Capítulo 28: Deal with the Portuguese

Diego de Sousa hailed from a prestigious noble Sousa family in Portugal, with a long history of service to the crown. Raised in the corridors of power and privilege, Diego was groomed from a young age to uphold the family's legacy and advance its interests on the global stage.

Despite his aristocratic upbringing, Diego's ambitions extended far beyond the confines of his noble lineage. Eager to make a name for himself and expand his family's influence, He seized upon an opportunity presented by the Portuguese Admiral to embark on a mission in Sri Lanka.

In the wake of their defeat by the Vijayanagara Empire, the Portuguese faced a stark reality. Retreating from India's western coast, they somehow managed to gather control in Sri Lanka, hoping to salvage their waning influence. Their rule in Goa was marred by exploitation and arrogance, blindsiding them to the Dutch threat.

Faced with the prospect of annihilation, the Portuguese were compelled to swallow their pride and seek sanctuary under the protection of the Samrajya. Desperate times called for desperate measures, and they were willing to risk everything in exchange for a lifeline to survival. If maritime route for east is actually cut off then they will have to actually surrender under the influence of Spain and loose their independence in process of merger.

Rumours swirled among their ranks, whispers of Dutch expansion into the far reaches of the East, threatening to engulf them in a merciless tide of conquest. With their backs against the wall, they knew they had no choice but to throw themselves at the mercy of their Samrajya , gambling their future on a precarious alliance born out of necessity with no matter the stakes .

Tasked with establishing re-connections in India and exploring opportunities for trade, gather supplies and seek protection for their maritime routes in east, Diego saw this assignment as a chance to prove himself and secure his place in the annals of Portuguese history. With determination and ambition driving him forward, Diego set sail for the distant shores of the Indian subcontinent, eager to leave his mark on the world.

As Diego arrives in India and immerses himself in the bustling markets and vibrant cultures of the region, he quickly realizes the immense potential for trade and commerce. However, it soon becomes apparent that navigating the intricate webs of Indian politics and diplomacy will require more than just business acumen.

It is during one of the diplomatic gatherings that Diego first encounters Prince Aditya, the enigmatic ruler whose innovative strategies and diplomatic prowess leave a lasting impression on him. Intrigued by the prince's approach and sensing an opportunity to further Portuguese interests, Diego resolves to forge a connection with him.

As Prince Aditya unveils his modern diplomatic strategies during the meeting, the Portuguese diplomat, Diego de Sousa, listens intently, his expression a mix of surprise and intrigue. The words of Prince Aditya paint a picture of innovative diplomacy, one that surpasses the traditional methods known to Diego and his counterparts.

Diego exchanges a glance with his fellow envoy, a silent acknowledgment passing between them of the significance of what they're witnessing. Prince Aditya's approach is not only unexpected but also highly effective, potentially reshaping the geopolitical landscape in ways they hadn't anticipated.

While Diego harbors a sense of admiration for Prince Aditya's ingenuity, a flicker of concern tugs at the edges of his thoughts. 'What implications might these new tactics hold for Portuguese interests in the region? Will they strengthen rival alliances or disrupt established trade routes that Portugal relies upon?'

With his family's legacy and the future of Portuguese trade at stake, Diego sets his sights on building a relationship with Prince Aditya. Overall he grasped the idea that the prince is not an easy person to tackle.

With a sense of determination, Diego resolves to engage Prince Aditya in candid dialogue, seeking to understand the motivations behind his tactics and explore potential areas of collaboration or negotiation. As he enters the prince's chamber, he braces himself for a conversation that promises to shape the future of Portuguese diplomacy in the region.

** Current scene at Prince's private chamber **

In the opulent chambers of Prince Aditya's palace, adorned with tapestries and flickering torchlight, the atmosphere was thick with anticipation as Prince Aditya awaited the arrival of Diego de Sousa, the Portuguese envoy. As the heavy doors swung open, Diego entered, his regal attire betraying his noble lineage. Aditya rose to greet him, a polite yet guarded expression on his face.

Diego's gaze swept the room before settling on Aditya, a confident smile gracing his lips. "Your Highness, it is an honor to be received by the esteemed prince of Samrajya," he began, his voice smooth and persuasive.

Aditya returned the greeting with a nod, gesturing for Diego to take a seat at the ornate table laden with maps and parchments. "Likewise, Senhor (sir in Portuguese) de Sousa. I trust your journey was without incident?"

Diego inclined his head graciously. "Indeed, Your Highness. I come bearing tidings of opportunity that may be of mutual benefit to our respective interests."

Aditya's interest piqued, he motioned for Diego to continue, his expression betraying a hint of curiosity. "Please, enlighten me, Senhor de Sousa. What proposition do you bring?"

Diego leaned forward, his eyes alight with enthusiasm. "Your Highness, I propose a strategic partnership between Samrajya and the Portuguese Empire, centered around the bustling port of Chittagong in Bengal."

Aditya's brow furrowed slightly, his mind racing as he considered the implications of such an alliance. "Chittagong is a vital artery of trade in the region and also the most suitable naval port we currently hold in our empire," he mused aloud. "What do you propose we gain from this arrangement?"

Diego, with a tone of confidence, addressed Prince Aditya, "Your Highness, I propose to offer our superior arquebuses to the Samrajya. These advanced weapons surpass your current arsenal. Additionally, we can provide our 10-pound cannons with a range of 800 to 1000 yards (730 to 910 meters)."

