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 Literature › Re: The Group That Everyone Laughed At Must Save The Village by Divepen1(mod): 7:36am On Oct 11, 2024 |
Chapter 16 With Suberu and Yomi gone to visit the Queen and confirm the truths they had uncovered, the group felt a heavy sense of uncertainty. Adio, deep in thought as their horse trudged along, couldn’t shake his unease. He had stopped singing, a rare occurrence, and Feyisara, riding beside him, noticed. "You’ve stopped singing," she remarked softly, her head resting against him. Adio nodded, though he remembered she couldn’t see him. "Yes. I don’t know how we’ll tell the Chief the truth we know. And then there’s Balogun to face." Irede, sharp as ever, called from her horseback. "Don’t forget about Balogun! He’ll want answers too." The tension was thick as the group rode on in silence, save for the occasional rustling of leaves. The weight of their task hung over them, especially for Irede, who seemed to bear the brunt of everyone’s trust and expectations. Even when people tried to mock her, she was the one they listened to. Yet, the fatigue from the recent battle and their uncertainty about what lay ahead had silenced everyone. Eventually, Feyisara sighed, breaking the silence. "Segilola can talk to her father, and I’ll speak with mine." Her voice was tired, her body aching from the ordeal, but determination underlined her words. When they reached the Chief’s house, the reception wasn’t what they expected. Rather than relief or celebration, the air was thick with mourning. Soldiers had fallen in an ambush by the Ogara warriors, and the village had been thrown into grief. Segilola, still rattled by Ojo’s injury, seemed barely present, her focus consumed by worry for him. "I can only try," she said when Feyisara mentioned her father. It was clear her mind was elsewhere. Adio glanced at the group. They were all exhausted, physically and mentally. "Let’s tell them after we’ve slept for a bit," he suggested. "No," Segilola corrected him. "We’ll tell the leaders when we wake up. We have to warn them so people can be ready." Though they were too tired to argue, Olu muttered something about needing sleep, and Ojo, lying nearby, murmured in agreement. The night wore on, and despite their exhaustion, they managed to spread word of what they’d discovered. Panic spread quickly through the village, and instead of preparing for battle, people began packing their things, ready to flee. |
| Literature › Re: The Group That Everyone Laughed At Must Save The Village by Divepen1(mod): 7:35am On Oct 11, 2024 |
Chapter 15 After several attempts, the group finally reached the Ogaras, who were gathered around a fire. Irede felt the pressure to excel, knowing the Ogaras were feared fighters. Suberu's trust in her made her nervous, and Ojo emphasized the need for light so Adio could see Irede and vice versa. The team faced a dilemma: Suberu proposed going near the fire, but Segilola and Ojo debated the plan's risks. Segilola insisted on accompanying Ojo, while Suberu and Olu would distract the Ogaras. The plan was eventually settled, and Segilola and Ojo set traps while Suberu and Olu created a diversion. The execution went smoothly, with Olu's trick leading several Ogaras into the traps. Suberu and Yomi retrieved a torch and called for Irede. With Adio drumming, Irede felt invigorated, predicting the Ogaras' moves and fighting them effectively despite their aggression. When the last Ogaras fell, Suberu announced they had found Feyisara. Adio and Feyisara embraced, while Irede, exhausted, began to collapse. Segilola, holding a torch and Ojo, left immediately to seek help. Suberu and Yomi mounted horses with captured Ogaras and headed toward the Queen's palace. Before losing consciousness, Irede saw her team making their escape. "Farewell," she whispered as she drifted off. |
| Literature › Re: The Group That Everyone Laughed At Must Save The Village by Divepen1(mod): 7:35am On Oct 11, 2024 |
Chapter 14 Unlike before, when Suberu tried too hard to win, he now focused on the group's training, leaving winning as a secondary concern. Segilola had taken over their regimen, leading with efficiency and precision. Despite Suberu being made the leader due to his zeal, it was Segilola’s authority that held the group together. Suberu showed his dedication by arriving early, bringing gifts, and motivating the group during long hours of practice. Ojo, always experimenting, kept testing Irede and Adio with his strategies, which sometimes irked Irede enough to want to silence him. Despite this, the group discovered a critical tactic during their training: those who fought in support of Adio's music and Irede's moves gained a distinct advantage. Segilola was the first to try, defeating the boys effortlessly, and even Ojo won battles when supported by Adio's rhythm. However, without Irede, Adio’s music lost its strength. The group grew stronger, and they began to work as a coordinated unit, thanks to Ojo’s guidance. Meanwhile, Irede received blessings to visit other clans for additional training, with the group often accompanying her to watch. As the Chief prepared for Feyisara and Ajanaku’s wedding, Adio found more opportunities to spend time with Feyisara. Five days before the wedding, Suberu called the group together. "This is what we’ve been preparing for. Now, we show everyone what we’re made of," he announced. Ojo added his thoughts, warning them that something bigger was coming. "The animals are behaving strangely, birds are flying unusually, and the river is dirtier than usual. Something’s wrong." Despite some skepticism, Segilola supported Ojo’s observations, deducing that the Ogaras were planning a larger attack. "They must have raised a new army. We need to fight them here," she urged. Suberu agreed, suggesting they inform the Queen. But the group knew the Chief needed to believe them first. The urgency in their preparations heightened as the sounds of horns filled the air—Balogun’s men were already rallying. Despite their success in practice, Balogun doubted their readiness for real battle. "We’re no longer the last!" Segilola protested, but Balogun dismissed their accomplishments, leaving them behind to guard the border. Suberu and Ojo quickly realized that Balogun’s path wasn’t right. The Ogaras had left misleading tracks, and they suspected an ambush. "They’re planning something bigger," Ojo warned. Segilola pieced it together: the Ogaras had likely allied with a foreign army, and Feyisara was being held as leverage. Determined to rescue Feyisara and stop the looming threat, Segilola devised a strategy. Though Adio initially doubted the plan, they made adjustments until everyone agreed. "Let’s win them first," Irede declared, steeling herself for the battle ahead. With their new plan set, Suberu looked at the group. "We can do this." The fight for Feyisara—and their survival—was about to begin. |
| Literature › Re: The Group That Everyone Laughed At Must Save The Village by Divepen1(mod): 7:32am On Oct 11, 2024 |
Chapter 13 Adio wasn’t one to just agree right away. When Segilola told him to act like a fool and wait, he frowned. "I don’t see why I should," he argued. "I’ve worked hard. I want to show everyone what I can do, especially at Feyisara’s introduction." Segilola shook her head. "You’ll ruin everything if you show your hand too soon. Trust me. We need to stay quiet for now, or they’ll prepare for us." Adio crossed his arms. "I’m not afraid of anyone. I can take them on." "You’re not getting it," Segilola snapped, her eyes narrowing. "This isn’t about fear. It’s about strategy. If they think we’re weak, they won’t be ready when we finally show them what we’ve got. We’ll have the upper hand." Adio still wasn’t convinced, but he knew Segilola was smart. The others watched quietly, waiting to see if he’d listen. After a moment, he sighed. "Fine, I’ll wait. But when the time comes, I won’t hold back." "Good," Segilola replied with a grin. "We’ll make them regret underestimating us." The group agreed to keep their true skills a secret until they were ready to show the world what they could really do. Segilola presented a plan, and after some adjustments, the team prepared to implement it. Adio, though uncertain, was determined to rescue Feyisara. With the plan in place, they set out with renewed resolve. |
| Literature › Re: The Group That Everyone Laughed At Must Save The Village by Divepen1(mod): 7:32am On Oct 11, 2024 |
Chapter 12 Realizing the potential of this newfound coordination, Suberu decided to test it further. He called Ojo to the center and had him fight Irede while Adio drummed. The results were even more impressive. Each beat of Adio’s drum seemed to empower Irede, making her fighting movements even more effective. As Irede continued to demonstrate her improved abilities, the group’s expressions shifted from skepticism to realization. They understood that the synergy between Adio’s drumming and Irede’s fighting could be a significant advantage. “What’s happening?” Adio asked, bewildered by the sudden change. Segilola explained that whenever Adio played, Irede’s fighting skills improved, and the combination of their talents could be their secret weapon. Suberu, seeing the potential, proposed informing Balogun of this breakthrough. However, Segilola suggested they needed more training to ensure they were fully prepared before revealing their progress. Despite initial hesitation, the group agreed to continue their rigorous training, determined to perfect their newfound skills. Adio, however, was more focused on showcasing his abilities during Feyisara’s introduction. He wanted to impress her and others by revealing the extent of his progress. But Segilola, ever the strategist, advised him against it. She believed it was too soon and insisted they keep their true strength hidden until the right moment. |
| Literature › Re: The Group That Everyone Laughed At Must Save The Village by Divepen1(mod): 7:30am On Oct 11, 2024 |
