Chapter 5: Formation of the Imperial Council II
Three of the seven council members have been selected so far. The remaining four positions will be filled with Vijay's own people, as they are considered too important to be given to outsiders. For the military department, the ideal candidate should be adept at military and politics, possess no actual power, but have massive influence in the army.
Vijay pondered the situation, and a thought came to his mind, "Ah, I see. In that case, the ideal candidate for the military department is Lokanandha Senapati, a 60-year-old military general. He has a remarkable track record of serving alongside his father and successfully overcoming various challenges that hindered his family. Though now retired due to his age, Lokanandha Senapati remains an excellent choice for the position in the military department. His experience, expertise, and loyalty make him the best candidate for the role," he muttered to himself.
For the finance department, it was an easy choice as no one else crossed his mind other than his butler. The butler had practically managed the treasury of his family, which, for all purposes, was also considered the kingdom treasury. Given his exceptional skills in financial management and trustworthiness, the butler made him the perfect candidate for the role.
As for the religion and cultural department, Vijay needs someone with an open mind and a high acceptance of new concepts. As he tapped his finger while pondering, a face came to his mind - Raghavendra Bhat, the head priest of the Shiva temple who had previously canonized him.
Raghavendra Bhat comes from a distinguished lineage of Brahmins, holding a significant position within the social hierarchy as representative of the Brahmin community. Despite facing challenges early in life due to his father's passing, Bhat took on family responsibilities during his teens, which led to his mature upbringing. Unlike other children who might benefit from nepotism but lack manners and ability, Raghavendra stands out with both his manners and abilities.
Convinced that Raghavendra Bhat fits the criteria perfectly, Vijay wrote down his name as the ideal candidate for the role in the religion and cultural department.
Having a big headache over the selection for the judicial department, Vijay found himself unable to think of anyone suitable for the role. With a sigh, he massaged his head.
Feeling the need for assistance, Vijay called his trusted butler to convey his orders.
"Uncle Ravi, I need you to put your job down as the family's butler and..."
*thud*
The butler nodded, as He swiftly left to carry out his task, confident that he could fulfil Vijay's expectations with his choice.
A few hours later, Uncle Ravi came back with a middle-aged man who looked a little haggard.
"This is..." said Vijay, confused by the appearance of the middle-aged man.
Butler Ravi noticed Vijay's confusion and explained, "This is Bhuvan. He used to be in charge of judging cases in Vellore town, but because of his rigid personality, he offended many noble people and got kicked out of officialdom."
Vijay suddenly understood the situation and became interested. He asked Bhuvan, "Tell me, Justice demands wisdom. How would you handle a case where a nobleman commits a crime?"
Bhuvan replied, "With due process, Your Highness. I shall treat all equally, regardless of rank, ensuring the truth prevails."
Vijay was impressed and continued, "And if your family were involved in wrongdoing?"
Bhuvan responded with determination, "Your Majesty, my duty lies with justice, and I would hold my family accountable like any other."
Encouraged by Bhuvan's principles, Vijay made a decision, "Let's appoint you as a temporary council member, Bhuvan, and hope your words ring true until you prove yourself."
Despite Bhuvan's lack of qualifications and some lingering doubts about his trustworthiness, Vijay recognized his rare and solid principles in this era. However, he remained confident that with his "golden finger," he could make Bhuvan a crucial part of his small startup team, provided he proved his loyalty.
"Uncle Ravi, please convey to all council members that we shall hold a meeting tomorrow, and I expect their presence without any delay."
End of Chapter 5.