Chapter 2: Diamonds in the Rough
Episode 1: The Discovery
The sun hung low on the horizon, casting long shadows across my thriving fields. I wiped the sweat from my brow, my muscles aching from another day of hard work. As I bent to pull up the last stubborn weed, something caught my eye – a glint in the freshly turned soil.
Curious, I dug my fingers into the earth, feeling them close around something solid. I pulled it free, my breath catching in my throat as I held it up to the fading light. A rock, no larger than my thumb, but unlike any I’d ever seen. Transparent, with facets that caught and reflected the sun’s rays in a dazzling display.
“What in the world?” I muttered, turning it over in my hand.
My mind raced. Could it be valuable? I had to know, but I couldn’t risk asking anyone in the village. News traveled fast, and I didn’t trust Bidemi or Fulu not to try and stake a claim.
As if summoned by my thoughts, I heard Bidemi’s shrill voice carrying across the field. “Sade! What are you doing over there?”
I quickly pocketed the stone, my heart pounding. “Just finishing up,” I called back, trying to keep my voice steady. “Why do you care?”
Bidemi sauntered over, her eyes narrowed with suspicion. “You’ve been out here all day. What could possibly be so important?”
I forced a laugh, hoping it didn’t sound as hollow as it felt. “Some of us actually have to work for a living, Bidemi. Not all of us can afford to laze about all day.”
Her face darkened with anger. “Watch your tongue, orphan. You may have coaxed some crops from this wasteland, but don’t forget your place.”
I bit back a retort, knowing it would only escalate the situation. Instead, I shouldered past her, heading for home. The stone felt heavy in my pocket, a secret burning to be revealed.
That night, sleep eluded me. I tossed and turned, the mysterious stone clutched in my hand. As the first light of dawn crept through my window, I made a decision. I had to know what I’d found, no matter the risk.