Chapter 11 Segilola revealed that she was the one that told the other members. Afterwards, Segilola vented her frustration about the preparations for Feyisara’s introduction. She explained how her father was trying to enlist help from the Chief of Kukoro and the Queen, but the Queen had refused to risk her troops for a matter that the local warriors should handle. Suberu, clearly exasperated by the group's lack of progress, decided it was time for a new approach. “Adio, play something,” Suberu demanded, hoping to distract from the ongoing frustrations. Adio reluctantly picked up his instrument, but his performance was lackluster, drawing horrible looks from both Suberu and the others. As he played, Suberu’s frustration boiled over. “Stop! It’s just noise!” Suberu yelled. “Irede, get ready. Let’s see if this noise can be useful.” Irede rolled her eyes but took her position, preparing for a practice session. Adio, feeling disheartened, tried to play more purposefully, hoping to contribute something valuable. As he began, something unexpected happened: Irede’s strikes started to synchronize with his drumming. Her movements became sharper and more precise, almost as if they were being guided by the rhythm of his drums. Suberu and the others watched in astonishment as Irede’s skill visibly improved. Encouraged by this development, Suberu instructed Olu and Yomi to spar with Irede. To their surprise, Irede outpaced them effortlessly, her speed and accuracy enhanced by Adio’s drumming. |
| Literature › Re: The Group That Everyone Laughed At Must Save The Village by Divepen1(mod): 7:30am On Oct 11, 2024 |
Chapter 10 Despite her reluctance, Segilola continued to train with the group. Their efforts were met with consistent criticism from Balogun, but they persisted. Irede sought additional training from Ajanaku, who introduced her to Owoaje for a new style of training called "dance like a fighter." This unconventional approach proved effective, helping Irede and the group build confidence and skill. As they trained together, the group began to bond and support one another. They laughed, raced, and celebrated their small victories, gradually improving their performance. Irede and Adio, in particular, found solace and motivation in their shared struggle. One morning, Irede and Adio secretly met to practice, each determined to excel in their respective areas. To their surprise, Suberu and the others, having noticed their dedication, joined them for practice. The group's unity grew stronger, and their training became more focused and effective. |
| Literature › Re: The Group That Everyone Laughed At Must Save The Village by Divepen1(mod): 7:29am On Oct 11, 2024 |
Chapter 9 Balogun's consistent training sessions for the group led to some progress, though the Oto band struggled. Segilola, despite her skill, remained disengaged due to her resentment toward her father. Her refusal to participate in group activities and her harsh criticisms of her teammates only deepened the divide. In a heated confrontation, Suberu challenged Segilola's attitude, emphasizing the importance of effort and resilience. Segilola’s outburst revealed her frustration with her father’s expectations and her belief that her teammates were inadequate. Suberu and the others rallied to motivate her, stressing that perseverance was crucial. The group sought advice from Baba Oje, who provided them with a confidence-boosting medicine and suggested that they find their own answers. Irede, newly empowered, challenged Suberu to a sparring match but was easily defeated, highlighting the gaps in her training. Feeling demoralized, Adio turned to his music, hoping to impress Feyisara. However, his performance was dismissed as amusing rather than impressive, leading to further humiliation. Feyisara invited him to be a clown at her wedding introduction, which left Adio feeling deeply hurt. |
| Literature › Re: The Group That Everyone Laughed At Must Save The Village by Divepen1(mod): 7:29am On Oct 11, 2024 |
Chapter 8 When they resumed their training, the results were disheartening. Irede, despite her skills, was defeated by a younger girl, and Adio struggled with his music, leading to his return to the army. Balogun, their trainer, announced that everyone would be grouped for further training, and Adio hoped to avoid being selected. However, he ended up in a group with Irede, Suberu, and other misfits. Balogun labeled their group "Oto," which upset Segilola, who felt she deserved better. Despite the disparaging name, Suberu remained optimistic about their potential, believing that their unique team could still achieve something significant. As the group prepared for their training, tensions ran high, but Suberu's confidence in their abilities provided a glimmer of hope. |
| Literature › Re: The Group That Everyone Laughed At Must Save The Village by Divepen1(mod): 7:29am On Oct 11, 2024 |
Chapter 7 Irede and Adio were astonished to see Suberu, who recounted that he had followed Irede the day she fled the village in tears. After losing track of her, he encountered Prince Adedimeji of Ilu-Oro and his servant, who were in disguise. The prince had wanted to experience life in various villages anonymously, and Suberu had taken him on a tour. Though Suberu had initially avoided Imoye, he now offered to help Irede and Adio by providing a confidence charm, though it would come at a cost. Adio, despite his apprehensions, agreed to cover the fee. Suberu assured them that the charm, which he had soaked in mysterious water, would significantly boost their confidence. He instructed them to repeat a confidence mantra and wash their heads with the charm water. Irede and Adio followed his instructions, eager for the promised enhancement. |
| Literature › Re: The Group That Everyone Laughed At Must Save The Village by Divepen1(mod): 7:26am On Oct 11, 2024 |
Chapter 6 Irede, realizing Suberu was following her, tricked him into thinking she was heading to Kukoro while she actually went to Eti Osumare. There, her tutor, Majekodunmi, had low expectations of her, believing her mind wasn’t sharp enough to become a great warrior. Majekodunmi urged her to keep trying despite her recent failures in battle. Returning home after two days, Irede found her village had suffered only minor damage from the Ogaras' attack, but she was still shaken. She spotted Adio sneaking up a path and approached him, discovering he was watching three people: Feyisara, Chief Ibikunle’s daughter; Segilola, Balogun’s daughter; and a guard. Curious, Irede asked Adio whom he liked, causing him to nervously reveal he admired Feyisara. Irede laughed, revealing that Feyisara liked Ajanaku, a fact she knew from her own interactions. She threatened to tell Ajanaku about Adio's feelings unless he helped her join the fighters. Adio was reluctant but agreed to help, learning from Irede that both boys and girls would now be trained. She wanted Adio’s help to avoid being the center of attention herself. Despite his initial resistance, Adio reluctantly agreed to assist her, only to be interrupted by Suberu, who confronted them about their plans. |
| Literature › Re: The Group That Everyone Laughed At Must Save The Village by Divepen1(mod): 7:25am On Oct 11, 2024 |
Chapter 5 Meanwhile, Suberu had fixed a meeting between Irede and Balogun. So, Irede was waiting for her meeting with Balogun, who had told Suberu he would see her when the moon was high. Despite the moon's beauty, Irede was focused on improving her skills and understanding what had helped her during the fight earlier. Suberu and his companions arrived, and Irede was shocked when Balogun questioned how she had managed to beat Suberu and his boys. She explained that she had been training and they had attacked her. Balogun, disinterested in her explanation, offered to have his daughter train her in secret but refused to allow her to join the army. He asked for a demonstration but Irede couldn’t beat any of the boys. Suberu, angered by the situation, insulted Irede, causing her to feel disheartened and disgraced. She ran away from the village, seeking a place where her skills could be recognized and valued. Adio, still in the forest, witnessed the chaos as Irede hurried through, followed by Suberu calling her name. He also saw the village being engulfed in flames and chaos as the Ogaras launched their attack. Baba Oje, who had been watching over Adio, advised him to stay hidden rather than risk his life in the conflict. Baba Oje emphasized that Adio’s skill in music would become crucial in the aftermath of the war, urging him to focus on mastering his craft. As the village grappled with the attack, Chief Ibikunle, having been advised by Baba Oje, realized the need for all children to be trained for battle, not just boys. He ordered that from the next day, all children, except the elderly, would be prepared to defend the village. Adio, taking Baba Oje’s advice to heart, decided to concentrate on perfecting his music, understanding that his talent would be needed in the future, even if he could not join the battle now. |
| Literature › Re: The Group That Everyone Laughed At Must Save The Village by Divepen1(mod): 7:16am On Oct 11, 2024 |
