Emperor Hemu's face turned grave as he regarded Aditya. "Clarify your thoughts, Aditya," he implored, his voice weighted with the gravity of the situation. "Tell us what's on your mind."
Aditya met the Emperor's gaze unwaveringly. "It is plausible," he began, "that Shadi Khan harbored resentment, but the circumstances of the attacks raise suspicions. Abdul Hameed's entire army was decimated, while Istehar Khan's assailant was merely a harem member. Furthermore, the sudden influx of Muslim traders, coupled with the disappearance of reports from Kashmir, suggests a more intricate plot."
Sukhwindar Singh interjected, his confusion evident. "But, Your Highness, didn't you sign a peace treaty with Pakistan? Why would they engage in such actions?"
Aditya's lips curved into a knowing smile as he pondered Sukhwindar's question. 'Naive indeed,' he thought to himself. As someone well-versed in the intricacies of modern geopolitics, he understood the deceptive tactics employed by nations, especially through proxies.
Turning to Sukhwindar, Aditya's expression became solemn. "Your Grace," he began, "While we may have a treaty to prevent outright war, it doesn't prevent clandestine actions by unofficial factions. Additionally, we don't have any diplomatic alliance to know what's going on there" As his words sank in, a sense of gravity settled over the room, each member realized the implications of Aditya's revelation.
He continued, "Furthermore, personally, I believe Shadi Khan is being framed. He has no motive to take such drastic measures when circumstances already favor him. On the contrary, it is we who stand to lose if we persecute him based on Istehar Khan's vague report."
Prime Minister Chandrashekhar interjected, "Prince, are you implying a conspiracy by Istehar Khan? Do you have evidence?"
Aditya bowed respectfully before responding, "I apologize, Your Grace, but let us not overlook the fact that Istehar Khan's evidence is ambiguous and susceptible to manipulation. This accusation could serve his interests while posing minimal risk to him."
A hushed silence fell over the chamber as Emperor Hemu weighed Aditya's words. Finally, he spoke, "It appears you have a plan, Aditya."
Aditya nodded solemnly. "Yes, Your Majesty," he affirmed. "At this very moment, it's entirely plausible that Istehar Khan is spreading rumors through his channels, painting a false picture of mistreatment of Muslims. We must counter this narrative by promoting Shadi Khan, who has proven himself to be more loyal and progressive than Istehar Khan, who has already sown seeds of discord within the Grand Chamber of Assembly."
Sukhwindar Singh raised an objection, but Aditya maintained his composure. "Your Grace," he replied calmly, "I'm not suggesting we release Shadi Khan. Rather, I propose we restrict access to the Kingdom of Agra until this matter is resolved, ensuring Shadi Khan remains within Imperial jurisdiction."
Sukhwindar Singh persisted in his protest, but Emperor Hemu silenced him with a gesture, granting Aditya permission to continue.
Aditya's words hung heavy in the air as he proposed a solution. "What we need now is a scapegoat to handle this situation," he stated, his voice firm. "Even without concrete proof, we can claim to have uncovered links between foreigners colluding with regional powers to incite uprisings. This could shift the focus away from Hindu-Muslim conflicts and unite us under a common cause of security, giving us time to uncover the real culprit."
Emperor Hemu nodded in agreement. "It seems you have more to add," he remarked.
"Concerning potential foreign threats," Aditya addressed the council, his voice resonating with authority and foresight, "we must take proactive measures. I propose deploying central forces to Punjab and Kashmir, showcasing our unwavering commitment to security. Furthermore, imposing a temporary ban on the movement of large groups of travellers or merchants across our borders for one month would serve as a strategic deterrent."
His eyes scanning the attentive faces of the council members, Aditya continued, "In addition, we must dispatch urgent pigeon posts to our border states, urging them to bolster their defenses, especially in Kashmir. Moreover, the construction of more watchtowers along our borders will enhance our vigilance and early warning capabilities."
Emperor Hemu nodded in agreement. "Very well," he replied. "Prime Minister, ensure this matter is handled promptly."
The Prime Minister nodded in acknowledgment, prompting Emperor Hemu to continue, "Futhermore," the Emperor added, "we must recognize our shortcomings in intelligence capabilities. How do we propose to rectify this?"
Jaydev Patil responded, "Given the recent formation of the empire, we require time to train and deploy spies."
Aditya interjected, "Why rely solely on spies when we can gather valuable information directly from our citizens?"
The room fell silent as the council members considered Aditya's suggestion. Emperor Hemu's expression softened as he recognized the merit in Aditya's proposal. "An unconventional approach," he remarked, "but one worth exploring. tell me more of your ideas on this Aditya"
Aditya laid out his plan briefly, addressing the council with clarity:
"Firstly, we should deploy government-employed bards (those who sing for money) to deliver timely news and gather reports and rumors from every village square. These reports will be collected from each villages to their respective paraganas (districts) and then relayed to the main branch of intelligence department office in each state which will be collectively send to capital. Villagers with verified news can be rewarded, allowing us to collect and regulate the spread of information effectively.
Secondly, we need to modernize our postal service. While we currently utilize the postal infrastructure of the former emperor Sher shah suri, it's crucial to implement modernization measures to enhance regulation and surveillance of the messages circulated within our borders.
Lastly, we must prioritize literacy in our official language of Devnagri. By ensuring that all working citizens can atleast read and write, we not only improve their skills but also enable them to access written news or future edicts. This widespread literacy will foster a sense of national unity and empower our local communities. We must allocate budgetary resources for mandatory education, ensuring that all working citizens and children receive at least basic literacy skills, despite of any caste or religion."
