Bisringkhal-An Assam Timeline

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 1: Suhung​

January 1675

​

Kamjang took a deep breath and shook his head. He was no longer Kamjang, that name had died the moment he had accepted the offer from Debera. He was now Suhung. He was now the King.



How this had happened to him when the only reason he had come to Garhgaon in the first place was to marry the former Borpatragohain’s daughter, he knew not. But this was his fate, and he supposed he ought to make something of it.



The how of it all still amused him slightly. As Suhung waited for the time to come, he found himself thinking back to it.



There was just one man waiting for him as he entered the courtyard of the Royal Palace. The palanquin stopped and was lowered. Kamjang got out and saw the man standing there.



He frowned. This was not the Borpatragohain. Indeed, this was not even the Borbarua. This was some other man. Who he was, Kamjang did not know and he did not like it.



“Your Highness.” The man said bowing low. “Welcome to Garghaon.”



“Who are you?” Kamjang demanded.



“I am Achuk, the Bhitarual Phukan. His Lordship the Borbarua has sent me to escort you to him.” The man, Achuk replied.



Kamjang frowned. Why was the King’s chief guard here? Why was he not with the King? Kamjang decided to ask this and got a laugh for his efforts.



“His Majesty has no further need of me for today.”



Kamjang frowned, but decided to follow the man, to see where this would all go.



The man led him into the Palace proper, passed guards who lowered their eyes as they passed, down one hallway and then another. There was a strange atmosphere about the place. What it was exactly, Kamjang did not know. But it made him feel incredibly unsettled.



After what felt like an age they stopped before a door that had two heavy and muscular Nagas standing guard before it. Achuk whispered something to one of the guards, and they turned, opened the door and said something. Clearly the answer pleased whoever was on the other side of the door, for the guards stepped to one side, whilst the door was kept open.



“Let me go in first, Your Highness.” Achuk said, his tone simpering.



Kamjang grunted and watched as the man entered the room, he could vaguely hear some words being exchanged. What exactly was said he did not know. But that did not matter, for the next moment, Achuk was there before him.



“Please, the Borbarua wishes to see you, Your Highness.”



Kamjang nodded and strode into the room. The first thing he noticed was that it was brightly lit. There were candles everywhere, which surprised him given the hour. But then his attention shifted to the man who was approaching him.



The Borbarua was dressed in his finery, gold and silver on his arms and body. His clothes were spotless. Kamjang noted all this with approval. He could not stand servants who did not maintain themselves.



The man bowed. “Your Highness, please have a seat.”



Kamjang followed the man and took a seat opposite him. He noted the papers that were spread out before the man on the table but said nothing about them.



Instead, he waited for the Borbarua to speak.



After a brief silence, the man spoke. “How was your journey here, Your Highness?”



“Fine.” Kamjang, was this all the man wanted to ask him? Mere pleasantries?



The man clearly sensed Kamjang’s annoyance for he changed his tack. “My apologies, Your Highness. I know the journey will have been tiring, but I felt that I needed to speak with you to inform you of changes that have occurred at the capital.”



Kamjang frowned. “What changes?”



“The Borpatragohain was executed for treason not too long ago. It was found he was conspiring with Delhi to try and cause another war.” The Borbarua said.



Kamjang felt his frown deepen. The Borpatragohain conspiring against the throne? That could not be true. The man was fiercely loyal to the King. Whenever Kamjang had met him, all he’d done was discuss the plans the King had for improving the Kingdom.



The Borbarua clearly read his silence as shock. “I know that it is surprising. I could not believe it myself when I was told by His Majesty. But the evidence was overwhelming.”



Kamjang nodded, but then asked. “What will become of my betrothal to the man’s daughter?” He did not want to be associated with a traitor’s family, no matter if the man’s daughter was beautiful.



“Before he died, His Majesty had considered this and had decided that you were to marry King Sutmala’s daughter Pakhari.” The Borbarua said.



“Pakhari…” Kamjang said. He had met her once or twice before. She was a beautiful woman. Then something else that the man had said came to his attention. “The King is dead?!” How could such a healthy man have died so suddenly?



The Borbarua nodded. “Yes, unfortunately so. It seems that the Borpatragohain’s followers decided to take revenge and poisoned the King. They have been dealt with.”



Kamjang stared at the Borbarua in horror. Someone had poisoned and successfully murdered the King! What was happening here?!



“Who… who will succeed the King?” Kamjang asked, his voice hoarse.



“You, Your Highness.” The Borbarua said looking right at him.



“Me…me?” Kamjang asked amazed. Why was he being chosen to be King?



“Yes, His Majesty felt that you were the right person to take the throne. You do not have the taint by association with the Borpatragohain that someone such as Kalia Gohain has. Nor are you someone who is constantly hounding for war, as someone such as Solail Gohain is. You are free to make your own way.” The Borbarua said.



Kamjang stared at the man, completely at a loss for words. He did not know whether this was happening, or if it was just a dream. Either way, he felt as though he would wake. “Has this been approved by the Council?” He finally asked when his words were able to come out.



“Yes.” The Borbarua said simply. “The only thing that remains is whether you will accept.”



Kamjang thought on that, did he want to be King? Or did he want to remain in obscurity? There were many things that he had always wanted to change about the way the Kingdom was run. Things that he could only change as King. Then he remembered the promise he had made his father all those years ago….



“I will accept.” Kamjang said.



The Borbarua smiled. “Excellent, thank you, Your Majesty.”



“Your Majesty?” A voice pulled Suhung from his thoughts. He blinked and found the new Bhitarual Phukan standing before him. The man was the Borbarua’s nephew, and Achuk-who Suhung had confirmed as the new Borpatragohain-son.



“Yes?” Suhung asked.



“It is time, the priests are ready for you, Sire.” The man replied.



Suhung nodded and stepped forward, preparing himself to be crowned and to become King and God’s representative on Earth.

 

[Emperor of Greater India]

Chapter 1: Suhung​

January 1675

​

Kamjang took a deep breath and shook his head. He was no longer Kamjang, that name had died the moment he had accepted the offer from Debera. He was now Suhung. He was now the King.



How this had happened to him when the only reason he had come to Garhgaon in the first place was to marry the former Borpatragohain’s daughter, he knew not. But this was his fate, and he supposed he ought to make something of it.



