Chapter 7: Strengthening the Kingdom’s Foundation
1. A Kingdom in Transition
The failed assassination attempt had sent a clear message—Raja Hemchandra Vikramaditya was not to be underestimated. However, Hemu knew that the external threats were nothing compared to the internal cracks within his kingdom.
Sitting in the royal court, he studied a map of his empire, his generals and ministers standing before him.
"Before we face the Mughals, British, and Dutch, we must first strengthen our own foundations," Hemu declared. "We need an empire that is unbreakable from within."
The room fell silent. Everyone knew what he meant. The old system was weak. Corruption and inefficiency were everywhere.
"We start today."
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2. The Council of Reforms
Hemu summoned his key ministers and experts:
Raghunath Rao (Military General)
Keshav Pandit (Chief Strategist & Diplomatic Advisor)
Harshavardhan (Intelligence Chief)
Vikram Thakur (Economic Advisor)
Acharya Vishwanath (Religious and Educational Head)
Chandraprakash (Head of Infrastructure & Engineering)
He looked at them with determination.
"Each of you will oversee major changes that will shape Bharat's future. We will not only prepare for war—we will build an empire that will last for centuries."
3. Overhauling the Economy
Hemu turned to Vikram Thakur, the economic advisor.
"The current tax system is unjust. Farmers suffer, merchants are overburdened, and the rich avoid paying anything. From today, taxes will be set at 5%—fair and unchangeable."
Vikram's eyes widened. "Maharaj, the treasury will suffer—"
"No," Hemu interrupted. "With a stable system, trade and agriculture will flourish. The wealth of the people will become the wealth of the kingdom."
To ensure stability, he also announced a new currency system:
1 Gold Coin = 100 Silver Coins
1 Silver Coin = 100 Copper Coins
1 Gold Coin can feed a family of four for six months.
"Every transaction will be conducted in this standard currency," Hemu continued. "And to prevent exploitation, we will establish a banking system. Traders, farmers, and artisans will have access to loans and investments to grow their businesses."
Vikram nodded slowly. "It will take time, but this will revolutionize trade."
Hemu smiled. "Time is something we do not have much of. Begin immediately."
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4. Military Strengthening & Weapons Development
Hemu turned to Raghunath Rao, his military commander.
"We need to modernize our army. The Mughals rely on cavalry and archers. The British and Dutch use muskets. We must surpass them all."
Raghunath frowned. "We are strong, but our weapons are outdated."
Hemu nodded. "That is why I have begun a new project. We will develop matchlock guns, stronger cannons, and lightweight steel swords."
Raghunath's eyes lit up. "Maharaj, this could change everything!"
"Not could," Hemu corrected. "It will."
Hemu ordered the creation of war factories where blacksmiths, engineers, and alchemists would work together to forge new weapons and armor.
"We will no longer fight with just brute force—we will fight with strategy and superior technology."
Raghunath bowed. "As you command, Maharaj."
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5. Infrastructure & Transportation Revolution
Hemu turned to Chandraprakash, the head of infrastructure.
"To rule efficiently, we must be connected. I want roads built linking every major city, town, and village in the empire."
Chandraprakash hesitated. "This will take years, Maharaj."
Hemu shook his head. "We do not need years—we need months. We will use the labor force efficiently, offering wages and food to workers. Every province will contribute. Start with the roads connecting major trade centers."
Chandraprakash took a deep breath. "It will be done."
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6. Intelligence Network Expansion
Hemu turned to Harshavardhan, his intelligence chief.
"The assassin was just the beginning. There are traitors among us. I want a spy network covering every court, every trade post, every military camp."
Harshavardhan smirked. "It is already in motion, Maharaj. The Garuda Vahini will watch over every corner of the empire."
Hemu nodded. "Good. Anyone who conspires against Bharat will not live to see another day."
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7. The Education & Language Reform
Finally, Hemu addressed Acharya Vishwanath, the religious and educational head.
"A kingdom's true strength lies in its people. We will create gurukuls (schools) in every major city where children can learn strategy, mathematics, governance, and science."
Acharya Vishwanath nodded. "And what of language, Maharaj?"
"From now on, Sanskrit shall be the official language of Bharat. Every citizen shall learn it. This will unify the land and prevent foreign influence from dividing us."
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8. The First Steps Toward an Empire
Hemu stood before his ministers, his voice unwavering.
"Bharat will no longer be a collection of scattered states. We will be one. Strong, unbreakable, and free. Let every king, every invader, and every empire know—Bharat shall not bow to anyone."
The ministers bowed deeply.
The first phase of transformation had begun.
And in the shadows, his enemies prepared to strike back.
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