Chapter 160: Raid of Dutch Supplies part - 3
Dutch occupied Indian territory, outskirts of shimoga city, afternoon on 18th March 1557
The Dutch soldiers marched along the southern road leading to their newly established stronghold. The path was clear but narrow, flanked by thick forest on both sides. The breeze of wind was gentle amid the tall trees, which provided shadow and a peaceful journey, yet only for a time.
The Marathas were stationed on the western side of the road, hidden through the cover of thick forest and rocks as they lay in wait for their prey to arrive.
Soon, dust followed on the distant road, and the crunching sound of boots heightened their senses. They could see the banner of the Dutch flag being held by the frontline musketeers and a few horses at the side.
Captain Simha Bachkar, standing at the forefront of his men, held his left hand high, signaling his troops to remain still and ready. His 60 soldiers, a mix of archers, crossbowmen, and musketeers, were concealed behind trees and rocks, their weapons loaded and poised for action.
The Marathas were split into small squads, spread out across the terrain to cover the entire line of Dutch soldiers. Each squad was strategically positioned to cover the entire line. The Dutch, oblivious to the trap, simply marched through.
As the Dutch force crossed the halfway mark of the Marathas’ coverage, Simha’s hand dropped with a sharp whistle.
Swish!’
’Bang!’
Instantly, the forest exploded into action. Bowstrings snapped, crossbow levers clicked, and musket triggers were pulled in unison. The calm of the forest was shattered by the whistling of arrows and the booming of musket fire.
The ambushers were skilled marksmen with little room for error, striking many in the neck and unarmored parts of the body.
"It’s an ambush!"