Aditya remained silent, his gaze fixed on Diego, prompting him to continue. Sensing the need to impress, Diego pressed on, "Furthermore, we extend our naval expertise to bolster Samrajya's maritime capabilities. Together, we could dominate the seas and unlock untold wealth."

Aditya, crossing his fingers, inquired, "And what, may I ask, does our esteemed new partner seek in exchange for these favors?"

Diego's smile widened, sensing Aditya's interest. "Your Highness, we seek exclusive trading rights to Chittagong for foreign merchants, both now and in the future. Additionally, we request the development of this port and others under Samrajya's jurisdiction, with land rights for our officials. As for arms, we require payment in gold or silver," he concluded, satisfaction evident in his grin.

Aditya: "Ha! Ha! Ha! HA! HA! HA!"

Diego: "Ha! Ha! Ha! ....."

Aditya couldn't contain his amusement, bursting into laughter. Diego joined in, masking his discomfort. When Aditya finally spoke, his tone softened but carried a hint of warning. "Senhor de Sousa, do you take me for a fool? My father taught me better than to enter into a lopsided deal."

Diego's heart skipped a beat, sweat forming on his brow. Aditya continued, his grin smug, "We are indeed interested, but not on your terms."

Aditya's retort came swiftly, his tone incredulous. "You wield matchlocks and yet offer arquebuses? You possess 12-24 pound cannons but peddle only 10-pounders to us? Not equitable, Senor de Sousa."

Diego's eyes widened in surprise at Aditya's astute observation. "How... how do you know that?" he stammered, visibly shaken.

Aditya, maintained his composure, sneering inwardly from his past historical knowledge, passed Diego a jug of water. "The method is inconsequential. What matters is, isn't it true?" he queried calmly.

Diego accepted the jug, downing its contents in a single gulp, wiping the sweat from his forehead in agitation.

Aditya's response was firm and decisive. "We require 5,000 matchlocks, the ones you presently possess, and five hundred 12-pound field cannons and required 18-pound to 24-pound naval cannons for two galleons (large ship), four carracks (medium ship), and ten caravels (light ships). Additionally, we wish to purchase 10 light warships, crafted within the Samrajya, and employ your shipbuilders for our forthcoming naval academy."

Diego's panic was palpable as he objected, "Your Highness, we cannot part with those weapons. They are our security."

Aditya's retort was unwavering. "Perhaps you've forgotten that you're the one in need of us, not the other way around. We'll hold no talks unless on equal terms. Furthermore, the atrocities your people committed earlier have left us with little trust."

Diego swallowed hard, realizing the gravity of the situation, with his admiral's words echoing in his mind. Prince Aditya's reassurance brought some relief. "Don't worry, we will treat you well," Aditya said. "For the matchlocks, we offer 50 gold each, 500 gold for each 12-pound cannon, 700 gold for each 18-pound cannon, and 1,000 gold for each 24-pound cannon. Additionally, we will pay 5,000 gold for each new warship, with extra compensation for each cannon. For a galleon, we are willing to pay 20,000 gold, for a carrack, 10,000 gold, and for a caravel, 5,000 gold."

Aditya continued, his tone resolute. "You will also have the right to attend our new weapon exhibition, where I'm certain you will be satisfied. Furthermore, except for the warships, I expect all arms to be ready within 3 months. You will also train my company's escort soldiers in your style. Should you require mercenary services against the Dutch, we are closer to your aid than your distant lands."

Then with a chuckle he added, "And for trade you will be treated same as any of our alliance member with nothing less or nothing more extra. First build trust, then you shall be rewarded."

Diego felt a mixture of relief and apprehension. While the prices offered were twice the normal selling rate in Europe, promising substantial profits, the prospect of leaking technology even with slight alteration to lower model and maintaining equal shares with indigenous people troubled him deeply. With little choice, he nodded and signed the treaty with Prince Aditya, aware of the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead.

With the deal finalized and the last foreign delegate escorted out, Aditya breathed a sigh of relief. The situation had unfolded favourably, thanks in part to his knowledge from his past life, propelling technological advancements at an unprecedented pace under his sole control saved him a lot of time in his plans for his company. Negotiating with the Portuguese had been challenging, but Aditya's upper hand had made the impossible possible.

Despite his satisfaction with the outcome, Aditya couldn't shake off the lingering uncertainties of the geopolitical landscape. As he pondered the potential variables outside, hunger gnawed at his stomach, prompting him to seek solace in the royal dining room.

However, upon entering, his hunger was instantly forgotten as he laid eyes on Raamya, who awaited him with a spread of delectable dishes. Yet, his attention was drawn not only to the sumptuous feast but also to Raamya's attire. Her intentional choice of a saree accentuated her curves, the deep cleavage of her ample bosom impossible to ignore.

The sight puzzled Aditya. After a day filled with gruelling meetings, he had looked forward to a peaceful meal, only to be greeted by Ramya's suggestive attire. Despite his confusion, a sense of unease crept over him as he wondered about her ulterior motives.

*************************

Author's Request

*************************

Dear readers,

I hope you're enjoying the journey we're embarking on together. I wanted to take a moment to seek your valuable feedback. Recently, a close friend of mine directly commented on the book cover. She prompted me to reflect on its impact. Your opinions matters to me, so please share your thoughts honestly. Should we consider a change? Perhaps an anime-style or cinematic cover? Detailed suggestions are welcome! Your silence will be taken as a sign of trust. Thank you for your continued support, and don't forget to vote! 😊