Originally posted by: ramsha_001I loved CGM-Ashok's dream sequence, I didn't see it coming.This was absolutely beautifully written and the emotion in it was incredible. Not only was the whole war sequence done very well, but I absolutely love how you brought the ujjaini army.You fill your chapters with such rich details which makes it even more very thrilling. It's really good to see Ashok, the Samrat is fighting it out with his loyal supporters/Army.
The end sequence was a total *Ashoka hai, Ashoka* moment !Your updates always leave me begging for more. Please update soon.
Originally posted by: babur1527Chapter 2: The flaw in the Plan
Later that night.
The small flames from the torches were flickering ominously in the corridors of the palace of Patliputra. The guards were diligently patrolling every corner keeping an eye out for any abnormalities. The royal family has been attacked far too many times now. The security of Magadh was on high alert.
The guards bowed as two people walked by.
Rajkumar Ashok was walking with Rajkumari Ahankara still carrying her brother in his arms. Ashok gave a curt nod to the guards who then resumed their patrolling.
Ashok looked into the curious eyes of the little boy who was pulling his chain. The boy looked up at Ashok and started smiling. His face was so innocent. So precious. So full of life. Ashok returned the smile and thought to himself, this is how his Ma must feel like when she looks at him.
Reasons for smiling was hard to come by for Ashok these days. In such a short time he lost two very important people in his lives. Acharya Akramak. And Acharya Chanakya. He had also lost the trust of his younger brother who has been such a good friend ever since he came here. Ashok's smile faded. He felt a soft hand touch his shoulder. He turned to see Ahankara looking at him intently. Ashok forced a smile. Ahankara did the same. They said nothing and continued walking.
Ashok knew that his pain was nothing compared to what Ahankara went through the past few months. Ashok felt like hitting himself. How could he be so blind to Sushim's cruelty? He is the same person that used to torture little children in the most sadistic manner possible. He is the same person that tried to kill him. Not once. Not twice. But repeatedly ever since he came to Patliputra.
Ashok tried to honor his mother's wishes of trying to get along with his brother. But he should have known better. His mother didn't know the truth. And there was a part of Ashok that suspected that Sushim had a hand in killing Chanakya. As unreasonable as it was, Ashok couldn't shake that feeling.
Speak of the rakshas and he arrives. Ashok thought to himself as his elder brother sauntered into view.
Ashok and Sushim halted before each other. Both of them looking at the other with pure loathing.
"So the tuchprani is the babysitter now." Sushim sneered.
"What are you talking about Bhrata?" Ashok said in mock surprise. "I was always the babysitter. I have been babysitting your tantrums all this time, haven't I?"
Sushim scowled darkly. He muttered through clenched teeth. "Listen you tuchprani. Have all the fun you want. You won't be returning from Taxilla. And you," Sushim growled turning to Ahankara, "Just wait till I become Samrat. I will deal with you then."
Ashok instinctively tried to shield Ahankara. But Ahankara stepped forward her brows furrowed with anger.
"If you become Samrat that is." Ahankara said in a quiet tone. "You have no power anymore Sushim. You are lucky that your father loves you so much. So much that he is blind to all your misdeeds. Maybe someone should tell him everything about what you did around here in his absence. Maybe that will open his eyes."
Sushim's glare faltered for a moment. "You have no proof."
"Ashok and I are proof enough." Ahankara replied. "Rani Dharma will also attest for us."
Sushim looked around nervously to see if anyone overheard them. He glared at Ahankara and advanced towards her. Ashok stepped in between them. He handed Ahankara's brother to her and turned towards Sushim. The two brothers glared at one another menacingly. It looked as if a fight was about to break out between them once again.
"You know your father might walk by any moment." Ahankara taunted.
Sushim shifted his eyes towards Ahankara. His hands were shaking with rage. After a moment he seemed to change his mind as he stormed off without another word.
Ashok turned towards Ahankara mildly surprised. "What was that about?"
"If you are not going to tell your father everything about what Sushim did." Ahankara said, "Might as well make the most of what we know in other ways." Ahankara finished with a furtive smile.
Ashok chuckled. "Yeah. Why not?"
The two then walked towards Ahankara's room.
After Ashok helped Ahankara put her brother to sleep, Yashevsri came in to tell him that Radhagupt was calling for him.
"I am coming." Ashok said. Yashevsri nodded and left.
"Ashok." Ahankara said as Ashok prepared to leave, "You are leaving for Taxilla tomorrow?"
"Yes." Ashok replied quietly.
"Take care of yourself." Ahankara said. "I know you will succeed in liberating Taxilla."
"Dhanyavad." Ashok replied. Ashok turned to leave but paused. He turned towards Ahankara and walked up to her. Ashok could see Ahankara take a sharp intake of breath as he drew closer. A light blush spread across her face. Ashok's heart skipped a beat. Ashok remembered what Ahankara said to him a few weeks ago. Ashok knew well enough what Ahankara felt for him. Many including Ahankara assumed that he reciprocated those feelings. But he didn't exactly lie to her when she visited him in prison. However now that his Bhrata was no longer engaged to her circumstances have changed.