Chapter 4 Adio caressed his flute, eager to play the perfect tune he had been practicing for days. He waited for the warriors to start their training, sure that this time he would get it right. As the training began, Adio couldn’t help but think of Feyisara, the Chief’s daughter, whose hidden love for him showed in her eyes, even though she favored Ajanaku. The head warrior’s shout snapped him back to focus, and as he prepared to play, he noticed Irede on the other side of the mountain, clutching her machete and watching the soldiers. Determined to improve, Adio blew into his flute, while Irede, frustrated with her training, began mimicking the soldiers’ movements, surprising herself with how fluidly she moved. Suddenly, Suberu and his companions (Yomi and Olu) appeared, intending to capture her for his boss to earn respect. Irede, unimpressed, warned him to stay back. Suberu promised her to give her a share of any reward he got for bringing her but she refused him. He came forward to scare her but she easily fended them off with her machete, stunning them with her newfound skill. Suberu, realizing her talent, stopped the fight and rushed alongside his companions to inform Balogun, leaving Irede standing victorious. Adio, deeply engrossed in perfecting his flute tune, was tempted to watch the exciting fight between Irede and Suberu’s group. Despite his desire to observe, he knew he had to finish his performance. He was determined to refine his tune, which he felt was still mediocre, with some notes off. Adio found the fight entertaining, as Irede fought with impressive skill, reminiscent of renowned warriors like Ajanaku, Ajedola, and Majekodunmi, whose stories were well-known in Imoye. Imoye was a place where tales of war were passed down rather than folklore, and every boy and man grew up with a weapon at their side, while women focused on other tasks like farming and cooking. As Adio played, he heard a strange whistling sound. Initially dismissing it as a random noise, he soon realized it was a known whistle, signaling a message. The whistle was from Ojo, indicating that Adio’s father and Suberu’s father were approaching. Adio hurriedly gathered his flute and drums and moved towards the only path away from the mountain. He encountered his father and Baba Suberu, who were determined to bring him back home. They struggled but eventually managed to overpower Adio and take him back. Locked in his house, Adio was frustrated by the delay in understanding the situation. That night, he was surprised to hear Ojowas at the door, expressing regret for leading the others to him. They quickly escaped the house together. |
| Literature › Re: The Group That Everyone Laughed At Must Save The Village by Divepen1(mod): 7:16am On Oct 11, 2024 |
Chapter 3 Adio couldn't stop thinking about the tune that had filled his mind as he and Ojo traveled through the forest, even two days after escaping Irede at Kukoro. It was the best tune he'd ever thought of, and now, even as he finished eating the pounded yam his mother made, he worried that washing his hands might wash away the melody. With a mumble, "A man dies once," he reluctantly trudged off to clean his hands. Upon returning, he uncovered a bamboo flute hidden beneath his mat. Excited, he brought it to his lips, but after several attempts, one note kept going wrong. Frustrated, he muttered, "I need freedom! Space!" Deciding to go to the mountains by Olude Stream that branched from the Owuaye river , far from the army training ground he despised, he quickly prepared to leave. Sneaking out, Adio thought he was in the clear until his mother appeared, singing loudly and blocking his path. "Adio!" she cried, and soon, his father emerged, shouting for Ige to summon the Balogun’s men. After a heated back-and-forth, Adio stormed back to his room but soon escaped through the roof, heading toward the mountain. Meanwhile, Irede, disguising herself as a man, frowned at her reflection in the stream. Since becoming the messenger for both Feyisara and Ajanaku, she had mixed feelings about the plan. While it brought her closer to Feyisara, it kept her from bonding with Ajanaku as she had hoped. Despite training with him, she struggled, prompting Ajanaku to mock her. "You're the worst person I've seen hold a sword," he growled. She pleaded for more chances, but Ajanaku's patience wore thin. Determined to improve, Irede decided to sneak into the warriors' training ground. As she crouched to pass through a door, a guard spotted her. "Who are you?" he demanded, tightening his grip on his cutlass. Before she could respond, Suberu Oje recognized her and ridiculed her desire to fight. Mocked and humiliated, Irede defiantly stood her ground, but when the men laughed and dismissed her, she ran. Suberu and his friends gave chase, but Irede, driven by her determination, raced towards the mountain, seeking a way to prove herself. |
| Literature › Re: The Group That Everyone Laughed At Must Save The Village by Divepen1(mod): 7:15am On Oct 11, 2024 |
Chapter 2 Months later, Adio found himself in the midst of a festival, but instead of enjoying it, he was filled with frustration. He watched the dancers closely, then turned his attention to the musicians. "Terrible," he muttered to himself. The music was flat, lacking the energy and skill he believed it needed. He couldn’t understand how everyone else seemed to love it, shaking with joy. But to him, it was far from the music he had learned to appreciate. Even at 17, Adio had absorbed the melodies of musicians from across the seven lands, able to recognize the mastery—or lack thereof—of each player. Beside him, Ojo, his closest friend, stood equally unimpressed. The two had earned the nickname "Birds of a Feather" because they often skipped the military training expected of boys in their village. Adio, though he had the skill and passion, wasn’t allowed to play in public. Only men who had hunted dangerous beasts or fought in battles could earn that privilege. As Adio wandered the festival, he was nearly knocked over by a young woman. “Move aside, young man,” she said sharply. He quickly adjusted his hat to hide his face—Queen Ademiposi’s soldiers were patrolling to prevent any incursions from the Ogaras, and Adio didn't want to draw attention. The woman glared at him, and suddenly, recognition hit. "Irede!" he whispered, turning away quickly. Ojo saw her too and warned, "Don’t let her see you." Irede was no ordinary girl. While most women in Imoye farmed and cooked, she refused to conform, demanding the same warrior training given to the men. Her loud and rebellious nature made her stand out, but Adio and Ojo knew better than to get tangled with her. As the festival began to wind down and the crowd dispersed, Adio saw his chance. He had been eyeing the musicians’ instruments, now unattended as the players stumbled off, drunk from the community’s celebratory wine. Slipping into their practice arena, Adio hurried to the array of instruments. He carefully picked one up, convinced that no one would notice if it went missing for a while. Before he could make his escape, Irede appeared out of nowhere, startling him into dropping the instrument. "You!" she exclaimed, blocking his path. Adio, caught off guard, tried to play innocent, but Ojo arrived at the worst moment. "Adio!" Ojo called out, stopping short when he saw Irede standing there. She eyed them both suspiciously. "Where have you been?" she demanded. "You're supposed to be in training. Ojo, tell me." After a tense silence, Ojo finally admitted, "We came to learn how Kukoro protects itself—how they defend their people." Irede shook her head. "Kukoro doesn’t worry about defense like we do. They don’t face the same threats from the Ogaras." Ojo opened his mouth to argue, but Irede cut him off with a sudden shout: "Thief! Thief!" Adio’s heart raced as he saw the glint of mischief in her eyes. Realizing the danger, both boys sprinted away before anyone could catch them. Behind them, Irede remained calm, secretly hoping they wouldn’t be caught. Not long after, two men arrived, drawn by her cries. "Where is the thief?" one demanded, still holding his drumsticks. Irede pointed them in the wrong direction, sending them off on a wild chase toward the Imoye river. As soon as they were out of sight, Irede slipped through the musicians’ compound, planning her next move. Her eyes scanned the area until they fell on Ajanaku, the finest horseman in the land, effortlessly riding his horse. He was a legend in Kukoro, undefeated in both battle and training. Irede had long admired him from afar, curious about his methods and strength. Before she could approach him, a voice interrupted her thoughts. "One push and you're dead," it said. Irede gasped and turned to find Ajanaku himself standing before her, his large, muscular frame glistening with sweat from his ride. Irede barely had time to register the presence behind her before a voice interrupted her thoughts, startling her. She spun around and found herself face-to-face with Ajanaku. His dark, muscular form loomed large as he towered over her, his breath still heavy from the ride. Without a word, he raised his machete, the sharp edge grazing her neck ever so slightly. It was a silent warning. Caught off guard, Irede struggled to steady her voice, her heart racing. Irede barely had time to register the presence behind her before a voice interrupted her thoughts, startling her. She spun around and found herself face-to-face with Ajanaku. His dark, muscular form loomed large as he towered over her, his breath still heavy from the ride. Without a word, he raised his machete, the sharp edge grazing her neck ever so slightly. It was a silent warning. Caught off guard, Irede struggled to steady her voice, her heart racing. "How did you…?" she began, astonished at his speed. But her words faded as the reality of the situation sunk in. Ajanaku’s eyes remained cold and unwavering. “I’m not Ajanaku for nothing,” he said, his voice low and firm. His gaze pierced through her, demanding an explanation. “Who sent you?” Irede’s pulse quickened, but she stood her ground, refusing to be intimidated. “No one sent me,” she answered, her voice gaining strength. “I do what I want, and right now, I want to learn from the best.” For a long moment, Ajanaku studied her, his expression unreadable. His skepticism was clear, though, as his eyes narrowed. “What do you want?” he asked, his tone cautious, yet laced with curiosity. “I want you to teach me,” Irede said, not missing a beat. Her voice was clear now, firm with determination. “I want to be as skilled as you.” Ajanaku's gaze swept over her, his disbelief evident. A smirk tugged at the corner of his lips, almost mocking. “You’re a girl,” he said bluntly, his voice carrying a hint of amusement. “Even the boys can’t keep up with my training, and you think you can?” “I can,” Irede shot back, her confidence unshaken. His eyes gleamed with a mixture of intrigue and disbelief. He paused, seemingly weighing her words, before he spoke again. “Alright,” he said slowly, as if testing her resolve. “But first, you’ll have to do something for me.” A flicker of hope sparked in Irede’s chest. She leaned forward slightly, eager to know more. “What is it?” she asked, determined to prove herself. “You’ll deliver a message to Feyisara,” Ajanaku said, his voice measured. “The chief’s daughter.” Irede blinked in surprise. Feyisara? The chief’s daughter was known for her beauty and status, someone far removed from Irede’s world. She hadn’t expected this. “The chief’s daughter?” she repeated, her brow furrowing. “That Feyisara?” Ajanaku’s expression remained impassive as he nodded. “Yes,” he confirmed. “Be my go-between, and I’ll teach you everything you want to know.” Silence hung between them for a moment. Irede’s mind raced, weighing the risks and rewards. Finally, she nodded. “Deal,” she agreed. Ajanaku’s lips curled into a satisfied smile. “Good,” he said, his voice filled with finality. “Tell her to meet me by the full moon—at our place.” Before Irede could respond, Ajanaku spurred his horse into action, galloping away in a cloud of dust, leaving her standing there, her heart pounding with anticipation. She had her mission now, and with it, the opportunity she had been waiting for. |
