The death of the King

ACT I

(Prince Tafirenyika aged 30 is sitting in his bedroom while heating himself with the fire. He seems distant. The room is decorated with people's head who looked like they were generals. Also there were several weapons hanged in the room which include swords, assegais, bows and arrows amongst others. Prince Tongai breaks the silence as he enters the room.)

Prince Tongai: Brother what are you thinking about, I have knocked the door for about three times but still you did not respond. Is something bothering you?

Prince Tafirenyika: Nothing at all I'm just thinking that when will we be able to go back home. It's been five years since we came here and we have not yet defeated the Teri. Father will be greatly disappointed.

Prince Tongai: Don't worry brother I think the end is coming, soon the Teri will surrender. (Prince Tongai leaves the room. He walks slowly to his room. Tomorrow morning, Lord Kira of Teri arrived in the court of Prince Tafirenyika)

Lord Kira: I have come here to agree on an alliance

Prince Tafirenyika: An alliance (He laughs) When we first arrived here five years ago did you not disagree on an alliance. You spat on my face swearing that you will never ever form an alliance with our kingdom.

Lord Kira: Things change my Prince. Both your kingdom and my kingdom are suffering so I thought it would be wise to form an alliance.

Prince Tafirenyika: That's great but you know how an alliance is formed right. I heard that you have a beautiful daughter.

Lord Kira: But my Prince...

Prince Tafirenyika: You desire an alliance but you can't offer your daughter. What kind of a lame alliance is that? I also need an assurance that you won't try to conquer our kingdom again!

Lord Kira: It shall be as you wish my Prince (he bows and exits Prince Tafirenyika court)

Prince Tongai: Brother did you have to request marriage.

Prince Tafirenyika: Why does it suddenly hurts you because it reminds you of your dead mother

Prince Tongai: Yes

Prince Tafirenyika: You never lie. (He laughs)I wish that one day you will understand. (Tomorrow morning Lord Kira comes back to Prince Tafirenyika's court with his daughter)

Lord Kira: Prince Tafirenyika this is my daughter

Prince Tafirenyika: How dare you mock me? Is it no enough that I have agreed to form an alliance with you? Bodyguard Masara give me my sword today Lord Kira dies.

Lord Kira: Have mercy on me my Prince. My oldest daughter committed suicide so I had no choice but to bring this child to you. Although she is only thirteen years old, she is very clever and can fight on the battle.

Bodyguard Masara: Prince Tafirenyika I suggest that this child must marry Prince Tongai instead since she is young.

Prince Tafirenyika: Ok that's great too. Prince Tongai will marry Danai today instead of me.

Prince Tongai: Brother! (He shouts) Prince Tafirenyika: Let us go inside and talk (Prince Tongai follows Prince Tafirenyika inside)

Prince Tongai: I first came here when was ten years old. I fought several battles which I never wanted to fight. I killed many people but I never wanted to do it. I just did as you asked because it was for the sake of our kingdom, but marriage is a different issue. This time I will do as I wish.

Prince Tafirenyika: Your wish you say. If it's for the sake of our kingdom there is no such thing as your wish. I told you yesterday that you must endure it right. If you can't then kill yourself. If you can't act like a Prince then die. (He gives Tongai a sword) Make your decision.

Prince Tongai: (he accepts the sword and holds it against his neck. He could not kill himself.) Today I will kill my heart and marry her. You told me to endure it right? I will endure it.

Prince Tafirenyika: Today there shall be a wedding between Prince Tongai the third son of Emperor Haina and Princess Danai the daughter of Lord Kira. (The wedding ended well and the alliance was agreed upon but the heart of Prince Tongai was still heavy. He sought to acquire power such that he will never be able to do things which are not of his will. Few months passed by and one day Prince Tafirenyika received news that his Father was gravely ill so he summoned the two princes to give them his last words)

ACT 2

(Prince Tongai and his wife are sleeping in their room. Prince Tongai seems to be restless in his sleep. He turns his head from side to side. He starts wailing like child. He starts to scream but Danai holds his hand.)

Princess Danai: Prince Tongai! (She shouts) Prince (she continues to shout. Prince Tongai wakes up from his nightmare. Sweat slowly tickled from his forehead and was breathing heavily) what is it Prince. Did you have another nightmare again?

Prince Tongai: It's nothing just go back to sleep. I will go outside to get some fresh air. (He goes outside. Danai follows him.)

Princess Danai: What kind of dream did you dream that always makes you weak?

Prince Tongai: Why are you so concerned? It's not the first time this has happened after all.

Princess Danai: That's why I'm worried. For how long must you live like this? (Tears rolled down her cheeks)

Prince Tongai: Why do you shed your tears? I don't tell you what I dream about because it will only make you worry.

Princess Danai: Please tell me my Prince. I will bear your worries with you.

Prince Tongai: These days I'm having bad dreams, but I keep repeating the same dream over and over again

Princes Danai: Please tell me

Prince Tongai: My father and my late mother were together in a very big forest which was full of life. They seemed to be too happy so I followed them. They right in front of me but they vanished without trace. I then looked around and saw pigs which were eating each other. The pigs produced springs of blood. Then I heard a voices which said that I must die. I then woke up

Princes Danai: It was indeed a bad dream. Don't worry it shall soon come to pass.

Prince Tongai: I hope so

Princess Danai: Would you mind if I tell you a story.

