CHOICE IN A THIN LINE

CHAPTER SEVEN

  “Paul Collins I sneaked out. Follow me in.” “Can I?” “Yes Sandra!” Mr Adewale appearance signified more. From his calmed look, I agreed all is well. “She had slept. Jonathan is constant monitoring her.” “How about Michael sir?” “pretending he is sleeping to know all motives of the women in case they are eavesdropping.” Dark room we packed ourselves never cooled. As if sleeping hour is when clock struck. Women discussing earlier had started snoring harder. “Sir, I broke your camera. Forgive me.” “Ouch!” Mr Adewale expressed pain in his mood of curiosity. “I could had snapped another tribe.” Next move been planned. Jonathan monitors any strange movement around. “Now, I lied we are Kenyans coming for regular visits to check various homes in various communities. Those voices from far would soon end.” “She is in deep sleep.” “Leave her, listen to me. From this window, whoever is passing we can see easily. Understand this, Kibai would do all just to show Maasai where we are. If brave Maasai come hunting for us believe me, we have advantage over them.” “What advantage over people having dangerous weapons for animals? Kibai may had narrate he saw us holding ancient Maasai spear.” “You know something? Striking before your enemy gives you victory. Watch how I shall strike against that person that conclude we are here for poaching.” “Change your plan, sir, cooperation can bring success to all of us. Maasai that would attack may want cooperation before attacking.” “Well, I shall monitored situations before trying something funny.” I swallowed my saliva in happy mood. “Compass. I remember.” Mr Adewale dipped out his round small compass checking for slim route we can pass without been noticed. “I am baffled. She said lions hunt humans on broad daylight. Lions killed an old Maasai man taking care of cattle. From that moment, locals hunt wild lions. King Erodo became the first warrior, killing two lions with an ancient spear. Maasai proclaimed him King because of his bravery.” “Hmm... I suggest I return it back to where I saw it.” “Leave this for me.” Handling issues with levity I hate so much. Mr Adewale remain relaxed despite danger approaching not only the community we hid but we as well. “Paul Collins knapsack can’t leave him. I like that.” “Useful in case of emergency.” “Golden necklace from where?” “Amulet. An hunter gave me.” “Sign!” “about what?” “Paul Collins check Jonathan outside.” Less than a minute, Jonathan entered telling something different. “Who are this two?” “This, Paul Collins, that Sandra.” “Beautiful Kenyan girl. Sit on that chair, you deserved royal chair, manage that.” “I greet you in Kenyan way for your kind gesture.” “Kenyan citizens don’t greet the way you greeted. I doubt if really your origin is from Kenya.” Fear rammed me coldly. Mr Adewale short of words makes him defeated to defend his earlier lies he present to the sensible Kenyan woman. “I am delighted being in this room.” “Maasai spear? Maasai bow and arrow? Every communities talked about this missing weapons. Return it back this very moment. Pack things you people brought, leave my room. Maasai shall punish me for betraying them.” “Why not tomorrow ma?” “out of my room!” I carried Maasai weapons with me, adjust flexible knapsack hanging on my shoulders. “Paul Collins that is sign your amulet signals.” I can’t even speak. I launched into tears. “Which road exactly? Compass. Compass fail me not.” Direction of Mr Adewale compass point right. “Hurry.” “Lions would attack. I won’t move an inch.” “Be in middle Sandra!” ten hours walk challenging; images sprung out in an ambush way. “Thirsty?” Mr Adewale himself in dire need of water. “Stream water sir!” “Drain as much all of you.” On my knees, I sank my weak hands pushing water into my dried throat. Strengths developed.