| Literature › The Group That Everyone Laughed At Must Save The Village by Divepen1(mod): 7:14am On Oct 11, 2024 |
If you've read my work "Oto Band: The Misfit", here is the condensed version for YouTube. Enjoy!!! Chapter 1 Our story begins in Fortune City, then known as Ilu-Oro, under the rule of Queen Ademiposi Ademola. In the border village of Imoye, the people were terrorized by a mysterious band of thieves called the Ogara, whose faces were hidden and whose clothes were always aflame, though they never burned. No one knew where they came from, but their raids were well-known. One sunny day, Chief Ibikunle sought guidance from Baba Oje, the village sage. Baba Oje had long been revered for his prophetic visions, even by the queen herself. Chief Ibikunle, impatient, didn’t wait to hear Baba Oje’s full advice and stormed out after hearing what he thought was enough. "There's more," Baba Oje called after him, urging the need for sacrifices and prayers, but Ibikunle dismissed it as an attempt to exploit him. Ignoring the warnings, Chief Ibikunle gathered the villagers and declared that every boy in Imoye would be trained in warfare. He proclaimed that two of these boys would be the key to defeating their enemies and representing the village in the seven lands. |
| Literature › Re: She Was Buried Alive But Came Back For Revenge by Divepen1(mod): 6:26pm On Sep 04, 2024 |
Chapter 4: The Final Reckoning The village of Ayetoro was on the edge of despair. The once vibrant community had been reduced to a shadow of its former self, haunted by the restless spirit of Kokumo. Fear and suspicion hung heavy in the air, and the villagers could no longer distinguish between reality and the supernatural. The time had come for a final reckoning, a confrontation that would determine the fate of both the living and the dead. Kokumo’s spirit, now a powerful force driven by the anguish of her unjust death, focused her wrath on Olumide. His isolation from the village had not spared him from her vengeance; rather, it had intensified it. He was tormented by relentless visions of Kokumo, her ghostly form appearing with increasing frequency. Her presence became an ever-looming shadow in his life, reflecting the torment he had inflicted upon her. One night, as the village lay in a state of uneasy sleep, Kokumo’s spectral form appeared at Olumide’s doorstep. The wind howled as the storm that had once marked her resurrection returned, swirling around her in a malevolent dance. Olumide, driven to the brink of madness by his guilt, could scarcely comprehend the reality of Kokumo’s presence. His eyes, once sharp and commanding, were now clouded with terror and despair. In a dramatic confrontation, Kokumo stood before Olumide, her form shimmering with a ghostly light. She spoke in a voice that was both mournful and commanding, recounting the betrayal she had suffered and the injustices that had led to her death. Olumide, though paralyzed with fear, listened as Kokumo’s words cut through his frailty, revealing the depths of his own betrayal. Kokumo’s accusations were not merely words but a manifestation of her sorrow and anger. The very earth around Olumide seemed to respond to her presence, the ground trembling and the walls of his home shaking. The wind carried with it the whispers of Kokumo’s grief, filling the air with an oppressive sense of doom. Olumide, overwhelmed by the weight of his guilt and the reality of Kokumo’s wrath, fell to his knees, pleading for forgiveness. The village elders, having heard of Olumide’s desperate pleas, gathered in a last-ditch effort to restore peace. They performed ancient rituals, invoking the gods and ancestors to intercede on behalf of the village. The air was thick with incense and the murmur of prayers as they attempted to appease Kokumo’s spirit. Yet, despite their efforts, the atmosphere remained charged with tension, and the villagers could sense that the resolution was still beyond reach. As the confrontation between Kokumo and Olumide reached its climax, the final act of vengeance unfolded. Kokumo, her rage now focused solely on Olumide, delivered the ultimate justice she had sought. In a final, dramatic act, Olumide’s life was claimed by the same forces that had tormented him. His death was both a release and a punishment, a culmination of the guilt and fear that had consumed him. With Olumide’s demise, a profound silence fell over Ayetoro. The storm that had raged throughout the night subsided, and the wind carried away the last remnants of Kokumo’s anguished spirit. The village, though scarred by the events, began to experience a tentative peace. The crops started to show signs of recovery, and the river, once dry, flowed again with renewed vigor. The livestock began to regain their health, signaling the beginning of a slow and hopeful recovery. The village elders, deeply remorseful for their role in Kokumo’s death and the subsequent chaos, called for a gathering to honor her memory. They performed a grand ritual to appease her spirit and seek forgiveness from the gods. The ceremony was a solemn acknowledgment of their failure and an attempt to restore balance to their community. As Kokumo’s spirit finally found peace, the village of Ayetoro was left to reflect on the lessons learned from the haunting. The tale of Kokumo’s betrayal, her quest for vengeance, and the ultimate reckoning served as a powerful reminder of the consequences of injustice and the need for truth and compassion. The village, forever changed by the events, moved forward with a renewed sense of unity and respect for the delicate balance of their traditions. In the end, Kokumo’s story became a legend in Ayetoro—a haunting yet poignant reminder of the price of betrayal and the enduring power of justice. |
| Literature › Re: She Was Buried Alive But Came Back For Revenge by Divepen1(mod): 6:26pm On Sep 04, 2024 |
Chapter 3: The Haunting The days turned into a blur of fear and suspicion in Ayetoro. The once vibrant village was now shrouded in an atmosphere of dread. The unsettling phenomena continued to plague the community, each day bringing a new wave of terror. The villagers, already on edge, found their fears amplified by the inexplicable occurrences. Whispers of Kokumo’s vengeful spirit spread like wildfire, and even the bravest among them could not escape the pervasive sense of impending doom. The night was no longer a sanctuary but a time of heightened anxiety, as shadows seemed to move with a life of their own. Olumide, once a figure of authority and respect, was now a man haunted by his own conscience. His nights were filled with relentless nightmares where Kokumo’s ghostly visage appeared, her eyes burning with a fiery rage. These visions left him drenched in sweat, his heart pounding with fear. During the day, the memories of his actions haunted him with equal intensity, rendering him a mere shell of his former self. His new wife, Adebimpe, was equally affected. She had married Olumide under the pretense of a new beginning, but instead, she found herself ensnared in a nightmare. Adebimpe began to experience terrifying encounters, seeing ghostly figures in the corners of her vision and hearing whispers that made her question her sanity. One night, as she lay in bed, she felt an icy hand graze her arm. She leapt from her bed, only to find the room empty, with nothing but a chilling breeze lingering in the air. The priestess, who had falsely accused Kokumo, was in a state of constant terror. Her once-pristine shrine was now in shambles, and she was frequently tormented by apparitions of Kokumo. She could no longer perform her rituals or offer her prayers in peace, her mind unraveling under the strain of her own fear. Her pleas to the gods for protection seemed to fall on deaf ears, leaving her vulnerable to the vengeful spirit. One by one, those who had played a role in Kokumo’s death met with tragic ends. The village elder who had sanctioned Kokumo’s burial was found dead in his home, his face frozen in a mask of terror. The cause of his death was unexplained, but the marks on his body and the fear etched into his features told a story of a man who had faced an unspeakable horror. The village’s crops, once the pride of Ayetoro, continued to wither. The river, which had always been a source of life and sustenance, ran dry. The livestock, once healthy and strong, succumbed to mysterious illnesses. The village’s once-thriving economy was in shambles, and its people were left grappling with the tangible and intangible effects of Kokumo’s wrath. As the haunting escalated, the village’s elders convened in desperation. They knew that the disturbances were not merely coincidences but were directly linked to Kokumo’s unjust death. Yet their efforts to address the situation only seemed to make matters worse. They performed rituals and sacrifices, hoping to appease Kokumo’s spirit, but each attempt only intensified the supernatural phenomena. Olumide’s fear reached a breaking point. He could no longer distinguish between reality and the illusions created by his guilt and Kokumo’s wrath. He became increasingly paranoid, believing that every shadow and sound was a manifestation of Kokumo’s spirit seeking him out. His descent into madness was marked by erratic behavior and a growing isolation from the community. In a desperate bid for redemption, Olumide confessed his role in Kokumo’s death to the village, revealing the truth behind the false accusations and his betrayal. His confession came amidst a frenzy of supernatural occurrences, with the village’s people listening in stunned silence. The revelation did little to quell the fear; instead, it seemed to confirm their worst fears—that Kokumo’s spirit was indeed active and vengeful. The village was now on the brink of collapse, with its people caught between their own guilt and the relentless specter of Kokumo’s rage. The haunting had reached its climax, and the community was left to confront the consequences of their actions and the wrath of a woman wronged. |
