Chapter 3

The contention (continuation)

One by one, the young men began complaining about their experience contesting for Nkoli's hand. One of them Eloka swore that he had been cheated during his duel with Ofumba. Ofumba denied it and claimed Eloka refused to accept defeat like he should. The others complained about everything from being deceived to being attacked on the roads.
Oke stood amongst them in silence. He was doing everything to hide his wounded leg. The pain was so intense, it prevented him from hearing what the others were arguing about. If the others wanted a rematch, then with his injury, he didn't stand a chance. He also didn't want to have to explain how he got injured. Suddenly the chief called his name. He hadn't been paying attention. All eyes were on him.
" Is this true?" The chief asked, staring at Oke's face.
" What? My Lord..."
The chief blasted Oke for being absent minded then asked the question again.
" Did Nkoli stay in your house beyond sunset?"
Oke felt uneasy but he always had a way with words.
" No. She only stopped by my house on her way back from the river" He replied firmly though his voice was weak.
" Liar!" Ofor cut in. " You deceived her. You toyed with her...you!" The chief commanded him to keep quiet.
Oke grinned. "...