Empire Ascension: The Rise of the Fated One-Chapter 190: Postponed meetings Part -1

Purana Qila, Prince chamber, morning of 9th April 1557.

During Aditya’s last visit to Khirkee village, he had overheard a peculiar rumor about a merchant operating near the nearby tent settlements. The merchant’s popularity had grown so much that even the company recruits frequented his establishment for meals.

Intrigued by the tale, Aditya, accompanied by Vinayak, decided to investigate in disguise. Upon arrival, he was astounded by the scale of development the merchant’s small enterprise had brought to the settlement. What began as a humble venture had blossomed into a thriving hub of activity, transforming the lives of the local people.

Motivated by the merchant’s talent, Aditya decided to meet him in person. So, his meeting was quickly prioritized, ahead of other postponed appointments.

As Ashitosh entered the prince’s private chamber, he swallowed nervously. However, the warm smile from the prince quickly put him at ease. Standing by the door, he greeted with a bow, "Greetings, Your Highness. This humble servant is at your service."

Aditya gestured toward the seat across from him. "Please, be seated. There’s no need to be afraid."

Ashitosh’s heart swelled with gratitude. As a small level merchant, he had met nobles and even a few princes of minor kingdoms before, but only in passing or other avenues for short discussion but never in a formal appointment like this. Such humility from someone of the prince’s stature was unheard of, and his respect for Aditya soared as he took his seat.

Leaning forward slightly, Aditya spoke with genuine curiosity, "I’ve heard you’ve built a successful food outlet business near the tent settlements for the lower-caste people."

Ashitosh responded modestly, "It is a great honor, Your Highness, that you consider my small venture worthy of such recognition."

Amused, Aditya glanced at the name on the document in front of him. "Ah, Ashitosh-ji, it seems you’re involved in other ventures as well." He smiled warmly. "If it’s not too much to ask, may I know what other businesses you’re engaged in?"

Ashitosh, though slightly wary, responded honestly, "It’s nothing major, Your Highness. I run a small glass manufacturing business and also trade in spices. My operations are based in Gwalior."

"From the kingdom of Gwalior to Delhi?" Aditya raised an eyebrow, surprised by the range of his business.

Ashitosh nodded, "Yes, Your Highness. I was on my way to Jaunpur to recruit trainers for setting up a paper manufacturing plant. But the merchant guild I work with tasked me with learning more about Samrajya’s policies on new ventures like your company."

Aditya’s interest sharpened. ’Glass manufacturing, paper...’ he thought. ’This man could be a major asset.’

He leaned back, studying Ashitosh for a moment. "And have you managed to gather anything useful so far?"

Ashitosh smiled wryly. "Not yet, Your Highness. We’re awaiting a verdict from the king’s court. I believe we have two days left before we receive a response."

Aditya felt pleased, confident that he could handle it. "Two days," he mused, "sometimes things move as fate wills them.. some good, some still pending. But tell me, Ashitosh-ji, how did you come up with the idea to serve the lower-caste settlements? It’s not common to see such ventures, given how they’re usually looked down upon. I’d like to know, how do you view them?"

Ashitosh hesitated for a moment, measuring his words carefully. "Your Highness, to me, business is about profit, and money doesn’t discriminate. I’ve learned over the years that successful business relies on three key factors: demand, supply, and reputation. If I can make money by catering to lower-caste people, I don’t see anything wrong with that. As for the idea itself, I was inspired by the local inn services. I saw a gap in what they lacked and decided to provide it at an affordable price."

For the first time since his reincarnation, Aditya found himself genuinely drawn to someone’s talent. Ashitosh’s sharp business acumen wasn’t just impressive, it was exactly what Aditya needed. A flurry of plans began forming in his mind as he realized the potential Ashitosh held, the ways he could grind his skills and talents to shape the future ventures of the company. But there was still one lingering concern.

The room fell silent for a moment as Aditya gazed at Ashitosh, deep in thought. The merchant, sensing the intensity of the prince’s stare, felt a wave of unease wash over him.

It wasn’t until Vinayak, standing dutifully by his side, cleared his throat that Aditya snapped out of his thoughts.

With a smile, Aditya finally spoke, "Ashitosh-ji, what is your ambition in life?"

Caught off guard by the question, Ashitosh stammered, "Ambition, Your Highness? I... I suppose it’s nothing grand. Like any man, I wish to live a content life with my family, with enough reputation to tackle the challenges life throws at me."