Even so Ashok felt a bit guilty for what he was about to ask of her. He has no doubt that she will do it even if she didn't want to. For his sake.
"Please keep an eye on my Ma." Ashok said quietly. "Before Acharya Chanakya died, he said that she still has enemies here in the palace. And they will no doubt try to harm her in my absence."
Ahankara looked into Ashok's eyes. Ashok already knew the answer before she said it.
"I will do it Ashok. Don't worry." Ahankara paused, drawing even closer to Ashok. "I have been hearing some awful rumors about Taxilla. Please be careful."
Ashok suppressed the urge to take her into his arms. To reassure her that he was going to be fine. Instead he briefly grasped her shoulder and then turned to leave. Ahanakara called him. Ashok turned towards her. She looked ethereal with the diya around her. Ashok couldn't help but marvel.
"Come back soon." Ahankara said smiling radiantly.
Ashok grinned. "I will be back before you know it."
On the other side of the palace
Radhagupt was pacing in his room. Thoughts brewing like a storm his mind. The Taxilla situation was very delicate. If the Mauryan army headed by the Rajkumar, who was also the Maha Yoddha, was defeated, then it will seriously damage the prestige of Magadh. It didn't matter how old Ashok was. To confound matters even more his Guptchar just informed him that Rakshas Acharya has escaped.
Radhagupt knew this was going to happen eventually. Chanakaya's death has weakened the spy network. However Radhagupt hoped to avoid that problem for now. Especially since the Taxilla crisis had reared its head.
Acharya Chanakya taught Radhagupt many things. The most important thing was winning when it mattered. And Radhagupt couldn't let Ashok lose at this crucial juncture.
"Acharya."
Radhagupt turned to see Ashok standing before him. His eyes focused. Looks like Ashok knew what Radhagupt wanted to discuss about. He looked towards Yashervsri who stood behind Ashok. He raised his eyebrow. Yashevrsi nodded to indicate that there were no spies around. Radhagupt dismissed her with a curt nod.
Radhagupt then turned and sat down on what used to be Acharya Chanakya's spot. He suppressed his unease. "Take a seat Ashok." Radhagupt said. Ashok sat down waiting for Radhagupt to speak.
"Don't go by the Samurdra Marg." Radhagupt said bluntly. Ashok raised his eyebrows.
"Why-?" Ashok protested. Radhagupt put his hand up. Ashok paused.
"It is too risky." Radhagupt continued. "I know you are trying to use the elements of stealth and surprise. But trust me. You are leading a large army. There is no stealth and surprise with the method you are pursuing. Samudra Bhraman are always complicated, unpredictable and dangerous. Depends a lot on the weather. And if you are attacked by Yunani mercenaries or even pirates, let's just say things can turn ugly. The Magadh Sena are not good at naval combat."
Ashok folded his arms as he absorbed his Acharya's words.
"No matter how much you try. You can't hide the fact that you are leading Magadh's army by sea. But nonetheless I had a feeling that our conversation with Samrat was overheard by someone. A guptchar of mine confirmed it a few hours ago. Your yojna is no longer a secret." Ashok was flabbergasted.
"Whose spy was it?" Ashok managed to say after a while. Radhagupt heaved a sigh that indicated his frustration.
"I cannot say for sure. But rest assured that whoever it was, he was no well wisher of yours." Radhagupt pulled the drawer on Chanakya's table. He brought out a parchment. "Worst case scenario," Radhagupt said spreading the parchment on the table. "They will inform Keechak and try to have you killed before you reach Taxilla."
Ashok saw that the parchment contained a map.
"Taxilla is very close to the Yunani region." Radhagupt said pointing Ashok towards the map. "There is a good chance that Keechak is backed by the Yunani."
Ashok quietly looked at the map. "Acharya are you saying that there is no way I cannot avoid getting attacked?"
"Yes." Radhagupt nodded. "We should not even try to fight the Yunani at sea. We can't beat them at naval warfare. Trust me when I say that. Acharya Chanakya always told me about the Yunani superiority at sea. It was one of the reasons why your Pithamha Chandragupt signed that treaty with Selucus."
Ashok rubbed his forehead. "Acharya can I ask you something?"
"Yes?" Radhagupt replied.
"Do you think that the other Yunani were involved with Rajkumar Justin's conspiracy?"
"Of course they were." That is what Radhagupt wanted to say. But he couldn't. Radhagupt knew whom Ashok was referring to. He knew full well that if he tells Ashok everything, he will realize the truth about the Yunani. Not only regarding the true nature of Lakshagraha conspiracy. But Acharya Chanakya's murder as well. Radhagupt wasn't certain but he knew they played a role in his Acharya's death. But unlike him Ashok might give in to his emotions and go after them. And right now Ashok wasn't ready to take on the Rajmata. Not when she was held in such high esteem by the Samrat and the Praja.