  “Students another hill awaits everyone. That is only egress!” in college supposing a priest put forward his visions concerning five frustrating days I would have in Nairobi I won’t delay snubbing his or her vision. Frustrating days could be ahead; still, I encouraged myself. Farmers had already start to plough ridges. “Thank God. One farmer among them would be familiar with safari park we search for.” Mr Adewale is pliable so, I was determined challenging his decisions. “Good morning sir. Sorry to have disturb each one of you. We are on an excursion, we toiled for one thing. Please where exactly is safari park located?” “from Mombasa?” “exactly!” Mr Adewale quickly answered to clear any doubts that is capable of raising fears. “Safari park I had been there for a long time. Big animals play around in freedom. Is your tickets having address? Check it carefully.” “I understand what you mean. Our mission is to purchase tickets to gain access to watch animals.” “Hold on, no tickets?” “for now.” “I purchased my ticket four months before becoming a guest to watch animals. Try to get there as possible, in five months time, your turns to watch animals.” “Why is there delays?” “crowd all over the world shower themselves for all time memory. Some had purchased their ticket over a year now.” “Is there little hope we can get tickets when getting there?” “Choice in a thin line. Is possible only when quick.” “Which direction to get there?” “that way!” “I am grateful.” On porous ground we move ditto. “Climb gradually.” “Termites!” circled by termites, I looked around if divine help can come. “It is stinging my ankle!” Mr Adewale lighter was quick, termites about weakening my ankle smell flames spreading out on dry grass Mr Adewale pushed to their direction. Hurtful termites confused while fighting for survival. “Should I chase after them?” “for what reason? Journey is fresh.” Tempting crest sweet to rest. Mr Adewale took an object like telescope pushing it to his left eye. “Man feeding his cattle. Arid lands surrounded by thick bushes. Yes, this direction. Fast!” journey route easy for once. Mr Adewale confirmed what he saw. “Hello!” “How can I help you?” “safari park closer?” “look through the eyes of this animals.” Mr Adewale rub his palm on a cow facing him. “I need your help. For days it had been difficult finding safari park.” “Do as I say.” “No need.” “Listen carefully. This five cattle are ill. All I want is an assistance. Can you understand animals mind through their eyes?” “Job of Vet doctor. Take them there before they die.” “I will do all I know.” “Who is this boy?” “My intelligent student too smart.” “Moo! Moo!” Cattle watching me replied. “How often do they eat daily?” “three times.” “Feed them five times. Their reply shows five of their silent cattle are sick.” “Surprise, for months this cattle had never utter any sounds. Such an amazing person you are. Your name?” “Paul Collins.” “Vet doctor?” “college student!” “have experience with animals?” “during the time I was with my mother. Lots of animals are under my care. I learnt their various languages.” “what do you aspire to become in life?” “I want to be a seaman. Protecting my country waterway from oil theft, pirac
y at all cost is all I want.” “Your dream shall come to pass. So, I don’t know where I can get a Vet doctor.” “Early morning grass would cure their illness.” “No cost?” “that is all.” “Safari park is 2 miles away. I am part of Maasai tribes men. Kakenya is my name. Poachers comes unexpectedly to steal our cattle. We Maasai say no to poaching. By chance have any of you come across poachers?” “not even one.” “King Erodo had placed a reward for whoever catches poachers.” “Trust us, we won’t delay to report presence of poachers on your lands.” First Maasai man we came across waved as we continued our mission. “Paul Collins that was clever of you. He begged for answer; you gave him all he want. I see animals understand communications. Animals loved someone that reads their minds. Give me a warm handshake.” “Dirty hands, you deserved clean hands to shake you.” Avoiding myself from shaking Mr Adewale burst out unexpectedly. “Wash your dirty hands, Paul Collins.” “If coming across water I must wash my hands, thereupon, I shall shake you sir, if given that rare chance.” Reason for refusing to have a warm handshake with Mr Adewale is his slow thinking. The first Maasai man we met is sensible. If I didn’t use my discretion, he would concur we came poaching. “Wrong way, we need to get back over there. An image stand far away. This telescope can’t be wrong.” Journey is strenuous any moment Mr Adewale led. Days had diminished; taking bathe something of the past. Snakes, lions, tigers or any creeping animals would prevent any of us from doing the mandatory. “Paul Collins take a look, confirm it yourself.” “Gigantic statue of a Maasai man. Michael see for yourself.” Three of us were right, an image afar shows humans are living not too close from where we are getting to. Focused eyes were restless, short expectations high. In our minds having same thought that very moment is reasonably welcomed. “Sir, ambush is closer. People in this communities desperately hunting for poachers.” “Shut your mouth Paul Collins. Poaching, a criminal offence I know that. Not here to poach. I must defend everyone of us.” “But sir, spear owned by King of