Original subtitles

-[crickets chirping] -[ominous music playing]

[mystical bird screeches]

-[bird screeches loudly] -[man gasps]

[exhales heavily]

[male narrator] When someone dies in Yoruba land,

they are not buried.

[birds chirping]

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 was buried in Yoruba land,

before the turn of time.

Times changed,

and now we dig the ground to bury the dead.

[thunderclap]

The Ifa oracle says that

the Akala bird

has power of resurrection.

When people die…

-[bird wings fluttering] -…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 oracle divination, called the "Idin'osun,"

[drums beating softly]

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 his palace would 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…

[bird crowing]

…can you not see the prophecy has been fulfilled?!"

-[man gasping for air] -[haunting music playing]

[man gasping]

[bird screeching]

[in mystical bird language] What is the cause of your death?

[human gasping]

-[drums beating rhythmically] -[women singing in Yoruba]

-[drumming continues] -[crowd in Yoruba] Your Royal Highness!

-[ominous music playing] -[man] Greetings.

[man] Greetings.

[man] Young man!

You look like you've traveled a long way to see the festival.

I'm not here for the festival.

-What festival? -Uh huh. And you look this dirty.

Well, stay on the right side of the law.

-Keep moving. -Thank you.

Be careful!

[epic adventure music playing]

[indistinct market chatter]

[dramatic music swelling gradually]

[rooster crows]

-[woman1] Well done. -[men] Our mother.

-[woman1] Welcome. -[men] Good morning.

[woman1] You are very much welcome. Er…like I said?

[horses neighing]

-[man snoring] -[woman1] Who is this sleeping here?

[woman2] We don't know.

Go, get to work.

[woman1 clears throat]

[snoring continues]

-[woman1] Good day… -[snoring stops abruptly]

Who are you?

Where did you come from?

[man scratches throat]

[man] I'm just a traveler. Good morning.

-[woman1] 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. I'm not upset.

-[woman1] A traveler… -[man] Yes.

[woman1] …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 market 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? -[scratches throat] 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.

[woman] Don't go yet.

Let me get you some food. Yes.

When you finish your food,

-[woman] you can then move on. -[Saro] Thank you.

-[Saro] Thank you, ma. -No need to mention. Stand up.

[woman] Erm… You'll go help me buy…

[bellows blowing air]

[spluttering angrily] Is that what you came here to learn?

Huh? Bastard!

[metal clinging]

[man singing in Yoruba]

[men] 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 those?

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!

[men] Your Highness.

Long live… Long live the King!

I would rather advise… everyone go home,

sleep over it well,

and have a rethink.

By this time tomorrow,

if we would fight a war, we'll know. If not, we'll know.

-Let's take our leave. -[chiefs] Your Highness.

[soft rhythmic traditional music playing]

[woman1] Good day, mothers. Good day.

[woman2] Ah! Hairdresser. Welcome.

[hairdresser] Good day, our mothers.

[woman3] Hairdresser. Good day.

[hairdresser] Thank you, ma.

-[woman2] The royal hairdresser. -[hairdresser] Thank you, ma.

Who have you come for today?

It is Queen Arolake that sent for me, ma.

-[woman2] It is well with you. -[hairdresser] Amen.

-[woman2] Do a good job on her hair. -[hairdresser] Yes, ma.

-[hairdresser] Thank you, ma. -[woman2] Oh, please.

Er, Princess Kikelomo!

[woman2] 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.

[woman4] 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,

Queen Arolake should come out herself

and if she can't come out

She should go conceive, so she could send her children.

on any errand she wants.

If she doesn't have any child to send,

then you can call your children

-to send them on errands. -Yes.

[woman4] Please send your own children on errands.

-Queen Arolake! -Princess.

-Yes. -Hmm.

Your hair is really full.

-[traditional flute playing] -[Arolake chuckles softly]

Er… the hairdresser you sent for has arrived.

Good. I'm coming.

[ranting] Queen, let us be! let us be oh!

[queen1 scoffs]

Both of you… will soon die of your jealousy.

You were both wedded after me.

And someone else will be wedded after you.

-[queen2] Mother, do not shout. -[queen3] Mother, do not 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!

[Queen Arolake] Amen.

[queen1] You won't come and go empty handed.

-[queen2 scoffs, laughs] -Our mother the soothsayer! [laughs]

[queen1] It's all good. We are all in it together.

-[rhythmic drum beating] -[indistinct market chatter]

Saro, the aso-ofi weaver from Gbogan.

-Is my meal delicious? -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 weaving work.

I don't know how to do anything else.

Hmm. I heard you.

I know. I know you're an aso-ofi weaver.

But I don't see any sign.

I don't any signs that you are ready to work.

Or do you have money somewhere and you're not telling me?

-[indistinct market chatter] -Uh…I do not have.

Right. I thought so. That's what made me ask you.

Er, Saro, why not work for a while?

While you work, you'll make money, you save up,

and then set up your trade.

-Hmm? -Ah.

I had hoped to find a weaver here

who would be willing to partner with me for a start.

[chuckling]

Saro, the aso-ofi weaver from Gbogan.

How childish. You are very funny.

If you can accept my suggestion, I can offer you work.

When I offer you work, you'll make money.

You will 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?

[rhythmic music plays]

-[woman] Well done, everyone. -[workers] Welcome, ma.

-[woman] How's the work going? -[worker] Very well.

[woman] Has the woman come for her pots yet?

[worker] She has come for them.

-[woman] Does she want more? -[worker] Yes, she does.

-[woman] Okay, that's good. -[workers] Welcome, ma.

-[woman] Well done. Is the clay good? -[workers] Welcome.

-[worker] Yes, it's good. -[woman] Very good. Well done.

-[worker] Our mother oh. -[woman] Well done.

[indistinct chatter]

-[woman] We have a visitor. -[workers] Great. Welcome.

-Thank you. Well done. -Well done.

[workers] Great.

[woman] His name is Saro.

-[workers] Saro…Welcome Saro. -[woman] Exactly.

[woman] Yes. He came to join us in our work.

-[workers] Oh, that's good. -[woman] You'll work together.

[workers] That's great.

Saro… They say, "Make hay while the sun shines."

This is the work, Saro.

[worker grunts]

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?

[whispering] Ah Ah. Saro…

Our friend, look… our works 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.

-[laughs] Well done. -Our mother.

You see, Saro, it's up to you now.

[horse snorting]

[mumbles] Uh, no.

-Good day, ma. -Well done.

Queen.

Queen Wojuola.

[Queen Wojuola] Ah. Who is it?

Queen Arolake.

-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.

Ahh! The mirror I used and gave back to you immediately?

