Her Stepmother Locked Her in a Cage with a Leopard—But Karma Hit Back Hard!

True African Tales

"Her Stepmother Locked Her in a Cage with a Leopard—But Karma Hit Back Hard!"                  african tales,african tales by reby,african folktales,african tales stories and fables,viral african tales,african tales by chi,best african tales,ancient african stories,hot african tales,african stories,african folktales in english,african fairy tales,african folktales short stories,african folktales movie,african folklore,folktales from africa,african folktales with moral lessons,fairy tales in english story,yoruba tales,African tales by Arlo  africantales              🌟 Dive into African magic!  Follow *TheNativeAfricanTales* on Dailymotion for captivating stories & rich culture.   👉 https://www.dailymotion.com/user/TheNativeAfricanTales   👉 https://www.dailymotion.com/user/TrueAfricanTales  🌍 Love stories with deep meaning and cultural roots?   Check out *The Native African Tales* – a channel bringing timeless African stories to life!   🔗 https://www.youtube.com/@TheNativeAfricanTales  Would love your support – watch, enjoy, and subscribe! ✨  *Follow now!* 🚀

Transcript

00:00Zuena was only twelve when her mother died.

00:03The house that once echoed with laughter turned quiet, filled with the heavy weight of sorrow.

00:08Her father, Chief Kato, was devastated, but within a year, he remarried.

00:12Her new stepmother, Madaki, arrived with a bright smile and sweet words, promising to

00:18care for Zuena like her own daughter.

00:20At first, it seemed like a dream.

00:22Madaki brushed Zuena's hair, told her bedtime stories, and even cooked her favourite meals.

00:28For a while, Zuena believed she had found a second mother, but slowly, things changed.

00:33Madaki's warmth faded, replaced by cold stares and sharp words.

00:38It started with small things, ignoring Zuena when she spoke, forgetting to serve her food,

00:44making her redo chores for no reason.

00:47Then it got worse.

00:48She would grip Zuena's arm too tightly when no one was looking, whispering cruel words

00:52in her ear.

00:53You're nothing but a burden, she hissed one night.

00:56Your father only keeps you because he pities you.

00:59Zuena wanted to tell her father, but he was always away, travelling for trade.

01:04And when he did return, Madaki became the perfect wife and stepmother, serving him warm meals

01:09and speaking softly.

01:10Zuena tried to be strong, but loneliness wrapped around her like a heavy cloak.

01:15She missed her mother terribly.

01:16Late at night, she would sit by the small window in her room, staring at the moon, whispering

01:21secrets to the stars.

01:23Mama, if you can hear me, please don't forget me.

01:27But there was no answer, only the rustling of leaves and the distant howl of the wind.

01:32She didn't know it yet, but the worst was yet to come.

01:35At first, Zuena thought maybe she had done something wrong.

01:39Maybe if she tried harder, Madaki would love her.

01:42But no matter what she did, her stepmother's cruelty only grew.

01:46Madaki treated her like a servant, ordering her to scrub the floors until her hands ached,

01:51wash clothes until her fingers turned raw, and cook meals she was never allowed to eat.

01:56Every morning, before the sun even rose, Zuena was yanked out of bed and sent to fetch water

02:01from the river.

02:02The pot was so heavy, her arms trembled, but she wasn't allowed to rest.

02:07Move faster, you lazy girl, Madaki snapped, watching her struggle.

02:11If Zuena spilled even a single drop, she would have to go back and start all over again.

02:16Her days were endless work, and her nights were even worse.

02:20While Madaki and her father slept in a soft, warm bed, Zuena was forced to sleep on the

02:25cold, hard floor in the kitchen, curled up like a stray dog.

02:29The first time she complained, Madaki grabbed her by the arm and dragged her outside.

02:33If you don't like it, sleep with the goats, she sneered, pushing Zuena toward the animal

02:38shed.

02:39That night, Zuena sobbed into the straw, hugging herself for warmth.

02:43She was always hungry.

02:44Madaki gave her leftovers.

02:46Cold, dry scraps that even the dogs wouldn't eat.

02:49Sometimes, she didn't give her anything at all.

02:51You want food?

02:52Finish your work first, she would say, knowing there was never an end to Zuena's chores.

02:58Some nights, Zuena lay awake, her stomach twisting in pain, listening to the sounds of Madaki and

03:04her father eating.

03:05The rich smell of roasted meat and warm bread filled the air, but she was too afraid to ask

03:09for even a bite.

03:10Despite everything, Zuena never lost hope.

03:14She believed that one day, her father would see the truth.

