While it was a pleasant surprise to see that Jamal was not present, both Marcus and Mrazivý could only find it odd. Normally it would be expected for one's close aide and someone of Jamal's status to eat with his direct superior, who in this case was the grand elder.
'I wonder what could have happened.' Marcus thought as he warily sat down.
Thankfully Akeem addressed their confusion almost immediately after they had sat down and greeted each other.
"I am sure you noticed that Jamal is currently missing. Normally I would have him with me during meetings such as this one, but I decided to pass on some of my more tedious tasks to him so that I could personally discuss a few matters with the both of you. Whenever I am meeting with you I will be having Amira here act as my aide instead." The grand elder said, nodding towards his great granddaughter.