The room was shrouded in the dim embrace of night, the only light coming from a single, faintly glowing lantern placed on a small table near the window. The flickering flame cast long shadows across the room, creating an almost eerie atmosphere. The walls were draped in luxurious fabric.
Near the window, a figure was seated in a high-backed chair, their face hidden in the veil of darkness. The figure's, exuded an aura of authority. The only features discernible were the subtle rustle of fabric as they adjusted their position and the occasional glimmer reflecting off a piece of jewellery.
The Nakul, The independent Merchant and the third Prince's supposed "subordinate" stood across from the figure. His silhouette was partially illuminated by the lantern's soft glow. He was dressed in luxurious and yet simple attire.
"Master, I have come to report," Nakul's voice broke the heavy silence in the dimly lit room.
The figure seated near the window remained in the shadows. "What is it?" the voice cut through sharply.
"Prince Alfonso has followed your instructions and aligned himself with Bhairava," Nakul reported
"Hmm?" The figure's voice softened slightly, as though considering the news. "And what of Chandra?"
Nakul adjusted his stance. "Chandra has been busy preparing for Bhairava's impending attack. He's been discreetly acquiring weapons from various merchants and even negotiating with other kingdoms."
The figure leaned back slightly in their chair. "What of our plans?"
"It's close to finalization, Master," Nakul replied. "The arrangements are nearly complete. We could proceed with the next phase soon if you wish."
The figure remained silent for a moment, the gentle breeze flickering the flame casting shifting shadows that danced across the walls.
Finally, the figure spoke, their voice cutting through the thick silence. "Not yet. There is something coming up."
Nakul's curiosity was palpable. "What happened?"
The figure's voice was as cold as ice. "Some rats have been snooping around the Empire's borders for a while. First, we need to eliminate them."
Nakul's brow furrowed as he processed the information. "Oh, you mean the Kasim Sultanate assassins?"
"Kasim Sultanate? No," the figure corrected sharply. "The assassins are from the Yadavas. They are probably hunting down the exiled prince of Yadavas at the command of that baldie, Ravi Seuna."
Nakul's eyes widened in surprise. "What? But—"
"Do you doubt me and my ways, Nakul?" The figure interrupted, their voice taking on a sharper edge.
"No, Master," Nakul quickly replied, "I am simply curious how you knew it was the Yadavas."
The figure rubbed their chin in contemplation. "It is a matter of observation—places where the assassins have been seen, the timing of their activities, and the information from my own spies."
Nakul nodded, absorbing the explanation. "But, Master, do we have to waste time hunting them down?"
"Either way," the figure said, looking out of the window, "there is much more time needed for the final phase. Don't waste time. I am already preparing for the final part."
Nakul slightly bowed, recognizing the urgency. "Understood."
Nakul furrowed his brow and added. "Oh, by the way, there have been unusual movements from the youngest prince as well. Although his actions have been masked, we've discovered he's potentially made the Nayakas his ally. The Nayakas' heir went on a diplomatic visit a few days ago, It seems related. "
"Harsha? AHAHA," the figure chuckled with a darkly amused tone. "I have some plans for him—a special present to brighten up his gloomy little life."
Nakul tilted his head in intrigue. "Should we monitor him closely, Master?"
The figure waved their hand dismissively. "No need for that. My gift will be more than sufficient."
Nakul's curiosity grew. "What gift, Master?"
A cold smirk on their lips as they responded, "We will be sending some assassins as a present for him soon."
Nakul's eyes widened with concern. "Master, the prince might be only 17, but he is quite strong. His performance at the Gulbarga Battle was extraordinary."
The figure chuckled softly at Nakul's concern. "That's precisely why I will not dispatch my own squad against him."
Nakul, puzzled, asked, "Then who will handle the task?"
"Bhairava," the figure answered. "Who else?"
Nakul's confusion deepened. "What? But How?"
The figure leaned forward slightly. "We will leak information about Harsha gradually to Bhairava. Once Bhairava perceives him as a significant threat, he will inevitably take action. Bhairava does not wait; he reacts swiftly to any perceived danger."
Nakul nodded, absorbing the strategy. "But Master, the Third Prince won't be in favour of this plan."
The figure's laughter filled the room, a chilling sound that seemed to deepen the shadows. "HAHAHA, the Third Prince may not be on board, but his opposition is only if he finds out about this. I have more than enough tools to manipulate Bhairava and the others."
Nakul's scratched his head in contemplation. "So, the plan is to let Bhairava eliminate Harsha for us?"
"Not really," the figure confirmed. "It will be a test of Harsha's strength. Either way, the outcome is just for my own personal amusement partially along with assessing his threat level. If Harsha proves too strong, it will mean I have to change my approach, and if he fails, it removes a potential threat."
Nakul's eyes gleamed with a new understanding. "I see. And what of the Third Prince's reaction when he learns of this?"
The figure's laughter echoes through the room. "AHAHA, Let him react. His dissatisfaction doesn't concern me. There are always ways to keep him in check. Also, he knew this when he decided to come under me."
The figure finally added with a smirk "Although, I know Harsha will come out on top, That kid hid himself very well. Others underestimate him too much,"
"I see," Nakul responded with a grim expression. "Master, We will find out more about the Rats near the Border, Also Concubine Jyothi Laks-"
"I know about it, You may leave. I want to rest now," The figure interjected sharply, gazing at the twinkling night sky.
"Understood, Master." Nakul exited the Room after giving a slight bow.