| Literature › Re: She Was Buried Alive But Came Back For Revenge by Divepen1(mod): 6:25pm On Sep 04, 2024 |
Chapter 2: The Awakening The days following Kokumo's burial were marked by an unsettling calm in Ayetoro. The villagers went about their routines, trying to shake off the heavy cloud of guilt that lingered in the air. But as the sun dipped below the horizon each evening, an eerie stillness settled over the village, and whispers of unease grew louder. On the fourth night after Kokumo's burial, a storm rolled in, its arrival heralded by dark clouds and the distant rumble of thunder. Rain poured down in torrents, drumming relentlessly against the thatched roofs of Ayetoro. Amid the storm's fury, the earth trembled slightly, and a chilling wind swept through the village, causing the leaves to rustle in a mournful song. As lightning illuminated the sky, a strange and unsettling sight occurred at the edge of the village. The freshly turned soil of Kokumo's grave began to shift, the earth disturbed as if it were alive. With a final, violent convulsion, the ground gave way, and Kokumo emerged from her grave, soaked and disheveled but with an aura of haunting determination. Kokumo's eyes, once filled with warmth and kindness, now glowed with an otherworldly intensity. Her body, though covered in dirt and rain, seemed to radiate an ethereal light, a stark contrast to the darkness of her surroundings. The pain and betrayal she had endured had transformed her, and her spirit was now charged with a powerful need for retribution. As Kokumo rose from the earth, the storm seemed to recognize her awakening. The wind howled and the rain intensified, as if the elements themselves were bearing witness to her return. She stood amidst the chaos, a spectral figure of vengeance, her presence casting an ominous shadow over Ayetoro. The first signs of her revenge began that night. In the homes of those who had wronged her, the villagers were haunted by vivid, terrifying dreams. They saw visions of Kokumo—her face twisted in anguish and rage—as she silently accused them of their crimes. These dreams left them in a state of dread, unable to sleep peacefully. The once calm village was now a place of restless nights and fearful murmurs. The priestess, who had orchestrated the accusations against Kokumo, was the first to feel the full weight of the spirit’s wrath. That night, she woke to find her shrine in disarray, sacred objects scattered and her ceremonial robes torn. More alarmingly, she discovered unexplained, deep scratches on her arms and legs, as if they had been made by invisible claws. The priestess, normally composed and confident, was now plagued by a profound sense of fear and foreboding, unable to explain the terror that had befallen her. As the days passed, the village's unease grew. Crops that had once flourished began to wither, and livestock fell ill without explanation. The village’s once lively atmosphere was now overshadowed by a palpable sense of dread. The elders, desperate to understand the calamities befalling them, convened to discuss the unusual and frightening occurrences. Meanwhile, Kokumo’s spirit roamed the village at night, a silent and vengeful presence. Her spectral figure was often glimpsed at the edge of vision—an apparition that vanished when directly looked at but left a lingering chill in the air. Her focus was on those who had wronged her, each haunting serving as a reminder of their betrayal. In the midst of this turmoil, Olumide, now plagued by guilt and paranoia, began to unravel. He would hear whispers in the wind, see shadows in the corners of his vision, and feel a chilling presence that made him doubt his sanity. The once powerful man was now a mere shadow of his former self, his conscience burdened by the weight of his betrayal. As Kokumo’s spirit continued to exact her haunting revenge, the village of Ayetoro was on the brink of collapse. The once harmonious community was now a place of fear and suspicion, and the nightmare that had begun with a grave injustice was only just beginning to unfold. |
| Literature › She Was Buried Alive But Came Back For Revenge by Divepen1(mod): 6:24pm On Sep 04, 2024*. Modified: 8:31am On Nov 06, 2024 |
Chapter 1: The Innocent Victim In the heart of the lush Yoruba village of Ayetoro, life flowed with the rhythm of tradition and harmony. The villagers lived in close-knit communities, bound by ancient customs and shared reverence for the gods of their ancestors. The village, nestled between verdant hills and a winding river, was a place where every festival and ritual was performed with meticulous care, and the night skies were a tapestry of stars witnessing their everyday lives. Among them was Kokumo, a woman whose beauty and grace made her a beloved figure in Ayetoro. Her eyes sparkled with kindness, and her smile was a beacon of warmth. Kokumo was married to Olumide, a man of wealth and influence, known for his impressive stature and commanding presence. Though outwardly they appeared to have a perfect union, beneath the surface, their relationship was marred by discord and hidden malice. Kokumo’s inability to conceive a child had become a source of great sorrow for her. In a village where lineage and progeny were revered, this perceived failure made her the subject of whispers and envy. The other women, envious of her grace and kindness, whispered behind closed doors, their jealousy festering into ill will. One fateful evening, the tranquility of Ayetoro was shattered by a sudden illness that struck Olumide. The once robust man became bedridden, wracked with fever and despair. As days turned into nights, the village was abuzz with speculation and fear. The village elders, revered for their wisdom and guidance, convened in secret to address the calamity that had befallen Olumide. Guided by a priestess known for her cunning and manipulative ways, the elders were swayed into believing that Kokumo was the source of Olumide’s suffering. The priestess, driven by her own hidden agendas, accused Kokumo of witchcraft, claiming that she had cursed her husband out of jealousy. The allegations were unfounded, but in a community governed by fear and superstition, accusations held more power than truth. Despite Kokumo’s desperate pleas for justice and her protestations of innocence, the tide of public opinion turned against her. The once-friendly faces of her neighbors now looked upon her with suspicion and scorn. Olumide, influenced by his own fears and desires for a fresh start with another woman, abandoned Kokumo. His betrayal was cold and calculated, driven by greed and a longing for freedom from what he perceived as a curse. In the dead of night, the villagers, armed with shovels and lanterns, dug a shallow grave at the edge of the village, their faces etched with a mixture of fear and determination. The ritual was a grim spectacle, conducted with a mixture of dread and duty. Kokumo was led to the grave, her hands bound and her eyes filled with tears of betrayal. As the earth was heaped upon her, her silent screams were swallowed by the darkness, a final cry for justice that went unheard. The villagers returned to their homes, their hearts heavy with the weight of their actions. The stars above seemed to dim as if mourning the injustice done to Kokumo. As the night settled over Ayetoro, the earth remained restless, holding within it the spirit of a woman wronged. The silence that followed was a prelude to the storm that was about to unfold—a storm that would shake the very foundations of the village and bring forth a reckoning from the grave. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q6L4QONs-4s?si=bifymFdz2MfVETxD |
| Literature › Re: The Cursed Child That No One Dared To Touch by Divepen1(mod): 6:13pm On Sep 04, 2024 |
