CONJUGATION OF BASTARDS

(A Tragedy.)

Story Developed by
Idris Adepoju-Munnis, Jr.

Written by
Fathia Ipoade
Joel Oswere
and,
Idris Adepoju-Munnis, Jr.
 Dramatis Personnae

Sinebe- Crown Prince of Umuoji.

Ihunanya- Princess of Obiakpu and only daughter of King Aguadi.
Nzeogwu- Prince of Umuoji, Sinebe's halfbrother.
Aguadi- King of Obiakpu, father to Ihunanya
Maduka- King of Umuoji, father to Sinebe and Nzeogwu.
Ona- Queen of Obiakpu, Ihunanya's mother.
Oluchi- Queen of Umuoji, mother to Nzeogwu, Sinebe's stepmother.
Kanayo- Afamefuna’s father, Aguadi's in-law to be.
Afamefuna- Kanayo's son, Ihunanya's husband to be.
Emeka- Sinebe's friend, Warrior.
Azubuike- Sinebe's friend, Warrior.
Narrator
Elders
Head Guard
Guards
Maidens
Townspeople

ACT 1 SCENE 1

(The stage is dark. Lights come on slowly to reveal the NARRATOR in his igbo attire. He clears
his throat and speaks.)

NARRATOR: I'm a storyteller. From the lost part of history, the unknown future and the
uncertainty of your present. Today, I tell the story of two kingdoms. A tale of greed and
covetousness. He who has ears should listen.
(Clears his throat.)
Before the pale men from across the great seas invaded our lands with their cannons and guns,
we were the commanders of our destiny, the Messiahs of our time.
Drawing swords and plunging lands,
saving history and earning victory.
(Heaves a sigh.)
Hmmmm. Ages ago, Obiakpu and Umuoji were sister-kingdoms until a piece of land tore them
apart. This land was said to be blessed by the strong and most powerful god, IKENGA, so it was
very coveted. Gold, diamonds and many other precious stones were said to be seen flowing
occasionally amongst the river that runs through Obiakpu and Umuoji.

(The lights slowly dim, four men sitting opposite each other are vehemently arguing. This is a
mime.)

This caused an argument between the two Kingdoms.

(They argue more, two of the men stand, each one on opposite sides. The one on the left
strikes the other, the other chief falls and dies, the narrator looks back and continues his story).

Greed and Anger, a factor of hatred. The two kingdoms who used to be brothers strike one
another down, all for a piece of land that never belonged to any of them.
And so the fueding starts, the Kingdoms fought, slaughtered and took each other's lives. Each
kingdom dished out different narratives of how the land came to be theirs. In the eye of
Obiakpu, umuoji is the betrayer. Umuoji, too, viewed Obiakpu as a murderous and bloodthirsty
land. And since then it has been from a battle to another, the villagers flee for their lives, some
stayed to protect their loved ones, few months and years passed and no war or battle form both
sides. Like a crouching Tiger, both Kingdom anticipated an attack. And like a thief in the night,
the umuoji warriors came, unlike a thief, they appeared when the sun is high up in the sky.

(The stage goes dark and slowly the noise of people fills the stage. Obiakpu people are on
stage and it looks like a regular marketplace, stage business is going on. IHUNANYA haggles
with a market woman, her maids and guards stand behind her.
Umuoji warriors chant warsongs, it is a guerilla attack. NZEOGWU leads the warriors as they
converge on stage.
The people of Obiakpu on hearing the chants express fear and disdain, although the most
prominent expression is fear as they have been caught off guard.They try scrambling for safety,
Nzeogwu signals attack for the warriors and the fight for survival starts. This is a mime, there's a
rhythmic drum playing all through the war scene. The Umuoji warriors drag some commoners
off the stage brutally by their clothes. Some Obiakpu male try fighting back which results to
death, Ihunanya is engaged in a brawl with Nzeogwu. a warrior hits an unsuspecting Ihunanya
on the back of her head with a stick. She collapses to the ground. Nzeogwu picks her up and
exits the stage, with the rest of Umuoji warriors.
The narrator creeps onto the stage as he absconded when the marauders arrived, he looks
around as if he was hiding from the danger that occured before him. He looks left and right
before moving to the centrestage. He clears his throat and readjusts his cap.)

NARRATOR: (Panting.) Now, who's ready for a love story. Amidst these troubles and war, a
love story is set to bloom. Would it end well? Hmmmm, time. Time will tell.
Till then.

(Lights fade.)

(Lights come back on slowly to show the palace of MADUKA, King of Umuoji, who is seated on
his throne, accompanied by his wife, OLUCHI. Enter the Head Guard who genuflects.)

HEAD GUARD: Your highness, Prince Nzeogwu…

MADUKA: Does he need an invitation to enter his father's own palace?

(Head Guard nods in the negative.)

MADUKA: Then you know what to do.

HEAD GUARD: Yes, your highness.

(He curtsies and exits.)

OLUCHI: Our troops are back aren't they?

MADUKA:Yes, and I fear that your son has yet another…

(Ihunanya yells and curses loudly offstage. She hangs off Nzeogwu's shoulder, hitting his back
and wriggling. Nzeogwu drops her and she lands with a thud. All the while Oluchi and MADUKA
stare at the fuming young and beautiful maiden.)

NZEOGWU: (Curtsies.) Greetings father.

IHUNANYA: (Angrily, she sits up and tries standing up but couldn't as her hands and legs are
tied.) I guess your mother never taught you how to treat a woman, you ogre-like brute.
(Chuckles condescendingly.) Well, what do I expect from a dirty barbarian like yourself? You
Umuoji men are beasts, you wild animals!. Tufia!
(She spits in Nzeogwu’s direction.)

NZEOGWU: (Holds her firmly by the jaw) I will teach you a lesson. (Drags her up to her feet.)
MADUKA: HALT!! (Nzeogwu stops.) So you're the infamous Princess of Obiakpu. The apple of
Aguadi's eyes. Treasure of the gods; they call you, isn't it so? (He laughs sardonically.) I didn't
expect the so-called treasure of Obiakpu to be nothing but a loose mouthed parrot with no grace
of royalty. I see that you have no royal training in you, and I'm sure your father wouldn't mind us
keeping you here as a slave, or… (He eyes her condescendingly) a mistress for my warrior son.
The one who has you. (Nzeogwu presses tightly into Ihunaya's arm making her grunt, she
stares into Maduka eyes with so much hatred.) Your people will pay for pillaging my land and
trying to steal what belonged to my forefathers. Till then, you'll remain in our custody. Take her
away. (Ihunanya struggles and yells, she stomps on Nzeogwu's feet, making him lose balance,
he releases her and she draws out his sword and points it at Maduka, she presses it on his
chest. Nzeogwu moves to subdue her.)

IHUNANYA: (To Nzeogwu) If you move one more inch, I'll shove this sword right into his guts
and rearrange it! I'd rather die fighting you than let you ruin my father's image. (She presses the
sword deeper and deeper, Maduka stares at her then laughs) Now you will order your son to…
(The Head Guard knocks the sword out of Ihunanya's hand in the nick of time. Nzeogwu grabs
her and she struggles, breathing heavily.)

