The next morning, Labi and his father arrived at the King's palace. As they waited for the King to appear from his chambers, Labi was captivated by the numerous paintings on the walls. He was amazed by the beauty of the artwork, and found it strange that he could understand the stories of each painting.
What really caught his attention, however, was something that others could not see - the spirit guides of those working at the palace. These spirit guides were of various shapes and sizes, some with runes and some without, and some with "mariwo" or "Iko" wrapped around their middle.
The palace guard at the entrance had a particularly large guardian, whose head was almost touching the roof and who was stooping a little over the man.
Eventually, the King arrived looking worried. As soon as he sat on his throne, Labi and his father immediately prostrated in respect.
“Kábíyèsí o” they chorused.
The King gestured for them to stand up and sit. He cleared his throat, looked at the Chief,
“Olóyè, hope there's no problem? Is anything the matter? “ The King asked.
" My King, there's fire on the mountain. I and my son, Owolabi, had the same dream last night, and you know my dreams do come true. Aside that, you know about Owolabi's abilities.” Replied Chief.
“ True. So, what's this dream about?”
Labi looked at his father, who gave him a sign to proceed. He prostrated again to greet the King before settling himself on the chair.
"Kábíyèsí, I saw war. Chaos everywhere.” He shivered at the memory of the dream.
Labi's father shook his head in affirmation.
" That was the exact thing I saw, my King.”
The king sighed and bent his head in deep thought. He stayed motionless for a few minutes before raising his head to speak to Chief.
“ I had the same dream too. In fact, I just had a consultation with the priest. His only solution is to look for some courageous youths that can get “omi adun" the sweet water. Chief Oyewole, where can I get courageous youths? Being a youth is far different from being courageous!” The King exclaimed.
" Hmm, like how many are we supposed to send?” Asked the Chief.
“ At least 9 and at most 12.”
“Ha! That would be a little hard.”
Exclaimed Chief.
“ How can we go about it?” The King persisted.
“ My King, I think the town-crier should go around to announce to young men to assemble at the palace first, or what do you think?”
"Perfect. That would be a wonderful start. See why it has always been affirmed that two heads are better than one?”
The two men laughed. Labi was already fidgeting, he had something to say, but he wasn't sure of his father's reaction to it. Before he could stop himself, he blurted.
“Kábíyèsí, I would like to be among those that will go fetch the water.”
The room became so quiet, a pin would be heard if it fell. Chief looked at his son for a long time before turning to the King. But the king spoke first,
“ Your son is brave.”
"Kábíyèsí, I don't even know what to say.” Turning to his son, he said, " are you sure about this? This is no child's play, Owolabi. There will be casualties. Think it through, my son.”
“ Baami, I know there would be casualties, but it won't be mine or anybody who goes with me. Remember, I can see and communicate with the other world. They will guide me to and fro. Please let me go.” He pleaded.
Chief shook his head and sighed.
“No problem.” Turning to the King, he said,
“ Kábíyèsí, the town-crier, will go round tomorrow.”
They stayed a little more for merriment, as the King won't allow them to go without breaking fast with him. Afterward, Labi and his father headed home to prepare for his upcoming journey.
YOU ARE READING
The Perfect Vision
AdventureLabi,the only son of his father mistakenly got the power of seeing things . He was at first confused but had to deal with the many challenges that comes with the ability to predict both the past and future. Will this newfound power save him or ruin...
