Final answer:
According to Rock Edict Xl, Ashoka regrets his conquering of Kalinga and seeks redemption. He converted to Buddhism and reformed the Maurya state based on his new beliefs, focusing on the welfare of the vulnerable and replacing hunting with religious pilgrimages.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ashoka feels regret and seeks redemption for his conquering of Kalinga, according to Rock Edict Xl. After the battle of Kalinga, where a quarter of a million soldiers died, he became remorseful and disgusted with his previous way of life. He converted to Buddhism, gave away his possessions, and took up vegetarianism.
He proceeded to reform the Maurya state in line with his new Buddhist beliefs, focusing on the welfare of the poor, aged, and widowed, and replacing hunting parties with religious pilgrimages.