The day prior in the Maratha Kingdom:
Lahore, the current capital of the Maratha Empire, currently consists of two major groups: the Sikhs and the Marathas. Although both groups follow different religions, many of their values coincide with each other. As a result, there is no conflict of interest between them.
Even the current Crown Prince of the kingdom is betrothed to a Sikh woman as a symbol of peace and coexistence. The oppression of the Mughal Empire has also become a contributing factor, which forced them to integrate more closely.
Inside the palace:
An old man—the current king of the Maratha Kingdom—is seated on his throne, holding an unfamiliar weapon in his hand. The design of the weapon is peculiar, as it is not crafted anywhere in the subcontinent. Though the design might be unrecognized by ordinary people, being a king, knowledge serves as a pivotal criterion for ruling a country. He understands that the weapon's design originates from a European country.
However, the man standing before the King has a different point of view. This man is none other than Roshan, the Rebel leader who is procuring arms from the Vijayanagar Empire.
The events leading up to this situation go back to a few days ago.
Being a smart individual, he first inquired about the origin of the arms. He didn't wholly buy the notion that the weapons originated from the Dutch or the Portuguese. His skepticism grew when he observed the demeanour of the individuals who delivered the weapons. Despite their casual attire, their rigid and disciplined movements betrayed a military temperament. He guessed that these arms were likely manufactured by a strong military force.
As he delved further into the investigation, he uncovered that his friend, who had facilitated the arms trade, had aligned with the Vijayanagar Empire following the defeat of his own forces. This, coupled with the recent reforms that had been implemented, solidified his suspicions that the weapons were not of European origin but rather from within the subcontinent—specifically, from the Vijayanagar Empire.
However, being a resourceful man, he figured out the reason behind their actions. He chose not to reveal this information. Rather than leaking the news, he meticulously addressed all potential vulnerabilities, eliminated informants, and eradicated any traceable information that the Mughals might become privy to concerning Vijayanagara's plan.
While on one of his expeditions, a spy from the Maratha Kingdom, to whom he had previously sold information, reached out to him regarding the weaponry they had acquired. Initially, he contemplated fabricating a story, suggesting that the arms had been procured from a Dutch merchant ship. However, considering the seemingly good relationship between the Vijayanagar Empire and the Maratha kingdom, He chose to be honest and tell the truth.
However, he decided not to tell the spy this information because he didn't want it to spread to more people. So, he asked to meet the king in person to share the news directly.
"Are you certain?" questioned Rajendra Bansal, the reigning king of the Maratha Kingdom.
"I am absolutely sure, Your Highness," Roshan affirmed. "My sources of information are highly reliable."
Rajendra paused briefly, pondering the situation, before nodding in agreement.
"Peshwa," he addressed the prime minister, "send a message to the Vijayanagar Empire." As he spoke, he penned a personal letter to Vijay himself.
"This letter contains the Maratha Empire's proposition to form a secret alliance with the Vijayanagar Empire. We're interested in collaborating for the supply of food and weapons."
"We might not be rich in gold or food, but we can offer other resources from our region in exchange. We can trade for the provisions we need," Rajendra continued. "Create a comprehensive list of the resources we have in abundance, and take some samples with you to present to their king."
"Look for items that could be used for trade. If possible, also work on negotiating a peace treaty with the Vijayanagar Empire."
The Thin Peshwa, who received the order, hesitated momentarily and voiced his concerns.
"But Your Highness, how can we transport all these materials for trade? We don't share a common border with the Vijayanagar Empire. And if we attempt to transport through the Mughal Empire, they will seize all the weapons upon discovery. While food might be allowed, they would still demand around 40% of it to be given to them."
A chuckle escaped the king as he gestured towards the Rebel leader, addressing the issue directly. "Do you not find using these armed individuals to fight the Mughal empire is a bit wasteful of Vijayanagara's resources?"
He then turned towards the Rebel leader, Roshan, and proposed, "Why don't you and your comrades collaborate to form a group? This could facilitate smoother transactions between our two countries. You are all familiar with the natural terrain, which would make transportation more efficient. Instead of engaging in futile battles for years, why not assist us in transporting the much-needed goods?"
He continued, directing his words to Roshan, "I've heard of your grievances with the Mughal Empire, leading to your fight for revenge. However, your resistance against the Mughal Empire could be more effective if you support us. This would also provide you with the opportunity to earn some income in the process. You could derive benefits from the goods passing through your routes."
"I understand that many of your comrades might not be motivated by money. Yet, the funds earned could be used to expand your forces and influence Mughal officials as well," the king concluded.
Upon hearing the statement, everyone in the hall was left stunned. "What a vicious plan," silently resonated in the minds of all present.
After a prolonged moment of contemplation that seemed like a tough decision had been reached, Rajendra made an announcement. "I've heard that the king of Vijayanagar is a young hero who remains unmarried." He continued with a pained expression, "I have decided to betroth my only daughter to him as a gesture of our alliance." His voice was strained.
The declaration sent shockwaves through the assembly. Those familiar with the king knew of his deep affection for his youngest child and only daughter. At just 16 years old, the princess had been the centre of his attention since childhood.
"I won't be able to protect you for much longer, my daughter," the king murmured, his voice growing feeble with age as he sat on his throne. He understood that even though things appeared peaceful at the moment, it wouldn't last long. The truth was that the Mughal Empire was on the verge of expanding, incorporating more territories and people. It was becoming stronger, absorbing different regions and populations into its domain. Once this happened, finding peace would become extremely challenging.
He resolved to marry his beloved daughter to Vijayanagar, With the hope that this alliance would offer a chance to withstand the impending threat.