The how of it all still amused him slightly. As Suhung waited for the time to come, he found himself thinking back to it.



There was just one man waiting for him as he entered the courtyard of the Royal Palace. The palanquin stopped and was lowered. Kamjang got out and saw the man standing there.



He frowned. This was not the Borpatragohain. Indeed, this was not even the Borbarua. This was some other man. Who he was, Kamjang did not know and he did not like it.



“Your Highness.” The man said bowing low. “Welcome to Garghaon.”



“Who are you?” Kamjang demanded.



“I am Achuk, the Bhitarual Phukan. His Lordship the Borbarua has sent me to escort you to him.” The man, Achuk replied.



Kamjang frowned. Why was the King’s chief guard here? Why was he not with the King? Kamjang decided to ask this and got a laugh for his efforts.



“His Majesty has no further need of me for today.”



Kamjang frowned, but decided to follow the man, to see where this would all go.



The man led him into the Palace proper, passed guards who lowered their eyes as they passed, down one hallway and then another. There was a strange atmosphere about the place. What it was exactly, Kamjang did not know. But it made him feel incredibly unsettled.



After what felt like an age they stopped before a door that had two heavy and muscular Nagas standing guard before it. Achuk whispered something to one of the guards, and they turned, opened the door and said something. Clearly the answer pleased whoever was on the other side of the door, for the guards stepped to one side, whilst the door was kept open.



“Let me go in first, Your Highness.” Achuk said, his tone simpering.



Kamjang grunted and watched as the man entered the room, he could vaguely hear some words being exchanged. What exactly was said he did not know. But that did not matter, for the next moment, Achuk was there before him.



“Please, the Borbarua wishes to see you, Your Highness.”



Kamjang nodded and strode into the room. The first thing he noticed was that it was brightly lit. There were candles everywhere, which surprised him given the hour. But then his attention shifted to the man who was approaching him.



The Borbarua was dressed in his finery, gold and silver on his arms and body. His clothes were spotless. Kamjang noted all this with approval. He could not stand servants who did not maintain themselves.



The man bowed. “Your Highness, please have a seat.”



Kamjang followed the man and took a seat opposite him. He noted the papers that were spread out before the man on the table but said nothing about them.



Instead, he waited for the Borbarua to speak.



After a brief silence, the man spoke. “How was your journey here, Your Highness?”



“Fine.” Kamjang, was this all the man wanted to ask him? Mere pleasantries?



The man clearly sensed Kamjang’s annoyance for he changed his tack. “My apologies, Your Highness. I know the journey will have been tiring, but I felt that I needed to speak with you to inform you of changes that have occurred at the capital.”



Kamjang frowned. “What changes?”



“The Borpatragohain was executed for treason not too long ago. It was found he was conspiring with Delhi to try and cause another war.” The Borbarua said.



Kamjang felt his frown deepen. The Borpatragohain conspiring against the throne? That could not be true. The man was fiercely loyal to the King. Whenever Kamjang had met him, all he’d done was discuss the plans the King had for improving the Kingdom.



The Borbarua clearly read his silence as shock. “I know that it is surprising. I could not believe it myself when I was told by His Majesty. But the evidence was overwhelming.”



Kamjang nodded, but then asked. “What will become of my betrothal to the man’s daughter?” He did not want to be associated with a traitor’s family, no matter if the man’s daughter was beautiful.



“Before he died, His Majesty had considered this and had decided that you were to marry King Sutmala’s daughter Pakhari.” The Borbarua said.



“Pakhari…” Kamjang said. He had met her once or twice before. She was a beautiful woman. Then something else that the man had said came to his attention. “The King is dead?!” How could such a healthy man have died so suddenly?



The Borbarua nodded. “Yes, unfortunately so. It seems that the Borpatragohain’s followers decided to take revenge and poisoned the King. They have been dealt with.”



Kamjang stared at the Borbarua in horror. Someone had poisoned and successfully murdered the King! What was happening here?!



“Who… who will succeed the King?” Kamjang asked, his voice hoarse.



“You, Your Highness.” The Borbarua said looking right at him.



“Me…me?” Kamjang asked amazed. Why was he being chosen to be King?



“Yes, His Majesty felt that you were the right person to take the throne. You do not have the taint by association with the Borpatragohain that someone such as Kalia Gohain has. Nor are you someone who is constantly hounding for war, as someone such as Solail Gohain is. You are free to make your own way.” The Borbarua said.



Kamjang stared at the man, completely at a loss for words. He did not know whether this was happening, or if it was just a dream. Either way, he felt as though he would wake. “Has this been approved by the Council?” He finally asked when his words were able to come out.



“Yes.” The Borbarua said simply. “The only thing that remains is whether you will accept.”



Kamjang thought on that, did he want to be King? Or did he want to remain in obscurity? There were many things that he had always wanted to change about the way the Kingdom was run. Things that he could only change as King. Then he remembered the promise he had made his father all those years ago….



“I will accept.” Kamjang said.



The Borbarua smiled. “Excellent, thank you, Your Majesty.”



“Your Majesty?” A voice pulled Suhung from his thoughts. He blinked and found the new Bhitarual Phukan standing before him. The man was the Borbarua’s nephew, and Achuk-who Suhung had confirmed as the new Borpatragohain-son.



“Yes?” Suhung asked.



“It is time, the priests are ready for you, Sire.” The man replied.



Suhung nodded and stepped forward, preparing himself to be crowned and to become King and God’s representative on Earth.

I am having the Assam experience in EU4 currently, this TL inspired me to do it for the first time. Damn hard to break Bengal unless you have big allies like Gajapati Orissa helping you out, which I had fortunately.

 

[VVD0D95]

I am having the Assam experience in EU4 currently, this TL inspired me to do it for the first time. Damn hard to break Bengal unless you have big allies like Gajapati Orissa helping you out, which I had fortunately.

Oh indeed sometimes you also need Bengal to be occupied fighting itself

 

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 2: Marriage​

January 1675

​

Pakhari Gabharu, daughter of Sutmala, the former King of the Ahom Kingdom, looked at the scene before her and took a breath.



101 earthen lamps, all alight, were before her. Six circles of sixteen small lamps were arrayed together, in the innermost circle, there were four medium sized earthen lamps, and finally, in its heart there was one large earthen lamp. All were burning brightly to signify the marriage that was about to occur.