-It's still with you. -Uh-huh!

Well, as you can see, I don't tie mirrors around my waist.

When I return to my chamber,

I will go and look for your mirror, and I will bring it to you in your chamber.

Do you hear?

[sarcastically] I don't know why some people are not tired of looking

only at themselves day and night.

You, in this palace? We shall see.

[tense music playing]

-[Saro] Good night. -[women] Good night.

-[woman] Good night. -Our visitor from Gbogan.

I am no one's visitor.

-Ah. Alright. Good night oh. -Good night.

Don't stay too long before going home.

[laughs] You know what they say happens in the marketplace at nightfall.

What do they say?

Eh, if you stay late in the marketplace, your eyes will see.

[man] Hurry! Hurry! Hurry!

[suspenseful music playing]

[man] We don't stay late at the market.

[woman] Ajiun's mother, can't you wait for me?

[man] Are you leaving me behind?

-[woman] Your Highness. -[king] Hmm? My dear Wojuola.

-[king] My beautiful queen. -[Wojuola] Yes.

[king praising] The apple of my eyes. The one that gives me joy.

-[king chuckles] -[Wojuola] Mh-hmm.

-[Wojuola] Your Highness. -[king] Yes?

Why did you neglect me?

-Is it me? -Yes.

It's been a while you visited my chamber.

You must have noticed something.

-Uh! -You're my favorite.

Why should I neglect you?

[Wojuola] 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…that little girl's chamber.

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.

-[king grunts] -[splutters] Your Highness,

-please do not misunderstand me. -[king] Look, erm… [hisses]

You see, this life is not as hard as you think.

Your Highness, please don't take me serious.

Life cannot be relied upon.

There is no love without jealousy, Your Highness.

Look, I'm tired.

You're really getting dressed? Your Highness.

[king grunts]

Your Highness, please stay a little longer. Come back.

-Please-- -[king] Look, excuse me please.

[rhythmic music playing]

[king grunts]

[groaning] I'm here. Arolake my dear.

Ah, Your Highness, please don't touch me.

-Why? -It's not my night.

Who told you it's not your turn tonight?

[amused] 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 true. I'm not lying.

-Uh huh? -It came a little early.

I think it's the different fertility herbs

I've been taking recently that keeps changing my cycle.

-Huh? Fertility mixtures? -Yes.

Well, if that is it, there are ways around these things.

-Don't worry. I know what to do. Tsk. -Really?

-Come close to me. -Your Highness.

-What is it? -Your Highness,

-[Arolake] don't behave like those-- -Excuse me, please.

[crickets chirping]

[suspenseful music plays]

[lively rhythmic music plays]

-[goat bleats] -[indistinct market chatter]

[woman1] Alright. Help me.

Please, who amongst you is Saro?

It's me.

Take it from Awarun.

[Saro] Thank you.

Hurry up. Hurry up.

Please, what are you people standing there gawking at?

[woman] Take your own food and be grateful.

[kitchen maid] Will you eat or not?

-Here it is. Are you taking it or not? -[workers clamoring]

[workers] My goodness.

-[kitchen maid] Take this. -[indistinct chatter]

[kitchen maid] Don't push. Here it is. Take your meal.

-[kitchen maid] Please, pass it to him. -[male worker] Where's my own food?

-[worker1] Give us our food. -[worker2] 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 could have sent it through one of the little ones.

Uh! 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 that the best gifts are given to?

My Queen, you're the king's favorite.

The rest of us don't entice him.

-Is that so? -Yes.

Then why does he always abandon my bed…

only to creep into yours when it's my turn?

[ominous bang]

[crickets chirping]

Are you surprised… how I got to know?

You miserable woman.

-You witch! Full of hate. Ah! -I am not a witch oh.

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?

You mean a king that 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 just nothing but for the king's pleasure.

Oh yes! You're useful for nothing else. Listen.

[suspenseful music plays]

This is a warning. Listen carefully.

The next time 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.

[mirror shattering]

[mournful music plays]

[tender music playing]

[crickets chirping]

-[horse snorts] -[indistinct market chatter]

Faster. Faster.

[man] Our friend from Gbogan!

-Hey. -Good morning.

Ah, she's a married woman, you know?

Who?

[chuckles] Awarun.

Awarun has the form of a woman but she is a man.

[man chuckles]

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?

[laughs]

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 squarely.

-Oh really? -Yes.

But not you, right?

Mmh. 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. Huh.

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.

[shouting] Keep quiet!

What nonsense are you saying?!

It's not your fault. Eeh? I've done my part.

-Keep at it. Hmm? -[ominous gong beats]

Come on, hasten up! Hasten up!

[queen2] Hey! Here she comes.

[woman] Roaming heedlessly like a sheep. Here she is.

Pick them. Pick them. Pick them properly.

-[queen2 scoffs] She has started acting up -Take it easy.

Rubbish.

What?! What?!

What?! Denike!

[queen2] Anike!

Haven't I warned you not to go close to her again?

-Come on, leave this place. Ahh! -[queen1] Take it easy!

Go sleep if you're not busy. Get inside! Come on go inside.

Huh? Can you imagine, my Queen.

[queen1] Er, you really have to calm down.

Aah aah! They were only helping her to pick her beads.

Is it a crime to help?

Why did you beat the innocent children? What is it?

Excuse me, our mother. Everyone in this palace know me.

[queen2] I do not cross my boundaries.

And I do not poke 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. -What if her beads scattered?

What if her beads scattered? Is something wrong with her hands?

Is the beads heavy can't she pick them herself?

Please, my dear, I hope nothing is wrong with you?

[queen2] I am not the cause of her childlessness.

Please. Hypocrite. Hmm.

[mournful music playing]

[exhales]

[gentle rhythmic drum music playing]

-[man] 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.

[necklace thuds]

-Arolake is feverish? -Yes, Your Highness.

-What kind of fever is that? -I do not understand too.

Ah-ah.

[king] Arolake.

[suspenseful music plays]

Why don't you let me… What's wrong with you?

Arolake, my wife. What is it…?

[king gasps] [amused] Arolake…

You're deceitful.

[mournful music playing]

[Awarun] Yes.

Come on, let's go. [laughs]

[drum beating majestically]

[laughing] Alright.

You haven't seen anything.

Thank you, ma.

[joyful flute playing]

-[drums continue beating] -[Saro] Hmm.

[Saro] This is where I'll set up aso-ofi store.

Yes, of course.

-I could weave my aso-ofi here. -[woman] Oh, yes.