Maasai had been too long with me. Explaining how it got to my hand, I can’t. Maasai hunting for poachers may be prowess in catching their enemies. Legendary spear with me would put me in trouble. I need to throw it away.” “Try it and see the other side of me.” Two offence we carried; first is suspected offence to poach on Kenyan soil. Second is offence of stealing King Erodo’s spear, his bow and arrow. “Somebody kept that image as a trap. Trick too late trying. Poachers would fall easily for that precious image. As for us, here on an excursion.” Speculated image of Maasai stand unshakeable while I stand for almost thirty minutes watching. “This is awesome!” “Kenyans are great. Such... precious image? How I wish camera was with me. I would had snapped fifty of it, making me famous tourist having rare photos.” “C-Caravan!” “Paul Collins where did it lain?” “fifty walk from here.” Mr Adewale ran, making me to walk faster just to catch up with him. “I can’t believe this. Well built. Come in time.” Mr Adewale called rest of his students as he get fully set to confront any attack. “Pull off your shoes. It is sacrilege coming with shoes on this soil. “One minute after I have had entered. Paul Collins open to see if I am being held captive.” “Sir. Wait, is anybody in? We need help!” “Owner of this caravan may be dead. Waste of time shouting Paul Collins.” “I don’t think so.” Sandra spoke in clerical voice. Suspicious caravan hide in between fresh tall grasses. Mr Adewale entered undisturbed. Our sharp wide open eyes fixed at the entrance of the caravan. “Come inside. Come inside. Beautiful home to live!” Mr Adewale yelled. Dark settees arranged for visitors on one side. Dwellers settees beside two rooms facing each others. “Temporal home for twelve hours.” “Safari park not in my mind for now. I love Nairobi. I must stay even helicopter arrives.” “Michael, mission must be accomplished. Beautiful place like this won’t deter me from achieving our desired goals.” “Master. I found this rifle.” “Then who is in control of this caravan?” “Maasai. I believe it is them.” “Paul Collins show me how smart to use this rifle.” “Tweak here, bullet will go straight to the right target.” “Liquor sir. Big back pocket attached to each settees had liquors.” “Let me read instructions about this liquor. 99% alcoholic. Punctured cap. Taste it.” “I don’t sir.” Mr Adewale poured massive liquor into his mouth; he is gradually listless in journey ahead. “Join in this merriment.” “What merriment sir?” “No ambush from anyone. Drink Paul Collins.” Leader I trusted betrayed full trust I had for him. Nobody far home must know Mr Adewale drank alcohol in Nairobi. “Sir, stop drinking it. It is—wrong!”

  I was flustered. Speaking to Mr Adewale doesn’t worth it. I shook my head, about coming with a pensive idea. “Michael, he is drowsy what can I do?” “tired man, allow him to rest. He is unable to withstand such prolonged journey.” I stand at my elbow while pulling a long face. I licked my lips focus at him, he was gradually dossing. “Team work would be needed. Michael monitor each movement. Blink of any, don’t hesitate signalling me.” Crack shelf beside the right settees carried documents too many to read. Closer, there laid a big artwork, intricate designs attractive to watch for decades. Liquor Mr Adewale drunk really baffled everyone. Mysterious caravan dwelled alone undisturbed on coarse ground. “What a beautiful picture of Maasai man? Is this King we await to see?” “He is. I believe he is the one.” “Is this planned work? King Erodo residing in caravan?” “problem with that?” “just surprised.” “Where is this rifle?” “on Mr Adewale’s lap.” “Protecting ourselves should be major priority. Did you heard?” “heard what?” “Clasp of hands.” “Each locals rushing.” “To where?” “inside caravan.” “Enter fast as you can!” “Mr Adewale should be informed.” “Wake him!” I instructed. Mr Adewale not affable, his face soaked with sweats. I hurtled, hid, using cotton demarcating two rooms the caravan had. Scary blast hit the entrance door. I melt in fear. “Open or else we shall force it open!” “identify yourselves!” “authorities against intruders.” “Michael should I?” I asked. “Zero choice. We better open before our punishment increases.” In fearful state I opened boldly. “People stealing our animals. Our ancestors had placed heavy wrath on all of you!” I snuffled all for sake of Mr Adewale. “Check that room if someone is hiding!” warble tone each henchmen displayed really cool down my state. “One only.” “Bring him out!” Doubts doubled in their minds. Destruction begun to confirm no one is hiding. “Intruders, poachers dwelling on our land our King must decide your fates. Start praying in little minutes remaining. Once judgement is pronounced I for long never see that persons like riffraff watching me escaping severe punishment.” He gave his short provocative barking laugh after end of speech. Open discussions among the henchmen panic Sandra. As only girl we carried along fear had been building deeper in her since our arrival in Nairobi. Mr Adewale awoke, discovered strange muscular men surround him eagerly. “Reality show. Wonderful statures.” “Leader, wil
