ROYAL SWITCH
Nathaniel Tracy@tracynathaniel290806
10 days ago
ROYAL SWITCH
(EPISODE 1-5)
EPISODE 1
A story written by Tracy Nathaniel
In the great kingdom of Òkan-Òko, King Adesola ruled with compassion and wisdom. His people adored him for his kindness and generosity. Despite his wealth and power, King Adesola's happiness was incomplete. He longed for a child to succeed him.
King Adesola and his beloved Queen Bukola had sought the blessings of the God of their land, but their prayers remained unanswered. The elders of the kingdom, showed concerned about the future, urged King Adesola to take a second queen who could bear him a son.
King Adesola was reluctant to take another queen due to the love he has for Queen Bukola. However, Queen Bukola, aware of her own limitations, approached King Adesola with a selfless proposal.
"My king," she said, "take another queen, one who will give you the heir our kingdom needs. I want your happiness and the future of Òkan-Òko secured."
King Adesola's resolve wavered, he adhered to the words of Queen Bukola and agreed to take a second Queen.
A maiden named Titilayo was formally introduced to King Adesola, and soon, he took her as his second queen. After a brief period, Titilayo became pregnant with the king's child.
The kingdom celebrated as Queen Titilayo's pregnancy was confirmed, only to be followed by the surprise announcement of Queen Bukola's pregnancy a week later.
King Adesola was overjoyed, and he hosted a grand feast to share the news with his subjects.
Months passed, and the pregnancies progressed. Queen Titilayo went into labor and gave birth to a male child, whom the king named Balogun.
The kingdom rejoiced, and the elders offered their congratulations. Just a week later, Queen Bukola also gave birth to a male child, and King Adesola named him Abiodun.
The king's joy was doubled, having struggled to father a son in the past. Now, he was blessed with two princes.
As the princes grew, Queen Titilayo and Queen Bukola became worried over which sons of the King will be the king’s heir.
Queen Titilayo's maid reassured her, "The first son inherits the throne, Your Majesty. You have nothing to worry about."
However, Queen Titilayo began to notice King Adesola's increasing fondness for Prince Abiodun. The younger prince accompanied the king everywhere, even to meetings with the elders, and often slept in the king's chambers.
People calls him the King’s favorite.
"The king's favorite son from his favorite queen," people whispered.
As Prince Abiodun and Prince Balogun came of age, King Adesola prepared to name his crown prince.
Queen Titilayo adorned Prince Balogun in finest attire, confident in his birthright. "You'll be crowned heir, my son. You're the king's firstborn."
But during the coronation ceremony, King Adesola stunned the assembly by calling forth Prince Abiodun and declaring him his successor.
Queen Titilayo and Prince Balogun were a shocked.
"Mother, why?" Prince Balogun asked, bewildered. "You said I'd be crowned as the first son."
Queen Titilayo's eyes welled with tears as she approached King Adesola.
"Why, my king?" she implored. "Why did you pass over our son, Prince Balogun, for Prince Abiodun?"
King Adesola explained, "Prince Abiodun possesses the qualities of a true king. He's interested in the kingdom's affairs and shows compassion for our subjects. Prince Balogun, however, lacks these traits and squanders his time with unnecessary things."
Queen Titilayo retreated to her chamber, overcome with grief. She lamented, "Why did the king marry me, only to disregard me and my son? He only favored Queen Bukola and Prince Abiodun. Queen Bukola took my luck away, the very day she got pregnant. Now I and my son is suffering. What is rightfully my son’s is now given to her son.
Prince Balogun, witnessing his mother's anguish, vowed to make Prince Abiodun pay for their pain. His heart filled with resentment, he became sworn enemies with Prince Abiodun.
The rift between the princes deepened, even after both queens passed away. King Adesola struggled to reconcile his sons, but Prince Balogun refused to listen.
On his deathbed, King Adesola implored his sons to put aside their differences. "You are brothers, bound by blood and family. Please, find peace."
Prince Balogun ignored the plea of their father, his hatred for Prince Abiodun ran too deep.
King Adesola's frail voice faded as he gazed at his sons, his eyes filled with a deep sorrow. After a final, impassioned plea for peace, he closed his eyes and took his last breath.
EPISODE 2
Despite King Adesola dying wish, to maintain peace between both sons, Prince Balogun sworn in his heart never to make peace with Prince Abiodun.
