Amino ran through the village path, her yellow gown brushing against the tall grass. Her heart beat fast—not just from anger, but from fear. Deep inside her, something had stirred.
She reached a quiet stream, sat by the edge, and stared into the water. Her reflection rippled, but for a moment… it wasn't her face she saw—it was something else. Serpent eyes.
She gasped, backing away.
Then she heard it—a whisper. Soft, ancient, and powerful.
*"You are awakening…"*
Her hands trembled. This wasn't the first time she heard that voice. It only came when her emotions ran wild.
Meanwhile, iyango sat with his father. "Why did you attack her? She did nothing wrong!"
His father looked into his eyes, serious. "That girl is not what she seems. I saw a shadow around her—like a curse. Protect your soul, son. She carries a secret."
Back at the stream, Amino stood up. She wiped her tears and whispered to herself, "I can't hide anymore…