** Next day after the reforms of Bhargav Samrajya, Jan 30, 1557, Hampi **
The great Vijayanagara Empire, a beacon of culture, power, and prosperity in medieval India. Founded in the 14th century by the visionary king Harihara I, this magnificent empire rose to prominence in the Deccan Plateau, becoming a symbol of Hindu resilience against foreign invasions.
As it grew, it took over lands from nearby kingdoms like the Bahmani Sultanate, the Gajapati Kingdom, and the Hoysala Empire.
During Krishna deva raya's rule, the empire reached great heights, expanding even more by taking lands from kingdoms like the Bahmani Sultanate, the Gajapati Kingdom, and others.
Nestled amidst the lush landscapes of South India, Vijayanagara was known for its busy markets in Hampi and stunning temples across the land, showing off Hindu civilization's greatness.
Krishnadevaraya's time as ruler was a time of wealth and learning, with the empire's art and culture booming as it grew in size and power.
However, in current alternate timeline, Krishna Deva Raya's two sons, Tirumala Deva Raya and Achyut Deva Raya, faced a different fate. Tirumala Deva Raya was slated to be crowned at the young age of 20 but narrowly escaped a poisoning attempt, altering the course of Vijayanagara's history. Thanks to the quick thinking of the then Prime Minister Timmarasu, who saved the imperial prince, the empire's destiny took a new turn.
Under Tirumala Deva Raya's rule, Vijayanagara made critical errors, including provoking the Portuguese under Dutch influence and forming alliances with Bijapur Sultanate and the Dutch. This led to a conflict where the Portuguese were initially ousted from India but later betrayed by the Dutch. The Dutch, along with Bijapur Sultanate forces, captured the western half of Vijayanagara (southern maharastra and northern karnataka).
However, Vijayanagara managed to turn the tide with the reinforcements in the Sangameshwar region, where the Krishna and Tungabhadra rivers meet. The natural terrain advantage provided by forests, mountains, and the rivers' natural borders proved crucial in halting the Dutch advance and eventually defeating them.
In the backdrop of declining influence and looming threats from neighboring kingdoms, the once-mighty Vijayanagara Empire found itself teetering on the brink of collapse. The reigning emperor implemented a policy of isolationism, severing trade ties with external kingdoms, hastening the empire's downward spiral. However, a glimmer of hope emerged in the form of the emperor's son, Shyama Deva Raya. With the support of the Maratha tribe, Hindu refugees from Bijapur Sultanate, he employed guerrilla military tactics to defend the borders.
Additionally, the emperor's daughter Meenakshi Devi, skillfully convinced her aeging rigid father to atleast uphold trade connections in the south, forging agreements with the Madurai Sultanate and initiating trade negotiations with Sri Lanka. These diplomatic efforts proved vital, offering a lifeline to the imperiled empire.
Amidst the aftermath of the Dutch betrayal, neighboring kingdoms refrained from escalating tensions, wary of potential Dutch exploitation. However, they also abstained from extending aid to Vijayanagara, driven by lingering rivalries from the past.
Against this backdrop of uncertainty, an urgent pigeon post arrives in the imperial capital of Hampi. A mysterious letter from the Bhargav Samrajya, injecting further intrigue into the empire's already precarious situation.
In the opulent halls of the royal palace in Hampi, Emperor Tirumala Deva Raya, a dignified figure of 47 years, held court upon his ornate throne, his regal presence commanding respect from all who beheld him. His face bore the marks of age and wisdom, yet his gaze remained sharp and discerning, betraying the keen mind that lay behind it.
As the courtiers bustled about, attending to their respective duties, the prime minister, Timmarasu, approached the emperor with a troubled countenance. Tirumala Deva Raya's furrowed brow softened momentarily as he observed the loyal minister's approach.
"Timmarasu," the emperor addressed him, his voice resonating with authority yet tempered with concern, "what weighs heavily on your mind, my trusted minister?"
Timmarasu bowed respectfully before Emperor Tirumala Dev, his expression grave. "Your Majesty, a pigeon post has arrived from the northern territories. It bears the seal of the new Northern Hindu Empire, Bhargav Samrajya, and is addressed by the imperial prince Aditya, expressing a desire for an alliance with our empire."
At the mention of alliance, a shadow crossed the emperor's face. "I detest that word, Timmarasu. It brings nothing but trouble."
Shyam Dev Raya, the emperor's son, spoke up, his voice eager yet respectful. "But Father, perhaps it's wise to consider the nature of this alliance."
