Preparation.

As Malik entered the palace gates, his attention was immediately drawn to the lively scene in the courtyard. A feast was spread out before him, and in the center of the courtyard, a group of people sat in a circle, enthralled by the dancers who were rhythmically stamping their feet and swaying their hips to the beat of the drummers seated on the ground.

Malik silently prayed that nothing would disturb the forthcoming coronation, neither war nor any dark force. Passing through the crowd, he could feel the excitement and joy as everyone eagerly awaited the crowning of their next king.

Upon entering the palace, his priority was to meet Meka before greeting the king. As he made his way through the corridors, he suddenly came face to face with the first queen, who was accompanied by guards and wore her usual frown.

Despite his desire to simply pass by without acknowledgment, she called out to him, her stern voice making it seem as though he were in trouble.