Chapter 198: Second official reforms part-2 (Company rights)
Purana Qila, Council chamber, afternoon of 11th April 1557.
The grand council chamber buzzed with murmurs of anticipation as courtiers, nobles, and merchants gathered. Sunlight filtered through ornate windows, casting golden hues on the polished floors. At the far end, on a raised platform housed the golden throne where the Samrat Hemu sat conducting his court.
As the herald announced the finance minister name, Sayantika Sen stepped forward with the draft in hand, the sound of her soft footsteps echoing in the hall. She moved gracefully towards the center stage, bowing respectfully to Samrat Hem Chandra Bhargav, before addressing the assembly.
"For the glory of Samrajya," Sayantika began with clear and steady voice, "I present here the bill concerning company rights."
All eyes turned toward her as the weight of the moment settled over the room.
"Thanks to Imperial Prince Aditya," her words drawing respectful glances towards Aditya, who stood composed at the corner. She continued, "the council has observed that private mercenary armies, under the prince’s organized efforts, have proven their value both in military service and as protective escorts. Every action has been carefully documented, and we have seen firsthand the success of these ventures."
A few murmurs of approval stirred among the crowd.
"The profit generated by this organized sector," Sayantika announced, raising her parchment for emphasis, "has exceeded our expectations, amounting to three times the total land revenue collected across the Delhi capital alone. Trade and economy have flourished, not just within member kingdoms, but also with allied foreign realms."
Gasps of astonishment spread through the hall. Many nodded in agreement, recognizing the unprecedented growth.
"However," she pressed on, "such success has brought a new challenge to light. The scale has grown so large that the council feels it must be regulated to ensure order and sustainability."
Sayantika took a breath, letting the gravity of her statement settle in. The crowd’s curiosity deepened.
"This council proposes," she declared, "that with the burden of royal duties on Prince Aditya, it would be difficult for him to meet the empire’s growing needs alone. Thus, we suggest redistributing the rights to register more companies under trusted individuals, who will take on mercenary services and aid in fulfilling the empire’s demands."
