Chapter 35

The commotion in the training ground settled as Karthikeya raised his hand, signaling for silence. His voice, amplified by the surrounding walls, carried across the vast expanse, reaching every corner of the gathering.

 Karthikeya stood tall before his kingdom, his presence commanding attention. His voice, amplified by the surrounding walls, carried across the vast expanse, reaching every corner of the gathering.

"My fellow citizens," he began, his tone resonating with authority and purpose, "I stand before you today to announce a groundbreaking decree that shall reshape the very destiny of our kingdom!"

A hush fell over the crowd as they hung on Karthikeya's every word. Every eye was fixed on the charismatic young king, eager to decipher the secrets held within his proclamation.

"In a kingdom that cherishes knowledge and enlightenment," Karthikeya continued, his gaze sweeping across the sea of expectant faces, "education must be an inherent right, not a privilege reserved for the fortunate few."

A murmur of excitement rustled through the crowd as his words sank in. The concept of universal education, once a distant dream, now seemed within grasp.

"Therefore," Karthikeya declared, his voice echoing with unwavering resolve, "I hereby decree that every child within the kingdom, from the noblest prince to the humblest peasant, shall have the right to attend our esteemed Gurukuls and receive a comprehensive education, empowering them to shape their own destinies!"

A collective gasp swept through the gathering, followed by a thunderous applause that shook the very foundations of the training ground. The crowd erupted in jubilant cheers, their voices blending into a chorus of exhilaration. The seeds of a brighter future had been sown, and the kingdom rejoiced.

With the crowd still buzzing with excitement, Karthikeya shifted his focus to the kingdom's security. He introduced the newly established police force, emphasizing their unwavering commitment to upholding justice and protecting the citizens.

"These brave men ," Karthikeya declared, his voice resonating with conviction, "stand as guardians of our peace, ensuring that justice prevails throughout our lands. Regardless of your station or status, you can approach them with your grievances, and they shall serve you with impartiality and integrity."

The crowd nodded in approval, their confidence in their king growing stronger. The notion of equal justice, where the law applied to all without favor, sparked a renewed sense of hope for a kingdom governed by fairness and equity.

Turning his attention back to education, Karthikeya outlined the simplified enrollment process for Gurukuls. He designated the police offices as registration centers, making the process accessible and convenient for all.

"Let us seize this opportunity," Karthikeya urged, his voice filled with passion, "to invest in the future of our kingdom. Enroll your children in our Gurukuls, and let the seeds of knowledge blossom within their minds. Let them become the architects of a brighter tomorrow."

The crowd responded with enthusiasm, their eagerness to embrace this new era of enlightenment evident. As Karthikeya dismissed them, their hearts soared with hope, knowing that under his leadership, their kingdom was destined for greatness.

Karthikeya didn't stay anymore as he left the various nobles behind as he took Bairavendra and Ramu with him to leave the podium. He entered his carrage and without any delay left to the palace.

Upon arriving at the palace, Karthikeya was informed by his servants that Achuthanandan awaited him in the study. Acknowledging the servant's message, Karthikeya proceeded towards the study, accompanied by Bairavendra and Ramu.

Within the study, Achuthanandan greeted Karthikeya, holding a bundle of scrolls. Karthikeya straightened in his seat and nodded in response to Achuthanandan's greeting.

Achuthanandan stepped forward and presented the scrolls, which contained comprehensive details of the education system, including the locations of Gurukuls, existing Gurukuls, and other pertinent information.

"Your Highness," Achuthanandan declared confidently, "all the information you requested is here. Additionally, the palace renovation is nearly complete and will be operational by tomorrow."

"Excellent," Karthikeya replied. "You may proceed with the registration and enrollment process, which should have already commenced. If any modifications are necessary, you will be notified accordingly. Furthermore, report the exact number of enrolled students within three days and have Rana prepare comprehensive records of everything."

Achuthanandan bowed and acknowledged Karthikeya's instructions. "Yes, Your Highness Karthikeya. I will ensure it is done." With that, he exited the study.

Karthikeya turned his attention to Bairavendra, retrieving a scroll from beneath a small table. "Take this and lead the army," he commanded, his voice carrying the weight of his authority. "I don't expect survivors, but I demand success."

The scroll contained detailed information about the rebels' hideouts, their numbers, patrolling routes, lookouts, equipment, and leaders.

Bairavendra's eyes widened in astonishment as he glanced at the scroll. He couldn't fathom how Karthikeya had acquired such comprehensive intelligence about the enemy, a feat that even the empire's secret soldiers had failed to achieve.

"I will not betray your trust, Your Highness Karthikeya," Bairavendra pledged with renewed determination. "I shall demonstrate the might of my army to these rebels."

Karthikeya nodded in approval, satisfied with Bairavendra's unwavering loyalty. "Excellent. Time is of the essence. I want the kingdom stabilized within a week."

As Bairavendra departed, Karthikeya produced another scroll, not from the table but from his system. It was the land reclamation plan he had requested from the system, a detailed blueprint for restoring the kingdom's ravaged lands.

"Ramu," he instructed, addressing his trusted advisor, "summon Vikarama and Lakshmi and have them deliver their project reports for the reconstruction of the two port cities."

Ramu hesitated, unsure if the reports were ready. "Your Highness Karthikeya, I believe they are still in the process of preparing the reports."

"In that case," Karthikeya continued, undeterred, "provide them with copies of the land reclamation plan. They shall receive all the necessary resources within two days. I expect them to commence work within a week."

His voice hardened as he emphasized, "And remind them that corruption will not be tolerated. Every resource allocated is for the benefit of the people. If I discover any misappropriation, I will ensure they face the consequences of their actions."

Ramu nodded in understanding, acknowledging Karthikeya's stern warning.

"Arrange for the construction of three large granaries," Karthikeya instructed further. "I shall deposit the grains and other resources required for the land reclamation plan today. Assign two trusted guards to each granary to ensure their security."

With his final instructions imparted, Karthikeya dismissed Ramu, his mind already formulating the next steps to restore his kingdom to its former glory.