Married To A Captain

Chapter 31

Sometimes reality just seems so hard to face.

Just when you think things are going to be alright, they turn upside down. You feel down, as if it's the end of the world. Nothing seems to work in your favor. Annoying? Frustrating? Sure. But what do you feel when you know you're in danger but you're too comfortable feeling that danger? Especially when that danger is at home. Nothing is scarier than your enemy being a snake you can't identify. Green snake in green grass, they said. Only this time, he hopes the snake doesn't strike him to his death.

Today was the turbaning ceremony, and honestly, nervous was an understatement for how he felt.

A small ceremony would be held in the morning for him, where he would receive his appointment letter from the state government.

On his wrist, a Patek Philippe watch shone. The watch's gold band gleamed subtly, and the watch face, adorned with beautiful details, added a touch of luxury.

He put on the Babban Riga. This robe was made of luxurious white brocade fabric with hints of silver. The neckline, cuffs, and hem had detailed embroidery.

Under the Babban Riga, Muhammad wore a white silk jalabiya. Its simple design complemented the elegant robe.

His trousers, or wando, were also white, loose, and well-fitted for comfort and elegance.

For shoes, Muhammad chose white leather slippers, handcrafted and embroidered with silver thread.

On his head, a red cap (Hulan Horande) was perched.

His uncle and some of his father's associates escorted him to the car, which took him to the central mosque.

From there, they entered the mosque where the announcement was to be made.

Inside the mosque were the kingmakers, the imams, and notable people.

He sat down as the kingmakers came and started tying a rawani (turban) on his head. After tying the turban, the announcement was made, and then the drums were beaten, and the letter was handed to him.

"An Daura Yarima Muhammad Ibrahim Waziri, Dan Marigayi Mai Martaba Ibrahim Waziri, a matsayin Mai din Maiduguri. Allah ya bashi ikon mulkin mu da gaskiya."

He received greetings from the imam, malamai, and mutanen gari.

They went to have lunch together. The room was elegantly decorated, with a large table set with fine china and silverware.

The lunch began with Kunu, a traditional drink made from grains, and Chin Chin.

The main courses featured Jollof Rice, known for its rich, spicy flavor. Pounded Yam was served with egusi soup, a spicy meat and vegetable stew made with goat or beef, and Fura, fermented grains with nono. Suya, spicy grilled meat skewers, and fried plantain were also served.

After lunch, he was escorted back to his chamber.

"Sannu," Fatima said to him. He nodded and then sat. She asked how the lunch went, and he replied that it went well.

She helped him remove the heavy garment before massaging his arms and shoulders. He groaned, feeling relieved from being cramped up in those clothes.

"So, how does it feel to be king, Mai Martaba?"

He replied with his eyes closed, "Please don't start with the Mai Martaba thing. Spare me for one more day."

Fatima laughed and said, "Why deny something that's true? You've been crowned king, so your name changes to Mai Martaba. Don't you think?"

"To you, I'm Muhammad and I'll always be. The one and only heartthrob of your heart. And don't even deny it."

"You're just flattering yourself. You really think so highly of yourself. Sorry to say, but you are Mai Martaba from now on. No denying."