Previous Summary:
King Aryan had returned to Kaligarh after forming a strong alliance with King Balram of Aklak. He instructed his advisors to draft a formal contract and invite Balram for a royal visit. When one minister questioned Aryan's decision, Aryan reminded them firmly that advisors serve at his will, not the other way around. Preparations for Balram's visit began.
The news of King Balram's visit spread through every corner of Kaligarh. The capital buzzed with energy. Streets were swept clean, new banners were hung, and workers decorated the city gates with fresh flowers and fine silks.
Inside the palace, Aryan's advisors gathered every morning. Craftsmen and artisans were called in to build special archways, golden thrones, and banquet tables large enough to feed hundreds.
Minister Ravi bowed and said,
Ravi: "My King, the people are excited. They say no foreign king has entered Kaligarh in many years. They are eager to see the warriors of Aklak."
Aryan nodded.
Aryan: "Good. Let the people see. This visit is not just for alliance—it is to show Kaligarh is open, strong, and ready for the future."
Blacksmiths worked day and night forging gifts of gold and silver. Jewelers crafted ornaments to be presented to Balram's wives. Musicians and dancers were trained for a grand welcoming performance.
Meanwhile, Aryan walked through the palace halls with his cousin Devraj, who could not stop grinning.
Devraj: "Brother, I heard the Aklak soldiers are taller than us by a head, and their armor shines like the sun! Our women are already gossiping about them."
Aryan chuckled.
Aryan: "Let them gossip. What matters is that Kaligarh shows its strength and honor."
Finally, the day arrived.
The gates of Kaligarh opened wide. From afar, a thunderous sound of drums and marching steps echoed.
First came a thousand guards of Aklak—towering men in shining steel, carrying massive spears, axes, and shields. Some wore beast-like masks, others rode great black horses that seemed bred for war. Their discipline and power made the crowd gasp in awe.
Behind them, three royal carriages rolled in, each more magnificent than the last. Inside sat Balram's three wives, dressed in rich silks and glittering jewels, their beauty admired by the people of Kaligarh.
And then came King Balram himself—riding at the very front on a mighty warhorse, taller than any man around him. His armor gleamed dark bronze, his shoulders broad, his presence commanding. Even without speaking, he looked like a king born to conquer.
The people of Kaligarh cheered, shouting,
"Long live King Aryan! Welcome King Balram!"
Children ran forward to throw flowers, while nobles stood in neat rows, bowing with respect.
Aryan stepped forward from the palace gates, dressed in his royal robes, his wolf riders lined behind him like shadows. For a moment, two kings' eyes met—one human, one of the Aklak. Both strong, both powerful, yet now bound by friendship.
The drums roared louder, and the chapter ended with the grand entrance of King Balram into Kaligarh.
✅ End of Chapter 70