Chapter 4: The Final Confrontation The heart of the forest was a realm of shadows and whispers, where the air was thick with an otherworldly chill. Abeni ventured deeper, guided by the faint light of the vial's enchantment and her own resolve. Each step felt like a battle against an unseen force, the forest seeming to shift and change as if testing her resolve. As night fell, the forest grew darker and more oppressive. The trees loomed like ancient sentinels, their twisted branches forming a canopy that blocked out most of the moonlight. Strange noises echoed through the trees—low growls, distant howls, and the occasional unsettling silence that felt almost like a presence watching her. Abeni came upon a large, crumbling stone structure overgrown with vines and moss. The ancient temple was partially hidden by the forest, its once-grand entrance now a dark, yawning void. This was the place the guardian had spoken of—the hidden source of great magic. Taking a deep breath, Abeni stepped inside, her footsteps echoing off the cold stone walls. Inside the temple, the air was thick with dust and an eerie silence. The walls were adorned with faded murals depicting scenes of battles and rituals, their meanings lost to time. At the center of the temple lay an ancient altar, its surface covered in strange symbols and offerings long decayed. Abeni approached the altar cautiously, feeling a strange pull toward it. As she neared, she felt a sudden coldness and heard a soft, mournful voice. The spirit of the ancient being, bound to the curse, materialized before her. It was a ghostly figure, its eyes filled with a blend of sorrow and rage. The spirit spoke of its tragic past—a mortal who had once loved deeply but was betrayed and cursed to wander the forest in torment. The curse was meant to be a way of keeping its soul bound to the earth, never finding peace. Abeni's bloodline had unknowingly become a vessel for the spirit’s torment, and the serpent mark on her arm was a symbol of the curse’s power. Abeni, though filled with fear, confronted the spirit. “I want to break the curse,” she said, her voice steady despite the trembling in her hands. “Tell me how.” The spirit explained that breaking the curse required a sacrifice—a choice that would either release the spirit from its torment or bind it to a new victim. The ancient power hidden in the temple could help, but it demanded a great price. To lift the curse, Abeni would need to confront the darkness within herself and make a choice that would determine her fate and that of the spirit. The air grew colder, and the spirit’s form flickered. Abeni realized that the choice before her was not just about her own survival but about the fate of countless others who had been touched by the curse. She could use the ancient power to release the spirit, but in doing so, she risked her own life and freedom. Alternatively, she could attempt to harness the power to bind the spirit to herself, taking on the curse to protect others from its wrath. With a heavy heart, Abeni decided to confront the darkness within herself. She reached for the ancient power, a glowing orb that lay at the center of the altar. As she touched it, the power surged through her, filling her with both pain and strength. She felt the weight of the curse and the anguish of the spirit blending into one. The temple walls trembled, and a powerful force surged through the room. Abeni fought to maintain her grip on the orb, channeling the ancient power to break the curse. She felt the spirit’s presence waver, its mournful cries growing fainter as the curse began to unravel. In a final burst of energy, Abeni released the spirit’s tormented soul from its bonds. The orb's light grew blinding, and the spirit’s form dissolved into a peaceful, golden light that drifted upward. The curse was broken, and the forest seemed to breathe a sigh of relief. Exhausted but triumphant, Abeni emerged from the temple as dawn approached. The forest, once dark and foreboding, now seemed lighter and more welcoming. The enchantment on the vial had dimmed, and the oppressive feeling that had hung over her was gone. Abeni made her way back to the village, her heart heavy with the knowledge of what she had sacrificed. As she approached the village’s edge, she saw the villagers waiting, their faces a mix of curiosity and apprehension. The curse was no more, and the village was free from its shadow. Though the villagers welcomed her back with relief and gratitude, Abeni knew that her journey had changed her forever. She had faced the darkest parts of herself and emerged victorious, but she also knew she could never fully return to the life she had known. With a sense of both closure and new beginnings, Abeni chose to leave the village, seeking a place where she could find peace and purpose beyond the shadow of the curse. The forest, once a place of terror, had become a symbol of her strength and resilience. As she walked away, she felt a renewed sense of hope and freedom, ready to embrace the future that awaited her. |
| Literature › Re: The Cursed Child That No One Dared To Touch by Divepen1(mod): 6:11pm On Sep 04, 2024 |
Chapter 3: The Forest of Shadows The forest was unlike anything Abeni had ever imagined. The trees stood tall and menacing, their gnarled branches intertwining to form a nearly impenetrable canopy. The moonlight barely pierced through the dense foliage, casting strange shadows that seemed to move and shift with a life of their own. Every sound—a snap of a twig, a distant rustle—seemed amplified in the suffocating silence. Abeni walked cautiously, each step taken with a mix of trepidation and resolve. The charm her mother had given her hung around her neck, a small glimmer of hope in the dark, and she clutched it tightly. The forest seemed to close in around her, its oppressive darkness making it difficult to see more than a few feet ahead. As night gave way to dawn, Abeni discovered that the forest was not entirely silent. Soft whispers seemed to drift through the trees, carrying on the wind. At first, she dismissed them as figments of her imagination, but the whispers grew louder and more distinct, as if the forest itself was trying to communicate. She couldn’t understand the words, but they sounded mournful and pleading. By midday, Abeni was exhausted and hungry. The forest provided little in terms of food, and the chill of the night had left her shivering. She found a small clearing and decided to rest, hoping that some warmth and rest would give her strength. As she sat down, she noticed a strange, shimmering light deeper in the forest. It seemed almost too perfect to be natural—a soft, golden glow that beckoned her. Driven by a mix of curiosity and desperation, Abeni followed the light. It led her deeper into the forest, past twisted trees and overgrown vines. The path became increasingly difficult, but she pressed on, guided by the promise of something that might help her. Suddenly, she came upon a small, hidden grove. In its center stood a man cloaked in tattered robes. His face was obscured by shadows, but his eyes gleamed with an unsettling intensity. He held a staff adorned with strange symbols, and his presence seemed to command the very forest around them. Abeni approached cautiously, her heart racing. The man regarded her with a mixture of pity and interest. “You are the cursed child,” he said, his voice soft but carrying an undertone of ancient knowledge. “I have been waiting for you.” Fear and confusion gripped Abeni, but she forced herself to speak. “Who are you? What do you know about the curse?” The man introduced himself as an old guardian of the forest, a keeper of forgotten lore. He explained that the curse on Abeni was not a simple matter of bad luck but a powerful force tied to an ancient spirit bound to the forest. This spirit had once been a mortal who had loved deeply but was betrayed, leading to its eternal torment. The guardian told Abeni that if she wished to break the curse, she would need to seek out an ancient power hidden deep within the forest. It was said to be a source of great magic, capable of either lifting the curse or consuming her entirely. To find it, she would have to confront her deepest fears and navigate through the forest’s darkest corners. Abeni, though terrified, realized she had little choice. The forest had become her world, and the only chance she had to escape her fate was to follow this dangerous path. With newfound determination, she agreed to undertake the journey. The guardian provided Abeni with a small vial of enchanted oil, saying it would offer some protection against the spirits that roamed the forest. As she took the vial, he gave her a final piece of advice: “The forest holds many secrets, and not all of them are kind. Trust your instincts and remember that not everything is as it seems.” With that, the guardian vanished into the shadows, leaving Abeni alone once more. The forest seemed even more daunting now, but she steeled herself for the journey ahead. The ancient power she sought was still far off, hidden in the heart of the forest, and she knew she would need all her courage and strength to face what lay ahead. As the sun began to set, casting long shadows through the trees, Abeni took a deep breath and stepped forward, determined to confront the darkness that awaited her and to discover the truth behind the curse that had haunted her since birth. |
| Literature › Re: The Cursed Child That No One Dared To Touch by Divepen1(mod): 6:11pm On Sep 04, 2024 |