"Possibly." Radhagupt said carefully. He decided to divert the topic. "But right now. You should focus on Keechak and Taxilla." Ashok stared at Radhagupt. Radhagupt could tell Ashok wasn't content with his answer.
"Tell me Acharya. How do I deal with Keechak?" Ashok said hesitantly after a moment.
"As you have already realized, one way or another whether it be on land or sea, you will be attacked. However your chances are better on land." Radhagupt spoke making sure Ashok grasped his every word. "Keechak at the moment is very powerful. And with Samrat Bindusar not being able to go there, he has all the more reason to feel confident. Acharya Chanakya told me about Samrat Bindusar's fight with Keechak. It was a very close battle. Keechak had nearly killed Samrat. But in the end luck favored us. And the crisis was dealt with."
Ashok didn't say anything but stared at the map. Radhagupt continued.
"The Taxilla crisis is bigger than just some sadistic tyrant terrorizing the Praja. If we don't beat him, the Akhandata of Bharat will come under threat."
Ashok's eyes widened.
"Other rebel movements will be inspired by Keechak's victory. They might even ally with him." Radhagupt continued. "There is a reason Samrat Bindusar is sending Magadh's army there to deal with him. Taxilla is the gateway to Magadh."
Radhagupt took a quill and a new parchment. He started writing something.
"From what I remember about what Acharya told me, Keechak is not just a warrior like Dastaan was."
Ashok clenched his fist. He remembered the fights he had with Dastaan, the powerful Khurasani Sardar. He was nearly killed in every one of those fights. Ashok's palms felt cold with sweat. Yes Ashok killed him. But he was fueled by blind range thinking that Dastaan was the one that murdered Chanakya. Ashok knew very well if he met Dastaan right now he can't repeat that feat.
"He is strong and cunning as a warrior. He is ruthless. He is sadistic. And he is a shrewd individual well versed with Kutniti." Radhagupt said as he finished writing. "He is what Sushim could be if your elder brother ever manages to becomes Samrat." Radhagupt looked squarely at Ashok as he folded the parchment.
"Ashok." Radhagupt said. "You are incredibly strong for your age. However there are warriors out there who are stronger and more skilled than you. Not to mention more experienced in combat and leading battles. Like your pitaji Samrat Bindusar. And," Radhagupt put the parchment back in the drawer. "Keechak."
Radhagupt stood up.
"Ideally. Akramak was the one who should have been sent to Taxilla." Ashok felt the dull pain in his heart again. Radhagupt clenched his fist. "But now we have to make the best of what we have."
Radhagupt turned towards Ashok. "I have drawn out a plan for you. If everything goes well enough we will have Keechak in chains by the time you are done."
Ashok stood up. It has been a while since he felt this. He felt the assuring calmness of Chanakya in Radhagupt's words.
"What do you want me to do Acharya?" Ashok asked. Radhagupt folded his hands behind him.
"Before you leave tomorrow," Radhagupt said quietly. "Spar with Samrat Bindusar after he does the Surya Namaskar." Ashok was taken aback. "And tell him not to hold back. Make sure he doesn't hold back." Radhagupt said very seriously.
Ashok looked at Radhagupt incredulously. Why did he want Ashok to fight his father before he left?
"I will tell you after you spar with him." Radhagupt said before Ashok could voice his thoughts.
"Go now. Get some sleep. You have a long day tomorrow."
Ashok touched Radhagupt's feet and pressed his hands together in respect. "Yes Acharya."
"Kalyan Namaastu." Radhagupt said patting Ashok's head. Ashok stood up and walked out.
Radhagupt moved towards the window. The moon was shining brightly tonight after a long while. He stared into the quiet city. The soft breeze was calming. Radhagupt looked out to forest that lead to the mountains. It was a peaceful scenery. Taxilla must be quiet too right now. Except for the screams of those who are being tortured by Keechak. Radhagupt gripped the window rail.
"I will not let Ashok lose no matter what. Kadap hi nahi."
To be continued...
Originally posted by: musicndance2Babur!!!👏👏👏 I m really aadheer for the next part😛
You also have ticked my creative nerve😆Presenting this for you
Originally posted by: MaddyOWOW 👏👏👏
This is really fantastic writing. You have a way with words, you make it seem like one is there inside that room with Ashok & Ahan or Ashok & RG watching the scene unfold. You make the characters come alive.
If only we got CAS like this.
Why are CVs so one dimensional? They think the only way to write is overdose of vamps and villains and heroes have to be goody two shoes self sacrificing unreal people.
CVs make everything so predictable and boring.
I hope you have given a foxy RG plotting for Ashok in chapters ahead. 😆
Babur I really hope CVs read this and include in CAS.
Chapter 10:https://www.indiaforums.com/forum/post/130857338A/N: Dedicated to Niki, Ramsha, Gargi, Mac, Khushi, Shailusri, Vidhya and Shelly. My dedicated readers and sources of inspiration.
Also Rohini, Medha, Krystal and Kaana. Old loyal CAS viewers who loved Chanakya niti just as much as me.