Prince Tongai: Why a story.

Princess Danai: I just remembered that if I did not marry you, I would probably be hearing folktales. That was the best thing in my life. It made forget about all the worries of the world and took me to a new word which is full of life.

Prince Tongai: Ok bring it on

Princess Danai: Long time ago there was once a young handsome man named Kushereketa. He was a hunter, then one day he decided to visit his aunt who lived in another village which was miles away. As he was on his way he found a family that was eating sadza and salt. He pitied them and gave them meat. As payment that family gave him a chair. He walked again and found an elderly man sitting on the ground together with his thirty wives. He gave that man a chair so that he gains respect. As payment that man gave him a cow. As he walked he found certain ladies who were milking frogs. He gave the ladies the cow. The ladies milked the cow to an extent that milk stopped coming out of the cow. Kushereketa was very angry and decided that he should take one of the ladies as his maid. He asked the lady to brew beer for him but the lady could not satisfy his taste. He was so angry that he asked the lady what he must do with him. The lady said, " My Master don't you know that if a lady fails to brew beer for her Master, the ancestors desired her as a daughter- in- law so from now on I am your wife" Kushereketa had no choice but to take her as his wife. He continued his journey and introduced his wife to his aunt. (She pauses)

Prince Tongai: Then what?

Princess Danai: That's the end. Let's go and sleep tomorrow we have a long journey ahead of us (they returned back to their room

Tomorrow morning Prince Tafirenyika, Prince Tongai, Princess Danai and some few soldiers left the border. They journeyed for about three day until they arrived at the palace. )

Prince Tafirenyika: Let's go meet father first

Prince Tongai: That's right

Emperor Chiko: There is no need for that. Father is already dead. He crowned me Emperor before he died.

Prince Tongai: There is no way he could have done that Prince Tafirenyika is the oldest son so he must be the one to take the throne

Emperor Chiko: Shut that dirty mouth of yours you slave child. Are you implying that I'm lying right now?

Prince Tongai: That's not it brother. I just...

Emperor Chiko: Brother. (He laughs) I don't remember having a brother like you

Prince Tafirenyika: Enough you two

Emperor Chiko: Soldiers lock these two up in a jail such that they won't be able to see the sun again

Prince Tafirenyika: Brother don't do this to us. One day you shall regret it

Emperor Chiko: Where is Prince Nhamo and Princess Makanaka?

Prince Nhamo: I am here

Emperor Chiko: What about Makanaka?

Prince Nhamo: She is preparing for the funeral. She will be here soon

Emperor Chiko: I wanted her to meet these traitors but it's a shame that she is not available. Nhamo you should make sure that those three must never see the sun again

Prince Nhamo: Ok Emperor (Prince Nhamo leads Prince Tongai, Prince Tafirenyika and princess Danai to the underground jail. He deliberately drops the keys that unlocks the chain and pretends that he did not see them. He leaves the room while he slightly blows his whistle and starts to talk alone)

Prince Nhamo: Emperor Chiko it looks like your footsteps will soon be shortened. Soon that throne will be mine and no one will dare complain about my right to the throne because they will also be dead. (He smile as he exits the jail)

ACT 3

(Prince Tafirenyika, Prince Tongai and Princess Danai are staying in the underground jail .It is very dark and frightening. Prince Tongai picks up the keys that Prince Nhamo had dropped. Princess Danai steps on something and starts to scream because she discovered that it was bone of dead a dead person.)

Prince Tongai: Why are you screaming it's just a bone? Come stay close to me (Princess Danai goes to the side where Prince Tongai is.)

Prince Tafirenyika: We must escape since we have got the keys.

Prince Tongai: Ya that's right. Tomorrow Chiko will be going to Gombe to bury Father so obviously he will take few people with him because he does not want rumours about father's death to spread. We will grab that chance and kill him.

Princess Danai: I don't think it's a good idea

Prince Tafirenyika: I believe that I didn't ask for your opinion sister-in-law

Prince Tongai: Why did you say that my wife? I know that you don't say anything without a reason.

Princess Danai: I saw Prince Nhamo deliberately dropping the keys. If you are not careful you will fall into his trap.

Prince Tafirenyika: But he is not the type to do that. Besides you don't know him

Princess Danai: I must confess that I have never seen him and I don't know him, but I felt a strange aura when I saw him. He is like a fox that deceives others and his heart devises wickedness. That man won't stop until he sees blood. Today I Danai the daughter of Lord Kira begs you not to leave this place

Prince Tafirenyika: Tomorrow I will go come rain or thunder

Prince Tongai: I will stay.

Prince Tafirenyika: But brother...

Prince Tongai: I'm sorry brother Prince Tafirenyika: Ok its fine I will go with bodyguard Masara. (From that moment onwards no one talked to each other. There was silence until a strange sound came from the other room.)

Princess Danai: Did you hear that. I think someone is in this room Prince Tongai: But there is no room other than this.

Prince Tafirenyika: I doubt it. I think there is another room underground.

Princess Danai: I think so too but it's too dark in here. I can't see.

Prince Tongai: Let us slowly hit them ground till we found a spot which produces the greatest sound.

(They started searching in the room till they discovered the secret door. They went into the room and discovered an old lady who was sitting on her mat. The room seemed lively as if she always stays with someone. There were candles everywhere to provide light. Prince Tafirenyika looks shocked and break the silence.)