03:17Every time he returned home from his trips, she tried to tell him, but before she could

03:21even open her mouth, Madaki would smile sweetly, take his hands and say, Zuena has been so lazy

03:27lately, my love.

03:28I try to teach her, but she just won't listen.

03:31Her father sighed and looked at Zuena with disappointment.

03:33You must learn to behave, my child, he said, shaking his head.

03:37Zuena's heart shattered.

03:39He believed Madaki's lies.

03:41No one in the village noticed her suffering.

03:43To them, Madaki was a loving wife, a caring stepmother.

03:47And Zuena?

03:48She was just a quiet girl with sad eyes.

03:51But behind closed doors, her life was a nightmare.

03:54Still, she refused to break.

03:56No matter how much Madaki tried to crush her, she held onto one thing.

04:00Her mother's memory.

04:01You are strong, my little star, her mother used to say, kissing her forehead.

04:05You are meant for greater things.

04:07Those words were the only warmth she had left.

04:09But even the strongest hearts have limits.

04:12And Zuena was reaching hers.

04:14Zuena had grown into a beautiful young woman.

04:17Even after years of suffering under Madaki's cruelty, her spirit remained unbroken.

04:21She was kind to everyone, always helping the villagers with a smile.

04:25No matter how tired she was, people admired her, whispering about her strength and beauty.

04:31But no one admired her more than Prince Jabari.

04:34The prince had first noticed Zuena at the village well.

04:37She had been helping an elderly woman carry a heavy waterpot, her face glowing under the

04:41morning sun.

04:43Something about her, her kindness, her quiet strength, drew him in.

04:47Every time he visited the village, his eyes searched for her.

04:51He would smile at her.

04:52And Zuena, though shy, would smile back.

04:55Word spread quickly, and soon the entire village was talking about how Prince Jabari had taken

05:00an interest in the poor orphan girl.

05:02When Madaki heard this, her blood boiled.

05:05She had spent years controlling the household, making sure Zuena remained nothing more than

05:10a helpless servant.

05:11If the prince married her, everything would change.

05:14Zuena would become a princess, powerful and respected.

05:17And worst of all, she would escape Madaki's grasp forever.

05:21Madaki could not let that happen.

05:23That night, she sat in the dimly lit kitchen, her mind racing.

05:27She had to get rid of Zuena.

05:28But how?

05:29Beating her wasn't enough.

05:31Zuena always found a way to endure.

05:33No, this time, she had to make sure Zuena never returned.

05:36Ever.

05:37The idea came to her like a dark whisper in the night.

05:40The deep forest.

05:42The old iron cage.

05:43The hungry beast inside.

05:45A wicked smile spread across Madaki's face.

05:48Tomorrow, she would tell Zuena that it was time for a sacred ritual.

05:51One that honoured her dead mother's spirit.

05:54She would take her deep into the forest.

05:56To the place no one dared to go.

05:58And there, she would leave her.

06:00Locked in a cage.

06:01With a leopard.

06:02No one would ever find her.

06:04No one would ever hear her screams.

06:06By the time she returned to the village, she would have the perfect lie ready.

06:10Zuena?

06:11Oh, she ran away, she would tell them, shaking her head with fake sadness.

06:16She was always so restless.

06:17Never happy here.

06:18And just like that, Zuena would be gone forever.

06:22As Madaki lay in bed that night, she closed her eyes, feeling victorious.

06:26Tomorrow, she would finally be free of Zuena.

06:29Forever.

06:30Early in the morning, before the sun had fully risen, Madaki shook Zuena awake.

06:35Her eyes were unusually kind, her voice softer than usual.

06:38Wake up, my child, she said, brushing Zuena's forehead in a way that almost felt motherly.

06:44Today is a special day.

06:46Zuena sat up, rubbing her tired eyes.

06:48What do you mean?

06:49Madaki sighed, placing a hand on her chest as if she were holding back tears.

06:54It is time to honour your mother's spirit.

06:57She looked deep into Zuena's eyes.

06:59There is a sacred ritual, one that will bring peace to her soul, but it must be done in

07:03the deep forest, away from the eyes of others.

07:06Zuena's heart ached at the mention of her mother.

07:09A ritual for her?

07:10Something that would make her spirit happy.

07:12She had never heard of such a thing, but Madaki spoke with such conviction that it was

07:16impossible to doubt her.

07:18She quickly got up, eager to do anything that might make her mother proud.

07:22The two walked through the village, the air cool and quiet.

07:25No one was awake yet.

07:27Zuena followed Madaki deeper and deeper into the forest, farther than she had ever gone

07:32before.

