The kingdom of Umuoma was abuzz with excitement. Prince Obinna, the only son of King Eze Udo and Queen Ngozi, was returning after ten years abroad. He had left as a boy and was returning as a man, having studied governance and philosophy in Europe. The villagers prepared elaborate feasts, and maidens adorned themselves in their finest attire, hoping to catch the prince's eye.
Obinna's return was marked by grand celebrations. Drummers played fervently, warriors displayed their might in mock battles, and the air was filled with the scent of roasted yam and palm wine. The prince arrived in a grand procession, his presence commanding and regal.
While the village buzzed with excitement, Oluchi retreated to her usual hiding place in the forest. She had no interest in the celebrations. "What does it matter?" she thought. "Even if the prince notices me, it will only be to mock me like everyone else."
The forest had always been Oluchi's refuge. She loved the way the trees towered over her, making her feel small in their embrace. Here, she could forget her pain and dream of a life where she was accepted.
It was during one of these solitary moments that Prince Obinna first saw her. He had slipped away from the palace festivities, seeking a moment of peace. Drawn by the sound of birdsong, he wandered deep into the forest and stumbled upon Oluchi standing beneath an ancient baobab tree.
For a moment, he thought he was dreaming. She stood tall and proud, her long limbs blending seamlessly with the surrounding trees. The sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting a golden glow on her skin. She looked ethereal, almost otherworldly.
"Hello," he said, his voice breaking the silence.
Startled, Oluchi turned to see the prince standing a few feet away. Her heart raced. She had heard stories of his charm and elegance, but she never imagined she would meet him face-to-face.
"Your Highness," she stammered, lowering her gaze.
"Please, don't bow," Obinna said with a warm smile. "What is your name?"
"Oluchi," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.
"That's a beautiful name," he said, stepping closer. "Do you come here often?"
"Yes," she admitted. "It's the only place where I feel at peace."
Obinna tilted his head, intrigued. "Why would someone as extraordinary as you need to hide?"
His words caught her off guard. "Extraordinary?" she repeated. "No one has ever called me that before."
"Well, they should," he said. "You stand out in the best way possible."