♪ I'll wake up and bathe and give praise… ♪

♪ I'll wake up and bathe and be fashionable ♪

♪ I'll wake up and bathe and be fashionable ♪

♪ I'll wake up and bathe and be fashionable ♪

♪ Me Saro ♪

♪ Me Saro, I will also bathe every mother and the women ♪

♪ I'll wake up and bathe and be fashionable ♪

[Saro] I taught you to do it this way. Right?

-[woman] Good day. -[Saro] Welcome.

-[woman1] Good day. -[Saro] 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.

[mother] Yes.

-[Saro] Here they are. -[mother] You see? Look.

-[Saro grunts] -[mother chuckles]

Here they are.

[chuckling] Look.

Isn't this good?

-Are you out of your mind? -It's very beautiful, mother.

It's beautiful. It's beautiful… [laughs]

[young woman] Queen Arolake, I've come to give you your herb.

Who is that?

Come in and show yourself.

Who are you? You must be new here.

I am new in this palace.

The herb was delivered to the kitchen and I was sent to give it 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.

[suspenseful drumroll]

Come take the calabash back to the kitchen.

[rhythmic drums playing]

-[indistinct market chatter] -[gentle rhythmic drum music plays]

[goat bleats]

[horse snorting]

[indistinct conversations]

[crickets chirping]

[exhales]

[suspenseful music plays]

[indistinct conversation]

[woman chuckles] Ah-ah. Akano Erin.

-[Akano Erin] Yeeess. Yes, this is me. -[woman] So this is really you?

-Ah. Look at you. You've really changed. -Ahh.

-So I'm getting bald? -Ah, look at your bald head.

Don't you know it means wealth…

-Really? -…when the head is getting bald?

Money is coming.

-[rustling outside] -Yes, wealth is ours.

-[Awarun] What? -Huh! Who goes there?

-[Awarun] Where? -Eh! Somebody is there.

[Akano Erin] I say, who is it?

[Awarun] Be very careful, please.

Where did you see him?

[Akano Erin] Who is there?

-[Akano Erin] Can you hear? -Please be careful.

[Awarun] Be careful please .

-[Awarun] Would you take the torch? -Yes.

[Awarun] Take it easy.

-[Awarun] Do you see anything? -No, I can't see anything.

[Awarun] Then it's the breeze.

Drop the torch and come in.

-Come in. Come in, time is running out. -[Akano Erin] That's good then.

[Akano Erin chuckles]

Awarun!

-[Awarun] Yes that's me. I said, come in! -Alright.

[Awarun] Let's go inside.

[Akano Erin] Okay, go in.

[sand rustling]

[suspenseful drumbeats]

Our boss.

-Won't you sing for us today? -Entertain us with your music.

Are you both alright?

You both just keep running your mouths.

Have you finished your tasks?

[Saro mimics them] "Sing a song to entertain us." Nonsense.

[splutters in annoyance] Finish the work I gave you and stop running your mouths!

[Saro mimics boys sarcastically] "Sing a song to entertain us."

[Awarun] Good afternoon.

Wow. A lot of work is going on here.

-[boy1] Welcome, mother. -[boy2] Mother.

-[Awarun] Hmm? You both will succeed. -Amen, ma.

-[Awarun] I hope you all are well. -[boy1] Yes, Mother.

Babarinsa, hope your mother is well.

She is well, thank you.

-She's healthy? -[Babarinsa] Yes, she is.

Very good.

Eh, Adigun? I see you too.

Well done. Take care. Saro?

No greetings?

I greet you, welcome.

Hm. [laughing]

Babarinsa…

Come. Come.

-Adigun? -Ma?

Come over too.

Come. Come this way.

Go to the kolanut seller and get me some.

Hurry back. Don't stay long.

[Awarun chuckles]

What's wrong?

[rooster crowing]

I'm talking to you.

Who were you with last night?

Who was that man?

Ah, so you…

[chuckles wildly]

Saro.

So it was you.

So, that was you creeping… around my window last night?

Ah. [clicking tongue]

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. [chuckles]

It wasn't a mistake. I mean it.

Just look at me.

Not only that…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.

[ominous music plays]

I can also do whatever I like with anyone.

And no one, not even you, dares question me.

Wait a minute… [sneers] 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.

[Awarun chuckles, hisses]

[ominous music continues]

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.

[King] I greet you all, my chiefs.

Your Highness.

[talking drum beating] Your Highness.

-This empire won't be destroyed. -[woman] Amen.

[chiefs] Amen.

Akiniku just said something important

about the white slave traders.

Wait,

where are we headed?

[chief1] Your Highness.

-King with the beautiful beads. -Thank you.

Your reign will endure.

-[king] Amen. -[chiefs] Amen.

I greet all chiefs.

Our mothers, you shall live long.

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 them everywhere.

Where there were two men, there are now ten.

[chief2] 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, Achievers.

Your Highness.

Your reign shall last.

-You shall live long. -[chiefs] men.

We've been trading in this village for long time.

-Yes. -Anyone can work hard and gain profit.

Build house and get married.

And the wife gives birth, and keeps training 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 to a far away land.

Have you ever seen such a child come back to his or her root again?

Yes, that's true.

[chief] 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. Okay oh.

Please, let us not complicate simple things.

-[chief] Is that a proverb? -Ah-ah. Why is it that…

…we are always ahead of ourselves? Why?

Those that are coming, the white people that said they want to partner with us.

Why don't you listen to them and hear

the business they want to partner with us for?

Isn't it the white people that are coming?

[chiefs protesting] Don't say that.

[chief3] Don't go there. Don't even think about it.

Why would you even say something of sort?

You mean children that will be useful for us in future…

should be sold off for slave trade? Ah-ah!

-[chiefs] We are not slaves. -Look, I'm getting scared already.

[chief5] I'm scared already.

Let's be sensitive. Ah-ah.

So no one would expose us to our enemies.

[chief4] That's how it will be 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.

[Awarun] Mm-hmm.

Do you think anyone sold into slavery

-Right. -ever comes back home?

Let me tell you. Such person is forever gone. Forever and ever.

Your Highness.

-We live amongst the villagers. -[Awarun] 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.

-[chiefs] Amen. -Amen.

-[chief] Amen. -[soft music playing]

Oyo chiefs.

[chiefs] Your Royal Highness.

[crickets chirping]

[Awarun] 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. [chuckling]

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 will also give you my all.

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? [chuckles]

Saro…

Hm, I have good news for you.

I have good news for you. Yes, I do.

The king's wives…

and other royal women are in need of new clothes.

Yes. So I recommended you for the job.

[laughs] Yes.

-Really? -Ah-ah! Yes, of course.

That…

I, Saro,

would make new clothes for the King's wives.

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.

-[cheerful] Ah, Awarun. Ah, Awarun. Ah. -Come on. Yes?