d lions prefer eating, sleeping vagabond! Reserve another sleep till when each lions fights to have you in their belly.” I remained where I was. Plans of escaping can’t be reached. Muscular henchmen numbering twelve beat their chests and held live celebrations. “Tie their hands backward!” their curious leader instructed. “For what?” Mr Adewale got his slap of his life for asking question increasing his offence. “Stars. Stars. This is what I see.” Mr Adewale could bear the pain alone. “For decades we had desperately tried catching poachers. I set this caravan, positioned liquors at back of each settees. I advised our King liquor can be of help. This is it. it worked!” another celebrations another happiness took their day. Mr Adewale recovered seeing clearly. He eyed me. He gazed around for escape route. “That would be difficult. I can read your mind. I am a mind-reader!” youngest one among them declared his profession. “Move forward!” innocent slaves on a neutral soil I wept silently. Route easier since we were guarded by brave muscular henchmen determined slaying wild animals. “I forgot something Korinko.” “Get it as fast!” we stopped till he arrived. “Where did this came from?” Korinko asked. “From the caravan!” “is it for you?” “Yes. No. For someone.” “Criminal! King Erodo owned it. Stealing, offence number three.” “Mercy. Show mercy. Allow this innocent ones to go.” “Be silent or I silence you!” I frowned pretending to watch Sandra’s plight. “Gourd I carried is filled with water. Who is thirsty amongst you?” none of us replied joyous Korinko. Many children jumped, some were impassioned in the community leading to palace of King Erodo. “Poachers tormenting our cattle. Children have them. Do something against them!” “Change your decision Korinko. King Erodo would launched his blames upon you if this offenders are injured.” Excited children in community we were rubbed their palms on our back. “Let your heart beat faster now. King Erodo palace, here we come.” Coming closer, a fascinating beats of gong almost deaf each eardrum we have. Korinko prostrate before a man been decorated with monarchical apparel. Golden crown fixed on his head. “Your majesty, we have them in our hands.” “Tell me degree of offence this quiet, panicked people had committed.” “Speak for yourself intruders!” Korinko yelled. “Actually ... no crime is committed.” “Stupid idiot. Addressed the King as your majesty.” “Pardon me, your majesty!” surprised King Erodo shook his head. “Your majesty. Far distance we came from. I am a Nigerian. This students also citizens of Nigeria. Excursion brought us here.” “Your majesty their leader is lying. Check this your majesty. It is your spear. Your bow and arrow giving to you after that big lion you killed. Of course your majesty. This spear especially is mandatory to show each communities whenever annual celebrations is held for your reigns.” “Feathers. Where can I locate their feathers.” “Your majesty which feathers?” “Korinko.” “Yes your majesty.” “That feathers this people used to fly from their country to Nairobi.” Pang destabilised Mr Adewale’s face. “I understand your majesty. Maybe they came through airplane.” “Korinko.” “Yes your majesty.” “Is it that thing that move on the air.” “Your majesty as if you knew it better than me.” “Ask them, what brought them from their country to Nairobi?” “I obey your courage your majesty. Head of intruders. Where is your means of transportation?” “helicopter brought all of us here.” “Helicopter? Where is it now? Tell me so that I can free all of you.” “It has gone back home.” “For this lie, I promise this shall lead you all direct to dungeon. Truth can set you free.” “Soonest, helicopter will come, carrying us back home.” “Eh, stop that. You all shall be highest prisoners in dungeon kept for offenders. I forgot your majesty!” “forgot what Korinko?” “to say they poach also.” “Poachers? I must placed severe judgement on them. Ask them Korinko, did one of them sneaked into my well guarded kingdom to steal this spear, bow, arrow?” “long live your majesty. Precious spear on your servant hand is seen resting beside one tall fruit tree. I honoured your spear I can call also a sword.” “Amulet on his neck?” “youngest one among them wore amulet surprising me.” “Untie them Korinko. Young great boy. Amulet worn by only one prince. Who are you young boy?” “Paul Collins.” “Is this man poaching our animals?” “Mr Adewale cannot do that. He is trusted fellow.” “Excursion where exactly to?” “safari park.” “Am so sorry. I now bear blame for this misunderstanding. Korinko. Take them into my palace. Treat them like our own.” “I will your majesty.” King Erodo’s last word led to a crescendo. “Here, sit, relax, food would be ready by now.” Local milk in rotund bowl brought before us. “Korinko doing work five servants can do. King Erodo loved animals. He must follow you people to watch animals playing.” “Korinko!” “long live your majesty.” “Excuse me. I want secret talk with my guests.” Korinko left King Erodo’s guest room. “Mr Adewale confident leader. Have you heard that word Maasai before?” “Of course your majesty.” “That spear, also serving as sword had written inscription. Kenyan language only Kenyans can understand.” “Interesting.” “Paul Collins. I want someone like you be as brave as me. Timid ones don’t put on amulet. Maasai warrior you would be. Sit closer me.” Sumptuous animals skins already on floor I sat. Fine animals decorations really interest my stay.