07:33The trees grew taller, their twisted branches blocking out the sky.

07:36The air smelled damp, heavy with the scent of earth and something else.

07:41Something unsettling.

07:42Zuena hesitated.

07:43Madaki.

07:44Where exactly are we going?

07:46Madaki didn't look back.

07:47Just a little further, my dear.

07:49They walked until they reached a small clearing.

07:51In the middle stood an old iron cage, its bars rusted but still strong.

07:56Zuena's stomach twisted with unease.

07:59Something about the cage felt wrong.

08:01And then she saw it.

08:02A pair of glowing yellow eyes, peering at her from the darkness inside.

08:07A leopard.

08:08Its body was sleek.

08:10Its muscles tense.

08:11It was pacing.

08:13Hungry.

08:14Its sharp teeth glinting in the dim light.

08:15Zuena gasped and took a step back.

08:18Madaki.

08:19What is this?

08:20Madaki turned to her with a smile.

08:22Cold.

08:23Cruel.

08:24Heartless.

08:25This, she said, grabbing Zuena's wrist, is your fate.

08:29Before Zuena could react, Madaki shoved her forward with all her strength.

08:33She stumbled, falling hard against the dirt floor of the cage.

08:37The moment she hit the ground, Madaki slammed the door shut and locked it.

08:40Zuena's breath caught in her throat.

08:42She scrambled to her feet and rushed to the bars, her fingers gripping the cold metal.

08:47No!

08:48Let me out!

08:49She cried, her voice shaking.

08:51Madaki just laughed.

08:52A deep, satisfied laugh.

08:54You really thought I would let you take everything from me?

08:57That I would let you marry the prince and ruin everything I built?

09:00She stepped closer, her eyes gleaming with pure hatred.

09:03No, my dear.

09:04You were never meant to survive.

09:06Zuena's heart pounded.

09:08Please don't do this.

09:09My father!

09:10Your father is a fool, Madaki spat.

09:13And soon he will believe you ran away.

09:15No one will come looking for you, Zuena.

09:17No one will even ask.

09:19The leopard growled, its tail flicking.

09:21It had been watching them, its hunger growing.

09:24Zuena could feel its gaze on her, its sharp claws scratching at the dirt.

09:28Tears streamed down her face.

09:30Madaki!

09:31Please!

09:32Madaki stepped back, dusting off her hands as if she had just finished a chore.

09:37Goodbye, little orphan.

09:38Then she turned and walked away.

09:40Zuena screamed for help, her voice echoing through the empty forest.

09:44But there was no one to hear her, and behind her the leopard took a slow, careful step forward.

09:49Zuena pressed her back against the cold metal bars, her chest rising and falling in panicked breaths.

09:55The leopard moved slowly, its powerful body circling her like a shadow.

09:59Its yellow eyes glowed in the darkness, locked onto her, unblinking.

10:04The air inside the cage was thick with the scent of raw hunger.

10:07The beast hadn't eaten in days.

10:09She could tell by the way its ribs pressed against its spotted skin, by the way its tail

10:14flicked sharply, its patience running thin.

10:16Her hands trembled as she gripped the bars behind her, her mind screaming at her to run.

10:21But there was nowhere to go.

10:22The cage was small.

10:24The door locked.

10:25Outside, the forest stretched endlessly, silent except for the sound of dry leaves rustling

10:30in the night breeze.

10:32Madaki was long gone.

10:33No one knew she was here.

10:35No one was coming.

10:36The leopard let out a low growl, deep and threatening.

10:39It crouched slightly, muscles coiling, preparing to pounce.

10:43Zuena's breath caught in her throat.

10:46Then, somewhere in the back of her mind, a memory surfaced.

10:49Her father's voice, calm and steady.

10:52Wild animals attack when they sense fear, my little star.

10:56But if you show them you are not a threat.

10:58Sometimes, just sometimes, they will let you live.

11:01She swallowed hard, forcing her body to stay still.

11:05Her father had taught her how to calm the village dogs when they became aggressive.

11:09This was no dog.

11:10This was a leopard.

11:11But maybe, maybe it could work.

11:13Slowly, carefully, she lowered herself onto her knees, making herself smaller.

11:18The leopard stopped pacing, watching her closely.

11:21Zuena kept her eyes low, avoiding direct contact.

11:24Her father had said that staring into an animal's eyes was a challenge.

11:27A fight for dominance.

11:29She didn't want a fight.

11:31She wanted to survive.

11:32She inhaled deeply, then exhaled softly.

11:35Then, in the gentlest voice she could manage, she whispered,

11:38I am not your enemy.

