NOVEL WEB Chapter 32: Kingdom's Strategy
The Night in the Emperor's Chamber
The royal palace stood silent under the moonlit sky, its marble walls glowing with a soft luminescence. Inside the Emperor's chamber, a meeting of great importance was underway. Emperor Harishchandra sat at the head of a teakwood table, his expression calm but contemplative. Beside him was his son, Harsha, his youthful determination evident in his sharp gaze. Seated with them were Sanjay, the palace steward; Dhruv, and the venerable royal minister; responsible for trade.
The air in the room was charged with purpose as Harsha spoke. "Father, the representatives from neighboring kingdoms and vassal territories have left, satisfied with our agreements. Dhruv and his team's negotiations have paved the way for new trade routes through our empire's territories and into neighboring lands. In the coming months, we'll see a significant increase in gold reserves ."
Dhruv nodded, a glimmer of pride in his eyes. "Indeed, Maharaj. By refining our trade agreements and focusing on goods that demand gold payments, we've secured advantageous terms. This will bolster our treasury."
Harsha continued, "However, Father, I require additional funds for my upcoming ventures. With Sanjay's assistance, I propose establishing a separate reserve to manage my share of profits from these trade expansions. It will streamline operations and allow me to act swiftly when opportunities arise."
The Emperor listened carefully, his brows knitting slightly. "Harsha, while our trade often involves goods, gold inflow remains limited. Your plan is ambitious, but tell me, how do you intend to ensure this separate reserve thrives?"
Harsha's eyes sparkled with confidence. "Father, we will insist on gold payments for our most valuable exports. Additionally, I will create exclusive goods and innovations, ensuring demand remains high. This reserve will not only support my endeavors but also serve as a contingency for our kingdom."
Harishchandra leaned back, his expression softening. "Very well, Harsha. You have my permission. Sanjay, see to it that the arrangements are made."
The steward bowed deeply. "As you command, Maharaj."
Their discussion was interrupted by the sudden arrival of a royal guard, his footsteps echoing in the chamber. Bowing deeply, he addressed the Emperor. "Maharaj, Lord Bhimrao seeks an audience. He says it is urgent."
Harishchandra's face turned grave. "Send him in."
Moments later, Bhimrao entered, his face tense. Bowing low, he greeted, "Long live the Emperor."
"Speak, Bhimrao," the Emperor said. "Why have you come at this late hour? Has something serious occurred?"
Bhimrao nodded. "Yes, Maharaj. Between Ujjaini and Vidisha, Emperor Indra of the Rashtrakuta Empire has deployed troops. He leads them himself."
A heavy silence filled the room. Sanjay and Dhruv exchanged concerned glances, while Harsha leaned forward, his brows furrowing.
"What are his intentions?" Harsha asked.
Bhimrao's tone was grave. "From what my spies report, they aim to claim the territory between Gwalior and Mandsaur. Their strategy seems clear: penetrate the heart of the Suryavanshi Empire and weaken our hold on both regions."
The Emperor's expression darkened. "How many troops does Indra command?"
"Around 10,000 from his territories," Bhimrao replied. "An additional 5,000 provided by Ujjaini and Vidisha nobles bring their numbers to approximately 20,000."
Harsha's gaze remained fixed on his father, understanding the weight of the decision before him. "Father, grant me permission to lead our forces against the Rashtrakuta Empire. I will ensure victory."
Harishchandra shook his head, his voice firm. "No, Harsha. Your place is here. I need you to govern the empire in my stead and prepare for any threats from the west or north. Arab invaders and the Pushyābhūti Kingdom of Thanesar remain potential dangers. We must remain vigilant on all fronts."
The Emperor's decision was swift. "Sanjay, summon our vassal lords and Senapati Mahadev at once."
The Gathering of Nobles
By dawn, the royal court buzzed with activity as the summoned nobles arrived. The grand chamber echoed with their greetings. King Shurasena of Mathura, Raja Vikramaditya of Gwalior, Raja Bhoja of Kannauj, Raja Vishvavarma of Mandsaur, and King Gurhsena of Maitraka stood assembled with their entourages. Senapati Mahadev stood tall beside the Emperor.
"Long live the Emperor!" they chorused.
Harishchandra addressed them gravely. "Lords, I bring grave news but also an opportunity for our empire. The Rashtrakuta Empire has declared war. Harsha, explain the details."
Harsha stepped forward, unrolling a map onto the table. His voice was calm yet commanding as he outlined the enemy's movements and strategy. The nobles listened intently, their expressions ranging from concern to determination.
When Harsha finished, the Emperor rose. "Harsha, you will rule from the palace in my stead for the Suryavanshi Empire. You must remain vigilant against Arab invaders from the west and the Pushyābhūti Kingdom of Thanesar from the north. Shurasena from Mathura, you must also watch Thanesar closely and remain alert for threats from Magadh.
"Raja Bhoja of Kannauj, your focus will be on Magadh. Monitor them sharply for any signs of aggression. Raja Vikramaditya of Gwalior and Raja Vishvavarma of Mandsaur, you will each assemble 5,000 soldiers and begin their training immediately, including cavalry and elephant units. I will join you both with an additional 10,000 soldiers and our finest cavalry and elephants.
"King Gurhsena of Maitraka, fortify your sea borders. Arab invaders are constructing ships and have begun attacking the coasts of Maitraka, Rashtrakuta, Chalukya, and Pandya kingdoms. Protect our traders and coastal villages with vigilance."
Turning to Senapati Mahadev, he said, "Prepare the Rajputana army. This time, we have the advantage of new steel weapons. We will reclaim Ujjaini and Vidisha from the Rashtrakutas and welcome the Mahakal temple into the Suryavanshi Empire.
"To all of you, go to your territories and prepare. Lord Shiva shall bless us in our endeavors. Har Har Mahadev! Jai Mahakal!"
The chamber erupted in a chorus of agreement. The nobles bowed deeply and departed to carry out their orders.
As the nobles departed, Harsha stood beside his father. Harishchandra placed a hand on his shoulder. "This is your moment, my son. While I lead the army, you must safeguard our empire. Rule wisely, for the eyes of both allies and enemies will be upon you."
Harsha nodded, his resolve unwavering. "I will not fail you, Father. May Lord Shiva guide us to victory."
The Emperor's gaze softened. "He will, my son. Together, we will ensure the Suryavanshi Empire endures."
As Harsha watched his father and the nobles prepare for war, he felt the weight of his responsibilities settle on his shoulders. The future of the empire depended on their unity, strategy, and courage—and he was determined to rise to the challenge.
End of Chapter .
To be continued...