Pakhari had wondered when this day might come. Her sister had been sent off many years ago to marry a Prince of Delhi, and from what little correspondence there had been between the two of them, Pakhari knew her sister was unhappy. Still, rather the unhappiness of marriage than the loneliness of being unattached.



Both cousin Supangmung and Sunyatphaa had said they would marry her to someone, but neither of them had had a chance to arrange something. Cousin Suklamphaa had also said something similar, but he too was dead.



The one who had decided she should marry had not been a member of the Royal Family as would have been proper. Instead, it was the Borbarua. He had come to her home and told her she would marry the new King. Oh, the Borbarua claimed that this was the will of the old King, but Pakhari knew better.



She knew that the old King would never have married her off to some nobody who had previously been betrothed to the Borpatragohain’s daughter. But she had agreed to go ahead with the marriage, simply because it meant she would be married.



The man she was marrying was sat beside her, Pakhari managed a quick glance at him and took him in. Dressed in the Royal Blue, Suhung cut an interesting figure. He was somewhat tall, he had a mark on his right cheek, and he had haunting pale blue eyes. His mother was not from within the Kingdom. Indeed, Pakhari had heard she had been from Kashmir.



He had not said much to her, but he smiled at her then as he saw her looking at him. Pakhari managed a small smile in return and then focused on the priests. They were reciting a verse from the Vedas.



This wedding ceremony, as with many ceremonies for members of the Royal Family combined the traditions of the Ahom people and the traditions of the Hindu faith. They had Ahom Priests and Brahmins conducting it.



Normally that would have meant that the ceremony would have been incredibly long, but Suhung had put his foot down. He had insisted that the ceremony should take no longer than hour.



For that Pakhari was incredibly grateful. If she had to sit in her clothes for longer than an hour in this burning heat, she would scream. It was not hot outside; indeed, it was quite cold, but something about this hall made her feel quite hot.

The Brahmin looked at her then and asked first in Sanskrit then in Assamese. “Do you, Pakhari Gabharu, daughter of His Majesty Sutmala, King of the Ahom Kingdom and Chosen of the Gods, recognise and accept His Majesty Suhung, King of the Ahom Kingdom, Dragon and Chosen of the Gods, as your lawful husband and King?”



“I do.” Pakhari replied. It was a simple sentence to say but it was weighed down with meaning. That simple word changed everything for her.



The Brahmin nodded, then turned to Suhung and asked him. “Do you take this lady, Pakhari Gabharu, daughter of a King, as your lawful wife and Queen?”



“I do.” Suhung replied, looking right at her.



Pakhari felt a chill run down her then. All that was left now was the long walk and then the Ahom ceremony and it was all done.



The Brahmin nodded and spoke. “Begin your walk into the light of God.”



Normally, that walk would involve walking around a burning fire, but given that this was a mixture of two cultures, they instead rose, Suhung taking Pakhari’s hand in his and together they walked around the lamps.



The first time they completed the walk, the Brahmin said. “In rays of Agni, may you find happiness.”



The second time he said. “In the rays of the Sun may you find peace.”

He mentioned four other Gods, including Vishnu and Shiva, before coming to Indra, the God that the dynasty descended from.



“In the name of Indra, the founder and progenitor, may your marriage be fruitful and bountiful.”



They completed the walk, stopped before the Brahmin and let go of one another before folding their hands together and bowing low.



Please let this marriage be a happy one.



Pakhari prayed. She did not want the turbulence of her parents’ marriage. Anything but that.



The prayer done, the Brahmin rose and strode off to the side whilst the Ahom priest approached. He sat down and then looked at them both.



“You have both sworn to uphold the vows of commitment and marriage before the Gods. Do you know what those vows entail?



Pakhari went first as was her right. “We do.”



Then came the next question. “Will you stand through all that the world and humanity has to throw at you?



“We will.” Suhung replied.



The Priest seemed happy with the answer, for he then said. “Let the ceremony be concluded.”



Pakhari turned and took the hengdang, the sword of protection, from a servant. She nearly stumbled with its weight but managed to bring herself to rightness.



She turned to Suhung and said. “With this sword, I offer you my life to protect and guard.”



She extended the sword to Suhung who took it and said. “With this sword, I accept your life to protect and guard.”



He took the sword and raised it high and said. “In Indra’s name I vow to be a good lord and husband. No one shall separate us without our consent.” He brought the hengdang down and looked at the Priest.



Pakhari looked at the priest as well, the man smiled and said. “I present our King and Queen.”



Pakhari exhaled, a sense of relief flowing through her.

 

[Emperor of Greater India]

Hey, I even posted this story's link on my profile. Might help a bit. You are going good.

 

[VVD0D95]

Hey, I even posted this story's link on my profile. Might help a bit. You are going good.

Cheers greatly appreciate it

 

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 3: Conspiracy​

January 1675

​

On the second day of this august month, Lord Indra saw fit to bestow upon our head, the crown of our glorious ancestor Sukaphaa. Many came to witness the ceremony and to offer their allegiance. However, there were those who stayed away.



We can understand that some may not have had time to come given the distances and the short time for the summons. However, we have decided to rectify this.



We summon all those who did not come to the ceremony to come to Garhgaon to offer fealty. They shall have four weeks to do so. If at the end of that time they have not done so, they shall face the most severe of punishments.



I do hereby issue this proclamation.



Suhung, Chosen of the Gods, Dragon and King of the Ahom Kingdom



Noban put down the missive and looked at his uncle. “That was an oddly courageous and forward missive. Not one that I would expect from the new King, based off what your spies have said.”



His uncle, Solail Gohain, snorted. “That is because it is not Suhung the arseling who has written it. It is instead that fool and usurper, Debera Borbarua who has written it.”



“Why?” Came the question from Narayan, Noban’s brother.



Noban answered. “Because the Borbarua has usurped power and has decided to make it clear to everyone that he is the real power. But he has cloaked that in the words of the King he has chosen for the throne. Normal procedure would be to have the ceremony last for nine or ten days, with the summons being sent out at least a month beforehand. However, that was not done this time.”



He took a breath before continuing. “Instead, the ceremony was held within a day or two of Suhung arriving at the capital, and the missive for the oaths to be sworn were sent out afterwards.”



