When someone dies in Yoruba land,
they are not buried.
Rather, the sacred forest is where the corpse is taken to.
When someone dies, it is said that they go to rest.
They rest…
That is how the dead were buried in Yoruba land,
before the turn of time.
Times changed,
and now we dig the ground to bury the dead.
The Ifa oracle says that
the Akala bird
has the power of resurrection.
When people die…
…in an untimely way,
with its divine ability,
the mystical Akala bird resurrects them.
But if the person's time is due,
the mystical bird allows them passage to the great beyond.
In a verse of the Ifa's divination, called the "Idin'osun,"
A courageous child robed in the form of Akala,
consults the oracle for the King of Oyo
and tells him to make a sacrifice
so that his palace will not be razed by fire.
A disobedient child
is one who hears the flutter of the wings of the dove in flight.
The oracle is consulted for Saro, a friend of Elemele,
Salagereje.
Eventually, the protector
becomes the sacrificial lamb.
Everyone come around…
…can you not see the prophecy has been fulfilled?!
What is the cause of your death?
Your Royal Highness!
Greetings.
Young man!
You look like you've traveled a long way to see the festival.
I'm not here for the festival.
-What festival? -And you're looking so dirty.
Well, stay on the right side of the law.
-Keep moving along. -Thank you.
Be careful!
Our mother.
-Welcome. -Good morning.
You are very much welcome. You understand?
Who is this sleeping here?
We don't know.
Go on, get to work.
Good day, Young…
Who are you?
Where did you come from?
I'm just a traveler. Good morning.
-A traveler? -Hmm.
I needed a place to lay my head for the night, nothing more.
I will leave now.
-Don't be upset. -No don't go anywhere. I'm not upset.
-A traveler… -Yes.
…in Oyo is not a strange sight.
The people of Oyo welcome strangers.
Where have you come from?
-I am from Gbogan. -Gbogan?
Yes. But I have lived in many places, as I seek new markets for my business.
Business?
What kind of business?
-I weave aso-ofi. -Aso-ofi?
Yes. I learned and worked with the best, in the town of Iseyin.
-Really? -In fact, I am an expert in this field.
-Really? -Yes.
Okay then. You are very lucky.
And if you prove yourself quickly, you will find fortune here in Oyo.
Thank you.
-What is your name? -Saro.
-Huh? -Saro. My name is Saro.
Saro… Saro, the aso-ofi weaver from Gbogan.
Yes.
Don't go yet.
Let me get you some food. Yes.
When you finish your food,
-you can then move on. -Thank you.
-Thank you, ma. -No need to mention. Stand up.
Erm… You'll go help me buy…
Is that what you came here to learn?
Huh? Bastard!
Your Highness.
I summoned you all.
As it is always said,
"To be forewarned is to be forearmed."
It is also said that, "If we fail to prepare,
we are preparing to fail."
Yes, Your Highness.
Our neighbors have started with their usual ways.
Who are they?
When did we just conclude on the issue of tax…
that we put on hold?
-It must be the Tapa tribe. -Yes, Tapa.
My chiefs!
-Your Highness. -Our father.
-Long live… Long live the King! -Your Highness.
I would rather advise… everybody go home,
sleep over it well,
and have a rethink.
By this time tomorrow,
if we will fight a war, we will know. If not, we will know.
-Let's take our leave. -Your Highness.
Good day, mothers. Good day.
Ah! Hairdresser. Welcome.
Good day, our mothers.
Hairdresser. Good day.
Thank you, ma.
-The royal hairdresser. -Thank you, ma.
Who have you come for today?
It is Queen Arolake that sent for me, ma.
-All is well with you. -Amen.
-Do a good job on her hair. -Yes, ma.
-Thank you, ma. -Oh, please.
Er, Princess Kikelomo!
Please go call Queen Arolake.
Please sit down there my dear!
Why should it be Kikelomo to go and call Queen Arolake?
Is my child a slave? Everyone knows me in this palace,
I don't go past my boundary.
I don't dabble in other people's business.
Please, for God's sake,
if the hairdresser wants to make Queen Arolake's hair
and can't go and call her herself,
then Queen Arolake herself
should call herself outside.
And if she can't come out by herself, she should hurry and conceive
so she can send her children on her errands.
If she doesn't have any child to send,
then you can call your own children
-to send them on errands. -Yes.
Please send your own children on errands.
-Queen Arolake! -Princess.
Really? Hmm.
Your hair is really full.
Er… the hairdresser that you sent for has arrived.
Good. I'm coming.
Queen, what's the matter. Let us be!
Both of you… you'll soon die of your jealousy.
You were both wedded after me.
Someone else was also wedded after you.
-Mother, don't shout. -Mother, don't shout!
You're too old for all this.
Look, Queen Arolake,
you came to this palace.
They have their children. I have mine. And you will also have yours!
Amen.
You won't come and go empty handed.
Our mother the soothsayer!
It's all good. We are all in it together.
Saro, the aso-ofi weaver from Gbogan.
-Is my meal delicious? Great. -Yes. It's good.
So, have you thought about what you're going to do now that you're here?
Why? No need for thinking.
I am going to continue my aso-ofi weaving work.
I don't know how to do anything else.
Hmm. I hear you.
I know. I know you're an aso-ofi weaver.
But I don't see any basket.
I don't see signs that you are ready to work.
Or do you have money somewhere and you're not telling me?
I do not have.
Right. I thought so. That's what made me ask you.
Er, Saro, why not work for a while?
When you work, you'll make money, you'll save up,
and then set up your trade.
Hmm?
I had hoped to find a weaver here
who would be willing to partner with me until I'm ready to go on my own.
Saro, the aso-ofi weaver from Gbogan.
How childish. You are very funny.
If you accept my suggestion, I can offer you work.
When I offer you work, you'll make money.
You'll save up.
That way, you will be on your feet in no time.
By yourself. Is that alright?
Alright, no problem. What kind of work is it?
-Well done, everyone. -Welcome, ma.
-How's the work going? -Very well.
Has the woman come for her pots yet?
She has come for them.
-Does she want more? -Yes, she does.
-Okay, that's good. -Welcome, ma.
-Well done. Is the clay good? -Welcome.
-Yes, it's good. -Very good. Well done.
-Thank you. -Well done.
-We have a visitor. -Great. Welcome.
-Thank you, ma. Well done. -Well done.
Welcome.
His name is Saro.
-Saro… -That's right.
Yes. He came to join us in our work.
-Oh, that's good. Welcome. -You will work together.
That's great. Welcome to our team. Welcome.
Saro… They say, "Make hay while the sun shines."
This is the work, Saro.
Look here.
I know. I know it's hard work.
But it's an honest one.
You will get paid daily.
And food will be provided twice.
Daily. Before you start work and before you leave.
Molding clay?
Ah. Saro…
Our friend, look… our tasks are designated squarely here.
If you start in a particular section,
and you don't like it,
you can join another section.
And you'll get paid.
Molding clay gives us money.
-Well done. -Our mother.
You see, Saro, it's up to you now.
Uh, no.
-Good day, ma. -Greetings.
Queen.
Queen Wojuola.
Who is it?
Queen Arolake, greetings.
-Please, can-- -Any problem?
