A Warrior's Saga

Chapter 3.

Next day (morning):

Rudra and Mahendra were selecting the men who would accomany them to the battle.
"Why is the Maharaj helping those tribesmen who never cooperate with us?" Rudra said.
"Because the pact says so!"
"The pact also says that they pay an annual tax. Last year they got it liesed by making petty excuses ."
"Leave it, the King has ordered us, and we are bound to follow it," Mahendra said, "Which weapon would you take?"
"You know my choice." Rudra said proudly.

Mahendra believed in attack more than defense and his weapons clearly stated so. He used duel swords and no shield. Handling both the swords was not easy but years of practise made Mahendra perfect in executing killer swings with both the hands.

Rudra used a rather unorthodox weapon. It had appreance of a long spear but instead of one pointed head, it had three. He called it Trishul or trident. The trishul was made of hardened iron and was heavier than a battle axe. Rudra also had the end of the rod sharpened to perform a back-kill if necessary. On the body was encarved: "Dharma-Truth-Honour"

After doing all the necessary arrangements, Mahendra, Rudra and Anumak mounted on their horses. There were 180 armored horsemen accompanying them.