Adetunji and the Restless Kingdom.
Days passed in the kingdom of Ile-Oro, but peace did not return. The river stayed wild, and the sky often turned gray. Fishermen complained that no fish came near their nets. Farmers said their crops were drying too early.
The people whispered that the gods were angry.
Prince Adetunji knew the truth — it was because of his promise to Aramide. The mark on his arm now glowed even during the day. He tried to hide it under his robe, but it still shone through the cloth.
Adeyemi’s Decree and the Hidden Mark
King Adeyemi became worried. “The gods punish the land because of you,” he said one evening. “You will not leave the palace until the priest says it is safe.”
Tunji bowed his head but said nothing. Inside, he knew he could not keep that order.
That night, he sat near his window and whispered, “Aramide, can you hear me?”
A soft voice answered in his mind, “Yes, my prince. The curse spreads because our promise was true. The gods fear our bond.
Aramide’s Call Beneath the Moonlight
"What must I do?” Tunji asked.
“You must come to me once more,” she said, “but the path will be guarded. Only your courage can open it.”
Tunji stood up. He packed a small bag, took his father’s old sword, and wore a dark cloak. Before leaving, he went to Babatunde’s room.
“Brother,” Tunji said, “I am going to the river again.”
Babatunde woke with fear in his eyes. “You cannot. The priest said the guardian will return.”
“I must,” Tunji said. “If I do nothing, the curse will destroy everyone.”
Babatunde and the Journey Through the Forest
Babatunde looked at him for a long moment, then sighed. “Then I will go with you.”
They left quietly through the back gate. The moon was thin, and the night was cold. The forest was darker than before. Strange sounds moved between the trees — whispers, soft footsteps, and rustling leaves.
When they reached the sacred river, mist covered everything.
“Aramide!” Tunji called softly.
Aramide’s Warning and the Forbidden Journey
The water glowed blue, and she appeared, her face calm but full of sorrow.
“You came,” she said.
“I had to,” Tunji replied. “Tell me how to break the curse.”
She looked into his eyes. “You must find the Heart of Òsun, a golden stone hidden deep inside the forest. It is guarded by the spirits of the past. Only a soul that loves without fear can touch it.”
Babatunde looked scared. “Spirits of the past? That means death.”
Aramide nodded. “If you fail, the river will take you forever.”
Tunji took a deep breath. “Then I will not fail.”
She reached out her hand. A drop of water floated from her palm and landed on his mark. It shone brighter than ever.
“This will guide you,” she said. “But beware — the gods are watching.”
Suddenly, the trees shook. A deep growl echoed again — Eru Oba had returned.
Aramide’s eyes widened. “Go now! Follow the light before it is too late!”
Tunji grabbed Babatunde’s arm, and they ran into the forest. Behind them, the ground cracked, and fire burst through the mist.
The forbidden journey had begun.
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