Chapter 170: Emperor’s Duty
Rewari Kingdom, Khera village, morning of 26th march 1557.
The sun cast a soft glow on the village as Emperor Hemu and General Shadi Khan, both in the guise of traveling merchants, made their way through the vibrant market of Khera.
Wrapped in simple shawls, with turbans on their head, they appeared as ordinary travellers. A small unit of disguised royal guards kept a vigilant watch from a distance.
As they approached the village, Hemu’s attention were drawn to a newly constructed canal , nourishing the crops. "A canal? This wasn’t here before," he murmured.
Shadi Khan, walking slightly behind as fellow traveller, nodded in agreement. "Seems there’s been development in these parts, Your Majesty."
The makeshift tents of traders and merchants clustered near the village borders caught their attention. Carts and carriages bustled about, and a group of police trainees practiced with crossbows nearby.
Further in, soldiers in blue uniforms with muskets in hand, were spotted patrolling few areas.
As they entered the bustling streets of the village, they got impressed by the organised layout.
"This village is growing rapidly," Hemu commented.
Clean drainage systems and public toilets dotted the corners, with caretakers charging small fees for their use. It resembled a town on the rise more than a humble village.
"Remarkable," Shadi Khan muttered, scanning the surroundings. "But why here? This place wasn’t even notable the last time we passed through."
As they made their way through the market, Hemu’s gaze shifted to the stalls brimming with goods, particularly those selling soap.. one of the village’s renowned products. Police guards patrolled, armed with repeating crossbows, while a few elite soldiers wearing armor and carrying lantern shields stood watch, overseeing the rangers.