As Aditya outlined his proposals, the council members listened intently, recognizing the potential of his ideas to revolutionize the empire's intelligence-gathering capabilities and strengthen its societal cohesion.
Amidst the council's deliberations, Sayantika Sen raised a valid concern, her voice carrying a tone of practicality. "This initiative may impose a significant burden on the empire," she pointed out, her brows furrowed with apprehension.
Emperor Hemu, ever attentive to the concerns of his advisors, acknowledged Sayantika's apprehension with a nod of understanding. "Your concerns are noted, Sayantika," he responded, his tone measured yet reassuring. "However, the potential benefits of these endeavors cannot be ignored."
Sayantika, unmoved by the Emperor's reassurances, persisted, her conviction unwavering. "But Your Majesty, the strain on our resources could be considerable also the brahmins wont allow to teach Sanskrit to lowers castes ," she insisted, her voice tinged with urgency.
The Emperor, though sympathetic to Sayantika's concerns, remained resolute in his decision. "The empire will bear this necessary burden and if Sanskrit is the issue then convince them to do so in Devanagari," he declared firmly.
Turning to Aditya, the Emperor extended an invitation for involvement. "Aditya, as the progenitor of this idea, would you be willing to oversee this endeavour?" he inquired, his tone inviting.
Aditya, appreciative of the opportunity but mindful of his current commitments, respectfully declined.
"I regret to inform Your Majesty, emperor that I must decline," he began respectfully. "I am currently overseeing road construction projects, and there are pending construction plans that require my immediate attention. Additionally, within the next three to four months, I am scheduled to embark on mercenary work in the southern regions, leaving me with little time to spare."
Upon hearing Aditya's response, Jaydev Patil stepped forward with a reassuring nod. "Your Majesty, as the intelligence department head, I offer my services to oversee this initiative and would also like to take care of primary education part," he declared confidently. "I assure you, I will handle it with the utmost diligence, ensuring there are no mistakes on our part this time."
Aditya, recognizing the importance of the endeavour, pledged his support to Jaydev. "I may not lead, but I am more than willing to assist in laying the foundations," he affirmed, his tone reflecting his unwavering commitment.
Emperor Hemu, satisfied with their responses, nodded approvingly. "Very well," he acknowledged, his voice carrying a note of encouragement. "I trust that you both will handle this matter with the diligence it deserves."
With their roles defined and their determination clear, the council members resumed their discussions.
After few moments, Aditya saw an opportune moment to make a request of Emperor Hemu. With a respectful nod towards the Emperor, Aditya spoke, his voice carrying a tone of earnestness and concern.
"Your Majesty," Aditya began, "I understand the gravity of the situation regarding the custody of Amira, daughter of our former Defense Minister. With Raamya assuming her new role as Defense Chief, her duties will undoubtedly demand her full attention. I propose that, for the time being, I would like to take full responsibility for Amira's care and well-being."
As Aditya presented his proposal, Sukhwindar Singh voiced his objection, raising concerns about granting such privileges to the daughter of a subject, of the empire. However, Prime Minister Chandrashekhar stepped forward in support of his grandson's request, emphasizing the importance of alleviating Raamya's burden and providing solace to Princess Amira in these troubled times.
Emperor Hemu, his expression thoughtful, listened to the arguments presented before him. After a moment of consideration, a faint smile touched his lips as he responded, "Very well, Aditya. You may take custody of Amira for the time being. However," he added, his tone firm, "By nightfall, she must return to her designated room and remember my earlier caution."
Aditya, acknowledging the Emperor's conditions with a respectful bow, expressed his gratitude and assurance. With the Emperor's consent granted, the council meeting drew to a close, leaving Aditya to take on the newfound responsibility entrusted to him.
*****
After exiting the king's chamber, Aditya hurried to Amira's room in the late hours of the night, his heart pounding with concern. Upon arrival, he frantically searched the room, but there was no sign of her. Fearing the worst, he hastened to Raamya's quarters, where he was met by a contingent of guards stationed at the entrance.
Undeterred, he pushed past them and entered the room, where he found Amira nestled in Raamya's comforting embrace, tears streaming down her cheeks.
"Amira," Aditya called out softly, his voice filled with empathy and reassurance.
Startled, Amira looked up, her tear-filled eyes meeting his with a mixture of relief and anguish. Without a word, she rushed into his embrace, her sobs muffled against his chest.
Her voice trembled with emotion as she whispered, "Aditya, my abbu is innocent. He would never betray the empire. They're saying he's a traitor." Her words were choked with sorrow and disbelief, her heart heavy with the weight of the accusations against her beloved father.
With tender care, Aditya enveloped Amira in his arms, holding her close as she wept. "I know your father is innocent," he declared, his voice a steady anchor in the storm of her emotions. Gently wiping away her tears, he cupped her cheeks, his gaze unwavering with determination. "Look at me," he urged softly. "I promise to clear his name and bring him back to you. You trust me, don't you?" His words rang with conviction and promise, offering Amira a glimmer of hope in the darkness.
Amira nodded fervently, her trust in Aditya evident in the way she clung to him. Aditya returned her embrace, holding her close in a silent pledge of support and determination. As they stood together, united in their resolve, Raamya approached with a gentle expression of sympathy.
Without hesitation, she joined their embrace, enveloping them both in a comforting hug. In that moment, amidst the turmoil and uncertainty, they found solace in each other's presence, drawing strength from their shared bond of loyalty and compassion.
With Amira and Raamya by his side, Aditya's resolve solidified into an unbreakable determination. As he held them close, a steely resolve ignited within him, driving him to uncover the truth behind the accusations and bring justice to those responsible, no matter the cost.