I only wanted to ask if I can get my big mirror back now.
The mirror that you borrowed some time ago.
-Your mirror? -Yes.
The mirror I used and gave back to you immediately?
-It's still with you. -Really?
Well, as you can see, the mirror is not on my neck. Neither is it around my waist.
When I return to my chamber,
if I find your mirror, I will bring it to you in your chamber.
Do you hear?
Some people are not tired of looking
only at themselves day and night.
You, in this palace? We shall see.
-Good night. -Good night.
-Our visitor from Gbogan.
I am no one's visitor.
-Alright. Good night then. -Good night.
Don't stay too long before going home.
You know what they say happens in the marketplace at nightfall.
What do they say?
If you stay late in the marketplace, your eyes will see.
Hurry!
We don't stay late at the market.
Ajiun's mother, can't you wait for me?
Are you leaving me behind?
-Your Highness. -Hmm? My dear Wojuola.
-My beautiful queen. -Yes.
The apple of my eyes. The one that gives me joy.
Mh-hmm.
-Your Highness. -Yes?
Why did you neglect me?
-Is it me? -Yes.
It's been a while you visited my chamber.
You must have noticed something.
You're my favorite.
Why should I neglect you?
Hmm.
I can never neglect you. Don't you know how far we've come?
Your Highness, you say I'm your favorite.
Yes.
So why is it then that any time we're looking for you in this palace,
you are always in that child's room. That little girl… Ah.
Your Highness, don't let me talk.
You're always in her chamber.
-Wojuola. -Yes, Your Highness.
-It is true. -Wojuola.
Your Highness.
I thought that coming to your chamber tonight
would be calming my nerves and make me have a sound sleep.
I never knew you would bore me with talk.
Your Highness,
-please do not misunderstand me. -Look, erm…
You see, this life is not as hard as you think.
Your Highness, please do not misunderstand me.
Life cannot be relied upon.
There is no love without jealousy, Your Highness.
Look, I'm tired.
You're really getting dressed? Your Highness.
Your Highness, please stay a little longer. Come back. Please--
Look, excuse me please.
I'm here. My dear Arolake.
Ah, Your Highness, please don't touch me.
-Why? -It's not my night.
Who told you it's not your turn tonight?
Every night is your turn with me.
Huh? Come on, come closer.
Ah. No, Your Highness. I don't want any trouble.
Who would trouble you, Arolake?
Who would trouble you?
Wait a minute, what have you done to me, lady?
What have you done to me? Hmm, Arolake my dear?
-Look-- -We can't do this. Stop.
What the meaning of that? Huh?
Okay, it's my time of the month.
That can't be right. Ah-ah-ah.
Don't say that now. When did that start?
-Yes. -It's really true. I'm not lying.
-Really? -It came a little early.
I think it's the different fertility herbs
I've been taking recently that keeps changing my cycle.
-Fertility mixtures? -Yes.
Well, if that's it, there are ways around these things.
-Don't worry. I know what to do. -Really?
-Come close to me. Tsk. -Your Highness.
-What is it? -Your Highness,
-don't behave like those-- -Excuse me, please.
-Alright. Help me. -Be careful.
Please, who amongst you is Saro?
It's me.
Our mother said to give this to you.
Thank you.
Hurry up. Who is…
Please, what are you people standing there gawking at?
Anyone who wants to eat should come over. Otherwise, leave this place.
Will you eat or not?
Here it is. Are you taking it or not?
My goodness.
Take this.
Don't push. Here it is. Take your meal.
-Please, pass it to him. -Where's my own food?
-Give us our food. -The food is almost finished.
Ah.
-Older Queen. -Younger Queen.
-You found it… my mirror. -Yes.
The mirror.
Such a beauty. Just like you.
Thank you for bringing it.
But you shouldn't have bothered. You could've sent one of the little ones.
I wouldn't want them to break it.
Ah.
I know how valuable it is.
Our husband paid a high price for it.
The king's favorite is glowing like the moon.
Why is it only you to whom the best gifts are given?
My Queen, you're the king's favorite.
The rest of us don't entice him.
-Is that so? -Yes.
Then how come every time he's supposed to be in my bed…
the king finds his way to your chamber?
Are you surprised how I got to know?
You miserable woman.
-You witch! Full of hate. -I am not a witch.
And even if I were,
I would have used my powers for better things than luring some old man who--
What?
Complete your statement.
Did I hear you right?
The king is just an old lecher to you, isn't he?
Our king who rules over all
means nothing to you anymore?
Please, my senior, do not misunderstand me.
You see, I don't know what you heard.
Believe me, I did not entertain the king out of turn.
You don't have to beg.
Don't bother saying anything.
We all have our uses here in this palace.
For some of us… are you listening?
We are to bear royal sons and daughters for his highness.
But you…
yours is different.
You're simply nothing but for the king's pleasure.
Oh yes! You're useful for nothing else. Listen.
This is a warning. Listen carefully.
Any damn time in this palace that it is my turn with the king
and he goes missing,
and I find out he's in your chamber… Ah!
I'll deal with you.
Senior Queen. Please, my mirror.
Take your mirror.
Faster.
Our friend from Gbogan!
Good morning.
She's a married woman, you know?
Who?
Awarun.
Awarun has the form of a woman but she is a man.
Why are you telling me this?
Ah, it is my duty to tell you.
You are a newcomer in these parts and you are still young.
In fact, I would have said you're stupid
but I do not want to insult your maker.
Awarun…
Tsk. About seven years ago,
she just left her husband's house.
Hah.
You are not the first. Yes…
All men working for her were once her lover.
This is now your time. Okay?
Does anyone around here know about me and her?
That, I don't know.
Most people around are so busy they do not have time for any gossip.
They mind their business.
-Oh really? -Yes.
But not you, right?
Really? It's not your fault.
Ah, it's really not your fault.
Blame it on my conscience that compels me to tell you the truth.
This woman you're involved with is a man-eater.
Are you listening?
Young good looking men like you, is what she loves.
She sleeps with them, and turns them into slaves.
Keep quiet!
What nonsense are you saying?!
It's not your fault. Yeah? I've done my duty.
Keep at it. Hmm?
Come on, hurry up!
Hey! Here she comes.
Roaming heedlessly like a sheep. Here she is.
Pick them properly.
-…has started acting up. -Take it easy.
Rubbish.
What?!
What?! Denike!
Anike!
Haven't I warned you not to go close to her again?
-Come on, leave this place. -Take it easy!
Go sleep if you're not busy. Get inside! Come on go inside.
Can you imagine, my Queen.
You really have to calm down.
They were only helping her to pick her beads.
Is it a crime to help?
Why did you beat innocent children? What is it?
Excuse me, our mother. Everyone in this palace knows me.
I do not cross my boundaries.
And I do not poke my nose into people's affairs.
What is it? Why should my children pick her beads?
Are they her slaves?
It's not a matter of slavery? Her beads scattered on the ground.
Have your children sinned by helping her pick them up?
-You really do need to calm down. -So what if her beads scattered?
So what if her beads scattered? Is something wrong with her hands?
Are the beads so heavy that she can't pick them up herself?
Please, my dear, I hope nothing is wrong with you?
