Maghan Kon Fatta's first wife, Sassouma Berete, is anxious about the prophecy that seems to be unfolding, as it threatens her son Dankaran Touman's chances of ruling Mali after his father. She is relieved when it becomes clear that her rival's son is unable to walk. Despite various remedies attempted by Sogolon and the king, Sundiata remains unable to walk. The king takes a third wife, Namandje, whose son Manding Bory becomes Sundiata's closest friend. Seeking further insight about his sons, the king receives assurance that Sundiata is indeed the prophesied heir. To support Sundiata, he assigns Balla Fasseke, the son of his own griot, to be Sundiata's griot.

Shortly thereafter, the king passes away. Sassouma collaborates with the council of elders to ensure her son Dankaran Touman ascends to the throne. She encourages others to mock Sogolon and her children, especially targeting Sundiata, who is still crawling at seven years old. One day, after being taunted, Sogolon tearfully tells Sundiata that he cannot gather baobab leaves for her like other boys do for their mothers. In response, Sundiata requests an iron rod. Using it to stand, he takes his first steps. He strides to a baobab tree, uproots it entirely, and brings it to his mother. From that moment on, Sundiata excels in physical activities, particularly hunting.

As time goes on, Sassouma becomes increasingly concerned that Sundiata will seize the throne from her son. When Sundiata is ten, she enlists the nine great witches of Mali to eliminate him. They agree to try, but when Sundiata responds to their deceit with kindness, they find themselves unable to harm him and instead pledge their powers for his protection.

Sundiata's mother, Sogolon, realizes that their family is endangered at the Mali court. When the regent prince Dankaran Touman sends Sundiata's griot, Balla Fasseke, to the court of the sorcerer king Soumaoro, Sogolon and her children decide to leave. Sundiata promises to return one day to reclaim the throne.