When the sacred Shadow Mask of Kumasi vanishes on the eve of the grand Akwasidae Festival, chaos threatens to tear the palace apart. Without the mask, the sacred dance cannot be performed and Nana Kwabena once again stands accused of failure. But Afia refuses to let her friend and guardian take the blame. With reluctant sidekick Yaw at her heels, she dives into a maze of palace gossip, secret tunnels, and shadowy suspects. From jealous dancers to scheming chiefs, everyone looks guilty. And when a false mask is "miraculously" discovered, Afia realizes the real thief is still lurking in the dark. Armed only with her torch, her questions, and Yaw's grumbling humor, Afia must unmask the true culprit before the festival drums begin or watch her kingdom's honor crumble. A witty, suspenseful adventure filled with palace intrigue, Ghanaian heritage, and the courage of one clever child. Perfect for readers aged 9–12 who love mysteries and fearless heroines.