Preparation (Part 3)

Preparation (Part 3)

After the discussion, Muhtasin Pasha starts relay orders on new training methods to be included in 40th Orta. And to add with, I also utilized my wealth to build new training grounds for the Barracks. Just say, new extension in Edirne Janissary Barracks.

For now, I was at Edirne Palace as my residence. "The Edirne Palace, though less opulent than Topkapı, had a quiet elegance befitting its former status as the imperial seat. Its sprawling gardens and intricately tiled halls served as a reminder of Edirne's past glory." With most of the courtiers, including Said Hoca my tutor, and some of the Odaliks, it seems I would be here for a while.

"I arrived here as per you request." Cemil arrived just this morning ago, after several days on horse from Istanbul.

"Cemil-effendim, how's your team and progress?"

"Well as for now, we managed to produce some nitrocellulose. But I dont think we can supply it for the upcoming war." Cemil added.

"I see, hmm well we have to use the rifling method." I explained.

"Rifling method? Can you explain what that is?" Cemil still ponders on what theory is that.

"It is an adjustment, where the inner barrel of the musket will be drilled to have grooves in it. This adjustment will increase the speed and accuracy, at the same time, increase its firing distance."

"That would be great, my shehzade. At least, our soldiers can fire from a longer distance."

"With the military reforms underway, the province's economic stability was the next crucial piece. Stronger soldiers required steady funding, and Edirne, with its bustling trade and fertile lands, was poised to be the empire's breadbasket. For this, I needed Beylerbeyi's insight.".

"Ah, I should have summoned him earlier," I realized belatedly.

~

"You called me, my shehzade?" Celebi Orhan Bey entered with deliberate strides, his blue kaftan glinting under the sunlight that filtered through the ornate windows. A Kilij rested at his side—a silent testament to his dual role as a statesman and warrior

I allowed myself a smile. "No, I didn't summon you. You just wandered in by coincidence."

He blinked, startled, before catching on to the jest. "Ah… yes, my şehzade."

"Celebi bey, can you brief me on the economic report of this province?" 

"Well, as of now, most taxes in Edirne come from agriculture, governed by timar holders—the sipahi. Additionally, revenue is drawn from the iltizam system, the jizya tax on non-Muslims, guild contributions for artisans and crafts, caravanserai tolls from trade routes, and customs duties for external trade," Celebi Orhan Bey explained with practiced ease.

"I see…" I sighed, the weight of economic complexity settling over me. "The jizya system, in particular, must be carefully monitored. Transparency is crucial—we must ensure it is properly disclosed to prevent double taxation."

"As you command, my şehzade," Celebi Bey responded with a slight bow.

I leaned back in thought. "Thank you, Celebi Orhan Bey. From what I've observed, the city appears well-maintained. I trust you can continue managing it effectively in my stead."

"That is correct, my şehzade. I have also received a letter from the capital, confirming that the mantle of authority in this province falls to you. If it pleases you, I will act in your name to administer Edirne."

I nodded, feeling both the weight of the responsibility and relief in his competence. "Very well. You have my trust."

Celebi Bey bowed deeply and departed, leaving me alone in the throne room with my thoughts.

~~

Later, Aydin and Cemil came back.

"I assume your conversation with Celebi-effendim runs smoothly?" Cemil wonder.

"Alhamdulillah so far its good. And my father gave me Edirne to govern."

"Quite bold for an 8 year old." Aydin smiled teasingly.

I sighed. Luckily Celebi offer to do in my stead. I want to focus the army first. "Aydin-effendim, how's the ships of yours? Is it still at Istanbul?"

"Yes, so far, they've moored in Istanbul." he answered. "Good, since Edirne is far from sea, you can send orders to maintain caution and assist the existing patrol at Istanbul for now."

"It shall be done," Aydin bowed, and left to give a signal to its men.

"My shehzade, I was wonder about my role to you, just while ago, I've been entrust to introduce the formula of these nitrocellulose, I assumed it might be alchemist focus line, that you want me to do, but now we are in Edirne, and my team still is in Istanbul. May I know what roles, you want me to play as?" Cemil, start to questions.

Looking at the question, I smiled "Well, I need you as my right hand man, like I said, one cannot be focused on one road, They must be diverse. And you, Cemil-effendim. I select you to be my right hand man. Take a look, you've utilized people under you to start research in Istanbul and that is already a good step in delegating. I need you here in Edirne, because I want you to help me in preparing new inventions that can be introduced in Edirne."

Cemil bowed, determination gleaming in his eyes. "It shall be an honor, my şehzade."

I gave signal to an Odalik to call Muhtasin Pasha.

~~~

"I came as per requested, my shehzade." Muhtasin bowed.

"Muhtasin pasha, I need you to found a new team, the requirement would be those who excel in marksmanship. Optionally, those who have a hunter or falconer background are welcome."

Muhtasin felt weird about the orders. " Forgive me, my shehzade, but what is it you want these men for?"

"Well let's just say they will be specialist shooters." I explained. Yes, actually what I want to do is to found a new sniper squad. I have this idea from General Luna of the Philippines, where they decided to create a sniper squad, and it caused quite an impact during Philippine-American war 1899.

"It shall be done, my shehzade." Muhtasin bowed.

"Cemil, I think we can start to discuss on next type of metal, steel technology."