I am not the cause of her childlessness.
Please. Hypocrite. Hmm.
-Your Royal Highness. -Who is it?
Your Royal Highness, it's me Ogunjimi, your servant.
Come in.
Your Royal Highness.
-Hope no problem? -Your highness, Queen Arolake is feverish.
-Arolake is feverish? -Yes, Your Highness.
-What kind of fever is that? -I do not understand either.
Ah-ah.
Arolake.
Why don't you let me… What's wrong with you?
Arolake, my wife. What's…?
Arolake…
You're deceitful.
Yes.
Come on, let's go.
Alright.
You haven't seen anything.
Thank you, ma.
Yes, of course.
-I could weave aso-ofi here. -Oh, yes.
-Good day. -Welcome.
Good day.
-You are Saro the aso-ofi weaver? -Yes.
Awarun directed us here.
She said we'll get a very good aso-ofi from you for my daughter.
Yes, let me show you some of them.
Yes.
-Here they are. -You see? Look.
Here they are.
Look.
Isn't this good?
-Are you out of your mind? -Very beautiful, mother.
It's beautiful.
Queen Arolake, I have come to give you your herbs.
Who is that?
Come in and show yourself.
Who are you? You must be new here.
I am new in this palace.
The herbs were delivered to the kitchen and I was sent to bring them to you.
How about Doja? Where is she?
I have no idea where she is.
I was only sent to bring this to you.
Hmm.
Okay, then.
Thank you.
Wait.
Come take the calabash back to the kitchen.
Ah-ah. Akano Erin.
Yes, this is me.
-Ah. Look at you. You've really changed. -Ahh.
-Because I'm getting bald? -Ah, look at your bald head.
Don't you know it means wealth when the head is getting bald?
Money is coming.
Yes, wealth is for us.
-What? -Who goes there?
-Where? -Somebody is there.
I say, who is it?
Be very careful, please.
Where did you see him?
Who is there?
-Can you hear? -Please be careful.
Be careful please .
-Will you take the torch? -Yes.
Take it easy.
-Do you see anything? -No, I can't see anything.
Then it's the breeze.
Drop the torch and come in.
-Come in, time is running out. Come in. -That's good then.
Awarun!
-Yes that's me. I said, come in! -Alright.
Let's go inside.
Okay, go in.
Our boss.
-Won't you sing for us today? -Entertain us with your music.
Are you both mad?
I should sing a song to entertain you?
Have you finished your tasks?
"Sing a song to entertain us." Nonsense.
Finish the work I gave you and stop running your mouths!
"Sing a song to entertain us."
Good afternoon.
Wow. A lot of work is going on here.
-Welcome, our mother. -Mother.
-Hmm? You both will succeed. -Amen, ma.
-I hope you all are well. -Yes, Mother.
Babarinsa, hope your mother is well.
She is well, thank you.
-She's healthy? -Yes, she is.
Very good.
Eh, Adigun? I see you too.
Well done. Take care. Saro?
No greetings today?
I greet you, welcome.
Hm.
Babarinsa…
Come. Come.
-Adigun? -Ma?
Come over too.
Hurry. Come this way.
Go to the kolanut seller and get me some.
Hurry back. Don't stay long.
What's wrong?
I'm talking to you.
Who were you with last night?
Who was that man?
Ah, so you…
Saro.
So it was you.
So that was you creeping around my walls last night, and peeping in my windows?
Ah.
You're such a fool.
Saro.
How dare you open your dirty mouth…
to ask me such a question?
-You? I said it. -Me?
-Yes, of course. I said it. -Dirty mouth?
Saro.
It wasn't a mistake. I mean it.
Just look at me.
Not only do you have a big dirty mouth…
it also stinks.
Your mouth smells.
It's rotten.
Yes, I tell you. Look at me.
Whatever I do, no one questions me.
I can also do whatever I like with anyone.
And no one, not even you, dares question me.
Wait a minute…Saro.
Did I tell you that I need a husband?
Or did I ask you to help out? Which of them did I do?
Ah, Saro.
Do not bite more than you can chew.
You hear me?
Tread carefully and face your work.
This woman you're involved with is a man-eater.
Are you listening?
Young, good-looking men like you, is what she loves.
She sleeps with them and turns them into slaves.
I greet you all, my chiefs.
Your Highness.
-This empire won't be destroyed. -Amen.
Amen.
Akiniku just said something important
about the white slave traders.
Wait,
where are we headed?
Your Highness.
-King with the beautiful beads. -Thank you.
Your reign will endure.
Amen.
I greet all chiefs.
-Our mothers, you shall live long. -Amen.
As soon as I heard that they were coming with slaves to this village,
I came to tell the king.
But before I told him,
all the armed men in the village
I had positioned everywhere.
Where there were two men, there are now ten.
Well done.
Where there were ten men, there are now 20.
I don't know anywhere else they would pass through
to come and enslave the people of Oyo.
-Let us see. -You're a strong man.
Well done, Mr. Achiever.
Your Highness.
Your reign shall last.
-You shall live long. -men.
We've been trading in this village for a long time.
Anyone can work hard and reap success.
Then build a house and get married.
And then the wife gives birth, and then they raise the child.
Then when it's time for the father
to sit and relax,
to start enjoying the fruit of their labor,
the child is lured far away, with some petty pleasures.
Off they go, sold to a far away land.
Have you ever seen such a child come back to his or her root again?
Yes, that's true.
So please let's take it easy. Slavery isn't good.
-It's not good. -Do not for once give it a chance.
Do not take any chances. My humble opinion.
Please, let us not complicate simple things.
-Is that a proverb? -Ah-ah. Isn't it…
Why is it that we always get ahead of ourselves? Why?
Those that are coming, the white people that said they want to partner with us…
Why don't we just listen to them
and hear the business they want to partner with us for?
Isn't it the white people that are coming?
Don't say that.
Don't even think about it.
Why would you even say that sort of thing?
You mean children who would be useful for us in the future
should be sold off to the slave trade? Come on!
-We are not slaves. -Look, I'm getting scared already.
I'm scared already.
Let's be sensitive.
So no one would expose us to our enemies.
That's how it will be if we are not careful.
Let's be careful.
Slave trade is of no advantage to us.
Do not repeat what you've just said. It's the wrong end of the stick.
Slave trade is just an official way of kidnapping.
Mm-hmm.
Do you think anyone sold into slavery
-ever comes back home? -Right.
They forget their homeland. Such a person is gone forever.
Your Highness.
-We live amongst the villagers. -Yes.
We see and know everything my king.
There's nothing happening in this village that is news to us.
Everything is clear to us.
My king, you have all our support. You just relax.
By the grace of God, you shall live long on your throne.
-Amen. -Amen.
Amen.
Oyo chiefs.
Your Royal Highness.
Saro…
I'm begging you.
How long would I beg you before you forgive me, Saro.
Saro.
Do you want to marry me?
Ah! Ah-ah-ah.
Saro.
Don't do that.
Even if I decide today to marry again,
oh, Saro, not someone like you.
I can't marry you.
Take a look at me, Saro.
You are too young for me.
You can't marry me.
Saro, please.
I wish for you a woman…
that'll love you, respect you,
take care of you, treat you like a king,
and bear you children.
