[Chapter Warning: Gore, violence]
Commander Abhi raised his right hand to halt the rest of the party. "Something is not right. Lads, be ready to race your horses."
Just as he uttered those words, an arrow came flying in from nowhere and struck his horse. The horse neighed and fell to the ground, but not before the commander swiftly dismounted. More arrows came whistling in towards the group, and some hit the other horses. Hearing the commotion, Guru Briharshi leapt out of the carriage. The driver jumped off his seat, too, and quickly hid underneath.
"Prince Surya," the guru called out, "Race your horse, quick!"
Before Surya could react, an arrow flew in and pierced his thigh. Despite the sting, he did not raise a cry.
"THESE ARE DECCAN BANDIT! BE CAREFUL! RACE YOUR HORSES! DO NOT DISMOUNT!" Tantric Vidyut warned the party.