11:39The leopard's ears twitched.

11:41It tilted its head slightly, as if confused.

11:44Zuena's heartbeat thundered in her chest, but she kept her voice calm.

11:48I know you are hungry, she murmured, her hands barely moving as she reached forward, palm up.

11:53I know you are scared, too.

11:55The leopard took a step closer.

11:57Zuena's fingers curled slightly, her instincts screaming at her to run.

12:01But she stayed still.

12:02The beast was close now.

12:04So close, she could see the scars on its face, the small cuts on its paws.

12:08It had been through battles.

12:10It had suffered, just like her.

12:13A sharp breath left her lips.

12:15You are not alone.

12:16The leopard's growl softened into a deep rumble, something less threatening, almost curious.

12:22It sniffed the air between them, hesitating.

12:25Zuena barely breathed.

12:27If this worked, she might have a chance.

12:29If it didn't, the leopard suddenly lifted its paw and placed it over hers.

12:34A shock went through her body, but she didn't pull away.

12:37It didn't attack.

12:38It didn't bite.

12:39It simply looked at her, its golden eyes less wild, less hungry.

12:43And for the first time since she had been thrown into this cage, Zuena felt something other than fear.

12:49She felt hope.

12:50Zuena held her breath, her heart pounding like a drum.

12:54The leopard was right in front of her, its huge body tense, its golden eyes locked onto hers.

13:00Any second now, it could strike.

13:02But then, something strange happened.

13:05The beast didn't attack.

13:07Instead, it took a slow step back.

13:09Zuena blinked in shock.

13:11It was almost as if the leopard was hesitating, unsure.

13:15It let out a low, rumbling sound.

13:17Not a growl, but something softer.

13:19A sound of pain.

13:20That's when she noticed it.

13:22The leopard wasn't just hungry, it was hurt.

13:24Her eyes fell to its front paw, where a long, sharp thorn was buried deep in the flesh.

13:30The paw trembled slightly, unable to fully press against the ground.

13:33That's why the animal had been circling so slowly.

13:36Why it hadn't immediately pounced.

13:38Zuena's fear didn't disappear, but something else rose in its place.

13:42Pity.

13:43She knew what it was like to be in pain.

13:45To be trapped.

13:46To feel helpless.

13:48Maybe this animal wasn't just a monster.

13:50Maybe it was suffering too.

13:52She swallowed hard.

13:53Could she help it?

13:54The leopard watched her closely as she slowly, very slowly, reached her hand forward.

13:59Her fingers trembled, but she forced herself to stay calm.

14:03Shhh.

14:04I won't hurt you, she whispered, her voice barely above a breath.

14:08The leopard flinched but didn't back away.

14:10Encouraged, she inched closer, her hand moving toward its injured paw.

14:14She could feel its warm breath against her skin.

14:17One wrong move, and it could tear her apart.

14:20But Zuena had no choice.

14:22She carefully wrapped her fingers around the thorn.

14:24The leopard let out a sharp growl, its muscles tensing.

14:28Zuena froze, her heart racing.

14:31I know it hurts, she whispered, trying to soothe it.

14:34Just a little more, okay?

14:35She took a deep breath.

14:37Then, in one quick motion, she pulled the thorn out.

14:40The leopard roared, jerking its paw back.

14:42Zuena gasped, scrambling away, expecting the worst.

14:46But instead of attacking, the leopard stopped.

14:49It looked down at its paw, flexing it carefully.

14:51The wound was still raw, but the pain was already fading.

14:55It lifted its gaze back to Zuena.

14:58And for the first time, there was no anger.

15:00No hunger.

15:01Just something else.

15:02Something softer.

15:04Zuena held her breath.

15:05Then, to her astonishment, the leopard lowered its head and licked her hand.

15:09Just once, quick and gentle, before stepping back.

15:12Her eyes widened.

15:13The beast that was supposed to kill her had just thanked her.

15:17A strange, unspoken bond formed between them in that moment.

15:20Two souls, both abandoned, both fighting to survive.

15:24And for the first time since she had been thrown into this cage, Zuena didn't feel alone.

15:28Zuena sat on the cold ground, staring at the leopard in disbelief.

15:32Hours ago, she had thought this beast would be the end of her.

15:35Now, it was the only thing keeping her alive.

15:38The bond between them was strange, unspoken, but real.

15:42She had helped it.

15:43And in some way, it had accepted her.

15:45But none of that mattered if she stayed locked in this cage.

15:48If she didn't escape, hunger and exhaustion would kill her before anything else.

15:53She looked around, her heart sinking.

