Chapter 79: The Dutch Mobilization

Chapter 79: The Dutch Mobilization

The Dutch, Netherlands.

In the Present time, the Dutch Republic operated under a republican form of government with a decentralized structure. The country didn't have a single centralized head of state or government like a modern president or prime minister. Instead, it is a federation of semi-autonomous provinces, each with its own government and leadership.

The highest office in the Dutch Republic is that of the Stadtholder, held by various members of the House of Orange-Nassau, including William II of Orange at the present time. However, the Stadtholder's powers and authority could vary depending on the political climate and provincial policies. The political system in the Dutch Republic emphasized republican and oligarchic elements, involving the Estates-General and the States of each province in decision-making.

So, during the present era, there wasn't a single "head of the Dutch," but rather a complex system of government involving multiple provinces, city-states, and various officials.

If Vijay were to examine the Dutch governance structure during this period of time, he might be surprised by the similarities it shares with the European Union in future generations.

In Batavia (modern-day Jakarta, Indonesia):

Hendrik van Rheede, the current manager of the Dutch East India Company (VOC), called for a meeting with the company's shareholders to discuss the impending war against the Vijayanagara Empire in South India. Earlier that morning, he had received news that General Carel Regyniersz was well-prepared for the upcoming invasion, with all weapons and ammunition successfully delivered, and the men ready for the march.

The shareholders eagerly gathered at the main branch in Batavia, driven by the prospects of India's wealth, spices, and the vast fertile lands in the region. They were frustrated that such riches were in the hands of what they considered a nation of lowly barbarians. Capturing the Vijayanagara Empire would not only grant them access to a vast subcontinent with immense wealth but could also open up significant commercial markets for their country. Just thinking about the prospects made their mouths water.

"Gentlemen"

Today, we stand on the cusp of destiny, on the brink of a battle that will be remembered throughout the ages. We are far from our homeland, facing a godless enemy, the Vijayanagar Empire. But let me tell you this: we are warriors of the sea, conquerors of distant lands, Men of God, and we fear no challenge.

Look around you, at the comrades beside you. We are a brotherhood forged by hardship and courage. Our resolve is unyielding, our hearts are fearless, and our spirits indomitable.

These lands may be unfamiliar, the people and their customs blasphemous, but remember why we are here. We are here for glory, for the honour of our nation, and for the riches that await those bold enough to claim them.

Know this, my brave soldiers: victory is within our grasp. The courage that flows through our veins is our strongest weapon. Let it be known that the Dutch Republic is the Overlord of the Seven Oceans. We conquer it!

Today, we fight not only for glory, wealth, and land but for the generations that will follow. We fight for the dream of a better world, where our flag flies high and our legacy endures.

Now, to your stations! Draw your swords, prime your guns, and brace yourselves for the battle of a lifetime. Onward, my valiant warriors, to glory and triumph!"

The general's speech ignited a surge of morale among all the soldiers in the military camp. Nearly five brigades marched in perfect formation toward the harbour, where they would board the transport ships for their upcoming mission. These transport ships were accompanied by the formidable man-of-war battleships, providing both protection and a sense of resolve as they set sail toward their destination.

But unknown to anyone, a dark shadow in the harbour saw this scene with his very own eyes. This figure was none other than Selvan. After he started working as a spy, he found out that he was very talented at this job. He could identify various information that normal people wouldn't see accurately, and he had made a lot of personal connections in the harbour, which allowed him to know everything that happened hear. Even a petty fight couldn't escape his eyes and ears.

Seeing the Dutch mobilizing a large army, Selvan knew that the Dutch were finally making their move. He quickly collected all the information he had been procuring for the past 3 to 4 months and sent it as a top-priority message to the department head, urging them to relay it to the main headquarters in the empire as soon as possible.

That very night, a small boat set off from Northern Lanka and headed to Rameshwaram. Due to the shorter distance of roughly 20 km, the news was able to reach Vijayanagar within a day.

Roshan, The SpyMaster, who received the news, knew that it was a big deal, so he quickly packed up the remaining work, filed the documents, and left to meet Vijay personally. Because The Dutch were coming...