Chapter 8: Military Reform I
It has been a few days since Vijay returned from his tour, and his first priority was to reform the military. He had many ideas to make the kingdom prosperous, but he knew that safeguarding its interests required a strong military. As the morning sun cast a warm glow, Vijay sat in his study contemplating the path to military reform.
"Vinode, please call Lokananda Senapathi. I wish to speak with him," Vijay instructed his butler. Vinod nodded and left to fetch the old general. Lokananda Senapathi arrived, dressed simply yet exuding dignity. He respectfully bowed before Vijay and greeted, "Long live Your Highness."
"Lokananda Senapathi, I have been considering the need for military reform," Vijay said directly, skipping any small talk. Lokananda was not surprised; he knew that his Highness had grand ambitions.
"What is the current strength of our army, Senapati?" Vijay inquired.
"Your majesty, it is 100,000 troops, divided into two divisions under the command of two generals," Senapati replied.
"And how many noble households and landlords are there in the army?" Vijay asked.
Senapati was taken aback by the question but quickly responded, "There are 10,500 noble households, your majesty."
Vijay frowned, "Why so low? Don't the nobles hold significant influence in the army?"
Senapati explained, "There was a major cleanup during your father's rule, your majesty. He increased the qualifications to join the army and attain higher ranks, resulting in the removal of many lazy nobles from the military."
Vijay further inquired, "Why wasn't I aware of this? Was there no resistance?"
Senapati clarified, "There was no resistance, your majesty. The previous king granted some grain taxation rights to the nobles, which facilitated the transition. As most nobles fear for their lives, they accepted the change willingly. Now, only the capable ones remain in the army."
"Oi, look where you are going next time," was all he heard from his master. He was dumbfounded by his words. Not just him, but all the servants around him looked at the departing back of the old general with mouths agape .it was the first time they saw the general this happy.
Lokananda excitedly took a parchment to start planning for the new reforms. However, as he placed the pen on the parchment, his smile faded away as he realized he had no clue how to accomplish what Vijay had asked for - an army of 100,000 soldiers defeating a 500,000 army. , a uniform and high-quality force, what does that even mean anyway?. In all his years of service, he had never encountered such an army. Now he realized that his Highness had dug a huge pit for him, And feeling annoyed, replaying his Highness's speech in his mind. he had nowhere to vent his anger,
*Click*
Just then, a servant came with some tea. The old man was in a bad mood and yelled angrily, "Who told you to come in? Get out!" The servant, puzzled, had question marks on her face. Everyone in the mansion wondered, "What happened again...? Wasn't their master in a good mood? Who ruined it?" They glared daggers at the maid who came out. The maid, seeing all their looks, looked aggrieved as she had no clue what she had done.
Lokananda walked around, going from corner to corner, deep in thought. "Ahhh," he exclaimed, holding his head, and decided, "I'll talk to His Majesty tomorrow to reduce the requirements," as he went to sleep.
late at night, Lokananda had a dream where he dreamt of an invincible army
This army was renowned for its disciplined and well-organized structure. It operated on a system of universal conscription, requiring all eligible male citizens to serve in the military. This ensured a large and well-trained force, ready to defend the state.
This army's soldiers underwent rigorous training, instilling discipline, marksmanship, and efficient battlefield tactics. The army's emphasis on quick and efficient responses to commands led to a cohesive and highly effective fighting force.
At the heart of This military's success was its General Staff system. This centralized body of highly trained officers was responsible for planning and executing military operations. Their strategic and tactical expertise gave This army a significant advantage on the battlefield.
Their infantry was renowned for its precision and effectiveness in combat. They utilized line tactics, forming rows of soldiers to maximize their combat effectiveness. The officer corps was a key component of This army. Officers received specialized training at military academies, ensuring a high level of competence and professionalism within the leadership ranks.
Through military reforms and innovative practices, This army maintained its military edge. Their culture of professionalism and loyalty to the state fostered a strong sense of duty and cohesion among the soldiers.
*Bah*!
Lokananda suddenly woke up, panting heavily. "Thank you, Shiva," he prayed in gratitude, and then he sprinted towards his study room in the middle of the night, running like a 20-year-old.