Chapter 53: Prince’s Solutions

Chapter 53: Prince's Solutions

Emperor Hemu's face turned grave as he regarded Aditya. "Clarify your thoughts, Aditya," he implored, his voice weighted with the gravity of the situation. "Tell us what's on your mind."

Aditya met the Emperor's gaze unwaveringly. "It is plausible," he began, "that Shadi Khan harbored resentment, but the circumstances of the attacks raise suspicions. Abdul Hameed's entire army was decimated, while Istehar Khan's assailant was merely a harem member. Furthermore, the sudden influx of Muslim traders, coupled with the disappearance of reports from Kashmir, suggests a more intricate plot."

Sukhwindar Singh interjected, his confusion evident. "But, Your Highness, didn't you sign a peace treaty with Pakistan? Why would they engage in such actions?"

Aditya's lips curved into a knowing smile as he pondered Sukhwindar's question. 'Naive indeed,' he thought to himself. As someone well-versed in the intricacies of modern geopolitics, he understood the deceptive tactics employed by nations, especially through proxies.

Turning to Sukhwindar, Aditya's expression became solemn. "Your Grace," he began, "While we may have a treaty to prevent outright war, it doesn't prevent clandestine actions by unofficial factions. Additionally, we don't have any diplomatic alliance to know what's going on there" As his words sank in, a sense of gravity settled over the room, each member realized the implications of Aditya's revelation.

He continued, "Furthermore, personally, I believe Shadi Khan is being framed. He has no motive to take such drastic measures when circumstances already favor him. On the contrary, it is we who stand to lose if we persecute him based on Istehar Khan's vague report."

Prime Minister Chandrashekhar interjected, "Prince, are you implying a conspiracy by Istehar Khan? Do you have evidence?"

Aditya bowed respectfully before responding, "I apologize, Your Grace, but let us not overlook the fact that Istehar Khan's evidence is ambiguous and susceptible to manipulation. This accusation could serve his interests while posing minimal risk to him."

A hushed silence fell over the chamber as Emperor Hemu weighed Aditya's words. Finally, he spoke, "It appears you have a plan, Aditya."

Aditya nodded solemnly. "Yes, Your Majesty," he affirmed. "At this very moment, it's entirely plausible that Istehar Khan is spreading rumors through his channels, painting a false picture of mistreatment of Muslims. We must counter this narrative by promoting Shadi Khan, who has proven himself to be more loyal and progressive than Istehar Khan, who has already sown seeds of discord within the Grand Chamber of Assembly."

Sukhwindar Singh raised an objection, but Aditya maintained his composure. "Your Grace," he replied calmly, "I'm not suggesting we release Shadi Khan. Rather, I propose we restrict access to the Kingdom of Agra until this matter is resolved, ensuring Shadi Khan remains within Imperial jurisdiction."

Sukhwindar Singh persisted in his protest, but Emperor Hemu silenced him with a gesture, granting Aditya permission to continue.

Aditya's words hung heavy in the air as he proposed a solution. "What we need now is a scapegoat to handle this situation," he stated, his voice firm. "Even without concrete proof, we can claim to have uncovered links between foreigners colluding with regional powers to incite uprisings. This could shift the focus away from Hindu-Muslim conflicts and unite us under a common cause of security, giving us time to uncover the real culprit."

Emperor Hemu nodded in agreement. "It seems you have more to add," he remarked.

"Concerning potential foreign threats," Aditya addressed the council, his voice resonating with authority and foresight, "we must take proactive measures. I propose deploying central forces to Punjab and Kashmir, showcasing our unwavering commitment to security. Furthermore, imposing a temporary ban on the movement of large groups of travellers or merchants across our borders for one month would serve as a strategic deterrent."

His eyes scanning the attentive faces of the council members, Aditya continued, "In addition, we must dispatch urgent pigeon posts to our border states, urging them to bolster their defenses, especially in Kashmir. Moreover, the construction of more watchtowers along our borders will enhance our vigilance and early warning capabilities."

Emperor Hemu nodded in agreement. "Very well," he replied. "Prime Minister, ensure this matter is handled promptly."

Emperor Hemu, satisfied with their responses, nodded approvingly. "Very well," he acknowledged, his voice carrying a note of encouragement. "I trust that you both will handle this matter with the diligence it deserves."

With their roles defined and their determination clear, the council members resumed their discussions.

After few moments, Aditya saw an opportune moment to make a request of Emperor Hemu. With a respectful nod towards the Emperor, Aditya spoke, his voice carrying a tone of earnestness and concern.

"Your Majesty," Aditya began, "I understand the gravity of the situation regarding the custody of Amira, daughter of our former Defense Minister. With Raamya assuming her new role as Defense Chief, her duties will undoubtedly demand her full attention. I propose that, for the time being, I would like to take full responsibility for Amira's care and well-being."

As Aditya presented his proposal, Sukhwindar Singh voiced his objection, raising concerns about granting such privileges to the daughter of a subject, of the empire. However, Prime Minister Chandrashekhar stepped forward in support of his grandson's request, emphasizing the importance of alleviating Raamya's burden and providing solace to Princess Amira in these troubled times.

Emperor Hemu, his expression thoughtful, listened to the arguments presented before him. After a moment of consideration, a faint smile touched his lips as he responded, "Very well, Aditya. You may take custody of Amira for the time being. However," he added, his tone firm, "By nightfall, she must return to her designated room and remember my earlier caution."

Aditya, acknowledging the Emperor's conditions with a respectful bow, expressed his gratitude and assurance. With the Emperor's consent granted, the council meeting drew to a close, leaving Aditya to take on the newfound responsibility entrusted to him.

*****

After exiting the king's chamber, Aditya hurried to Amira's room in the late hours of the night, his heart pounding with concern. Upon arrival, he frantically searched the room, but there was no sign of her. Fearing the worst, he hastened to Raamya's quarters, where he was met by a contingent of guards stationed at the entrance.

Undeterred, he pushed past them and entered the room, where he found Amira nestled in Raamya's comforting embrace, tears streaming down her cheeks.

"Amira," Aditya called out softly, his voice filled with empathy and reassurance.

Startled, Amira looked up, her tear-filled eyes meeting his with a mixture of relief and anguish. Without a word, she rushed into his embrace, her sobs muffled against his chest.

Her voice trembled with emotion as she whispered, "Aditya, my abbu is innocent. He would never betray the empire. They're saying he's a traitor." Her words were choked with sorrow and disbelief, her heart heavy with the weight of the accusations against her beloved father.

With tender care, Aditya enveloped Amira in his arms, holding her close as she wept. "I know your father is innocent," he declared, his voice a steady anchor in the storm of her emotions. Gently wiping away her tears, he cupped her cheeks, his gaze unwavering with determination. "Look at me," he urged softly. "I promise to clear his name and bring him back to you. You trust me, don't you?" His words rang with conviction and promise, offering Amira a glimmer of hope in the darkness.

Amira nodded fervently, her trust in Aditya evident in the way she clung to him. Aditya returned her embrace, holding her close in a silent pledge of support and determination. As they stood together, united in their resolve, Raamya approached with a gentle expression of sympathy.

Without hesitation, she joined their embrace, enveloping them both in a comforting hug. In that moment, amidst the turmoil and uncertainty, they found solace in each other's presence, drawing strength from their shared bond of loyalty and compassion.

With Amira and Raamya by his side, Aditya's resolve solidified into an unbreakable determination. As he held them close, a steely resolve ignited within him, driving him to uncover the truth behind the accusations and bring justice to those responsible, no matter the cost.