* “Kenya beautiful place in Africa. Place of cool water, Nairobi beautiful city to dwell in anytime.” Korinko dashed bowing before the king. “Sorry to disturb you your majesty.” “Go on Korinko.” “Entertainers prepared for traditional music. Can they come in?” “Guests, Maasai musicians wants to entertain you people with Maasai songs. Give them this hour, believe me, Maasai musicians would be best musicians music you all will ever heard.” King Erodo did not know I can sing. Unforgettable music I sang in Kenya, titled sweet mother cannot easily erased from my classmates memory. Mullet-styled Maasai entertainers entered, all head low in presence of the king. Low tone Maasai musician commenced, clapping their palms in appreciation. Each Maasai musicians apprise our presence in Nairobi. “Our guests, their music is talking about history of Maasai.” Short hilarious Maasai women impressive in skills with viva voice. Large earrings pendent on their noses. While progressing with their melody, a chap make an acrobat, holding six tambourines. He kept it beside the Maasai singing passionately. Melody tambourines in a trice thrilled my night. Prancing Maasai musicians smiled warmly. Two guards stand at back of King Erodo fanning him with big needled feathers of peacock. “I want good rest guests. Hence, I must rest in my palace room.” King Erodo chamberlains led him into his room. Guards also follow King Erodo further. Weakness fast harder on King Erodo’s face. His old age slows words from his abated mouth. Weary state King Erodo is battling with slow his steps. Maasai musicians ended as wall clock struck. Korinko dropped some coins into their open palms. They took their small tambourines and left. “Hot meals before sleeping. Servers bring it in!” appetizing meals served in trays. One swallow alone; I felt I could forget what brought me to Kenya. Mr Adewale subdued his
meal, sweating profusely. “Korinko this meal is delicious. I ate such meal in Nigeria, my country. Can I ask for something?” “as our kingdom guest, free to ask.” “More meal left?” “servers must bring another one. Demand more as you can. Paul Collins still want more?” Korinko had been keeping close at me. He want more satisfaction for me. “I need more. delicious meal I won’t forget easily.” “Girl another plate?” Mr Adewale responded pronouncing Sandra’s name. Korinko amazed Sandra had wonderful name. “I prefer more.” “Servers bring more!” more meals were served so piled up as if our stomachs was having drums. Within short minutes of consumption we back off. Korinko never sat until he see full satisfaction on us. “Fine room for guests. Follow me I will show it to each of you.” I judged the Maasai as local tribes; but temporal room assigned to me really speak volume about Maasai. Well placed rug, plain white clothes, soft pillows, spreading mosquitoes net, standing cupboards, TV set baffled me. “Maasai prince enjoy your room, don’t hesitate to call me in case you need something I can be of help.” “Thank King Erodo for this. How about others, do they have good room as I have?” “King Erodo ordered I should assign his prince this room. Paul Collins your room is the best. Others have a bit okay room.” “Not as beautiful as this?” “not as!” “okay thanks.” “We see next day Paul Collins, prince of Maasai.” “I appreciate.” Korinko left eagerly making me believe he has another assignment with King Erodo. In amazement I walked round quadruple corners comparing beauty I saw with that of my master’s room.* Maasai drawings disapprove sleep that refuse coming. King Erodo is a clever king, he must do within his reach for him to make me his prince, Korinko face exposed all. Thud knock sliced another amazing drawings I about watching. “Korinko back for an information?” “Paul Collins is me!” Mr Adewale traced room I was, sniff round, shook himself approvingly. “Paul Collins, prince deserved this room.” “Sir. King Erodo instructed Korinko to give me this room. He called me his prince.” “Lucky boy. Amulet on this thin neck of yours saved us. I can’t stop thanking you. See you next day!” Mr Adewale left. He closed the room quietly. Sleeping as prince on bed, praying for more stay in Nairobi, I love to see. Exactly 9:00 on broad morning I jumped off my feet, ran checking if I was actually on another dream. I smiled since it is a reality. “Such can’t be a dream. Live experience!” “How was your night, prince?” “Korinko from where?” Surprisingly King Erodo stood in middle of doorway. “Paul Collins elephants is waiting. Inform others to get ready for safari park.” “I greet you sir, your majesty.” King Erodo stretched his hands to accept greeting from me. It took me two minutes getting myself ready. I try to meet up with King Erodo’s preparedness; I looked about for Mr Adewale. “Paul Collins. King Erodo is waiting for you.” “Can I inform others?” “I have inform them. For now they are fully ready on their elephants.” Coming outside, giants elephants shaking to move. “Korinko lift him on his elephant.” I sat grinning, wondering how our elephants can take us far. “Sandra don’t panic!” King Erodo begged. Korinko with four others guarding King Erodo as his elephant move. King Erodo talking to his colourful parrot standing on his left shoulder. On elephant I catch welcome sights of nomadic communities. Movement is slow as we approached dead end. “Look!” I turn left to see what alerted Sandra. A bleak, swampy stretch soggy landscape, wind-swept, devoid