-[rhythmic drums playing] -[horse neighing]

[Saro] Welcome, Queen.

Trust all is well.

Welcome. Welcome.

Did you come with the best ones?

-[Saro] Yes. -[princess] Good day.

-[queen1] It shall be well with you. -[Wojuola] Amen.

[grunts] Young man. They said you have the best clothes.

-[Saro] Of course. -[queen1] Let's check them.

[queen1] Ah. They're good indeed.

-This is not colorful at all. -[queen2] Oh yes.

-[queen1] It's really not bad. -Do you have another one?

We don't want. Give our mother that one.

[Saro] There are many of them.

-[women express approval] -[Wojuola] This one is good.

-What do you think? -Looks beautiful.

-Do you still have this design? -[Saro] Yes, it's available.

[queen1] Uh-huh.

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.

[queen1] Alright. Keep this for me, okay?

[Wojuola] What about the other royal children?

[queen1] They will be dressed accordingly.

Meanwhile, keep this for me. Okay?

-[queen1] Keep these for me. -[Wojuola] We too will pick these ones.

[queen2] We would pick these ones.

-[chuckles] -The princess will take this one.

Yes. It's for the princess. That's good.

-[women] Thank you very much. -[Saro] Thank you.

Please don't mix them up.

[queen2] That's our mother's choice,

-we picked different designs. -[Saro] Yes.

-[queen1] May God help you. -[Saro] Thank you.

[queen1] Royal children, good day. Hope you are good.

Young man, there is one more Queen left.

-You wait here I'll go call her. -[Saro] Alright.

[enchanting music playing]

[crickets chirping]

[leaves rustling]

[bird crowing]

[Saro] Whoever is following me, man or beast. Show yourself!

[screeching horror music rings out]

-[ominous music plays] -[Saro pants in fear] Who is that?

[Saro] Queen!

[Saro] Ah.

[crickets chirping]

[both moaning]

-[ominous music swells] -[moaning continues]

-[princess] Mother. -Yes, I'm listening.

I'm so glad about the new clothes we're about to buy.

[Wojuola] Mm-hmm?

Don't you see how good looking the man is?

-Just like his fabrics. -[Wojuola] Hmm?

All the fabrics look so beautiful.

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.

Have you forgotten…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 wasn't 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 him in that manner.

Eeh? When you are done deceiving yourself, let me know.

Truth be told, he is so handsome.

[Wojuola] Hmm.

I wonder if he's married or not.

So who will confirm that for us now?

-My mother. -Hmm?

Can I replace it? I think I want 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.

[amused] Okay, if that is what you want.

-Is that all? -Thank you, my mother.

[Wojuola] Hmm.

[crickets chirping]

-[woman coughs loudly] -[Saro yelps in fright]

[Awarun] Where have you been?

[Saro] Ah.

You really scared me. Ah.

Saro.

Where are you coming from?

Why are you questioning me?

Do I ask you where you go?

Well… I stopped by to see some friends.

Really? Saro.

[ominous music plays]

You are lying.

-You don't have friends. -Really?

Since when did you have friends?

I have many friends.

-[Awarun] Really? -Yes.

Let me tell you, my friends are many.

-Hmm. -[Saro] Yes.

Very good then.

[girl] Queen Arolake.

-Who is it? -It's Omowunmi.

Come in.

Princess Omowunmi. Are you here to steal my beads?

[giggles] 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 in my life!

Hm. No one is going to choose a husband for me.

It is me…

that will choose for myself.

[Arolake] 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 eyes for him.

The fabric or the fabric-maker?

[chuckles] You're funny.

[both chuckling]

[lively Yoruba ballad playing]

[female voice] Saro!

[queen1] Be gentle with my legs! Ah!

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.

[lively ballad continues]

[crickets chirping]

[suspenseful music plays]

Queen!

Queen!

Queen.

Ah-ah. Where did she go anyway?

Hm.

[Omowunmi gasps] 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.

-[Arolake] Goodnight. -Goodnight, friend.

-[Omowunmi] Take care. -[Arolake] See you tomorrow.

[exhales in relief]

[lively ballad continues]

-[Saro] Well done. -[workers] Well done.

[workers] Welcome.

[smirking] Saro. [chuckles]

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?

[Saro] Even if we quarrel, should we stay apart for so long?

Oh.

I mean it, I'm not mad at you.

[chuckles] I'm only scared for you.

Because, you're taking on more than you can handle.

[smirks] 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.

[lively ballad continues]

Please. Kindly take your leave.

[crickets chirping]

[coaxingly] Calm down.

Don't say anything, I'm begging you.

Huh. At least I'm here already.

Let's enjoy the moment.

Ah. [hisses]

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 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!

[Arolake] Hmm.

This is the closest to happiness I have ever been.

[man] 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?

[father] She's the one. The exact one.

-[King] She's all grown now. -She's the one. Your Highness.

I could take her as wife, right?

[father] Ah, Your Royal Highness…

Ah, I'll do what the king wants. Ah, I'll do as you say.

I tried to kill myself.

[mournful music plays]

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.

-[mournful music continues] -[silent screaming, clamoring]

[Arolake] Hmm.

[Arolake] Recently,

-someone tried to poison me. -[Saro] What?

Poison?

-[woman wails] Arolake, you must not die! -[Arolake] Yes. For a whole month…

-[Arolake] I was between life and death. -[woman wailing]

[woman] Please drink. [sobs]

[man] Well done. Well done.

[Arolake] The other queens did it of course.

-[coughs] -[woman shouts indistinctly]

You mean, you went through all that?

[chuckles]

[mournful music swells]

[Arolake] Hmm.

I've also been through a lot in my life.

[man] Saro!

[Saro] I was only six

when I was taken away to work off my parent's debt.

[man] Move faster.

Coming to Oyo was the turning point for me.

I've been able to make profit from my hard work here in Oyo.

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.

But…

[sighs] 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.

[chuckles]

-Saro… -Yes?

[whispers] 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.

Ah. 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…

[dramatic music plays]

Anything that will land you in trouble,

I don't want it.

Saro, I warn you.

Arolake. Arolake, let's elope.

[drum beats begin]

-Run? -Yes.

But it has to be tonight.

I will hurry to the palace to get my things.

-Arolake! Arolake! -What is it?

[Saro whispers] Don't give them suspicion.

-[ominous music plays] -[drums beating ominously]

I'll pack my things too, in that case.

-[Omowunmi sobbing] -Er…

Ah. Princess Omowunmi.

What's the matter?

Hope there's no problem? What is it?

[sobs]

Where are you coming from?

I… I went outside for some air.