And finally my bros BB and Shyam who love Dharma and PS more than me. 😆
In the isolated garden of Patliputra, Charumitra and Helena were resting on divan basking in the morning sun. Each one of them lost in their thoughts. Helena was humming in serenity. While Charumitra was fuming. Her argument with Dharma had her seething.
Charumitra was observing Dharma who was looking towards the Samrat and Subrasi. They were walking through the corridor with Siyamak and Drupad in tow. Charumitra felt immense satisfaction watching the scene before her eyes. She walked towards her rival.
"Subrasi is spending a lot of time with Samrat." She simpered. "Looks like he is getting tired of you Rani Dharma. At this rate even Drupad might become the Samrat before your son."
Dharma turned towards her. She was smiling. More than anything it was her smile that unsettled Charumitra.
"Only you could think like that Maharani Charumitra." Dharma said calmly.
"Matlab?" Charumitra asked with an arched eyebrow.
"He is Subrasi's husband too." Dharma said simply. "If Samrat gives Subrasi the rights she deserves then that indicates that the Samrat is fulfilling his duty as a husband."
Charumitra scoffed.
"And he has the heart of a Samrat." Dharma continued. "His heart big enough to love all of us. It's a shame some people do not follow his example"
"Is that a jab at me?" Charumitra snapped.
"I was talking about Noor." Dharma smirked. "But I guess the reality of my words apply to those who are like her." Charumitra had enough. She turned around and begun walking away.
"And as for Ashok becoming the Uttaradhikari," Dharma said as Charumitra walked away. "He can do it on his own. He doesn't need his mother to do his job for him."
Charumitra gripped the armrest of the divan trying to calm herself. How dare she?
And now she just heard that Dharma is pregnant. We have barely removed one pest and another is already on the way.
"Lost in thoughts Maharani?" Rajmata Helena asked. Charumitra ignored her. Helena smiled knowingly.
"Don't worry. There is no guarantee that Dharma will be able to give birth to her son. Is there?" Helena smiled. "Accidents can happen." Charumitra finally felt her nerves calm down. Her lips curled into a smile.
"But of course."
"And I presume we will be receiving some good news soon." Helena said in sing song voice as a guard was rushing towards them. Charumitra's smile widened. It's about time.
Siyamak was sitting on the ledge of his window. After what seemed like a long while he didn't feel depressed. Or angry. He felt almost happy. His family seemed to be spending a lot of time trying to cheer him up. And it was working. Now that Rajmata Helena didn't hound him anymore. Siyamak smiled looking out to the sky. Yesterday he sparred with his Pitaji. It was the most fun he had in a while. His mother would have been pleased.
Siyamak didn't feel the pain anymore thinking about his mother. Not as much anymore anyway. He remembered his Ma Dharma's words.
We remember people for the good deeds they did in life. Your Pitaji remembers the good things his Bhrata Justin did. That is why he mourns for him. One bad deed does not wash away a lifetime of good deeds.
Siyamak felt comfort in those words. After a long time it was so refreshing be in a company that festered love and warmth. Siyamak continued smiling. Flags in the distance caught his eye. Siyamak suddenly felt unease creep into his mind. It was the army of Magadh. They were supposed to be with his Bhrata Ashok. What are they doing here?
Radhagupt's eyes were pulsing with fury. The guptchar before him cowered.
"What do you mean? He is dead?" Radhagupt said through gritted teeth.
"Senapati Sudheshan has returned." The guptchar said nervously. "They said that Rajkumar Ashok and most of the Sena were killed in a battle."
"NO!" Radhagupt shouted. No. Not Ashok too. After everything we did, Ashok cannot die!
Ishwari walked towards Radhagupt. She moved her hand towards him nervously.
"Sabhi Bharmin ko suchit karo!" Radhagupt snarled. Ishwari pulled her hand back and bowed. She quickly left the room. The other guptchar followed her out. Radhagupt clenched his fist. Mahamatya you are done for!
Siyamak ran past the guard. He didn't believe him. No. It can't be. Not Bhrata Ashok!
He dashed through the corridors. The world seem to slow around him. Memories of his brother flashed before his eyes.
'I can never lose with a friend like you.' Ashok said pulling him into an embrace.
'We will defeat Rajkumar Sushim. You and me together.' Ashok grunted as he pulled Siyamak through the terrain.
Siyamak fought back the tears. You can't die!
Siyamak burst into the throne room which was filled with people. Siyamak walked between the crowd who who stood apart making space for him. Siyamak brushed past Subhao and Vasunandan who were struck with grief. Ahankara was at her seat looking at the scene, her face stricken with fear.
Siyamak looked towards where Ahankara was was looking. And he saw Senapati Sudheshan kneeling before his Pitaji as he handed over the blood stained Mudra of the Mauryans. The Mudra that his Bhrata took with him. His Bhrata Sushim and Mahamatya Khalnatak were beside his father. Their expressions were unreadable. Bindusar had a stony expression on his face. But his eyes burning with rage. Ahankara covered her mouth trying to suppress her scream as tears fell down her face.