After a moment's contemplation, Emperor Tirumala Dev nodded thoughtfully. "Very well, let us hear what they have to say. At least they are Hindu. Prime Minister, what do they propose?"
Timmarasu straightened, his tone measured. "Your Majesty, they seek peace and trade, suggesting that such a partnership would benefit the great power of the south. They also mention that the Gajapati Kingdom, as an alliance member, would provide a route for travel to the north."
The emperor's interest was piqued, a hint of curiosity replacing his earlier indifference. "And what is the consensus of the court on this matter?"
Timmarasu bowed once more, his demeanor resolute. "Your Majesty, I believe it would be unwise to rush into a decision. The risks of entering into trade negotiations with an uncertain ally are significant, especially when we are at a disadvantage. Perhaps it would be prudent to wait and assess the situation further."
Mallapa Reddy, the military general, spoke up, "Your Majesty, I believe this could be a trap orchestrated by the Gajapathi kingdom to ensnare us and hold us hostage for their own gains."
Shyam Dev, the crown prince, interjected, "Father, I suggest we consider the possibility that this letter is genuine. The Gajapathis understand that we are the last stronghold in the region, and they may be seeking an alliance to bolster their defenses. We could potentially gain military support from this new northern empire."
Mallapa Reddy remained skeptical, "But, Your Majesty, placing trust in a distant foreign power, especially one that offers peace with no assurances beyond trade, is a risk we cannot afford to take lightly."
Madhav Mantri, the finance minister, chimed in, "Your Majesty, trade could indeed benefit our treasury. With our bountiful harvests, establishing trade routes would alleviate our financial burdens and provide resources to support our officials."
Lakshmi Bai, a royal consort, added, "Reports from our spies indicate that the Dutch representatives might have returned earlier than expected as their is anger against Bhargav Samrajya in dutch camp, suggesting negotiations may have failed."
Emperor Tirumala Dev's interest piqued, "Perhaps there's an opportunity here. Royal Priest, what do the stars foretell?"
Ranga Pandit, with a serene smile, replied, "Your Majesty, the stars suggest that while challenges lie ahead, a glimmer of hope may soon illuminate our path."
Upon hearing these words, the Emperor's excitement surged, and he exclaimed, "Excellent, Timmarasu! Make haste in preparing a delegation to be dispatched to Bhargav Samrajya immediately."
Timmarasu's expression grew somber as he responded, "Your Majesty, we must assemble a distinguished royal delegation suitable for engaging with an imperial prince."
Meenakshi Devi, the Emperor's daughter, spoke up, "Father, permit me to lead the delegation. I am confident in my diplomatic skills and believe I can secure favorable outcomes for our empire."
Shyam Dev Raya, filled with concern, interjected, "But Father, the journey is perilous. Allow me to go instead. I cannot risk my sister's safety."
Mallapa Reddy's complexion turned pale as he voiced his disagreement, "Apologies for the interruption, Prince and Your Majesty. While the prince's concern is valid, we require his leadership in defense. The silence of the Dutch is concerning; they may be plotting something significant."
Lakshmi Bai suggested, "Your Majesty, perhaps Princess Meenakshi could travel north disguised as a man, accompanied by Marathi refugees and our royal guards posing as merchants. Local soldiers can provide escort, allowing us to disguise our surplus crop harvest as trade goods."
After contemplating for a moment, the Emperor addressed his son, "My son, you will one day ascend the throne. Remember this lesson: while I cherish my daughter dearly, my duty as Emperor supersedes all. Your safety is paramount to our empire's interests."
The prince reluctantly bowed his head, and the Emperor turned to his daughter, saying, "My dear daughter, I trust in your abilities. However, should circumstances take a turn for the worse, prioritize your safety above all else. I cannot bear to lose you."
Meenakshi replied with assurance, "I understand, Father. We will maintain regular communication via pigeon post. Please take care of yourself."
Satisfied with the arrangements, the Emperor instructed his prime minister, "Prepare the delegation for Bhargav Samrajya without delay."
** Same day Goa, in the military fort under Dutch stronghold**
In a lavishly decorated chamber, bathed in the gentle hues of the rising sun, three figures convened around a table strewn with maps depicting the sprawling expanse of South India. Among them was Jan van Linschoten, the distinguished admiral renowned for his exploits in the service of the Dutch East India Company. He addressed the assembled nobles of the Dutch Federation, including the Dukes of two influential provinces, who had convened for a critical discussion on strategy and allocation of resources.
