Aditya's base camp, 1st march 1557.

  As the first light of dawn settled on the open fields near the banks of the Sahibi river, the bodies of fallen soldiers, draped in stacks of wood, were consumed by the fire. Their sacrifice was honored in the ancient ritual of returning the body to the five elements through the purification of fire. Prince Aditya stood solemnly before the pyres, paying homage to his fallen soldiers.

  Behind him, his musketeers, royal guards, and crossbowmen stood in rigid lines, their faces reflecting a mixture of pride and sorrow.

  "Proud to serve under Prince Aditya. His respect for our fallen comrades shows his true leadership," one soldier murmured.

  "We'll never see another leader like him. This much respect is worth dying for," another agreed.

  The musketeers and guards felt a swell of pride and gratitude towards their prince. They murmured among themselves, moved by his personal involvement in the cremation ceremony. To the side, Pratap and his Rajput soldiers, equally disciplined, watched the ceremony with a deep sense of respect and internal conflict.

  "What is he doing? He is of royal blood."

  "Why is he treating them with so much respect?"

  While they respected the ceremony and the honor being shown to the dead, they couldn't help but feel a twinge of unease. Aditya's actions were a stark reminder of the differences in leadership styles and the expectations of loyalty and sacrifice.

  "Do you think we will get that kind of respect?"

  "Ssh! Lower your voice, someone can hear you."

  Some Rajputs questioned if their own leaders would show such personal respect, while others felt a renewed sense of camaraderie with Aditya's men.

  Prince Aditya stepped forward, his voice carrying over the crackling pyres and the hushed whispers of the soldiers.

  "Brave warriors," he began, "we gather here not just to mourn, but to honor the valiant souls who gave their lives for our cause. They fought with courage and dignity, and it is our duty to remember their sacrifice."

  He paused, allowing the weight of his words to settle.

  "War is a harsh and unforgiving mistress. It demands the highest price, often taking the best among us. But know this: their bravery will not be forgotten. Upon our return, a memorial will be erected in their honor which will be a testament to their valor. Their loved ones will know that their sacrifice was not in vain."

  Aditya looked over the assembled soldiers, meeting their eyes. "Their loved ones will be supported, their families will be honored. This is my vow to you all."

  His soldiers stood taller, their hearts swelling with pride and gratitude. The promise of a memorial and compensation for their families was more than just encouraging words. Knowing his nature and performance, they knew he meant what he just said.

  Working as mercenaries is a dangerous task, with a constant threat of losing life. They had to worry about their families' well-being if they were to die. But this pledge eased their worries, knowing their sacrifices were deeply valued and the prestige they had gained working under him was enough to wash away the stigma of being born in a lower caste. No one will look down on them, when they will hear the tales of today's battle.

  They pledged internally to y down their lives if the need arose. For them, he was not just a prince but the true heir to the throne. His soldiers felt an overwhelming sense of unity and purpose for the messiah, who has changed not only their life but their families altogether.

  Unbeknownst to the butterfly effect of his simple and small gesture, Aditya then called for a moment of silence which was never heard before.

  "Let us observe two minutes of silence in their memory," he said softly. "May their souls find peace in heaven, and may we find strength in their example."

  The entire assembly fell silent, heads bowed, the only sound the distant crackling of the fires. Each soldier, whether musketeer, guard, crossbowman, or Rajput, felt the profound weight of the moment. For two minutes, they stood united in grief and respect, a silent tribute to the fallen.

  On the other hand, Pratap and his men felt a deep respect for Aditya's leadership. Prince Pratap was genuinely moved by his genuine care for his soldiers, while others reflected on the nature of their own loyalties and the sacrifices they were willing to make.

  As the two minutes of silence concluded, Prince Aditya lifted his head, signalling the assembly to return to attention. With a deep breath, he addressed his soldiers once more.

  "Thank you all for joining me in this solemn tribute," Aditya said, his voice resonating with sincere gratitude. "You are all dismissed, and I thank you for your continued support and loyalty."

  The soldiers acknowledged his words with nods of respect and gratitude, and slowly began to disperse except one figure with turban, Balwindar who stood to his ground.

