The long-awaited day for the inauguration of the next king of Sakoma finally came. The people of the town gathered at the Sakoma Palace in large numbers. Children ran about, young men and women stood proudly, and the elders sat with dignity. Everyone was present—even Kare, the famous gossiper of the land.
Kare, with his usual sharp tongue, spoke loudly:
"Since the gods refused to speak and the late king's council just selected a new king, I only hope we will not suffer for this decision."
One of the villagers standing beside him, Mr. Vadila, shook his head and replied, "Kare, you will never change from gossip. How do you know the gods were not involved in the selection of this king? Don't you know the king's council follows the tradition? They must consult the gods before making such a decision."
Kare hissed. "Sit there and deceive yourself, thinking this present king was chosen by the gods. You don't know me—nothing is hidden from my eyes. I know how things flow in this land. I may not be in the palace, yet I still know."
Another woman who overheard their exchange laughed and said, "Kare, Kare! Truly, you are the great gossip of this land. We know you have ears everywhere and eyes that see far. But on this matter, I don't believe you."
Mr. Vadila added, "Yes, Kare. For once, your words carry no weight."
Kare shrugged. "If you like, believe me. If you don't like, leave it. One day, the truth shall surely come to light."
As an African proverb says, "The lie may last for twenty years, but the truth will catch up with it in a single day."
The people ignored Kare's words and turned their attention to the ceremony. Drums rolled, dancers displayed their skills, and singers raised their voices in songs of praise. The air was full of joy, yet many noticed something strange—the high priest was absent on such an important day.
The villagers murmured until the prime minister raised his staff and spoke:
"My people, are we not happy to be here to witness the inauguration of the third king of the Sakoma Kingdom?"
The villagers responded in unison, "We are! For we desire a king who will rule us and fight for our land."
"Yes," the prime minister continued, "you may have observed that the high priest is not here. Do not be troubled. He has gone on a journey to the spirit realm. He will return in due time. Nothing is hidden from him."
The people breathed a sigh of relief. Then came the moment they had all been waiting for. The crown was brought forward. As it was placed on the new king's head, the people bowed low and chanted:
"Long live the King of Sakoma!"
The new king, Egado, lifted his hands and replied, "May God be with you, my people, and bless you all."
They responded in unison, "Amen! Long live the king!"
The celebration continued. Masquerades entertained the crowd with breathtaking displays, dancers filled the square, and singers praised their new ruler:
"King Egado, the lion himself!
King Egado, the powerful one!
You will live long!
You will fight for us!
The gods will protect you and keep the kingdom safe in your hands!
Egado! Egado the King!"
When the festivities ended, everyone returned to their homes with joy in their hearts.
Meanwhile, far from the noise of celebration, Paramodice and Princess Oasi remained in the forest, waiting for dawn. The princess broke the silence.
"My love," she said softly, "are you sure we should embark on this journey tomorrow to the Peninsula Kingdom? Let us stay here in the forest. After all, we are not of this kingdom, and none of our family is there."
Paramodice held her hands gently. "Do not worry, my princess. Just know that God is sending us there for a purpose."
Deep inside, however, Paramodice's heart was heavy. He thought of the hardships his beloved princess would endure. She had only ever known palace life—soft beds, sweet meals, and the comfort of servants. But now, she would face trials in a strange land.
The princess studied his face. "Hope there is nothing? You seem far away in thought. Is there something you are keeping from me?"
Paramodice forced a smile. "No, my princess. I was only planning a great future for our children—a boy who will be like me, and a girl who will be like you."
She laughed, her eyes shining. "That is also my wish, my love."
They both laughed together, and for a moment, their worries melted away.
"Let us sleep, my love," said Oasi.
"Yes," Paramodice replied softly. "Tomorrow is a long day."
They lay down and drifted into sleep beneath the watchful eyes of the forest.
At dawn, the cock crowed, announcing the new day. It was time for Paramodice and the princess to leave the Peninsula Evil Forest and step into the Peninsula kingdom itself.