Anatse greeted and entered a large living room called Shakallo, which is only accessible to those with special permission. The room was designed like a museum, spacious and adorned with gold decorations, with a large carpet covering the entire floor and royal-themed cushions scattered on it.

Five people were seated in the room: four men and an elderly woman, the latter being the head of the household, around 76 years old, wearing an Alkaybba and holding a tissue and prayer beads. The men included Waziri, Wambai, Makama, and Sarkin Dawaki. Two other elderly men, resembling the head of the household, entered and sat down. The protagonist, Kabeer, felt nervous due to the presence of these influential figures. He approached the center of the room, found a seat, and asked the head of the household if she had summoned him. She confirmed, explaining that his father's friends had called him as the eldest son of the king. Makama then inquired if all his siblings had arrived, to which Kabeer responded affirmatively, except for Riyad, whom he couldn't reach.

The head of the household expressed frustration over Riyad's constant travels and inability to stay in one place. Despite attempts to contact him, even his mother, Fulani, couldn't reach him. The discussion was interrupted by Sarkin Wambai, who insisted they proceed with the king's burial without delay, assuming Riyad would eventually hear the news and return.

After leaving the room, Kabeer went to his mother's flat, who was the first wife. The palace was grand, indicating immense wealth. Despite the ongoing mourning, Kabeer signaled his mother to follow him to her room, where they discussed the situation. His mother expressed relief that Riyad hadn't been found, as she saw him as the only obstacle to Kabeer's ascension. She advised Kabeer to maintain a strong presence and show affection to his siblings to gain favor. She assured him that she would handle any opposition, including their uncle Hambali, and emphasized that Kabeer was the rightful heir. Kabeer, pleased with the plan, left the room, masking his true emotions with a somber expression