How is Asoka a ruthless conqueror?

Asoka, the Indian emperor of the Maurya Dynasty, is often seen as a ruthless conqueror due to his early military campaigns, particularly the Kalinga War, which resulted in massive casualties and suffering. His relentless pursuit of territorial expansion showcased his ambition and willingness to use brutal force to achieve his goals. However, this ruthlessness transformed into a commitment to non-violence and Buddhism after witnessing the horrors of war, leading him to advocate for peace and compassion in his later reign.