"Stand up Senapati." Bindusar said quietly. Sudheshan stood up avoiding Bindusar's eyes. Bindusar whacked him. Sudheshan fell on the ground with a thud. Subhao only looked on in disgust.
Bindusar turned towards Mahamatya Khalnatak.
"What kind of a spineless trash have you appointed Mahamatya?!" Bindusar roared. "What kind of a Senapati deserts his Sena? What kind of Senapati abandons his Rajkumar?!"
"But Samrat-." Khalnatak said hesitantly. Sushim swallowed nervously. He never saw his father this angry before.
"I DO NOT WANT EXCUSES!" Bindusar was shaking with rage. "MAHAMATYA YOUR IDIOCY HAS COST ME MY SON!"
Khalnatak was terrified into absolute silence. Bindusar carried on his tirade.
No. No. NO. Siyamak collapsed to the ground. Vasunandan and Subhao tried to pull him up. But they couldn't move him.
Meanwhile in Devi Dharma's room.
"Dear I know this is a shock. But you must hold yourself together." Helena said quielty trying to hide her smile. Charumitra and Helena had walked to Dharma's room to give her the bad news. But Subrasi seems to have beaten them to it. Oh well.
"Yes. You must hold yourself together Rani Dharma." Charumitra crooned extending her hand towards her. Dharma swatted it away.
"Save the drama for someone who would believe it! I know very well how much you care for Ashok!" Dharma said fiercely. "And as for Ashok being killed, I don't believe this nonsense! Ashok is alive! He will not die before he fulfills his destiny!" Dharma said standing up.
"You two please leave." Subrasi intervened before Helena protested. "I don't need you to aggravate her any further."
Charumitra clenched her hands and grind her teeth with anger. Helena smiled and nodded. She pulled Charumitra out of the room.
Helena could no longer hide her smile. She felt absolutely elated. Deny it all you want to Dharma. It won't change the truth.
Back in the throne room.
"Prepare the Sena now. I will kill Keechak with my own hands!" Bindusar shouted. Sudheshan was kneeling before Bindusar battered and bruised. Siyamak was sitting beside a sobbing Ahankara, his face faced buried in his hands.Subhao and Vasunandan next to him.
"No Pitaji!" Sushim said in faux anger. "If anyone will avenge Ashok it will be his elder brother!" Vasunandan looked at Sushim with disgust. Kya nautanki hai.
"No Rajkumar Sushim. I am not going to lose another son! It was a mistake to send Ashok to begin with. And I don't want to repeat it." Bindusar snapped. Khalnatak looked at the proceedings with unease. Samrat Bindusar was not breaking down as Rajmata Helena predicted he would.
Radhagupt had walked in with the other Brahmins. Khalnatak saw that his gaze was trained towards him. The Mahamatya of Magadh felt uneasy. The gaze from Chanakya's student was unsettling. No, it was frightening.
"Samrat!" A guard called. "A messenger has brought some important news!"
Bindusar turned to see the messenger walk into view. Everyone eyes fell on the messenger.
"Pranam Samrat. Rajkumar Ashok has sent you a message."
Bindusar's rage died down while Sushim and Mahamatya looked at one another in shock. Vasunandan and Subhao expressions turned to joy. Ahankara stopped crying. Siyamak looked up as Bindusar moved past them. Everyone stood apart for the Samrat as he ran towards the messenger.
"He is-he is alive?" Bindusar said his voice strained. The messenger knelt before him.
"Yes Samrat. Rajkumar Ashok had saved the Magadh army from the jaws of death after Senapati Sudheshan deserted us." The messenger extended a scroll towards him. Bindusar took the scroll and rolled it open. He began reading out loud.
"Pranam Samrat,
We are alive and well. We have survived the ferocious attacks of our enemy despite Senapati Sudheshan's betrayal. The timely arrival of the Ujjaini Sena saved us. However Rajkumar Ashok is injured. He will recover soon. We are regrouping at Assandh.
Your loyal Senanayak.
Aadarsh."
The courtroom was silent. Everyone was looking towards the Samrat expectantly. Siyamak smiled with relief. Ahankara's joy new no bounds. Acharya Rudra. Thank you.
Vasunandan looked elated. Subhao however was seething with rage. He turned towards his father. He started moving towards him before Vasunandan stopped him. Bindusar walked past them and stood before Sudheshan who was shell-shocked.
"I hereby dismiss Senapati Sudheshan from his post. And I issue the order to imprision him. He will be tried for Rajdhroh." Bindusar said quietly. Khalnatak saw the rage in Samrat's eyes. He gulped down his nervousness. All this will be pinned on me.
Sushim too was furious. But for a different reason. Ujjaini Sena? Does that mean.
Radhagupt saw Sushim's gaze shift towards Ahankara. Radhagupt felt uneasy. He could not have Sushim targeting Ahankara again. He had to distract him. Radhagupt racked his head. He suddenly had an idea. It was worth a shot.
"The Ujjaini Sena had reinforced us. Why?" Acharya Dwejendra asked.
