Empire Ascension: The Rise of the Fated One

Chapter 21: Aditya's Choice

Since the day Aditya found himself in this new world, he understood the delicate balance between the ruler and the ruled. Just as the emperor requires the support of his nobles for internal security, the nobles rely on the emperor for protection from external threats.

With the current tensions, any reforms proposed publicly that don't align with the nobles' interests could backfire disastrously. Even introducing modern weaponry to the nobles could become a dangerous gamble, as it might be turned against the empire if they rebelled.

So, Aditya proposed to introduce reforms that would be favorable to the nobles or at least not offend them during the meeting. However, simply passing reforms wouldn't be enough to bring about real change.

The society needed a powerful organization to set an example, instill confidence, and motivate others to follow suit. And in Aditya's vision, a company was the perfect vehicle for this purpose.

To consolidate power and bring the nobles under the empire's control, Aditya drew inspiration from the model of the East India Company, which the British had used in his past timeline. His plan involved gradually expanding influence and then tightening control, much like the British had done.

However, despite his experience with public speaking as a teacher, Aditya felt nervous addressing the emperor's court as a prince, especially when requesting a reward that might go against the nobles' interests.

The pressure weighed heavily on him, adding to his apprehension as he stood before the assembled nobility.

After a brief pause, Aditya responded to the inquiry with a composed demeanor, his thoughts carefully formulated around the concept of a company. The entire assembly was captivated, yet puzzled, by this unfamiliar term.

A noble, sensing the collective curiosity, respectfully addressed Aditya, seeking clarification, "Your Highness, could you kindly elaborate what you mean by 'company'?"

In a manner befitting his station, Aditya elucidated, "A company is an organization that engages in commerce and provides services in exchange for monetary compensation.

It is much like a merchant group, but in a broader perspective, it's an organization under a single authority and has a clear hierarchy of operatives."

As his explanation resonated through the hall, even the Emperor furrowed his brow in consideration, pondering the implications of such a proposition.

In the current era of feudal lords, most business ventures were small and mainly led by less prominent nobles. Wealthier nobles usually managed many smaller groups involved in similar activities under their support.

Among nobles, trading was not highly regarded, and they preferred owning land to show their wealth. So, the idea of being directly involved in business without noble supervision was completely new and unheard of.

In response to Aditya's assertion, Sayantika Sen, initially intrigued by the prince's proposal, voiced her query, "Aditya, why do you seek to venture into commerce when you hold the esteemed position as the sole prince of our empire, with access to ample resources and tax revenue?"

Aditya, with a thoughtful gaze, replied to Sayantika's inquiry, "Your Grace, while it is true that as the prince of our empire, I am privileged with access to abundant resources and tax revenue, my aspiration for commerce stems from a broader vision for our realm.

By establishing a company, I aim to not only enhance our economic prosperity but also foster innovation, create employment opportunities, and promote trade relations both within and beyond our borders.

Through commerce, we can diversify our revenue streams, reduce dependency on traditional sources of income, and lay the foundation for a more resilient and dynamic economy.

Furthermore, by engaging in commerce, we can demonstrate our ability to adapt and thrive in an evolving world, setting an example for our subjects and allies alike."

But just then, the Minister of Public Affairs, Sukhwindar Singh, inquired, spoke up, his voice carrying a note of curiosity, "But Your Highness, what type of company do you want to form and what business do you want to do?"

"Your grace," Aditya began, his voice steady despite the butterflies in his stomach, "I propose the formation of a company," Aditya continued, "a trading company that will serve as a vehicle for expanding our influence and securing our borders.

I envision a company that will trade with distant lands, establish colonies, and protect our interests abroad. But I must ask your majesty emperor permission to have my own military to act as escort and mercenary as sole part of the company".

Murmurs rippled through the court as Aditya's words sank in. Some nobles looked intrigued, while others appeared skeptical.

"But Your Highness," one noble spoke up, his voice tinged with caution, "isn't this akin to granting a private army? Are we not risking the stability of our empire by allowing such power to fall into the hands of a single entity?"

Amidst the murmurs and whispers of the court, Prince Aditya stood tall, his voice resonating with authority as he addressed the assembled nobles.

"For military, our soldiers won't be armed with swords or spears but rather with other arms our military currently possesses and daggers for close combat defence, Also I aim to conduct research on range arms to sell it to our friendly nobles " he declared firmly.

"We do not seek to invade, but rather only to protect our interests. However, we don't want to consume the resources of other nobles or become a burden for escort, so we will also request the sardars(knight equivalent) and local infantry from other nobles.

And rewards will be shared as per the contribution."

During that period in India, firearms known as arquebuses were commonly used. Early arquebuses were notorious for their significant recoil, which made them challenging to handle.

Loading them was a time-consuming process, leaving the user vulnerable during reloading unless employing the 'continuous fire' tactic of line formation which was introduced in much later years.

Additionally, arquebuses had a tendency to overheat. Despite attempts to innovate and reduce recoil, the improvements were minimal, making them less popular.

Aditya's expressed interest in utilizing firearms primarily for support rather than as the main force pleased the nobles, as it indicated a focus on auxiliary rather than frontline combat.

At these words, the nobles nodded in understanding, their suspicions of holding enormous power fading away.

Aditya smirked to himself, thinking, 'Ha! Ignorant fools. Just wait till I show you the real power of imperialism, all while keeping things peaceful. Good lambs!'

Just then another noble, his brow furrowed in thought, spoke up. "And what of the potential for abuse of power? How can we trust that this company will act in the best interests of the empire and not solely for its own profit?"

Aditya pretended thoughtfully. "A valid concern, noble lord," he conceded. "But I propose that the company be subject to strict oversight and regulation by the crown.

