Previous Chapter Recap:
Kaligarh prepared with all its strength and beauty to welcome King Balram of Aklak. Craftsmen decorated streets, ministers arranged the palace, and the people rushed with excitement. Finally, Balram entered Kaligarh with one thousand guards, three wives in carriages, and his tall warriors, leaving the people astonished.
The sun was dipping low, painting the sky golden as the gates of Kaligarh opened wide. Drums rolled, and trumpets sang in the air. King Aryan Mehta stood at the palace steps with his advisors, his mother, and the three young women who often stayed close by his side—Kaamaya, Meena, and Reva.
The crowd gasped when King Balram and his people entered the great hall. The Aklak soldiers were like giants compared to Kaligarh's men, tall and broad, their armor polished black with shining silver edges. Behind them, Balram's three wives stepped gracefully from their jeweled carriages, dressed in silk robes decorated with patterns of golden vines.
Aryan raised his hand.
Aryan: "Welcome, King Balram of Aklak. Kaligarh greets you as a friend."
Balram stepped forward. His deep voice carried strength.
Balram: "And I, Balram, bring you greetings from the land of Aklak. May our meeting bring peace and power to both our people."
The two kings clasped hands firmly, a sign of respect. The hall filled with applause, echoing off the tall marble pillars.
Aryan then introduced his family and closest circle.
Aryan: "This is my mother, Lady Leela. These are my trusted companions—Kaamaya, Meena, and Reva. And here, my loyal advisors who help shape Kaligarh's path."
Balram, too, introduced his three wives, tall and graceful, each bowing with dignity.
After the formal greetings, Aryan stretched his arm toward the grand doors of the banquet hall.
Aryan: "Let us eat and celebrate before we speak of matters of the throne."
The banquet hall glowed with hundreds of oil lamps. Long tables were set, covered in embroidered cloth. Servants hurried forward, carrying trays and dishes.
One by one, the food was revealed:
Roasted lamb seasoned with saffron and herbs.
Platters of spiced rice, golden and steaming.
Fresh fish, caught from the river, grilled with lemon and salt.
Sweet honey dates and dried figs stacked high in bowls.
Warm bread, soft inside and crisp outside.
Bowls of lentil stew, fragrant with garlic and cumin.
And for drink, silver pitchers of sweet fruit juice, wine, and cool water.
Musicians played soft tunes with flutes and drums, while dancers in colorful silk performed for the kings. Kaligarh's people showed their skills—jugglers, poets, and sword-dancers. Then Aklak's warriors gave their own display: two giant men clashing with heavy axes, their power shaking the ground. The crowd roared with excitement.
Laughter filled the hall. Aryan leaned back in his seat, watching carefully. Balram's eyes glowed with pride, and even the serious Aklak guards allowed themselves to smile at the feast.
As the last dish of sugared almonds was brought to the table, Aryan raised his hand for silence.
Aryan: "The feast has shown the friendship of our people. Now, let us come to proper discussion."
The hall grew quiet, and all eyes turned to the two kings.
End of Chapter 71.