36. Dire Situation.

Malik's eyes widened. That was definitely the sound of the bamboo horn, and though faint, he was sure of it.

Did Salam find something? He caught Safiya also looking in the direction of the sound, but only briefly; she must have dismissed it as an animal, which was a relief.

"I have to go," he informed her. If Salam has found something that will help them, then he needs to be there immediately.

Safiya's eyes widened. "Back to the palace?" she asked curiously.

Malik sighed, his hands shaking slightly. It felt uncomfortable to lie to her, but he knew this information couldn't be revealed yet.

There was no evidence of what was happening, but if this death had occurred here, it could escalate quickly, and soon everyone would know.

"Come with me," Malik said, nodding toward the source of the sound. Without a word, she followed, her curiosity piqued by what might lie ahead.