MADUKA: I don't know if I should call you brave or stupid, drawing a sword and threatening a
King. It seems you'd like for your head to be amputated off your pretty neck. (A soldier gives a
piece of cloth to the king, he collects it and gently wipes his neck.)
Starve her and make sure she doesn't have anything to drink, not even a drop of rain water. (He
sits on his throne and waves Nzeogwu away, Ihunanya's screams fade away as Nzeogwu
carries her backstage.)

(Lights fade.)

ACT 1 SCENE 2

(SINEBE, the confident and handsome crown prince of Umuoji, saunters on the stage with his
two friends, laughing. some royal maids, going about their business, they bow when they see
him, some of the girls blush and giggle as they walk past him, greeting him. He smiles at each
of the maids answering them politely. A fair skinned maid greets Sinebe which makes the three
friends halt their movements)

MAID 1: (Holding a basket of clothes under her armpit. She bows coyly, smiling to herself.)
Good morning my prince. (She remains on her knees)

SINEBE: Rise. Good morning to you too, damsel. (The maid giggles and runs off with her fellow
maids, EMEKA, one of Sinebe's friends stares at the fair skinned maid who had just greeted
Sinebe. He looks at her then shakes his head. He gently elbows Sinebe's side.)

EMEKA: You're not obliged to answer their greetings, you know that right? (The second friend,
AZUBUIKE bursts out laughing)
AZUBUIKE: Emeka, come on. Just because Ngozi has avoided you like a plague for the past
few moons, doesn't mean you should envy her giving our handsome prince here attention.

EMEKA: Tufiakwa! Me? Pine over a lowly maid's affection? The gods of our land forbid it, I
would never be envious of our crown prince. He is the most handsome in the land, our very own
future king. I'm only concerned for our prince, I do not want him to fall into the trap that lowly girl
might have set for him. (He places his hand on Sinebe's shoulder.) I saw the way she was
smiling sheepishly when my prince answered her and even gave her a compliment. These
slaves are sneaky and dangerous. It is why they are kept at arm's length. I hope you know I'm
just looking for you.

SINEBE: I know, there's no need for you both to worry.

AZUBUIKE: Look, it's alright. Just admit you like Ngozi, no one will have your head here. We
both care for the prince. There's no need to use that as an excuse to cover up that you actually
like the fair maiden.

EMEKA: Azubuike you need to get a handle on your mouth before I….

SINEBE: ENOUGH!!!!! The both of you! Can't you just… (pauses to listen to the quiet sobbing
and singing, he strains his ear.)
Can you hear it? (Strains his ear again)

EMEKA/AZUBUIKE: (Look at each other.) Hear what?? (There is confusion in the air.)

(Ihunanya and the chorus sing a low tuned elegy. The chorus are seated amongst the
audience, she sings while her tears flow. The song rises. A look of realization crosses Emeka
and Azubuike. Sinebe looks around to find the source of the singing.)

EMEKA AND AZUBUIKE: (To each other.) Can you hear it now?

EMEKA: (Yells) who goes there? (The trio walks towards the place Ihunanya is kept. The
sobbing continues and the singing is louder. The trio sights Ihunaya bundled up in a corner,
Sinebe moves closer to Ihunaya and squats looking concerned.)

SINEBE: Who are you, and what is your name?

IHUNANYA: (Still sobbing.) Why are you interrogating me? What business do I have with you
that you ask for my name? (Aside, with sarcasm.) Asking me foolish questions.

AZUBUIKE: She must be one of the captives from Obiakpu.

SINEBE: She must be a princess. (Looks cognitively at her left wrist.) She is wearing royal
beads. (To Ihunanya) You must be Ihunaya then, the pride of Obiakpu, the only daughter of
Aguadi, or am I mistaken?

IHUNANYA: (In anger.) The gods have your tongue if you dare take my father's name again!

EMEKA: (Fumes.) How dare you talk to the prince of Umuoji like that?!

IHUNANYA: (Disgusted.) O-oo, no wonder. You are one of those royal pigs. I sensed it.

EMEKA: Shut your mouth, do not dare to raise your voice at nobles like us.

IHUNANYA: (Giggles.) Who are nobles here? You?

AZUBUIKE: And you still speak?

IHUNANYA: Yes, what are you going to do about it?

(Emeka moves to hit Ihunanya as Sinebe obstructs him.)

IHUNANYA: You see, all men in Umuoji are pigs, pigs I say! You uncouth idiot, you wanted to
hit me! You all are cursed in this land. Cursed, I say!

SINEBE: (Looks intently into Ihunanya's eyes) As a woman, you should be gentle. I can't
believe you are a royal. You are so uncultured.

IHUNANYA: (Mimics Sinebe, mockingly.) “As a woman, you should be more gentle.” (Hisses.)
What all men of Umuoji can do is hit and abuse women, you are not strong. If you were strong
men, you wouldn't have spent so long in this struggle with Obiakpu. ndị ikom na-abaghị uru
(Hisses again.) The best your kingdom could do is kidnap a woman (She laughs heartily.)

SINEBE: Don't push me to anger woman!

IHUNANYA: Am I not telling the truth?

SINEBE: Can't you keep shut?

IHUNANYA: Mba.

SINEBE: Woman! You don't know how to behave

IHUNANYA: Stop calling me woman, am I your wife? Call me by my name.

SINEBE: You don't deserve that name. You bearing that name is a complete joke. Your parents
made a mistake giving you that name. I will keep on calling you woman. (Emeka and Azubuike
giggle.)

SINEBE: So you can't talk again? Wo-man. (Ihunanya and Sinebe stare into each other's eyes,
Sinebe chuckles.) I thought as much. (To Emeka and Azubuike) I think we have finally shut the
flower of Obiakpu up, let's go. We have far more important things to do than to waste our time
with this woman.

(Emeka, Azubuike and Sinebe exit the stage walking majestically)

(In the Palace of Umuoji, in the throne room, King Maduka and four elders are seated; two
bodyguards are standing upright at the right and left side of the king's throne. There is a heated
argument between the elders.)

ELDER 1: To humiliate Aguadi let's make Ihunanya a slave. We can sell her.

ELDER 2: (To Elder 1) After all the things Obiakpu did to our people. (Pauses) Left to me I will
have Ihunanya killed.

ELDER 3: Haa, that's too far.

ELDER 2: (To Elder 3) what's too far there?

ELDER 4: I suggest we keep Ihunaya hostage for the meantime so Obiakpu can cease fire.

ELDER 3: Exactly! This war is getting out of hand. Is that not so? Are we not tired of this war?
Ihunanya is Aguadi's only daughter, he will do anything for her, except she is a bastard. Let us
seize this opportunity and end this war once and for all.

ELDER 1: Yes, that is a good idea. Considering the fact that our arsenal is depleting drastically
because of this war. We have lost a lot of men too. We need to be cautious at this critical time. If
we continue like this, we will lose everything to Obiakpu.

ELDER 2: So the point now is Ihunanya is the only way to stop this war?

ELDER 4: Precisely.

MADUKA: I am glad that we all think with our heads here. We will use Ihunanya to end this war
once and for all. This war will end.

ALL ELDERS: Igwe!!!

(Exit Maduka and his two guards.)

(Lights fade.)

