. For 22 years, I've tried to eliminate him, but my plans have been foiled. He's even killed the assassins I sent."
Prince Balogun paced in his chambers, plotting Prince Segun's demise, when Tunji entered.
"What troubles you, my friend?" Tunji asked.
Prince Balogun shared his frustration and desire for revenge. Tunji suggested, "Remove King Abiodun, and Prince Segun will lose the throne for refusing to marry Princess Kemi. You'll ascend to the throne."
Prince Balogun's eyes gleamed with malice. "Tunji, my friend, you've sparked an idea. I'll ensure King Abiodun's demise, and Prince Segun will follow”.
EPISODE 7
Prince Balogun, fueled by deceit, approached King Abiodun with a drink. "Abiodun, my brother, let's share a drink together."
King Abiodun's face lit up. "I'm surprised you're asking me to drink with you. It's a pleasure, my brother."
Unknown to the King, Prince Balogun had poisoned his cup. As they sipped their drinks, King Abiodun chuckled.
"What's amusing you?" Prince Balogun asked.
"I'm happy to see us bonding, just as our father would have wanted," King Abiodun replied.
Prince Balogun smirked, his true intentions hidden.
King Abiodun stood, feeling uneasy. "I'm filled up, my brother. Thank you for the drink."
As he took a few steps, he stumbled and began coughing up blood. "Balogun, help me!" King Abiodun extended his hand.
Prince Balogun sneered. "Why should I help you? This is what I've been waiting for."
King Abiodun's eyes widened in horror. "You poisoned me?"
Guards! King Abiodun called out.
"Save your breath, my brother," Prince Balogun said coldly. "My accomplice has taken care of the guards outside."
King Abiodun's desperate cries for help went unanswered.
Prince Segun tried to leave his chamber. "Let me pass. I need to see my father, the King," he demanded.
The guard refused, "We're under orders from the King and Akin to keep you inside."
Prince Segun persisted, "I'm not escaping. I just want to speak with my father. You can escort me to his chamber."
The guard agreed, and they proceeded to the King's chamber. Upon arrival, they found blood splattered on the floor.
"Find Akin and alert the other guards," Prince Segun ordered.
As the guard rushed off, Prince Segun entered the chamber to find King Abiodun struggling to stay alive.
"Father!" Prince Segun shouted, horrified.
Prince Balogun emerged, smiling sinisterly. "Welcome, Prince Segun. You've fallen into my trap. I'll kill you and the King in one spot."
King Abiodun weakly commanded, "Segun, leave...now!" before taking his last breath.
Prince Segun rushed toward his father, but Prince Balogun pulled out a hidden gun.
Prince Segun fled, but Prince Balogun shot him in the arm.
Despite the injury, Prince Segun continued running. Prince Balogun signaled his accomplices to chase him.
Prince Segun was pursued into the bush.
Akin and the guards rushed to the scene, only to find King Abiodun's lifeless body and the two guards slain. Queen Ajoke, alerted by the commotion, hastened to the scene and collapsed upon seeing her husband's corpse.
She wailed, ordering the guards to search for the killer. By morning, news of the King's demise spread, and the elders converged on the palace.
Prince Balogun emerged, feigning shock and sorrow. "Who could commit such a heinous act?" he asked, his expression a mask of innocence.
Elder Ajadi echoed, "Indeed, who would dare enter the palace and kill the King and his guards?"
In her chambers, Queen Ajoke mourned, then suddenly recalled Prince Segun's absence. "Segun! Where's Segun?" she exclaimed.
Bimpe replied, "My Queen, Prince Segun hasn't been seen anywhere in the palace."
Queen Ajoke's alarm grew. "What! Prince Segun is missing? Unthinkable! Call Akin!"
Akin rushed in, and Queen Ajoke demanded, "Are you aware Prince Segun is missing?"
Akin replied, "Yes, my Queen. We're already searching for him."
Queen Ajoke's voice rose. "You didn't inform me my son was missing because I was mourning the King?"
Akin explained, "We didn't want to disturb you, but we're doing everything to find Prince Segun."
Queen Ajoke paced outside, worried about her son's safety. Prince Balogun approached, his expression feigning sympathy.
"Queen Ajoke, I offer my condolences on the King's passing," Prince Balogun said.
"You murderer!" Queen Ajoke accused, her voice trembling. "You'll pay for King Abiodun's death."
Prince Balogun smirked. "Lower your voice, Your Majesty. What proof do you have of my involvement?"