Your lover…

[sobbing]

What did you say?

Your lover…

hmm, the moon?

"The moon is a gentle lover", just like you said.

Oh, I didn't even know that's what you are 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.

Ahh. I already told you.

-I said I went to get some air. -[sobbing]

Liar!

My mother was right.

You're a whore! [voice breaks] Husband-snatcher!

Ah, Omowunmi.

'Mowunmi!

[dramatic music playing]

[Omowunmi] Mother!

Mother!

-[cries] -Omowunmi!

-What happened? -[crying] Mother!

-What happened? -[sobbing]

-Speak up, I'm listening. -My mother!

-[sobbing] -What happened?

[dramatic music continues]

[bird crowing]

-What did I do? -[guard] You're wanted at the palace.

[crowd chanting] Saro betrayer!

Saro betrayer!

Saro.

What a pity.

People of Oyo…

[all] Your Royal Highness.

Oyo chiefs…

-[chiefs] Your Royal Highness. -[chief1] Your Highness.

[King] This is a betrayer.

[suspenseful drums play]

Oyo receives everyone from far and wide.

[chief1] 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.

[king] Who sired you?!

-The king does not suggest. -Yes.

-Yes. -The king decrees.

-You guards… -Your Highness.

Take this criminal, and treat him exactly the way he deserves.

[crowd] Long live the king.

-[dramatic music playing] -[crowd chants] Saro the betrayer!

-[dramatic music continues] -[thuds]

-[guard] Move! -[crowd chants] Saro betrayer!

[Saro whimpering]

-[crowd chants] Saro the betrayer! -[blows thud loudly]

[guard1] You're such a betrayer!

Betrayer! You're such a betrayer! Betrayer!

[guard1] You're a betrayer.

[guard2] Anyone who betrays must be killed.

-[guard1] Betrayer. -[Saro pants]

[guard1] You're such a betrayer.

-[guard1] Betrayer. Useless betrayer. -[Saro grunts, pants]

[Saro panting]

-[guard1] Useless betrayer. [spits] -[Saro panting]

-[Saro pants] -[guard2] You can see he's a betrayer.

[haunting flute music plays]

[Arolake whispering]

[whimpering] Saro.

[sobbing] Sorry.

I'm sorry. Please let's leave.

-[mournful music playing] -[crying] They're gone. Let's leave.

[sobbing] Saro. Look at me.

[crying] Saro.

Please stand. [sobbing stops] Saro?

Saro.

Saro.

[Arolake wails] Saro!

[Arolake screams] Saro!

[mournful music continues]

Hmm.

[wistfully] Saro…

[birds chirping]

[haunting screeching sound]

[dramatic music playing]

[screeching draws closer]

[screeching continues]

[haunting music playing]

[in mystical language] Arise, mortal.

You don't deserve to be alive.

Go back to your death.

[Arolake screams]

[bird screams]

-[Saro gasping for air] -[bird screeches]

-[Saro coughs, gasps] -Sorry. Stand up.

[Saro wheezing]

[Arolake grunts, yelps]

-[lively sentimental music playing] -[Saro wheezing]

-[wheezing continues] -Sorry.

[Arolake grunts]

-[sentimental Yoruba ballad playing] -[Arolake] Let's go.

[Arolake grunts]

[Arolake grunting in exertion]

-[Arolake grunting] -[Saro breathing heavily]

[Arolake] Yeah.

[Saro groaning]

[Saro grunting, breathing heavily]

[sentimental Yoruba ballad continues]

-[Saro pleading] Arolake… -Yes?

-Arolake. -Take it easy.

-[thunderclap] -[Saro] I'm tired.

Please, let's sit over there.

-Let's sit there. I'm feeling so drowsy. -[sentimental ballad fades]

I feel pain all over my body.

-Here, please. I can't go any further. -Sorry

-Ah. -[Saro] Take it easy.

[Saro] Sorry.

Sit. Sit here.

[Arolake groans]

-[Saro groans] -I am tired.

[Saro sighs]

[sobs] I can't go any further.

Ah! I just hope we don't die here in this forest.

[whiningly] Saro.

My entire body hurts.

[crying] I am so hungry.

We should have just stayed and been killed.

Arolake, don't think in such a manner.

[Arolake sighs]

Don't think that way.

Sit here and wait for me.

Let me go check for anything edible nearby.

Where? Where are you going to check for edibles?

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.

-[birds chirping] -[suspenseful music playing]

[Saro grunting]

Ah. Food.

[Arolake] Sorry.

[Saro panting]

Where did you find pawpaw?

-Close by. -Thank you.

[Arolake eating noisily]

Bring yours. Mine looks softer than yours.

[Arolake] Let me help you. You can't peel it.

Ah. This is hard.

What did you hide when I was coming?

Nothing. I didn't hide anything.

[light music plays]

[mumbling] You're eating slowly.

Hmm?

-[Saro] What did you say? -[mumbling] Do not eat… the thing…

inside. The seed.

Hey! River!

Take it easy. Take it easy. Don't fall.

[Arolake groans]

[clears throat]

[grunting] Let me help you out.

-Thank you. -Alright. Here.

Here.

-Don't make me fall. -[Arolake laughs]

[Saro grunts]

Arolake, let's keep moving. Let's forge ahead.

I'm sure we'll get to a town soon.

Isn't this a cassava farm?

[Arolake] It's just--

[man] Good day, travelers.

-Good day. -[Saro] Old one.

Where are you going and coming from?

Ah. We are glad to see you. Please is there a village nearby?

Er… Ojumo village 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.

[hunter] Okay.

You travelers, hear this before you take your leave.

"Obedience is better than sacrifice."

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. Old one, 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.

Er-er. Hold on. Who are you both?

What are your names and where are you from?

-[suspenseful music plays] -[hunter] What kind of people are you?

-Old one, 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 village.

Please, old one.

-Okay. -[Saro] Please.

If you like, follow me to my hut in the forest.

[man] If you like, leave.

You'll be turned to slaves.

[hunter] Greetings to Ogun…

patron god of hunters.

If given a sacrifice, it won't be accepted

because of the frog's uncontrollable bladder.

Greetings, travelers.

Tell me, what is your name?

[clears throat] 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.

Erm… 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.

-[hunter] You can roast some yam to eat. -[Saro and Arolake] Thank you.

-And don't be scared. -Thank you.

[soothing music playing]

[birds chirping]

[hunter] Good day.

OJUMO TOWN

-[woman] Welcome hunter. -[man] Welcome from your trip.

-[hunter] Thank you. -[woman] Welcome.

[hunter] Thank you very much.

-[hunter] Ogun reigns. -[woman] Welcome.

