The Pendant

The aroma of roasting meat filled the air when they reached the hut, its savory scent wafting out through the open window. Safiya and Malik stood side by side, watching the wisps of smoke disappear into the air. Safiya's face lit up with a smile as she turned to Malik.

"Oshim is here," she said.

Malik's hand rested on her waist, refusing to let go of her ever since they had left the stream earlier. The memory of his gentle touch, the way he had embraced and kissed her, brought a flush to Safiya's cheeks.

Leaning closer to her, Malik whispered, "Lost in thoughts of us?"

Safiya playfully pushed him away and chuckled. "Okay, let's go inside."

But Malik held her hand, his eyes filled with concern. "What will you do once you have the pendant? Will it lead you to your father's killers?"

Safiya sighed, saying, "Probably, but I believe the king has an answer. Maybe he could tell me more about the pendant."