Rewari Kingdom, Inner pace of Bawal, evening of 7th March 1557

  In the grand hall of the king's court, the atmosphere was charged with a mix of anticipation and anxiety. The richly decorated room shimmered under the flickering torchlights. Courtiers, allied delegates, ministers, and key officials filled the space, their attire reflecting their high status.

  A low murmur of conversation permeated the air as everyone settled into their designated seats and positions based on rank, their eyes fixed on the elevated throne at the center of the room.

  Some delegates, having concluded their business, had already taken their leave, but a few remained out of curiosity about the kingdom's current state and the aftermath of the recent revolt. This session, being the first since the rebellion, was eagerly anticipated.

  As the guard announced, "The King of Rewari, Rao Todar Mal, and Imperial Prince Aditya Hem Chandra Bhargav are gracing us with their esteemed presence," the heavy doors swung open, and a hush fell over the room.

  King Todar Mal and Prince Aditya entered, drawing everyone's attention. The courtiers and delegates rose to their feet, bowing deeply in respect as the King took his pce on the elevated throne at the head of the room.

  Chief Minister Bharadwaj Gupta began, carrying the urgency of the situation. "Your Majesty, esteemed courtiers, today's session will address the aftermath of the recent rebellion and its impact on our kingdom."

  The room erupted into subdued conversations. Delegates exchanged anxious gnces, and some leaned in closer to their neighbors, whispering their concerns.

  As the murmurs of the courtiers faded, Chief Minister Bharadwaj Gupta continued, "Additionally, I have received important updates from the Samrajya. The conquest of Agra has been achieved with remarkable speed, and the imperial army is now advancing towards Amber to face the coalition forces of Marwar. Reinforcements are en route, and we will also be discussing our kingdom's military capabilities and readiness in response to these developments."

  The room buzzed with hushed conversations. The nobility and delegates were visibly shocked by the news of the swift victory. Representatives from member kingdoms exchanged relieved gnces, recognizing the might of their empire, while others, unsure of their positions, either sighed in relief or grew anxious about their own fates.

  Once the room settled into silence, Gupta continued, "Today's discussions will focus on three critical areas. First, we will examine the causes of the recent rebellion and its aftermath. Second, we will assess the impact on our w and order. Finally, we will review our military capabilities to ensure we can effectively support the Emperor's directives."

  As the Chief Minister introduced the agenda, murmurs of agreement and apprehension spread among the courtiers. Some exchanged worried looks, while others nodded thoughtfully, preparing for the details that would follow.

  Gupta gestured for Internal Security Chief Kartar Singh to present his report. Singh stepped forward with a solemn expression, holding a detailed parchment. He handed it to Gupta, who began reading aloud.

  "Esteemed courtiers, the report from our Internal Security Chief sheds light on the recent rebellion and its causes. According to the investigation, there was a significant communication breakdown between local authorities and the royal bureaucracy. This gap was exploited by the rebels, who misused their trust and power.

  Many key officials were either appointed by local lords who sided with the rebels due to personal retions, bribery, or were ruthlessly silenced."

  A gasp of shock rippled through the assembly. A few delegates shifted uncomfortably in their seats, clearly troubled by the implications of the breakdown.

  Gupta continued, "The primary grievances arose from the new reforms in women's inheritance, nd acquisition, and taxation introduced under imperial direction. Regional biases and foreign collusion seeking to upend the throne were major factors as well.

  The ck of effective communication allowed the rebels to gain control over local authorities, using assigned military personnel and civilians for their uprising through mass deceit and misinformation.

  Currently, our kingdom is struggling with a severe leadership vacuum, as many lords responsible for w and order have either been killed or are imprisoned, awaiting punishment."

  Gupta gnced at the report before him and added, "At present, martial w is in effect, with military personnel tasked with maintaining w and order. Rebel properties have been seized in accordance with imperial w.

  Rebel soldiers who participated in the uprising have had their punishments waived in exchange for their return to duty on the frontlines. Additionally, militia recruits from vilges are now patrolling to stabilize the situation."

