Moonlight Whispers
Long ago, in the great kingdom of Ìlàárí, the full moon bathed the land in its soft glow, whispering secrets of love to those who dared to listen. Among those who listened was Adùnní, a humble palace maid, and Ọdẹ́wálé, the crown prince of the kingdom. Adùnní was the daughter of Bàbá Ògúnmọ̀lá, a well-respected herbalist in the village. Though poor, her kindness and beauty shone brighter than the wealthiest of noble daughters. Ọdẹ́wálé, the future king, was drawn to her gentle nature and unwavering spirit. Each night, when the palace fell silent, they met under the great ìrókò tree in the palace courtyard, where the moon bore witness to their forbidden love. “Ọdẹ́wálé, your mother will never accept me,” Adùnní whispered one night, worry clouding her bright eyes. “She will,” Ọdẹ́wálé assured her, holding her hands. “My love for you is stronger than any law or tradition.” But the queen, Olórí Àyìnkẹ́, had different plans. She wanted her son to marry a princess, a woman of noble birth who...