The Catalyst

Patwardhan Mansion, Vijayanagara Empire. 

The mansion was brimming with energy as the preparations to march to the capital were underway. Harsha was to march directly to Hampi as the Patwardhan's set out to Mangalore. The biggest battle of the civil war was yet to happen. 

The news of Nayaka's joining the war did take the Empire by storm. The merchant unions and local nobles were now very frustrated, not knowing the truth behind the direct intervention by the Patriarch of Nayakas.

The main reason behind the skepticism was because the Nayakas had destroyed armies belonging to both factions. Rumors of the Nayakas taking over the throne when the Emperor was in coma were spreading like wildfire.

"Are the preparations complete?" asked Harsha.

"Yes, Your Highness," said Viswa, looking at the men adjusting the supplies.

Raj Patwardhan approached Harsha. He looked ready, donning his noble commander armor, and a sword hung on his waist.