ACT 1 SCENE 3

(On stage is Maduka and two guards in the throne room. Nzeogwu walks in)

NZEOGWU: Nna, ekene m gi.

MADUKA: Welcome my son, the lion-cub of Umuoji. Have your seat my son. (Points to one of
the stools at his right side.)

NZEOGWU: Thank you my father. (Sits on the stool.) Father you sent for me, you said it is a
matter of urgency.

MADUKA: Yes, there is something that you need to know. We are going to keep Ihunanya
alive, holding Ihunanya hostage so as to end this war.

NZEOGWU: I don't understand father.

MADUKA: (Clears throat.) I and the Chiefs gathered to discuss this matter on ground. After
some time, we all agreed to make Ihunanya the key that will end this war for good. Ihunanya is
the only daughter of Aguadi, he will do anything for her. So the plan is to hold her hostage and
demand that Aguadi ends the war as ransom.

NZEOGWU: Father?

MADUKA: Do you have dust in your ears? Are you deaf suddenly?

NZEOGWU: I am just surprised. (Pauses.) We cannot allow Ihunanya to live no matter what.
She is from Obiakpu, and Obiakpu is our enemy. She should die. We should kill her.

MADUKA: I understand your point, but this time we really need to think and rethink our
strategies. We don't use our bottoms to think, we use our heads son. So let's behave like people
that use the head to think. We have lost a lot in this war, my people have died, soldiers have
died, we have lost a lot. What happens if Obiakpu strike back, which they will. (Nzeogwu is
silent.) I have your answer. We will not be able to stand the attack because our weaponry is
weak. Do not let hotheadedness cloud your sense of judgment.

NZEOGWU: (In anger.) I don't care father, she must die. She is from Obiakpu. She must die. I
can't believe...
MADUKA: (Authoritatively.) Mechie ọnụ, nwa nzuzu!! You are my son and subject, I am the
King and your father so I'm not telling you or suggesting you. I'm commanding you. IT. IS. AN.
ORDER!!!
Now leave, you're no longer needed.
(Nzeogwu hesitates and stares covetously at the throne.)
Have you gone deaf? (Nzeogwu bows and leaves)

(Lights fade.)

(Lights come on to reveal Ihunanya on stage sitting on the floor. Her legs and hands are tied.
Sinebe comes on stage with a small calabash with water in it and udala fruit)

SINEBE: Greetings, woman. I hope you are hungry, I brought you food.

(Ihunanya scoffs, ignores Sinebe and hisses, Sinebe places the small calabash and udala fruit
on the ground, he then sits on the ground)

SINEBE: (Grins.) Are you still annoyed?

IHUNANYA: Why are you bringing me something to eat? Do you want to poison me? Is that the
new…

SINEBE: We aren't that cowardly to poison you, woman! Argh! (Brief silence.) Look, I am only
being humane, I just thought you needed something to eat.

IHUNANYA: (Sarcastic.) Thank you very much… my prince… I don't need your food. I am fine.

SINEBE: You would rather starve?

IHUNANYA: It is better I starve myself than to eat that poison you call food. (Pointing to the
water and udala fruit.)

SINEBE: (Softly) Ihunanya, the guards said you have not eaten anything since. You really need
to eat something.

IHUNANYA: (Giggles) You just called me by my name? The gods be praised!

SINEBE: That is not the point. You really need to eat something.

IHUNANYA: I am not eating your poison. You all want to kill me.

SINEBE: Kill you?

IHUNANYA: Yes, is that not so? Your father, the King wants me dead.

SINEBE: Look woman, if he wanted you dead, he would have told the guards to kill you
immediately.

(Ihunanya looks at Sinebe with surprise in her eyes.)

SINEBE: You are surprised? (Chuckles.)

Look, for you to be alive till now means you are not going to get killed by anyone here. We are
enemies but my father is an honorable man, and as disrespectful as you've been, he's been
merciful to even feed you. (Ihunanya eyes him and hisses.) Look, I know you hate us but,
(Moves the calabash and udala fruit closer to Ihunanya.) (Softly) please eat. (She turns her
back. He is frustrated.)
FINE!!! Don't eat. But know one thing: we are not going to harm you. (Walks away in anger
Ihunanya ponders and soliloquizes)

IHUNAYA: So that was the plan. It was to use me to end this generational war. (Sighs and
reluctantly eats the fruit and drinks the water, the lights dim and the narrator walks in
graciously.)

NARRATOR: Well, it looks like the jewel of Obiakpu is now reduced to a hostage. (Sighs). I can
see the red sky looming over the kingdoms, the rivers are rippling from the sounds of victory
and rebellion. This time a bloodier, heart wrenching and blood curdling battle shall be set in
motion, and the star-crossed lovers? Doom awaits the door. (He leaves silently backstage.
Ihunanya continues eating her fruit)

ACT 1 SCENE 4

(Obiakpu kingdom; in the Palace of the King AGUADI. In the throne room Aguadi and his wife
ONA are seated)

AGUADI: (Staring blankly into the audience.) The people are grieving, they are grieving bitterly
because of the attack at the market square. (Pauses.) Eye witnesses say that Ihunaya was
abducted on the day of the attack.

ONA: (Concern.) Chimo (pauses) so the people of Umuoji kidnapped my daughter. Heiiiii!

AGUADI: We must keep this secret. No one outside these palace walls must know about this.

ONA: What about the eye witnesses?

AGUADI: Luckily the eye witnesses are palace guards, everyone was too busy running for their
lives when she was taken.
ONA: Hmm, as you please, your highness. (pauses) We must get our daughter back by all
means.

AGUADI: My love, She is my daughter. So I will make sure we get her back.

ONA: What about Afamefuna and his family? Should they know?

AGUADI: No, not all. They must not know. Let this secret maintain its place within this little
circle.

ONA: But Ihunanya and Afamefuna are supposed to get married in eight days. How are we
going to go about this? (Panicking.)

AGUADI: I will send spies to Umuoji so as to find where they are holding Ihunanya captive.

ONA: I pray for the mercy of Ala, hmmm.

(A palace guard walks in, goes on a knee as he bows his head.)

PALACE GUARD: Igwe! Afamefuna and his family are here.

(Ona looks at Aguadi, she looks unsettled)

AGUADI: Talk of the devil. Let them in.

PALACE GUARD: Yes, your highness.

(The palace guard walks out briskly. After a while, the Palace guard comes in with Afamefuna,
Kanayo and Nkechi, they exchange pleasantries as they take their seats/stools)

NKECHI: My queen, you are looking beautiful as ever. Your skin is so radiant.

ONA: Thank you my in-law, you are not looking bad yourself.

(Everyone laughs)

KANAYO: My queen, I take good care of Nkechi. She is a woman, I must pamper her. She is
looking good because of the pampering. (everyone laughs)

AGUADI: Eziokwu. You have spoken well. Women should be pampered. (Everyone laughs.
Afamefuna clears his throat as if giving a signal to his father)

KANAYO: My King, there is a reason we are here.

AGUADI: Okay, what reason?

