Chapter 9: The Heir’s Court

Three days later, the notice for the special test was like a drop of water in hot oil.

It set the whole city abuzz.

It was called a special test because those selected wouldn’t be appointed managers directly—only assigned to the family office.

The family office was the so-called small court of the heir, but I was still young, and my father robust and likely to live for many years.

So taking the special test didn’t seem very worthwhile.

Few were willing to spend years assisting a young leader, so most applicants were young themselves.

Since it was my test, I set the questions myself.

With a bold stroke, I wrote: "scholars, farmers, artisans, traders."

Arjun asked, "Is this a question?"

I shook my head. "No, it’s four."

Choose any one of the four and discuss your views.

No restriction on background, age, or gender.

In the end, Bansal stood at the front of those selected.

I smiled at everyone. "Since you’re here, you’re all people of my family office."

I was very satisfied with those selected. They were all young, though lacking experience, each was full of vitality,

The office bustled with the energy of new beginnings—steel tiffins clanked, chai was poured into glasses, and the young hopefuls adjusted their kurtas and tucked in their shirts. I caught Arjun’s eye across the crowded room; he nodded approvingly. Outside, a vendor sold peanuts, his voice carrying through the open window. This was my court, my people—the world I would shape in my own way, neither son nor daughter, but simply Jaya, heir to all that mattered.

As the new recruits gathered, I felt the weight of a hundred eyes—and for the first time, I wondered if I was truly ready.