That's the kind of woman I wish for you.
Saro,
when that time comes,
you will have my blessing.
Do you hear me?
I will support you.
I'll give you my all in support.
You hear me?
But then, you see the way we are now.
Let nothing come between you and I.
Do you hear me?
Come on, hug me. Cheer up. Let go of your moodiness.
Don't be like that. Hmm.
Hmm?
Saro…
Hm, I have good news for you.
I have great news for you. Yes, I do.
The king's wives…
and other noble women are in need of new clothes.
Yes. So I recommended you for the job.
Yes.
-Really? -Yes, of course.
So…
I, Saro,
would make new clothes for the king and his chiefs?
You are expected tomorrow at the palace.
-I could be on my way immediately. -Come on! How come?
Let's make love till tomorrow.
-You're expected tomorrow. -I Saro…
Yes, you Saro. Come on.
-…the son of Tewogbola will make aso-ofi… -Yes.
-…for the royal household? -Yes.
-Ah, Awarun. Ah, Awarun. Ah. -Come on. Yes?
Welcome, Queen.
Trust all is well.
Welcome.
-Did you come with the best ones? -Good day, Mother.
-Yes. -Good day.
-It shall be well with you. -Amen.
Young man. They said you have the best clothes.
-Of course. -Let's check them.
Ah. They're good indeed.
-This is not colorful at all. -Oh yes.
-It's really not bad. -Do you have another one?
We don't want. Give our mother that one.
There are many of them.
This one is good.
-What do you think? -Looks beautiful.
-Do you still have this design? -Yes, it's available.
Great.
Mother, is that your choice?
What's the problem? Why can't I wear it?
It will be too flashy on you.
Bring the princess' own.
-Do you like this one? -This is good.
This would really look beautiful on you. Take them.
Alright. Keep this for me, okay?
What about the other royal children?
They will be dressed accordingly.
Meanwhile, keep this for me. Okay?
-Keep these for me. -We too will pick these ones.
We would pick these ones.
The princess will take this one.
Yes. It's for the princess. That's good.
-Thank you very much. -Thank you.
Please don't mix them up.
That's our mother's choice, we picked different designs.
Yes.
-May God help you. -Thank you.
Royal children, good day. Hope you are good.
Young man, there is one more Queen.
-You wait here and I'll go call her. -Alright.
Man or beast, whoever is following me, reveal yourself!
Who's that?
Queen!
Ah.
-Mother. -Yes, I'm listening.
I'm so glad about the new clothes we're about to buy.
Mm-hmm?
Don't you see how good looking the man is?
-Just like his fabrics. -Hmm?
All the fabrics look so attractive.
It was so difficult to choose.
He's so handsome, Mother.
Just confess that you like the man.
-My mother… -Keep quiet.
That's not what I said.
Am I lying against you? Hmm?
Is it because I said his clothes are very good?
-Hm. -Ah. Mother.
Oh, please. Hmm.
You must have forgotten that I gave birth to you.
No matter how old you are, I'll always be your mother.
Do you think I didn't see you?
I saw both of you looking at each other romantically.
I was not looking at him romantically.
-Maybe he was looking at me, I don't know. -Hmm.
But I…
Omowunmi Ayanladun Omofadeke,
I wasn't looking at anyone romantically.
When you are done deceiving yourself, let me know.
Truth be told, he is so handsome.
Hmm.
I wonder if he's married or not.
So who would confirm that for us now?
-My mother. -Hmm?
I was thinking I would like to change some of my choices.
-Hmm. -Can you have him come back so that I can
look at the designs again?
And pick another.
Your wish is our command.
-Is that all? -Thank you, my mother.
Hmm.
Where have you been?
Ah.
You really scared me.
Saro.
Where are you coming from?
Why are you questioning me?
Do I ask you where you go?
Alright. I stopped by to see some friends on my way.
Really? Saro.
You are lying.
-You don't have friends. -Really?
Since when did you have friends?
I have many friends.
-Really? -Yes.
Let me tell you, my friends are many.
-Hmm. -Yes.
Very good then.
Queen Arolake.
-Who is it? -It's Omowunmi.
Come in.
Princess Omowunmi. Are you here to steal my beads?
Not at all.
I came to drag you out of your room where you hide every day.
Listen, how come you don't come outside to get some sun into your skin?
So that your skin can glow more?
I don't really like the sun.
I like the moon better.
Unlike the sun that is so harsh, the moon is a gentle lover.
I don't know about such things.
Soon enough, you'll understand.
Wait till your father finds you a man,
a handsome prince.
Not on my life!
Hm. No one is going to choose a husband for me.
I myself
will choose the man that I want.
Okay. That's good. Here.
Ah, for me?
Thank you. I'm grateful. It's so lovely.
I keep making them but I can't sell them.
And I certainly can't wear them all.
Maybe some of the other princesses may like to have them too.
You have a point there.
Do you have interest in any young man at the moment?
When last exactly did you see any handsome man,
any eligible man at the palace?
Apart from the aso-ofi weaver that came the other day.
-You like him? -Not at all.
I'm just saying he is at least interesting and good looking.
He is even coming to the palace this evening.
I want to look at those designs again to choose another.
Really? But you said you don't have an eye for him.
The fabric or the fabric-maker?
You're funny.
Saro!
Be gentle with my legs!
So you really haven't found anyone you like yet?
These ones are beautiful.
I'm thinking about adding them
to the former ones I picked.
Queen!
Queen.
Ah-ah. Where did she go anyway?
Hm.
Queen.
Where were you? I was looking for you.
Er…Tsk.
I only went out for some fresh air in the moonlight.
Remember I told you
the moon is my secret lover.
So what did you want to see me for?
-Nothing. It's past now. -Okay.
Hmm.
-Goodnight. -Goodnight, friend.
-Take care. -See you tomorrow.
-Well done. -Well done.
Welcome.
Saro.
You have the right to be mad at me…
Saro. Who is mad at you?
Please…
I'm pleading.
I don't know what made me behave like that towards you.
I said, who is mad at you?
Definitely not me.
Then why have you stayed away from me, all this while?
Even if we quarrel, should we stay apart for so long?
Oh.
I mean it, I'm not mad at you.
I'm only scared for you.
Because, you see, you're taking on more than you can handle.
Saro…
you've been taking something that is not yours.
-That's all. -Is that so?
What do you mean?
Anything that will land you in trouble,
I don't want it.
Saro, I warn you.
Kindly take your leave.
Calm down.
Don't say anything, I'm begging you.
At least I'm here already.
Let's enjoy the moment.
Ah.
How do you even manage to come and go without being seen?
Like a snake,
I can slither in and out of anywhere I want to without being caught.
Okay, I'm sorry.
My personal bodyguard covers for me.
What? What did you say?
Your guard knows you come to see me?
-At this time? -Not at all.
I do tell him I'm going to see my mother.
We left the palace together, but we didn't get here together.
I gave him some money and I told him to go enjoy himself.
Then I came here.
Hah.
Saro, I know…
I'm also afraid but…
I was missing you and had to see you.
So one can be this happy!
Hmm.
This is the closest to happiness I have ever been.
Yes, I came to thank you.
Everything has been going on fine and well.