Narayan pointed at the missive on the table and asked. “You mean to say that that is the missive that should have been sent out before?”



“Yes.” Noban replied.



“So, what does this mean?” Narayan asked. His brother was not the most skilled in political machinations, Noban knew, but even this should have been obvious.



“What it means is that either we go and kiss that arseling’s feet or be called traitors.” Solail said bitterly.



“And what will you do, uncle?” Narayan asked, though Noban could see a hint of a smile in his brother’s eyes, which he knew meant that the man was pulling their uncle’s leg.



Solail clearly didn’t know this though, for he replied quite angrily. “I will never swear allegiance to that arseling. He was nothing but a minor landowner before he was placed on the throne by Borbarua. No, I will take the throne, I will take my birth right and I will destroy the Borbarua.”



You have as much right to that throne as Suklamphaa did. Noban thought bitterly, but he did not say it out loud. Instead, he asked. “And how do you intend to do that, Uncle? The army gathered here is not big enough to take Garhgaon by itself, is it?”



“It is.” Solail said. “If we move quickly and do not delay. We can be at Garhgaon within three days at a quick march. And I do not think the Borbarua will be writing to Kamrup asking for assistance.”



“Why?” Noban asked. Surely the most logical thing for the Borbarua to do was to get the officers and the army at Kamrup on his side.



Solail smiled, which was a slightly terrifying sight, given the man was missing some of his teeth. “Because he does not want the army there to leave, and because he knows the moment they do, they will be made aware of everything he has done. And they will not stand for it.”



But they accepted it when Suklamphaa removed my father and took the throne himself.



Noban pushed that thought to the side and instead asked. “When will you depart?” Noban expected that he and Narayan would be required to serve the man, after all, he expected to be King. As much as Noban wanted to tell his uncle to fight for Kalia, he didn’t actually know where Kalia was. Until he did, he would have to play this game.

“By the end of the week.” Solail replied.



“We will prepare accordingly.” Noban said sharing a look with Narayan, they would need to find a way to get word to Kalia. If he was still alive that was.



“You will not be accompanying the army.” Solail said looking right at him.



Noban frowned. “What would you have me do?”



“You will head north to the Tungkhungia lands and speak with Jambor Gohain. You will convince him that his interests are better served allying with me. Once you have done that, you will come south and head to Namrup and speak with that branch of the family. You will win them over and ensure that they do not go to Suhung’s pretended swearing ceremony.” Solail said.



Noban nodded, he could see the sense in what his uncle was proposing, however, Namrup was closer to Charaideo. “Wouldn’t it make more sense to head to Namrup then go north, rather than go north and then head back?”



It was Narayan who answered. “Jambor has more men to call to arms. Namrup is very small, but Tungkhungia is rich and prosperous. It makes more sense for them to be courted first as a result.”



“Ah, I see.” Noban replied, so, his brother had been paying attention to that particular lesson then.



“And will you go right to Garhgaon?” Noban asked, facing his uncle.



“Yes. We cannot delay. The fool in the capital must be removed.” Solail answered.



Noban nodded, and then in honour of what they were all planning, he put a hand to his chest and spoke. “By Lord Indra, may they know His Majesty’s wrath!”



Narayan said the same, after which Solail smiled and spoke. “When I sit in Garhgaon, I will remember your assistance.” Noban bowed low and kept his head bowed as his uncle walked out of the room.



When the man was gone, Noban raised his head and looked at Narayan and spoke. “You know what you need to do.” His brother nodded; the conspiracy had begun.

 

[Emperor of Greater India]

Conspiracy within a conspiracy. What has the world come to. Yet, fascinating. 😈😈

 

[VVD0D95]

Conspiracy within a conspiracy. What has the world come to.

Absolute madness

 

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 4: Hideaway​

January 1675

​

The trees shrouded his vision and Kalia cursed as another fly tried to come into his eyes. He swatted the beast away and exhaled. It had been a difficult few hours. They’d arrived at this particular juncture earlier in the morning and after setting up camp, Kalia had noticed the site below them.



A series of tents, a banner flying high in the air. A clear sign that they had come across the Raja of Darrang and his party on their way to Garhgaon. Clearly the Raja had not heard of the death of Kalia’s uncle, or if he had perhaps, he was heading to the capital to swear allegiance to the new puppet that the Borbarua had installed.



Kalia had never met the new King, Suhung, but it seemed that the Chief Brahmin, Mohanmala Gosain had. Seemingly Mohanmala had travelled to the small estate Suhung had had to perform the last rites for the man’s mother.



The description that Mohanmala had provided was not one that struck fear into Kalia. Indeed, it did the opposite. Suhung sounded like a pathetic weakling who was easily pushed around. Someone who did not have a single original thought in his head.



That knowledge made Kalia understand why Debera had chosen Suhung as the new King. No doubt he had sent missives to everyone demanding they come and swear allegiance. Other than those at Kamrup of course. Kalia had a sneaking suspicion that they remained in the dark.



His thoughts were interrupted by a slight rustling to his right. He turned and saw Mohanmala kneeling. The man could be very loud when he wanted to be, and he could be very quiet when he so chose. Kalia was coming to appreciate having him as a companion.



Indeed, the trust between them was such that Mohanmala had broken with protocol and told Kalia his name. The custom established during the reign of King Sudangphaa stated that the Chief Brahmin was never supposed to tell the princes or anyone what their real name was. They were meant to become one with their role and their duty.



Thus, Mohanmala telling him his name was an act of trust that Kalia felt honoured to have received.



“What are you going to do?” Mohanmala asked him.



Kalia knew what he was referring to and so, took another breath and said. “I need to know more about the Raja. You have met him have you not?”



“I have yes.” Mohanmala replied.



“What was he like?” Kalia asked.



“He is a warrior. He lives for battle; indeed, I think that was why he was given so much leeway by King Suklamphaa to do some raiding into territories that bordered Delhi. He is not a politician like his father, but he listens to good advice. Or what he thinks is good advice.” Mohanmala said.



So, he can be manipulated if we find the right pressure point.



“Who does he listen to the most?” Kalia asked. He didn’t know much about Darrang, the place had never been covered in his lessons.