of human habitation of any sort. Coming closer, resort of running animals of same family catch everyone’s attention. Something baffles me, there was trace of human existing there before, tall signpost really tells of that. I sighed deeper. Korinko walked straight to King Erodo. Silent discussions going on between King Erodo and Korinko. “Get down from your elephant! My king has said he want his prince and others to see rocks welcoming strangers!” carefully, I jumped down helping others. Mr Adewale walked to the dusty trails leading to the rocks. “This crevice is dangerous for anyone to sit on, the crust has expose the crack part.” “Mr Adewale sit on your elephant. Others do the same.” King Erodo has given orders to Korinko for us to move. On elephants, excitement grew higher. In a minute; rocks we near to gaze at became bigger. Our elephants boom from anger. “Size of each rocks panicking them.” King Erodo explained. “How long is this rocks existing?” again, each elephants boom while shifting back. “Two hundred years ago.” “Students. It seems fauna, flora might be existing on this rocks about cracking off.” Mr Adewale statement were lucid. “King Erodo have important thing to say.” “Tourist. Mount Kilimanjaro not far. Time may not permit me to give others to Korinko, he knows there.” Sandra mute still watching each rocks. Mr Adewale forced down accosted by Korinko to be careful. “Students watch as I go under this particular rock.” I rub myself fearing for Mr Adewale’s life. I knew if something happens, King Erodo would want me and others to stay forever in Nairobi. Mr Adewale crawled out unhurt. He threw a small stone up the rock. His target is his explanation. We understand what he meant. Foundation of that rock he just came out under is too strong. “Fast Mr Adewale. King Erodo is exhausted.” Loyal Korinko said. Weather was humid on road to safari park. “Your majesty; hold on. Hold on. I should be through in next couple of minutes!” Mr Adewale shouted alerting King Erodo of his willingness to finish in due minutes. “Sir. King Erodo is too old to stay hesitantly in sun.” “Paul Collins I agree with you. Am so tired. Give me an handkerchief.” Near from our spot, clasp of hands from Korinko showed a clear signal. It is right time to move. Mr Adewale carried himself up, sat on his elephant. King Erodo had lose patience in Mr Adewale teachings. Camera snapshot would have been great benefit supposing we have one. Our elephants ride on smoothly. Korinko passed water to me, I signalled him I was okay. He went straight giving Sandra and others water to quench their taste. “Korinko. This elephants need water also.” “Stream not too far.” Last elephant walking majestically was elephant I sat on. Slowly; our elephants trumpet scarily making King Erodo gasping for breath. Sandra’s elephant displayed final weakness by refusing to proceed forward. “Sandra just sit, don’t shake!” I pull down in desperate mood. I never allowed Korinko to show delay concern; rather, I hold Sandra down taking her up my elephant. Bland journey became worry for me. “Stream. Down from your elephants, direct them to drunk litres of water.” Clean stream tempt me. I bent lower swallowing water my stomach can carry. “Korinko move on!” once King Erodo commanded his trusted henchman, it is final. Korinko obey cautiously. Journey continue immediately Korinko moved. Harrowing journey make me sobbed out legendary tears in which I can’t explain cause of it. King Erodo pat his elephant to stop. Korinko ran inquiring reason for his King stopping. “Prince. I feel your tears.” He snarled. King Erodo would not stop calling me his prince. I imagined if he really had a son. “Korinko important personal word with the prince. Help me down.” Four others assisted Korinko lifting down King Er
odo from his exhausted elephant. King Erodo walked towards me, paused, shook himself. “I have a boy not bold as you. Soonest, where I rule we shall both get there.” “Your majesty. Son? Tell me something. Why do you prefer to call me your prince instead?” “right from when I saw your amulet. I concluded you shall rule before him.” “How about the queen, your majesty?” “she is in main palace with timid son of mine.” “Which location is that palace?” “two minutes walk, we shall be there.” King Erodo want us firstly in his main palace before he tells us where safari park lies. “Paul Collins smile, almost there.” King Erodo on his elephant as he lead briskly. Nearer, I smell presence of villages. A tall darker in complexion haggard old man on colourful wrapper waiting to welcome the king. Bald head, big ear-rings on his nose, he hold a tall bent stick which I believe he is Maasai. “Lekufon standing to welcome his king.” King Erodo voiced. “He has arrived! He has arrived!” Grosses villagers trooped out, eager to welcome their only king controlling Maasai kingdom. I refrain from coming down until I get full assurance that villagers coming towards us won’t attack. Conga beats all over as King Erodo came down happily. “Paul Collins follow me.” I now forced down after others had been waiting to see me land down. “Is he one of us?” Lekufon asked. “On an excursion from Nigeria.” Lekufon growls. “How is my queen?” “doing well.” “Lemasolai?” “prince Lemasolai is doing well also.” Lined up elephants that carried us squeaked. Maasai elders in squabble; opportunity walking to