-I'm calm and happy. Thank you. -Thanks.
-Thanks to God Almighty. -Thank you.
-Thank you very much. -You're welcome.
Yes.
-That's how it ought to be. -Yes. Exactly, Your Highness.
If there's to be a conflict within the community,
it's the duty of the king to settle the matter.
I was only 15 when I was married off to the king.
Isn't this that little Arolake?
She's the one. The exact one.
-She's all grown now. -She's the one. Your Highness.
I could take her as wife, right?
Ah, Your Royal Highness…
Ah, I'll do what the king wants.
I tried to kill myself.
But it wasn't successful.
I felt so trapped, like someone in a permanent jail.
I was so angry, and I was also very sad.
I have experienced nothing
but only hatred from the other queens.
Hmm.
Recently,
-someone tried to poison me. -What?
-Poison? -Yes.
-Arolake, you must not die! -Drink some more.
I was between life and death.
Please drink some more.
Well done. Good!
The other queens did it of course.
You mean, you went through all that?
Hmm.
I've also been through a lot in my life.
Saro!
I was only six
when I was taken away to work off my parent's debt.
Move faster.
Coming to Oyo was the turning point for me.
I've been able to make profit from my hard work here.
So I've decided, it's either I make it here…
or I die while hustling.
One must happen.
Huh.
Your labor will not be in vain.
Oyo has been kind to you.
Oyo has been kind to me indeed.
But…
the day I set my eyes on you
was the day I said to myself that,
if this kind of beauty could belong to me…
only death would separate us.
-Really? -Indeed.
-Saro… -Yes?
Let's run away.
What did you say?
You and I, let's pack our things and leave town, right now!
Come on, no.
-Ah-ah. -Saro, don't be scared. We can do this.
Do you know what you're saying?
Run away? To where?
Anywhere without sadness.
Look, I have access to some of the
King's treasures.
I'll hurry to the palace and get something substantial for our journey.
Ah. No. I don't support this.
Saro, calm down and listen to me.
There is no way I'm going back to that horrible life.
Not after all I've heard from you tonight.
I'm certain destiny has brought us together.
And we can make it together.
Ah.
Saro…
Anything that will land you in trouble,
I don't want it.
Saro, I warn you.
Arolake. Arolake, let's elope.
-Run? -Yes.
But it has to be tonight.
I will hurry to the palace to get my things.
-Arolake! Arolake! -What is it?
Don't give them suspicion.
I'll start packing my own things as well.
Er…
Ah. Princess Omowunmi.
What's the matter?
Hope there's no problem? What is it?
Where are you coming from?
I… I went outside for some air.
Your lover…
What did you say?
Your lover…
the moon?
"The moon is a gentle lover", just like you said.
Oh, I didn't know that's what you were referring to.
Ah. Don't pay attention to some of the rubbish I say sometimes.
Hmm.
Just tell me what the matter is? Tell me.
Tell me where you are coming from.
I already told you.
I said I went to get some air.
Liar!
My mother was right.
You're a whore! Husband-snatcher!
Ah, Omowunmi.
'Mowunmi!
Mother!
Omowunmi!
-What happened? -Mother!
What happened?
-Speak up, I'm listening. -My mother!
What happened?
-What did I do? -You're wanted at the palace.
Saro the betrayer!
Saro.
What a pity.
People of Oyo…
Your Royal Highness.
Oyo chiefs…
-Your Royal Highness. -Your Highness.
This is a betrayer.
Oyo receives everyone from far and wide.
Yes.
We did welcome you.
And you had the guts to pierce the eye of Oyo with a sharp stick you are holding.
Not even a king dares try this with me.
But you, a stranger had the guts to.
Oh yes.
How dare you?!
-The king does not suggest. -Yes.
-The king decrees. -Yes.
-You guards… -Your Highness.
Take this criminal, and treat him exactly the way he deserves.
Long live the king.
Saro the betrayer!
-Move! -Saro the betrayer!
Saro the betrayer!
You're such a betrayer!
Betrayer! You're such a betrayer! Betrayer!
You're a betrayer.
Anyone who betrays must be killed.
Betrayer.
You're such a betrayer.
Betrayer.
Useless betrayer.
You can see he's a betrayer.
Saro.
Sorry.
I'm sorry. Please let's leave.
They're gone. Let's leave.
Saro. Look at me.
Saro.
Please stand.Saro?
Saro.
Saro!
Hmm.
Saro…
Arise, mortal.
You don't deserve to be alive.
Go back to your death.
Sorry. Stand up.
Sorry.
Let's go.
Yeah.
-Arolake… -Yes?
Arolake, don't let go.
I'm tired.
Please, let's sit over there.
Let's sit there. I'm feeling so drowsy.
-I feel pain all over my body. -Sorry.
Here, please. I can't go any further.
-Ah. -Take it easy.
Sorry.
Sit. Sit here.
I am tired.
I can't go any further.
I just hope we don't die here in this forest.
Saro.
My entire body hurts.
I am so hungry.
We should have just stayed and been killed.
Arolake, don't think in such a manner.
Don't think that way.
Sit here and wait for me.
Let me go check for anything we can eat nearby.
Where? Where will you look for something for us to eat?
Let me check the surroundings first.
Probably we could see something light to eat.
Ah. I can't stay alone here.
What if you miss your way and can't come back to me?
I won't go far, I also can't miss my way.
I'm coming. You just relax.
You hear? I'm coming.
-Saro. -Yes, Arolake.
Please don't abandon me.
I can't abandon you, Arolake.
I can't leave you, no matter what.
I'm coming.
Just keep resting, I'm coming.
Ah. Food.
Sorry.
Where did you find pawpaw?
-Close by. -Thank you.
Bring yours. Mine looks softer than yours.
Let me help you peel yours. You can't peel it.
Ah. This is hard.
What did you hide when I was coming?
Nothing. I didn't hide anything.
You're eating slowly.
Hmm?
-What did you say? -Do not eat… the thing…
inside. The seed.
Hey! A river!
Take it easy. Take it easy. Don't fall.
Let me help you out.
-Thank you. -Alright. Here.
Alright. Take this.
Don't make me fall.
Arolake, let's keep moving. Let's just forge ahead.
I'm sure we'll get to a town soon.
Isn't this a cassava farm?
It's just--
Good day, travelers.
-Good day. -Father.
Where are you going and coming from?
Ah. We are glad to see you. Please is there a town nearby?
Er… Ojumo town isn't far.
But if you keep walking on foot like this,
you can't get to Ojumo before dark.
We don't have a choice. If that's the case we don't mind trekking.
Okay.
You travelers, hear this before you take your leave.
They say, "Obedience to the gods is better than a sacrifice to the gods."
If you can find your way, I'm fine with it.
But I want you to understand this, this road is plagued with slave traders.
There are many.
If you press further,
the both of you will surely get captured and enslaved.
Ah. Sir, please what do we do now?
Eh…
The thing is…
I have a hut in the forest
where I stay when I hunt late into the night.
If you like, you can come along and sleep there.
And by tomorrow morning you can head this way to Ojumo.
No. I can't return into that evil forest.
Ah. Hold on. Who are you both?
What are your names and where are you from?
What kind of people are you?