15:55The metal bars were thick, rusted but still strong.

15:59The door was locked from the outside.

16:01And even if she screamed, no one would hear her.

16:04No one would come.

16:05Madaki had made sure of that.

16:07Her eyes drifted back to the leopard.

16:09Strong.

16:10Powerful.

16:11If anyone could break free, it was this creature.

16:14An idea sparked in her mind.

16:15She crawled closer, placing a gentle hand on the leopard's shoulder.

16:19It flinched slightly, but didn't move away.

16:21That was a good sign.

16:22We need to get out of here, she whispered, as if the jungle itself might be listening.

16:27She reached for one of the bars and shook it.

16:29It barely moved.

16:30But if the leopard could push with its full strength, maybe, just maybe, they had a chance.

16:36She took the leopard's injured paw and placed it against the bars.

16:39Help me, she pleaded, her voice soft but desperate.

16:43The leopard tilted its head, as if trying to understand.

16:46Then, after a moment, it growled low and stepped forward.

16:50With one massive swipe, its powerful body slammed against the bars.

16:55A loud creak echoed through the forest.

16:57The metal groaned, shifting slightly.

17:00Zuena's eyes widened.

17:01It was working.

17:02Again, the leopard pushed, its muscles flexing.

17:06The cage trembled, the rusted hinges weakening.

17:09With a final, powerful shove, the bars bent just enough for Zuena to squeeze through.

17:14Her breath caught in her throat as she realized she was free.

17:18She turned back to the leopard, fear creeping into her chest.

17:21Would it attack now that it was no longer trapped?

17:24Would it leave her behind?

17:25But to her surprise, the leopard didn't run.

17:28It stepped through the broken bars, its golden eyes meeting hers.

17:33Then, as if making a silent promise, it stood by her side.

17:37Zuena swallowed back tears.

17:39She wasn't alone in this jungle.

17:41Not anymore.

17:42She didn't wait.

17:43With the leopard beside her, she took off into the darkness.

17:46Running as fast as her tired legs could carry her.

17:49Branches scratched her skin.

17:51Roots threatened to trip her.

17:53But she didn't stop.

17:54She had spent too long locked away.

17:56Too long under Madaki's cruelty.

17:58She wouldn't let that woman win.

18:00Far away.

18:01Back in the village.

18:02Madaki stood in the center of the crowd.

18:04Her face twisted in fake sorrow.

18:06Poor Zuena.

18:07She sighed dramatically, placing a hand over her heart.

18:10She ran away into the forest.

18:12Perhaps she was too weak.

18:13Too foolish to survive.

18:15The villagers murmured among themselves.

18:17Some shaking their heads.

18:19Others whispering about Zuena's fate.

18:21Prince Jabari, standing near the back, narrowed his eyes.

18:24Something about Madaki's words felt wrong.

18:27But Madaki simply smiled.

18:29Satisfied.

18:30With Zuena gone.

18:31She had won.

18:32Or so she thought.

18:33The village was alive with celebration.

18:35Lanterns hung from trees.

18:37Casting a golden glow over the feast.

18:40Drums echoed in the air.

18:42Their deep rhythm shaking the ground.

18:44Laughter and chatter filled every corner.

18:46As the villagers enjoyed the royal banquet.

18:49Tonight was special.

18:50Prince Jabari was searching for his future bride.

18:53And everyone knew Madaki had plans to push her own niece forward in Zuena's place.

18:58Madaki sat near the prince.

19:00Her smile wide.

19:02Her voice smooth as honey.

19:04My dear Zuena was too weak for this world.

19:07She sighed.

19:08Placing a dramatic hand on her chest.

19:10She ran away into the jungle, poor thing.

19:12Who knows what became of her?

19:14She lowered her voice.

19:15Pretending to wipe a tear.

19:17But life must go on, your highness.

19:19There are many other fine women in the village.

19:21Prince Jabari gave a small nod.

19:23But something in his eyes was unsettled.

19:25He had never truly believed Madaki's story.

19:28But what could he do?

19:29Zuena was gone.

19:30Then, the drums stopped.

19:32A heavy silence fell over the village.

19:34The laughter.

19:35The talking.

19:36The music.

19:37All of it vanished in an instant.

19:39People turned.

19:40Eyes widening.

19:41Mouths parting in shock.

19:43Madaki frowned.

19:44What?

19:45Then she saw her.

19:46Zuena.

19:47Standing at the entrance of the village.

19:49Her dress was torn.

19:50Her feet covered in dust.

19:52Her face streaked with dried tears.

19:54But she stood tall.

