Chapter 4

Karthikeya and his team, opting not to wait for Bairavendra, proceeded directly to Karthikeya's recently constructed residence, thus saving valuable time. As the newly appointed Mandala Pathi of the land, he could have assumed control of the previous royal family palace. However, the risk of the rebels becoming acquainted with the internal structure and hidden paths posed a significant concern. Consequently, Bairavendra arranged for an alternate residence.

Karthikeya instructed one of the guards, who exuded an air of authority and had previously commanded another guard, to inform Bairavendra of thier arrival, to lead the way for him and his subordinates.

As they journeyed through the heart of the city, Karthikeya found himself captivated by the diverse architectural styles, which displayed a noticeable influence from Northern designs rather than those of the Chola and Pandya in the South. Navigating through the ancient city, rich in heritage spanning over a century, Karthikeya felt a strong inclination to delve deeper into its history.

However, his attention was swiftly diverted to the people of the city. Eavesdropping on their conversations as they passed, Karthikeya discerned a blend of curiosity and fear reflected in their eyes.

"Is this the new lord?"

"I don't know, but it appears so, judging by how the Chola soldiers salute the carriage."

"Really!"

"Do you think the rumors are true?"

"I doubt it, the Chola soldiers haven't acted in accordance with the rumors. It's all fabricated."

"I heard the Cholas are cruel."

"Yeah, me too."

"I don't think so."

"Do you think we'll be alright?"

"Whatever, whoever rules, what does that have to do with us? They're all the same to us."

"Hush! Keep quiet, someone will hear you."

"Hey, look, isn't that the lord?"

"I heard he is a prince from the Chola royal family."

"He looks young."

"I just hope we can survive this disaster. It's been two days since my son had a full meal. Maybe the prince would..."

Absorbing the atmosphere, Karthikeya observed the city's diverse population, ranging from monks clad in monastic garb to those wearing threadbare clothes, alongside a small number of individuals adorned in luxurious silk attire. Assessing the situation, he perceived that the majority of the populace lived in impoverished conditions, struggling to make ends meet.

While the royal family had undoubtedly prioritized the city's irrigation, drainage, and infrastructure, the overall well-being of the people appeared to have been neglected. However, he wasn't certain whether this was a consequence of the recent disaster that had led to an influx of refugees crowding the city.

In contrast, the Chola dynasty had a history of uplifting the people, having established numerous hospitals in major towns for both humans and animals and many other public services. Throughout his journey through the city, Karthikeya did not come across a single public hospital. It was evident that the majority of the residents were farmers, relying on farming, small-scale animal husbandry, fishing, and trade for their sustenance.

Initially, his father had proposed relocating the capital city, but after witnessing the splendors of the city of Anuradhapuram, Karthikeya had a change of heart, considering such a move to be a squandering of time, money, and resources.

Despite the Chola's abundant wealth, all the princes possessed sufficient wealth. Karthikeya, in particular, was the richest among his brothers, thanks to the success of his soap and perfume industries renowned across the mainland and overseas. His wealth was derived not only from trade but also from the Royal treasury and the original reserves of the previous Kingdom of Anuradhapuram.

Driving through the city's roads, they arrived at a spacious manor built in the Dravidian architectural style. Recently constructed, this edifice would serve as both Karthikeya's residence and the future seat of governance for a significant period ahead.

Having been informed by the soldier beforehand that his subordinates had their designated lodgings, Karthikeya opted to have everyone rest for the day, considering the lateness of the hour and the imminent nightfall. Upon their arrival, Karthikeya noticed the maids and servants gathered at the entrance, prepared to offer their greetings.

As Karthikeya disembarked from the carriage, the maids and servants greeted him in unison, "We greet Your Highness, Karthikeya Chola," bowing respectfully and curtsying.

"At ease," Karthikeya responded.

As the servants rose, Karthikeya's subordinates had already gathered around him. "These are my subordinates, retainers, and staff. Please arrange accommodations and meals for them and my soldiers. They have been on a long journey and require proper rest," Karthikeya stated, offering a kind smile.

"Of course, Your Highness," the chief servant replied with a curtsy, before turning to issue instructions to those behind him, gesturing towards the northern section of the manor.

"Your Highness, this servent is Shaji, the head servant. This is Sura; he will guide the soldiers to their quarters near the barracks, a short distance from this residence. As for the other lords, General Bairavendra has arranged separate residences for them," Shaji explained.

"Go on, do what you have to, Shaji," Karthikeya instructed.

Karthikeya turned to his subordinates, instructing, "It's already late, rest for the day; there will be a meeting tomorrow in the morning, and I expect everyone to be present in the meeting hall."

Karthikeya gestured to Shaji, saying, "Please."

While the others, including Marthanda, were guided to their residence by a servant, Karthikeya was led inside the mansion by Shaji himself. During the tour, Shaji introduced the layout of the manor to Karthikeya and his personal attendants, detailing each corridor and its destinations.

"This way, Your Highness. This is your chamber. The maids will bring your attire, and if you require a bath, I will ensure that hot water is brought to you," Shaji offered respectfully.

"Please do, and Thulasi, familiarize yourself with the premises and learn from Shaji about the specifics as soon as possible. You will take charge of the maids," Karthikeya instructed, glancing at his personal maid, Thulasi.

"Ramu, from this moment, you will hand over all your duties as the head servant to Shaji," Karthikeya instructed, surprising Ramu.

"Your Highness!" Ramu was about to ask what mistake he had committed, but Karthikeya interjected.

"Ramu, you are no longer a servant but a member of my council. You will also attend tomorrow's meeting with the others, so be prepared," Karthikeya instructed.

"As ordered, Your Highness Karthikeya," Ramu said, kneeling down with his eyes slightly moist.