"I have the same question." Bindusar asked turning towards the messenger. Radhagupt spoke up.
"Samrat." Radhagupt began, "Mahamatya Khalnatak asked me to send a letter to the governors of Ujjain requesting reinforcements. Mahamatya suspected that the enemy had bribed some of our Sena. But he wasn't sure who. So he came up with this Yojna to safeguard Rajkumar Ashok."
Mahamatya was thunderstruck. Everyone's gaze shifted to the Mahamatya. Bindusar finally calmed down.
"Is that so Mahamatya?" Bindusar asked pleasantly surprised. Khalnatak glanced at Sushim uneasily. Radhagupt smirked. Let's see Khalnatak. How precious is the post of Mahamatya to you.
Khalnatak swallowed and then said, "Y-yes. Samrat. I asked Acharya Radhagupt to send a letter to Ujjain requesting reinforcements." Bindusar nodded as he broke into a smile. Sushim who stood behind him looked livid.
"Forgive me Mahamatya for doubting you." Bindusar replied. "It was a good thing that you sought reinforcements from Ujjain. You have done well."
The Brahmins murmured in agreement.
"It seems like your governors are making progress Mahamatya." Acharya Grinath said approvingly. Khalnatak could only smile wryly as Sushim fumed.
Ahankara looked at the turn of events with increasing interest. Acharya Radhagupt. Why?
"How is Rajkumar Ashok?" Bindusar asked the messenger.
"He is recovering sire." The messenger replied. "It was a grueling battle."
Bindusar sighed. He wanted to go and see Ashok. But he couldn't leave Patliputra right now. His Sena was bribed so easily. It wasn't possible without inside help. An insignificant worm like Sudheshan could never have the guts to do it by himself. Bindusar needed to find those traitors.
The throne room was buzzing.
"The Sabha ends here." Bindusar said loudly. I need to go tell Dharma the news.
Bindusar turned around and left and the room. The rest followed suit. Khalnatak almost ran out of the room with Sushim close behind whose hands were gripped around his sword. Siyamak was walking with Vasunandan and an upset Subhao. Ahankara quickly walked up to Radhagupt.
"Acharya. Why?" Ahankara whispered. Radhagupt shushed her.
"This is not the place to discuss this." He said quietly. "I will meet you later."
Ahankara nodded and left. Radhagupt followed the Brahmins to their meeting room to discuss the recent developments.
Radhagupt was smiling, content with how the day has turned around. The initial phases were complete. The words of his Acharya now ringing in this mind.
Saam Daam Daand Bhed.
Sushim threw Mahamatya Khalnatak against the wall.
"YOU TRAITOR!" Sushim screamed. His face was contorted with rage.
"Yuvraj. I have nothing to do with this." Khalnatak said pleadingly. "Trust me I have nothing to do with this!"
"You think I am a fool?" Sushim growled. "You think I don't understand anything? I know what is going on. From the beginning of this Taxilla mess you were with Ashok. I know why. You don't like how I do things Mahamatya. You think that I could kill you if you mess up? Just like the others?" Sushim said threateningly.
Khalnatak gulped. He was terrified beyond his wits. Just like every other time when Yuvraj Sushim turned his sword towards him.
"I was trying to protect you from Keechak." Khalnatak said weakly "Yuvraj, I got Chanakya killed on your orders. Ashok's biggest strength. Why would you think I would betray you."
"Yes." Sushim rasped drawing his sword. "Yes." He turned towards Khalnatak, his eyes were inhuman. "You killed Chanakya. But for your own reasons. To take his place at Ashok's side."
"No Yuvraj. It is nothing like that." Khalnatak said desperately.
"It is exactly like that Mahmatya." Sushim said with a menacing smile. "You want to be the man that will surpass Chanakya. And you can only do that when you place the strongest candidate on the throne. I know how your mind works Mahamatya."
Khalnatak gulped. "I swear Yuvraj it is nothing like that. I swear on my life."
"Promises from a man such as you means nothing." Sushim said turning around. "Doesn't matter though. I no longer need you anyway. I can ascend the throne on my own." Khalnatak's eyes widened.
"Yuvraj please." Khalnatak pleaded. Sushim turned his sword towards him.
"Drop the act Mahamatya. The only reason you still live is because you have helped me build my Sena and obtained the wealth to sustain them. I am grateful to you for that." Sushim said sheathing his sword. "However I can no longer trust you. I have already issued the order that my private army and my governors are not to accept any orders from you anymore."
Khalnatak opened his mouth to speak. But no sound came out.
"You may go Mahamatya." Sushim said quietly.
"But-" Khalnatak squeaked.
"Get out of my sight!" Sushim shouted. Khalnatak ran out of the room.
Khalnatak walked through the corridors of the palace. He didn't know what to do. The strange turn of events has thrown him into a conundrum. He dug his nails into his palm. That Radhagupt.