Prince Tafirenyika: Is that you Aunt Makaitei. I thought that you were dead

Aunt Makaitei: Yes it's me. I wanted to die but I won't die until I finish my mission. Your Father wanted to kill me and starved me for many days but I could not die so your Father has been secretly taking care of me.

Prince Tafirenyika: Father is dead Aunt Makaitei: I know. I foresaw his death years ago that's why he locked me up. (She stares Prince Tongai) You have grown a lot Tongai you even have a wife.

Prince Tongai: You know me

Aunt Makaitei: Of cause I know you. I'm sorry that I could not protect you.

Prince Tongai: It's fine Aunt as long as we are both alive

Aunt Makaitei: Yes that's true. (They continued to talk till midnight and Prince Tafirenyika decides that he will also escape with Aunt Makaitei and she agrees. They went back to their jail and slept since tomorrow awaited them.

Tomorrow morning Prince Tafirenyika and Aunt Makaitei escaped from the jail. Prince Tongai and his wife remained in jail while anxiously waiting for the news. As Prince Tafirenyika, Aunt Makaitei and Masara were on their way to Gombe, Aunt Makaitei decided that she should return back.)

Prince Tafirenyika: Why do you want to go back?

Aunt Makaitei: I think you know the reason.

Prince Tafirenyika: I don't know what you are talking about.

Aunt Makaitei: You don't know. You really don't know. You threatened your father that you will kill Tongai if he does not give you the throne. Did you think that I didn't know that? You and Nhamo killed my brother. Do you think that the gods will forgive you?

Prince Tafirenyika: That does not matter as long as I will gain my throne. I may have deceived Tongai but one day he will understand.

Aunt Makaitei: You are pathetic. You fight but you don't win. You desire but don't acquire. Many people desire to rule but they shall not rule. You don't rule because you just want to rule but you rule because you must rule. Because you are an evil son who desired your father's position you shall surely die. You shall not be buried and shall be eagle's food. Now I'm going back

Prince Tafirenyika: That's why my father wanted to kill you. Your insolence goes beyond the sky that's why I'm going to kill you. (He raises his sword to kill Makaitei but he could not struck her instead he watches her being swallowed by the thick trees till he no longer see her. Prince Tafirenyika and Masara continue their journey to Gombe where the king was being buried. After an hour Prince Tafirenyika arrived at the cave. He thought that Prince Nhamo was going to help him kill Emperor Chiko but instead he pulled an arrow into his heart and immediately fell on ground. Prince Nhamo runs towards him to make sure that he has died. Prince Tafirenyika starts to talk.)

Prince Tafirenyika: Why Nhamo. Why have you betrayed me? (Blood oozes down from his chest. Tears and blood dropped from his eyes)

Prince Nhamo: I never betrayed you because I was not with you in the first place. I'm on my side.

Prince Tafirenyika: The gods are going to punish you (he breathes his last and die. Prince Nhamo pushes the body down the cliff. )

Prince Nhamo: (to Masara) do you also want to die like your master. If not pledge your allegiance to Emperor Chiko but always remember that I hold your life in my hands. (Masara drops his sword and kneels and he starts shouting)

Bodyguard Masara: Long live, long live Long live emperor Chiko (Emperor Chiko smile and he tells his subjects to proceed with the burial ceremony.)

ACT 4

(At the entrance of Gombe cave, Princess Makanaka kneels down and stares the rock until it slowly start to move. She drinks a cup of beer and starts talking.)

Princess Makanaka: Eh!

Our ancestors

Our protector

The owner of this land

Just as a flower grows it wilts on its time

We have come here with your child.

Allow us to enter into your home and lay your child.

(She codes four royal soldiers who have the duty to take care of the Emperor's body to enter into the cave with the body. They made the body sit next to King Farai who was Emperor Hainan's father. They placed the skin of cow under his toes. Emperor Haina looked like he was still alive while wearing his royal clothes made from leopard's skin. He had his gold crown on his head. His right hand was holding his spear and on his left hand was a knobkerrie. The four soldiers left the cave.)

Emperor Chiko: I want to go inside the cave

Ruru, Sera, Pfuwa, and Weda: (altogether) it shall not happen.

Emperor Chiko: Whose path are you blocking now! Do you have a death wish?

Ruru: Forgive me but it is not allowed for you to enter into the cave unless Emperor Haina says so.

Emperor Chiko: The dead can't talk. Now move

Ruru: Emperor please I beg you don't say such disloyal words. Emperor Haina may be dead but his spirit still dwells with us.

Prince Nhamo: (he whispers in Emperor Chiko's ear) If you don't do as you wish now, these people will never ever follow your orders. You will not be considered as their emperor and your power will be rendered useless. Now show them your true power.

Emperor Chiko: Whether you like it or not, I'm going into the cave.

Ruru: Please I beg you. Don't enter into the cave? (Emperor Chiko pushes Ruru away and he proceeds to enter into the cave. As he enters the cave he saw tress talking to each other while laughing out loudly and clapping with its branches. He immediately went out of the cave.)

Ruru: Emperor are you ok

Emperor Chiko: Of cause I'm ok. I'm tired, let's go back to the palace. (They returned back to the palace. As soon as they arrived to the palace they released Prince Tongai and his wife from the jail.)