  As Aditya approached him for a talk, he was interrupted by Colonel Nilesh, who saluted him with a clenched fist to his heart and a slight nod.

  "Sir, I beg your attention for an immediate concern."

  Aditya turned and nodded which prompted Nilesh to continue, "The vilge is completely destroyed, sir. Enemy corpses are scattered across the ground, and the scale of destruction is immense. It requires significant cleaning before it can be made habitable again."

  "We're short on time, Colonel. We'll relocate the vilgers to a safer pce, and I'll ensure they receive compensation. Inform them to gather their belongings," Aditya said with a frown.

  Nilesh hesitated before responding, "The vilgers seem reluctant to leave. Many are volunteering to clear the debris themselves including the rotting corpses. They are desperate to return home."

  Aditya felt a pang of sadness, knowing his policy of taking no prisoners had left a mark.

  "Very well, let them stay. Send the crossbow battalion for protection. Assign Colonel Amit to take charge of the logistic team along to help. They will assist the vilgers in clearing the field and help them with appropriate compensation. I want a detailed report once they are settled," he replied after thinking for a while.

  Nilesh nodded but hesitated. Aditya noticed and asked, "Is there more? Is everything alright?"

  Nilesh replied with embarrassment, "Most of the women are causing a scene. It's getting difficult for our men to handle."

  Aditya felt conflicted. "Okay, I'll see what I can do. You may take your leave."

  "But sir, the host..." Nilesh's words were abruptly halted by Aditya's gesture of hand.

  "I have another urgent task to take care of. Meanwhile, ensure there is nothing cking in the hospitality treatment of our esteemed guest. I will pay him a visit ter," Aditya replied with a little annoyance.

  Nilesh saluted once more and then departed.

  Aditya then turned to Balwindar, who was waiting patiently. He patted Balwindar's shoulder in gratitude.

  "Your contribution has been invaluable, and I will honor our deal. You will have my full support in your quest for revenge against the Pakistani Sultanate. Bairam Khan will be brought to justice, but it will take time."

  For onlookers, it might have seemed comical to see a young man not even in twenties patting the shoulder of a seasoned warrior, but no one doubted Aditya's authority and charisma. However, Balwindar's worried expression conveyed something else.

  "What troubles you, Balwindar?" Aditya inquired, sensing his unease..

  Balwindar hesitated before speaking. "Your Highness, most of the rescued women and girls have lost their families. They were kidnapped from surrounding vilges for the sole purpose of the enemies' entertainment. Many are traumatized and even have suicidal thoughts after the viotions they suffered. They feel they have lost their dignity and their reason to live. Even our soldiers and their loved ones are struggling to console them."

  Aditya felt the tension in his chest tighten. He understood how serious the matter, Nilesh just reported. Rape was a grievous viotion, and its impact on these traditional commoners was profound. Even in modern times, such trauma often led to depression and lifelong scars.

  Balwindar continued, "There is one girl in particur whom I personally rescued. Even in her unconscious state, she has been murmuring your name. She is troubled, but there is something remarkable about her. She was the one who killed the Prince of Agra. I know it may be crossing a personal boundary, but I request you to exercise caution if you wish to meet her."

  Intrigued and concerned, Aditya nodded. "Alright! Lead the way."

  Balwindar bowed slightly and guided him towards the camp where the girl was treated along with the other injured.

  Inside the Camp

  The camp area buzzed with activity as rescued vilger gathered around makeshift tents and open spaces. In one corner, a makeshift medical area had been set up where injured survivors were being tended to by regional medics.

  Shweta, a skilled medic and trusted companion of Balwindar, was carefully attending to Priya's wounds, applying herbal paste to the scratches on her limbs.

  Suddenly, a hush fell over the area as Prince Aditya made his way through the camp.

  Every medical assistant stood up in respect as he passed by, acknowledging his presence with a silent nod of gratitude. Aditya gestured for them to continue their work and made his way over to where Priya was being treated.

  As he approached, Shweta stood up in respect, introducing Priya to the prince. Initially, Priya remained unresponsive, lost in a dazed state. Sensing her hesitation, Shweta gently nudged her, saying, "Look, it's Prince Aditya, the one you wanted to meet."