Queen Ajoke's eyes blazed. "May the gods punish you, Balogun!"
Prince Balogun laughed. "Forget curses, Queen. Worry about Prince Segun's safety."
"Where is Prince Segun?" Queen Ajoke demanded. "Nothing must happen to him."
Prince Balogun chuckled, walking away.
"Balogun!" Queen Ajoke shouted, clutching her chest.
She summoned Akin. "Search for Prince Segun. Deploy guards to neighboring villages."
Tunji informed Prince Balogun, "We can't find Prince Segun."
"What?!" Prince Balogun exclaimed. "He was shot in the arm; he can't have gone far. Find him before anyone else does”.
EPISODE 8
Akin and the guards scoured the forest, searching for Prince Segun. As they split up, Akin focused on a specific area. Suddenly, he stumbled upon a massive pit. Peering inside, he spotted Prince Segun, unconscious.
Akin's heart sank. Instead of raising an alarm, he sought a way to rescue the Prince. Carefully, he pulled Prince Segun out and laid him on the ground.
Tragically, Prince Segun was already gone. Akin wept, overcome with grief.
"What will become of Okan-Oko's future now that both the King and the crowned Prince are dead?" Akin lamented.
Hearing footsteps, Akin swiftly hid Prince Segun's body. He approached the guards, his expression stoic.
"I've searched this area; the Prince is nowhere to be found. Let's return to the palace and inform the Queen," Akin instructed.
The guards nodded, unaware of the tragic discovery.
Upon their return, Akin reported Prince Segun's death to Queen Ajoke, who collapsed. Bimpe attended to the Queen, and later, when she regained consciousness, Queen Ajoke summoned Akin.
"Akin, is Prince Segun truly dead? Did you see his corpse?" Queen Ajoke asked, her eyes downcast.
Akin bowed, his expression somber. "Yes, Your Majesty."
Queen Ajoke asked, "Where is his corpse?"
"I hid it in the forest," Akin replied.
"Who else knows of Prince Segun's death?" Queen Ajoke inquired.
"No one, Your Majesty. Only I," Akin assured.
Just then, Bimpe announced, "Prince Balogun has arrived to see you, Your Majesty."
Queen Ajoke's expression turned icy. "Send him in."
Prince Balogun walked in, the Queen’s eyes narrowing at Prince Balogun's presence. "Balogun, what brings you here?"
"I heard you were unwell and came to offer my support," Prince Balogun replied, his tone dripping with insincerity.
"I'm fine. You may leave," Queen Ajoke dismissed.
Prince Balogun smirked. "Ajoke, don't be rude. This is the perfect time to curry favor with me, as I'll soon be the ruler. King Abiodun is deceased, and Prince Segun's whereabouts are unknown. The throne will rightfully pass to me."
Queen Ajoke's anger flared. "What makes you think Prince Segun won't return?"
"With the severity of his injuries, I doubt he'll survive," Prince Balogun chuckled.
"The elders will crown a new king in seven days. If Prince Segun remains missing, and I'm still available, the throne will be mine."
"Never!" Queen Ajoke exclaimed.
Prince Balogun's smile grew wider. "Ajoke, this is our new reality. It's wise to accept it. I'll marry you, be a better husband than Abiodun, and we'll have a son to succeed the throne."
Queen Ajoke's outrage boiled over. "Balogun, leave my chambers immediately!"
Prince Balogun chuckled, turning to depart. "Think carefully, Ajoke. Refuse, and you'll relinquish your title and return to your father's house as a common maiden."
He exited, leaving Queen Ajoke fuming.
"Akin!" Queen Ajoke summoned.
"Yes, Your Majesty," Akin replied, bowing.
"Where is my other twin son?" Queen Ajoke demanded.
Akin hesitated, but the Queen's urgency was palpable. "This is not the time for stammering, Akin. The situation is critical. Prince Balogun will claim the throne in seven days if Prince Segun doesn't appear. I won't let that happen. Speak now!"
Akin revealed the twin's whereabouts, and Queen Ajoke ordered, "Prepare for our departure tonight. Additionally, discreetly relocate Prince Segun's body to a secure location.
Akin nodded solemnly. "As you command, Your Majesty."
Under the cover of darkness, Queen Ajoke and Akin left the palace, traveling for two days. They arrived at the kingdom where the midwife and the other twin resided.
The midwife emerged from her hut, bowing deeply. "Your Majesty, it's an honor to receive you."
