RE: ADSactly Short Stories - The Gods Never Leave Us Empty-Handed
"Be careful for what you wish for, it might just come true" - I think various cultures have this as a refrain if phrased differently, and this story, I think is a sobering example of that. It's hard to imagine the kinds of thoughts that would have gone through the Chief's mind once he saw the body of his son - grief, confusion, anger, all with no answers. I suppose Agwoturumbe already had a feeling that something like this would transpire but I guess he can't give details otherwise that might spoil his power.
The desire to not come home empty handed, or to not bring shame on the family, is a powerful motivator but can result in decisions like Amanze Jr's scheme to buy a car, gift it to his father but then steal and sell it so that he can return to America. Wow! From knowing his motivations, I can understand why, but just because he has a reason for doing things this way doesn't mean it's right.
Thank you for writing and sharing this story, it is dark but it is a warning as you said in another comment - though the gods be silent, that doesn't mean they're sleeping.