“His brother. The man is both a warrior and a politician. He is also the Raja’s heir.” Mohanmala said. “So, if you’re going to win the Raja over to your cause, you’re going to need to win his brother over to your cause first.”



Kalia nodded then asked. “How am I going to do that? What is the Raja’s brother like?”



Here, Mohanmala smiled sadly. “That I cannot tell you, I was not able to get a good sense of him the entire time I was in Darrang.”



Kalia sighed. “Very well, I will have to try different things and see what works.”



Mohanmala nodded. “There is something else you should know about the Raja.”



Kalia raised an eyebrow, this wasn’t like Mohanmala, normally he said everything he had to say at once.



“The Raja is a member of the Brahma Sanghati.” Mohanmala said.



Kalia nodded, not quite understanding the significance of that, most Royals were a member of the Brahma Sanghati. It was after all the one school of thought that had issued from Sankardev that truly gave due to the Royals. Unlike the others which were more for the peasants.



“But he is part of the Sanghati that is truly extreme.” Mohanmala said.



“How do you mean?” Kalia asked.



“As in this is a part that wants to bring everything back to how it is west of the Brahmaputra. To make us more like them.” Mohanmala said, a sneer coming to his mouth as he said the word them.



“Ah.” Kalia replied, understanding now. So, the Raja was a bit of an extreme personality who was under the observance of those who would try and change the very fabric of the Kingdom.



“Indeed.” Mohanmala said. “So, if he mentions anything about the Priestly issues within Garhgaon, simply nod and listen to what he says. But do not give a definitive answer.”



“You mean lie.” Kalia replied smiling wryly.



“If you must, yes.” Mohanmala said.



Kalia exhaled, that was just one more complication then alongside figuring out what to pry out of the Raja’s brother that he would need to get to. “Is there anything else that you would like to tell me?” He asked.



Mohanmala shook his head, then nodded to the camp below them. “When are you going to go there?”



Kalia turned and looked down. He was surprised the Raja had not set any guards on this pass, after all, if Kalia was of a mind to, with a simple bow and arrow or even a musket he could cause carnage.



“I do not know.” He answered truthfully, did he go down now, did he wait.



“If I may suggest something, Your Majesty?” Mohanmala asked.



Kalia felt a tingle run through him at the use of the title. It still felt odd being called Majesty.



Kalia nodded but kept his eyes on the campsite below.



“I would not delay. You have seen the campsite, and soon enough if the Raja and his brother have sense they will see us. It is better to get this sorted now than wait.” Mohanmala said.



Kalia turned and looked at Mohanmala and spoke. “You are right. I will go now.” With that he rose up, dusted himself off and began the climb down to the campsite below.

 

[Emperor of Greater India]

Great, now the MC is off dealing with a fanatic warrior. Just great.

 

[VVD0D95]

Great, now the MC is off dealing with a fanatic warrior. Just great.

Aha indeed

 

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 5: Sources​

January 1675

​

Debera took a moment to compile his thoughts. A lot had happened within a short space of time. Suklamphaa, the man he had helped become King had turned against him and then died. The man’s chosen heir had fled, leaving Debera in command of the capital. Debera had then chosen his own King and ensured that the priestly class had accepted him. Thus, imposing him over the entire Kingdom.



That was good, but there were still other areas that were of concern. Or rather, areas that Debera was divided over. Foremost amongst them whether he wanted the new King to have a child by his wife.



He looked at his brother Achuk and voiced this concern. “The King spends most of his days and nights with the Queen, content to leave the business of ruling to me. And whilst I am not opposed to that, it does leave me concerned.”



“About whether the Queen will give birth to a son and what that might change?” Achuk asked.



“Precisely.” Debera said.



“Do you think the King has it in him to change who he is, if he has a son?” Achuk asked.



“I do not think so. At least there is nothing within the King’s personality to suggest he has the ability to change that much.” Debera said. “However, the Queen is a different matter.”



Debera saw his brother frown, a wart that had grown on his face recently stretching as he did so. “How so?” His brother asked.



“She is more like her mother than I first thought.” Debera said, the Queen’s mother had been a fierce fighter, much like the legendary Nang Mula. Indeed, she had died in battle against Delhi, something that had broken her husband, King Sutmala. “She is showing signs of fight. She is questioning the servants that I have paid to watch her. She is even looking to turn some of them out.”



“And you think that if she has a son this will embolden her?” Achuk asked.



“I do not think it, I know it will.” Debera replied. “After all, nothing is to be feared from a woman, other than the sheer ferocity with which she will protect her children if she thinks they are threatened.”



Debera saw his brother’s frown deepen, the wart expanding further. “Do you think she sees you as a threat?”



Debera sighed. “I do not know.” And that was the truth. He had tried to keep his interactions with the Queen to a minimum. Something about her made him feel deeply uncomfortable. Instead, he used her servants to try and shape her opinion. How successful he was being in that; he did not know.



“What will you do?” Achuk asked.

“I will wait and see.” Debera replied. “Besides there are other more important things to focus on.”



“Such as?” Achuk asked.



“The Prince of Namrup is coming to court soon.” Debera replied.



Achuk’s eyes widened. Debera smiled; he could understand why his brother was so surprised by that. The Prince of Namrup was a reclusive person, someone who never came to court and rarely spoke to anyone. Rumours were that he had joined one of the sects and become a mute. But he held some influence with the tribals, and if he came to swear allegiance, then so would they.



“How did you manage to get him to agree to come here?” Achuk asked.



“I did nothing. I think the prince simply wants to swear allegiance. After all, he and the King’s father were friends.” Debera said. And they shared a common history in that they had lost loved ones to King Sunyatphaa’s depravities.



“So, he comes and swears his allegiance. What then?” Achuk asked.



“We use him as an example for the other princely families. To show them that if even a recluse like Namrup can come and swear his oath, then they can too.” Debera said.



“Do you think that will force Solail Gohain out of Charaideo?” Achuk asked referring to the previous King’s brother, the one who had the best military experience out of all those Princes left.



“I think it may play a role in driving him out of Charaideo, but he was already planning on moving from there. Indeed, he sent Noban Gohain out to bring Jambor Gohain on to his side.” Debera said.



“He did?” Achuk asked, struggling to control a laugh. Jambor Gohain was not the sanest of people. He apparently was a devout follower of Shakti and lived according to her principles.