Aditya’s smile broadened. "Would you like to work for me?"

Ashitosh’s eyes widened in shock. "Work... for your esteemed company, Your Highness?" His heart raced as he processed the prince’s words. It was beyond anything he could have imagined. Yet, a sinking feeling set in as he thought of his own business. He had responsibilities, people depending on him.

Sensing his hesitation, Aditya added swiftly, "I understand you have your concerns with your current business in Gwalior. But think about it.. your house is far from here, and I imagine you must miss your family. Wouldn’t it be better if you could settle them closer, where they can enjoy a better life? If you join us, I’ll give you a salary of one gold mudra a day, and guarantee that your children receive the education and training they need to secure their future."

Ashitosh gasped audibly, unable to believe what he was hearing. "One gold mudra (100 silvers) a day?" 𝓯𝙧𝓮𝓮𝒘𝓮𝙗𝙣𝒐𝒗𝒆𝓵.𝓬𝓸𝒎

Aditya’s smile remained, though he raised an eyebrow. "Make it two."

Ashitosh stood up from his chair, astonished. "Two gold mudra a day?"

Aditya leaned back, calm and composed. "Do you have any other demands?"

Ashitosh quickly composed himself, clasping his hands in apology. "Please don’t misunderstand, Your Highness. It’s not that I’m being greedy... I’m just not sure if I’m worthy of such responsibility. And... I’m worried about my current business. Many people depend on me."

Aditya, unfazed, leaned forward again. "That’s not a problem. I’ll buy out all of your enterprises and arrange for the migration of not only your family but also your workers. You’ll have to give up control of your external businesses, but in return, you’ll dedicate all your efforts to my company. I assure you, Ashitosh-ji, a time will come when you’ll have more power than any of the current major merchant groups combined."

Tears welled up in Ashitosh’s eyes. The prince was offering him not only a future but a legacy. A life where his family could thrive. He could barely find the words to express his gratitude as he nodded in agreement and signed the contract.

As Ashitosh left the chamber, Vinayak, still puzzled by the prince’s generosity, couldn’t help but ask, "Your Highness, I don’t mean to question your judgment, but I’m curious. Why go to such lengths for this man? There are many talented people who could be hired for less."

Aditya chuckled, looking at Vinayak with a knowing glint in his eye. "Yes, I could do that. But the difference between them is like iron and stone."

"Iron and stone?" Vinayak repeated, still confused.

Aditya explained, "In today’s time, what I’m looking for is someone who can make something out of nothing. This man, Ashitosh, is not trapped in the old ways. It takes guts to break free from tradition, and this man is no ordinary merchant. He’s a goose that lays golden eggs. What I’m offering him is nothing compared to what he’ll yield for me." he grinned ," It’s mutual gain."

Vinayak sighed inwardly, ’Poor merchant. He thinks he’s found a path to a comfortable life, but he’s fallen into the wrong hands. While he dreams of ease, the prince is just going to work him like a laborer. This guy is insane... Hey, Shiva! When was the last time I took a holiday?"’

But there was no time for Vinayak to dwell on his thoughts as more people filed in for their scheduled meetings.

Soon, Aditya found himself in the midst of a series of discussions with several prominent representatives of merchant groups, the most notable being the Mahajan Sangh, the Bengali Delta Merchant Group, and the Gujarati Bania Sabha.

Each group was eager to persuade Aditya to allow them to operate companies similar to his own, especially the military mercenary services. However, Aditya had a different proposal in mind. Instead of letting them establish direct competition, he offered them an opportunity to invest in his company, becoming members with a 5% share.

He also suggested granting them first priority in handling household products within their market chains. However, the Bengali Delta Merchant Group backed out, citing that such an undertaking was beyond their current capacity and they lack funds to invest as a collective whole.

The Mahajan Sangh was more cautious, indicating that they preferred to wait for a verdict from the king’s court before making any decisions.

In contrast, the Gujaratis were quick to seize the opportunity. They recognized the value of investing in an already established venture rather than trying to create their own. With the growing popularity of Aditya’s products, especially soap and weaponry; they saw guaranteed income and a chance to foster a valuable relationship for future endeavors.

Through these brief conversations, Aditya discerned their underlying intentions: the merchants were planning to replicate his ideas. A chuckle escaped him as he considered their ambitions.

Little did they know, he was on the verge of implementing a patent system that would leave the would-be imitators in the dust.

Now, next comes the turn of nobles.