19:56Stronger than ever.

19:57And beside her.

19:58Moving like a silent shadow.

20:00Was the leopard.

20:01Its golden eyes glowed under the torchlight.

20:04Its sleek body radiating power.

20:06Gasps filled the air.

20:08Women clutched their chests.

20:10Children hid behind their mothers.

20:12Madaki's face drained of colour.

20:14No.

20:15This…

20:16This is impossible.

20:17Prince Jabari was on his feet in an instant.

20:19Pushing past the stunned crowd.

20:21He stopped just inches from Zuena.

20:23His eyes scanning her face.

20:25Searching for answers.

20:26You're alive.

20:27He breathed.

20:28Almost as if he didn't believe his own words.

20:30Zuena held his gaze.

20:32Yes, I am.

20:33His jaw clenched.

20:34What happened?

20:35Where have you been?

20:36Zuena turned her head slightly.

20:38Her eyes locking onto Madaki.

20:40The older woman was trembling now.

20:42Her hands gripping the edge of the wooden table.

20:44As if it was the only thing keeping her upright.

20:46I was left to die.

20:47Zuena said.

20:49Her voice steady, but sharp as a blade.

20:52Thrown into a cage.

20:53Trapped with a starving leopard.

20:55Someone wanted me gone.

20:56The villagers turned to Madaki.

20:58Whispers growing louder.

20:59Eyes narrowing.

21:01Prince Jabari's face darkened.

21:03Who did this to you?

21:04Zuena took a slow step forward.

21:06The leopard beside her let out a low growl.

21:09Sensing the tension.

21:10And for the first time in her life.

21:12Madaki looked truly afraid.

21:14A heavy silence filled the village square.

21:16All eyes were on Zuena.

21:18Standing tall with the leopard at her side.

21:20The firelight flickered across her face.

21:22Highlighting the strength in her eyes.

21:24Prince Jabari stood close.

21:26His gaze locked onto hers.

21:28Waiting for her to speak.

21:30The villagers still frozen in shock.

21:32Barely breathed.

21:33Then Zuena took a deep breath.

21:35And spoke.

21:36I didn't run away.

21:37She said.

21:38Her voice steady.

21:39But filled with emotion.

21:41I was left to die.

21:42Gasps rippled through the crowd.

21:44Faces turned to one another in disbelief.

21:46But no one dared to interrupt.

21:48Zuena's eyes never left Madaki.

21:51She lured me into the jungle.

21:53She continued.

21:54Her words slicing through the air like a knife.

21:56She told me it was a sacred ritual for my mother.

21:59But it was a lie.

22:00She led me to a cage.

22:02And locked me inside.

22:03Murmurs grew louder.

22:05Some villagers looked at Madaki.

22:07Their eyes narrowing in suspicion.

22:09Others stared at Zuena in horror.

22:11In the cage.

22:12Zuena's voice trembled slightly.

22:14But she forced herself to stay strong.

22:16Was a starving leopard.

22:18She left me there laughing.

22:20She thought I would be torn apart.

22:22A woman gasped, covering her mouth.

22:24She came back to the village and told you all I had run away.

22:27She lied to all of you.

22:28Zuena's voice grew louder now.

22:30Fueled by the anger and pain she had buried deep inside.

22:34She wanted me gone because she was afraid.

22:36Afraid that I would marry the prince.

22:38Afraid that my father would always love me more.

22:41Afraid that I was stronger than her cruelty.

22:43All eyes turned to Madaki.

22:45She was trembling.

22:46Her face pale.

22:47Her mouth opening and closing like a fish gasping for air.

22:51I…

22:52This is…

22:53This is nonsense.

22:54She stammered.

22:55Forcing a weak laugh.

22:56You expect them to believe that?

22:58That I would do such a thing?

23:00She turned wildly to the crowd.

23:02She's been gone for so long.

23:04She's confused.

23:05Weak.

23:06She doesn't know what she's saying.

23:07Zuena stepped forward.

23:08The leopard let out a low, warning growl.

23:11Then tell them, Madaki, she said, her voice deadly calm.

23:15Where did you think I went, if you didn't hurt me?

23:18Why didn't you send people to look for me?

23:20Madaki's face twisted in panic.

23:22I…

23:23I thought you had left on your own.

23:25Left where?

23:26Zuena pressed.

23:27Into the jungle.

23:28Alone.

23:29With no food.

23:30No water.

23:31And you didn't even try to find me.

23:34The villagers were no longer whispering.

23:36Their faces darkened.

23:37Their murmurs turning into angry shouts.

23:40She's lying!