Emperor Chiko: Prince Tafirenyika is dead so from now on watch how you act because you might receive the same fate as him

Prince Tongai: He is dead? How did he die? Please tell me.

Emperor Chiko: He was killed by Nhamo because he wanted to kill me.

Prince Tongai: What about his body. Where is his body?

Emperor Chiko: He fell down the cliff. I think he is now the food of vultures (he laughs)

Prince Tongai: Still he was our brother how you could do this to me

Emperor Chiko: You make me laugh. He may have been my brother but at least I did not come from the same stomach as him. His mother is not my mother. I may be cruel but Nhamo is crueller than me. He killed his blood brother. At least his mother is dead. I guess she is turning in her grave. (He chuckles)

Prince Tongai: You are both cruel. (He grabs his wife and prepares to go to his room)

Emperor Chiko: You now have a wife. I heard that you did not want to marry her. I guess it's true seeing that she is not yet pregnant.

Prince Tongai: Shut your mouth.

Princess Danai: Let's go honey do no bother with him.

Prince Tongai: I didn't want to say this Emperor but I heard that your lovely wife shared her bed with your bodyguard and you failed to kill your wife because her father is very rich so you were afraid that her father may no longer support

Emperor Chiko: Prince Tongai!

Prince Tongai: Lower your voice, you will scare my wife (Prince Tongai leaves with his wife and leaves Emperor Chiko angry.)

Emperor Chiko: That rude jerk. I will teach him a lesson one day. (He talks to himself.)

(At midnight Ruru, Sera, Pfuwa and Weda blows the trumpet on Mount Chiroro to notify people about the death of Emperor Haina. Tomorrow morning all the hierarchy was gathered at the palace to mourn Emperor Haina. They spend the whole month of October mourning the king. Fake burial was done to appease the subjects. On the last day of mourning, Emperor Chiko was officially crowned Emperor. There was great joy but Prince Nhamo was not happy about this. He started to paint a picture where he will be the leader of the jungle.)

ACT 5

(Emperor Chiko is ruling his kingdom wisely with the help of his subjects. In October the rain did no come so people are becoming restless. Emperor Chiko is now worried that drought may come so he sought Prince Nhamo to give him advice.)

Emperor Chiko: Please help me. What should I do?

Prince Nhamo: Every time drought occurs the emperor is tired...?

Emperor Chiko: So you mean that I'm to blame.

Prince Nhamo: I have not yet finished talking. But if someone breaks a law, then that person is to be blamed.

Emperor Chiko: But no one in my kingdom dares to break any law. So who can I blame?

Prince Nhamo: Do you remember that Ruru tried to stop you from entering into the cave.

Emperor Chiko: Yes I remember. What about it.

Prince Nhamo: He committed a serious crime and angered the gods. So he will pay for his crime through death. After that we will hold our rainmaking ceremony.

Emperor Chiko: But isn't that too cruel to blame someone who is innocent

Prince Nhamo: The emperor isn't someone who is nice either

Emperor Chiko: That's right. Masara go and capture all the family members of Ruru today they will pay for their crime.

Masara: It shall be as you wish Emperor (Masara and other soldiers went to the resident of Ruru and captured him. They dragged Ruru and his family members to the palace where they were going to be judged.)

Ruru: Emperor what is the meaning of this. What have my family done to deserve this kind of treatment.

Emperor Chiko: You don't know your crime? That's funny. You have caused drought in my kingdom due to your rude behaviour and I suggest that you must pay with your blood. My subjects what do you say about that.

Lord Taurai: I as the highest official and Emperor's father in law suggest that Ruru must be punished. He wants to rule the Emperor so he must die

Emperor Chiko: What about others what do you say about Ruru.

Prince Tongai: I don't think that he deserves to die.

Emperor Chiko: Shut your mouth. In this court you don't give your opinion.

Ruru: Please don't kill my wife and my child. You all know that I sacrificed myself to this kingdom. I married when I was forty-five after accomplishing my mission of taking care of caves. I went further and helped emperors rule this kingdom. You can't do this to me.

Emperor Chiko: Ok I will save your wife and your daughter

Farai: I shall die with my husband. I don't need your pity.

Yemurai: I will die with my parents.

Ruru: My daughter you can't die. Survive such that you will avenge my death.

Yemurai: Father don't do this.

Ruru: You must survive, that's an order.

Yemurai: I shall do as you say father. (Ruru and Farai drinks poison in front of everyone. They died within 45 seconds. Yemurai did not cry and that surprised everyone. Soldiers came and removed the bodies.)

Emperor Chiko: What should we do with the girl?

Prince Nhamo: I will marry her

Princess Danai: No you shall not marry the girl! (She shouts that even Prince Tongai was shocked.)

Emperor Chiko: I think we will decide her fate after tomorrow's ritual. The court is now dismissed. (The court dismisses and Princess Danai seems very angry. Prince Nhamo decides to take Yemurai to his private palace in the name of protection.)

Prince Nhamo: Do you remember me. I saw you during the first moon dance festival.

Yemurai: And

Prince Nhamo: You danced well. I have never seen anyone in my life who dances so well

Yemurai: So

Prince Nhamo: I wish to marry you. I heard that you turning fifteen this year. You are no longer a child.