We will appoint trusted officials to monitor its activities under prime minister and ensure compliance with our laws and principles. In this way, we can mitigate the risk of abuse and safeguard the interests of our empire."

Following Aditya's eloquent response, the court fell into a contemplative silence, with nobles exchanging curious glances and murmuring amongst themselves.

Some nodded in understanding, acknowledging the wisdom in Aditya's words, while others remained skeptical, their brows furrowed in thought.

Emperor Hemu, though initially taken aback by Aditya's unplanned and unconventional proposal, listened intently, his expression reflecting a mixture of intrigue and cautious consideration.

As the implications of Aditya's vision began to sink in, a sense of anticipation permeated the air, with whispers of debate and discussion swirling throughout the chamber.

Sayantika Sen, impressed by Aditya's foresight and ambition, nodded approvingly, her earlier skepticism giving way to admiration for the prince's bold vision.

She recognized the potential of Aditya's proposal to revolutionize the empire's economic landscape and propel it into a new era of prosperity.

However, not all present shared Sayantika's optimism. Some nobles along with Sukhwindar , steeped in tradition and wary of change, remained unconvinced, voicing concerns about the potential risks and challenges inherent in Aditya's ambitious endeavor.

Nevertheless, Aditya's impassioned plea had ignited a spark of curiosity and intrigue among the courtiers, prompting lively debates and discussions about the feasibility and implications of his proposal as reward.

As the court deliberated, the atmosphere crackled with anticipation, with all eyes turned towards Emperor Hemu, awaiting his final verdict on the matter.

After a moment of deliberation, Emperor Hemu spoke, his voice resonating with authority.

"Your proposal is ambitious, my son," he said, his gaze piercing. "But I sense sincerity in your intentions, and I trust in your judgment. I shall grant you permission to establish the Company, under the condition that one fourth percentage share of the profits shall be allocated to the royal treasury.

Considering your business endeavors still serve the empire's interests, and as a reward I shall contribute 1 million gold mohurs to your enterprise, and in exchange for your profit share, you shall be relieved of taxes."

A ripple of excitement swept through the court as Aditya's proposal was met with approval. Prince Aditya bowed deeply before his father with Namaste.

With gratitude, he thanked the emperor, then announced the company's name as Hindu Shakti Company or Hindshakti, eliciting enthusiastic approval from the assembled nobles.

Chandrasekhar's voice cut through the murmurs of the court, drawing all attention to him.

"Hold your joy, Aditya," he cautioned, his tone firm but gentle.

"As the sole prince of the empire, even if you shun authority, you cannot evade your responsibilities. After thorough discussions with the council during your absence, we've decided to entrust you with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs."

Aditya's eyebrows shot up in surprise, his mind racing to process the sudden turn of events. He glanced around at the faces of the courtiers, noting their mixture of curiosity and anticipation.

Chandrasekhar continued with his unwavering gaze. "It's better to grasp the reins of responsibility yourself, especially when it aligns with your vision. Do you dare to accept this challenge?"

Aditya shrugged, accepting the council's decision with a resigned nod. "If the council has made up its mind, then I suppose there's little else to say."

The courtroom buzzed with whispered conversations as the nobles exchanged surprised glances.

Then, with a decisive nod from the emperor, Chandrasekhar added, "For all our esteemed foreign dignitaries present, I request your patience until tomorrow. We have significant propositions to discuss, promising mutual benefits for all parties involved."

As the court absorbed the implications of Chandrasekhar's announcement, the emperor rose from his throne, his regal presence commanding attention.

"Court is adjourned," he declared, his voice echoing through the chamber.

"But let it be known that all nobles are expected to convene again three days hence. It will mark a crucial day for reforms that will shape the future of our empires."

With that, the court dissolved into a flurry of activity, nobles exchanging hushed conversations and speculations as they departed.

The anticipation still hung heavy in the air, each member of the court keenly aware of the significance of the impending reforms.

** Lahore fort in Pakistan region **

In the Lahore fort, Bairam Khan anxiously awaited news. As a guard approached, delivering the message of the Mughal emperor's safe departure from Purana qila, Bairam Khan's anticipation heightened. Taking the note with eagerness, his eyes lit up as he read its contents.

"Prepare the Kafirs ," he instructed Istafa, his tone tinged with determination. "I have received word that the Badshah is en route to Lahore. It's time to give the young badshah a taste of reality."

Istafa nodded dutifully and swiftly made his way to carry out Bairam Khan's orders.

Bairam Khan's gaze shifted to a shadowy figure lurking in the corner. Emerging from the darkness, Abdullah Khan Uzbak stood revealed, patiently waiting for Istafa's departure.

With a knowing look, he spoke softly, "Your foresight was impeccable, Bairam Khan. It's just as you have predicted"

"Your brother won't be accompanying the Badshah," Bairam Khan informed him. "If you seek to earn favor for the Mughal Sultanate, this is an opportunity you cannot afford to miss."

With a decisive nod, Abdullah Khan acknowledged Bairam Khan's words and departed to make the necessary preparations. Alone in his chambers, Bairam Khan cast his gaze skyward, offering silent gratitude.

"Thank you, Aditya," he murmured, a sense of indebtedness coloring his voice.

"Without you, this moment would have been a distant dream. Thanks to you, the sultanate will soon be firmly within my grasp."

HAH! HA! HA! HA! HA! HA!

With that, Bairam Khan burst into a maniacal laughter, his eyes gleaming with anticipation and triumph.

His eyes fell upon a slave woman, her appearance reminiscent of the common folk. In a fit of frustration and unchecked power, Bairam Khan seized her by the throat and hurled her onto his bed.

Ignoring her pleas for mercy, he unleashed his pent-up anger upon the hapless soul with a cruel display of his authority and brutality.

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