The Spoils of War (CH 34)
The Knight in the Panther Skin, Book One: Avtandil's Quest
“When I finished surveying my victory over the Khataetians, I turned to what must be done next. Though my arm had been wounded in battle, I could not take time to care for my injury. Soldiers and prisoners required my attention first.”
“As I began to give orders on the field, men from my army cheered what was left of the three hundred Knights who led the charge with me. Others offered thanks and gratitude for our victory as I passed them. When I reached our tents, the advisors and Lords who had raised and trained me wept with joy over my success. All who witnessed the carnage my sword wreaked on the enemies of India stood in awe.”
“For myself, I felt proud. The plains were colored with the blood of those who sought to betray me to my death. More importantly, we did not fight at the gates of the city. Instead, I seized the entirety of Khataeti without a prolonged battle. In one day, I accomplished what might otherwise take months to accomplish. Yet, I needed to do more, for victory is the smallest part of any war.”
“First, I sent my soldiers to collect any riches they could, and they did not disappoint. They returned with smiles etched across their tired faces, loaded with all manner of treasure and jewels. I laughed when I saw this and gave them leave to keep whatever they wanted from the loot. My eyes were fixed on a bigger prize.”
“Having taken care of my men’s morale, I was free to focus on Ramaz. My councilors brought him to me, and I spoke shortly and directly to him, ‘I am not accustomed to suffering evil men or fools. Your treachery warrants death, but I would not cause more innocent blood to spill with the loss of your head. If you drop the fortifications of your cities and turn them over to me, I will allow you to live so you may seek forgiveness for your wrongs. Should you refuse, I will not overlook your guilt, and you will be separated from your head.’”
“Though he was an idiot, I had bested him in battle. When any two people pit themselves against one another, each learns the mettle of the other. Because of this, I knew he was cowardly, and cowards are loathe to part with their lives.”
“The offer barely left my lips before he accepted, ‘I am ruined by you. There is no power in me to contest your victory. My Kingdom and all within are yours to do with what you will. Bring a Lord who remains faithful to me, and I will send him to our stewards. We will give Khataeti to you.’”
“I brought every one of his Lords to him from our prisoners and let him choose one. My Knights escorted this man to the fortresses of those who remained loyal to the treacherous King, and after several days the governors of towns and cities began presenting themselves to me. They gave us their strongholds, each bringing an endless stream of treasures with their submission. The men and women who ruled repented the folly of their actions and the war they invited, swearing allegiance to me.”
“Once I held the entirety of the Kingdom, I traveled across the country to inspect the lands. At every township and castle, they presented me with the keys to their Kingdoms. In time I visited everywhere except the palace.”
“Wherever I went, I calmed the people, telling them, ‘Do not fear me. I did not come to destroy you or your homes. Though I shine like the sun, I will not burn you, nor will I harm you. My actions are the reason your cities and castles fell without war or bloodshed on the citizens. Continue your lives in peace, and I will not disturb you.’”
“At last, I came to King Ramaz’s palace. I was unable to believe the treasure amassed there. You would grow tired of listening to me before I described them all. Yet, one item stood out above everything. It was a beautiful cloak and veil, but nothing I knew of could be compared with it. The fabric was woven in a strange foreign pattern and made of some material I had never seen.”
“Everyone marveled at the workmanship, but no one could tell me what it was or where it came from. I learned it was immune to fire and strong as steel despite being thin and light as a feather. Many claimed it to be a divine miracle, and I found no reason to doubt this.”
“I put this wondrous item together with several unique and precious gifts I thought Nestan would like. For Pharsidan, I chose the best items from each of the countless treasuries. When I finished gathering everything, we needed a thousand strong mules and camels to carry it all. Before they left, I sent a letter ahead sharing the good news of our victory.”
“I wrote, ‘My Lord and father, fortune smiles on us. The Khatavians plotted treachery, planning to ambush us and slay me with trickery, but they failed. Unfortunately, this deceit delayed word of my success. However, I captured their King and bring him to you now. The road will be long, for we have many prisoners and carry much treasure. I will rejoice to see you on my return to India.’”