[hunter] Thank you.

-[man] Bless you. -Amen.

[hunter] 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. -[voices wailing in distance]

-[woman1] Akin! Have mercy. -[woman2 shouts] Akin!

[woman2 wails]

-[woman2] My child. [wails] -[voices wailing]

[crowd crying]

-[people wailing] -[hunter's bag thuds loudly on ground]

[hunter] What's wrong?

[people continue wailing]

[hunter in panic] Why the wailing in my house?

Excuse. Move away. Excuse me.

[voices clamoring]

[woman wails] Akin!

[hunter] Mopelola.

[voices wailing, crying]

[hunter] This can't be!

Akin!

-[ominous music plays] -Akin, my child.

-This can't be! Akin! Akin! -[Mopelola sobs]

[hunter] Get up and look at me.

Akin, I say rise and stand!

Akin Oh!

-Akin! -[woman in crowd] Akin.

Akin is gone?

Do I really deserve this?

[hunter cries out] Oh!

♪ Akin has died. Akin has died. ♪

♪ Oh. Why did he suffer? ♪

♪ He's gone forever… ♪

-[Arolake whispers] Saro. -Yes? What is it? Look.

Our lives are about to change.

[woman continues singing dirge]

[Saro] How do you mean?

Remember, I told you I saw how the mystical bird brought you to life?

Yes.

[woman continues dirge in background]

-[Arolake] Take this. Ah! -What is this?!

-What is this? -Don't shout.

Akala's power.

Akala's power?

This is what it used to bring you back from the dead.

When I chased it from you, this dropped.

And I picked it. Here, take it.

-Ah. No. Why should I collect it from you? -Uh-huh.

-[Arolake] Saro. -[Saro] Huh?

[Arolake] 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 and be a man. -Ah. I can't touch it.

Uh-huh! Don't you understand yet?

It's a very potent.

Ah. And a great one has died.

This power will change our lives.

And I believe God will bless us with it.

Just take a look.

What do you think will happen if you become the man who can raise the dead?

[wailing]

[hunter] Who will console me?

-[hunter] Who will console me? -[Mopelola] Akin!

[hunter] Who will console me?

-[crowd wailing] -[Mopelola crying] Stand up!

[woman] Akin stand up!

[wailing continues]

[woman] Akin, stand up!

[voices] Stand up! Akin, stand up!

[ominous music plays]

Arise!

[voices screaming]

[dramatic music playing]

-[Mopelola] Help me! He's awake! -[hunter] What is this?

[Mopelola] He is awake. Help me! Hah!

[Mopelola] Akin!

Akin. Akin.

[woman] My son is alive.

-[rhythmic drums beating] -Akin. Akin.

[hunter] Visitor…

I don't know how you did it.

I never knew

any man existed on earth created by God with power to resurrect.

-[Mopelola] Yes. Welcome. -Eeh?

-[hunter] Let's just be thankful. -[Mopelola] We thank God.

-[hunter] I thank you two. -[Mopelola] We thank God.

[hunter] I thank you.

-You both won't weep over your children. -[Saro] Amen.

-[hunter] Alright. -[Mopelola] Thank you.

[hunter] Look, visitors…

[hunter] This is palm wine.

When you're done eating, top it with this.

This is original palm wine.

Wine from the oil palm.

We cherish the Lord. [chuckles]

Good day, hunter.

King's Mouthpiece.

We hear you host a resurrector.

Yes, King's Mouthpiece.

[King's Mouthpiece] He's summoned by the palace.

Er…Hope there's no problem?

[Mouthpiece] No problem.

Okay. Once he's done eating. We will both follow you.

No. Just him. Or do you now raise the dead?

Ooh No.

-[Mouthpiece] Get up. -[Saro clears throat]

I am the King's mouthpiece.

Anything I say is from the king.

[sternly] When we get to the palace, just bow down,

and answer all questions very clearly. Understood?

[Mouthpiece] Stand up. Hurry. You just sit here.

[hunter] Be calm, continue eating.

[women singing] ♪ Anikulapo is with us We have no fear of death ♪

[women singing] ♪ Anikulapo is here oh We are not afraid oh ♪

-Your Royal Highness. -[King's Mouthpiece] Welcome.

-[chief] The king greets you. -Thank you.

Are you the man called Anikulapo?

[chief2] Look, our friend,

speak up, so the king can hear you well.

[clears throat]

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.

[Saro] I am only passing through your land, King.

So you really did raise that boy to life?

-Yes. -[chiefs gasp]

In the presence of many witnesses.

And you can do it again?

May death be far from us, Great King.

-[chiefs] Amen. -[woman] Amen.

But there's nothing God cannot do.

Please, our friend.

Tell me, where did you come across this 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?

[chiefs] That's the truth. Yes.

We love and welcome people.

Look, there's nothing you bring into our village that we don't accept.

[woman] And you shall not be put to shame.

-[chief3] Amen. -Your Royal Highness.

Please I will like to suggest…

that we inform the chief priest Fakunle

of this latest happening immediately.

[Saro] Thank you, Your Highness. Thank you.

[gentle music plays]

[Saro] Thank you.

-[gentle music continues] -[birds chirping]

[Arolake] Listen, what does the king look like?

They say he is dumb.

Come on. [chuckles] 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.

And he speaks to his queen and his children.

He also speaks to the chief priest during rites and propitiation.

Ah! Then why doesn't he speak publicly?

Or was it unheavenly judgement?

Hmm.

Let's not be deceived. I don't 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.

[Arolake] Hmm.

Some people also say,

the last time he spoke was when he saw his father being slaughtered like an animal

-during a war. -[Arolake] Aww.

-What a pity. -Ah.

That's so bad. Ah.

But only God knows that which is true or false.

-Who knows? -Ah.

Hmm.

My guardian.

-[soft flute music plays] -Hm.

-We are now successful. -[chuckling]

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. Yes.

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 the rest of my life raising the dead?

[Arolake chuckles]

Or will I feed in exchange for raising the dead?

-I'm only asking. -Saro, the aso-ofi weaver.

-[Saro] 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.

[laughing]

[rooster crowing]

[man] Anikulapo! Anikulapo! Please, save us.

[man] Come and save us.

-[man] Help me. Help me. -[women] Anikulapo!

-[man] Help us, please. -[women] Anikulapo!

[man] Anikulapo!

-Saro! -Yes?

[Arolake] Wake up. You are being called outside.

-[voices] Anikulapo! Anikulapo, save us! -[Saro] Who…

Who is that?

[people crying] Anikulapo, come and save us!

[man] Save us! Come out oh!

-Come and save us! -Please oh!