Yemurai: I will think about it. Now may you please allow me to rest I'm tired. Thank you very much for your offer. I have always wanted to marry a Prince. I guess my dream is finally coming true. Now I can't wait for tomorrow morning.

(Prince Nhamo leaves the room smiling very happily. At night Yemurai heard a slight knock on her window. She became very weak because she thought that it was Prince Nhamo but later on she heard a slight voice calling her name then she discovered that it was her slave Munodawafa. She quickly opened the door.)

Yemurai: Munodawafa it's you I'm very glad that you have come. I was worried about you.

Munodawafa: I'm glad that I have met you. I thought I will see you again.

Yemurai: But why are you wearing same clothes as mine. You used to hate it.

Munodawafa: You know that I love you very much right. When I was little you always took care of me. Although I was an orphan, I never thought of it because you always made me cheerful

Yemurai: Why are you saying that all of a sudden?

Munodawafa: Promise me that whatever I do you will never ever blame yourself.

Yemurai: Munodawafa: Promise me

Yemurai: Tell me. What's going on?

Munodawafa: I'm going to die soon, but you must survive. Now leave this place. Don't cry. (She spills paraffin on herself and starts fire. Yemurai stares her but she gives her a sign that she must run away. Yemurai leaves Prince Nhamo's resident. Soon the hut caught the fire. Prince Nhamo's private soldiers tried to put out the fire but they failed. The hut burnt to ashes. As Yemurai was running away she meets Prince Tongai on her way.)

Prince Tongai: You what are you doing here.

Yemurai: Please don't ask any more questions just let me go

Prince Tongai: I'm not stopping you. I just want to know what happened

Yemurai: Prince Nhamo proposed marriage to me. I lied that I was going to marry him then my friend sacrificed her life for me and helped me escape.

Prince Tongai: Ok go in peace. May the gods protect you.

Yemurai: Thank you I shall not forget you. And please watch your wife and don't trust anyone (Yemurai left and went to live in the sacred forest called Chirikuutsi were she met Aunt Makaitei.)

ACT 6

(The next day after the escape of Yemurai, Prince Nhamo went to inform the court officials about the death of Yemurai. The body of Munodawafa was burnt to an extent that everyone thought that it was Yemurai. The body was buried alongside Ruru and Farai's graves. The Emperor took all the possessions of Ruru. That day a ceremony was done to beg forgiveness to the ancestors for the crime of Ruru of disobedience during the burial of the Emperor. A bull was slaughtered and its blood was offered to the ancestors. The Emperor and Princess started preparing for the rainmaking ceremony. The whole week the entire kingdom was busy. Princess Makanaka and other few old ladies who are not able to conceive prepared the beer. On the day of the ceremony people gathered under the Muhacha tree and waited for the ceremony to commence.)

Princess Makanaka: Thank you all for coming to the first rainmaking ceremony in the reign of Emperor Chiko. I will now commence the ceremony. (She take a cup of beer and starts talking to the ancestors)

Hevo, Changamire!

Today under your tree your children are gathered here we beg for your grace

Where else can we beg?

Your children are dying

Baobabs sigh because of the sun

The grass is bleached It rattles and shimmer

The rivers have dried up There is no food for our animals

Dogs are too weak to bark

They stare at phantasmagorical thieves

Because there is no food

Your children weep sandy tears

Please give us a drop of water

You are the parents

To all the ancestors

Hear is your beer (She spills beer on the ground)

Please spread the news

To those with forgotten names

Please tell Nyadenga the Musikavanhu

That this is our plea

If a man cries it means that he is tired

E! Our Ancestors

(They clap their hands. Makanaka takes a bowel full of beer and leaves it under the Muhacha tree. People left to their respectable dwelling. At night princess Makanaka went back to the Muhacha tree and spilled the beer but unfortunately Prince Tongai saw that. Tomorrow morning few officials went back to the Muhacha tree and discovered that the bowel of beer was empty. They were so happy because they thought that it was the work of their ancestors. They returned back to the palace with the good news. The court officials were so happy when they heard about the news except Prince Tongai. That day the court dismissed early. However that year ended without rains.

Prince Tongai was always worried about the words of Yemurai because Princess Danai refused to sleep with him. Prince Tongai decided to test his wife. One day they we sleeping in their bedroom then Prince Tongai woke up. Princess Danai had no choice but to wake up too)

Princess Danai: What is it? Did you have another nightmare again?

Prince Tongai: I think Princess Makanaka is in love with someone? Last year Princess Makanaka was the one who spilled the bowel of beer. The ancestors did not drink the beer. I think that's why the rains are not coming

Princess Danai: Why did you not say anything last year?

Prince Tongai: I thought that I was having hallucinations but seeing that the rains I coming, I think I saw right thing.

Princess Danai: So are you going to say anything in the court.

Prince Tongai: I'm not going to say anything who listens to me anyway. I'm going to sleep

Princess Danai: Ok let's sleep. (As soon as Danai realised that Prince Tongai had slept she work up and wrote a letter. She slowly opened the door and disappeared into the dark. Prince Tongai followed her and he saw her giving the letter to Prince Nhamo)

Princess Danai: I think that you must control Makanaka with this

Prince Nhamo: Ya that's true. Also I suggest that if you want anything from me, just send a letter and put it under my doormat because nobody suspects that.

Prince Nhamo: Ok (they hug each other and went separate ways. Of Princess Danai returns to her room and Prince Tongai was not in the room. Few minutes later Prince Tongai enters the room.)