see situations around. Somehow, while gazing around, one Maasai elder saw shining amulet on my neck swinging. “He is prince linked to a kingdom.” He shouted alerting Lemasolai and the queen. “Prostrate before him. Two prince in our kingdom.” King Erodo welcomed by his son, wife and servants. “Your majesty who is this boy that put on amulet?” “prince.” “But Lemasolai also have same amulet with him?” “Yes. Two prince would succeed me.” “Second prince I welcome you. From where?” she asked. “From Nigeria.” Maasai queen jealousy grew wilder. “Korinko prepare five rooms for them.” “I will your majesty.” King Erodo snuggled me, kissed me. “Rain fall seven years ago. Your coming here would bring luck.” Mr Adewale not recognised like I. Any short statement he is about making would be snubbed by King Erodo. “Crops refuse growing. Farmers had shed their frustrations. Advice me, what is next option?” “rain would fall. Farmers would laugh.” Thunder screams, an heavy downpour took over the village. Korinko used light umbrella to protect us including his king. Palace guards wait, directing King Erodo to sit on his royal chair. “Our crops would grow. Paul Collins prince of Maasai you are great!” queen of Maasai frowns at me. Her son who is direct prince never bothered, he sat with me on same embroidered mat. “Your majesty, jubilations!” “Korinko. Farmers are expressing much happiness. Leave them, I know they must parade themselves to meet me in my palace.” Stupendous night for King Erodo, farmers flushed in rapidly all prostrating front of King Erodo. “Meitikini head of farmer this day a reality you wished for. Celebrate anyway, age is not friendly with you.” “Your majesty, Strange. This strangers brought luck to our entire villages.” “See him. He is the one that predict rain. Another thing Meitikini, Paul Collins, prince of Maasai promised farmers would laugh. I can see that.” “Our women had stored enough water for days ahead. Empty pails had brimmed your majesty. Thank you for allowing our strangers to come to your palace.” “Meitikini greet other farmers. Make them understand I also share their happiness.” Meitikini left warmly. “Korinko flute. Entertain our prince, also our strangers.” Flute played on orders from King of Maasai. I glance watching how Korinko was displaying his talents. Pellucid sounds led dozens villagers in. Villagers passim expressing their gratitude. Loud celebrations continued till next day. King Erodo had left his royal chair to take his bathe. Korinko led each of us to the bathroom. I finished bathing, wearing a Maasai apparel. Mr Adewale funny in his Maasai apparel. Korinko played flute for King Erodo as he sat on his elephant. Randomly set as we sat on well fed elephants. “Safari park, oh I must visit there again!” King Erodo expressed. Proximity of safari park not far, King Erodo eyeball tells that. His smiles make me join him smiling. Eddies of wind blew. Like itinerant with no fixed destination; King Erodo direct his elephant timely. Pusillanimous Sandra losing interest on the journey. Outskirts, unseen animals noises heard. “Korinko gently get them down.” On foot King Erodo led. Korinko again played his flute making King Erodo smiling along. Pick-ups drove past King Erodo. “Moving vehicle? Safari park closer I see.” “Sleeping animals in cage.” “Which cage sir?” “cage that pick-up is carrying.” “Sure sir?” “perfectly sure!” Sandra had zoophobia in her. Her worry increases when Mr Adewale confirmed the pick-up that passed us was lifting a cage which animals is in. “Korinko stop. I need concentration.” King Erodo spotting every nooks and cranny. “I was there months ago. Is somewhere along here. Korinko accompany me anytime I intend coming to watch animals.” “Your majesty how I wish I followed you that day.” Our elephants steps large enough on sandy ground can become a threat for wild animals tracing everyone. “Korinko this students want something.” “This pouch carried food that is okay for your students.” “Now!” “your majesty this side is befitting for our guests.” “Allow Paul Collins, my prince to eat much.” Rush, desperations, eagerness forced me eating. Sandra sat on sandy ground refusing more food. King Erodo gist alongside Korinko his right hand henchman. “Paul Collins look up in case Orube pass, helicopter is too fast. He may had search desperately.” “Boss would unleashed his anger on Mr Stingy.” “Is he the pilot?” “for approving unqualified pilot.” “Orube is qualified. His displaying skills when bringing us to Kenya really melt me.” “Be against him. Who else to join me?” Five in number as we came, our hands up against Orube. King Erodo shook himself up, inquiring reasons for our hands up. I expresses clear anger I have against Orube. “Prince on your elephant!” I obeyed. Elephants continued from where they stopped. Maasai tribesmen in moving pick-up hailing King Erodo gallantly. Ten pick-ups carrying Maasai tribesmen coming faster stopped, welcoming King Erodo. Sandra screams joyfully. She longed to set her eyes on tamed animals. “Your majesty no ticket?” “free. No charge for a king and his followers.” Greetings made in Maasai way confirmed King Erodo’s recognition. Guides leading us by batches. King Erodo instructed Korinko to stay outside, watch over the elephants. Pick-up having a grinning Maasai driver stay in wait, ready to drive to where tamed animas are.

