INT. ASTANA NUSA PALACE HALL - DAY

The atmosphere in the palace hall is tense, as Lastika, now the Regent of Rainusa, sits comfortably on the throne of Astana Nusa. A sense of power and control radiates from her as she enjoys her sweets and intoxicating drinks, her chin propped up regally.

A male ROYAL OFFICIAL approaches Lastika cautiously, seeking her wisdom. His voice quivers as he addresses her.

ROYAL OFFICIAL

Thank you for your wisdom, Your Majesty. The village of Huda Waru shall be released from paying tribute...

Lastika interrupts sharply, her eyes narrowing with authority.

LASTIKA

I am not finished yet. Three months from now, they shall pay double the tribute to make up for the previous three months.

The official is taken aback by Lastika's unexpected decision, his words caught in his throat.

ROYAL OFFICIAL

B-but, King Marakata wouldn't...

LASTIKA

Presumptuous! The King is dead, and I am correcting his wrong rules! The people have become soft and corrupt! Challenge my decision once more, and your head will be forfeited!

The official recoils in fear, salutes, and quickly exits the palace hall.

Meanwhile, Lastika indulges in her luxuries, taking a bite of a rai orange before discarding it carelessly. A maid rushes to clean up the fallen fruit, maintaining order within the grandeur.

Suddenly, a SOLDIER kneels before Lastika, accompanied by a messenger from the neighboring country of Madangkara. Lastika's demeanor changes as she hears the mention of Madangkara, her interest piqued.

SOLDIER

Your Highness, a messenger from Madangkara is here to deliver an important letter.

Lastika's curiosity is tinged with annoyance.

LASTIKA

It is probably a letter of condolence, like the others. I will read it later.

MESSENGER

Forgive my impertinence, Your Majesty, but the contents of this letter go beyond condolences. Ignoring it would invite Madangkara's wrath.

Reluctantly, Lastika opens the scroll, written on palm leaves, and reads the contents. Her face turns pale momentarily, realizing the implications.

LASTIKA

Envoy of Madangkara! When will King Airlangga's entourage arrive in Danurah?

MESSENGER

Tomorrow, Your Majesty.

LASTIKA

General Paraya!

I PUTU PARAYA, a seasoned General, kneel before Lastika.

LASTIKA

Prepare a state welcome for King Airlangga! Everything must be ready by sunrise tomorrow! No need for decorations, given the time of mourning.

General Paraya acknowledges the order without question.

GENERAL PARAYA

Yes, Your Majesty.

Paraya hurries out of the hall to carry out the demanding task at hand.

LASTIKA

That is Rainusa's answer. Report to your King. That will be all for today.

Lastika stands abruptly and swiftly exits the throne hall, her mind filled with the weight of political maneuvering and the challenges that lie ahead.

CUT TO:

INT. LASTIKA'S HOUSE - DAY

Lastika, with a sense of urgency, enters her old house located in the outer circle of the Astana Nusa compound. She calls out for SARI, her voice echoing through the space.

LASTIKA

Sari! Sari!

There is no response. The silence deepens, confirming that Sari is not present. Lastika's face tightens with worry and anxiety.

She knows that due to her position as Royal Regent, she and Sari cannot immediately move into the inner circle of the palace. They must wait until the mourning period is over before arranging their living arrangements. But now, that dream seems distant and unattainable.

Time is of the essence. Lastika swiftly packs a few clothes and gathers some money. She changes into her worn-out mourning attire and adorns a gray bonnet on her head. Lastika takes a moment to write a letter and slips it into Sari's fan, which doubles as a concealed weapon.

At the doorstep, Lastika gazes into the distance, her eyes searching for any sign of Sari's return. Sadly, her daughter is nowhere in sight. Tears well up in Lastika's eyes as she faces the painful truth.

With a heavy heart, she turns away from her home, the place that holds cherished memories. Step by step, Lastika walks away, leaving the palace grounds and her beloved daughter behind. She abandons everything, her past life and the comfort of familiarity, driven by circumstances beyond her control.

FADE OUT.