Chapter Five: Transformations and Challenges
**Arrival of Maxan in Granada**
**Location: Granada Gate, Dawn**
*Under the setting sun, the grand Granada Gate stands adorned with Andalusian carvings and decorations. A large crowd of citizens and military officers gathers in the square surrounding the gate, dressed in traditional Andalusian attire, watching with anticipation and excitement.*
*In the distance, a caravan of Maxan appears, dust rising in the horizon. Maxan is clad in traditional Arab armor, shining under the sun, embellished with golden engravings and intricate embroidery, and a headgear indicating his high military rank. He is accompanied by 500 soldiers wearing armor and carrying weapons that reflect power and prestige.*
**Prince Badis ibn Habus stands at the city gate, dressed in luxurious royal garments, showing signs of tension and anxiety, looking eagerly towards the road, as the return of his son after years of exile has significant impact.**
**The crowd murmurs among themselves, expressing their astonishment and bewilderment:**
"Is this really Maxan? Has he truly come by the prince's invitation?"
**An old woman speaks to her neighbor with curiosity:**
"He was exiled to Malta a long time ago. How could he return now? We thought he would never come back."
**One of the officers observes Maxan's arrival with interest:**
"The prince requested Maxan's return. What does this mean for our plans and strategies here?"
*Maxan's caravan descends confidently. Maxan approaches Prince Badis ibn Habus, who stands a few steps away. Maxan bows slightly in respect, while the audience watches the scene with anticipation.*
**Maxan, in a firm and respectful voice:**
"Father, I have answered your call and come to assist Granada in these critical times."
**Prince Badis ibn Habus, after a moment of silence, looks at Maxan seriously before extending his hand to welcome him:**
"Maxan, I did not expect your return so quickly. The situation here requires strong leadership, and I decided it was the right time to summon you."
*The spectators' gazes are filled with curiosity and concern as they closely follow the scene. Some people whisper and exchange questioning looks.*
**One of the guards speaks to his colleague in a low voice:**
"The prince requested Maxan's return despite the long years of conflict, which could raise many questions."
**Maxan orders his soldiers to organize themselves:**
"Let's start with the arrangements and coordination; we have a big task ahead."
**Prince Badis ibn Habus signals to the guards:**
"Let's begin the necessary procedures. Maxan, we need to meet soon to devise a joint plan to face the upcoming challenges."
*Maxan moves quickly among his troops, starting to coordinate arrangements with military leaders, while Prince Badis ibn Habus heads to the command center to oversee the affairs.*
**The people talk among themselves anxiously:**
"The situation seems complicated. Maxan's return, despite the invitation, might lead to a reshaping of the city's status."
---
**In Prince Badis ibn Habus's Palace**
*Main conference hall where ministers and military officers meet to discuss military situation and future plans.*
**Minister Yusuf ibn Nigrala:**
"My lord, I did not expect Maxan's return at this critical time. We are facing a military crisis, and I believe Maxan's return could complicate matters given the challenges of managing state affairs."
**Prince Badis ibn Habus:**
"I fully understand the concerns regarding Maxan. However, his return at this pivotal moment is of great importance. He has proven himself as an exceptional field commander, and that's what we need to strengthen our army."
**Minister Arab al-Nay:**
"Maxan's return might strengthen our old alliances. Although his marriage to the daughter of the leader of Banu Isa was a long time ago, the alliances formed still positively impact us. This could be beneficial in strengthening our strategic position."
*Outside the hall, in the palace garden, Maxan talks with military officers to coordinate preparations.*
**Maxan:**
"I am here to reorganize the army and enhance its capabilities. We must work together effectively to face the upcoming challenges. Let's unite and be prepared for any developments."
*In an administrative discussion room among ministers.*
**Minister Yusuf ibn Nigrala:**
"We need a clear plan to coordinate between Maxan and the rest of the leadership. It's crucial to ensure that all resources are utilized efficiently without leaving room for chaos."
**Minister Arab al-Nay:**
"Nevertheless, we cannot ignore the benefits of our old alliances. Collaborating with Maxan, given his strong military background, might positively affect our ability to handle crises."
**Prince Badis ibn Habus:**
"We need to focus on effectively uniting our efforts. We must be flexible in our strategies and make the most of all available resources."
---
**Inside a private room in the Granada Palace**
**Prince Badis ibn Habus:**
"Maxan, I want you to lead the army in this war. Granada depends on you, and you must achieve victory. After that, I will remain here to manage the city and negotiate immediately."
