Previous Summary:
Aryan and his companions celebrated their successful alliance with Namira. For once, life felt peaceful, filled with laughter, food, and music by the sea. But peace never lasts for long-Kaligarh still needed its king. With a new fleet promised by Namiran shipbuilders, Aryan prepared to return to his capital and focus on the kingdom's growing future.
The journey back to the capital was calm. The Tiger's Fang sliced through the waves like a blade, carrying Aryan, his ministers, and his companions home. When the ship finally docked at Kaligarh's main port, drums thundered from the walls and banners of the golden tiger fluttered proudly in the wind.
Crowds filled the harbor, cheering, "Long live King Aryan!" Their voices rose like a storm as Aryan stepped onto the stone pier with Veer and Sena padding beside him. The two tiger cubs, now larger and stronger, drew as much attention as the king himself.
Inside the royal palace, Aryan gathered his ministers in the grand hall.
"Report," he said firmly as he sat on the carved throne.
Finance Minister Raghav bowed. "Sire, trade revenues have doubled since your reforms. The markets are flourishing, but the nobility in the western provinces are unhappy. They complain about new taxes."
General Bhaskar stepped forward. "And the northern Empire... their scouts grow bolder near our borders. Nothing serious yet, but we should not ignore them."
Aryan listened quietly, tapping his fingers on the armrest. "Raise more patrols on the borders. As for the nobles..." He smiled faintly. "Invite them to the palace. A banquet. Let them complain to me directly-over good wine."
The ministers exchanged glances, some surprised, others amused.
"Yes, Your Majesty," Raghav replied.
After the meeting, Aryan walked into the palace gardens where Meena, Kaamaya, and Reva were waiting under a pavilion. The air smelled of roses, and the sound of a fountain trickled nearby.
"You look tired," Kaamaya said, pouring him tea.
"Kings don't rest, do they?" Aryan joked, sitting down.
Reva grinned and held up a small tray. "Then eat these sweets before you collapse."
"I told you, I prefer spicy-" Aryan started, but Meena quickly pushed a piece of honey cake into his mouth.
He coughed, almost choking, while the three girls burst into laughter.
Even Veer and Sena growled playfully as if laughing along.
For a moment, Aryan forgot about politics, nobles, and looming empires. For a moment, he was simply a young king surrounded by loyal friends, laughter, and warmth.
But deep inside, he knew this peace was fragile. Challenges would come soon.
End of Chapter 64