Prince Tongai: Where have you been? I been searching for you everywhere.

Princess Danai: I was outside, just thinking.

Prince Tongai: What were you thinking about? Just tell me. I'm your husband you know

Princess Danai: I'm afraid that you will leave me once I tell you this.

Prince Tongai: I will never leave you.

I promise Princess Danai: Well when I was ten years old, I loved going into forests while feeling its scent, but one day I met a group of guys who raped me.

Prince Tongai: So you are not yet ready to sleep with me right. Don't worry me won't force you until you are ready

Princess Danai: Thank you.

Prince Tongai: Don't say that between husband and wife.

(I guess you think that I'm a fool right, you shall for mocking me. I gave up gaining power because I thought you loved it. But it was all a lie. When I think about what I endured because of you my blood boils. You ripped my heart and tossed it into a seething cauldron where it is boiling. You shall pay for this Danai. All these thoughts clouded Prince Tongai as he slowly rubbed Princess Danai's hand)

ACT 7

(Prince Nhamo summons Princess Makanaka. Innocent Makanaka thought that his brother wanted to surprise her but instead her brother threw a bombshell to her.)

Prince Nhamo: I heard that my dear sister was in love so I thought that I should give her a present.

Princess Makanaka: I don't what you are talking about Prince Nhamo.

Prince Nhamo: You don't know! You don't know! During the rainmaking ceremony you dared to prepare beer for our ancestors when you clearly knew that you were no longer a virgin. How dare you

Princes Makanaka: I don't know what you are talking about.

Prince Nhamo: You went further and spilled the ancestor's beer and made people believe that it was the work of the ancestors. You Makanaka caused the drought. Our people are starving yet you are lavishly enjoying your life. I will kill you.

Princess Makanaka: Yes brother I did all of that but I didn't cause the drought. The rains were supposed to come in October but they did not come and we prepared beer in November instead of September.

Prince Nhamo: Shut your mouth!

Princess Makanaka: You close your mouth and listen to what I'm going to say. You think that the gods are not angry. Do you think that I'm stupid? You pretend that you worry about the people yet you don't care about them at all. What exactly do you do here at the palace except to cause chaos? You are exactly like your mother who caused the death of Prince Tongai's mother. You desire power you can't control.

Prince Nhamo: You are coming strong my sister. I knew you would say that that's why I sent assassins to kill your lover.

Princess Makanaka: I never had such a lover (she raises up)

Prince Nhamo: I told them not to kill him instantly but to kill him slowly. One stab at a time till he dies.

Princess Makanaka: (she kneels down) please save him

Prince Nhamo: Finally we are on the same page.

Princess Makanaka: What is it that you want from me? If you wanted me dead you would have confessed my crime to the court and I would have been stoned to death by our people.

Prince Nhamo: You are quite smart. What exactly did Chamunorwa do to make you this low?

Princess Makanaka: Stop talking nonsense, just get to the point?

Prince Nhamo: Ok you know that Emperor Chiko entered the cave where kings are buried right.

Princess Makanaka: Of cause I know.

Prince Nhamo: He has started having hallucinations. I believe that he is also hearing sounds. My sister I want you to cast a curse upon him that makes him go insane

Princess Makanaka: You want me to kill my own blood brother. You are insane. I never do that

Prince Nhamo: You will because I will make you do so. Just remember that if you don't kill him, he will be the one to kill you. I guess you remember the story of our father and Aunt Makaitei. So silence means that you agree with me then I hope that I can see the results tomorrow morning in the court. (Prince Nhamo exits the room and leaves Princess Makanaka inside. At midnight, Princess Makanaka woke up naked and took her bracelet. She went to the room of Emperor Chiko and started talking while staring at Chiko)

My ancestors I have come here today

My heart is heavy

Hear my cry

Just as the moon and sun have their own home

I desire to have my home

But Tembo Mazvimbakupa won't allow me

Now please allow me

To do as my heart desire to his man

Do not hold me responsible

Have mercy on me

I thank you my ancestors

(She blows Emperor Chiko's forehead. After that she quickly leaves the room and went back to her own room. As usual tomorrow morning the Emperor attended the court. They were discussing on how to help their people avert drought. That's when the Emperor started talking gibberish, his eyes turned red. He started behaving like some sort of blood thirsty savage. He killed five court officials. After that he fell down and died. Everyone was shocked. Prince Nhamo was very angry and went to see Princess Makanaka.)

Prince Nhamo: I told you to make him go crazy. Why did you kill him?

Princess Nhamo: You were going to kill him soon or later? I just made your life easier. How dare you complain? I feel sorry for you. Do you think that if you take the throne you will gain everything you want? Stop fooling yourself you bastard. Today you have killed my brother and you will pay for that. Let's meet each other in hell (she vomits blood and die. Prince Nhamo felt trapped and suffocated. He could not believe what he saw. He felt as if five lightning crackled around his head. He saw the earth moving round and round and the next thing he was down. He heard voices calling out his name but could not answer. His fingers felt heavy for him too, he could not open his eyes. )

Princess Danai: Are you ok

Prince Nhamo: Mm (he could not move his fingers.) I'm ok.

Princess Danai: How could you say that you fainted and have been asleep for five hours now.

Prince Nhamo: What? Where is Tongai?

