The Lights Festival

Not only was Malakai acutely aware that Amani was missing, but he had also become completely unhinged. He had ordered a thorough search for her throughout the palace, with all the guards tirelessly combing every nook and cranny. Not stopping there, he had even dispatched his own patrol to venture beyond the palace gates.

He left no stone unturned in his efforts to find her, spreading the word far and wide about her disappearance and emphasizing the urgency of her safe return. To sweeten the deal, he put forth a generous reward for anyone who could bring her back unharmed.

As he followed her elusive scent, it took him on a meandering path throughout the palace, tracing her every step and lingering presence. The frustration mounted as he found himself going in circles, until a more distinct aroma of hers caught his attention. It beckoned him, growing stronger and stronger, until it guided him to an unexpected location - the stables. Despite the overpowering stench of horse dung, Amani'