Fadya and the Song of the River

Laura Nsafou Amélie-Anne Calmo

On their heads, they wear brightly coloured head wraps, and the sun kisses their dark-brown skin as they criss-cross the continent on their faithful camels.

People say that on their travels, they come to the aid of anyone who seeks their help.

Fadya was the youngest of the Luminaries. Aged nine, she was already able to find her way guided by the stars, and to tell the future from tiny bones.

But that wasn’t enough to be accepted as part of the Luminaries. To earn the honour of wearing the golden tunic, she had to prove herself.

“But what is this instrument?”

“We don’t know! She says it’s a unique instrument that accompanies the Song of the River, and that she alone knows the tune!”

“We didn’t dare ask her for more details, for fear she would turn us into cows!”

“It’s a real headache! How can we find what we don’t know we are looking for?”

“O River Goddess, these fishermen told me that you are seeking an instrument, but they have no idea what it looks like. I’d like to help you by making it for you!”

“What? You are able to do that?”

“Yes, with your help and my magic, I can do it.”

Back at the camp, Fadya told the Luminaries all about her adventure. Her mother and the others listened carefully to every detail of her story.

When she finished her tale, the little girl saw them all smile. Mira, the leader of the Luminaries, stood up and exclaimed: “Congratulations, Fadya! Not only did you help those two fishermen, but you also pacified the river. You thoroughly deserve your golden tunic.”

Fadya walked towards her and took the beautiful golden fabric that Mira was holding out to her.

That evening, Aicha made her robe, so that she could wear it the next day.

As for little Fadya, she was already dreaming of her next adventures.