  At the mention of Aditya's name, Priya snapped back to reality. Overwhelmed by emotions, she lunged towards him in a fury "Why are you so te? They killed my mother, my father, even Raju. Those monsters tore at my flesh every day and night."

  She clung to his clothing and started sobbing. "People called.. you the empire's hero, who brought reforms and happiness. My baba.. believed we would be safe under your rule. My brother wanted to be.. like you, but you didn't come.. we needed you. So many people were killed. Where were you? Why didn't... come earlier? Why now? What kind of hero... you?" she cried out, her voice choked with grief and anger.

  Balwindar, fearing that Priya might harm herself or others, moved to separate her from Aditya. However, Aditya signalled for him to stop, understanding that Priya needed to release her pent-up frustration.

  He allowing her to cry into his chest without moving an inch. He knew that suppressing her emotions would only lead to further mental anguish. He replied calmly without moving from his pce.

  "I'm sorry for what you've been through, Priya. No one should have to endure such horrors. I know it may not seem like it, but we've been doing everything we can to protect our people. Sometimes, things don't go as pnned, and innocent lives are lost."

  Priya's calmed down a bit after letting out her anguish. She understood he was her savior but the loss of her family was too much for her to accept as in reality. Her voice trembled with emotion. "But they killed.. family! What wrong did they.. to face it!"

  Understanding their need for privacy, both Shweta and Balwindar discreetly left the area, leaving Aditya and Priya alone.

  For a moment, he felt like patting her as a show of empathy, but knowing the difference in custom of era, he crossed his hands behind his back and replied in a gentle voice.

  "I understand your pain, Priya. It's natural to feel helpless and angry in times like these. But I promise you, we're here now, and we won't let any more harm come to you or anyone else"

  Priya's tears flowed freely as she struggled to find soce burying her face in his chest. "But what about justice? Will those responsible for our suffering be punished?"

  Aditya's eyes reflected deep empathy. "Justice has been served, Priya. Those who were responsible are now being feasted by crows and vultures in the fields as of now we are talking. Their limbs are torn, and their heads are beheaded. Their remains will be buried six feet under the ground by tonight."

  Priya's voice wavered as she clinged his clothing tighter without looking at him. "But is that enough? Will it bring back my family? What purpose do have in my life now," she inquired with a low voice

  Aditya's tone softened, his tone gentle offering relief like ice on the wound " No, it won't bring them back, but it's a start. We will continue to seek justice and ensure that no one else suffers as you have. "

  He added for motivation, "Also, your life's role does not end here. You can become a beacon of hope to other women. I am pnning to support you in your efforts, including helping the women who have suffered a simir fate. I know it must be hard, but start a good life with a fresh start and make your family's legacy proud. Think about them; they must be watching you."

  Priya felt very comforted by the prince's words. She was deeply touched by his concern and noted that he did not try to take advantage of her or touch her. No one had ever been so sweet to her, and given his status, he didn't need to pretend. Her initial opinion that all men were bad changed after meeting him. She felt ashamed of her earlier behavior and found a renewed reason to live.

  Priya sank to her knees, her desperation palpable as she pleaded to Aditya. "Please, Your Highness. Forgive me for my rudeness. Please take me in for your service. I want to fight. I want to make a difference. "

  Aditya observed her with a mix of admiration and concern, understanding the depth of her pain. He was not against the idea of a women warrior regiment and Raamya had already proven its worth but in general, it was not within the current norms and would be challenging to implement.

  "You're still young, Priya. You need time to heal and think clearly."

  Priya's desperation turned to determination, her gaze unwavering as she voiced her resolve. "But I have no purpose in life now, prince. No one will marry me in my present state. I want to become strong and fight for others so that no other Priya like me has to suffer the simir fate. Didn't you want me to make my parents proud? Please grant me this chance."

  Aditya's expression softened, impressed by her courage and determination.

  "Your conviction is commendable, Priya. But a warrior's life is a path filled with thorns. Are you ready for the challenge? It won't be easy."