"Stand strong in overwhelming opposition, stand out in an overbearing situation." Chioma Onwudiwe/2020
"I've been thrown to the wolves, trapped with chickens and pushed into the snakes' pit. But I never became any of those, nor was I confused about my real identity. When I get home, you and I will know it!"
Please enjoy this beautiful excerpt, from 'The MONITORS' that amazing story by Chioma Onwudiwe/2015
Truth is indestructible, even when suppressed:
The woman cautiously perused the room and its intriguing elegance. A guard stood vigilant besides her, as they waited for her majesty the queen. The striking elegance and opulence, of the decor in the waiting area. Was simple, without being understated. The magnificence of the atmosphere, commanded attention and invited interest, without overwhelming the observer. Contrasting and blended hues, mesmerized the senses. While artistic displays, subtly elicited enigmatic translations. For all the kaleidoscopic infusion of alluring ambiance, the large room radiated warmth, comfort and an unmistakable welcome. And in that imbued warmth, this stranger found a solace that melted her initial unrest and fright. It was the guard's voice, that startled and woke her from a wonder-laced reverie.
"Her majesty the queen....," he simply announced.
The woman quickly, along with the other two occupants in the room. Bowed her head in obeisance and acknowledgement of the royal entry. But not before gazing upon the portrait of beauty, grace and much more of which she could not yet put her finger on. Hopefully, she grimaced in awe to herself. She would glean but a mite before she left this calming atmosphere.
She had heard that the queen was expecting a child. But the report, did no justice to the royal's dignified gait and fluid carriage.
"Do have a seat." She spoke with a smile, as the guard led the visiting woman to a chair situated almost at the center of the large reception room. A uniformed woman stood by and watched. Her face devoid of expression or an indication of who she might be. The visitor simply surmised that she was the queen's personal maid.
"Unfortunately, my husband the king was unable to see you earlier. But feel free to discuss with me. And be assured that it would be just as if the king had heard it."
"Thank you so very much, your majesty." Gushed the woman, bowing her head again in gratitude. As she lifted her head to speak, she was unprepared, for the eyes that flashed back at her. Causing her to flinch, howbeit momentarily. They were beautiful, free and with a tinge of mystery. Open like clean shutters, refusing to be bound by the vileness, chicanery and deceit of most that would behold.
The queen merely nodded her acceptance of gratitude, still smiling.
"Your majesty, my father a man who now lies in the throes of treachery. Woven by others and wielded with his tongue. Inspires this journey, that tells a tale of deep wizardry, uncensored in its administration and unprovoked in its motivation. He has confided and revealed to me, a wicked deed he collaborated and conspired to carry out. A falsehood that spat deadly lies, from his very mouth. Words that separated friends, divided lovers and eventually claimed innocent lives."
The queen looked on aptly. The smile was no longer there. It had been replaced, by an expression though soft was unreadable. Yet there was no frown, to behold either.
"This very deed of which he bleeds day and night, was carried out in these royal courts." She continued uninterrupted. "Yes in this kingdom indeed." The speaker emphasized, gradually feeling a rush of emotion egging her on.
The queen lifted an eyebrow, but remained silent.
"He had been sought out and paid by a magist......"
Suddenly, there was a very loud thud, crashing sound and raised voices. As if there was a commotion of sorts, brewing at the queen's courtyard. The guard stepped forward to stand in front of the queen who had not moved, as the other woman in attendance moved towards the door. Simultaneously, two more guards moved in to the room from an initially inconspicuos entrance. The queen's woman in attendance, now opened the door leading to the courtyard. While the two extra guards flanked her. She swung open the door, just in time to admit an excited Ethia. She was waving her hand vigorously, in the air. With a crying maid in tow. That one was carrying a basket of fruit, of which half were already rolling off the floor.
"I just thought I should bring some fruits for my grandson and his mother." Said the queen mother panting as she spoke.