Chapter 2: The Haunting Events The village of Irepa had settled into a rhythm of fear and suspicion. The once vibrant community now moved with caution, their eyes constantly shifting, as if expecting the ground to open beneath them at any moment. The curse of Abeni seemed to cast a pall over every aspect of their lives. As Abeni grew, so did the misfortunes that plagued the village. Livestock continued to die under mysterious circumstances. One morning, the villagers awoke to find their prized goats lifeless, scattered across the fields. No signs of illness or struggle were visible—just empty, lifeless bodies that seemed to defy explanation. Crops, too, failed without warning. Fields that had once been lush and green were now barren, the crops withered and brown. Illnesses began to spread through the village, affecting people of all ages. No remedy seemed to work, and the village healer, who had always been able to cure common ailments, found herself powerless against these new afflictions. The villagers, their fear turning to anger, began to point fingers and cast blame. It was clear to them that the curse of Abeni was responsible for their suffering. In the midst of the growing chaos, the village seer was summoned once more. Her presence was met with a mix of fear and desperate hope. She arrived with a grim expression, her eyes clouded by visions of impending doom. The villagers gathered around her, pleading for answers. The seer’s prophecy was dark and foreboding. She warned that the curse was not merely a superstition but a real and growing threat. The village was at risk of being consumed by the darkness if nothing was done. The only solution, she claimed, was to banish the child to the forest where the curse had first taken hold. This, she said, would appease the spirit and end the suffering. The idea of banishing a child to the forest was met with mixed emotions. Some villagers felt a deep sense of dread at the thought of abandoning a helpless child in the unknown, while others were convinced it was the only way to save their community from further disaster. The debate grew heated, but fear ultimately prevailed. Adunni was heartbroken but felt trapped between her love for her daughter and the demands of the villagers. In the quiet of the night, she made the painful decision to send Abeni away. With a heavy heart, she prepared a small bundle of supplies—a bit of food, a blanket, and a charm said to protect against evil spirits. As the moonlight bathed the forest in an eerie glow, Adunni led Abeni to the edge of the woods. The forest seemed to watch them with silent, dark eyes. Adunni's tears mixed with the night’s chill as she hugged her daughter one last time. She whispered words of love and promises of protection, though she knew they would offer little comfort in the face of such overwhelming fear. The moment Adunni turned and walked away, the forest seemed to swallow her whole, leaving Abeni alone in the darkness. The silence was absolute, broken only by the occasional rustling of leaves and the distant cries of nocturnal creatures. As Abeni stood at the forest’s edge, her tiny frame dwarfed by the towering trees, she felt the weight of her curse more than ever before. With the charm clutched tightly in her hand, Abeni took her first steps into the forest, her path illuminated by the dim light of the moon. The forest was both a place of refuge and a realm of the unknown, and as she ventured deeper, she felt the oppressive weight of her curse closing in around her, mingling with the chilling embrace of the darkness. |
| Literature › The Cursed Child That No One Dared To Touch by Divepen1(mod): 6:10pm On Sep 04, 2024 |
Chapter 1: The Birth of the Curse The small village of Irepa was nestled deep in a forest where shadows danced with the wind, and legends wove themselves into the very fabric of daily life. It was a place where superstitions thrived and fear of the unknown was as common as the morning dew. Tonight, the forest held its breath as an omen of darkness approached. Adunni's labor had begun under a blood-red moon, a sign that the villagers whispered about with dread. The moon hung low in the sky, casting an unsettling light over the thatched roofs of the village. Inside a modest hut, Adunni clutched her husband's hand tightly, her face contorted with pain. The village midwife, a woman who had seen countless births, looked on with unease, her eyes darting nervously between Adunni and the window where the red moon was visible. When Abeni was finally born, the room fell silent, save for the soft cry of the newborn. Adunni looked down at her daughter, but her joy was short-lived. The baby’s arm bore a peculiar birthmark, shaped like a serpent coiled around it. The midwife’s eyes widened in terror as she recognized the mark from old tales. This was no ordinary birthmark—it was a sign of a curse. As the news of the birth spread through the village, fear took hold like a choking vine. The villagers gathered, their faces shadowed with dread, to hear the village seer’s pronouncement. The old woman, feared and respected, entered Adunni’s home. Her eyes, clouded with age and mystery, examined Abeni with a grim expression. She declared that the child was cursed, destined to bring misfortune and suffering to anyone who came near. From that moment, Abeni’s fate was sealed. The villagers, steeped in their beliefs and fears, began to avoid Adunni’s home. They whispered behind closed doors, their voices filled with a mix of pity and horror. Adunni tried to shield her daughter from their stares, but the weight of their fear was impossible to escape. As the days passed, strange things began to happen. Livestock died under mysterious circumstances, crops withered, and illnesses spread like wildfire. The villagers’ suspicions grew, and the curse of the child was blamed for every misfortune that befell them. Adunni's heart ached with the weight of her daughter's fate. She was torn between her love for Abeni and the paralyzing fear of the curse. In the privacy of her home, she held Abeni close, whispering promises of protection and love, but even she could not ignore the growing fear that seeped into every corner of her life. As the moon continued its eerie watch over the village, the curse that no one dared to touch began to cast its long shadow over their lives. Adunni's hopes for a normal life for her daughter seemed to vanish with each passing day, replaced by an ever-deepening sense of dread and isolation. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcFr68TnagE?si=8QBJd7LzDajmOBZi |
| TV/Movies › Top 20 Underrated Nigerian Movies Of All Time by Divepen1(op): 6:54am On Aug 06, 2024 |
Here’s our favourite lesson of 2024: Not all unhyped films are poor. Welcome to Afromnia and follow us as we bring you the 20 Most Underrated Nollywood Films of All Time. These underrated movies may not have achieved widespread popularity or box office success, but they are notable for their unique storytelling, artistic merit, and contributions to Nigerian cinema. Here are some examples of the most underrated Nigerian movies of all time: 1. The 2023 Nigerian drama film "Breath of Life," written and directed by BB Sasore and produced by Eku Edewor, tells the story of Timi, a young man who achieves academic excellence, speaks 16 languages, and becomes the first African clergyman in the Church of England. After marrying Bridget and having a daughter, tragedy strikes when his family falls victim to the local thug Baby Fire. This leads to a series of tragic events that turn Timi into a recluse. The film introduces Elijah, who later changes Timi's life, helping him rediscover his faith and purpose. 2. "In My Country," a 2017 Nigerian action film directed and produced by Frank Rajah Arase, centers around a teacher desperate to raise money for her daughter's life-saving surgery. She turns to a dubious man for help, and the crisis unexpectedly gains national attention. 3. "Breaded Life," a 2021 Nigerian dramedy film written and directed by Biodun Stephen, follows the adventures of an arrogant and spoiled son from a wealthy home. The story unfolds as he learns life lessons the hard way, falling in love with a bread seller (Bimbo Ademoye) and facing conflict with his disapproving mother (Tina Mba). His entanglement with the bread seller leads him into the underworld, resulting in his arrest and sparking a war with his mother. 4. "Dinner" ( 2016), directed by Jay Franklyn Jituboh, is a psychological thriller where a guy invites his childhood friend for dinner with his family. The situation takes a chaotic turn as they begin uncovering secrets about each other's relationships. 5. "Invasion 1897" (2014), directed by Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen, is a historical drama depicting the Punitive Expedition by the British against the ancient Benin Kingdom in Nigeria in 1897. The story is narrated by a young prince of Benin, arrested and brought to trial for stealing historical artifacts from a British museum, and his journey into history to defend himself. 6. "The Milkmaid" (2020), directed by Desmond Ovbiagele, is a drama film following a Fulani milkmaid who confronts religious extremism in rural Sub-Saharan Africa. Acclaimed for its poignant storytelling, powerful performances, and exploration of the human cost of extremism.. 7. "Gidi Blues" (2016), The romantic movie revolves around a playboy— Akin —from a rich family and a beautiful dedicated young lady. They met in an unpredictable place and their encounter created a windstorm experience that unravel the world of Akin 8. "Lara and the Beat" (2018), directed by Tosin Coker, is a musical drama that follows the journey of two sisters navigating the music industry while confronting family secrets. The star-studded cast, including musicians Seyi Shay, Vector, Somkele Iyamah, and others, explores the lives of the Giwa Sisters caught in the midst of a financial scandal involving their late parents' media empire. Forced out of their privileged bubble, the sisters must learn to build their own future and salvage their family's legacy through music and enterprise. 9. "The CEO" (2016), directed by Kunle Afolayan, similarly centers around five top executives dispatched on a one-week leadership retreat by a multinational telecommunications firm, aiming to appoint a new CEO. Despite outward camaraderie, each executive is secretly vying for the CEO's position. Throughout the course, they engage in covert attempts to outdo one another as they desperately seek the coveted leadership role. 10. "76" (2016), directed by Izu Ojukwu, is set six years after the civil war and follows the romantic relationship between a young officer from the Middle Belt and an O-level student from the South-eastern region. Their relationship is strained by constant military postings. The soldier is accused of involvement in the unsuccessful 1976 military coup and the assassination of General Murtala Mohammed, leading to an emotional dilemma for his heavily pregnant wife. 11. "The Lost Café" (2018), directed by Kenneth Gyang, is an intense realist depiction of the struggles faced by Nigerian immigrants, seen through the eyes of a young woman. This Nigerian-Norwegian co-production explores the challenges and hardships encountered by immigrants in a poignant and authentic manner. 12. In the 2015 dark comedy "Taxi Driver: Oko Ashewo," directed by Daniel Oriahi, a Lagos taxi driver named Adigun, a naive 31-year-old village car mechanic, experiences a series of comedic and unexpected events while trying to make a living. Invited to Lagos by Taiwo, his father's fellow taxi driver, Adigun discovers that Taiwo is dangerous and as shady as Lagos at night. 