The Basket Weaver



In the heart of Ìlùká village, where the river sang and the trees whispered secrets, lived a girl named Adùn. She was as beautiful as the sunrise, with skin like smooth mahogany and eyes that held the depth of ancient wisdom. Though she was poor, she wove the finest baskets in the land—so delicate, yet strong, that even the king’s messengers sought her craft.

But Adùn was more than just a basket weaver. She was sharp-minded, observant, and full of wisdom beyond her years. Elders often marveled at the way she solved disputes among market women and how she always found a way through difficult situations.

One day, the kingdom of Ìlùká faced a great dilemma—a long-standing puzzle that no one could solve. The oracle had spoken: Only the one with true wisdom shall bring the answer, and she will sit beside the prince as queen. The challenge was presented across the land, but every noble and scholar failed.

When Adùn heard of the puzzle, she could not resist the call of destiny. With confidence, she stepped into the palace, where the prince, Ọdẹ́wálé, and his council watched. With a calm voice and a sharp mind, she unraveled the mystery with such brilliance that even the oldest advisers were left in awe.

Prince Ọdẹ́wálé, who had always dreamed of a wise and strong queen, knew in that moment—Adùn was the one. He married her despite her humble beginnings, and she was crowned Queen of Ìlùká.

As queen, Adùn ruled with grace, wisdom, and fairness. She solved village disputes with the same skill she once used to weave her baskets—threading together broken pieces to form something whole and beautiful. Under her reign, Ìlùká prospered, and her name was spoken with respect across the land.

The poor basket weaver had become the most revered queen in history—not because of her beauty, but because of the brilliance of her mind.

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