KANAYO: (clears throat) (smiling) We are here to greet our wife. You see, my king, Afamefuna
has disturbed and pleaded with us to allow him have a word with his wife to be. I know they are
to stay away from each other till marriage but I dare to plead that the soon to be bride and
groom have a word with each other. Our son has desperately fallen for the princess. (He smiles
patting Afamefuna on his back. They both smile expectantly. Ona moves uneasily on her seat)

AGUADI: You see, Ihunanya is not feeling too well, because of this she is with her aunt, my
wife's immediate sister. You know my wife's sister is adept in the use of herbs. Currently the
princess is recuperating at the outskirts of the kingdom.

AFAMEFUNA: (Concerned and a bit angry.) I hope she's well and fine by now.

KANAYO: (Concerned) I am so sorry, your highness.

NKECHI: I hope she gets well soon.

ONA: Don't worry my in-laws. She will get better soon just in time before the wedding. I know
Afamefuna is eager to take his bride home. (Everyone laughs.) Is it not true? (To Afamefuna.)
Afamefun be rest assured, okay.

AFAMEFUNA: Okay, your highness.

KANAYO: (chuckles) Your highness (bows) with your permission, we beg to take your leave.

AGUADI: You have my blessings.

KANAYO: (still bowing) Thank you my King. (Rises) Igwe! Let us be on our way then.

(Kanayo, Afamefuna and Nkechi rise and exit. Ona sighs heavily.)

(Lights fade.)

(Nightfall; outside Aguadi's palace, Aguadi is standing looking up blankly, Nzeogwu disguised
as a messenger rushes in catching Aguadi unawares)

AGUADI: Who are you? (Stands up and his hands on his swords ready to strike.)

NZEOGWU: I came with something important.

AGUADI: What?
(Nzeogwu brings out a cloth and udala fruits showing Aguadi, Aguadi recognizes the cloth; it's
Ihunaya's.)

AGUADI: What? (Yells) Guards? Where are the guards? seize this man!

(Nzeogwu rushes out, leaving the cloth and Udala fruit on the floor. The guards rush after him.
Aguadi bends down to pick the cloth and the fruit)

AGUADI: (Looks at the cloth) My eyes does not deceive me. This is Ihunanya's clothing. (Looks
at the udala fruit) This is it. I know where to find Ihunanya now. This fruit is only grown in
Maduka's palace. It only makes sense that she is kept there. (Pauses, the guards rush back in.)

GUARD 1: (he kneels on one knee and bows, his partner does the same.) We lost the intruder,
forgive us your majesty. (Bows deeply)

AGUADI: Useless. (he hisses)

First thing tomorrow, two of you and another two of you will get me my daughter from Umuoji. I
don't care if you die, you get me my daughter. Inugo kwa?

GUARD 1&2: Yes your highness. (They keep bowing)

AGUADI: Get out! (The guards leave. Aguadi remains on his feet holding the piece of fabric)

(Lights fade.)

ACT 1 SCENE 5

(Ihunanya and Sinebe are on stage sitting on the floor talking to each other , this time Ihunanya
is not tied with any rope. They are obviously smiling and enjoying the conversation)

IHUNANYA: I never knew Umuoji men have tender sides to their brutish nature. (Giggles)

SINEBE: I never knew you had a feminine side too (smirks)

IHUNANYA: (chuckles) I guess we are both guilty of one thing. In my defense I was protecting
myself.

SINEBE: From what exactly? You're protecting yourself by drawing a sword to the King and
almost stabbing him with it. That is treason punishable by death. But, (he looks at her
admiringly.) here we are. Whatever pushed you to make that move?

IHUNANYA: The moment the King sent that brute of a prince. (Sinebe burst out laughing
uncontrollably)
SINEBE: (Stops laughing and clears his throat) Sorry. please continue.

IHUNANYA: (rolls her eyes) Your father wanted to give me out to your brother as a mistress, no
less of akwunakwuna. (SINEBE gasps.) Look, when all is said and done we're still enemies
Sinebe, and I'd rather die than be stripped of my pride as a woman and the princess of Obiakpu.

SINEBE: I know my father has done some things but you must know this is because he
considers you an enemy. No matter how harmless you look.

IHUNANYA: Harmless, you say?

SINEBE: Okayyyy, maybe not harmless. But you could have tried bargaining, drawing out a
sword would have gotten you a big reward, death. You're lucky you have royal blood flowing
through you…..(Ihunaya gives him a sly smirk. Looking at him) You drew out the sword on
purpose didn't you, you wanted my father to strike you down!!!!
You're one crazy princess.

IHUNANYA: I thought he would be like other kings, egoistic and prideful. A woman drawing a
sword to him is a heinous offence, punishable by capital punishment immediately but he
asserted patience. I guess your father doesn't want to risk another war which ruined my plans
as I was ready to die in honour, but your father gave me a worse punishment that would taint
my reputation. I'm a woman who has been held captive by a male warrior for days. Tongues
would be wagging already.

SINEBE: You have no one to blame but yourself for that.

IHUNANYA: How? (Confused and angry)

SINEBE: Your loose mouth and brash attitude caused it. You didn't think your plan through and
you just threw yourself in the face of danger. You should know that the moment you were
kidnapped instead of being killed or sold off, the king wants something to do with you and it
does not involve marring or taking your life.

IHUNANYA: (Frowns) You are insulting me again.

SINEBE: I'm sorry if it came out that way. But you should have at least thought things through.
What if something worse had happened to you.

IHUNANYA: How do you expect me to even have time to think? I just acted purely on my
instinct. You can't fault me for wanting to protect my royal name. And thank you for caring, my
prince. As you can see, I'm fine.

SINEBE: You were lucky enough, my father had mercy on you.

IHUNANYA: (still frowning, muttering) Never asked for his mercy.

SINEBE: (exclaims) IHUNANYA!!!!!

IHUNANYA: (shouts) What?! Biko, stop calling me. Wait a minute, did you just call me by my
name? (She looks at him and the two burst out laughing. They'll stop for a minute then continue
laughing)

SINEBE: (Taking short fast breaths) Why are we even laughing?

IHUNANYA: I don't know (stops laughing)

I am glad that you come to visit me regularly. I don't feel alone anymore. Thank you for telling
the guards to untie the ropes that bounded my arms and legs. (Smiles)

SINEBE: It's fine. Come closer let me tell you a secret. (Ihunanya moves closer and he
whispers something into her ear).

IHUNANYA: (surprised) Really?

SINEBE: Yes, now we're waiting for your father to come here and demand you and all these
can end.

IHUNANYA: How sure are you?

SINEBE: My father hides nothing from me. (With pride) I'm the heir apparent to the throne.

IHUNANYA: But I am still held captive here. I am tired. I really need to go home. (Pauses) I am
supposed to get married in seven days.

SINEBE: what?

IHUNANYA: Yes, I am getting married in seven days. But this kidnap will deter it.

SINEBE: Amazing, who is the lucky man?

IHUNANYA: (rolls her eyes) That is not the point. This marriage is important to me and my
family. I have to marry the man because of tradition. (Sinebe raises his eyebrow pushing her to
continue) Fine, you gossip. (Sinebe laughs) His name is Afamefuna, my father wants me to
marry him because his family is influential. Left to me, I won't marry him because I don't love
him.

(Ihunaya looks disturbed. Sinebe moves closer to Ihunaya, he looks concerned as he pats her
back)
SINEBE: I might not understand how important this marriage is to you but, don't worry
everything will be fine.

