Ugh I hate this place, I regret the day I was born, I hate the fact that I was given this tribal marks. It makes me very embarrassed anyone who sees me at first glance will know I'm from Benin.
Is that what you think ajoke?
When you're done complaining go and get some herbs for me.
I have told you time and time again that I hate going to get herbs, it's not for me and besides,Ma you know the herbs that will cleanse this tribalark on my face and yet you refuse to concoct it for me.
(Stops what she does abruptly) That is your identity. And no matter how much English you speak you will never erase the fact that you're a proper Benin girl and that's why the gods made it easier for you to be identified.
In the past they were a thing of pride.
The Benin you speak of with such hate if only you know what it was and how powerful we were and how powerful we still are you'll see it in a new light .
Just like Israel,Benin is one of the oldest kingdoms in the world to exist till this days.
Ma haven't you heard the saying "I had it before is not an achievement"
Child don't get me angry.
When you get the herbs, you know where to find me.
Few hours later
Ma I'm back.
Keep them here.
Where are you brothers?
I don't know, lemme check.
Benin is powerful than you think.
It's just a legend to boost your pride.
I wish you knew the entire history.
The chiefs and oba swore an oath of seacrecy and it's a thing of shame to speak of your downfall.
Ma, you speak as if you are of old, as if you where there when Benin was created.
How old do you think I am?
I think you're in you late 60s but you look like your 40 maybe late 40s
(Ma laughs) Dear that's the good effect of immortality.
But it has a terrible price.
Are you going to school tomorrow?
No we're done with finals exams.
So I'll just get my things and move back.
Hmm ok I see well. Like I always say you need the certificate but you also need to learns the practicals for it.
Ma, medicine is
The medicine you studied weren't you taught that they use herbs to make the pills then they purifiy their pills before selling them.
One day you'll see what I'm talking about.
Just make sure you don't struggle then.
Abigail go and eat.
When you're done call your brothers and your sister.