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Osman stood in the grand divan hall of Topkapı Palace, surrounded by his viziers, commanders, and prominent scholars of the state. The high ceilings adorned with intricate carvings and the sunlight streaming through the large windows illuminated the hall's splendor. Richly embroidered carpets and historical paintings adorned the walls, while the Ottoman emblem hung proudly like a beacon of sovereignty. The air was charged with anticipation as everyone focused intently on the young Sultan, who exuded a sense of determination and authority.
Osman stepped forward to the podium, his gaze sweeping across the room. His voice carried the commanding presence of a leader destined to reshape the empire:
"Honorable statesmen, esteemed commanders, and wise scholars… Today, we gather here to announce decisions that will redefine the future of the Ottoman Empire. Change is inevitable, and we shall be at the forefront of it."
He placed his hands firmly on the podium, his expression unwavering as he continued:
"From this day forward, we will implement a fundamental change in the way we recruit soldiers into the Ottoman army. No longer will we rely solely on the devshirme system. Instead, we are introducing an application-based system. Every Ottoman citizen, regardless of their faith, will have the right to serve in the military. This reform will not only foster equality among our people but also strengthen our army. Additionally, with this change, the extra tax levied on our non-Muslim citizens—the cizye—will be abolished. From now on, all citizens will share equally in the defense of our lands."
For a moment, silence filled the hall, followed by murmurs. Some viziers exchanged approving glances, while others furrowed their brows in contemplation. Osman anticipated this reaction and resumed speaking with a calm yet resolute tone:
"Let me clarify: we are not entirely abolishing the devshirme system. Instead, we are transforming it to better serve the needs of our state. From now on, the devshirme system will focus on training civil servants and administrators rather than soldiers. The most talented students from schools established in the provinces will be selected, regardless of their religion, and brought to the capital for further education. These young minds will be nurtured in the spirit of Ottoman culture and will take their place in the administrative framework of our empire."
A ripple of interest spread through the audience. Many saw the potential in these reforms, while others remained cautious about their implications. Osman, undeterred, pressed on:
"Our reforms extend beyond the military and into education and justice. Currently, under the millet system, each community is judged according to its own religious laws. While this has fostered a sense of freedom, it has also led to unequal treatment among our citizens. To address this, we aim to unify the Ottoman legal system under one comprehensive framework that ensures fairness for all. This new system will draw upon principles from Islam as well as other religious laws to create a balanced and inclusive legal structure."
Osman paused briefly, allowing the weight of his words to settle before continuing:
"We are also establishing a new legal department within the Enderun school. Here, future judges will be trained, not only based on their education but also on their standing and reputation within their communities. Initially, experienced and respected individuals will be appointed as judges, while younger graduates will serve as their assistants. Over time, however, all judges will be exclusively trained at the Enderun. This transitional system will ensure a smooth implementation of our reforms."
As Osman delivered these statements, the hall grew increasingly focused. Some viziers and commanders discussed the visionary nature of the reforms with admiration, while others quietly debated their feasibility.
Osman's voice rose with conviction as he concluded:
"These reforms are not merely decisions; they are the foundation of a new era for the Ottoman Empire. Without strengthening education and justice, no state can achieve greatness. We are not only addressing the challenges of today but also laying the groundwork for a brighter future. These reforms will be our legacy, the cornerstone of our empire's enduring strength."
Osman's words echoed through the divan. The atmosphere in the hall was charged with a mixture of hope and determination. It was clear to all present that these reforms were more than administrative changes—they marked the beginning of a new chapter in the Ottoman Empire's illustrious history.