Khalnatak placed his hands on the rails. Deep down in Khalnatak's mind he had feeling that this was bound to happen sooner or later. Rajkumar Sushim was unpredictable. And his temper made him dangerous. However he had invested in him too much already. A gamble that he was now coming to regret.
"Everything alright Mahamatya?" It was Subhao and Vasunandan.
"I know it was you who instigated my father to betray Rajkumar Ashok." Subhao said angrily.
"You have no proof." Khalnatak scoffed. "And why would I betray Rajkumar Ashok. I saved his life."
"Quit with the nautanki." Vasunandan snapped. "We all know you are last person in the world to care about Rajkumar Ashok. And as for proof, we will find it. Sooner or later you will pay for what you did Mahamatya. Come on Subhao."
Khalnatak could do nothing except watch the sons of the nobles walk away from him. He had no response to their accusations.
He had nowhere to go. He felt his shoulders slump.
Radhagupt observed Khalnatak from afar with great satisfaction. His gambit had paid off better than he expected it to. He had isolated Khalnatak from Sushim. That is one obstacle out of the way.
Radhagupt turned around and started walking towards Ahankara's room. There were answers he owed to the Queen of Ujjain.
Ahankara is a very powerful ally of Ashok now. But a vulnerable one because of her inexperience. The extent of her power needs to remain hidden until she is ready to wield it.
In Devi Dharma's room
Bindusar was lying in the bed with Dharma who was draped over him. Bindusar slowly stroked her back.
"I thought I had lost him for a few moments." Bindusar croaked.
Dharma looked up at him. "You had no reason to think like that Samrat. Nothing can kill Ashok until he fulfills his destiny."
Bindusar finally smiled. "I wish I had your optimism Rani Dharma. I have lost so many people this year."
Dharma looked into Bindusar's eyes. "I understand how you feel Samrat. But you must not let these troubles get to your mind. You must remain strong. Otherwise we will all fall apart."
Bindusar smiled. He pulled Dharma closer and kissed her forehead. "I won't. Not as long as I have you by side." Dharma blushed and rested her head on Bindusar's chest. The two of them simply lay there, both thinking about their son.
"I want to go." Dharma said quietly. "He needs me."
Bindusar sighed. "So do I Rani Dharma. But we have our duties here."
Dharma looked up. "You have your duties here. Not me." Bindusar pulled her close to him. His face inches from hers. Dharma looked into Bindusar's eyes, her blush deepening.
"And I cannot do it without you." Bindusar said firmly. "Let our son do his duties. He had your undivided attention for fourteen years. Now you need to pay attention to your husband." Dharma giggled and rested her forehead on Bindusar's.
"Is that so?" Dharma said coyly.
"Of course." Bindusar smirked wrapping his arms around her.
Outside.
Charumitra walked away from Dharma's room. She felt her temper rising. The day was not going as she expected it to. First, the ambush had failed to kill Ashok. Now it turns out the Mahamatya was conspiring against Sushim. The Samrat was with Dharma. And now these lowly guards had refused to let her inside. She, the Maharani of Magadh was refused by lowly guards.
Charumitra strode into her room and took out her black box. She had enough. It was time to destroy Dharma.
Charumitra felt a shiver run up her spine as she opened her box. There was a parchment inside.
"Tread with care Maharani."
That's all that was written there. Charumitra swallowed. Her hands were shaking. Someone knows. But who?
3 Nights later in Assandh.
Ashok was sitting on his bed panting heavily. Not because of the dull pain in his chest. But another nightmare. Ashok gripped the sheets. He threw his legs over the side of the bed. He got up berating himself for his stupidity as he winced in pain. Acharya Radhagupt and his Pitaji had warned him for scenarios like this. And he still got himself hurt. He almost got his Sena annihilated. And to confund matters even more he had lost the Mudra.
He grabbed a pitcher and poured himself a glass of water. Ashok looked towards the window. It was nightfall. He pulled the glass up and gingerly drank the cool water as his chest throbbed with pain. The Vaid had said the pain will last for weeks. But thankfully it was nothing serious.
Ashok walked out of the room that had become so familiar. The attendants bowing as he walked out. Prince Narendra spared no expense to make sure that he was comfortable. The grateful citizens of Assandh doted on their beloved Prince of Magadh even more. They knew full well that Ashok had thwarted another attack despite Ashok trying to downplay the whole issue.
Ashok walked into the terrace. His eyes widened with surprise to see another figure close by. His heart skipped a beat. He almost mistook the long flowing hair to be of Ahankara's. Ashok felt nervous. Oh God why.
Nalini turned to face him. Ashok grudgingly admitted to himself that she did look beautiful in the moonlight.
"You are up." Nalini said with a smile.
"You should not be here." Ashok croaked.
"This is my palace." Nalini replied. "I can go wherever I want to."
Ashok shook his head. "Do what you want."
He walked towards the edge of the terrace making sure he was a fair distance away from her. He carefully placed his hand on the rail. Looking out to the scenery. The soft winds brushing his face was a welcome feeling.
"You are very different from your brother."
Ashok was taken by surprise. He jerked away from Nalini who was inches away from him.
