Chapter 22 ; The final talk.
Well then, it seems we have an agreement between us. But before that, we should get engaged first, and then we will marry later," Rajeshwari said after hearing Ayush's words.
Ayush didn't personally deny it. Instead, he nodded and then looked at Queen Durgawati.
"Indeed, Your Majesty. Now that this matter is settled, I believe we should focus on the cooperation between us, which is the true reason I came here."
Durgawati leaned forward slightly, looking at Ayush and Gaurav, who were seated before her. She nodded thoughtfully. "I assume you are referring to the growing threats from the Bijapur Sultanate and the Mughal Empire, correct?"
Ayush met her gaze with confidence. "Yes, Your Majesty. The Bijapur Sultanate is not a force to be taken lightly, and one day, it will undoubtedly become an obstacle if we truly wish to expand our dynasty. If we don't act now, then later, not only Bijapur but also the Mughals will turn their attention toward us. You have already seen how your own kingdom was destroyed, and now mine is at risk as well."
He continued, his tone firm. "It will be too late to react if we put off taking action any longer. Therefore, I suggest that we start adding weapons to our army—high-tech weapons, which I will supply. Additionally, we will develop our men into exceptionally talented combatants with the right training.
As Durgawati listened to Ayush's comments, she drummed her fingers on the armrest. "Yes, I have heard that the Bijapur Sultanate is seeing a rise in the use of firearms. We cannot afford to lose ground and become outgunned.
Gaurav, who had been watching from behind, moved forward at this point. That's precisely why we need to teach your soldiers to be deadly combatants, Your Majesty. They need to learn how to handle guns properly, and if we start producing them in large quantities."
Rajeshwari, who had remained silent until now, frowned slightly. "Mass-producing guns? That would require a dedicated arms factory. Can we really afford that?"
She continued, her sharp mind quickly analyzing the situation. "Not to mention, producing firearms on such a large scale will require a vast amount of raw materials. I don't think our dynasty can support the creation of ten thousand weapons within just a few years."
She looked directly at Ayush. "And besides, we don't have enough skilled craftsmen who can manufacture guns based on your blueprints, do we?"
Although Rajeshwari was young, she had deep knowledge of her dynasty's resources and limitations. She understood certain aspects that even Ayush and Gaurav might have overlooked.
Ayush, however, remained unfazed. Gaurav stepped forward once more and confidently addressed both Rajeshwari and the queen.
"Well, Your Majesty, you don't have to worry about skilled blacksmiths. My soldiers can be trained to do this. What we need from you is the procurement of minerals and raw materials, as well as the establishment of large-scale production facilities. If you can handle that, we will take care of mass-producing the firearms and training your soldiers to use them effectively."
Queen Durgawati paid close attention, her fingers continuing to tap gently on the armrest. She shifted her focus to Gaurav, her face betraying no emotion. "You are suggesting an extensive undertaking—one that demands time, personnel, and resources." Even if we succeed in manufacturing firearms, teaching soldiers to use them effectively presents a different challenge entirely.
Ayush leaned in a bit, his voice steady. "Your Majesty, every moment is crucial.The Bijapur Sultanate is preparing for conflict, while the Mughals observe from the sidelines."
"If we don't get ready now, we will remain vulnerable when they finally attack."
Rajeshwari folded her arms, lost in contemplation. "However, what is your strategy for implementing such extensive production?"
"Firearms differ from swords or spears; they demand accuracy, expertise, and specialized craftsmanship."
"Even if we possess the resources, do you really believe your men can be educated as blacksmiths?"
A slight grin formed on Ayush's lips. "Princess, you fail to recognize the capabilities of well-trained soldiers. A warrior's hands are not only for gripping weapons; they can also create them. He looked at Gaurav, who nodded affirmatively. "
Gaurav moved ahead. "We possess a plan in our thoughts. Instead of depending only on current blacksmiths, we will select talented workers and educate them under seasoned artisans. Through structured instruction, they will acquire the skills to manufacture firearms effectively."
Durgawati breathed out gently, her gaze sweeping through out the room. "And what about the resources? What can you tell me about the minerals? Firearms need iron, sulfur, saltpeter, and charcoal to manufacture gunpowder, along with accurate metal craftsmanship to produce barrels and mechanisms. "These matters don't materialize from nowhere."
Ayush gave a nod. That's where our collaboration is useful. Rich minerals and trade networks are available to your kingdom. We will take care of the production and training if you supply the required raw materials. The system that I am in charge of will make sure that everything goes according to plan.
His remarks caused Durgawati's eyes to narrow a little. "System?"
Ayush hid his slip immediately. I was referring to the structure of organization we have in place for effective workflow. For each operation, we will form specialized teams; some will refine metal, others will shape components, and the best will put the finished product together. Everything will run like a well operating machine.
"And how long do you think it will take to produce enough firearms to arm an entire army?" inquired Rajeshwari, who remained doubtful to Ayush words.
After giving it some thought, Ayush answered. "With effective mobilization, we can start arming our first group of soldiers in six months. We can have a fully equipped battalion with guns within a year. And we can totally transform our military in two years.
Leaning back, Durgawati considered what he had said. "This is a bold plan. However, it will alter the course of the conflict if you can make it work."
Then she gave a straightforward command to one of her royal counselors.
"Start evaluating our mines. Within a week, I would like a comprehensive report on the availability of sulfur, iron, and other necessary components."
The advisor bowed and hurried out of the room.
Rajeshwari let out a sigh. It will be difficult to train soldiers even if we produce firearms. Unlike swords, firearms need discipline, patience, and accuracy. In what way will you train them?
Ayush grinned. "I've already thought about that."
He pointed to Gaurav, who assumed control.
"We'll put in place a methodical training procedure. First, we will assemble our smartest and most disciplined fighters to be the first group of soldiers with firearms.
They will undergo rigorous instruction in battlefield tactics, aiming, and reloading. They will become teachers for the following group after they have mastered it. Knowledge and expertise will proliferate in this manner.
Slowly, Durgawati nodded. "How about fighting formations? With guns, battle must be approached differently.
Ayush grinned. "We will revolutionize the method of fighting battles." Our troops will be trained in formations meant for firearms, ranked volleys, staggered firing lines, and tactical positioning. "As adversary troops advance with swords and spears, we will neutralize them before they can approach us."
Rajeshwari lifted an eyebrow. "You make it seem so simple."
Ayush looked into her eyes. "It may be challenging, but it will be impactful."
After a long silence, Durgawati eventually spoke.
"Quite good. You will receive my assistance."
" We will coordinate our resources and initiate the initial stage of firearm manufacturing. In exchange, I anticipate outcomes."
Ayush rose and inclined his body a bit. "You shall not be let down, Your Majesty."
Rajeshwari paused in silence for a moment before eventually exhaling. "I guess we will find out if your big plan works or not."
Gaurav laughed softly. "We don't require luck, Princess."
"We possess a strategy."
Durgawati rose, indicating the conclusion of the meeting.
"Let us start making preparations right away."
"We must win this war."