Blood (Epic of the Mediterranean) [Book 1]

Chapter 7

BASIME, SUSIANA

THE PERSIAN EMPIRE

The quiet and pure white sands of the coast were tainted crimson, a peaceful serenity of gray landscapes destroyed ruthlessly. The rocky bay of the Persian Gulf mostly brought the lone sounds of clashing waves, an embodiment of the 'placid yet powerful' imagery. But it wasn't the same anymore. Roars of battle and the growls of agony filled the air this time, while turning the water of seas red. The only clashing which could be heard being that of the swords.

Namtar tightened his grip around the reins while pulling on them, the scene here wasn't any better than the capital city. Such an unanticipated attack had startled him at first, but it had been brought under control nonetheless. Civilians had been massacred with an attempt to overthrow the order, the mist of both dread and death could be sensed in the streets. He scowled, this wasn't the first time this had happened, but with outmost confidence something of this magnitude was never faced before. Yet the efficiency of the soldiers was more than satisfactory. It was pretty clear that they would finish the annihilation before the sun crosses horizon.

Repositioning the grip for a better angle was set in midst of the cavalry. The horse ran majestically through the hoard of men while the long-curved blade pierced head after head with consecutive hits, splattering blood all over the sophisticatedly tall and wide built of the ruling Governor of Susiana. There was no doubt that the rippling muscles were nothing but a reflection of the strength they carried. He wiped gore off from his face before pulling out of the trenches, completely aware of the General who had just arrived. A warrior shouldn't retreat from an unfinished battle, but the urgency of the situation and the duties of his position were foremost.

"You didn't have to enter the battlefield", Zayha said, no strain of the brutal conflict bequeathing itself on his uncaring expressions.

"I couldn't have just stood there either."

"The situation of the main cities is under control. You need to return to the capital."

The capital, Susa, had remained untouched from any disturbances as far as that was concerned. After all, if pests of such lowly stature had managed to enter Susa, it would have been a taint on its reputation. Namtar turned his face to see how Zayha didn't seem concerned in the very least, knowing pretty well that that was just how his personality was. Even if his very own house was on fire, it didn't seem like he would give it much thought either.

Inside the palace, Lady Sitara tried on various exquisite veils adorned by small circular mirrors and beads. Provinces covered by the Zagros had a more vibrant trend in jewels and clothes, precious stones and metals accompanied by feathers and flowers. Women covered their hair with bales of blossoms and their bodies with its fragrances. The east kingdoms flaunted their treasuries of delicate stones of all the colors which a rainbow could offer. But for the south, amidst the sand dunes and rocky coasts, gold and bronze sewed into the clothes of black and chains of copper was all that the young girl of sixteen could choose from. With esteem of her delicate fancies for all things pretty and the ardor for feminine grace, all this was nothing but dull. She preferred to adorn herself with goods imported from other states, without ever trying to disrepute or overlook her very own authenticity.

Gahambar was right around the corner and the adventure of choosing what all to wear on the trip with the maids gave her a good time. Visiting Bactria was never not an occasion of thrill and pleasure to her. The beauty it possessed and all that it had to offer, who wouldn't fall in love with it. She had decided on marrying a prince who had in his possession just as lovely a place which would reflect his heart.

"Ah, this is tiring. I will fetch us something to drink", the young Lady stood up in a haste, only to be pulled back down.

"We are the servants, mistress. If master Namtar hears about this, he would have us killed. You are asked to remain in your room", one of the two pleaded.