(Nzeogwu walks in)

NZEOGWU: (visibly disgusted) What are you doing here? (He eyes Ihunanya, Ihunaya
reciprocates by giving Nzeogwu a dirty look too, turns to Sinebe) I see you've made a friend out
of an enemy. (Shakes his head) I have something important to discuss with you, Sinebe. if you
don't mind (sarcastic) my princess.

(Sinebe slowly rises up and looks at Ihunanya, they both smile at each other, ihunanya gives
Nzeogwu another dirty look. Sinebe and Nzeogwu leave Ihunanya)

NZEOGWU: Are you oblivious or you're just plain naive? Do you not know that girl is our
enemy? (Sinebe shows dissatisfaction.) Oh, or you have been swooned. Don't be a fool,
Sinebe. Don't let her fool you.

SINEBE: Fool me?

NZEOGWU: Yes, she's using you, THINK! Use your head. She wants to escape so she is using
you.

SINEBE: Whatever is between myself and Ihunanya is none of your business. I think it's high
time you talk to me with respect, I'm your crown prince. (moves closer to Nzeogwu) Stepbrother
or not, we are not equals. I'm the soon to be king, as chosen by the gods and accepted by the
people of this land.

(Sinebe walks out annoyed, Nzeogwu stays behind clenching his fists and gnashing his teeth.
He goes back to Ihunanya.)

NZEOGWU: Listen here, you little piece of excrement. (Ihunanya stands and tries hitting him.
Nzeogwu holds her hand) I'm not fooled by your intrigues. Those little flutters of your eyes won't
move me. I'm not dead in the brain like the pathetic excuse we all call the crown prince. Now
listen carefully, I'll have you dead faster than lightning if you dare try anything funny. (Pushes
her away, Ihunanya falls and deadly stares at him.) GUARDS!!!!!! (Two guards rush in.) Tie her
up and starve her. (Ihunanya laughs hard, Nzeogwu loses his composure.) Just get this thing
out of my sight! (They pull Ihunanya up and take her backstage roughly.)

(Lights fade.)

ACT 1 SCENE 6
(Night. Ihunanya's prison; a bodyguard stands at the entrance of the prison. Suddenly four
warriors from Obiakpu appear, one of the warriors strangle the bodyguard’s neck. The
bodyguard struggles but he is subdued, he loses consciousness.)

(Ihunanya is on stage sleeping. The four warriors come on stage, they walk as if they are
sneaking in. They move to where Ihunanya is. One of the warriors tap Ihunanya gently to wake
her up, she wakes up, surprised.)

(Sinebe walks in)

SINEBE: Hey!

(In an attempt to stop the warriors from their rescue mission he brawls with the warriors
choreographically. Sinebe brawls with the warriors alone, he is losing. Ihunanya is visibly
disturbed. Nzeogwu stands where he isn't unnoticed. He watches from a distance, with a blank
face
After moments of brawling Sinebe is fatally injured. Ihunaya and Sinebe’s eyes meet. The
chorus harmonizes a sad tune to set the mood. One of the warriors immediately picks up
Ihunanya and places her on his shoulder. The rescue mission is successful. Nzeogwu leaves
quietly but unknown to him, Sinebe, half conscious, sees him. Nzeogwu turns his back on
Sinebe who raises his hand trying to ask for help and walks away.. A few moments later, A
guard comes on stage and sees Sinebe bleeding profusely.)

BODYGUARD: My prince (yells) My prince! Chiwetalu! Edozie!

(Two other guards rush in to help the first guard carry Sinebe as they both exit the stage.)

(Lights fade.)

FADE IN

In two straight lines, five men on each line, there is murmur and incomprehensible talk, they
hush immediately they see Nzeogwu approaching. Among them is Sinebe's friend, One of the
men rush to get a stool for Nzeogwu, which he sets down. Nzeogwu sits and signals for them to
speak.

EMEKA: Your majesty, we all got your signal to ceasefire on the Obiakpu spies.

NZEOGWU: Plans have definitely changed. Ikenna.

IKENNA: Yes, my prince.

NZEOGWU: Your majesty! (Everyone shudders.) Emeka.

EMEKA: Yes, your majesty.

NZEOGWU: Have you gathered all the necessary information?

EMEKA/IKENNA: Yes, your majesty.

NZEOGWU: Let's hear it.

EMEKA: Ihunanya is to get married six days from now and your uncle, Mazi Abaeze is on his
way from Idoha. Ihunaya's father,… (Ikenna cuts in)

IKENNA: We discovered something very strange, your majesty.

NZEOGWU: (Sits up.) And that is?

IKENNA: Aguadi, the King of Obiakpu, Ihunanya's father plans on making his daughter's son
the regent and after Ihunanya's first son is of age, he will take the throne. This was planned In
secrecy.

NZEOGWU: (surprised) That is impossible. The crown does not only belong to a family. Unlike
our kingdom, Obiakpu's kings are carefully chosen and selected and Aguadi's tenure is almost
over. (To Ikenna) Elaborate further.

IKENNA: Aguadi has been conniving with Kanayo, his distant half brother and soon-to-be in-
law…

NZEOGWU: (Cuts in) WHAT!!!!! Kanayo, Ihunaya's father-in-law is also her uncle? How?
Aguadi wants to marry his only daughter to her own cousin. How disgusting. Alu! (Spits in
distaste.)

IKENNA: That is not all my lord. The reason why Aguadi wants them to marry was just so that
Kanayo would use his wealth and influence to convince the elders to give the crown to his son,
Afamefuna.

NZEOGWU: (bursts out laughing) Oh, what a crook Aguadi is. He wants the kingship and crown
to remain in his family but why would we commit such abomination. Ihunanya is his only flesh
and blood. (ponders).

EMEKA: But what if ihunaya is not related to Aguadi. (Everyone on stage gasps, stage
business. Murmurs and whispers. EMEKA calms them down. Nzeogwu smiles sinisterly.)
Warriors, this is just an assumption. I am as confused as you all are. Why would Aguadi marry
his only daughter to the child of his own brother. And how come Ona is unable to recognise her
own brother-in-law.
IKENNA: Kanayo and Aguadi are from the same father but different mothers and Kanayo is the
last child of his father's Twenty-Four children. I made my findings, going as far as going to Aku,
the town Kanayo's mother ran to, when he was still wet behind the ears. There was no way for
Ona to recognise Kanayo as family but AguadiI did. Which I also find so strange.

NZEOGWU: You have all done well. I need you to dig deeper into Aguadi’s life, I want
everything you can find about him. Even what he eats and drinks before sleeping. The two
kingdoms will be ours. Disperse, and never should anything we do here be known to the
uninitiated. We are bound by oath and blood.

ALL SOLDIERS: Bound in oath and blood! (They all exit the stage.)

(Lights fade.)

ACT 2 SCENE 1

(In Obiakpu’s throne room, Aguadi and Ona are on stage. The warriors come in with Ihunanya.
Aguadi and Ona’s expressions shows their delight and happiness. Ihunanya is not happy.)

ONA: (Hugs Ihunanya tightly.) My daughter, I thank the gods you are in one piece. Nwa m.
(smiles and hugs Ihunanya)

AGUADI: (Holds Ihunanya's hands) The gods be praised.

