Chapter 207: Fall of Baloch Part-5
Baloch region, Macch town outside of Bolan pass , night of 15th April 1557.
The full moon bathed the mountain ranges in a radiant glow, the fierce wind howling through the night.
On a high ridge, a wooden barricaded outpost was under construction, aimed at watching the Bolan Pass and the Machh Town, which had fallen into Mughal hands just days before. This newly built post was equipped with two cannons, designed to provide artillery cover against any attacks.
Inside the camp, ten soldiers lounged, their attention fixed on a card game while only two were stationed on guard duty, keeping a watchful eye on the pass.
One Mughal soldier stood, stretching. "I’m stepping out for a moment. Don’t you dare cheat while I’m gone."
"Don’t worry; it won’t make a difference," one replied.
"You can still play. No need to make excuses for your loss."
"Better just forfeit, brother. We know you’re not going to win."
His friends laughed, their jibes lighthearted but pointed, sensing his anxiety as he prepared to leave. He sighed, feeling the pressure, and stepped away.
"Make sure you’re not spotted by the officials," one friend called after him with a teasing tone.
Ignoring the warning, the soldier moved to relieve himself. But upon returning, he was struck by horror: his comrades lay lifeless, arrows piercing their bodies, blood mingling with the dust. Hooded figures scavenged their armor, armed with bows and swords.
Paralyzed with shock, the soldier turned to flee, but two arrows struck him in the back, and he collapsed, dead before he could cry out.