“Indeed.” Debera replied. “Whether that mission will be met with success or not, I do not know. But I have already sent someone to meet with Jambor, to show him the true path.”



Jambor might be mad, but his wealth was such that, he could pay for a large army. An army that might be needed if Kalia Gohain ever emerged from the shadows.



“Will you summon the army from Kamrup if Solail Gohain does march out?” Achuk asked.



“No.” Debera replied shaking his head. “They will stay there. We won’t need them to fight that fool.” He was confident that he would be able to defeat whatever ragtag army Solail had gathered with his own men. Or through trickery.



“Will you be able to convince the King of that?” Achuk asked.



“Yes.” Debera answered. “The King will believe whatever I tell him.” Of that, he was sure. Suhung wanted an easy life.



The conversation then changed to Kalia Gohain, the shadow lurking behind everything. Achuk, who Debera had tasked with finding the man, spoke. “My spies report that the last sighting of Kalia Gohain and The Chief Brahmin was somewhere near Golaghat.”



“So, they haven’t gotten very far?” Debera asked surprised. Surely with it being just the two of them they could have covered a greater distance than that.



“It seems so. Perhaps the Gohain is scared? Or maybe the Brahmin is slowing him down.” Achuk suggested.



“Perhaps.” Debera mused.



“Are you sure they will head to Kamrup?” Achuk asked.



“Yes. If they were going to go to Charaideo we would have heard about it by now. No, the boy is going to go to Kamrup and try and bring that army back to the capital.” Debera said.



“Then I will make sure my men find him before he gets there.” Achuk said.



Debera nodded. He was confident in his brother. He was also confident that if his brother failed, then the jungles of the Kingdom would do the job for them.

 

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 6: Finery​

January 1675

​

Suhung stretched out on the bed, it was far more comfortable than the bed he had slept on back home. That bed had been rock hard, the result of his father’s debts, and the replacement of something comfortable with an ascetic’s bed.



It had not been good to sleep on, but this, this was something else. Suhung looked at the clothes he wore, the sheer softness of the shirt and the pants and sighed. He could get very used to this. Wearing such finery and having to do very little to deserve it.



A complete contrast to what things had been like at home where he had had to do everything. Now, if he wanted something done, he could just clap his hands and it would be done. It didn’t matter how ridiculous the demand was. Indeed, just this morning he’d asked that one of his elephants be made to run the rings for his amusement and it had been done!



It helped he supposed that Debera Borbarua was there to oversee the business of government. And that Debera only came once every week to inform him of what was happening in the Kingdom.



Today was one such day.



Debera was stood before him, waiting. Suhung looked behind him where Pakhari was leaning against the bed reading a Buranji. He coughed and she put the thing down.



He then looked at Debera. “Speak.” He commanded and the man did!



“There have been some disturbances with the fish mongers, Sire.” Debera said.



“Why? Suhung asked.



“It seems that they want a higher percentage of the profits made from selling on the roads leading to the Royal Palace. They believe they are not earning their fair due.” Debera said.



“And are they?” Suhung asked.



“Of course. The base rate was set by His Majesty King Sutmala more than two decades ago, and since then we have made small adjustments to deal with things such as war and the harvest variances. But they are getting their fair rate.” Debera said.



“So, why are they complaining?” Suhung asked confused.



“Because there are some amongst them who are not happy, who are never happy. Troublemakers who wish to sow dissent and discord amongst Your Majesty’s loyal subjects.” Debera replied.



“So, how are you going to handle them?” Suhung asked. He had no intention of dealing with such barbarians himself. That was not something a King did.



“I am meeting with their leader on the morrow, we are going to discuss their key concerns and how they can best be addressed.” Debera said.



“Very well, but do not give them too much. They must understand their place.” Suhung said fiercely, remembering a lesson his mother had taught him once. The world was shaped in a specific way and Kings were at its top. Rebels must be reminded of that.



“Of course, Sire.” Debera replied.



Pakhari coughed and Suhung remembered what he was meant to ask Debera. ‘’When is the Prince of Namrup arriving?” The man was a friend of Suhung’s, someone who had been there when his father had been killed. Someone Suhung trusted.



“Tomorrow, Sire.” Debera replied. “He is coming with fifty men from his household.”



“And he will swear the oath?” Suhung asked. He knew how important it was to have someone like Namrup swear the oath. Anything less would be chaotic.



“Yes, Sire.” Debera said.



“Good.” Suhung replied.



“And what of the others? Jambor and that lot?” Suhung asked.



“As of now there has been no answer from Jambor Gohain, however, I am confident that he will come to the capital.” Debera said.



“How can you be so sure?” Pakhari asked then her voice sharp.



Suhung felt a slight twinge of annoyance at that, why did she always have to ask questions like that?



If Debera felt annoyed by the question it did not show on his face. Indeed, his tone was quite neutral when he replied. “Because there is no chance that a man like Jambor Gohain will side with someone such as Solail Gohain. They are two completely different types of people. One is a devout Shakti follower, the other is a marauding soldier who believes in no God but his sword.”



“Such differences can be overcome if there is a common enemy.” Pakhari said softly.



Suhung turned around and glared at her. Really, there was no need for her to say such things.



He turned back to look at Debera, and the latter simply said. “If there was a common enemy then perhaps, but there is not. His Majesty is the rightful King and anyone who denies that is a traitor.”



“If that is so, then why are you worrying about people coming to swear allegiance in person. Surely you should be confident in their loyalty regardless.” Pakhari asked.



“Pakhari!” Suhung said warningly.



Debera answered the question his wife had rather impertinently asked. “In normal times I would fully agree with you, Your Majesty. However, these are not normal times. There are threats lurking. Solail Gohain of course, but also that traitor and murderer Kalia Gohain.”



“Where is he?” Suhung asked then to prevent his wife asking more questions. “Kalia, I mean.”



After all there was Kalia and that Brahmin. Nobody else. How could it be so difficult to get them?



“They are currently somewhere near Golaghat, Sire.” Debera said.



“Somewhere? You do not actually know?” Pakhari asked.



“It is difficult to keep an eye through forests and all sorts of other things, Majesty.” Debera said. Was that a hint of malice in his tone? Suhung wasn’t sure, but he dismissed that when Debera continued.



“We will find him soon though. Of that, I am sure. And once we do, he will be dealt with as all traitors must be.”



