spirit-possession

In this chapter, Tendai, Rita, and Kuda are captured by the Masks, sinister figures who use their disguises to channel the powers of the Gondwannan spirit world. The Masks plan to sacrifice the children as messengers to their gods, a fate that means death and spiritual possession. Tendai struggles with fear and self-doubt but recalls his warrior heritage to find inner strength as they are taken to the Gondwannan Embassy, where a terrifying ritual is about to begin.

In this chapter, Tendai becomes the chosen spirit medium for the mhondoro, an ancient tribal spirit, during a tense ceremony involving the powerful Big-Head Mask and the Gondwannan Masks. As the ceremony unfolds, the She Elephant disrupts the proceedings, leading to chaos and a battle between the Gondwannans and the local people. Tendai's connection with the mhondoro deepens, highlighting themes of heritage, belonging, and resistance against oppression.