LONDON (AP) – Britain’s new king is preparing to meet with the prime minister and plans to address a nation mourning Queen Elizabeth II. The queen was only British monarch most of the world had known and was a force of stability in a volatile age. The country began a 10-day mourning period Friday. Bells tolled around Britain and 96 gun salutes were planned in London. That’s one for each year of the queen’s long life. People around the globe gathered at British embassies to pay homage to the queen. She died Thursday in Scotland. King Charles III spent much of his 73 years preparing for the role and takes the throne in an era of uncertainty for both his country and the monarchy itself.