  “Paul Collins we are at the safari park.” It could be full reality hearing growls from tigers. Maasai guides led us in. I sat with Mr Adewale back of moving pick-up; Maasai safari park driver had already taking others in. Civets, antelopes, lions, chimpanzees, rhinoceros, cheetahs, zebras, having unstoppable funs in various homes they live. Thunderstruck to watch lions playing with lots of cubs, lioness flays defenceless tiny creatures for her cubs. Parched late aftern
oon after a strenuous boring journey on an elephants; I gravitated to full viewing location as I was accompanied by Maasai guides holding spears in readiness for any unexpected. King Erodo sat on a carried bamboo chair, his dedicated henchmen sweating simultaneously. Three Maasai guides corking their rifles as each stand side by side so that suspected animals would not pounce the old king. Maasai guides speaking lingoes, some feeding a male wounded leopard spreading out his quivering tongue. “King Erodo want me to take you to where funny animals dwelled.” I responded, climbing height of unmoved pick-up. Mr Adewale Joined in, sitting beside excited safari park pick-up driver. Fast moving pick-up stopped as the pick-up driver noticed chimpanzees throwing their babies up and catching it back. “Can I come closer?” I asked anxiously. “Watch as I carry their babies. The giant chimpanzees would shake me, I forgot bringing bunches of bananas for the little children.” Mr Adewale followed guide that brought us. Chimpanzees playing with Mr Adewale; some dipping their friendly hands in Mr Adewale pockets. My heart skipped a beat. Scene around was pure magic. I estimated hundred lonely chimpanzees rushing to have their handshake with me. A pick-up carrying Sandra, Jonathan and Michael heads to our direction. “Sir, they have joined us.” “Very good. We have to be together.” “Telescope. View farer.” “May I know you more?” “Olekorinko. Nothing more.” With calm mind he gave me telescope used for viewing unpredictable animals. “Paul Collins give me let me watch.” Sandra instructed. I chuckled, gave her Olekorinko’s telescope. Maasai guides standing by our side exchanging pleasantries with safari park driver that lifted Jonathan, Michael, Sandra to where we were. “An ambush!” Sandra screamed. “Fast, I want to watch myself!” matured lions slow and methodically forms crept across the hillside, lay in wait for unprotected tamed animals. “Olekorinko lions about rushing animals in this park!” Olekorinko whistled Maasai guides, rushing were imminent. Sounds of released bullets heard. Huge wild lions scuffled with tamed matured lions. I spotted ten deaths of safari park oversized pride. Gentle animals fleeing for safety. Recumbent approach of Maasai guides saved more lions death. Sodden terrain behind hillside helped Maasai guides in shooting five wild lions. Sensing danger they escaped with serious wounds. Telescope showing panorama passing eyes by eyes. Maasai guides with Sleight of hands protect more animals from the escaped wild lions. Brave Maasai guides slinking in case another wild animals want another death of tamed animals. “Helicopter!” Orube had traced where we are. He landed in midst of cheetahs causing panic among them because of the sharp blades. “Come faster!” as fast, we entered into the waiting helicopter. Unknowingly, King Erodo coming faster. He came face to face begging Orube to allow me live in Kenya forever. Orube refused. “Paul Collins, please!” “I am a Nigerian. I am proud to be a Nigerian. I am going back to achieve my aim of becoming a trained seaman to protect my country waterway from piracy, oil theft.” “Bye!” “thanks. Your Majesty, bye!” helicopter lift up, took us back to our college. Orube has already pleaded for mercy just for dropping us in wrong place. Mr Collins took me home, Hillary, Georgina prepared sweet meals for my arrival safely. David happy I was back. “Paul Collins, no boarding, resume your secondary class tomorrow. Rest in your room as you like.”