DooDBoY

Harsh, a modern-day science student, is thrown into the era after the Mauryan Empire’s fall when an experiment with quantum fields goes wrong. Born as a minor noble, he faces a world bound by rigid traditions, religious conflicts, and a caste system so ingrained that the oppressed see rebellion as immoral.

His modern ideals meet constant resistance, not just from the elite but also from those he wishes to help. As internal and external threats push the empire toward chaos, Harsh must decide—will he change history, or will it change him?

Ashes of mauryan empire

Harsh stood over the fallen warrior, his breath steady. His hand throbbed from where he had caught the blade, a thin line of blood trickling down his palm. But that pain was nothing compared to what he had just realized.

He wasn't just stronger. He was something beyond normal.

He looked at the noblewoman again. She had hidden her surprise well, but he had caught it—that fleeting moment where her careful mask had cracked.

And he wasn't sure if it was for better or worse.

The old noble finally stood from his seat, his voice carrying across the courtyard.

"A fine display." His tone was unreadable. "A mind for war and a body fit for battle. An uncommon combination."

Harsh met his gaze. He knew what the noble was thinking—this man was useful, but also dangerous.

Too dangerous to be left unchecked.

"I assume you will not refuse further training?" the old noble continued.

Harsh bowed slightly, controlling his expression. "If it pleases the court."

The old noble smirked. "A wise answer."

The crowd began to disperse, murmurs filling the air. Some nobles looked at him with newfound respect. Others with fear.

Harsh clenched his fists. He had passed their test.

But in doing so, he had made himself a target.

That evening, Harsh found himself summoned to the noblewoman's chambers once more.

She sat by the window, watching the flickering city lights below. A carafe of wine rested on the table beside her, two goblets already filled.

"You surprise me," she said without turning around.

Harsh took a seat across from her. "I didn't intend to."

He exhaled. "And what does this change?"

She finally looked at him, her dark eyes sharp. "It changes everything."

Then, she leaned forward slightly. "Do you know what they are saying about you?"

Harsh met her gaze. "That I am dangerous."

A slow nod. "Yes. But more than that—they are afraid you are something unnatural."

She studied him carefully. "That strength—it is not normal. And the old ones, the ones who whisper of gods and demons, they will start to wonder. They will ask questions."

Harsh frowned. "I won a fight. That shouldn't be enough for them to—"

She laughed softly, shaking her head. "You don't understand, do you?"

She picked up her goblet, swirling the wine. "You are an anomaly. A man with no great lineage, no divine right, yet you wield both intelligence and strength. That makes you a threat."

Harsh leaned back, considering her words.

He hadn't just proven himself. He had shattered their understanding of what was possible.

"What would you suggest?" he asked finally.

Harsh exhaled. "I assume you have someone in mind?"

She took a sip of her wine before answering. "Perhaps."

Then, she set down the goblet and leaned forward. "But first, I need to know something."

She studied him for a long moment.

Not because he didn't know the answer—but because he had never said it aloud before.

Her lips parted slightly, surprise flickering across her face.

19. The weight of power