Princess Danai: He is in the court. He is pacifying the subjects. I guess the time has come sooner that I have expected. It's time for Tongai to die and you will take the throne without opposition.

Prince Nhamo: Can you manage

Princess Danai: Of cause don't worry. My nickname is Venom after all. Prince Tongai will die tomorrow. Now I'm going stay healthy. (She went outside and meets Masara.) You are Prince Nhamo's bodyguard right

Masara: Yes my Princess. Princess Danai: Take care of him Masara: Ok I shall do as you say

Princess Danai: Thank you. (She went to her room but could not find Prince Tongai. She took that chance and applied venom on her knife after some hours Prince Tongai enters the room.)

Princess Danai: Where have you been all this time? I was waiting for you.

Prince Tongai: After I finished pacifying the subjects I decided that I should have some fresh air.

Princess Danai: That's good that's why I was thinking of visiting the forest tomorrow for fresh air. Would you mind if we go together.

Prince Tongai: That's a good idea but I suggest that we go the cliff and watch Jeri River. It's close to the palace. We have a lot of work to do in the palace after all

Princess Danai: The cliff? That's a good idea (Tomorrow morning Prince Tongai and Princess Danai went to the cliff to view Jeri river)

Prince Tongai: I'm feeling a bit tired let me rest on this cliff

Princess Danai: Ok (she takes her knife and stabs Prince Tongai on his chest)

Prince Tongai: Why didn't you stab you in my heart

Princess Danai: Because it's the same. I applied venom in this knife. Very soon you will die. (She pushes Prince Tongai down the cliff into the river) Goodbye Prince Tongai. (She returns back to the palace and informed people that Prince Tongai had committed suicide.)

ACT 8

(Nhamo prepared the burial procedures of Emperor Chiko, Princess Makanaka and other officials. It took them almost a month. Some chiefs decided to break away from the state before Prince Nhamo was crowned Emperor. This weakened the state which was weakened. It was the time for Lord Kira of Teri seize the kingdom. On the day that Prince Nhamo was to be crowned emperor, Lord Kira waged a war and won. Prince Nhamo was arrested by Lord Kira. Princess Danai was not happy about happy so she decided to beg her father to release him.)

Princess Danai: Father...

Lord Kira: If you are here to talk about Nhamo don't bother. I'm going to hang him tomorrow in front of his people

Princess Danai: Father don't do this to me. You know how much I love him.

Lord Kira: What is love?

Princess Danai: Father! Have mercy on me. I sacrificed myself and married Prince Tongai when you knew you that loved Nhamo. I fought with my life such that you will have this kingdom and I have finished my mission. Now give me Nhamo

Lord Kira: Foolish child. Chamunorwa come and take Danai

Chamunorwa: Yes father. (To Danai) let's go (they left the room.)

Princess Danai: Brother when you heard that Makanaka was dead, what did you feel?

Chamunorwa: I felt nothing since I have never loved her

Princess Danai: I feel as if my heart is cut out. Chamunorwa: It shall soon come to pass.

Princess Danai: I guess this is what Prince Tongai felt or even worse.

Chamunorwa: Did you love him.

Princess Danai: I don't know. (She enters in her room and leaves Chamunorwa outside)

Chamunorwa: I am also hurt but what can I do. I can't betray my father (he talks to himself and leave.

Tomorrow morning Lord Kira hanged Prince Nhamo in front of the public to instil fear among the people such that opposition would not rise. Once again Masara survived and started to serve Emperor Kira. He served Emperor Kira in a good way and this made Lord Kira happy that he was given an army of 100 soldiers under his command. However Masara was no happy because his people were being exploited by the people of Kira. They continued to suffer. I year passed under Emperor Kira's rule. One day Emperor Kira suggested that Masara should marry her daughter.)

Emperor Kira: I think that you should marry my daughter

Masara: I really appreciate your kind gesture but I don't think that I'm worth it. Just as the sun likes to rule in during the day and the moon during the night, I also think that my position as your body guard is enough.

Emperor Kira: That is why I like you. You don't desire someone's position. Ok I would like you to recruit your own soldiers. This time choose people from your clan. I realised that my clan doesn't give you the respect you deserve.

Masara: Thank you. You are so benevolent. Today I shall visit the grave of my grandfather to tell him about the good news.

Emperor Kira: Do as you wish but please think about the marriage proposal

Masara: Ok (he leaves Emperor Kira's presence. He went to the forest as usual and went to his grandfather's grave. He spilled beer and starting talking) Grandfather it's been a long time since I visited you right. I missed you. The Emperor wants me marry his daughter. I don't know what to do. I think that my blood is too low to marry her. I think I should decline the offer right. Today I will stay with you for about three hours. (Once he saw that Prince Chamunorwa who followed him had returned he continued his journey to Gombe. Within few minutes he had arrived at his destination. He drew a sign at the entrance of the cave and the cave opened itself.)

Prince Tongai: You have finally come

Masara: Yes my Prince. Where is Yemurai and Aunt Makaitei? They are inside. I have to hurry and return to the palace. I'm being followed.

Yemurai: Masara you have come.

Masara: You are pregnant. I knew this was going to happen. Anyway where is Aunt Makaitei?

Yemurai: She is coming. Please sit. Oh there she is (Aunt Makaitei sits on the mat and Yemurai sits too.)

