The Visit to Ranbir Palace

The next day, Karan and his father boarded a carriage to visit Ranbir Palace, where many of Karan's industrial projects were underway. As they traveled, Karan decided to ask a question that had been on his mind for some time.

Karan: "Father, what do you truly think about the British?"

Hari Singh: looking out the window thoughtfully "Loyalty is not the same as blindness, Karan. I grew up in a time when the British were absolute, and aligning with them ensured stability. But times are changing. The world is at war, and the British are weaker than they once were. I cannot see the full picture of the future, but I see reason in your actions. You are building something greater, something that will secure our family and Kashmir's future. That is why I am supporting you."

Karan listened carefully, absorbing his father's words. He had assumed that Maharaja Hari Singh was blindly loyal to the British, but now he saw a different side—one that was pragmatic rather than subservient. His father understood that power dynamics were shifting, and while he might not act as boldly as Karan, he was not oblivious to the changing tides of history.

Karan: silent for a moment before nodding "Thank you for trusting me, Father."

They soon arrived at Ranbir Palace, where Mahadev Singh, Karan's butler, greeted them. He had arrived the day before to ensure everything was prepared.

Upon entering the main hall, they found 80 workers engaged in textile production. Karan led his father through the hall, explaining.

Karan: "These workers are producing clothes for our army. Half of the production will go to our soldiers, while the rest will be sold to the British for funding."

Hari Singh: examining the cloth "And what is this?"

Karan: "A new uniform design for our army. It is more durable and suited for Kashmir's climate."

The new design featured a dark green woolen tunic, reinforced with leather padding on the shoulders and elbows. The trousers were designed for flexibility, and the boots were sturdy for mountain terrain.

Hari Singh: impressed "This is well-made. Functional, yet carries a regal touch. Good work."

They then entered an isolated workshop, where the ringing of hammers on iron filled the air. Hari Singh's eyes widened in shock when he realized what was being produced.

Hari Singh: in a serious tone "Karan, you are manufacturing weapons? This is prohibited! The British will imprison us for this!"

Karan: "Father, this is for our army. If we present it to the British strategically, we might secure a weapons manufacturing license under the guise of aiding their war effort. With proper negotiations, we can legally supply arms to the British and selected buyers, ensuring a steady flow of funds for our own military expansion."

Hari Singh: "You think the British will simply approve it? They will likely see this as a direct threat to their control and accuse us of treason! They do not take kindly to native states arming themselves, especially without their oversight. If they perceive us as a risk, they will not hesitate to send troops to crush any resistance before it begins."

Karan paused, his mind racing. His father was right—outright weapons production would be too risky. The British would see it as a provocation, and they had the power to crush any perceived rebellion before it could take root. But then, an alternative emerged in his thoughts, a way to work within the system while covertly achieving his goals. After a moment, an idea struck him, one that could provide both legitimacy and a shield against suspicion.

Karan: "Then we start with mining explosives—we apply for a license to produce mining-grade gunpowder, officially for industrial and infrastructure projects. The British are heavily reliant on such materials for road construction and tunneling, so they will see it as a reasonable business move. We will sell the majority legally to avoid suspicion, but we will divert a portion in secret for manufacturing military-grade weapons."

He paused, ensuring his father was following his train of thought. "Additionally, we will set up a separate armament facility under a different name, one that produces and exports explosives for mining operations. This will give us an added layer of protection in case of inquiries. By the time the British realize what's happening, we will already have stockpiled enough weaponry to deter any interference."

Hari Singh: thinking deeply before nodding "That... could work. But you must be extremely cautious. If the British get even a hint of what you are doing, they will not hesitate to take action."

Hari Singh: thinking deeply before nodding "That... could work. But be careful."

Karan then demonstrated the newly crafted grenades and rifles, laying them carefully on a wooden table before his father. The grenades were compact but lethal, their metal casings rough yet functional. The rifles, modeled after European designs, had a sleek finish and were built for precision.

Hari Singh stepped forward, picking up a pistol with curiosity. He examined its weight, balance, and the craftsmanship before stepping onto the shooting range that had been set up inside the workshop. Lifting the weapon with steady hands, he took aim at a wooden target placed twenty meters away. He fired two shots in quick succession—the bullets pierced the target cleanly, leaving precise holes at the center.

Lowering the gun, Hari Singh turned to Karan, his expression a mixture of astonishment and approval. "This is remarkable," he said, nodding in admiration. "The grip is comfortable, the balance is excellent, and the accuracy is better than any weapon I have used before. You have truly achieved something extraordinary."

He glanced at Karan with a thoughtful expression before adding, "Can I have one for hunting?"

Karan chuckled, pleased with his father's reaction. "Once we finalize production and ensure reliability, you will be the first to receive one, Father. But for now, let us continue refining the designs. This is just the beginning."

Hari Singh: "This is remarkable. Can I have one for hunting?"

Karan: smiling "Once we finalize production, you will be the first to receive one."

After leaving instructions for Mahadev, Karan and his father departed, both realizing they had taken a major step towards securing Kashmir's.