Satisfied, Suhung asked. “Is there aught else?”



“No, Sire.” Debera replied.


“Then you may go.” Suhung said, dismissing the man with a wave of his hand. Debera bowed then walked out of the room.



The moment he was gone, Suhung whirled around on the bed and glared at Pakhari. He was going to give her a piece of his mind!

 

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 7: Wife​

January 1675

​

The moment Debera Borbarua left; her husband turned around on the bed to glare at her. Pakhari prepared herself for what was undoubtedly going to be an argument.



As far as she was concerned there was nothing wrong with what she had done. Suhung was the King and as King he should have been asking Debera the hard questions. Wanting to know why certain things were being done if everything was as good as Debera made out.



But instead, Suhung was content to allow Debera to give his answers and to let things go on. Well, that wasn’t good enough for Pakhari. She was the daughter of a King, and she knew what needed to be asked.



“How dare you!” Suhung snarled.



“What?” Pakhari asked softly.



“How dare you speak like that to my minister!” Suhung snarled.



“Like what?” Pakhari asked, wanting Suhung to say the words.



“How dare you speak to him as if he was some lying cheat. He is the entire reason that I am on this throne!” Suhung snapped.



“And that is exactly why I spoke to him the way I did.” Pakhari replied calmly.



“What?” Suhung snapped.



Pakhari took a deep breath, evidently, she was going to have to explain this to Suhung. Which was a shame, she had actually felt some attraction for him before this.



“Because he put you on the throne it is important to keep him on his toes. To keep him thinking.” Pakhari explained. When Suhung just frowned at her, she continued. “He thinks he owns you. That you are nothing more than a puppet for him to use whenever it suits. But you are not. You are the King, and you must act like it.”



Suhung pointed to his shirt. ‘I am.”



Pakhari snorted. “That is not being King.”



“What?” Suhung demanded sounding hurt.



“Wearing nice clothes and looking nice is not being King. That is being a puppet for someone else. What is being King is doing the hard work. Attending council meetings, meeting with nobles and the people, hearing their concerns and their hopes. That is being King.” Pakhari said.



“Why would I do any of that, when I have Debera.” Suhung demanded, the hurt being replaced by anger.



“Debera is the exact reason why you need to do all of that.” Pakhari replied.



“Why?” Suhung said.



“Because he is using you as a means of legitimising his own power grab.” Pakhari said, wondering how Suhung had not figured this out for himself.



“Nonsense.” Suhung replied, giving his answer.



“Not nonsense, it is a fact. Look at this meeting today. He told you what was happening, and you blindly accepted everything he said. I was the only one who questioned him.” Pakhari replied.



“Why would I question him?” Suhung asked. “He has given the answers and I trust him.”



Pakhari wanted to scream. She took a deep breath, she could not scream, she had to be reasonable. “I believe that that is the most foolish thing that you could do.”



“Why?”



Pakhari wanted to slap her husband, instead, she said. “He is lying to you.”



“About?” Suhung asked.



“The fish mongers.” Pakhari replied.



“How do you know?” Suhung demanded.



“Use your brain, Suhung. Why would they be demanding more pay if the rates were fair? Why would they be causing issues if there wasn’t something to cause issues about?” Pakhari demanded.



Suhung didn’t have an answer to that.



“You haven’t even gone to visit the fish mongers since you ascended the throne. You haven’t visited anyone other than those recommended by Debera. You cannot continue like this.” She said.



“You must go and visit the fish mongers. You must hear from their own mouths as to why they are protesting.” She saw Suhung shift uncomfortably on the bed.



“You must lead the meeting with the Prince of Namrup tomorrow, not Debera. You must send a direct summons to Jambor Gohain.”



“You must lead.” She finished.



Suhung looked at her with pure terror in his eyes, and in that moment, she felt whatever she had actually thought of him wither away and die. That was not how a King was supposed to look.



“And you think this will work?” He asked, his voice small, like a child’s.



“Yes. You are the King; you must act like it.” Pakhari said.



Suhung took a deep breath then said. “Then I will.”



Pakhari nodded, though she knew her husband wouldn’t do anything unless pushed, so, she put both her hands to his chest and pushed him. He swayed slightly and looked at her questioningly.



“There is no point just saying you are going to do something. You must actually go and do it.” Pakhari said.



Suhung exhaled, then got up, the bed creaking slightly, he put one foot on the floor and then the other and moved away from the bed. Pakhari watched him go, knowing that she could not love him, but knowing that she would try and help him.



He looked at her then before he left their room and said. “I will become a King worthy of the title.”



Pakhari nodded and watched him as he left. The moment he was gone, she slumped against her pillow and picked up the letter she had been reading before all of this had started.



It was a letter from her sister in Delhi.



Azam has been ordered south by the Emperor. It seems that there is trouble arising from this man who calls himself Shivaji.



Azam does not know how long he will be away for, but he is confident that the campaign will end in success.



I do not know.



I have been having strange dreams of a never-ending war.



Of Ma Kali dancing on the bodies of millions of soldiers, of the collapse of the Empire.



I am frightened sister and I do not know what to do.



Pakhari put the letter down and sighed. Could a mere chieftain bring down an Empire that was protected by God himself? She did not know, and if she were being honest, she was not sure if she wanted to know.



But if it meant that the danger to her kingdom was lessened, then she would not mind.



If only she could find a way to protect her sister and her sister’s children. Perhaps that might be something she could ask of Suhung. If he would still want to grant her favours.

 

[Emperor of Greater India]

MWAHAHAHA!! Delhi tremble! Your end is nigh!

Actually pity the poor guy who Debera has trapped in his clutches, never trained for this responsibility and has been thrust into it to act as a mere sock puppet for someone else. While his enemies are actually righteous in their anger against him (his handler, but that's essentially the same by this point).

 

[VVD0D95]

MWAHAHAHA!! Delhi tremble! Your end is nigh!

Actually pity the poor guy who Debera has trapped in his clutches, never trained for this responsibility and has been thrust into it to act as a mere sock puppet for someone else. While his enemies are actually righteous in their anger against him (his handler, but that's essentially the same by this point).

Aha caught the foreshadowing eh.

