Kola and the Enchanted Drum

In the vibrant village of Ilu-Odo, nestled between emerald forests and winding rivers, there lived a mischievous boy named Kola. Kola, with his curious eyes and boundless energy, was known for his adventurous spirit, but his grandmother, Adetoun, often worried about his refusal to heed her wisdom or the counsel of the village elders.

One sunny afternoon, Kola was playing near the edge of the river when he stumbled upon a hidden path. The trail, flanked by towering bamboo trees, seemed to glow with an inviting light. At its end lay an ancient talking drum, nestled among the roots of a majestic tree. Stories of this drum were legendary; it was said to lure the unwary deep into the forbidden forest, where danger awaited. Only the elders, steeped in wisdom, could safely touch and play it.

But Kola, drawn by the drum’s intricate carvings and vibrant colors, couldn’t resist. “What harm could one touch do?” he thought. As his fingers brushed against the drum, a magical melody filled the air, wrapping him in its enchanting rhythm. The music was irresistible, leading him deeper into the forest with every beat.

The forest was alive with the drum's spellbinding tune, and Kola's excitement grew as he ventured farther from his village. Suddenly, an old tortoise named Baba Tunde appeared. With a shell marked by centuries of wisdom, Baba Tunde was the guardian of the talking drum.

“Kola,” the tortoise said in a deep, measured voice, “this drum is not for children. It is a test of wisdom and obedience. You must turn back before it’s too late.”

But Kola, captivated by the adventure, dismissed Baba Tunde’s warnings. “I’m not afraid. I’ll be fine,” he said, pushing forward.

Not long after, Kola encountered Ayo, a mischievous monkey swinging from branch to branch. “Come, Kola,” Ayo beckoned. “There’s so much more to see. Adventures await beyond your wildest dreams.”

Despite Baba Tunde’s earlier warning, Kola followed Ayo, deeper and deeper into the forest. The talking drum's melody grew sweeter, urging him onward. But as night fell, the forest grew darker and more menacing. Shadows danced eerily, and unfamiliar sounds filled the air.

Realizing his mistake, Kola tried to retrace his steps, but the forest seemed to twist and turn, trapping him in its maze. Exhausted and terrified, he fell to his knees and cried, calling out for help. The once-exciting melody of the talking drum now felt like a haunting reminder of his disobedience.

“I should have listened to Grandmother,” he whispered, tears streaming down his cheeks. “Please, gods of the land, guide me home. I promise to change.”

Just as Kola lost all hope, the talking drum began to glow with a warm, golden light. Its melody softened into a guiding tune, illuminating a path through the dark forest. Kola followed the light, step by step, until the trees thinned, revealing the familiar sight of his village square.

Waiting for him were his worried grandmother, neighbors, and friends. Adetoun rushed forward, embracing Kola tightly, her tears mixing with her prayers of gratitude.

“Grandmother,” Kola said, kneeling before her. “I was wrong to ignore your wisdom. I promise to always listen and respect your guidance.”

Adetoun forgave him, her voice filled with warmth. She led him home, where she served his favorite meal, egusi soup, filling his heart and stomach with comfort.

That night, as Kola lay under his blanket, he whispered a prayer of thanks to the gods and the enchanted drum that led him home. From that day on, Kola became known not only for his adventurous spirit but also for his respect and obedience, a lesson he vowed never to forget.