The Division of Forces and Strategic Assembly

The camp was alive with activity as dawn painted the plains near Merta in hues of gold and orange. Soldiers hurriedly prepared their weapons, adjusted their armor, and exchanged quiet words of encouragement. Harsha stood at the heart of the assembly, his commanding presence drawing every soldier's gaze. Flanking him were Veerendra and Samundra, their expressions resolute as they awaited the prince's orders.

On a large table before them lay a map, its edges weighted down by stones. The parchment was marked with crude lines and symbols denoting strongholds, bandit hideouts, and critical regions. Harsha's hand moved decisively, tracing the borders of three key areas: Mand, Yodhey Pradesh, and Jungladesh.

"We will divide our forces into three groups," Harsha announced, his voice steady and authoritative. "Each group will consist of 300 soldiers. Veerendra, you will lead your men into Mand. Your mission is to rid the region of bandits preying on travelers. If you uncover a stronghold, seek assistance from the Bhati family. Their knowledge of the terrain will be invaluable."

Veerendra stepped forward, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword, and gave a firm nod. "Understood, Your Highness. I will ensure no bandit escapes justice."

Harsha turned to Samundra, his finger moving to another part of the map. "Samundra, your task is in Yodhey Pradesh. Clear the area of banditry and work with the Chauhan family. Should you face any difficulties, the royal commander stationed at the western frontier is at your disposal. He is overseeing the defenses against Arab incursions and can spare reinforcements if needed."

Samundra bowed slightly, his voice measured but firm. "I will not fail you, Your Highness. Yodhey Pradesh will be secured."

Finally, Harsha's gaze fell upon the dense forests of Jungladesh. "I will lead the third group into Jungladesh, where the bandits are deeply entrenched. The Jat clans have suffered long under their terror. I will work with their leaders to eliminate this menace."

Reaching into his pouch, Harsha retrieved three silver seals, each engraved with the royal crest. He handed one to each commander. "These seals grant you full authority to act in the crown's name. Use them with wisdom and discretion."

A Kingdom-Wide Vision

As the golden hues of the late afternoon sun bathed the camp, Harsha called Veerendra and Samundra again to a shaded area beneath a sprawling banyan tree. The rustling of leaves and the faint hum of activity provided a steady rhythm to their council. Harsha's finger traced the map with precision, his gaze sharp as he spoke.

"Veerendra," he began, "your mission in Mand does not end with clearing the region and working with the Bhati family. Once you have secured the area, you will return through Mandore, sweeping its lower regions for any remnants of banditry. From there, you will proceed to Mewar and collaborate with the Rana family. The Ranas have extensive experience dealing with incursions from the south. Use their expertise to restore order and fortify their defenses. Banditry thrives where governance weakens, and we cannot allow it to spread further."

Veerendra's expression hardened with determination. "As you command, Your Highness. I will ensure every corner of Mand and Mewar is secured."

Harsha shifted his attention to Samundra. "You, Samundra, will march directly from Yodhey Pradesh to Jainagara. The two regions share a border, and the Rao family's cooperation will be essential in securing the eastern flank. The Rajas of Jainagara are skilled in commerce. Their support will also bolster the trade routes that these bandits have disrupted."

Samundra's voice was steady as he replied, "Consider it done, Your Highness. The Rao family will have our full support in eliminating any threats."

Harsha's finger moved northward across the map, pausing over the upper regions of Mandore. "While you two are engaged in your tasks, I will lead my men through these hills and forests, clearing them of bandit activity. From there, I will move to Hadoti and work with the Hada family to restore stability to its villages. After Hadoti, I will tackle the Matsya region, ensuring that no corner of Rajputana remains infested by these leeches."

He straightened, his gaze steady. "Once your tasks are complete, we will regroup at Mandore. . in next some years, Rajputana will be free of banditry. This isn't just a campaign—it's a mission to cleanse the land and restore peace to our people."

Both Veerendra and Samundra nodded, their expressions reflecting the fire in Harsha's eyes.

Additional Instructions and Final Charge

Harsha unfurled a smaller parchment, revealing a series of symbols and motifs. "These," he explained, "are used by minstrel spies. They infiltrate villages to gather intelligence for the bandits, acting as both messengers and informants. Keep a vigilant eye for these signs as you move through your regions. Question anyone carrying them, but do so discreetly. These spies are elusive and quick to vanish."

His tone turned grave as he continued. "Villages near bandit-infested areas often cooperate out of fear. When you encounter such villages, approach with compassion. We are not here to punish the innocent but to liberate them."

Harsha's gaze sharpened as he added, "You must also watch for unusual activity near the mining sites. Royal miners and Dhurv's men are working in these regions to identify resources vital to our kingdom's future. Their safety is paramount. Ensure they remain unharmed."

As the sun dipped lower, casting long shadows across the camp, Harsha placed a hand on each commander's shoulder. "Veerendra, Samundra, we are not just fighting bandits—we are restoring faith in the crown. Lead with honor, strength, and wisdom. Trust your instincts, but always consider the bigger picture. Rajputana's future depends on our success."

Both men bowed deeply, their voices steady. "We will not fail you, Your Highness."

Harsha watched as they departed to ready their men. The weight of leadership pressed heavily on his shoulders, but it was a burden he bore with unwavering resolve. As he turned back to the map, he whispered to himself, "Rajputana will rise, united and strong. This is only the beginning."

The camp stirred to life as the three forces prepared to march. Banners fluttered against the twilight sky, signaling the dawn of a new era for the kingdom.

End of Chapter

to be continued ...