Chapter 11 - Night Reckoning

As we continued our journey back to the city, the darkness of the night enveloped us. The city gate loomed ahead, guarded by vigilant sentinels who had no way of knowing what had transpired in the forest. They were surprised at the sight of Chetak and moved to block our path.

"Who goes there?" one of the guards called out, raising his spear cautiously.

I stepped forward, my voice carrying authority. "I am Leela, the Lord of KalaVijay. Step aside."

The guards, realizing their mistake, quickly and profusely apologized. With a respectful nod, they stepped aside, allowing us to pass through the city gate.

"Before we continued on our way, I took a moment to address the guards. 'The scream you heard was from this boy,' I explained, gesturing towards the rescued 16-year-old. 'See to it that he receives proper care. Spread the news that the Black Boar has been slain, and bring the beast into the city. We'll use its hide for our skilled artisans, and any meat that remains can be offered to the hungry if they wish to partake. The rest can be disposed of responsibly.'"

The guards nodded in acknowledgment, their faces reflecting the understanding that our town had been spared from the menace of the Black Boar. With that, we made our way into the city, leaving the forest and its secrets behind us.

We continued our journey through the lively city streets until we reached the Guard's Stables, where we decided to leave our horses. Rama, accompanied by his loyal companion Chetak, shared a quiet moment. He whispered reassuring words to his horse, promising to return early in the morning. Chetak, understanding his master's intentions, nuzzled Rama affectionately.

With a final pat on Chetak's mane, Rama joined us as we left the stables, ready to explore the vibrant heart of KalaVijay.

I turned to Rama and asked, "Have you ever explored our city, Rama? There's so much to see and experience here, especially at night."

Rama, his eyes filled with curiosity, replied, "No, Leela, this is my first time. Your town is truly magnificent."

With Rama by my side, we ventured deeper into the heart of KalaVijay, the night unfolding before us with the promise of discovery and adventure. The moonlight illuminated our path as we walked through the streets, experiencing the town's unique charm in each step.

Turning my attention to the two men who had accompanied us through the forest, I expressed my gratitude. "Your bravery and support during our journey did not go unnoticed. My gratitude shall be conveyed to your houses."

The two men exchanged glances. "It was our duty and honor, Lady Leela," one of them replied. "We are at your service whenever you need us."

With their promises to continue serving our town, they, too, departed for the night, leaving the palace courtyard bathed in moonlight and silence.

I turned to Rama. "Rama, isn't our town remarkable? Every corner holds a story, and every street is a reflection of our proud history."

Rama nodded, his eyes filled with appreciation. "Indeed, I'm grateful to have had the chance to see it."

We delved deeper into the heart of the city, as I turned to Sevika, my loyal friend and companion who had accompanied us on our journey. She had been instrumental in helping me lead our expedition and had managed the official report that would be sent to Lord Shivam, the governing authority of our region.

"Sevika," I said, "thank you for your unwavering support throughout this journey. Your dedication to our town does not go unnoticed."

Sevika smiled warmly. "It was an honor to assist you, Leela. KalaVijay is fortunate to have a leader like you."

With a promise to meet in my office the next day to discuss their well-deserved rewards, Sevika bid us goodnight and left the palace courtyard. She had always been a pillar of strength for me, and I was grateful for her friendship.

Now, with everyone out of the way, I was left with the task I had been eagerly anticipating – taking Rama to buy an armor. It was a token of gratitude and a subtle excuse to spend more time with him.

"Tell me, Rama," I began, "you've traveled far and wide, but do you have your own armor?"

Rama paused for a moment, "No," he admitted, "My training with Parshurama focused on mastering my skills, and armor was never a priority."

I smiled, secretly pleased by his response. "Well, Rama, I think it's high time you had one. I know a talented craftsman named Kundan. He has an armor shop in KalaVijay. Would you like to pay him a visit?"

Rama's eyes lit up with genuine gratitude. "Leela, that's incredibly generous of you, but I couldn't possibly accept such a gift."

I chuckled softly, realizing he was still unaware of my true intentions. "Think of it as a token of our town's appreciation for everything you've done, Rama. It's not just about the armor; it's about us taking care of those who protect KalaVijay."

Rama nodded, his smile warmer now. "Thank you, Leela. I'm truly touched by your kindness."

I led Rama through the palace gates and back into the moonlit city streets to Kundan's shop.

Inside Kundan's shop, the array of armor sets was vast. Kundan himself was busy managing the cashier's desk, and he greeted us with a warm smile as we entered.

"Welcome to my humble establishment," Kundan called out. "Feel free to explore the shop and let me know if you have any questions."

Rama and I exchanged glances, and I suggested, "Let's start by looking around and finding an armor set that suits you, Rama."

He nodded in agreement, and we began our exploration. As we walked through the aisles lined with various armor pieces, Rama's eyes sparkled with curiosity.

"The craftsmanship is exceptional." he remarked.

I smiled. "Kundan is known for his attention to detail and the quality of his work. He takes great pride in his creations."

We continued to browse the different armor sets, from intricately designed plate armor to lighter chainmail. Rama's preference became evident as he examined a set of light iron vest and wrist guards with a thoughtful expression.

"This might be just what I need," he said, running his fingers along the iron vest.

I nodded in agreement. "It looks like a wise choice, Rama."

With the decision made, we approached Kundan's cashier desk, where he was busy attending to another customer.

Kundan looked up and smiled. "Have you found what you were looking for?"

Rama nodded. "Yes, this iron vest and wrist guards are perfect."

Kundan nodded in approval. "Excellent choice, it's on the house," he smiled at me, "I'll prepare them for you."

"Thank you, Kundan." I beamed.

"No, 'Thank you' Leela, I hear you'll be sponcering me a piece of the boar's hide. News this big travels really fast." Kundan Grinned.

Kundan quickly processed the purchase, and Rama and I stepped aside to look for a dagger for me.

"Rama," I asked, "how did you acquire such formidable combat abilities? You are the son of a merchant, after all."

Rama looked at me with a warm smile. "My uncle served as a guard in Keralaputra, and he took it upon himself to teach me the sword."

I nodded. "Your uncle must have been an exceptional mentor. Your skills certainly reflect his teachings."

Carrying a dagger with a horse pommel, we made our way back to the palace grounds. The moonlight bathed the courtyard in a soft glow as we arrived.

I turned to one of my trusted palace guards and requested, "Please arrange for Rama's stay in the palace."

The guard acknowledged my request with a respectful bow.

Rama turned to me, his eyes filled with gratitude. "Thank you, Leela, for your kindness and for this gift of armor."

I smiled warmly in return. "It's the least I can do to show my appreciation for your assistance in our time of need. You are a true friend to KalaVijay."

As the guard returned to inform us that everything was ready, Rama and I exchanged a final nod. Rama would be staying in the palace, close by but with the privacy he deserved. With a sense of fulfillment, he followed the guard.

As they walked away, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation for what the future held.