In the grand hall of the Rajputhana palace, Vikram, adorned in regal attire, sat upon his throne, surrounded by his advisors, their voices echoing off the ornate walls as they debated the fate of the conquered kingdom of Paudhagarh. Vaibhav and the others offered their perspectives, some advocating for a renaming to solidify their dominance, while others argued for keeping its name intact as a symbol of their conquest.

As the discussion unfurled like the delicate petals of a flower, Vikram's keen eyes swept across the expansive hall, taking in every detail. He was well aware of the return of the remainder of his army, led by none other than the esteemed general, whose triumphant arrival had echoed through the corridors mere hours ago. Which is why, the absence of his childhood friend, whose expertise in matters of conquest and plunder was unparalleled, stirred Vikram's suspicions. Yet, he set aside his concerns momentarily, choosing to focus on the pressing matters before him.