Seeking Permission and Setting Up

Vikram Era: 25 Ashvina, 1637 (July 16, 1571), Palace, Prayagraj

Prince Siddharth stood in front of the grand doors of his father's private chamber, his heart pounding with a mix of excitement and nerves. He had spent days preparing his arguments, crafting a detailed plan to present to his father, The King, and the royal treasurer, Minister Arav. Today, he would seek their permission to set up the workshop in the palace.

Siddharth took a deep breath, adjusted his robes, and knocked firmly on the door. A royal guard opened it, bowing respectfully as he allowed the prince inside. The room was filled with the rich scent of sandalwood, and the sunlight streaming through the large windows bathed everything in a warm, golden glow.

His father sat on his ornate throne, reviewing documents with a focused expression. Minister Arav stood beside him, holding a ledger. Both men looked up as Siddharth entered.

"Ah, Siddharth," the king said, his stern face softening into a smile. "Come in, my son. What brings you here so early?"

Siddharth bowed deeply. "Father, I have a request of great importance. May I have a moment of your time?"

His Father nodded, gesturing for Siddharth to approach. "Of course. Speak freely."

Siddharth stepped forward, his voice steady but filled with passion. "Father, during my journey to Bahlikiwara, I acquired several tools and devices that could greatly enhance our kingdom's technology, I seek your permission to set up a small workshop within the palace to develop these advancements."

The king's eyebrows raised in curiosity. "A workshop? What kind of tools and devices are you referring to?"

Siddharth quickly listed the items, explaining their uses and potential benefits. He emphasized how these tools could improve construction, manufacturing, and even everyday life in the kingdom.

Minister Arav listened intently, his eyes narrowing in thought. "These tools sound impressive, Prince Siddharth. But setting up a workshop within the palace will require substantial resources and funding. Have you considered the costs and the impact on our treasury?"

Siddharth nodded, pulling out a scroll from his robe. "Yes, Minister Arav. I have prepared a detailed plan, including the estimated costs and the timeline for setting up the workshop. I believe the long-term benefits will far outweigh the initial investment."

He handed the scroll to Minister Arav, who began to review it carefully. King Bhaskar leaned forward, his interest piqued. "Tell me more about these long-term benefits, Siddharth."

Siddharth took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts. "Father, with these tools, we can improve the quality and speed of our construction projects. We can build stronger structures, enhance our irrigation systems, and even develop new technologies that will make life easier for our people. The workshop will serve as a hub of innovation, where skilled craftsmen and engineers can work together to create a brighter future for our kingdom."

His Father leaned back, his fingers steepled in contemplation. "Your vision is ambitious, Siddharth. But ambition alone is not enough. You must prove that this workshop will bring real, tangible benefits to our kingdom."

Siddharth nodded, his resolve unwavering. "I understand, Father. That is why I have also prepared a list of initial projects we can undertake to demonstrate the workshop's potential. For example, we can start by improving our agricultural tools to increase crop yields, or by creating better water pumps for our villages."

His father nodded in agreement. "Very well. I will grant you permission to set up the workshop, but under one condition: you must provide regular updates on your progress and demonstrate the tangible benefits of each project. If you succeed, the workshop will continue to receive funding. If not, we will reconsider."

Siddharth bowed deeply, a smile spreading across his face. "Thank you, Father. I will not disappoint you. I promise to work diligently and prove the worth of this workshop."

The king nodded, a hint of pride in his eyes. "I believe in your vision, Siddharth. Now, go and begin your work. I look forward to seeing what you will accomplish."

As Siddharth left the chamber, he felt a surge of excitement and determination. With his father's blessing and the resources he needed, he could now bring his vision to life. The workshop would become a beacon of innovation, leading the kingdom into a new era of progress and prosperity.

Siddharth knew the next step was to secure ongoing funding and support. He arranged a meeting with Minister Arav to discuss the financial aspects of the workshop and present his case for continued investment.

The meeting took place in the royal treasury, a grand hall lined with shelves of ledgers and chests of gold. Minister Arav greeted Siddharth warmly, though his expression remained cautious. He was known for his meticulous attention to detail and prudent management of the kingdom's finances.

"Prince Siddharth," Minister Arav began, "I have reviewed your initial proposal and the progress of the workshop. While I am impressed with your vision, we must carefully consider the financial implications of this endeavor."

Siddharth nodded, understanding the treasurer's concerns. "I appreciate your diligence, Minister Arav. I have prepared a detailed budget and a timeline for the workshop's projects, showing how each phase will be funded and the expected returns on investment."

He handed Minister Arav a set of documents, outlining the costs and benefits of the workshop's initiatives. The minister studied the papers intently, his brow furrowing as he analyzed the numbers.

"Your calculations are thorough, Prince Siddharth," Minister Arav said finally. "However, we must ensure that these projects deliver tangible benefits to the kingdom. Can you provide specific examples of how the workshop's advancements will improve our infrastructure and economy?"

