The prince disguised as a beggar to find a wife

In a land steeped in tradition and ancient wonders, there once lived a man named Kojo, a prosperous merchant. Kojo had a daughter named Anaya, whose beauty was renowned across the region. Anaya’s name, meaning "princess of the dawn," suited her perfectly, for she brought light and joy wherever she went.

Her father adored her beyond measure and was exceedingly proud of her. He believed no man could match her beauty or his wealth and status.

"Anaya will only marry someone as handsome and affluent as she is," Kojo would proclaim. Suitors from all corners of the land came to seek her hand in marriage.

Some were wealthy, others noble, and many were brave, but none met Kojo's rigorous standards. He would dismiss each one, finding fault in their appearance, character, or background. “Too short, too tall, too dark, too pale, too proud, too humble, too poor, too rich,” he would say.

Anaya was disheartened by her father’s behavior. She yearned to marry for love, not for status or beauty. She cared little about a suitor’s appearance or wealth, as long as he was kind and respectful. Despite her pleas, Kojo remained unyielding, insisting, “You are my only child and my greatest treasure. I want you to have the best. Trust me; I know what’s best for you.”

One day, a young man named Ebo arrived at Kojo's home. He was a sight to behold: he had a hunchback, a twisted nose, a crooked mouth, and a limp. Dressed in rags and carrying a staff, Ebo looked like a beggar, but he was a prince in disguise.

He had heard of Anaya’s beauty and Kojo’s stubbornness and decided to test them both. Ebo possessed a magical ring that could alter his appearance and a magical staff that could grant any wish. Using these, he transformed himself into an ugly, poor man.

Approaching Kojo’s home, Ebo asked for Anaya’s hand in marriage. Kojo was repulsed and incredulous. “Who are you to come to my house and ask for my daughter’s hand? You’re not even fit to be a servant, let alone her husband. Leave before I have you thrown out.”

Ebo replied, “Do not judge me by my appearance. I am a man who loves and respects your daughter. I have come seeking your daughter’s love. I bring gifts of gold and jewels and can offer more if you accept my proposal. Please do not refuse me, for I will not take no for an answer.”

.” Ebo agreed, but requested to meet Anaya first, allowing her to decide if she wanted to marry him. Reluctantly, Kojo called for his daughter.

When Anaya entered the room and saw Ebo, she was startled by his appearance but maintained her composure. She greeted him politely and asked his intentions. Ebo said, “I seek your hand in marriage. I am a man who needs love and has brought gifts of gold and jewels. I love you with all my heart and wish to make you my wife. Will you marry me?”

Anaya, sensing kindness and nobility beyond Ebo’s outward appearance, felt a spark of curiosity. She replied, “Thank you for your offer, but I do not know you and cannot marry someone I do not love. How can I accept without knowing you?”

Ebo responded, “I understand your hesitation and respect your honesty. But give me a chance to prove myself. Spend some time with me and see if you can learn to love me. Judge me not by my looks but by my heart.”

Anaya glanced at her father, who was visibly impatient and angry. Yet, she felt a sense of pity and decided to give Ebo a chance. “Father, I respect your wishes, but I also have my own choices. This man asks for time to prove himself, and I think it’s fair. Please allow me to see what he has to offer.”

Kojo, though reluctant, could not change his daughter’s mind. He sighed and agreed, warning Ebo, “You must prove yourself worthy. Show me your true love you said, your wealth, and your ability to make my daughter happy. If you fail, you will lose her forever.”

Ebo agreed and took Anaya’s hand, leading her to a modest carriage waiting outside. They journeyed to a grand palace surrounded by lush gardens and fountains.

This was Ebo’s true home, and he used his magical ring to reveal his real, handsome self. Standing tall and noble, he introduced himself, “Welcome to my palace, Anaya. I am Prince Ebo. I sought a wife who could love me for who I am, not for my wealth or looks. You have shown great kindness and understanding. Will you marry me?”

Anaya, overwhelmed with joy and love, replied, “I am honored, Prince Ebo. I love you for who you are and accept your proposal. I will be your wife.”

The couple embraced and kissed, then entered the palace to meet the king and queen. They shared their story, receiving blessings and preparing for a grand wedding. Their union was celebrated by all, and they lived happily ever after.

The moral of this tale teaches us that true worth lies within, not in appearances. When we look beyond the surface and follow our hearts, we can find genuine happiness and love.