Eternal Ashes: The Rise of Akhand Bharat

The anticipation in the palace was palpable as the British envoy's arrival drew near. Aryan spent the intervening hours strategizing with Meera and Dev in the guest quarters provided to them. His mind raced with possibilities, analyzing every scenario that could unfold in the meeting.

"This isn't just about convincing the Maharaja," Aryan said, pacing the room. "It's about demonstrating that we're capable of challenging the British, even here in their bastions of power."

Meera nodded, seated at the edge of a carved wooden chair. "The envoy will try to assert dominance, as they always do. But if you can turn the narrative, even subtly, the Maharaja might see the British for what they truly are—paper tigers."

Dev crossed his arms. "And what if the envoy calls for troops? The Maharaja won't risk his throne to shield us."

Aryan paused, his jaw tightening. "Then we show him that we're not just rebels. We're the future. And we'll protect him better than the British ever could."

---

The sound of horse hooves and the clattering of a carriage echoed through the palace courtyard as the British envoy arrived. Aryan and his companions watched from a balcony as a tall, slender man stepped out of the carriage, his crimson military uniform pristine, adorned with medals. His polished boots gleamed in the sunlight, and his sharp features carried an air of arrogance.

"Colonel Edmund Harper," Meera muttered. "A ruthless man, known for his brutal suppression of uprisings."

Aryan nodded, his expression unreadable. "Then he's exactly who we need to outmaneuver."

---

The meeting took place in the Maharaja's grand hall, a room adorned with intricate murals depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. Aryan stood to one side with Dev and Meera, observing as the Maharaja greeted Harper with forced politeness.

"Colonel Harper," the Maharaja said, gesturing for him to take a seat. "To what do I owe the pleasure of your visit?"

Harper removed his hat and offered a thin smile. "Your Highness, I bring an urgent request from the Crown. The Empire is engaged in a global conflict, and we require additional support from our loyal allies. Satgarh is a valuable asset, and we must ask for increased contributions—both in resources and manpower."

The Maharaja's expression remained calm, but Aryan could see the tension in his shoulders. "Colonel, Satgarh has already provided more than its share of resources for the war effort. My people are burdened, and my treasury stretched thin."

Harper's smile tightened. "I understand, Your Highness. However, the Crown does not ask lightly. Refusal to cooperate would be… regrettable."

---

Aryan stepped forward, drawing the attention of everyone in the room.

"Regrettable for whom, Colonel Harper?" he said, his voice steady and calm.

Harper turned to him, his eyes narrowing. "And you are?"

"A concerned citizen," Aryan replied, his gaze unwavering. "One who wonders why the Crown demands sacrifices from the very people it oppresses."

The tension in the room thickened. Harper's smile disappeared, replaced by a cold glare. "This is a matter between the Crown and His Highness. Your presence here is neither required nor welcome."

The Maharaja raised a hand, silencing Harper. "Aryan is my guest, and his insights are valuable. Please, continue."

Aryan inclined his head in gratitude before addressing Harper. "You speak of loyalty, Colonel, but what has the Crown done to earn it? The people of Satgarh toil under your taxes, their young men sent to fight wars that do not concern them. And when they ask for justice, they are met with the lash and the gun."

Harper's jaw tightened. "The Empire provides order and prosperity. Without it, your people would descend into chaos."

"Order?" Aryan countered. "Or subjugation? Prosperity for whom—the Crown, or the common man who starves in the fields?"

The Maharaja leaned forward, his interest piqued. Harper, however, was not so easily swayed.

"You speak boldly for someone with no authority," Harper said, his tone icy. "Perhaps you should focus on your own affairs before meddling in matters beyond your station."

---

Aryan smiled faintly. "Authority is earned, Colonel, not imposed. And the Crown's authority is crumbling because it was built on exploitation, not respect."

The room fell silent. Harper's face was a mask of barely contained anger, but Aryan did not waver.

The Maharaja broke the silence. "Colonel Harper, Aryan raises valid concerns. My people's welfare is my foremost priority, and I must consider their needs before the Crown's demands."

Harper stood abruptly, his chair scraping against the marble floor. "Your Highness, I must remind you of the consequences of defiance. The Crown does not tolerate insubordination."

The Maharaja's expression darkened. "And I must remind you, Colonel, that Satgarh is a sovereign state. I will decide what is best for my kingdom."

---

As Harper stormed out of the hall, Aryan felt a glimmer of hope. But the Maharaja's gaze turned to him, sharp and questioning.

"You handled yourself well, Aryan," he said. "But you've made an enemy of a powerful man. What will you do when he retaliates?"

Aryan met his gaze. "Fight. With your help, if you're willing. Without it, if I must."

The Maharaja regarded him for a long moment before nodding. "You have courage, Aryan. And perhaps… you have a vision worth fighting for. I will consider your proposal."