ONA: Yes, may the gods be praised.

(Aguadi gives a signal to the warriors, the warriors exit)

AGUADI: (sighs) Finally, now you are here just in time for your marriage ceremony which is no
time. (looks at Ihunanya intently) It seems you are not happy. You have not said anything. Are
you not happy?

IHUNANYA: (smiles) I am happy father. Ala be praised for setting me free from captivity.

AGUADI: (smiles) Yes Ala be praised. (Yells) Maidens!

(Two maidens comes on stage bowing their heads)

AGUADI: Take Ihunanya in, take care of her.

MAIDENS: Yes your highness.

(The maids and Ihunanya exits the stage)

ONA: She is sad, her countenance isn't that of a happy person. (pauses.)

AGUADI: I observed it too.

(Lights fade.)

(Lights come on to show Ihunanya and a maid on stage. Ihunanya is seated on a stool as one
of the maid plaits her hair, the second one presses her feet.)

IHUNANYA: (sighs) Do you think marrying who my parents want me to marry is a good
decision? I don't think I want to marry Afamefuna, I don't even like him not to talk of love him.

MAID 1: You have to obey your parents.

IHUNANYA: To the detriment of my own happiness? (Pauses.) Everyone knows Afamefuna is a

promiscuous person. He moves from one woman to the other. With that kind of character, he
can't be faithful in our marriage.

MAID 2: My princess, you don't need to find excuses at this time and moreover, he is a man. He
is simply trying to expand his lineage. It is his duty to have as many mistresses as possible.

IHUNANYA: (sighs) Why are the people so against what a woman wants? Why does our worth
have to be tied to a man's valour? The heavens are so cruel to me. (To herself) I-I think I'm in
love with another…

(Ona walks in, she gives a signal to the maids. The maids excuse them.)

MAIDS: Your majesty.

(They exit.)

ONA: Ada m mara mma. (smiles)

IHUNANYA: Yes Nne.

ONA: You look pale and unhappy. What is the matter?

IHUNANYA: Nothing, your majesty.

ONA: Talk to me. (pauses) I am your mother, I know when you are not happy. Tell me the truth.

(Ihunanya keeps mute)

ONA: Talk to me. (gently)

IHUNANYA: (sighs) I don't love Afamefuna, I don't want to marry him.

ONA: (looks confused) Why?

IHUNANYA: He is not faithful. Look how many mistresses he has already and yet (pauses) he
is not even married.

ONA: (Smiles) Ihunanya.

IHUNANYA: Nne.

ONA: You should know that Afamefuna is a man and he is not obliged to be faithful to you. And
having mistresses is not as bad, in fact it is normal for a healthy man. Look how many sons he
has in his compound, he would bless you with his seeds and give you all a woman wants.
Although, having mistresses before marriage is uncommon, his wealth excuses him of all things,
(Pauses) I know you very well Ihunanya. Be sincere with me, why don't you want to marry
Afamefuna?

IHUNANYA: (looks into Ona's eyes) I think I'm in love with someone else.

ONA: Who?

IHUNANYA: (looks down) You won't be happy. You will be very angry at me.

ONA: No I won't, I promise. Tell me, my daughter.

IHUNANYA: I think I love Sinebe.

ONA: Sinebe? (Confused)

(Ona pauses as she is surprised)

ONA: You mean the prince of Umuoji? Our enemy?

(Ihunaya nods.)

ONA: Ihunanya! Why would you ever love Sinebe? How? When? Are you under some kind of
love spell?

IHUNANYA: He is different from other men, mother. He is very special, he makes me feel
special.

ONA: ị ga-emechi ọnụ! Special kwa.

IHUNANYA: Yes mother.

ONA: Sinebe is our enemy, they kidnapped you! WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU?!

IHUNANYA: It was Sinebe that took care of me when I was held hostage.

ONA: Eeehn?

IHUNANYA: I love him mother, he's not like his people. (Smiles sheepishly)

ONA: (with a concerned look) I hope nothing happened between the two of you?

IHUNANYA: No mother. I told you he's not like his people, he's different from all men.

ONA: Hmmm, are you sure?

IHUNAYA: Mother, be rest assured. Nothing happened.

ONA: Okay, but you need to forget all the moments you had there. You are home now, that... I
am grateful to the gods for. You are getting married too. This marriage is important. My dear you
need to cheer up, tomorrow is your wedding. Okay?

(Ihunanya nods, sad and lost. Ona leaves. Ihunanya begins sobbing)

IHUNANYA: (hiccups and wipes her tears) I hope Sinebe is fine.

(Lights fade.)

ACT 2 SCENE 2

(Sinebe, Oluchi, Maduka, Nzeogwu, Emeka, Azubuike and a native doctor are on stage. Sinebe
is lying on the floor obviously in pain, he breathes heavily. The native doctor treats Sinebe's
injury. Maduka, Emeka, Azubuike and Oluchi are unsettled, Nzeogwu just stares, looking bored
and tired.)

OLUCHI: (sobs) Gods of our land, don't put us to shame.

(Nzeogwu stares at Oluchi with disgust)

MADUKA: (in anger) Obiakpu is calling for war. I will give them war.

(Abaeze walks in, he is surprised)

ABAEZE: (To Maduka) I just arrived and I heard about the incident. (Looks at Sinebe who is still
in pain) Chi m o!

MADUKA: Obiakpu people have rugged at the breast of a mad woman. They must face the
consequences! I wall rain terror on their lands. (He stamps his staff on the ground)

ABAEZE: (looks disturbed) My King, please don't take rash actions now, let's face the situation
on ground now. That is saving Sinebe.

MADUKA: The Obiakpu people are seeking war, they shall get it.

ABAEZE: (yells) THIS IS NOT THE TIME FOR THAT! (He bows) I'm sorry my King. (Maduka
fumes. Signals for him to rise.) It's not my place, but you are my brother and lying here is my s–
nephew. Let's thread carefully

MADUKA: I will wipe out every last citizen of Obiakpu, first let's sort this issue…

(Maduka continues to fume)

OLUCHI: (To the native doctor) How is he now?

NATIVE DOCTOR: He will surely survive your highness. Be rest assured my queen.

(Lights fade.)

(Night. Sinebe, Emeka and Azubuike are on stage. Sinebe is still lying on the floor. Sinebe is
unconscious.)

SINEBE: (calling faintly.) Ihunanya, Ihunanya.

(Emeka and Azubuike stare at each other)

SINEBE: (calling intensifies.) Ihunanya, Ihunanya, Ihunanya. (Wakes up and shouts) Ihunanya!
(Breathes loudly)

EMEKA: My prince, my prince you are awake (Helps Sinebe sit up)

SINEBE: What about Ihunanya?

(Emeka and Azubuike are mute)

AZUBUIKE: They took her.

SINEBE: (Sinebe sighs heavily) I remember, I know who planned it and I'm going to get my
princess. (Azubuike looks worried while Emeka just squirms)

(Lights fade)

ACT 2 SCENE 3

(In Obiakpu's throne room, Aguadi and Ona are on stage. Ihunaya comes in clad in her wedding
apparel, she sobs.)

IHUNANYA: I beg of you (kneels holding her hands together) Don't do this to me. Father.