  The mention of martial w and property seizures drew a mixed reaction. Some courtiers looked relieved by the decisive actions, while others, especially non-member delegates, showed signs of concern about the repercussions for their own regions.

  He then shifted the focus of his report, "However, this is only a temporary solution. The crucial questions we face are: Who will lead the provinces to ensure proper tax collection and governance? And how can we improve the communication gap between local authorities and the royal regime to prevent future unrest?"

  The room fell into thoughtful silence as the weight of these pressing concerns began to settle on the gathered courtiers.

  King Rao Todar Mal nodded in acknowledgment. "Let us proceed with the discussion," he decred. "I expect each of you to contribute your insights and proposals to address the challenges we now face."

  As the deliberations began, various voices rose, each presenting their perspective on how to address the aftermath of the recent rebellion.

  A middle-aged courtier stood up with a stern expression and suggested, "Given the circumstances, I believe we should consider pardoning the rebel lords. Many of them had no viable options and were driven by desperation. Granting them clemency could lead to their support in stabilizing the kingdom."

  His proposal was met with murmurs of agreement from some corners of the room. However, another high-ranking official, a seasoned military commander, objected fiercely.

  "Forgiving the rebel lords is too risky," he argued. "Once they have dared to defy the throne, how can we trust they won't betray us again? Their families have already been decimated by their own subjects, and allowing them back into power could foster further unrest. Their treachery demands a firm response."

  The debate continued, with voices rising and falling in heated exchanges. A third official, a young advisor with a concerned look, proposed, "Perhaps we should let the military rule in the interim. This could bring order and stability to the regions affected by the rebellion."

  This suggestion was quickly met with objections. An experienced minister, with a thoughtful frown, countered, "Promoting military personnel to administrative positions without regard to their merit could lead to corruption. Not all soldiers possess the qualities needed for effective governance. Relying solely on military rule might undermine our administrative structure."

  The room grew chaotic as some courtiers and officials accused each other of undermining the military's loyalty. The arguments became increasingly heated, reflecting the deep divisions in the court's perspective on how to proceed.

  Amidst the growing turmoil, Crown Prince Randeep, who had been listening quietly, stood and addressed the assembly. "Even if our soldiers are loyal and trustworthy, the matters of state and military affairs should be kept separate. Tax collection, leadership, and governance require skills that go beyond those of warfare. We must ensure that those in charge of our provinces are equipped to handle these responsibilities effectively."

  His statement caused a hush to fall over the room. The courtiers and officials absorbed his words, recognizing the validity of his point. The distinction between military prowess and administrative capability was a crucial consideration.

  Prince Randip continued, "Sadly, I admit that I ck the experience and insight to offer a feasible solution. However, I believe we should look to His Highness Aditya for his wisdom and guidance. He has id the foundation for the reforms in our empire's capital, and his wisdom will be invaluable in navigating these challenging times."

  As Prince Randip concluded, the room fell into contemptive silence. The courtiers and officials, now aligned in their respect for Aditya's leadership, awaited his response, understanding that his insights would provide the crity needed to address the kingdom's pressing issues.

  Crown Prince Randip's insightful remarks had shifted the focus toward the Imperial Prince, who had been the savior of not only the empire but also the kingdom. Given his authority, he was now seen as the second most influential figure after the King.

  Aditya, who had been seated beside Randip in the front row, stood up, patted the Crown Prince's shoulder in a gesture of support, and made his way to the stage.

  He bowed respectfully to King Todar Mal before addressing the assembly. "Your Majesty," he began, "the answer lies open before us. In my view, we should consider allowing the people to take part in governance and reduce the burden on the monarchy."

  A murmur of protest swept through the room. The suggestion of involving commoners and those from lower castes in governance was met with visible discomfort and scepticism. Courtiers exchanged worried gnces, and some even shook their heads, challenging long-standing traditions and hierarchies.

  The atmosphere grew tense, reflecting the deep-seated resistance to change, as Aditya's proposal cshed with established norms.