Enemy Mine (CH 35)
The Knight in the Panther Skin, Book One: Avtandil's Quest
“After I sent my letter to Pharsidan, I appointed advisors and generals to remain behind and oversee the affairs of Khataeti in my absence. Then I set out for India. Though Ramaz was my prisoner on the long journey home, I treated him as an equal. For me, I held everything I wanted in my hand. I was flush with wealth of every kind, yet glory and honor were the currencies I cared most for.”
“In time, we made our way to the palace of my King. He met me like a father to his beloved son, giving me praises I cannot lightly repeat. When he noticed my wound, he changed the dressing himself, wrapping my arm with fresh and soft bandages.”
“Soon, a great celebration was held for us in large tents they had placed in the square. I rested there with my Knights for all to gaze upon. Many people came to praise us, and especially me. Others brought fine gifts and succulent delights, which we consumed with joy. Pharsidan sat beside me, looking on with love in his heart. We spent the evening feasting and celebrating together with those came to adore us. My happiness was boundless at being home and in the company of my people.”
“In the morning, we left for the halls of justice, having enjoyed the night until the first rays of the sun graced us. The King sat in the chair of judgment and commanded the Khatavian prisoners to be led in one at a time. He questioned each and judged them according to their worth until only Ramaz remained.”
“I brought the traitor in myself, for it was I who bested him. Despite his betrayal, I showed him every respect. He came with humility, and Pharsidan gazed on him sweetly, as one might look upon a son he once cradled. This gesture alone made it appear as if the deceitful one deserved such affection. For this is the truth of heroism. The brave show compassion to those they overcome, even the undeserving.”
“My King caressed him, and they spoke together until morning, when he summoned me. With a soft voice, he asked, ‘What do you say, my son Tariel? Should I forgive the Khatavian, an enemy just moments ago? Is it fit for me to restore the trust he so treacherously severed?’”
“I thought about what my Lord said, and after a moment, I answered him truthfully, ‘It is the will and action of God for sinners to be forgiven their trespasses. Because of this, we must also be merciful towards those who brought themselves to ruin with sin.’”
“King Pharsidan stared at Ramaz, and the steel of his will could be seen behind the diplomacy he showed the captured Khatavian, ‘You betrayed me and those I love, but it is my hand which sends you from here with forgiveness. Though, I wonder, would you be so considerate towards me if I were in your place?’”
“‘Think about this on your road home, for today you have witnessed my compassion. I do not send you away bare headed with empty hands and a broken crown. But know this, if you dare show yourself before me in disgrace again, you will learn the weight of my wrath.’”
“When he finished speaking, he gifted Ramaz a tribute of ten thousand drachmas, all in Khatavian money. Then he dressed the defeated Khan and his courtiers in finery, giving them silk brocades and satins before sending them away. Such was the mercy and wisdom of Pharsidan that even a traitor might win a pardon in place of the punishment he rightfully deserved.”
“On hearing his reprieve, Ramaz bowed low before the King. He thanked him profusely, paying homage and saying, ‘Let it be known before God, I repent the treachery I once planned towards you. If I sin against you again, it falls to your hand to kill me.’”
“Pharsidan nodded at his words, dismissing him and his men and returning the other prisoners to the Khatavians. Once their retinue gathered in full, they made their way from the palace without insult or injury, preparing for the long journey back to Khataeti. The actions of my King had demonstrated his superiority to all.”
“By the time our shamed enemies finally departed, my power was spent. The wound I received in battle throbbed, and no spirit remained in me for the necessities of court. It pleased me to witness the compassion with which my Lord ruled, but I craved rest. When the last of our affairs finished, I retired to my chambers, thoughts of Nestan close to my heart, though I still had not seen her for whom my soul sang.”