AGUADI: (confused) Do what?

IHUNANYA: Marry Afamefuna.

AGUADI: I am confused, why?

IHUNANYA: I do not love him.

AGUADI: Does that matter, you have to marry him. You must marry him.

IHUNANYA: (weeps) But I don't love him.

AGUADI: What has come over you? Are you alright? We all agreed that you are getting married
to Afamefuna, you were there too. (Pauses) and you agreed, why are you behaving like this
today?

IHUNANYA: Please father, I don't love him, I love someone else.

AGUADI: And who is the someone else you love?

IHUNANYA: (lowly) Sinebe.

AGUADI: What? Sinebe? The prince of the kingdom we are against?

IHUNANYA: I have fallen for him father. Please.

AGUADI: Ihunanya, I don't think you are alright, what is wrong with you. (To Ona) Talk to your
daughter.

(Aguadi exits leaving Ona and Ihunanya. Ihunanya is still kneeling)

ONA: I have spoken to you about this, why are you bringing this up again on your wedding day.
IHUNANYA: Mother, I don't want to be miserable my entire life. Allow me to marry the man of
my choice.

ONA: The man of your choice, okwaya?

IHUNANYA: Please mother.

ONA: My daughter (helps Ihunanya up.) Afamefuna is a good man, he will give you everything
in the world. He will grant your heart desires. Just marry him, biko.

IHUNANYA: I don't love Afamefuna, doesn't that matter?

ONA: My daughter…

IHUNANYA: (interrupts) I don't care what you or father think. I have made up my mind. I love
Sinebe. I wish father never rescued me, I would have been with my love.

(Ona slaps Ihunanya)

ONA: (shouts) Shut your insolent mouth! Shut it up and stop behaving like a child! You are
getting married to Afamefuna whether you like it or not! (Frowns) Of all people, it is Sinebe you
chose to love. Pull yourself together. You are the princess of Umuoji, ACT LIKE IT. You're not
some simpering girl (shakes Ihunanya.) You are a princess.

(Ona exits, leaving Ihunanya still sobbing.)

(Lights fade)

(Lights come on to reveal Ihunanya on stage still clad in her wedding dress. She is sitting down
and sobbing. Sinebe walks briskly in. Ihunanya looks up, disbelieving her eyes.)

IHUNANYA: How did you get in? (Looks around) What about the guards?

SINEBE: That doesn't matter now. I came to see you. Do you want to come with me? Do you
want to leave here?

IHUNANYA: (smiles) Yes, yes.

SINEBE: Let's go then.

(Sinebe holds Ihunaya's hands, they both exit briskly.)

ACT 2 SCENE 4

(Ihunanya's wedding; it is a festive mood, there are celebrations and laughter. Aguadi and Ona
are seated beside each other. Afamefuna and his family are sitting at the right side of the stage.
The crowd sits at the right and left side of the stage. The guards stand at the left and right side
of the stage. The dancers come on stage to perform. After that the singers sing the songs of
praise of the royal family, they sing wedding songs too. After the performances the performers
take their seats. A maid rushes in. She speaks into Ona's ears.)

ONA: (Tries to compose herself. Fake smiles and speaks in a hushed tone.) What do you mean
by that? (Looks at Aguadi. Aguadi looks confused and orders the celebration to halt)

(Celebration is halted.)

AGUADI: Speak up maid, what happened?!

MAID: (Bows her head) Your highness, I saw the princess leaving with a man…

AGUADI: (interrupts) What?! (Pauses) Lies, you're telling lies. My own Ihunanya? Impossible.

MAID: (still bowing) I dare not your majesty. I swear on Amadioha, I saw the princess and a
man running south, your highness. Towards the Eze river.

AGUADI: Towards Eze river! The person is from Umuoji, no doubt about that. The Umuoji
people have kidnapped my daughter. There is no way my daughter will agree to running away
when today is her day of joy. (To the maid) Call all the warriors! This means war!

AFAMEFUNA: I want to fight to get my wife back. I'm coming with you. (He stands)

KANAYO: I am also coming. (Aguadi nods.)

(Aguadi exits with the guards, Afamefuna and Kanayo. Everyone on stage is either shocked or
surprised. Ona sobs.)

(Lights fade.)

ACT 2 SCENE 5

(In Umuoji's throne room; Maduka, Oluchi and bodyguards are on stage. A maid runs in, fear is
written all over her face. Everyone is caught unawares.)

MAID: Your highness, they are here.

MADUKA: Who?
MAID: Obiakpu warriors are attacking the villagers. They are heading here.

OLUCHI: Heii!

(Almost immediately Obiakpu warriors storm into the throne room with Aguadi, they charge
towards Maduka. One of the warriors slits the maid's throat. Oluchi, Nzeogwu and Maduka are
forced to kneel down.)

AGUADI: How dare you come to my kingdom and kidnap my daughter, twice! Someone from
your kingdom abducted my daughter today.

(Aguadi gives a signal to one of the warriors, they slit Oluchi's throat)

MADUKA: (shouts and struggles) AGUADI! I will make you pay. Ndi Dike!!!

(Maduka rises sharply and charges towards Aguadi, Umuoji warriors rush in, a battle starts.
Both Aguadi and Maduka brawl, Aguadi is winning the brawl. After some moments, Nzeogwu
and Abaeze rush in with warriors. Umuoji warriors battle Obiakpu warriors, after moments of
brawl only Nzeogwu, Abaeze, Aguadi, Maduka and few of Obiakpu warriors still brawling. Both
parties are injured. All Obiakpu warriors are dead. Maduka and Aguadi are still fighting.
Nzeogwu tries to strike Aguadi down, he is stopped by Maduka)

MADUKA: This is my fight…

(Ihunanya runs in with Sinebe)

IHUNANYA: (screams) please all of you should stop this!

(The brawl ends abruptly)

IHUNANYA: (Sobbing) I thought I could elope with Sinebe. I am sorry.

SINEBE: (kneels before injured Maduka) Please my father, let's stop this. A lot of lives have
been lost to this war. Please let us end this.

(Nzeogwu walks to Sinebe, yanks him up and punch Sinebe in his face)

NZEOGWU: All of this is happening because you fell in love with our enemy.

SINEBE: Don't push the blame on me, you son of the devil.

NZEOGWU: Me?
SINEBE: Yes you.

(Both Sinebe and Nzeogwu engage in a fight, Ihunaya tries to put a stop to the fight. She is held
back by Abaeze)

IHUNANYA: (crying) Please stop.

(Sinebe strikes Nzeogwu down and rains punches on Nzeogwu face, Sinebe is on top of
Nzeogwu)

SINEBE: (shouts) You are a traitor, you are the mastermind behind all this! You are the cause!
You manipulated father to begin the war. You are the one that gave Ihunanya's cloth and Udala
fruit to King Aguadi!

NZEOGWU: (laughs) You bastard, it's so sad you don't know the truth.

(Sinebe looks confused, Nzeogwu picks up a dagger close to him and stabs Sinebe in the
stomach. Nzeogwu pushes Sinebe off himself as Sinebe bleeds profusely. Nzeogwu stands up.
Ihunaya pulls herself from Abaeze and rush to Sinebe, she sits on the floor as she weeps and
hugs Sinebe. Everyone is shocked. Maduka and Abaeze rush towards Sinebe)

IHUNANYA: SINEBE! NOOOOO! (holds him and weeps) why? Nzeogwu, why did you do this?
For what? He is your brother, why would you do this? You are a monster, nzeogwu. Monster, I
say!