-Sir, hold on, please. -Where are you from?
Let's just say, we've come from a far place.
It's very far.
Please. We're going to the town.
Please, sir.
-Alright. -Please.
Okay. If you like, follow me to my hut in the forest.
If you like, leave.
You'll be turned to slaves.
Greetings to Ogun in our midst,
the patron god of hunters.
If given a sacrifice, it won't be accepted because of the frog's bladder.
Greetings, travelers.
Tell me, what is your name?
Eh, Saro.
-Saro is your name? -Saro. Saro is my name.
-And your wife? -It's Arolake, sir.
Arolake. Take this.
Look.
You can relax here.
Here's a seat. Do not be scared.
I want to go hunting. But I'm not going far away.
Er… if you're really tired, and you feel sleepy,
you can go in, to the hut.
If you want to ease yourself, you will go into the forest.
This is a pot, there's water in it.
-You can roast some yam to eat. -Thank you.
-Don't be scared. -Thank you.
Good day.
OJUMO TOWN
-Greetings, hunter. -Greetings.
-Thank you. -Welcome.
Thank you very much.
-Ogun reigns. -He reigns. Welcome.
Thank you.
-Bless you. -Amen.
We are at the entrance of home now.
If you like, you can choose to stay with us.
My house is your house.
If you prefer, you can continue on your journey.
Or you can do whatever you wish.
-Lord have mercy. -Akin!
My child.
Akin my child.
What's the matter?
What's going on?
Excuse me.
What's wrong?
Akin!
Mopelola.
This can't be!
Akin!
Akin, my child.
This can't be! Akin! Akin!
Get up and look at me.
Akin, I ask you to rise and stand!
Oh Akin!
-Ah, what a pity. -Oh, Akin!
-Akin is gone? -He's gone.
-Do I really deserve this? -Not at all.
Oh!
-Saro. -Yes? What is it? Look.
Our lives are about to change.
How do you mean?
Remember, I told you I saw how the mystical Akala bird brought you to life?
Yes.
-Take this. -What is this?!
Don't shout.
Akala's power.
Akala's power?
This is what the Akala used to bring you back from the dead.
When I chased the bird away from you, this dropped.
And I picked it up. Here, take it.
No. Why should I collect it from you?
-Saro. -Huh?
Listen to me.
This is not the time to be a coward. And you must not be afraid.
I never wanted to tell you.
I decided to wait for the right time.
And here it is.
-Take it and be a man. -I can't touch it.
Don't you understand yet?
It is very potent.
And a great one has died.
This power will change our lives.
And I believe God has blessed us with it.
Just take a look.
What do you think will happen if you have the power to raise the dead?
Who will console me?
-Who will console me? -Akin is gone!
Who will console me?
-Akin. -Akin, stand up!
Stand up!
Akin, stand up!
Stand up! Akin, stand up!
Arise!
-Help! -Help!
-Help me! -What is this?
He is awake. Help me! My darling.
Akin!
Akin. Akin.
I swear he is alive.
Akin. Akin.
Visitor.
If one wanders far enough one will find a hunchback squirrel.
I never knew
any man existed on earth created by God with the power to resurrect.
Yes. Welcome.
-Let's just be thankful. -We thank God.
-I thank you both. -We thank you.
I thank you.
-You both won't weep over your children. -Amen.
-Alright. -Thank you.
Look, visitors…
This is palm wine.
When you're done eating, top it with this.
This is original palm wine tapped here.
Wine from the oil palm.
We cherish the Lord.
Good day, hunter.
King's Mouthpiece.
We hear you host a resurrectionist.
Yes, King's Mouthpiece.
He's summoned by the palace.
Hope there's no problem?
No problem.
Okay. Once he's done eating. We will both follow you.
No. Just him. Or do you now raise the dead?
No.
Get up.
I am the King's mouthpiece.
Anything I say is from the king.
When we get to the palace, just bow down,
and answer all questions very clearly. Understood?
Stand up. Hurry. You just sit here.
Be calm, continue eating.
-Your Royal Highness. -Welcome.
-The king greets you. -Thank you.
Are you the man called Anikulapo?
Look, our friend,
speak up, so the king can hear you well.
My name is not Anikulapo, Great King.
So what is your name? And where are you from?
Saro… is my name, Your Highness.
And I am from Gbogan town.
Gbogan…
Gbogan… You are far from home.
Yes. I have traveled through many lands.
I am only passing through your land, King.
So you really did raise that boy to life?
Yes.
In the presence of many witnesses.
And you can do it again?
May death be far from us, Great King.
-Amen. -Amen.
But there's nothing God cannot do.
Please, our friend.
Tell me, where did you come across this kind of power?
This type of mighty power?
Oh yes. It is the truth. We were all scared.
I've only heard it in history, that the dead is resurrected.
But for witnesses to testify
that someone resurrected the dead,
that everybody confirms. You are the first.
I don't know of any human being,
either dead or alive,
who has this kind of great power you possess.
Even though I'm yet to witness it. But…
we advice you. Stay with us, even if it is for a while.
Er… Live with us.
Be our friend. We love visitors. Isn't it so?
That's the truth. Yes.
We love and welcome people.
Look, there's nothing you bring into our village that we don't accept.
And you shall not be ashamed.
-Amen. -Your Royal Highness.
Please I will like to suggest…
that we inform the chief priest Fakunle
of this latest happening immediately.
Thank you, Your Highness. Thank you.
Thank you.
Listen, what does the king look like?
They say he is dumb.
Come on.Arolake.
He is not dumb.
I heard he only speaks through a mouthpiece.
Yes.
What I heard is that, it is an abomination for him to speak in public.
He speaks to his queen and the children.
He also speaks to the chief priest during rites and propitiation.
Then why doesn't he speak publicly?
Or was it a heavenly judgement?
Hmm.
Let's not be deceived. I do not understand it.
Some people say…
that he swore an oath a few years ago
exchanging his tongue for power in order to conquer his enemies.
Hmm.
Some people also say,
the last time he spoke was when he saw his father being slaughtered like an animal
-during a war. -Aww.
-What a pity. -Ah.
That's so bad.
But only God knows that which is true or false.
-Who knows? -Ah.
Oh well.
My guardian.
Hm.
We are now successful.
Here it is.
Hey.
So what next now?
-Now we just live in enjoyment. -Yes.
-In happiness. -Yes
And joy. Or what else?
Yes. It's the truth.
Hmm. However, I'm thinking about work.
-Work? -Yes. What will we eat?
We will starve.
Saro.
We can never starve again.
-Don't you understand? -Help me understand. Explain.
Will I spend all my time raising the dead?
Or will I feed food in exchange for raising their dead?
-I'm only asking. -Saro, the aso-ofi weaver.
-My love. -The love of my life.
-My wife. -Be patient.
A patient dog eats the fattest bone.
I'm patient but no job prospects.
Anikulapo! Anikulapo! Please, save us.
Come and save us.
-Anikulapo! Put her down. -Anikulapo!
Help us, please.
Anikulapo!
-Saro! -Yes?
Wake up. You are being called outside.
-Anikulapo! Anikulapo, save us! -Who…
Who is that?
Anikulapo, come and help us!
Save us!
Come and save us!