23:41Someone yelled.

23:42She wanted the girl dead!

23:44Another voice echoed.

23:45Monster!

23:46An elder woman spat.

23:48Zuena's father, who had been standing at the edge of the crowd, suddenly staggered forward.

23:53His face was pale, his hands shaking.

23:56Madaki, tell me this isn't true, he whispered.

23:59His voice was desperate.

24:01Broken.

24:02Tell me you didn't do this to my daughter.

24:04Madaki looked at him, her face crumbling.

24:06I…

24:07I was only protecting us.

24:09She choked out.

24:10She…

24:11She was going to take everything from me.

24:13I had no choice.

24:14Her father's face hardened.

24:16No choice?

24:17His voice cracked.

24:19You had a choice.

24:20You could have loved her.

24:21You could have treated her as your own.

24:23But you tried to kill my child.

24:25His fists clenched at his sides.

24:27You are no wife of mine.

24:29You are no mother.

24:30You are a demon.

24:32The villagers erupted.

24:33Angry voices shouted.

24:35Hands pointed.

24:36Feet stomped closer.

24:37She must be punished.

24:39Throw her out.

24:40Tie her up and leave her in the jungle.

24:42Madaki stumbled back, shaking her head.

24:44No.

24:45You can't do this.

24:46I…

24:47I am your leader's wife.

24:48You can't treat me like this.

24:50But it was too late.

24:51The people she had lied to, manipulated and mistreated had finally seen her for who she

24:56really was.

24:57And they wanted justice.

24:58Madaki's eyes darted around in panic.

25:01The villagers were closing in.

25:03Their faces twisted with anger.

25:05She could feel their rage pressing against her like a storm, ready to swallow her whole.

25:10Her breath came in short, desperate gasps.

25:13She had to get out.

25:14She had to run.

25:16Without thinking, she turned and bolted.

25:19Her feet pounded against the dirt, her heart hammering in her chest.

25:23She pushed past people, knocking over baskets, shoving aside anyone in her way.

25:28I won't let you do this to me.

25:30She shrieked.

25:31I won't be punished like this.

25:32But she didn't get far.

25:34A deep, rumbling growl sliced through the air, freezing her in place.

25:39The leopard.

25:40It moved like a shadow, swift and silent, cutting off her escape.

25:44Its golden eyes locked onto hers.

25:47Burning with something ancient.

25:49Something powerful.

25:50Madaki took a shaky step back.

25:52Her body trembling.

25:53No.

25:54No.

25:55Stay away.

25:56She cried, her voice breaking.

25:57The leopard let out a warning snarl.

25:59Baring its sharp teeth.

26:01It didn't lunge.

26:02Didn't attack.

26:03It didn't need to.

26:04It simply stood there.

26:06Its presence alone enough to paralyse her with fear.

26:09Madaki fell to her knees.

26:11Tears streamed down her face.

26:13Please.

26:14She sobbed.

26:15Have mercy.

26:16But there was none.

26:17Not from the leopard.

26:18Not from the villagers.

26:19Not even from fate.

26:20The people she had deceived.

26:22The family she had betrayed.

26:23The girl she had tried to kill.

26:25No one stepped forward to save her.

26:27Zuena watched.

26:28Her face unreadable.

26:29She had no hate in her heart.

26:31But she also had no pity left for the woman who had nearly destroyed her.

26:35The village elders stepped forward.

26:37One of them.

26:38An old woman with deep lines on her face.

26:40Spoke in a voice as cold as the night.

26:42You are no longer welcome here, Madaki.

26:44You have no home.

26:45No family.

26:46No place among us.

26:48Madaki's lips trembled.

26:50Please.

26:51I have nowhere to go.

26:52Then the jungle will take you.

26:53Another elder said firmly.

26:55The villagers parted.

26:56Making a clear path leading to the dark endless trees.

26:59The same jungle where she had left Zuena to die.

27:02Madaki turned.

27:03Looking back one last time.

27:05Hoping someone.

27:06Anyone.

27:07Would stop this.

27:08But she only saw blank faces.

27:10Unforgiving eyes.

27:12The leopard let out one last growl.

27:14Stepping closer.

27:15That was enough.

27:16With a final broken sob.

27:18Madaki ran.

27:19The jungle swallowed her whole.

27:21And she was never seen again.

27:22The village was silent.

27:24As the last echoes of Madaki's footsteps faded into the jungle.

27:28The people who once believed her lies now stood with their heads bowed.

27:32Shame heavy on their faces.

27:34But Zuena didn't look at them.

27:35Her eyes were on her father.