NZEOGWU: It is so sad. (laughs) Am I supposed to feel bad? And are you forgetting that he's
my HALF brother. (Sighs and laughs hysterically.) Okay, I'm sorry. Is that a good enough
apology for you? (Mockingly) My princess? (IHUNANYA fumes, holding Sinebe's body)

(Immediately the rebels (Nzeogwu's army) storm in and kill every warrior and guard on stage,
they then surround everyone on stage. Ihunanya, Abaeze, Maduka and Aguadi at the centre of
the stage; spears and swords are pointed at them. Emeka comes on stage dragging Ona with
them, they push Ona to the centre. Every character in the centre are surprised at seeing Emeka
side with nzeogwu)

SINEBE: Y-y-you! (points to Emeka) EMEKA! YOUUU?! (Emeka laughs.)

NZEOGWU: Tsk tsk tsk. Don't waste the little strength you have left. (With bloody hands, he
sniffs and pouts) Look at you two. Aren't you so beautiful together? (Turns to Ihunanya) I bet my
knife would look good on you too. Aren't you so clueless. (Laughs) You two are half siblings
(laughs again)

IHUNANYA: What are you talking about? You scheming devil.

NZEOGWU: Okay, (clears his throat) Are you ready for a story?

IHUNANYA: Leave us alone, you cursed man.

NZEOGWU: Cursed? (Laughs) The only people cursed here are you and Sinebe. (Sighs) I
won't keep you waiting. (Takes Maduka's crown from the floor. He snaps his fingers. The
warriors bring in a throne. He seats)
Once upon a time, there lived a powerful King called Aguadi, he was wealthy and had
everything. A beautiful house, a prosperous kingdom. What more did he want, he had
everything. Everything except a heir, a child of his own. And so, the beautiful wife of Aguadi
goes to the Dibia. The Dibia reveals to the queen that her husband is impotent, so he is unable
to have children of his own. Sad and disappointed, the Queen goes to her lover. The one she
fell in love with but couldn't marry who happens to be King of the enemy kingdom. (Nzeogwu
fakes surprise. The characters gasp. Nzeogwu chuckles) Well, the Queen being the whore she
is, begged the King of the enemy kingdom to lay with her and plant in her, his seed. The weak
and finished man, who also couldn't say no, his uncontrollable libido led to him having an affair
with the enemy and you, Ihunanya, (points his sword at her) are the product of that affair.
(Pauses) Sinebe is Abaeze's child, Sinebe's mother also had an affair with Abaeze and took in.
Sinebe was born nine months after that, seven days before my mother bore me. (Looks at
Ihunanya and Sinebe, the duo are shocked) It is so appalling, isn't it. Fate is something else.
(Laughs. Abaeze hides his face in shame and tears roll down Maduka's cheeks)

IHUNANYA: Liar, who do you think you are? You are evil, you are a liar!

NZEOGWU: Look at your mother and ask her if I'm lying. Go on (laughs).

(Ihunanya gives Ona a questioning look)

IHUNANYA: (To Ona) Mother, is it true?

NZEOGWU: She can't deny it. She can't.

ONA: I am sorry my daughter, (looks at Aguadi, breaks down.) I am sorry my husband.

AGUADI: I knew about it, but I couldn't do anything about it since the gods refused to bless me
with my own child.

NZEOGWU: So touching, I am moved. Seriously speaking, I am not lying. (Wipes false tears)
(Pauses) Anyway, I knew the truth all along. Imagine this bastard (points at Sinebe) is supposed
to be the heir apparent to the throne of Umuoji. (Shakes his head). Because of these things, I
decided that I need to be the ruler of both kingdoms to put everyone in check. (Looks at
Maduka) You are useless father, very very useless. You slept with our enemy. You did not even
know Ihunanya is your daughter. Well the gods have rewarded your foolish action, you have
also been raising a bastard under your nose. (laughs)
You have always been a weak man.

(Sinebe is still in Ihunanya's arms. Ihunanya sobs as Sinebe is in a bad shape. Nzeogwu is
obviously enjoying himself)

SINEBE: (To Ihunanya.) Please (picks up a knife) End my misery.

IHUNANYA: What are you talking about?

SINEBE: This is too much, I don't deserve to live.

NZEOGWU: Eyaaa, so touching. Be fast about it please. Some people have two kingdoms to
reconstruct. (Laughs)

IHUNANYA: No, please. My love, I can't do it.

NZEOGWU: I'm so bored (yawns)

SINEBE: Do it. Please, it's the only way I can die. I love you, Ihunanya, please do it. (he holds
Ihunanya's hands, and forces the knife into his chest. He gasps for breath and eventually the
light of life drains out from his eyes. Ihunanya screams loudly and painfully. Everyone except
Nzeogwu and his minions react sorrowfully. Aguadi acts nonchalant and Ona cries silently.)

IHUNANYA: Why? Why?? What did I do wrong? Why are the gods so cruel? Whyyy? (she
weeps profusely)

NZEOGWU: Finally.

(Catching Nzeogwu unaware, with the speed of lightning she stands up and stabs Nzeogwu on
his side, the stab is not fatal. EMEKA kills Ihunanya. Nzeogwu commands the guards to kill
Ona, Aguadi, Abaeze and Maduka. Ona is killed first, Aguadi and Abaeze struggle but they are
defeated and killed.)

NZEOGWU: Finally everyone is dead. It's been so noisy, (turns to Emeka) don't you think…
(Emeka slits Nzeogwu's throat. He falls to his death. The warriors stay where they are. It seems
they are all in on Emeka's plan.)

EMEKA: He always spoke too much didn't he? Fool. (Kicks Nzeogwu and takes the crown off
his head) Brother! Father! (Afamefuna and Kanayo come in.)

KANAYO: You have done well, my son. (smiles and pats him on the shoulder)
AFAMEFUNA: Seems our plan worked. Both kingdoms and the land are ours… (Emeka kills
his brother and father.)

EMEKA: Mine. The Kingdoms are mine.

I will rule and whoever tries taking my crown will be ripped apart.
(The warriors bow)

WARRIORS: IGWE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

(Lights fade to become dim.)

NARRATOR: And so ends the generational war between Obiakpu and Umuoji. Ihunanya and
sinebe (sighs) the wickedness and greed in this polluted love stood in the way of their beautiful
story. That is what greed, covetousness and envy does to people. Many kingdoms and great
empires have torn each other apart, all for greed. As the century crawls by, humanity becomes
more greedy, cruel and evil to one another. All for what? Wealth, power, money. Well, it is finally
over, bad people live long, they say. Emeka lived longer than any ruler. He was a cruel tyrant,
his reign was filled with nothing but pain and agony, the two Kingdoms finally collapsed.
Villagers died and the land they all fought for, never even existed. It was just an ordinary barren
land. Life is vanity.
Be that as it may, we have arrived at our final destination. Ka ọ dị

(LIGHT FADE TO SHARP BLACKOUT.)

THE END.