Chapter Seven and the final: Assuming the Position:

The king desired someone to govern the state of Athon and become its ruler. The nobility rushed forward, each desiring control. The king decided to appoint Aris as the monarch. However, Aris declined as he had no interest in ruling. The king conveyed:

King: "Just assume the position for a decade and after that, do as you wish."

Aris: "It's a challenging responsibility."

King: "Do not fear. I will assist you in some matters."

Aris finally agreed. Upon their arrival in Athon, he discovered a strange situation: the populace was impoverished, lacking even a piece of bread, and the nobility was corrupt. Aris decided to execute all the nobles. He summoned them and addressed the public:

Aris: "People, I see the downfall of this land. To rise and survive, we must eliminate these scoundrels, their children, and their wives. They stand before you, do as you wish."

The nobles were stunned, whispering amongst themselves, "Why have we been brought here?" They tried to escape, but the large crowd seized them. They were beaten, tortured, and then brutally killed as if the people were starving beasts.

Aris: "Anyone willing to help this land, head to the palace, and each of you will be given a task."

People: "What's in it for us, Your Majesty?"

Aris: "You all need food, and we have plenty. Work and you'll be compensated."

The situation stabilized, and the people regained their strength. Aris ordered the formation of an army. Out of two thousand applicants, only two hundred succeeded. Aris then sent a message to the King of Luqia, requesting military aid. The king dispatched five thousand soldiers. Aris directed them to rid the capital of criminals, increase agricultural land, and within two years, Athon flourished more than ever before.

During a visit, the King of Luqia expressed his astonishment:

King: "How did you manage to revive it so quickly?"

Aris: "It wasn't me; it was its people."

King: "Enough with your modesty."

Aris no longer harbored thoughts of vengeance against the king. However, the king, fearing a coup by Aris, initiated the drafting of a treaty with several provisions, including:

- Setting aside warfare permanently.

- Mutual trade and agricultural exchanges between the two states.

- Prohibiting the use of spies.

Aris agreed to the treaty and sealed it, continuing as an independent ruler. He reigned successfully, never losing a battle, and chose to live as an upright and just king.