-Save us now! -Please stop crying.
-God will make him succeed. -Amen.
Please. Help us.
Arise!
Thank you!
-We're grateful. Thank you. -Thank you.
-How can we thank you enough?
Thank you so much.
Okay, stand up.
-Leave her. -Rise.
Ah. Lord help me.
Arise!
What?! Anikulapo, I'm grateful!
My brother.
Akanmu. Oh, thank you Saro.
Please!
-My mother. -Don't go.
God, I thank you. Old woman.
-What's the problem? -Thank you, Lord.
-I said let me rest in peace. -Please don't go.
-Ah-ah. -Please don't leave yet.
What is it?
Who asked for help?
Ah.
How many are left now?
About six more.
Yes, it's exactly six.
Or should I make it four?
-Please make it fast. -I'm sorry.
Good day.
Welcome.
Your Royal Highness.
Chiefs, I greet you all.
As we all know, they say two heads are better than one.
It is about the strange man who came to our village,
who calls himself a resurrectionist,
Anikulapo… that is what I want us to discuss.
A dog which refuses to heed to my words,
becomes a sacrificial dog.
A sheep which refuses to heed to my words,
becomes a sacrificial sheep.
Whoever I advise but refuses to heed,
leave him,
let him continue with his ways.
He will live to regret it.
Just like Orunmila
consulted the god of the river Olokun to learn swimming,
it took him four years to learn one style,
six months for another style,
and a longer period to complete the training.
Whatever you sow, you reap.
Just be patient to see the repercussions.
Just let him be.
Old man.
Old man. Please tell me,
what has Anikulapo done to offend you
that made you come report him at the palace
and also decide that we send him away?
Why do you want him sent away?
Stop calling him Anikulapo.
He is Anikulapo!
-Yes. -Does he have death in his porch?
Or does he control death?
Someone who will die soon.
Ah-ah.
-Otun… -Hmm?
Don't you understand? Are you a child?
-Oh, please. -He is just jealous, that's all.
-It's jealousy, alright. -Me?
-It's jealousy. -You're jealous of him.
-My goodness. -With all your power?
At this your age, Chief Priest,
you then recited such a long divination.
You're just being a hypocrite.
What wrong has he done?
We don't understand.
Please think of the future.
Because everything you do, will be recorded in history.
Members of Council, let us be patient.
You know Chief Priest Fakunle sees in and out very well.
All that he has been saying might actually be the truth.
They say I'm jealous.
Jealous of whom?
When did I become so useless to you all?
Er… Everyone,
Chief Priest Fakunle,
the other chiefs don't mean to humiliate you.
They're trying their best to understand you properly.
We all know the kind of person Anikulapo is.
Also, all the wonderful things he has done in this village
and in the neighboring villages.
Does he do it for free? Well, he gets paid.
He is just so free within the village.
You don't know where he came from.
You don't know the source of his power.
Tell him to bring the gourd so we can examine it.
Omowon!
-Omowon! -I'm coming!
-My eyes. -What's wrong?
-What happened? -Omowon.
Something fell into my eye.
-Ah. -Please blow it off.
Come closer. Closer. Come closer! Blow it off.
My eyes.
-I can't see. Can't you blow it properly? -I've blown it.
Ah, yeh.
Don't rub it. Don't…
Ah!
-Bow down. -Welcome.
Your Royal Highness.
The king, our father, greets you.
Thank you.
It's good like that.
Thank you.
Anikulapo, the king greets you.
No one in this village can deny the knowledge of your ability
and also deny the greatness and extent of your massive contribution
-in this village, -Yes.
and the other neighboring villages that surround us.
Yes.
Thank you.
-The king blesses you. -Amen.
Amen, amen.
However, we are bothered…
and seek to understand in detail
what kind of power you possess and its source.
My power is from God, Your Highness.
That's all.
It is true.
Everyone knows that God is powerful.
This power that you use, did you learn it?
Or you inherited it?
What the chief priest wants you to make us understand is,
what is the real source of your power?
Ah. Did I offend anyone?
-Not at all. -You didn't offend anybody.
With all of your good deeds.
I feel attacked by you all.
No.
Do not think that at all.
No one is attacking you.
In fact, we love you in this village
and we see all the good things you have done in this village,
not just here and our neighboring villages.
You deserve where two initiates meet,
they exchange coded greetings. This is our chief priest.
Do you understand? He just wants to know
the source of your power in full details.
And also, if there will be any dire consequences
for this village
and other neighboring villages in the future.
-That's all. -Nothing more than that.
You've offended no one.
-I thought as much. -Let's not beat around the bush.
That's right. Mh-mh-mh.
I do not have to tell anyone the source of my power.
I won't say it.
Surrender the gourd to us.
Would it work if anyone else tries to use it?
Ah-ah.
Wait a minute… Not at all. Really?
Why should I do that? When I'm not possessed.
Possessed?
Chief Priest, can you dream as you are?
The power that you have, can you surrender it to someone else?
Anikulapo, this matter isn't so serious.
We are just being curious.
The chief priest only wants to examine your gourd
to know if the power is harmful to the people
and the village at large.
That's it.
At this point, if you want me to leave your village,
I will leave.
-It's not so. -Ah.
But for me to surrender the gourd to you,
it's not possible.
If anyone aside from me,
Saro Tewogbola, touches the gourd,
such a person is ready to die untimely.
-God forbid. -Lord, do not let us die untimely.
-Just leave. -Help us, help us!
Your Highness.
Your Highness, it's the truth.
He speaks the truth.
Did you hear it?
Call him back, he is leaving.
-We will not experience such. -Call him back, he's leaving.
-Has he made any sense? -You are too mean.
Hey.
Hey. Omowon, hey! Stand up.
What's the matter with you? What's wrong?
You are pregnant.
What? Don't you know you're pregnant?
It's not a problem.
Whoever is responsible needs to know, and take responsibility.
Right?
Can't you speak up?
Good day.
Welcome. You've been gone long.
Thank you. What is going on here?
Nothing really.
This doesn't look like nothing.
What's wrong with her? What did you do?
Speak up!
-She's pregnant. -What?
-Omowon. -Yes?
You're pregnant?
Really?
-Saro… -Yes?
What have you done now?
Forgive me please. I'm sorry.
I'm sorry. Please ma, please forgive me.
Omowon, you can take your leave.
Ah.
Arolake.
Please don't take this to heart.
It's not a big deal.
It's not a big deal?
Saro?
It's not a big deal?
Tsk, ahh.
Hmm.
Arolake.
We ought to have had this conversation.
And I guess it's time we did.
It's true.
I impregnated Omowon.
Arolake, it's our child.
The child is for all of us.
Come to think of it,
my love is yours and will always be yours. Always.
No matter what.
But for how long will we remain like this,
Arolake?
Without children in our home,
Arolake?
You also know that to build a strong household,
we need to have children in our home.
You know this.
Arolake. Arolake, please.
Arolake, think about it, please.
We all have our uses here in the palace.
For some of us, are you listening?
We are to bear royal sons and daughters for His Highness.
But you,
yours is different.
You're just nothing but for the king's pleasure.
-Bimpe, let's go. -I'm almost done.
Ah.
You look beaut… you look good already, Bimpe.