The Elders held a meeting with Prince Abiodun, they urged him to find a suitable bride and secure the throne. He presented Ajoke, his beloved, to the Elders. After wedding preparations, Prince Abiodun married Ajoke, and a coronation ensued. Prince Abiodun was crowned King of Okan-Oko, with Ajoke as his Queen.
Prince Balogun received news of the kingdom's new Queen, a ceremony he had neither attended nor witnessed. Upon learning the Queen's identity, his anger ignited.
Asabi, Prince Balogun's friend, inquired, "Why are you furious?"
"Abiodun has taken the throne and Ajoke, the maiden I desired," Prince Balogun lamented.
Queen Ajoke stood outside her chamber, while Prince Balogun approached her. They exchanged greetings, but Prince Balogun's emotions overtook him.
"How did you end up with Abiodun?" Prince Balogun asked, grasping Queen Ajoke's hand.
Queen Ajoke withdrew her hand. "We've loved each other for long."
Prince Balogun pleaded, "Ajoke, I love you."
Queen Ajoke rebuked him, "I'm married to King Abiodun, your brother. Show some respect to him by not expressing your feelings to me, his queen."
Queen Ajoke swiftly turned and retreated into her chamber, leaving Prince Balogun.
Prince Balogun's anger boiled over. "Abiodun! You'll pay for this!" he shouted.
Asabi intervened, "Lower your voice, Prince Balogun. Your words threaten the King. Let's leave."
Several months passed, and Queen Ajoke's radiant glow hinted at a new life within. The royal physician confirmed her pregnancy, and the palace erupted in joy.
King Abiodun beamed with pride, his heart overflowing with anticipation. "A new heir to the throne!" he exclaimed, embracing Queen Ajoke.
The news spread like wildfire, and the kingdom celebrated the upcoming arrival.
However, amidst the jubilation, Prince Balogun, still seething with resentment, saw the unborn child as a threat to his claim to the throne.
Finally, the day arrived. Queen Ajoke went into labor amidst a fierce storm, with lightning and thunder shaking the palace. King Abiodun, accompanied by the elders, anxiously awaited news of the birth.
"Elder Ajadi reassured, "King Abiodun, be calm. Queen Ajoke's delivery will be successful."
But the King couldn't stay calm. "I can’t be calm, I need to be with my Queen," he said, rushing to her chambers.
Upon entering, the midwife and maids bowed deeply. "Kabiyesi" (Your Majesty).
King Abiodun approached Queen Ajoke, who cradled their newborn son in her arms. She handed the baby to the King, smiling weakly.
Suddenly, her face contorted in pain. "What's wrong?" King Abiodun asked, alarm etched on his face.
The midwife replied, "I think the Queen is still in labor, Your Majesty."
King Abiodun’s eyes widened, “That’s impossible”.
The midwife assisted Queen Ajoke through the delivery. With one final push, the Queen gave birth to another son.
"A twin child?" King Abiodun exclaimed, stunned. "This defies our traditions. Twins are forbidden in our land."
Queen Ajoke cradled her second son, tears streaming down her face. "You can't kill our child," she pleaded.
King Abiodun hesitated. "My love, twins have been condemned since my forefathers' time. As king, I must uphold this tradition. If the elders discover the truth, they will take our child's life."
Queen Ajoke proposed, "We can send one twin away, secretly."
King Abiodun's gaze fell upon the midwife and maid. "There must be no witnesses."
The midwife and maid fell to their knees, begging for mercy. "We promise to keep the secret, Your Majesty."
"Akin!" King Abiodun summoned.
Akin entered, "Kabiyesi."(Your majesty)
"Take them away. Ensure their silence," King Abiodun ordered, his voice low and urgent.
As the guard dragged them away, the midwife and maid pleaded desperately.
"Stop!" Queen Ajoke shouted, horrified.
"My King, there's no need for bloodshed to keep our secret safe," Queen Ajoke said. "Let's give the youngest twin to the midwife. She'll take him far away and raise him as her own. Meanwhile, Bimpe, my loyal maid, will stay with me and care for the eldest twin. I trust Bimpe implicitly, just as you trust Akin, your guard."
King Abiodun nodded. "Very well, if that's what you desire. I hope nothing goes wrong."
The King ordered Akin, "Let them go."
The midwife and Bimpe thanked the royal couple, promising to keep the secret hidden until their grave.
After attending to the Queen and the twins, Queen Ajoke handed the youngest twin to the midwife, instructing, "Care for the young prince with your life."