Masara: The time has come. Emperor Kira told me to form my own army and him also proposed marriage to me.

Aunt Makaitei: Oh that's good news.

Prince Tongai: When do you think is the best time to attack him.

Masara: I think on my wedding day when there will be many guest.

Aunt Makaitei: That's right. Tell him that the wedding will be three months from now on.

Masara: That's good. Now I will get going. I will continue updating you.

Prince Tongai: That's good but please be safe.

Masara: I shall (he leaves the cave to the palace)

ACT 9

(The next morning he told the Emperor Kira that he will marry his daughter. The Emperor was so happy about the good news and started preparing the wedding which was to occur in three months' time. Princess Danai was not that happy about her marriage but she had no choice but to abide to his Father's wish. Masara went to recruit his army which was strong as ever. In very step he took informed Prince Tongai about it. Days passed until the day of the wedding.

Prince Tongai and Aunt Makaitei were about to leave the cave to the palace.)

Aunt Makaitei: I know what you are afraid about, but don't worry it shall be a bloodless entry. You shall not blood. The gods will fight for you.

Yemurai: That's right go in peace. I wish that I would come with you but I can't

Prince Tongai: Don't worry my wife. (He leaves the cave with Aunt Makaitei and went to the palace. As soon as he arrives he met Princess Danai.)

Princess Danai: You, you. You are still alive.

Prince Tongai: It's all thanks to you.

Princess Danai: How did you survive?

Prince Tongai: I knew from the start that you never loved me and you plotted my death. Masara told me about your plans that you wanted to kill me so I drank antidote in advance to combat the poison. Masara suggested that I should go to the cliff with you so that I will make you believe that I'm dead. Masara waited for me at the mouth of the Jeri River. That's when I met Aunt Makaitei and Makanaka. They took me to the cave and Makanaka cured my wound since she is a physician. Your father should surrender that way I can keep your petty lives Princess Danai: You want me to beg for my life. Don't you know that a man never stops fighting until his guts spill out?

Prince Tongai: But which warrior can withstand a whole battalion of attackers surrounding him so thickly and wait for his guts to spill? (Princess Danai leaves Prince Tongai and Aunt Makaitei alone.)

Prince Tongai: Is it ok for me to let her leave Aunt Makaitei: Don't worry me believe that she will make the right choice. (Princess Danai went to see his father who. She went and served tea to her Father.)

Princess Danai: Soon I will no longer be your daughter but someone else's wife. I wish you happiness father

Emperor Kira: Why do you talk as if you will go somewhere? Are you trying to escape?

Chamunorwa: Yes. Are you going somewhere? I remember when you married Prince Tongai you served us tea.

Princess Danai: No it's not like that. It's because I am a bad daughter. (She cries)

Emperor Kira: Don't cry you will make me sad.

Princess Danai: Yes father. Now I will go and change into my wedding dress. The guest are waiting for us at the hall. (She left to her room and changed into her dress and went to the wedding hall but the groom was not there. Emperor Kira and Chamunorwa went into the hall. They could not find the groom inside. After some minutes Prince Tongai, Aunt Makaitei, Masara entered into the hall. Their surrounded the entire hall)

Prince Tongai: Kira, you have disgraced the gods of this kingdom but taking the throne which is not yours. Now you time has expired. You should leave the throne and go back to you kingdom. That is the last piece of respect that I can give you.

Emperor Kira: Leave the throne. You are telling me leave this throne. You don't know what I did to get this throne. You said will give respect right. Save that for yourself not me. I will die on this throne. You Masara I trusted you but you did this to me. You shall pay for this.

Prince Tongai: I wanted to give you respect but I guess you don't want it. Guards come and drag him out.

Princess Danai: please we give him respect until our last breathes.

Prince Tongai: Ok.

Princess Danai: Father, Chamunorwa we have had our time here now it's time for us to leave.

Emperor Kira: You have put poison in our drink right.

Princess Danai: I wanted to preserve our dignity. How can we live after we have those evil deed? To die is better than to be humiliated. Now father let us leave this hall, we don't deserve to be here (They left the hall and died outside. That day Prince Tongai was crowned Emperor. He returned the body of Emperor Kira, princess and Prince Chamunorwa to their kingdom. That day Yemurai went into labour and bore him a son and was named Tichatonga.)

Prince Tongai: You did great my Empress by bearing me a son. I guess it was hard for you.

Empress Yemurai: Not at all. But why are looking at me like that.

Prince Tongai: Because you are beautiful.

Empress Yemurai: I know that (she smiles) Do you remember that you used to say that I'm ugly and did not want me to cure to wound.

Prince Tongai: You remember that. But I remember a young lady standing tall like a gazelle. Staring me with brown watery and glowing eyes. Those eyes sent a powerful current that ignited my heart that was damp. I probably didn't want to believe that I loved you.

Empress Yemurai: Shhh, Tichatonga is now asleep (Emperor Tongai kisses Empress Yemurai on her cheek. They both laughed. They we so happy all their lives. The never suffered opposition since Emperor Tongai and Empress Yemurai were so benevolent.)

THE END

About The Author

Priviledge Yeukai Muteya was born in 2000 in Harare. She did her 'O' and 'A' level at Budiriro 1 High School. She enjoys writing novels, poems and quotes. She is currently studying law at the University of Zimbabwe