chapter 8 We enjoy your lies..

"There is no such thing as bravery, only degrees of fear." - John Wainwright

"Father..." the king cut him off, redirecting their conversation.

"Have you received any news about your brother?" he inquired of the prince.

"Nothing substantial, but the most recent information I have is that he's become one of the most successful farmers in the Oyo kingdom, managing vast lands. He's thriving there," the prince responded.

"Ah, my son, a diligent and hardworking young prince. He bears a striking resemblance to your mother. When I look at him, I'm reminded of her... I regret not being able to protect your mother. I never anticipated that Niyi would hold resentment against me for not being there when your mother needed me," the king expressed with a touch of sadness.

"No, father, you've always been a caring father. Niyi is just a bit headstrong. He cares deeply for you. Whenever he sends messages, he inquires about you, though he's advised me not to let you know. He's simply displaying his stubbornness, but he truly loves you. We all know how deeply you loved mother," Prince Rogba assured, eliciting a smile from the king.

"Father, I've spoken with the general. We seek your permission and order to venture on a hunt for the beast. I wish to lead this hunt, and the general has tasked me with seeking your approval," Prince Rogba petitioned the king earnestly.

"As you're aware, I need to consult with the gods and the advisory council. I will provide you with feedback soon," the king responded, taking his seat upon the throne.

"Father, I wa..." the prince's sentence was abruptly cut off as a commoner burst into the room. The guards struggled to block his swift entrance, their efforts proving futile against his speed.

"Forgive us, Your Majesty!" the guards pleaded fearfully, prompting the king to pardon them with a wave of his hand.

"Who are you to disrespect the sanctity of the silver throne?" the king questioned, irritation evident in his tone.

"I implore you, Your Royal Majesty, I dare not show disrespect. I invoke the blood of Odùa coursing through your veins as I beg for your attention," the commoner pleaded in trembling fear.

"Identify yourself and state your origin," the king commanded, his patience wearing thin. The third prince entered the throne room and stood beside the king, mirroring Prince Rogba's position.

"I am Tunji, hailing from Agbegbemi's compound in Jantan's town, under the leadership of Duke Seyi. I am a farmer, as evidenced by my gberi garment tailored for farming, not hunting. I was toiling under the harsh sun in my farm, accompanied by my young son, when an unexpected strong gust of wind whisked my clothes away, depositing them in the mud. As I moved to retrieve them, they vanished into thin air. Such an occurrence is unprecedented in my experience, except for tales of warfare between the Oyo and Ibadan kingdoms, where Oyo's soldiers employed magic to conquer the soldiers of Ìbàdàn," Tunji recounted in rapid succession, his expression revealing his bewilderment.

"In a flash, a man emerged. He wore a strange and fearful attire and emanated a chilling aura. His face was etched with fear, accompanied by a fox that displayed a loyalty surpassing even that of a dog," Tunji continued. Before he could conclude his account, Prince Rogba interjected.

"Father, that's a beast—"

"Folktales!" the third prince retorted, his voice laced with skepticism.

"Continue," the king commanded, dismissing his son's interruption.

"He returned my clothes, now clean and dry, and handed me a symbolic message," Tunji added, revealing the message and the clothes. Prince Rogba signaled to the third prince, but received a rude look in response. Ignoring the third prince's reaction, Prince Rogba collected the items from Tunji and motioned for him to leave.

"Wait!" Prince Rogba called out suddenly, capturing the attention of both the king and the third prince. Tunji knelt once more.

"We see through your fabrications," Prince Rogba chuckled, amusement evident in his tone. "Guards! Detain him," he ordered with a triumphant smile.

...

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