The midwife pledged, "I'll raise him like my own son."
Under the cover of midnight, King Abiodun ordered Akin to escort the midwife out of the kingdom. The midwife gently wrapped the young prince and disappeared into the darkness, accompanied by the guard.
EPISODE 3
King Abiodun, beaming with pride, carried his eldest twin son to the palace courtyard. "I present to you all, my son, the future heir!" he declared, raising the child.
The elders and maids bowed their heads in reverence. "His name shall be Segun," King Abiodun announced.
The elders echoed in unison, "Congratulations, Kabiyesi!" The King acknowledged their felicitations by raising his horse tail.
After the festivities, the elders departed, laden with food and drink. King Abiodun retired to Queen Ajoke's chambers, where he found her tearfully gazing at their infant son.
"Why do you weep, my dear Queen?" King Abiodun asked, concern etched on his face.
Queen Ajoke remained silent, her sorrow was intensed.
"Is it because of our other child's departure?" King Abiodun whispered gently. "Fear not, my love. At least he is alive and in safe hands."
King Abiodun's soothing words eased Queen Ajoke's anguish, but her eyes still brimmed with unshed tears.
Asabi approached Prince Balogun and Tunji, who were engrossed in a drinking session. "King Abiodun and Queen Ajoke have welcomed a son!" Asabi announced.
Prince Balogun's expression darkened, his eyes flashing with discontent.
"That's bad news," Tunji muttered.
Asabi's asked. "Why is it bad news?"
Tunji's voice dropped to a whisper. "The child threatens Prince Balogun's claim to the throne. With an heir, King Abiodun's grip on power tightens."
Prince Balogun remained silent, his anger simmering beneath the surface. He clenched his jaw, lips compressed, as his mind began to spin deadly schemes.
Prince Balogun arrived at the Queen's chamber, bearing gifts for the young prince. Queen Ajoke emerged, her expression guarded.
"What brings you here?" she asked, her tone measured.
"I came to welcome my nephew and bring some tokens," Prince Balogun replied, signaling his servant to present the gifts to the Queen's maid. "Special herbs for his health and other fine accessories."
Queen Ajoke's smile was polite and cool. "You didn't have to go to such trouble."
Prince Balogun bowed. "It was my pleasure. I'll take my leave now."
As he departed, Queen Ajoke turned to her maid. "Dispose those gifts."
The maid hesitated. "But, Your Majesty, they were brought by Prince Balogun."
Queen Ajoke's voice hardened. "Do I need to repeat myself?"
The maid hurried to obey, while Bimpe, the Queen's confidante, asked, "Why discard the prince's gifts, Your Majesty?"
Queen Ajoke's eyes narrowed. "Prince Balogun is not to be trusted. His sudden kindness toward our child is suspect. He covets the throne and despises King Abiodun. I won't risk our son's safety."
Prince Balogun persisted in sending gifts to Prince Segun, but Queen Ajoke remained vigilant. She convened a meeting with her maids and servants.
"Any gift from Prince Balogun is to be discarded immediately," she instructed. "Do not bring it to my attention or the prince's."
Meanwhile, Prince Balogun grew increasingly anxious. "The poisonous herbs and tonic I sent should have taken effect by now," he fretted to Tunji. "Yet, the child flourishes."
"Are you certain the Queen is administering the herbs and tonic?" Tunji asked.
"I don't know," Prince Balogun admitted, "but she receives them."
Tunji's expression turned skeptical. "I doubt the Queen is giving those to the prince."
Prince Balogun's face darkened. "I must devise another strategy."
Queen Ajoke, sensing Prince Balogun's malice, ensured her child's safety, unaware of the Prince’s mischievous plan.
Asabi entered Prince Balogun's chamber, unexpectedly overhearing a sinister plot against Prince Segun.
"Prince Balogun! Tunji! What evil plan are you concocting against that innocent child?" Asabi demanded, his voice laced with concern.
Tunji shifted uncomfortably, but Prince Balogun remained defiant.
"Asabi, you know Prince Segun's existence bars my path to the throne," Prince Balogun retorted. "Why question me as if you're unaware?"
Asabi's tone dropped to a urgent whisper. "Prince Balogun, your actions will bring ruin and destruction. Consider the consequences."
Prince Balogun's expression turned cold. "Asabi, as my friend, you should support my rightful claim to the throne."
Asabi stood firm. "I'll only support you if your actions are just. This isn't."