Siddharth took a deep breath, ready to present his case. "Minister Arav, one of our first projects will be to improve agricultural tools. By creating more efficient plows and irrigation systems, we can increase crop yields and ensure food security for our people. This will boost our economy and reduce the risk of famine."

He continued, outlining plans for enhancing water pumps to provide clean water to villages, developing better construction tools to build stronger structures, and creating new technologies to improve everyday life.

Minister Arav nodded thoughtfully, his fingers tapping lightly on the table. "These are compelling points, Prince Siddharth. However, I must ask: how will you ensure the sustainability of this workshop? What measures will you take to prevent waste and inefficiency?"

Siddharth smiled, ready for this question. "We will implement strict oversight and regular audits to ensure that resources are used efficiently. I will personally oversee the workshop's operations and work closely with Master Arjun and other experts to maintain high standards. Additionally, we will establish a feedback system, allowing us to continuously improve our processes based on real-world results."

Minister Arav's expression softened slightly. "Your plan is sound, Prince Siddharth. I see you have thought this through carefully. However, the final decision rests with the king. I will support your request and present these findings to him."

Siddharth bowed deeply. "Thank you, Minister Arav. Your support means a great deal to me. I am confident that together, we can achieve great things for our kingdom."

The day of the final decision had arrived. King had summoned Siddharth, Minister Arav, and Master Arjun to the royal council chamber. The air was thick with anticipation as they awaited the king's verdict.

His Father sat at the head of the table, his expression stern but fair. He looked at each of them in turn before speaking. "Siddharth, Minister Arav has presented your proposal and the progress you have made with the workshop. I am impressed with your dedication and the thoroughness of your plans."

Siddharth felt a surge of hope but remained composed. "Thank you, Father. I am committed to proving the value of this workshop and the benefits it can bring to our kingdom."

The king nodded, turning to Minister Arav. "Arav, you have reviewed the financial aspects of this project. What is your assessment?"

Minister Arav cleared his throat. "Your Majesty, I believe Prince Siddharth's proposal is well thought out and has the potential to bring significant benefits. The initial investment is considerable, but the long-term returns could be substantial. With proper oversight and management, I recommend we support this initiative."

His Father leaned back, his eyes resting on Master Arjun. "And you, Master Arjun? Do you believe this workshop can achieve the ambitious goals Siddharth has set forth?"

Master Arjun bowed slightly. "Your Majesty, I have worked closely with Prince Siddharth, and I am confident in his abilities and vision. The tools and technologies we are developing have the potential to transform our kingdom. With continued support, we can achieve great advancements."

The king was silent for a moment, contemplating their words. Finally, he spoke. "Very well. I will grant the workshop the necessary resources and funding. Siddharth, you have my blessing to continue your work. However, I expect regular updates and tangible results. Do not disappoint me."

Siddharth bowed deeply, a broad smile spreading across his face. "Thank you, Father. I will not let you down. I promise to work tirelessly to bring prosperity and innovation to our kingdom."

In afternoon, as Siddharth was adjusting a workbench, his appointed mentor, Master Arjun, entered the workshop. Master Arjun was a seasoned engineer, renowned for his expertise in mechanical devices. His presence was both reassuring and inspiring to Siddharth.

"Prince Siddharth," Master Arjun greeted, his voice warm and filled with respect. "I see the workshop is coming together beautifully."

Siddharth smiled, wiping sweat from his brow. "Thank you, Master Arjun. I couldn't have done it without your guidance. These tools are incredible, but I still have much to learn."

Master Arjun nodded, his eyes twinkling with wisdom. "Learning is a lifelong journey, my prince. But with dedication and hard work, you will master these tools and unlock their full potential."

As they continued setting up the workshop, Siddharth shared his plans for the initial projects. Master Arjun listened carefully, offering valuable insights and suggestions. They discussed ways to improve agricultural tools, enhance water pumps, and how to even create new devices to make everyday tasks easier for the people of the kingdom.

"Prince Siddharth," Master Arjun said thoughtfully, "these projects are excellent starting points. But remember, innovation often comes from unexpected places. Encourage your craftsmen and engineers to experiment and think outside the box. Some of the greatest discoveries come from taking risks and exploring new ideas."

Siddharth nodded, absorbing his mentor's advice. "I will, Master Arjun. I want this workshop to be a place where creativity and innovation thrive."

Days turned into weeks as the workshop neared completion. Siddharth and his team worked tirelessly, driven by their shared vision of a brighter future. The sound of hammers, saws, and the hum of machinery filled the air, creating a symphony of progress.

as the sun set over the palace, Siddharth stood in the courtyard, admiring the newly established workshop. He felt a deep sense of accomplishment and gratitude. The journey had only just begun, but he knew that with perseverance and hard work, they could achieve great things.