chapter 22 the beginning of the treason

In the imperial palace...

The second queen expressed her happiness to her son. "My son, your bravery in saving your brother has become well-known throughout the kingdom," she said with pride. The third prince raised a question. "Mother, do you doubt me?"

The queen reassured him. "No, my son, I trust you. Now that your courage is acknowledged, it's time to establish a strong connection with the general and his son. Have you considered the possibility of marrying his daughter?" she suggested.

However, the third prince had concerns. "But remember, the first prince still holds influence with the Ida's clan and has powerful allies by his side," he reminded his mother.

The queen offered a strategic solution. "What if we spread rumors that the prince has denied his birthright? This could sway the advisory council to support you," she proposed, a smile on her face.

"Good idea, Mom. I'm thinking of organizing a grand feast for the princes and princesses. I have a plan in mind," the third prince shared before adorning his royal coral beads and exiting the room.

"Well done, my son, the descendant of the great king of the silver throne," the queen praised her son's ambitions. Just then, the fourth prince entered the room and questioned his mother's intentions.

"You should support your brother. Once he becomes king, he'll take care of you and your sisters," the queen advised the fourth prince.

... Arẹwa's journey continues...

"After swearing our loyalty to the Ojumọ Kingdom, they still invaded us... hahaha," he cried until his tears ran dry.

His friend retrieved his sword and returned it to him. "Let's fight alongside each other and build a kingdom that no one can conquer," his friend encouraged him. They united their forces, occupied the Ojumọ Kingdom, and seized the throne after several years. Ògúngbádé was crowned king, and he bestowed upon his friend a noble title, naming him Ekun. They expanded their kingdom's territory with a formidable military and enjoyed happiness with their families.

However, fate took a turn. One fateful night, their realm was attacked by spirits and goblins. "Spirits and goblins?" Ekun was taken aback by the assault. The evil entities proved overwhelming, and despite their efforts, the creatures overpowered their armies. In a desperate turn of events, the king and Ekun joined the battle.

Gradually, the tide shifted. Ògúngbádé and his forces gained the upper hand. The evil spirits and goblins found it difficult to comprehend that they were unable to stand against ògúngbádé's might. Who was this man? How was he so extraordinarily strong? Weren't they dealing with a mere human?

Ògúngbádé continued to fight valiantly, and the battle's outcome fluctuated. The tide shifted once more, as they advanced toward the top of the gate, a relentless force. With his comrades fallen, ògúngbádé and his friend remained among the few left standing.