-Save us now! -[man] Please stop crying.

-God will make him succeed. -[all] Amen.

-[suspenseful music playing] -[people] Amen.

Arise!

[haunting music playing]

[people shouting] We're very grateful. Thank you!

-We're grateful. Thank you. -[man] Thank you.

-[man] Thank you. -[woman] How can we thank you enough?

[people] Thank you.

[women] Okay, stand up.

-[man] Leave her. -Rise.

[crowd singing] ♪ Anikulapo has Performed wonders in this town ♪

♪ We bring many things To show our appreciation ♪

[rhythmic music plays]

Ah. Lord help me.

Arise!

Ah?! Anikulapo, I'm grateful!

My brother.

Akanmu. Oh, thank you Saro.

-[old woman sneezes] -[man] Please!

-[woman] My mother. -[man] Don't go.

[woman] God, I thank you.

-[old woman] What is it? -[man] Lord, thank you.

Let me rest in peace.

Ah-ah.

What is it?

Who asked for help?

[people gasp] Ah.

[goat bleating]

[Arolake] How many are left?

About six more.

Yes, it's exactly six.

[suspenseful music plays]

[maid] Or should I make it four?

-[Arolake] Please make it fast. -I'm sorry.

[suspenseful music continues]

Good day.

Welcome.

[man] 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,

calls himself a resurrector,

Anikulapo… 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 for swimming,

it took him four years for a style,

six months for another,

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!

-[chief] Yes. -Does he have death in his porch?

Or does he control death?

Someone who will die soon.

[chief1] Ah-ah.

-Otun… -Hmm?

Don't you understand? Are you a child?

-Oh, please. -He is just jealous, that's all.

-It's jealousy. -[chief priest] Me?

-It's jealousy. -You're jealous of him.

-My goodness. -[chief3] With all your power?

At this your age, Chief Priest,

you then recited such long divination. Ah!

[chief3] You're just being a hypocrite.

What is the wrong thing he has done?

[chief4] 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 what he has been saying might actually be the truth.

[chief priest] They say I'm jealous.

Jealous of who?

When did I become so useless to you all?

Er… Everyone,

Chief Priest Fakunle,

the chiefs don't mean to humiliate you.

They're trying their best to understand you properly.

And 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.

[chief priest] 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.

[Saro groans]

[bird chirping]

Omowon!

-Omowon! -[Omowon] I'm coming!

-[Saro] 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.

-[Omowon blows] -My eyes.

-I can't see. Can't you blow it properly? -I've blown it.

-[blowing harder] -[Saro groans]

Ah, yeh.

[Omowon] Don't rub it. Don't…

-[suspenseful music plays] -[Omowon whimpering]

[Omowon protests] Oh no!

[Omowon protesting]

[chief2] Eh… Welcome.

[Saro] Your Royal Highness.

[chiefs] The king greets you.

[Saro] Thank you.

[Mouthpiece] 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.

[Saro] Yes.

Thank you.

-[chief] The king blesses you. -Amen.

[chiefs] Amen.

[Mouthpiece] 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.

[chief priest] 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. Any problem?

Ah. You didn't offend anybody.

With all of your good deeds.

I feel attacked by you all.

-[chiefs] No. -[woman] Attacked?

Don't think such 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.

You've offended no one.

-I thought as much. -Let's not beat around the bush.

[chief] 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… this gourd to us.

Will it work if anyone else tries to use it?

Ah-ah.

Wait a minute… Not at all. Really?

Why should I do that? No I can't.

[woman] Possessed?

Chief Priest, can you dream as you are?

[chief] 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 harmless to the people

and the village at large.

[woman] That's it.

[Saro sighs]

At this point, if you want me to leave your village,

I will leave.

-[woman] It's not so. -Ah.

But for me to surrender the gourd to you,

it's not possible.

If anyone asides me,

Saro Tewogbola, touches the gourd,

such a person is ready to die untimely.

[chiefs gasp in fear]

-God forbid. -May death be far from us.

-[chief] He will just leave. -[chief] Help us, help us! God forbid.

[Saro] Your Highness.

[suspenseful music plays]

[chief2] He speaks the truth.

[woman] Did you hear that?

Call him back, he is leaving.

[woman] Will we witness such?

-Has he made any sense? -You are too mean.

[tense music playing]

[moaning]

[Omowon moans]

[Arolake] Hey.

Hey. Omowon, hey! Stand up.

What's the matter with you? What's wrong?

[crying]

You are pregnant.

[whimpering]

What? Don't you know you're pregnant?

[whimpering]

Okay. It's not a problem.

Whoever is responsible needs to know, and take responsibility.

-Right? -[sobbing]

Can't you speak up?

[mumbles indistinctly]

-[Saro] Good day. -[Arolake] Ah.

[Arolake] Welcome. You've been long gone.

Thank you. What's going on here?

Nothing really.

Ah? This doesn't look like nothing.

What's wrong with her? What did you do?

[mumbles indistinctly]

Speak up!

-She's pregnant. -What?

-Omowon. -Yes?

[Omowon whimpers]

You're pregnant?

[mumbles indistinctly]

[melancholic music plays]

Really?

[Omowon whimpers]

[mumbles, cries]

-Saro… -Yes?

[Arolake] What have you done now?

[Omowon sobbing]

Forgive me please. I'm sorry.

I'm sorry. Please ma, please forgive me.

Omowon, you can take your leave.

[Omowon sobbing]

[Arolake] Ah.

Arolake. Arolake.

Please don't take this to heart.

It's not a big deal.

It's not a big deal?

[weeping] 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.

-[sniffs] -Arolake. Arolake, please.

[sobs]

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.

[Wojuola] You're just nothing but for the king's pleasure.

[Arolake sighs]

-[indistinct market chatter] -[goats bleating]

-[Saro] Bimpe, let's go. -I'm almost done.

[Saro] Ah. [hisses]

You look beaut… [sighs] 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.

-[Arolake] Come here. Don't go. -[baby crying]

-[baby crying] -[Omowon shouts] What is it? What?

Hold on.

[Omowon] Why do you find joy in maltreating my children always?

You must find a reason to make them cry.

Give her to me. Let me have her!

[Omowon] What exactly is it?

What is going on here?

I didn't stop you from giving birth to your children.

-[baby sobbing] -Sorry, it's okay. It's okay.

[Omowon] You keep making the children cry always.

[Saro] Eh… Omowon, that is enough!

It's okay.

Why does she beat my child?

Is it because of her useless beads that

-she has to beat my child? -I say it's enough, Omowon!

Nonsense! [hisses]

Sorry, dear. Sorry. It's okay.

And you Arolake,

you should keep your things out of the reach of her children.

