Chapter 129: Glimpse of Tyrant?
Rewari kingdom, Khera village , Night of 8th march 1557
After securing the area and confirming the victory, Aditya ordered his forces to capture the defeated survivors, secure the villagers, and douse the flames. Despite their best efforts, much of the village lay in ruins, consumed by the blaze.
Damage reports revealed the heavy toll on Aditya’s elite guards, with only 67 out of 100 surviving due to their lack of proper armor. The crossbowmen suffered the loss of 10, and the musketeers, 22. The police militia, though valiant, was reduced from 40 to 26 due to their limited training.
The villagers, though devastated by the destruction of their homes, found relief in Aditya’s promise of rehabilitation. The prince’s personal sacrifice and involvement to their welfare inspired hope despite the losses.
The loss of life was felt deeply, particularly among those who had lost loved ones in the police militia. Yet, the community’s faith in Aditya remained steadfast.
Meanwhile, a gruesome interrogation of the captured enemy soldiers revealed that the attack had been orchestrated by the orthodox faction led by Acharya Sukhdev, who sought vengeance against Aditya.
With the situation dire, Aditya decided to take decisive action. He took Bheem with him to lead the remaining 28 cavalrymen and instructed Princess Meenakshi to stay behind and oversee the remaining soldiers until reinforcements arrived. Though Meenakshi agreed, her skepticism lingered.
Before Aditya and Bheem departed, Meenakshi approached Aditya with worry. "Prince, you’re heading into danger. I hope you know what you’re doing. Don’t forget that the fate of many rests on your decisions."
Aditya nodded in understanding. "Thank you, Princess. Your support has been invaluable. Rest assured, I’ll take care of it."
He refrained from explaining much, not wanting to drag her into the dirty details and reveal his ugly side. He knew her plea was for mercy but history has taught never to show any as those who tried weren’t any wiser. He had already extended enough mercy, and offering more to someone who had tried to kill him would be a fatal judgment. He knew these snakes would take it for granted, and there might not be any next time.