Chapter 36

Shortly after Ramu's departure, Karthikeya spotted a fresh wolf seal scroll inside his secret draw, signaling an urgent matter. As he unfurled the scroll and deciphered its contents, his face clouded with concern.

The scroll revealed crucial details that Achuthanandan, Marthanda, and the others had overlooked - the pervasive caste system of this kingdom. Unlike the mainland, this land's caste system was deeply entrenched, and the report indicated that several caste community leaders had shown some resistance and some had even begun spreading rumors against Karthikeya's education system, citing caste as their justification.

While the caste system inherently discriminated against lower caste individuals, the situation was further complicated by the existence of hierarchies within the lower castes themselves, with each group discriminating against those they perceived as inferior. A perfect example would be that while the Ezhava community welcomed the opportunity to study alongside other higher castes, they were disheartened by the prospect of sharing classrooms with those from lower caste groups that they considered as inferior to them.

Karthikeya was well aware that the current situation might seem like a minor inconvenience, but if left unaddressed, it could escalate into an insurmountable obstacle. The people's resilience and focus on survival had temporarily diminished their adherence to caste and religious divisions, making them easily receptive to his every decree.

However, once their hardships subsided, they would inevitably revert to their traditional customs. Karthikeya understood that he had a narrow window of opportunity to implement a new social order and establish laws before the old ways resurfaced.

The prevailing cultural norms were deeply intertwined with religion, making social status and caste exceptionally significant and hard to fight against. Karthikeya found himself in a predicament, torn between upholding tradition and implementing a more equitable system by force.

After careful consideration, he devised a cunning plan, not driven by righteousness but by effectiveness. He decided to assume the mantle of a supreme being that stood above the existing caste system.

Karthikeya resolved to portray himself as a divine avatar or messenger or Godman, a tactic often employed by fraudulent men or women in the modern era to exploit the masses. However, his intentions were far from malicious. He sought to manipulate the people's beliefs, not to deceive them, but to guide them towards a brighter future.

His strategy was remarkably straightforward. The system had already earmarked the initial resources for the land reclamation project, which were stored within the system's backpack. Karthikeya planned to discreetly transport these resources to the granaries that Ramu would be preparing. However, he decided to execute this plan publicly.

From an outsider's perspective, Karthikeya's actions would appear as if he had conjured the resources out of thin air, cementing his reputation as a divine being or a messenger of the gods or Godman.

Karthikeya's plan was audacious and in way against mortality, yet he was confident in its effectiveness. By assuming the role of a divine being, he could transcend the limitations of the current social system and establish himself as an unquestionable authority. The people's reverence for his perceived powers would enable him to implement his reforms without interference or questions.

Even if question, he can make use of the fundamental scriptures and principles of the sages themselves to gain upper hand in any discussion.

With a newfound determination, Karthikeya rose from his seat and headed towards his chambers. He needed to shed his opulent attire, which would be seen as insensitive amidst the kingdom's dire straits if he had leave to visit the grainaries.

After a couple of hours, a knock on his chamber door interrupted his action of reading the scrolls. He placed the scrolls Achuthanandan had submitted on the table and instructed, "Enter."

Ramu cautiously entered Karthikeya's chambers and offered a respectful bow. "Your Highness," he addressed Karthikeya, "I trust all is well?"

Karthikeya acknowledged Ramu's greeting and inquired, "Is there anything I can assist you with, Ramu?"

Ramu hesitated for a moment before responding, "Your Highness, I have come to inform you that the granaries have been prepared as instructed. However, I must humbly request your forgiveness if I have erred in my interpretation of your orders."

Ramu continued, "Your Highness, nearly all able-bodied individuals above the age of fifteen have registered as per your directive, forming a substantial workforce ready to reclaim the land. The remaining elderly or disabled individuals continue to rely on the kingdom's relief rations."

Karthikeya nodded in understanding. "This is precisely what we anticipated, Ramu. But what concerns you so deeply?"

Ramu proceeded to express his apprehension. "Your Highness Karthikeya, it is true the plan you outlined is meticulously crafted and flawless. It clearly defines the work standards we must uphold and the benefits to be provided to the workers. However, I am perplexed as to how Your Highness intends to procure the resources necessary to fulfill these promises to the people."

Ramu elaborated, "No caravans or ships have entered the kingdom, and our kingdom itself lacks the resources or capabilities to provide such substantial benefits to the workers at this time."

Karthikeya listened attentively to Ramu's concerns. He understood the gravity of the situation and the potential for unrest if the workers' expectations were not met. A plan was forming in his mind, one that would not only address Ramu's concerns but also further solidify his position as a divine authority.

Ramu's concerns were valid, and Karthikeya appreciated his honesty. He assured Ramu, "Fear not, Ramu. If the granaries are in order. Let us proceed, and I shall demonstrate the source of these resources, easing your worries once and for all."

With a playful smile, Karthikeya dismissed the perplexed Ramu and exited his chambers. He made his way towards the palace entrance, accompanied by Ramu, four palace guards, and a handful of additional trusted individuals.

As they traversed the streets, the people greeted Karthikeya with reverence and curiosity, devoid of hostility or fear. Their eyes followed his every move, eager to witness the next chapter of their kingdom's transformation.

The people who had already registered for the work knew the benefits the kingdom promised and while still steptic they were very much looking forward to it.

Guided by Ramu, Karthikeya arrived at the designated location. The granaries stood as imposing stone structures adjacent to the now-empty animal market, a strategic choice by Ramu to facilitate the easy transportation and protection of goods.

Dismounting from his horse, Karthikeya stepped into the expansive stone structure. The interior was surprisingly clean and orderly, devoid of any apparent issues. As he surveyed the surroundings, the curious onlookers who had gathered nearby cautiously pressed closer, eager to witness the spectacle that was about to unfold.

Karthikeya had instructed the guards to refrain from interfering with the crowd, allowing them to observe his actions firsthand. Emboldened by the lack of resistance, the onlookers ventured further into the granary, their eyes wide with anticipation as they glanced at Karthikeya and his subordinates.