Chapter 102: Battle of Bawal Part -7
As the sun ray retreated in dusk, the dry wood forest was enveloped in darkness over time. Prince Aditya and his aides stood among the trees, surveying the vast open fields where the next siege battle was to take place.
From a safe distance, they could spot the assembly of siege towers in the flickering torchlight of the rebels. These giant structures cast an imposing presence on the vast open ground as the enemy began forming ranks. Meanwhile, the faces of those present bore a blend of resolve and concern.
"Who would have thought they could amass such a force?" Aditya murmured softly to himself with regret for his short-sightedness.
At that moment, Nilesh emerged from the shadowed depths of the forest. With a quick salute and slight bow, he approached the prince to convey the report.
"Sir, I bring report from the scout."
Aditya spoke without even looking at him. "Speak, Colonel," he commanded, "Let everyone hear it."
Nilesh straightened, his voice with little tense. "The enemy’s numbers exceed our estimates, sir. They are estimated no less than five times of our current strength."
A murmur of concern rippled through the ranks of Rajput’s standing behind, their faces reflecting the gravity of Nilesh’s words.
Aditya’s features hardened, his jaw grit in frustration as he absorbed the harsh reality before him. "Five times," he repeated quietly, pondering about the challenge in order to break through. "This is going to be very hard."
"What are your orders, sir?, " Nilesh spoke again interrupting his troubled thoughts.
Aditya turned Nilesh this time "Relay my orders, everyone is to stay on standby. Keep a close watch on the enemy moves especially their leaders."
Nilesh nodded sharply, acknowledging the order with a salute before swiftly departing to carry out his prince’s commands. As he vanished into the shadows, another voice broke through Aditya’s train of thoughts.