Ch.25: Negotiations - II

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While Aryan was presenting the facts about the British rule in Bharat, another alarming situation was developing.

Hidden Headquarters of KAVACH, New Delhi, Bharat, October 6, 1942

In the dimly lit office of KAVACH, the elite defense organization of Bharat, Karna, the Assistant Director, was meticulously reviewing intelligence reports. The room was filled with the hum of advanced surveillance equipment, and the walls were adorned with maps and strategic plans. Karna's sharp eyes scanned the documents, his mind processing the vast amount of information about the security situation across the Indian subcontinent.

A knock on the door interrupted his concentration. "Enter," Karna commanded, his voice calm yet authoritative.

Rudra, one of KAVACH's top operatives, stepped in, carrying a thick file. "Sir, we have a situation," he said, his tone grave.

Karna looked up, his interest piqued. "What is it, Rudra?"

Rudra handed over the file while reporting the situation. "Sir, our latest intelligence indicates that Hydra, an organization based in Germany, is attempting to infiltrate Bharat. Their leader, Baron Zemo, is orchestrating the operation himself."

Karna's expression hardened as he flipped through the pages. "Hydra… I've heard about them. They promised several metahumans power and authority recently but were refused, thanks to Aryan's influence. What's the intelligence gathered so far about their motives in Bharat this time?"

Rudra, recalling an unpleasant encounter with a Hydra agent who had offered him power in exchange for betraying Bharat and Aryan, took a deep breath to calm his anger. "Sir, our agents managed to discreetly access Baron Zemo's plans. The information we gathered is alarming. Hydra plans to assassinate Captain America and the American diplomats while they are in Bharat. They intend to frame us for the attack, planting evidence to make it appear as though Bharat was responsible."

Karna's eyes narrowed dangerously. With a clenched fist wrinkling the papers in his hands, he remarked, "They seem to severely underestimate us, planning such an operation inside Bharat."

"The Americans have been supportive of Bharat until now, and such an incident would severely damage our relations and international standing."

Rudra nodded affirmatively. "Exactly, sir. We need to act swiftly to thwart their plans. Our operatives are already working on identifying Hydra's agents within Bharat. We must ensure the safety of Captain America and the diplomats."

Karna stood up, his resolve unwavering. "Mobilize all available resources. Increase security around the American delegation and coordinate with them. We cannot allow Hydra to succeed."

As Rudra left to execute the orders, Karna returned to his desk, his mind racing with strategies to counter the threat. The stakes were high, but he knew that KAVACH had the capability and determination to protect Bharat from any adversary.

New Delhi, Bharat, October 6, 1942

At the same time, in the meeting room, despite the alarming situation outside, the negotiations continued.

The silence in the room was palpable, the tension almost tangible. Sir Archibald Wavell, visibly shaken by Aryan Yadav's imposing presence and harsh truths, struggled to regain his composure. The British delegation exchanged uneasy glances, their arrogance now replaced with a mix of fear and frustration.

Aryan, having had enough of the silence, remarked harshly, "Do the British diplomats want more facts about the cruel nature of British rule in Bharat presented, or have we had enough of this charade?"

Peggy Carter, seeing the hesitation and fear of the British diplomats, decided to speak first. "Gentlemen, President Yadav has made clear some legitimate concerns of Bharat. We must ensure that Bharat is treated as fairly as possible. Also, we must remember that we are here to find a peaceful resolution. The world is at war, and unity among the Allies is crucial. Bharat's contributions are invaluable, and their demands deserve serious consideration."

Secretary Hull, a strong supporter of Roosevelt's campaign of freedom and democracy, nodded in agreement. "Indeed, the recognition of Bharat's independence and the return of their cultural artifacts and gold reserves are not just demands but rightful claims. The reparations, while substantial, are a necessary step towards justice and reconciliation."

Wavell, still reeling from Aryan's words, took a deep breath. "V-Very well, Mr. President, Mr. Patel. We acknowledge the injustices of the past. However, you must understand the sum you demand in reparations is beyond what we can agree to at this moment."

"We can guarantee that Bharat will get its recognition as an independent nation. We will also assure you of technological and educational exchanges, and all the other demands of Bharat, but we propose a phased approach, where reparations are paid over a period of time, allowing both our nations to rebuild and strengthen."

"As the war has had a significant impact on our economy, we cannot afford to pay such a huge amount of money in a short time."

Patel, his expression unyielding but with a hint of a smile, replied, "A phased approach can be considered, but the timeline must be reasonable, and the payments substantial enough to make a real difference. Bharat will not settle for token gestures."

Aryan, his presence still commanding the room, added in his authoritative tone, "And let it be clear, any delay or deceit in fulfilling these terms will not be tolerated. Bharat's patience has limits."

Captain America, who had been silently observing, finally spoke. "As a representative of the United States, I assure you that we will support Bharat's rightful claims. The fight against tyranny is not just against the Axis powers but against all forms of oppression."

Peggy Carter nodded. "Let's draft an agreement that reflects these terms. Recognition of Bharat's independence, a phased but substantial reparation plan, the return of cultural artifacts and gold reserves, the withdrawal of British troops, transfer of technology and knowledge, educational exchanges, and non-interference in Bharat's sovereignty. This will be a step towards true justice and a stronger alliance."

Wavell, realizing the inevitability of the situation, reluctantly agreed. With a heavy sigh, he said, "Very well. Let us proceed with drafting the agreement."

As the diplomats began to outline the terms, the atmosphere in the room shifted from one of confrontation to cautious optimism. The path to justice and reconciliation was being paved, and the future of Bharat as a sovereign nation was being solidified. The negotiations continued late into the night, with each side making concessions and finding common ground, driven by the hope of a better future.

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