Queen Ajoke entered the hut, her eyes scanning the room. "Where is my son?"
"He's checking the traps he set for meat," the midwife replied.
Queen Ajoke nodded, explaining her visit and the palace's turmoil. The midwife listened intently.
"Oh no, Prince Balogun mustn't ascend the throne. The people will suffer," the midwife exclaimed, offering condolences for the King and Prince’s passing.
The midwife's words reinforced Queen Ajoke's determination to secure the rightful heir.
As they conversed, the other twin, Kunle, entered with a grass cutter in hand. "Kunle is here," the midwife announced to Queen Ajoke.
The Queen rose, her eyes welling up with emotion. "He bears a striking resemblance to Prince Segun," she whispered.
Queen Ajoke approached Kunle and hugged him tightly, tears streaming down her face. Kunle, perplexed, didn't understand the situation.
The midwife explained, "She is the Queen of Okan-Oko, your biological mother."
Kunle's confusion deepened. "But you're my mother," he protested. "Why didn't you tell me I had a biological mother elsewhere?"
Queen Ajoke revealed, "The late King, your father, ordered her to keep your true identity hidden. It was believed that twins were an abomination, so she kept the secret."
Kunle stood stunned, struggling to process the revelation.
EPISODE 9
Prince Balogun paced anxiously, distraught over Queen Ajoke and Akin's sudden disappearance. "Where could they have gone?" he wondered.
Tunji suggested, "Perhaps they're searching for Prince Segun?"
Prince Balogun turned. "Any news of Prince Segun?"
Tunji replied, "No, we've found nothing. Maybe wild animals devoured him in the forest."
Prince Balogun smiled grimly. "Better for him to be dead."
Meanwhile, Queen Ajoke revealed Prince Balogun's sinister intentions to Prince Kunle. "He'll stop at nothing to claim the throne, killing anyone who stands in his way."
Prince Kunle listened intently, determination growing within him.
"It's time to save Okan-Oko from your uncle's tyranny," Queen Ajoke urged. "Take your brother's place and become king."
Prince Kunle hesitated. "But how can I survive in the palace? I'm no match for Prince Balogun."
Queen Ajoke vowed, "I'll protect you with my life. I won't let Prince Balogun harm you like he did your twin brother and father."
The midwife encouraged, "This is your destiny, Kunle. Take the throne."
Prince Kunle steeled himself, accepting the challenge.
With urgency, Queen Ajoke said, "We must leave. Prince Balogun will be crowned in four days."
Prince Kunle tearfully bid farewell to the midwife, thanking her for her love and care.
Queen Ajoke offered the midwife gems, but she declined. "Raising Kunle as my own was reward enough."
The Queen and Prince Kunle were deeply moved by the midwife's selflessness.
Queen Ajoke, Prince Kunle, and Akin returned to the kingdom after two days of travel. Meanwhile, Prince Balogun was preparing for his coronation.
Tunji burst into Prince Balogun's chamber, panting. "Prince Segun has returned with Queen Ajoke!"
Prince Balogun's eyes widened. "Impossible! He's supposed to be dead."
Cheering erupted outside, and Prince Balogun's face darkened. "This can't be, not when I'm so close to the throne."
Determined to verify the news, Prince Balogun rushed outside and was shocked to see Prince Kunle, mistaken for Prince Segun.
Queen Ajoke approached, a hint of amusement in her voice. "Why so surprised, Balogun?"
Prince Balogun stuttered, "I-I thought..."
Queen Ajoke interrupted, "That Prince Segun was dead? She laughed. "What makes you think that, or did you have a hand in his disappearance?"
The elders gathered, and Elder Ajadi declared, "Now that Prince Segun has returned, he shall prepare for his coronation as the next king."
Queen Ajoke beamed with hope, smiling. She took Prince Kunle to Prince Segun's chamber, where he rested and was dressed in royal attire.
Prince Balogun tossed and turned, plotting to seize the throne from Prince Segun (Prince Kunle). He devised a scheme and visited Princess Kemi's chamber.
"Father, what brings you here at this late hour?" Princess Kemi asked, concerned.
"All is not well," Prince Balogun replied. "Prince Segun's return threatens my claim to the throne."
Princess Kemi's expression turned calculating. "I'm aware of his arrival. What's your plan?"
"We'll proceed with our original strategy," Prince Balogun said. "You'll marry Prince Segun, but this time your mission will be different."
"What mission?" Princess Kemi inquired.