**Maxan:**
"Father, I did not know the war would start so early. How should we prepare now? Our plan relied on postponing to allow more time."
**Prince Badis ibn Habus:**
"Events have accelerated unexpectedly. Sevilla surprised us, and we had to act quickly. What was planned to be a war in a year has now become a reality. However, we have strong support from Banu Isa, and I need you to leverage this support and prepare."
**Prince Badis ibn Habus after a moment:**
"I also want you to know that your cousin Tamim will accompany you to the war. It is important that you take care of him as he is still young and needs guidance. Ensure he is protected and faces no danger."
**Maxan, with concern:**
"I will make sure he receives the necessary care, and I will do my best to protect him and fulfill my duty. However, I think about the importance of unifying efforts and coordinating them to ensure success."
**Prince Badis ibn Habus:**
"That's what I need. Prepare well, and we will handle everything step by step. I wish you success, and remember that Granada depends on you. Take care of Tamim, as he is also part of our future."
---
**In Yusuf ibn Nigrala's office**
**Yusuf ibn Nigrala angrily:**
"Son, we have a major problem. With Maxan's arrival in Granada, our plan is no longer feasible as we hoped."
**Yusuf's son nervously:**
"But how does Maxan's arrival affect our plan?"
**Yusuf ibn Nigrala:**
"Maxan was not part of our original plan. We intended to execute a strategy targeting Prince Badis ibn Habus and then install one of his descendants in his place. But Maxan has come from Malta with only five hundred soldiers, and he is not part of our current strategies."
**Yusuf ibn Nigrala, with concern:**
"Moreover, we must consider that Prince Badis ibn Habus may be in a weakened state due to his age. His deteriorating health might accelerate decision-making, complicating the situation."
**Yusuf's son anxiously:**
"What should we do now? How do we handle this unexpected change?"
**Yusuf ibn Nigrala firmly:**
"We need to quickly reassess our strategies. We must come up with new plans that take into account Maxan's small force and the potential weakness of the prince's health. We need to be prepared for any changes in the situation."
**Yusuf's son, curious:**
"Why was Prince Badis ibn Habus planning for war in the first place? What were his motives?"
**Yusuf ibn Nigrala, after deep thought:**
"It is likely that the prince was planning the war as a means to enhance his power and build his reputation. His goal may have been to assert his military strength and establish a strong image before initiating a gradual transfer of power to Maxan. The prince is dealing with health issues due to old age and planned to use this war as an opportunity to solidify Maxan's position as his successor."
**Yusuf ibn Nigrala, with concern:**
"His plan was to show everyone that Maxan is capable of leading the army and achieving victories, which would facilitate the transition of power to him upon his retirement or worsening illness. With his health deteriorating, the need for this has increased."
**Yusuf's son, worried:**
"So things have become more complicated. If the prince is planning to transfer power to Maxan quickly, we have limited time to act before Maxan becomes stronger."
**Yusuf ibn Nigrala decisively:**
"Yes, and with the prince suffering from declining health, we must be prepared to act quickly. If Maxan gains more power and support from some leaders in Granada, our position will become more complicated."
**Yusuf's son, anxious:**
"Do we have contingency plans to deal with this situation?"
**Yusuf ibn Nigrala, firmly:**
"Certainly, we will reassess and adjust our strategies according to the new situation. We must remain vigilant and ready to face the upcoming challenges. Time is of the essence now, and we must use it wisely."
---
**In the palace courtyard**
*The courtyard is decorated with warm colors and an atmosphere of anticipation and respect.*
**Prince Badis ibn Habus looks at Abdullah with a kind smile:**
"Abdullah, I see courage in you, but you are still young for battle. You must understand that there are times for learning and times for preparation. As long as I am here, I will be with you in spirit and thought."
**Abdullah, relieved:**
"Thank you, grandfather, I will make the most of everything I have learned."
**Maxan, reassuringly:**
"Abdullah, you will have other roles. This time is for learning the basics. You will stay in the palace to assist and learn, and we will do everything we can to prepare you."
**Tamim confidently:**
"I will be with you in battle, and I will ensure that we cooperate and succeed. We are family, and we must stay united at all times."
**Prince Badis ibn Habus smiles contentedly:**
"Yes, Tamim. Maxan, I appreciate your presence with us. I will be with all of you in my thoughts and prayers."
**Maxan, with gratitude:**
"Everyone has their place. Abdullah, you will stay here and learn, and we will fight together to achieve victory. Remember that your grandfather will always be with you in spirit."
**Abdullah smiles slightly:**
"I will do that. Thank you all."
---