Chapter 7

As the sun rose the next morning, the faint noises from the city and the approaching rustle of servants roused Karthikeya from his slumber.

Empowered by his passive talent, Beast Sense, he became aware of their presence even before they reached the door. Thulasi entered and gently roused him, although he was already awake, simply unwilling to rise. She reminded him of the impending arrival of the lord for the day's meeting.

Rising and stretching his fatigued limbs, Karthikeya prepared himself for the day ahead, fully aware that he had a court meeting to attend to.

Accompanied by the maids carrying his attire, he made his way to the nearby rectangular pond with its crystal-clear water. Immersing himself in the cool water, he cleansed himself, revitalizing his senses.

After freshening up, he dressed himself accordingly and proceeded towards the court hall, accompanied by two guards trailing behind.

Entering the mansion through the side entrance, he swiftly made his way to the council hall. As he arrived, the guards stationed at the entrance saluted, announcing Karthikeya's arrival before opening the doors.

Walking past his subordinates who bowed in respect, Karthikeya took his seat on the throne within the expansive chamber, ensuring his subordinates were settled and arranging seats for them as well.

With swift efficiency, the guards brought in additional chairs, and Karthikeya gestured for everyone to be seated. As the court session prepared to commence, he addressed the gathering, expressing his ambitions for the kingdom's progress and prosperity. His sincere words evoked expressions of contentment from the gathered courtiers.

"Today signifies the commencement of our collective journey. To each of you, whether here out of loyalty, personal interest, offered benefits, duty, or responsibility, I extend my heartfelt gratitude," Karthikeya declared sincerely, setting the tone for the day's proceedings.

His genuine regard and respect for his subordinates proved worthwhile; through his newfound talent, he could discern that none of them harbored any ill intentions towards him. The sincerity of his courtiers reassured Karthikeya; even Bairavendra and Achuthanandhan, who had not sworn loyalty but were present for their duties, held no animosity towards him.

Despite the subtle arrogance and curiosity emanating from a group of Chola officials entrusted with the responsibility of managing governmental affairs, Karthikeya pushed aside these considerations, redirecting his focus towards the pressing matters at hand.

"Bairavendra and Vallavaraiyan, both of you were appointed by the empire to ensure the stability of the Kingdom and its people, from both the government and military perspectives," he addressed them, emphasizing the gravity of their roles.

"Provide me with a summary of your current actions and their progress up to this point," Karthikeya commanded.

Upon receiving the order, both stepped forward, with Bairavendra giving a military salute and Vallavaraiyan bowing eloquently.

Vallavaraiyan was the first to speak, "Your Highness Karthikeya, for the past month..." Vallavaraiyan continued to elucidate everything he had accomplished during the preceding month.

But upon hearing the report, Karthikeya found himself dissatisfied. It became apparent that Vallavaraiyan and his men had done nothing substantial over the past month, merely providing food for refugees and relying on the existing noble families to stabilize governance.

Reluctant to cast judgment without fully understanding the actual situation within the kingdom, Karthikeya glanced at Bairavendra, silently seeking his insights.

"Your Highness Karthikeya, during the past month, I have..." Bairavendra's manner of speech lacked eloquence, yet he remained focused on detailing his activities and their progress without any unnecessary deviations.

This time, Karthikeya wasn't dissatisfied. According to Bairavendra's report, his activities could be summarized as investigations and the rooting out of rebels.

Bairavendra had inserted spies within the noble families, investigating their strength and seeking any potential contact with the rebel forces. Simultaneously, he had deployed a faction of the Chola army to pursue any rebels associated with the previous Royal family, their loyalists, and various bandit factions.

According to Bairavendra's report, nearly all of the bandits had been eliminated, comprised mainly of civilians with limited military training who resorted to raiding the city for supplies to survive.

Reflecting on the entirety of the report, Karthikeya declared, "Prior to my arrival, I had extensive plans for the future governance of this territory, meticulously designing intricate administrative structures. However, observing the current plight of Anuradhapura, I understand that what this kingdom requires at present is not complex policies but fundamental disaster relief."

Therefore, I have chosen to postpone various appointments to a later date. For now, I will assign specific tasks to be completed within designated timeframes. As for financial expenses and resources associated with the assigned tasks, leave them to me. Is that clear?" Karthikeya inquired, seeking confirmation from his attentive subordinates.

"Yes, Your Highness Karthikeya," they responded in unison.

Satisfied with their collective affirmation, Karthikeya was about to provide instructions for each of their tasks when he was interrupted by Vallavaraiyan. "Your Highness Karthikeya, shouldn't we discuss the coronation ceremony and the Pooja before anything else?"

Upon hearing Vallavaraiyan's words, Karthikeya cast a glance at the others, his expression questioning the seriousness of the suggestion. Observing Vallavaraiyan's expression, Karthikeya spoke gravely.

"Vallavaraiyan, I was appointed to this land and its people as their King and Lord by my father, the Emperor of the Chola Empire. Therefore, the coronation has already been completed," Karthikeya stated firmly before continuing.

"As for the ceremony, I would prefer it to be conducted at a time when my kingdom and its people are not in a state of ruin and suffering," Karthikeya declared.

Karthikeya's subordinates and Bairavendra nodded in understanding, while Vallavaraiyan and the other officials wore expressions of surprise.

Witnessing Karthikeya's expression, Vallavaraiyan once again brought up the topic of rituals for the gods. Despite having some faith in the gods, Karthikeya understood that he couldn't afford to allocate precious time and resources for elaborate rituals when children were suffering from hunger and pain.

"Vallavaraiyan, please take a walk through the city at least once. The people are suffering, with numerous children, women, and elderly individuals left on the streets without shelter or sufficient food. If I, as their king, ignore their plight," Karthikeya's voice resonated with a sense of determination, "then what right do I have to perform lavish rituals to please the Gods ?"

"To satisfy the gods with a ritual, I'm certain they would not bless me but curse me for my ignorance," Karthikeya stated, his tone laced with annoyance.

"But, Your Highness," Vallavaraiyan's attempted to refute, only to be cut off by an irate Karthikeya.

"Shut it, Vallavaraiyan. I don't have time for this, and if you can't do what I ask of you, I no longer require your services, and you may leave the court and the kingdom," Karthikeya stated sternly, glaring at the officials with an unwavering gaze.