Ah. Tsk.
Bimpe please, come help me adjust my cap.
Come help me out. Check if it really fits.
Is it okay?
My husband, my darling.
The cap fits your head perfectly.
Come here. Don't go.
What's the matter?
What's wrong this time?
Why do you find joy in mistreating my children always?
You must find a reason to make them cry.
Give her to me.
What exactly is it?
What is going on here?
I didn't stop you from giving birth to your children.
Sorry, it's okay. It's okay.
You keep making the children cry always.
Omowon, that is enough!
It's okay.
Why does she beat my child?
Is it because of her useless beads?
I say it's enough, Omowon!
Nonsense!
Sorry, dear. Sorry. It's okay.
And you too,
you should keep your things out of the reach of her children.
Sorry, my dear Banke.
Sorry.
Now the child is crying again.
She should keep her things properly, away from the children's reach.
It's enough.
If you lay a finger on my children again,
I assure you, it won't go down well between us.
-Nonsense. -Omowon, I say it's enough!
It's okay, my baby. Play with your elder brother.
Where are these boys? Er… Mongudu!
My Master!
Come and help madam pick up her beads.
It's okay. I don't need help.
What did the poor man do to you, pretentious Queen?
Why did you say such a thing?
A matter we discussed secretly .
and you just blurted it out like that?
And so what? Please. How is that a secret?
Is it because she is barren or was once a Queen?
Please, let's be on our way. Don't make a mountain out of an anthill.
You eventually revealed my secret to that little witch you call your wife.
Right?
Arolake. Listen, it's not what you think it is.
-It's not what I think it is? -Yes. It's not so.
No problem.
Hear me out.
Is it not enough that you broke my heart and neglected me?
Is it not enough that you turned me into an object of mockery
before your wives and everyone?
Do you want to kill me too before you stop?
Come on. Kill you how?
What do you think will happen
if word gets out that the fugitive wife of the great Alaafin
is alive and well,
living as someone else's wife in Ojumo?
Arolake,
you have nothing to worry about.
Hmm.
I didn't really tell her anything.
If I put you in danger,
wouldn't I be in danger, too?
Or do you think I'll be less in trouble?
Come on.
My guardian, Arolake, let me hold you--
Get away, please!
Ah. Tsk.
What a shame.
What a fool I've been.
At least, as the wife of the great king of Oyo,
I was the favorite one.
The king's favorite.
Like the moon, above all others.
And the king loved me.
He loved me so dearly.
I've now become an object of mockery to you,
this highly ungrateful beast of a man!
What?!
How dare you say that?!
You dare talk to me like that?
Arolake.
My husband, you're awake.
They have a message from the palace.
Your Royal Highness. I've seen your messenger.
The King greets you.
Oh. Thank you.
Truly the king sent for you.
You can see what's happened. The prince is dead.
Ah! This can't be.
-He's dead. -No.
I said he's dead.
Anikulapo. Please bring my son back.
What a pity.
The prince is dead.
Anikulapo.
Please, resurrect my son.
Anything you so desire
in this village and anywhere else, I will give you.
Just bring my son back, Anikulapo.
This is too much, Your Highness. It is too much.
This is an easy task.
-I'll resurrect your son, Your Highness. -Ah, thank you.
And it will not cost you much.
But first,
allow me to have a private meeting with you.
-Easy. -Take it easy, Your Highness.
Easy.
Your Royal Highness.
-My Lord, easy. -Take it easy, My Lord.
Take it easy.
Take it easy. Please.
We do not know what he requested.
Please.
Anikulapo.
So you had the guts… my daughter?
That's what I want. It's not much.
I only want the princess as my wife.
I have been paid way more than that
by people who appreciate my power.
How much more from the King.
Anikulapo. You're very bold.
Come on! You useless ungrateful man.
After all I've done for you
with all we have done for you,
so, this is how you repay my kindness?
Ungrateful in what way?
What special thing did any of you in Ojumo do for me?
What do I have in this land that I didn't earn on my own?
Come on. The way I see it… are you listening?
You are the ungrateful one.
-Ungrateful fellow. -Abomination.
The gods must not hear this.
Anikulapo!
-You utter this? -Look, listen to me.
This offer is not up for any discussion.
I will resurrect your prince.
Afterwards, you will give me your daughter's hand in marriage.
When you are ready, Your Highness,
the death capturer will be waiting at home.
Anikulapo, please bring my son back.
Let's give him the princess. She doesn't have a husband.
Please.
My condolences.
No! You don't have to draw your dagger.
Let the prince's death be paramount to us, more than marriage.
Please.
Let him resurrect him.
Let him marry her.
Wake my son, Your Highness.
Royal Highness.
Wake my son, Your Highness.
You man, I heard something this morning.
But I don't know how true it is.
Tell me about it.
You know my aunt is the queen's maid at the palace.
That's right.
She told me that Prince Adeoye had a serious fever all through the night.
And then by dawn this morning,
the prince had passed on.
Goodness! Is he dead or only sleeping?
Ah-ah.
The strange thing is they kept it a secret,
because they want Anikulapo to resurrect him.
Yes… our master will sort it out.
This should not be a hard task for him.
-Oh, yes. -This is not a hard task, indeed.
Anikulapo said that
if Princess Ajoke is not married off to him,
he's not going to raise Prince Adeoye.
Keep quiet.
-Look, sir. -Keep quiet.
-I have to plead with you. Look, listen. -Okay. Let's keep working.
I beg you in the name of God, do not tell anyone.
-No one must hear this. -Yes.
Okay.
Yes.
Good day.
Welcome.
-Where are the children? -They're sleeping inside.
Welcome, my husband.
Bring my food.
How was the meeting?
-Very well. -Thank God.
I'm coming.
-Welcome. -Thank you.
Thank you.
Where is Arolake?
She's gone.
She's gone, where?
How should I know when she is not going to use my list of work?
She has packed all her rubbish. And she is gone.
Excuse me, if you don't mind. I want to go take a nap.
King's Messenger.
The King has agreed and says you should come immediately.
He has agreed!
Your Royal Highness.
Welcome.
The King greets you.
Anikulapo, you received the king's message.
Mh. You have agreed.
Not only the king agreed.
Every one of us has agreed.
The King agreed. The Queen agreed.
Even the princess you wish to marry has consented to marrying you.
As long as you resurrect her brother.
No problem.
I'll raise your prince.
-Hmm. -Well done.
I think he's communicating with the gods.
He brings out what he is going to use.
He's showing it to the gods so they'll give him strength.
Let's see.
Well done.
Mhm.
The gods have arrived.
Well done.
Let's be patient.
Arise!
Do rise up.
Be patient.
Please rise up.
Arise!
This is the second time.
Let him try the third time.
Anikulapo or whatever your name is,
why is it taking so long?
He's not wasting time. This is how he does it.
-This is how he does it. Be patient. -This is the second time.
This is how he does it whenever he wakes the dead.
Who says he can't do it?
Arise!
-Prince, you're summoned to arise! -Please wake up.
-Answer us! -Ah.
-Ah, I'm burning in hell fire! -Right.
I'm burning in hell fire. Prince, rise up!
Subtitle translation by: Ayolope Koiki