-[suspenseful music plays] -Sorry Banke. Sorry my dear Banke.

-[suspenseful music plays] -[Omowon] Sorry.

Now the child is crying again.

She should keep her things properly, away from the children's reach.

It's enough. It's enough.

If you lay a hand 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! My Master!

[Saro] Come and help madam pick up her beads.

[Arolake] It's okay. I don't need help.

What did the poor man do to you, you this pretentious Queen?

[tense music building up]

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.

[crickets chirping]

[Saro clearing throat]

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.

Hmm. 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, -[Saro sighs]

living as someone else's wife in Ojumo?

[clears throat] Arolake,

you have nothing to worry about.

[Arolake] 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.

-[Saro sighs] -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?! -[slap sound]

How dare you say that?!

[tense music plays]

You dare talk to me like that?

-[suspenseful music continues] -[Arolake muffled chuckle]

Arolake.

[rooster crowing]

My husband, you're awake.

They have a message from the palace.

[horse neighing]

[sobbing]

[Saro] Your Royal Highness. I've seen your messenger.

[chief1] The King greets you.

[Mouthpiece] Truly the king sent for you.

You can see what's happened. The prince is dead.

-[suspenseful music plays] -Ah! This can't be.

-[chief priest] He's dead. -[Saro] Huh?

-[Saro expresses disbelief] -[chief priest] I said he's dead.

[queen sobbing] Anikulapo. Please bring my son back.

[Saro] What a pity.

-The prince is dead. -[Saro] Uh.

[indistinct whispering]

[tense music building]

[drumming, chanting]

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.

[chief priest] This is too much, Your Highness. It is too much.

[Saro] This is an easy task.

I'll resurrect your son, Your Highness.

And it won't cost you much.

But first,

allow me have a private meeting with you.

[queen and princess sob]

[whispering]

[whispering]

-[chief priest] Easy. -Take it easy, Your Highness.

Easy.

Your Royal Highness.

-[chief1] My Lord, easy. -[chief priest] Take it easy, My Lord.

Take it easy.

Take it easy. Please.

[queen sobbing]

[chief1] We don't know what he requested.

[queen whimpering]

Anikulapo.

So you had the guts… my daughter?

That's what I want. It's not much.

[Saro] I only want the princess as my wife.

Mmh. I have been paid way more than that

by people who appreciate my power.

[Saro] How much more from the King.

[Mouthpiece cackles]

Anikulapo. You're very bold.

Come on! You useless ungrateful man.

Err… After all I've done for you

with all we have done for you,

and this is how you repay my kindness?

Ungrateful in what way?

[Saro] 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.

-[Saro] Ungrateful fellow. -[chief priest] Abomination.

[chief priest] 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.

[Saro] When you are ready, Your Highness,

the death capturer will be waiting at home.

[queen moans]

Anikulapo, please bring my son back.

[chief1] Let's give him the princess. She doesn't have a husband.

Please. [crying]

My condolences.

-[dramatic music plays] -[chiefs protesting]

No! You don't have to draw your dagger.

Let the prince's death be paramount to us, than marriage.

[queen sobbing]

Please.

[queen sobs]

Let him resurrect him.

Let him marry her.

[sobbing]

[mother] Wake my son, Your Highness.

-[mournful music playing] -[women crying]

Royal Highness.

[queen] Wake my son, Your Highness.

-[woman singing] -[indistinct chatter]

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 serious fever all through the night.

And then by dawn this morning,

the prince had passed on.

[exclaims] My goodness!

[shushing] 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. -[exhales] 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.

[mouthing] Keep quiet.

-Look, sir. -Keep quiet.

-I have to plead with you. Look, listen. -Okay. Let's keep working. Come on!

I beg you in the name of God, do not tell anyone.

-No one must hear this. -Yes.

Okay.

Yes.

[gentle ballad playing]

[Saro] Good day.

Welcome.

-[Saro] Where are the children? -They're sleeping inside.

Welcome, my husband.

[Saro] Bring my food.

-How was the meeting? -[gentle ballad continues]

-Very well. -Thank God.

[Omowon] I'm coming.

-[Omowon] Welcome. -Thank you.

Thank you.

-Eeh… Where is Arolake? -[gentle music fades into tense dirge]

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.

[music swells back]

King's Messenger.

The King has agreed and says you should come right away.

He has agreed!

[Saro] Your Royal Highness.

[chief] Welcome.

[King's man] The King greets you.

[King's man] Anikulapo, you received the king's message.

You have agreed.

Not only the king agreed.

Every one of us have agreed.

The King agreed. The Queen agreed.

[chief] Even the princess you wish to marry has consented to marrying you.

As long as you resurrect her brother.

No problem.

[queen praying quietly]

I'll raise your prince.

-Hmm. -Well done.

[priest] I think he's communicating with the gods.

He brings out what he is going to use.

Is he showing it to the gods? So they'll give him strength.

Let's see.

Well done.

Mhm.

[priest] The gods have arrived.

[Saro grunts]

[mumbling]

[chief] Well done.

[chief sighs]

[chief] Let's be patient.

[shouts] Arise!

-[chief] Do rise up. -[whimpering]

-[chief] Be patient. -[queen whimpers]

[chief] Please rise up.

[blows out]

Arise!

This is the second time.

-[king whispering indistinctly] -This is the second time.

Let him try the third time.

Hey. Anikulapo or whatever your name is,

why is it taking so long?

Ah. 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.

[chief] Who says he can't do it?

[Saro shouting, voice cracking] Arise!

-[wails] Prince, you're summoned to arise! -[chief] Please wake up. Prince.

-[queen wailing] Answer us! -Ah.

-[queen] After experiencing childbirth, -Right.

-[queen] I'm burning in hell fire. -Do you want to put us in solemn?

-[mournful flute music playing] -[queen wailing, sobbing]

[princess begins singing dirge]

-[mournful flute music continues] -[crowd cheering, drums beating]

[princess singing dirge]

♪ Please get up. Please get up big brother ♪

[queen sobbing]

[mournful music continues]

[princess continues dirge] ♪ Please elder brother ♪

[narrator/chief priest chanting divination] Agilinti

Olatuse's friend

Awan, Awedowu's friend

Consulted the oracle for Olapade

Ebediowu's child

He was warned not to betray

He was warned not to tell lies

Olapade, Ebediowu's child

Your excessive pride Has led to your downfall

When you choose an action

Be ready to live with the consequences

Olapade, Ebediowu's child

[mystical bird screeching]

Your excessive pride has led to your downfall

[bird screeching hauntingly]

[light rhythmic music playing]

Subtitle translation by: Ayolope Koiki