Episode 7, titled The Banishment, was filled with emotion as Queen Modjadji (Makoma Mohale) faced the painful reality of her mother's betrayal, Dzugudini (Masutang Rasekele). Tough decisions that could shape the future of the kingdom had to be made – putting the queen’s strength and leadership to the ultimate test. Here are some of the key moments from this episode.
Dzugudini’s crumbling plan
The episode begins with Dzugudini reflecting on her past, only to be shaken back to the present by the worrying sound of horns – a call that signals an important royal council meeting. In a moment of worry, Dzugudini rushes into the forest, where she finds her brother Mamaila’s (Wiseman Zitha) weapon discarded beside a bloody rock, but no sign of him. Desperate, she summons Thibule (Collen Magongwa) demanding answers as to why his plans to kill the queen have failed. Thibule appears but refuses to be commanded, reminding Dzugudini that he alone is in control. This leaves Dzugudini shaken, realising that her pact with Thibule has placed her in a position of submission rather than power. Raisibe (Helen Lebepe) witnesses this exchange and gathers the final evidence to expose Dzugudini.
Raisibe reclaims her place
Banished from the royal compound, Raisibe resorts to tracking Dzugudini. Her findings are shocking, revealing the depth of Dzugudini’s betrayal. In a heartfelt and urgent plea, she urges Modjadji to follow her, exposing Dzugudini’s treachery. The queen is forced to confront the harsh reality of her mother’s betrayal, a moment that is both heartbreaking and defining. As Modjadji confronts Dzugudini, the extent of her mother’s deceit is laid bare. This painful revelation mends the rift between Raisibe and Modjadji, rekindling their bond and restoring Raisibe as the queen’s trusted ally. In this intense moment, Khadikhulu (Mudi Mudau) expresses her deep disappointment in Dzugudini. She had hoped for Dzugudini to stand taller than her father, be stronger than all women and one day fulfil her destiny as a great aunt. Instead, Dzugudini chose greed over greatness, a decision that Khadikhulu Dzugudini will one day regret.
Mercy given, regret born
Dzugudini is captured and brought to trial, where the evidence against her is overwhelming. Additional information that Dzugudini had stolen the rain charms is revealed, a grave offence that solidifies her as an enemy of the kingdom. The trial reaches its most intense moment as Modjadji faces the agonising decision of whether to sentence her mother to death or seek another way to handle this betrayal. In a moment of compassion, Modjadji chooses to banish Dzugudini rather than execute her, declaring that she is not her father or mother, and though Dzugudini will live, she can never return to the kingdom. However, this act of mercy soon gives rise to regret. Dzugudini manages to escape, and while her next moves are uncertain, the possibility that she may continue plotting against Modjadji looms large. This escape introduces a new layer of tension and uncertainty for the kingdom.
Secrets, lies, and the shadow of doubt
As the episode ends, the future of the Balobedu kingdom remains unclear. The birth of Mamaila’s son in the Bapedi kingdom adds another potential challenger to the throne, complicating the situation further. The royal council is deeply divided – some members still believe that Mamaila is the rightful heir, while others are beginning to support the idea of a female ruler, especially after witnessing the rain that has blessed the kingdom during Modjadji's reign. The belief that a leopard attacked Mamaila is widely accepted, but what will happen when the truth that Raisibe is responsible for his death is unveiled?
With Dzugudini’s escape, the divided council, and secrets waiting to be exposed, the kingdom’s future is more uncertain than ever. Will Modjadji’s act of mercy lead to the kingdom’s downfall, or will she find a way to overcome these growing threats?
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