"Your Excellencies," admiral Linschoten began, his voice resonating with authority, "the ambassador's dispatch has arrived via pigeon post. It appears that the Bhargav Samrajya poses a formidable obstacle to our northern ambitions, but it is not an immediate concern. Fortunately, they have yet to forge any military alliances with our intended targets."
Victor van Croy, the Duke of Brabant, offered a confident smile as he interjected, "These indigenous peoples possess nothing of true value, except for the richness of their lands. They pose no real challenge to our forces. Why not redirect our full efforts towards those hapless Vijay Nagar folks? Surely, they would prove to be easier targets."
Admiral Linschoten's expression faltered momentarily as he responded, "Forgive me, Your Excellency, but our attempts to engage the Vijay Nagar forces have been met with significant resistance. Their intimate knowledge of the terrain, coupled with their elusive guerrilla tactics, have halted our progress. Moreover, the formidable barriers presented by the two rivers have hindered the movement of our artillery. The Vijay Nagar forces have proven to be cunning adversaries, utilizing the cover of the dense forests to neutralize our firepower."
Pausing briefly to gauge the reactions of the Dukes, admiral Linschoten continued with reassurance, "Rest assured, Your Excellencies, we shall establish sturdy outposts and fortifications to safeguard our positions and ensure the uninterrupted flow of vital supplies."
Duke of Burgundy, Louis V, voiced his irritation, "Do not praise the enemy while making excuses. It's good you acknowledge your shortcomings. What's the plan?"
Admiral Linschoten responded politely, "My apologies, Your Grace. For Vijay Nagar, we will avoid the forested areas and establish local outposts. We'll strike when they're lured out into the open. This will take six months to fortify and bolster our defenses given the vast territory and limited manpower. Slaves from the East will be supplied. Afterward, we plan to invade the Madurai Sultanate in the south. They are isolated, and Vijay Nagar is in no position to offer assistance. Fortunately, the Portuguese are barred from their ports, as the natives are wary of them."
Duke Louis inquired, "Sounds good, but what about the north and east?"
Admiral Linschoten replied confidently, "We intend to eliminate the sultan of ahmed saltanate and install the first prince as a puppet ruler. He will serve our interests, and we'll use him to conquer other sultanates within six months. Meanwhile, our agents will establish trade routes and conduct land surveys. As for the risk posed by the Bhargav Samrajya, the foolish sultanates had no alliance with them, yet. Vijay Nagar can be dealt with from three sides later, and we can exploit the Bhargav Samrajya's own concerns later period."
Duke Croy interjected impatiently, "Why not just invade them? Our advanced matchlocks are superior, and they don't even use arquebuses. It shouldn't be difficult."
Struggling to contain his frustration, admiral Linschoten replied diplomatically, "Your Excellencies, everything would indeed be easier with more funds for cannons or flintlocks. Our budget is insufficient to conquer the entire land, and we must simultaneously attack the Madurai Sultanate. If we followed your plan, Your Excellency, they would unite against us for directly attacking the Ahmed Sultanate. Advanced weapons would be necessary for a head-on confrontation as its useless if it rains."
Duke Louis intervened decisively, "We are here to make money, not lose it. We support the plan, but flintlocks are out of the question. Take your time, you'll have our full backing, except for flintlocks. We agree to your terms."
Duke Croy added, "Once we establish our empire in Southern India, we will grant you your own duchy and title and the company will get more privilege and exclusive rights under your name."
At those words, Admiral Linschoten's eyes lit up with excitement. "Thank you, Your Grace. It's a pleasure doing business with you. Please accept a small gift from us for your valuable patronage."
He clapped his hands, and two beautiful Indian maids hesitantly entered the cabin, their eyes betraying reluctance and fear.
The two dukes exchanged a knowing smile as they raised their glasses of wine and took a sip, watching as the admiral exited, leaving them alone.
Duke Croy chuckled, "I take back my earlier words Louise. At least this place provide some entertainment."
Duke Louis , holding one of the girls by the hand, took another sip of wine and replied, "Shall we taste it together, or should I start first with this one?"
At his suggestion, Duke Croy set down his glass and approached the other girl. "Why not both at the same time? Let's see who lasts longer. The loser can only wait and watch in the next round, while the winner gets both for solo in second round."
With that, the cabin was filled with the sounds of laughter from the two men and the muffled pleas of the two girls, echoing throughout the room.