He turned to Tunji. "You, Tunji, should counsel Prince Balogun against this wickedness."
Prince Balogun's anger flared. "Asabi, if you won't support me, leave!"
Asabi departed, refusing to condone Prince Balogun's nefarious plans.
Meanwhile, Queen Ajoke's vigilant protection of Prince Segun consistently prevented Prince Balogun's schemes.
EPISODE 4
"Ten years had passed since the twins' birth, and Prince Segun was now a vibrant ten-year-old. Queen Ajoke's concerns about her other son lingered, and she sought an audience with King Abiodun in his chambers."
"What troubles you, my Queen?" King Abiodun asked, noticing her worried expression.
"My King," Queen Ajoke began, "I long to know the whereabouts of our other son. It's been ten years since his birth, and I yearn to see him."
King Abiodun's expression turned solemn. "You know I cannot reveal our child's location, Ajoke. It's safer for all if you remain unaware."
“Because you discovered I was secretly visiting our other child, you sent Akin to take the midwife and our child to another kingdom, didn’t you?” Queen Ajoke accused, her voice laced with a mix of anger and sadness.
King Abiodun nodded. "I ordered Akin to ensure our child's safety, far from Prince Balogun's reach and the elders' prying eyes. Even I don't know their whereabouts, as Akin was sworn to secrecy."
Queen Ajoke's face remained etched with worry. "I hope he's well, wherever he may be," she whispered, her voice barely audible.
King Abiodun's expression softened. "Have faith, Ajoke. Our child is safe wherever he is”.
But Queen Ajoke's concerns lingered, her heart heavy with the uncertainty surrounding her other son's fate.
Prince Balogun rested in his chamber when Tunji burst in, breathless. "What's wrong?" Prince Balogun asked, concern etched on his face.
"It's Asabi!" Tunji exclaimed. "A poisonous snake bit him behind his hut."
Prince Balogun sprang into action. "Where is he now? Has a herbalist been summoned?"
"He's at his hut, with a herbalist attending to him," Tunji replied.
Prince Balogun rushed to Asabi's house with Tunji. Upon arrival, they found Asabi writhing in agony.
"How's his condition?" Prince Balogun asked the herbalist.
"Critical," the herbalist replied. "The venom has spread throughout his body."
Tunji added, "He was alone when bitten, no one to call for help."
Asabi weakly extended his hand toward Prince Balogun, who drew closer.
"Speak, I'm listening," Prince Balogun urged.
Asabi whispered, "I have a favor to ask... My daughter, Kemi, eight years old, sleeps in the hut. Please take her in... When she's grown, she'll serve you, repaying your kindness."
Prince Balogun's voice filled with emotion. "I'll take her as my daughter, not servant. This is how I repay your friendship."
Asabi smiled weakly, thanked Prince Balogun, and passed away.
Prince Balogun and Tunji mourned their friend's passing, burying him behind his hut. Prince Balogun then took Kemi to the palace, assigning maids to care for her. As Kemi settled in, King Abiodun and Queen Ajoke took notice.
"Who is this child?" King Abiodun asked.
"The daughter of my late friend Asabi," Prince Balogun replied. "I've adopted her as my own."
King Abiodun offered condolences. "Consider taking a wife to mother Kemi. I can help persuade her, if needed."
Prince Balogun's expression turned wistful. "The woman I love is already married. But I hold onto hope that she'll be mine someday."
King Abiodun advised, "Let her go, Prince Balogun. Many beautiful maidens await your attention."
Prince Balogun laughed, his eyes gleaming with determination. "No one else will do. It's she or no one."
Queen Ajoke eyes flashed with annoyance aware of the woman Prince Balogun spoke of.
Prince Balogun convened a grand assembly of palace servants and elders, proclaiming Kemi as his adopted daughter and investing her as Princess Kemi. He lavished affection and indulgences upon her, ensuring her every whim was catered to.
However, Prince Balogun's affection came with a condition; he forbade Princess Kemi from interacting with Prince Segun, fueling her with disdain for the young prince. In response, Prince Segun developed a strong dislike for Kemi.
Unbeknownst to the children, their animosity mirrored the long-standing tension between their fathers, Prince Abiodun and Prince Balogun.
As they grew, Princess Kemi and Prince Segun became pawns in a game of royal politics, their hatred and resentment simmering, awaiting the day it would boil over.
EPISODE 5
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."
TO BE CONTINUE.
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