And indeed Suhung is in way over his head

 

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 8: Darrang​

January 1675

​

Kalia walked down the slope, being careful not to go too quickly, he didn’t want to fall flat on his face after all and kept an eye on Mohanmala. The Brahmin had given him some very useful information about the Raja of Darrang and his brother, but whether that would be needed when they finally got down to talking, Kalia did not know.



Thankfully, despite being on an incline the ground was not rocky, and thus they were able to get to the bottom safely. Kalia took a moment to take in his surroundings. There were trees in distant corners, and a dim haze was coming from the camp, no doubt where soldiers or followers had started cooking meals.



He hoped that they would be received well. “You have the Buranji?” He asked Mohanmala.



“I do, Your Majesty.” Mohanmala replied. That Buranji would make things so much easier for them.



Kalia nodded then started walking toward the camp. He remained surprised that there weren’t more guards about. If he were an invading army, he’d have set upon the Raja and his men without them being the wiser to it, at least until it was too late.



But then, perhaps the Raja knew more about these lands than Kalia did. After all, if Kalia was correct, they weren’t actually too far from Kamrup. Maybe two or three days’ ride away. Maybe slightly more. That thought caused him to frown. How had it taken the Raja so long to travel such a short distance? The letter that Kalia’s uncle had sent out had been sent weeks ago. Surely the Raja should have travelled further than this?



“Halt!” Came a sharp voice. Kalia blinked and found himself standing a few paces away from two rather tall men. Both wore the distinct colours of the Raja, green and yellow, with their turbans being blue.



Kalia stopped and looked at them.



“Who are you?” One of the guards asked.



Kalia went to speak, but before he could get a word out, Mohanmala spoke, his voice deep and commanding. “I am Mohanmala Gosain, Chief Brahmin to His Majesty King Suklamphaa. I have come to give a message to His Highness the Raja of Darrang.”



The guard who had asked the question focused on Mohanmala. A moment passed and then another, then the guards looked at one another and then, the one who had spoken said. “Please follow me, Panditji.”



With that the guard turned and walked into the camp. Kalia looked at Mohanmala who smiled and then followed the guard. Kalia hastened after him. He walked slightly behind Mohanmala and whispered. “What are you doing?”



“We don’t know what direction the Raja’s loyalty is in. He won’t hurt a Brahmin though.” Mohanmala whispered. “Let me do the talking for now.”

Kalia grunted and fell silent. He spent the time looking around the campsite. There were men spread everywhere. Some were eating food over a fire, others were talking, and some were sharpening their weapons.



He supposed this was what a camp was like. Was the Raja preparing for war? Kalia wasn’t sure. When the original letter had gone out, he was sure the Raja had not thought anything unusual would have happened. But then why were his men sharpening their weapons?



His stomach rumbled slightly as they passed one part of the camp where something delicious was being cooked. They hadn’t had a proper meal for some time. Kalia pushed the thought away and focused on what was in front of him.



The guard had stopped and was speaking to another guard. The tent they were in front of was fairly nondescript, there was no evidence that anyone important was inside, but evidently there was, given that there were five guards around the tent. Five that Kalia could see anyway.



The two guards stopped conversing with one another, and the guard who had led them here walked into the entrance and said something. Clearly, he had been given the all clear for he appeared before them and said. “Panditji, please follow me.”



Mohanmala followed the guard, Kalia walked behind him. They stopped near the centre of the tent. Kalia could see that there were clothes, a bed, and some weapons about the tent. In its centre there was a broad table, with two people sat at it.



“Your Highness, I present Mohanmala Gosain, Chief Brahmin for His Majesty King Suklamphaa.” The guard said, bowing once then leaving the tent.



A man with a thick beard and light skin stood up then. Kalia saw he was somewhat heavyset. He walked around the table and grasped Mohanmala’s hand in his own. “Mohanmala, it has been some time. Please, have a seat.”



As if he had thought the chair into existence, one appeared on the other side of the table. Mohanmala sat in it, whilst the heavyset man took his seat again. Kalia stood behind Mohanmala.



“How might I be of assistance?” The heavyset man asked.



Mohanmala took a breath, Kalia wondered what he would say. The words that came from the man’s mouth surprised him then. “King Suklamphaa was murdered. Debera Borbarua had someone poison him. The Borbarua has now placed some puppet of his own choosing on the throne. However, before he died, the King named his nephew Kalia Gohain as his successor.” Mohanmala leaned down and pulled out the Buranji that confirmed this and placed it on the table.



The heavyset man looked at Mohanmala and then at the Buranji, he then picked it up and read it. When he had finished, the heavyset man looked at Mohanmala again and asked. “Where is Kalia Gohain now?”



Mohanmala laughed. “He is stood behind me.”



The heavyset man looked at Mohanmala and then at Kalia, he blinked and then the man got up and walked around the table before stopping before Kalia. The man looked at him, really looked at him and then whispered. “It’s as if I am staring at King Sunyatphaa’s ghost.”



The mention of his father made Kalia’s chest feel heavy.



The heavyset man knelt before Kalia then and said. “I, Biswa Singha, Raja of Darrang do hereby offer my fealty to you, Kalia Gohain, Dragon and Chosen of the Gods.” The man looked up at him then and asked. “How may I serve you, Sire?”



Kalia took a breath, he hadn’t expected this to happen so quickly. He had thought that he might need to do some sort of haggling with the Raja. But here he was looking down on the Raja, with the man asking him how he might serve him.



Eventually, Kalia found his voice. “Your men and your loyalty is what I ask for. It will not be easy to remove Debera Borbarua and his puppet, but it can be done.”



“Of course, Sire. They are yours.” Biswa Singha said.



“Rise.” Kalia commanded. The man rose. “I intend to head to Kamrup to bring the army there under my control and then to march on Garhgaon.”



Biswa Singha nodded. “A smart strategy. I can also gather more of my men to bring to Your Majesty’s side.”



“Good.” Kalia said.



“When does Your Majesty wish to set out for Kamrup?” Biswa Singha asked.



“Tomorrow.” Kalia replied. The sooner the better after all.



Biswa Singha nodded and said. “Tomorrow it shall be then, Your Majesty.”



Kalia felt a rush of energy at the man’s words. A sense of progress finally being achieved.

 

[Emperor of Greater India]

That was too easy. Trap?

 

[VVD0D95]

That was too easy. Trap?