Empire Ascension: The Rise of the Fated One

Inside the prince’s chamber, Aditya was taken aback by the mention of Nalanda, a university destroyed centuries ago. The mere mention of it piqued his curiosity.

"Scholars? Talking about Nalanda? Are you certain?" Aditya asked with curiosity. "Where are they?"

Hari Singh, his butler, responded calmly, addressing each of Aditya’s questions in turn. "Your Highness, judging by their attire, they appear to be Brahmin monks. I was about to send them away, but they insisted on meeting with you specifically regarding Nalanda. They are currently waiting at the entrance of the Grand Hall. Should I summon them in?"

Aditya shook his head. "No, I need to check out myself. If they are real scholars then it will be easier to rope in and if they are thugs I will handle it myself."

Hari Singh, cautiously added , "But Your Highness, there are still other visitors outside, many with strong backing, who claim to have important diplomatic concerns and are seeking your audience. They weren’t scheduled, but they might cause a commotion if kept unanswered.’"

Aditya sighed in frustration. "Hah! Who holds meetings at the dusk? Vinayak, send word that I’m occupied for the next week. They can come again, only if they have appointment regardless of urgency."

Rising swiftly from his seat, he turned to his butler. "Hari Singh, lead the way."

Hari Singh led Aditya through the Grand Hall, paying no mind to the disgruntled visitors who had hoped for an audience with the prince. These individuals, eager for a moment of his time, were left watching as Aditya made his way straight to the entrance, where a group of monks in saffron robes stood waiting patiently. They had large pouches hung on their shoulders ,probably containing goods as a traveller.

A wealthy merchant, unable to contain his scorn, whispered to a companion, "It seems the prince is so disgusted by these beggars that he couldn’t help but deal with them personally."

Another one, chuckling, added, "Serves them right. How shameless must they be to beg within the palace walls? I can’t believe the soldiers even let them in."