27:37He stood there.

27:38Broken.

27:39His hands trembling as he stepped toward her.

27:41His face.

27:42Once strong and proud.

27:43Was filled with regret.

27:45My child.

27:46He whispered.

27:47His voice cracking.

27:48I failed you.

27:49Tears welled up in Zuena's eyes.

27:51She had waited so long to hear those words.

27:53To see the truth in his eyes.

27:55Baba.

27:56She whispered back.

27:57But her voice gave out.

27:58Her father dropped to his knees before her.

28:01His hands clutching his chest as if the pain inside him was too much to bear.

28:05I was blind.

28:06I let her poison my mind and I didn't protect you.

28:09You suffered because of me.

28:10How can I ever ask for your forgiveness?

28:13His voice broke completely.

28:14And a sob escaped him.

28:16Zuena had every right to turn away.

28:18Every right to walk past him without a word.

28:20Just as he had done to her so many times.

28:23But she couldn't.

28:24She knelt down.

28:25Lifting his hands into hers.

28:27Baba.

28:28I was angry for a long time.

28:29She said softly.

28:30I cried every night.

28:32Wishing you would see me.

28:33Wishing you would believe me.

28:35But I never stopped hoping you would come back to me.

28:37A tear slipped down her cheek.

28:39I forgive you.

28:40Her father broke down completely.

28:42Pulling her into a tight embrace.

28:44The villagers watched.

28:45Some wiping their own tears.

28:47Knowing they had also played a part in her suffering.

28:50Then.

28:51A strong voice broke the moment.

28:53You are the bravest woman I have ever known.

28:56Zuena turned to see Prince Jabari standing before her.

28:59Admiration clear in his eyes.

29:01He had watched everything.

29:03The way she had fought for her life.

29:05The way she had faced Madaki with strength.

29:07And the way she had forgiven her father with kindness.

29:10He stepped closer.

29:11His gaze never leaving hers.

29:13A heart as pure as yours deserves nothing but love and happiness.

29:16He said.

29:17I would be honored if you would allow me to stand beside you.

29:20As your husband.

29:21As your protector.

29:22As the man who will cherish you for the rest of his life.

29:25Gasps rippled through the crowd.

29:27The Prince had just proposed.

29:29Zuena's heart pounded.

29:31She had never dreamed of such a moment.

29:33Not after all she had been through.

29:35But when she looked into his eyes.

29:37She saw something she had never seen in anyone before.

29:40True respect.

29:41She smiled.

29:42Her heart lighter than it had been in years.

29:45I accept.

29:46She said softly.

29:47The villagers erupted in cheers.

29:49Drums sounded.

29:50And joyful songs filled the air.

29:52It was no longer a night of pain.

29:54It was a night of celebration.

29:56As Zuena stood among her people.

29:58She realized something.

30:00She was no longer the girl who had been locked away.

30:02Waiting for someone to save her.

30:04She had saved herself.

30:06And now.

30:07She was stepping into a future filled with love.

30:09Strength.

30:10And the life she had always deserved.

30:12Years passed.

30:13But the story of Zuena never faded.

30:15It was whispered by the elders at night.

30:17Told to wide-eyed children who clung to every word.

30:20They spoke of the girl who was thrown into the jaws of death.

30:23But walked out stronger than ever.

30:25The girl who turned a beast into a friend.

30:27And darkness into light.

30:29The villagers never forgot.

30:30They learned from their mistakes.

30:32Vowing never to judge too quickly.

30:35Never to ignore the cries of the innocent.

30:37Parents reminded their children that kindness was more powerful than cruelty.

30:41That truth.

30:42Would always defeat lies.

30:44Zuena lived a life of happiness and respect.

30:46Surrounded by love.

30:47She ruled beside Prince Jabari.

30:49Not as a queen in name.

30:51But as a woman whose strength had earned the love of her people.

30:54She was no longer just a survivor.

30:56She was a symbol of hope.

30:58But deep in the jungle.

30:59Beyond the edge of the village.

31:01Another legend lived.

31:02A pair of golden eyes watched from the shadows.

31:05Never too far.

31:06Never too close.

31:07The leopard.

31:08The creature that should have taken her life.

31:10Had instead become her silent protector.

31:13Sometimes.

31:14On quiet nights.

31:15Zuena would stand at the edge of the forest.

31:17Feeling its presence.

31:19She never saw it.

31:20Never heard it.

31:21But she knew it was there.

31:23And in its own way.

31:24The leopard knew too.

31:26It had once been a prisoner.

31:27Just like her.

31:28And just like her.

31:29It had been set free.

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