Chapter 210: Northern Imperial Corps
Punjab kingdom, in the outposts of Shivallik hills, afternoon of 19th April 1557.
As the morning sun bathed the rugged peaks of the Shivalik Hills in golden hues, the imperial outpost emerged as a bastion of strength for the Bhargav Samrajya. Originally established by the Mughals during the reign of its founding member, this outpost had transformed into a critical stronghold for the imperial corps, poised for an expedition into Kashmir.
The heart of the outpost was a small, fort-like structure built from sturdy stone walls, remnants of a bygone era under previous Islamic rulers. Now, it stood proudly adorned with the saffron flags of the Bhargav Samrajya, symbolizing Hemu’s dominance. Strategically positioned at the intersection of the routes to Lahore, Kashmir, and Delhi, this outpost was vital to the Punjab Kingdom.
An entourage of 5,000 soldiers, led by Commander Rudra, gleamed in their chain mail armor as they approached the outpost, the royal flag of Bhargav fluttering in the breeze. The guards saluted, allowing the army to pass through the wide iron gate that spanned a small bridge over a moat encircling the fortified territory.
This outpost had expanded beyond the original fort, serving as a temporary base for the Northern Imperial Corps. Here, soldiers trained and prepared before being deployed to defend the northern sector, while the small fort functioned as the command center. It was a post where 10,000 soldiers from Delhi and Punjab comprised the Northern Imperial Corps.
As Rudra made his way toward the command fort, he passed the training grounds, where soldiers executed drills with swords and spears, their movements synchronized like a well-rehearsed dance. Flanked by his subordinates, who carried the flag of the royal capital, he navigated through the throngs of imperial soldiers, receiving nods of respect as he passed, like a gentle breeze flowing through the ranks.
Reaching the front door of the fort lord’s chamber, Rudra paused for a moment before the door swung open. All military officials rose in unison, standing at attention to greet him. Inside, Zorawar Singh, the former commander and now fort lord, awaited him, already briefed on Rudra’s arrival.
Zorawar Singh, clad in chain mail armor, greeted Rudra with a broad smile. "It’s an honor to meet you, General Rudra Singh Chauhan. I can hardly believe you’ve made it to general! May I see the token of your insignia?"
Rudra nodded to one of his subordinates, who stepped forward to present the imperial token of authorization. A grin spread across Zorawar’s face as he accepted it.
As Zorawar handed over the seal of the fort, he saluted with a clenched fist to his heart. "For the Samrajya."
"For the Samrajya." Rudra reciprocated the same before taking the seal, which represented his lordship over the fort, and then continued warmly, "The pleasure is mine, old friend." He added with a playful grin, "My promotion is a reflection of my loyalty and expertise, unlike someone who’s favored by luck to remain a subedar all this time!"
Laughter erupted between them as they welcomed each other after their long separation. They had first met during Hemu’s conquest of Delhi; however, their paths diverged as military needs took them in different directions.