13. "Mokalik" (2019), a comedy-drama directed by Kunle Afolayan, unfolds in a mechanic workshop where 11-year-old Ponmile, from the middle-class suburbs, spends a day as a lowly apprentice to gain insights from the other side of the tracks. When his father arrives to take him home, Ponmile must decide whether to return to school or commit to the apprenticeship full time, encountering a diverse cast of characters and learning life lessons in the process. 14. "Green White Green" (2016), a coming-of-age comedy directed by Abba Makama, follows three young people from different ethnic backgrounds enduring a seemingly endless wait for university. During this hiatus, they engage in various shenanigans, exploring themes such as American and hip-hop influence, the Boko Haram issue, the desire to go abroad, and the lack of direction that sometimes leads young Nigerians astray. 15. "The Antique" (2014), directed by Darasen Richards, begins with a happy community sharing their lives, but three strange beings invade the kingdom in search of an antique with the power to protect and sustain its royalty. The kingdom's warriors are overpowered, and the invaders take away the sacred emblem, bringing a curse on the land. Decades later, the Oba's only son is ill, and an innocent girl named Uki is chosen to journey to forbidden lands to find and return the antique, accompanied by three special warriors. The quest encounters challenges from sinister immortal forces, and the return of Uki and the warriors remains uncertain. 16. "Out of Luck" (2015), directed by Niyi Akinmolayan, is a crime comedy-drama that revolves around a young man making a living running a lottery business. With a beautiful girlfriend and a carefree attitude, his life seems perfect. However, things take a dark turn when a street-smart drug lord, well-known and respected, decides to spice up the young man's life. The drug lord had the winning lottery numbers but arrived late. Now, he demands the young man to pay the supposed jackpot amount within a week, or his life is at stake. The young man must quickly engage his wits to navigate this perilous situation. 17. "Light in the Dark" (2018), directed by Ekene Som Mekwunye, is a drama that delves into the sensitive topic of postpartum depression and its impact on a young couple's relationship. Emeka and Jumoke, married for 11 years with a beloved daughter, face challenges when a gang attack results in the rape of Jumoke. This traumatic event strains their relationship, and as a series of events unfolds, their journey becomes even more challenging. 18. "Kasala!" (2018), directed by Ema Edosio, is a comedy-drama recounting the story of four young boys in Lagos who find themselves in trouble while trying to make a living. A fast-talking teenager borrows his stern uncle's car for a joyride with his friends. The situation takes a turn for the worse when they crash the car, leaving them with only five hours to raise the necessary funds for repairs before the uncle returns from work. 19. "Just Not Married" (2016) is a crime comedy-drama directed by Niyi Akinmolayan. The story centers on Duke Nyamma, who, facing financial struggles due to his terminally ill mother, decides to engage in car theft to secure money for her treatment and his education. Recruiting friends Lati and Keji, they disguise themselves as a newlywed couple stealing cars. As the heists succeed, Duke's life becomes entangled with crime, leading to strained family relationships, a romance between Keji and Duke's brother Victor, and escalating criminal activities with a dangerous new partner, YJ. Duke eventually attempts to leave the criminal life, but a tragic event forces him back into the world of crime, with a plan to fund his education in Malaysia. However, conflicts with YJ and a police chase culminate in a series of events that result in Duke's departure from town, leaving behind a tumultuous tale of crime and family dynamics. 20. "The Ghost and the House of Truth" (2019), directed by Akin Omotoso, follows the story of Bola Ogun (Susan Wokoma), a counselor in Nigeria, West Africa. Bola, a single mother to her daughter Nike, specializes in helping people overcome past traumas and move forward in their lives. However, her own life takes a tragic turn when Nike goes missing and is presumed murdered. This forces Bola to confront personal suffering and challenges as she collaborates with the local police to find her daughter and bring her home. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1d_9sByrXuA |
| TV/Movies › Most Awarded African Actors by Divepen1(op): 8:26am On Jul 29, 2024 |
Dive into the world of African cinema as we explore the top actors and directors dominating the AMAA and AMVCA! From Genevieve Nnaji's stellar performances to Kunle Afolayan's directorial brilliance, discover who has the most awards and incredible stats that make them stand out. Join us as we celebrate these cinematic legends! Top Actors with the Most Awards: Genevieve Nnaji AMAA: 3 Awards (including Best Actress for The Mirror Boy in 2011) AMVCA: 1 Award (Best Actress for Lionheart in 2019) Ramsey Nouah AMAA: 2 Awards (including Best Actor for The Figurine in 2010) AMVCA: 3 Awards (Best Actor for The Wedding Party in 2017) Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde AMAA: 2 Awards (including Best Actress for The Ties That Bind in 2010) AMVCA: 2 Awards (Best Actress for Murder at Prime Suites in 2018) Kunle Afolayan AMAA: 2 Awards (including Best Director for The Figurine in 2010) AMVCA: 1 Award (Best Director for October 1 in 2015) Desmond Elliot AMVCA: 3 Awards (including Best Director for The Wedding Party in 2017) https://youtube.com/shorts/Yd6Rm4wM12k?feature=share |
| TV/Movies › Re: Here Are The 28 Contestants Of "No Loose Guard" by Divepen1(op): 8:24am On Jul 29, 2024 |
13. Kassia and Kellyrae #DOUBLEKAY: Newly wedded couple. 14. Chizoba and Onyeka #CHEKAS: Sisters.
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| TV/Movies › Re: Here Are The 28 Contestants Of "No Loose Guard" by Divepen1(op): 8:23am On Jul 29, 2024 |
9. Ozee and Ocee #MBADIWETWINS: Another set of twins in the house. 10. Damilola and Toyosi #TAMI: Longtime friends. 11. Anita and Nelly #NELITA: Friends of 9 years, a beauty queen and a pole dancer. 12. Tobi Forge and MayorFrosh #STREEZE: Social media influencers known for teasing ladies on different campuses.
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| TV/Movies › Re: Here Are The 28 Contestants Of "No Loose Guard" by Divepen1(op): 8:21am On Jul 29, 2024 |
5. Topher and Sooj #ACES: Colleagues and fashion enthusiasts. 6. Shaun and Victoria #SHATORIA: Partners by chance, met in Dubai. 7. Tjay and Ben #BETA 8. Handi and Wanni #WanniXhandi: Identical twins, both DJs.
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| TV/Movies › Here Are The 28 Contestants Of "No Loose Guard" by Divepen1(op): 8:20am On Jul 29, 2024 |
Get ready to dive into the lives of these dynamic duos! From romantic couples to best friends, and even twin siblings, this season promises drama, fun, and unforgettable moments. Here's a sneak peek at the contestants: 1. Zion and Chinwe #Zinwe: Dated for five months. 2. Fairme David and Mickhy #RADICALS: Brothers who take pride in their virginity. 3. DJ Flo and Rhuthme #FLORUISH: Friends of 10 years. 4. Nne and Chinne #NDINNE: Niece and aunt, like sisters. Others in comment section or https://youtube.com/shorts/AMx3V-KRUQM?feature=share
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| Literature › The Ogaras Are Back (video Narration Included) by Divepen1(mod): 12:38am On May 14, 2024 |
Synopsis: Join us for an epic tale of bravery and deception in the village of Odogunyan! When the notorious Ogara clan returns to wreak havoc, the villagers must band together to defeat them. But as the battle rages on, a shocking twist reveals the true identity of the Ogaras. Will the villagers emerge victorious, or will the Ogaras succeed in their evil plans? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xdjOmXyG5Ig In the village of Odogunyan, a chilling cry echoed through the streets: "Chase him!" The Baale's urgent command sparked a frenzy as the people pursued a lone figure from the rival Ogara clan. The Ogaras, notorious for their past attempts to conquer Ilu-Oro, had returned to wreak havoc on Odogunyan. Every fortnight, the Ogaras donned terrifying costumes, masquerading as monsters to intimidate the Itakumos into surrendering their goods. Their rafia garments seemed to embody an otherworldly evil, striking fear into the hearts of the villagers. Despite their bravery, the Odogunyans failed to repel the Ogaras, as they believed the Ogaras were spirits and didn't bother fighting back. Seeking guidance, they consulted Amusan Oje, a young herbalist who had inherited the legacy of the revered Baba Oje. His wisdom, however, was initially met with skepticism due to his youth. Amusan's enigmatic warning, "the leaf suffers from the insect inhabiting it," fell on deaf ears. The Ogaras continued their reign of terror until the day they crossed a line. One of their monsters attempted to rape the Baale's daughter, Omosalewa. In a shocking twist, another monster intervened, fighting the rapist with ferocity. The others tried to stop them, but he pushed them off and dragged Salewa away. Without hesitation, she followed him, and they kept running until they reached a clearing. The Ogaras were waiting for them there, and a fierce battle ensued. As their masks were torn off, a stunning revelation emerged: it was none other than Kilani, Sewa's fiancé and heir to the neighboring village of Itakumo. Everyone now realized that they were mere men, not spirits. As the truth came to light, the Baale's barn overflowed with the spoils of the Ogaras' defeat, and the high priest's storehouse was now full, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xdjOmXyG5Ig |