"I'll reveal it when the time is right," Prince Balogun replied. "Prepare for the marriage."
Princess Kemi hesitated. "Father, I don't want to marry Prince Segun. I'll undertake any mission, but please spare me this union."
Prince Balogun's tone turned cold. "You will marry him. That's final."
As Prince Balogun departed, Princess Kemi seethed, "I thought I'd escaped this marriage”.
EPISODE 10
It was the coronation day. The royal family, elders, and subjects gathered. Just as the eldest elder prepared to crown Prince Kunle, Prince Balogun interrupted.
"Balogun, what nonsense is this?" Queen Ajoke demanded. "Why stop Prince Segun's (Prince Kunle) coronation?"
Prince Balogun addressed the elders, "Prince Segun cannot be crowned without marrying Princess Kemi, his betrothed."
The elders nodded in agreement. "We initially prioritized crowning him quickly, as the throne cannot remain vacant."
The eldest elder declared, "Prince Segun, the coronation is postponed for three days. Marry Princess Kemi, and we will proceed."
Prince Kunle thought to himself, "My twin brother and Princess Kemi never got along. How can they expect me to marry someone who dislikes me?"
Queen Ajoke protested, "Prince Segun should choose another bride; it doesn't have to be Princess Kemi."
Prince Balogun countered, "The late King Abiodun agreed to this union. They must marry."
Elder Ajadi confirmed, "Yes, King Abiodun supported this marriage. Prince Segun will marry Princess Kemi within three days.
Prince Kunle spoke up, "The three days is a short time. I need some time with Princess Kemi before getting married to her. We're rivals; we don't like each other. I need some days to establish a good relationship with my wife-to-be."
The elders nodded in agreement, “That's a wise decision.”
Elder Ajadi said, "We will give you seven days to amend your relationship with Princess Kemi. Then, your marriage and coronation will take place thereafter."
After the meeting, Queen Ajoke approached Prince Kunle, her voice laced with concern. "Why did you agree to marry Princess Kemi? She's one of Prince Balogun's accomplices. It's dangerous to keep her as your wife."
Prince Kunle reassured her, "Mother, I understand your concerns. That's why I want to befriend her. To uncover the schemes of your enemies, I need to get close to those connected to them."
Queen Ajoke's expression softened. "You're right, but please be cautious, my son."
Prince Kunle nodded.
Meanwhile, Princess Kemi seethed with anger, pacing back and forth. Prince Kunle approached her, and she confronted him.
"Prince Kunle, why did you agree to this marriage? Why?" she yelled.
Prince Kunle remained calm. "We can't escape this marriage, Princess Kemi. Why don't we try to get along instead?"
Princess Kemi scoffed. "What makes you think I'd want to get along with you? We'll never be on good terms."
Prince Kunle's eyes locked onto hers. "Let's put our differences aside, for now. We have seven days to make this work."
Princess Kemi's gaze faltered, her expression unreadable.
Despite Princess Kemi's cold demeanor, Prince Kunle persisted in winning her over. He showered her with attention, hunted game for her, and presented her with valuable gifts. However, his efforts failed to impress her, and she continued to keep him at arm's length.
After Prince Kunle escorted Princess Kemi to her chamber, she entered to find Prince Balogun waiting.
"Greetings, Father," Princess Kemi said.
Prince Balogun's eyes narrowed. "What's going on between you and Prince Segun? I've noticed he's been getting closer to you."
Princess Kemi shrugged. "Nothing, Father. He's just trying to get along with me."
Prince Balogun's expression turned stern. "Get along with you? You're marrying him to fulfill my mission, not to form a bond. Remember, he's your enemy."
"Yes, Father," Princess Kemi replied, her voice submissive.
Prince Balogun exited, leaving Princess Kemi to ponder her situation.
Seven days had passed, yet Prince Kunle had made no progress in winning Princess Kemi's heart. Despite this, the wedding proceeded as planned.
The marriage rites were completed, and Prince Kunle was officially wedded to Princess Kemi.
Prince Balogun's face twisted into a suspicious grin, reveling in the success of his scheme. In stark contrast, Queen Ajoke's expression was somber, her concerns for her son's future deepening.
As Prince Balogun flashed a sly, self-satisfied smile, Queen Ajoke's gaze narrowed. "Balogun, I don't know what you're plotting," she whispered to herself, "but I won't let you harm my son."
The atmosphere was heavy with tension, foreboding a complicated future for the newlyweds.
TO BE CONTINUE.
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