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Chapter 9 - The council meeting

" Milord, I'm not in support of this feast. The Other tribes has been cruel to us for a long time, why the sudden change of heart? Something isn't right here." One of the elders spoke. He was the youngest amongst the four elders.

" Elder Gera, you mustn't conclude like that. This people in question are our brothers, our blood." Another elder said.

" Milord, what do you think? You were invited to dine with the king of Sheba. You are in a better position to judge since you've met with him one-on-one." Elder Dera says, as he gestures for the other elders to keep quiet.

Elder Dera was the oldest man amongst the forest tribe. He has been the royal adviser since the reign of King Hele's grandfather, Shamgar. He was from the island tribe, son of prince Ham( father of the islanders).

After the death of emperor Sushmita, prince Shamgar was kicked out of the palace, Dera decided to go with him, because they were very close. Together they formed the forest tribe. Shortly after, Prince Shamgar died from a strange illness. His son, Shamgar Jr, father of Hele, reigned in his stead at a very young age.

" I know the other tribes had been unfair to us, but I also believe they've changed. The gods have touched their hearts, they have come to realize that we're one. I will say we give them the benefit of the doubt. No one is perfect. People can change." King Hele replied.

" Elders of the forest tribe, our king is right, people can change. As far they are the ones who brought the idea of a reunion, it will be rude for us not to consider their invitation. It's just a harmless feast after all. Elder Dera concluded.

" It is decide then, we all will be present at the feast next week. The feast will last for three days, so prepare ahead for it. King Hele said.

There was silence in the court room for a while before Elder Ella spoke.

" Milord, as the oldest woman amongst the forest tribe, I believe I have the right to speak.

" Why not. You're among the council of elders, you have all the right to speak your mind. King Hele replied.

Ella was like a mother figure to him. King Hele's mother died when he was six. Ever since, Ella has played the role of a mother to him. He loved her dearly.

" According to you, your majesty. King Shaka has invited you, together with all the men in our tribe to the feast. May I ask why were women and children not included."

There was silence again.

" According to king Shaka, women and children are not included because it will be too stressful for them. The journey from here to Sheba's palace will take an entire day.

" The king is right, we can't allow our women and children, especially nursing mothers, to embark on a day journey to sheba's palace." Elder. Nun added.

" Milord, am I permitted to ask one more question?" Elder Ella asked.

" Mother, please go ahead." King Hele gestured for her to continue.

" King Shaka specifically asked for males from age ten and above. May I ask why?"

" Elder Ella, the reason is quite obvious. children from age ten are strong enough to make the trip. Children below this age range are too young to make the journey. Elder Nun replied.

" Forgive me milord. I know you've made up your mind to go, but I assure you things won't go as you've planned."

" I understand your fear mother, but don't you worry, the gods are with us. We're going there armed, we will be ready for any attack." King Hele reassured her.

" The meeting has come to an end. Send words to king Shaka, tell him that we accept his invitation. I and my people will be there in two weeks for the reunion feast." King Hele says, standing up on his feet. Everyone stood up from their seats. King Hele left the courtroom first, elder Dera followed before the other elders.

Author's Note

Hi cuties 🥰 thank you once again for choosing to read my book. I hope you're enjoying the book so far. I want to know what you think about King Hele's decision, did he do the right thing or not, if you were in his shoes, what will you do? Add me on wattsap, +23407069606207, send this text, " I'm Black and Proud" to the number above. When I see your message, I will add you to the wattsap group. You can air your view there, and I will answer any question you have regarding this book. Thanks ❤️