"Don't ever do that again." Ashok said through gritted teeth. He gingerly nursed his chest. "What is your problem?"
"Just trying to see what my cousin sees in you." Nalini said with a coy smile. "Ahankara in her last letter to me was singing praises about Rajkumar Sushim. But then I heard that she has shifted her interest towards you. I just want to know why."
Ashok sighed. "My brother is a special kind of person. He cannot hold anyone's goodwill for long."
"Oh that is interesting." Nalini crooned. "Do tell me more."
"You don't want to know lady." Ashok said with a grimace. He turned to leave. Nalini blocked his path.
"I have seen the mark in your hand." Nalini said looking into his eyes. "She has chosen you."
"Get to the point." Ashok snapped.
"She sacrificed everything because of her strong feelings for you." Nalini said quietly. "I just wanted to know why."
Ashok turned towards her. "She did it because she has a good heart. Not because she was in love with me."
"But she is." Nalini persisted.
"She fell in love with me much later." Ashok said dismissively. "When she turned on her father she was with Bhrata Sushim. But Bhrata Sushim spurned her after he found out Rajaji Raj was part of the conspiracy."
"Then what happened?" Nalini asked. Ashok sighed. I better settle this.
"Then Bhrata Sushim tried to kill her."
"Then you protected her?" Nalini asked curiously.
"Yes. And I made sure that she was reunited with her mother." Ashok said shortly. "The rest is history. I don't know when but at some point I guess she fell in love with me."
"But why did she get engaged to Sushim after he tried to kill her?" Nalini asked. The playfulness in her voice was gone.
"It was your aunt's idea." Ashok shook his head. "She wanted Ahankara to be married to the Yuvraj of Magadh." He said with disgust.
"But why not you?" Nalini asked.
"Because everyone thought I was just a commoner back then." Ashok replied. Nalini looked surprised.
"Interesting." She whispered. "When did she find out that you were a Prince?" Nalini asked aloud.
"After Rani Niharika died." Ashok said gruffly. Nalini just stood there staring at him. "When did she mark you?"
"Shortly after the death of her father." Ashok replied.
"So she fell in love with a commoner?" Nalini asked. "Wow."
Ashok felt uncomfortable.
"Can I go now?" Ashok asked.
"Just one last question." Nalini asked. "Do you love her too?"
Ashok sighed. He was expecting this question.
"All you need to know is that I care about her immensely." Ashok said quietly.
"I see how it is." Nalini said teasingly.
"Whatever." Ashok sighed and walked past her before she could stop him. What a waste of time.
"Don't let anyone inside." Ashok said to his attendants as he walked through the door. "Especially Rajkumari Nalini."
"But-" an attendant begun.
"But nothing." Ashok slammed the door shut. He winced in pain. Well that was a stupid thing to do.
Ashok nursed his chest walking towards his desk where the book he was thinking about lay glowing in the moonlight and the lamp. Ashok smiled. It was the treatise of war from Xin that his father had translated. Stealing it from his inebriated brother was pretty easy.
He rummaged through the pages quietly. There is so much I need to learn.
"Bhrata."
Ashok tensed. He turned around to see it was Siyamak. Beside him were Vasunandan and Subhao. Ashok closed the book and stood up.
Ashok could only stare at the familiar faces before him as his feelings overtook him. Siyamak walked towards him. He was looking towards his bandaged chest, tears falling down his face. He carefully wrapped his arms around Ashok. Ashok felt his eyes well up as he hugged his younger brother. He looked towards Vasunandan and Subhao smiling. Both of them returned his smile.
You guys.
Vasunandan and Subhao walked towards him and joined the hug. It seemed like forever but finally Ashok felt content in his heart.
Meanwhile on the outskirts of Assandh
Amatya Rakshas was travelling through the plains with the retinue of guards that Rajkumar Sushim had given him. The unexpected turn of events had him rushing for Taxilla.
"He survived?" Amatya Rakshas stood up. He looked towards Rajmata Helena and Rajkumar Sushim for reconfirmation.
"Mahamatya Khalnatak has betrayed me." Sushim said through clenched teeth. "The Ujjaini Sena had rescued him." Helena frowned.
"I am not too sure about that" She interrupted. "I think Radhagupt was the one who got the Ujjaini Sena there."
"Radhagupt only acted on Khalnatak's orders!" Sushim growled. "That imbecile is useless by himself!"
"Enough!" Amatya Rakshas cut in before the argument escalated. "It doesn't matter if the ambush failed. Keechak is not losing this war."
"How can you say that for sure?" Helena asked.
"Because I will personally make sure of it." Amatya Rakshas spat.
"Do what you need to." Sushim said quietly. "You have my support."
And he left Patliputra that very night. And with speed that even surprised him he ghosted through Magadh towards Taxilla.
Thank you Rajmata. You have given me reason to live again. Let's see how much this Shishya has learned from his Guru.
So sorry for the late update. Had some work yesterday so could not finish this.
Hope it was worth the wait. Leave your thoughts below.
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