**The Last Stand of Sambhaji Maharaj**
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**Chapter 2: The Walls of Fate**
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The days following MC's arrival in the Maratha camp were a blur. He had slowly begun to adapt to his new surroundings, immersing himself in the life of a soldier. But beneath the surface, his mind was constantly racing. Time was running out, and he couldn't afford to waste a single moment. He had a mission—save Sambhaji Maharaj, no matter what it took.
MC had already gained the trust of a few key officers in the camp, primarily thanks to the system's Persuasion skill. His ability to speak with authority and confidence, despite his lack of experience, made him appear more seasoned than he actually was. But now, he was facing a greater challenge—gathering the critical information needed to protect the Maharaj.
One evening, while walking through the bustling camp, MC overheard a conversation between two higher-ranking officers. They spoke in hushed tones, but MC's sharp ears caught every word.
"They're closing in," one of the officers said, his voice tense. "The Mughal forces will strike tomorrow at dawn. Our scouts have confirmed that they're planning to ambush Sambhaji Maharaj while he's at the southern fort."
MC's stomach clenched. Tomorrow. The moment he had feared. This was it—the moment when history would take its dark turn if he didn't act fast.
He needed to get to the southern fort before the Mughal forces arrived. But he couldn't just walk in and warn Sambhaji Maharaj. It would raise suspicion. The last thing he needed was to be branded as a spy or an intruder.
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**System: Skill obtained – Stealth (Level 1).**
MC grinned. The system's skills were like a lifeline in this world, and this one was just what he needed. It was a small but useful ability, one that would help him move unnoticed through the camp and avoid raising alarms. He would need every advantage if he was going to succeed.
That night, he slipped out of the main camp, keeping to the shadows. The moon was high in the sky, and the camp was quiet, with most soldiers preparing for the battle ahead. MC's heart raced, but he remained calm, focusing on his breathing as he navigated through the maze of tents and soldiers.
The southern fort lay a few miles away, and MC knew that if he didn't make it there before dawn, the Mughals would be upon them, and all would be lost. His mind replayed the conversation he had overheard—Sambhaji Maharaj was going to be vulnerable, unprotected, and surrounded by enemies.
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As MC neared the southern fort, he could hear the sound of horses' hooves and the faint murmur of soldiers' voices. The fort was a massive structure, built into the side of a steep hill with tall stone walls and narrow entryways. It was a strategic location, one that would give Sambhaji Maharaj a vantage point over any potential attacks. But it also made the fort difficult to defend in the event of an ambush.
He approached cautiously, his heart beating faster with every step. He had to find a way to warn Maharaj without causing panic. As he reached the gates, he noticed a group of guards standing watch, their faces stoic and alert.
MC's pulse quickened. The guards didn't recognize him, but he knew that if they questioned him, his cover would be blown. He took a deep breath, focusing on the Stealth skill the system had granted him.
He stepped into the shadows, moving with precision, and silently slipped past the guards. His movements were so fluid that no one seemed to notice him, and soon, he was inside the fort, heading towards the central courtyard where he knew Sambhaji Maharaj would be.
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In the courtyard, Sambhaji Maharaj was seated on a raised platform, speaking with his advisors. The glow of a few torches illuminated his regal presence. Even in the dim light, MC could see the fierce determination in his eyes—the same fire that had once made him a warrior feared by the Mughal empire.
MC's heart pounded as he approached cautiously, making sure to stay out of view of the guards. He was so close, yet the moment felt surreal. This was it—the moment that could change history.
He waited until the advisors took their leave, and Sambhaji Maharaj was alone, lost in thought. Seizing the opportunity, MC moved forward, stepping into the light.
"Maharaj," MC called softly, bowing respectfully.
Sambhaji Maharaj's eyes snapped up, his expression initially wary but quickly shifting to one of recognition. "Who are you?" he asked, his voice commanding yet calm.
"I am—" MC paused, carefully considering his words. "A soldier in the Maratha army. I've come with urgent news, Maharaj."
Sambhaji Maharaj raised an eyebrow but gestured for MC to continue. "Speak quickly, then."
"The Mughals... they are planning to ambush this fort at dawn," MC said in a low voice, his eyes scanning the area to make sure no one else was listening. "I overheard their scouts talking. They intend to capture you, Maharaj."
A flicker of surprise crossed Sambhaji Maharaj's face, but it was quickly replaced by resolve. "You are certain of this?"
"I am. I've come to warn you, so we can prepare for the attack."
Sambhaji Maharaj's eyes narrowed. "And why would you risk your life to warn me? What do you gain from this?"
MC swallowed nervously but stood tall. "I do it because the empire needs you, Maharaj. The future of the Marathas lies with your leadership. If you fall today, the Mughal empire will crush us. I cannot let that happen."
Sambhaji Maharaj stared at him for a long moment, as though weighing his words. Finally, he nodded.
"Very well. We will prepare. But your words must be proven, and quickly. If this is a trick, you will not live to regret it."
MC's heart skipped a beat, but he nodded firmly. "I understand, Maharaj. Trust me."
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Within moments, the camp was alive with activity. Sambhaji Maharaj ordered his soldiers to mobilize, preparing for the potential attack. MC moved swiftly, helping to position soldiers along the fort's perimeter, organizing the defense. The hours before dawn felt like an eternity, each passing minute a reminder that time was running out.
As the first light of dawn broke over the horizon, the sounds of marching Mughal soldiers filled the air. The battle had begun.
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**End of Chapter 2.**