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Chapter 34 - Throw Feasts, Throw Fists
Chapter 34 - Throw Feasts, Throw Fists
March 14, 883 AD
This time Zachariah followed his intentions of bringing the army home. After he had all too readily got his troops in perpetual wars in the eastern parts of Khazaria, yesterday had been the day of their return. Today had thus been spent with a big ceremony, with decorations and promotions being handed to quite a bunch of soldiers who had gained fame and respect on the endeavours in the Eastern Steppes, far up the Volga. As usual, a feast was to follow, today with Marshal Itakh of Jabdertim as guest of honour. No doubt Zachariah was trying to keep up the good relation with the Jabdertim clan.
This was not to be taken for granted. Conflict never was absent for long in the region, and one month prior Khagan Burtas of Burtas had asked for help in an attack by Bolghar – but this time Khazaria couldn't be convinced to send troops into yet another petty border conflict far away from his own lands. Burtas would always have trouble defending itself, and its tribute was negligible. Zachariah and his high command agreed to leave them to themselves.
"It's good that the men are back", Itakh stated with full mouth. He really had learned a lot of his father, including his rather brutish manners. "A war on Bolghar would have been very untimely. The men need to regroup before we can think about new endeavours."
"That's why I called them here", Zachariah said high-mindedly. "Even though Khan Bulçan was disappointed to the point of pettiness. I've been getting a hint earlier that I should take a closer look in the kitchen, and what did I find? This jester trying to convince the cook to botch the food and make me look bad!
I guess he wanted the spotlight kept elsewhere, to keep raiding in the Bulanid lands for a little longer. Not as if it makes a difference. I've heard that the Bulanid troops show no signs of coming back from the Caucasus. I heard we too could attack the rebels at this point without anyone, including the Bulanid, being entitled to do anything about it."
"Yes, my Khan. Rebellions are mostly fair game in that respect. Not that I think a lot of snatching land that way. Also, in recent times the Bulanid have refrained from just pillaging lands and now actually try to make land gains for their Aghbanian underlings. If they continue, the rebellion could be thwarted quickly. We would possibly drain our reserves further - for an uncertain reward."
"I agree, Itakh. We'll keep the situation under close watch, but our horde deserves the break. They've been through a lot, especially after the unlucky defeat against the Cumanians."
"Well, 'unlucky' is a way to put it, I guess..."
Zachariah frowned. "What do you mean by that?"
Itakh gave him an irritated look. "It's well known that it could have been prevented without the changes in the general staff days before the battle..."
Zachariah looked at him very indignantly, and Itakh realized he might better shut his mouth and have another ale. The issue still brewed in him. He hadn't realized before how little realization Zachariah had of his crucial mistake that had cost almost 1000 men their lives. And he would have to put up with this guy for a long time.
Three beers later, he found it was enough. Someone had to stand up to Zachariah sooner or later, and why not him and tonight? He would address it again. This time the Khagan would surely acknowledge that Or was his fault.
Zachariah was panting heavily, and his right eye was swelling. His vision was blurry, and he felt terribly nauseous. All the beer and a precise punch to the guts from the younger and stronger Itakh had taken their toll. Still he had been able to land a few hits to that inobedient lout.
The impertinence! The guts this cockroach Itakh possessed! The reason for everyone to come to Oleshye had been his own father's death and the unconditional pritority to show respect to someone that important. He was at Zachariah's house and eating his food. And now he went and accused him, the Khagan, of somehow being at fault for the battle being lost so many miles away!
But he had put up a really good fight, there was no denying that. And he stood up to his opinions, just like his father. Also, Zachariah didn't feel like going on. He yearned for an ice packet on his eye. Luckily, Itakh seemed to agree.
The feast where the Khagan and the Marshal got at each other's throats would be the stuff of legends in the future, along with many other delightful anecdotes about his extravagant parties. By this time, everyone in the steppes was eager to somehow get an invitation to one of the frequent carousals Zachariah threw in the newly constructed gathering hall. Sometimes the courtiers from the various Khanates were the bulk of the guests, sometimes delegations of foreigners were welcomed and richly served. Each time something novel happened – once all servants were dwarfs from Europe, another time a live falconry display was followed by the prey being served as the main platter, and yet another time an anaconda from India was served in one piece, straight along the long table, for all guests to carve their own food off of it.
Summer, 883 AD
The reputation of Zachariah's legendary parties had spread far and wide, and with the new contacts it was possible to marry off more of his children to favorable terms over the year. The Khan of Ezgil was still a vassal of Khagan Batir, but most considered him the true force in the Bolghar lands. And his heir was unbetrothed. Even though he couldn't stand Zachariah personally, he finally gave in to the prestige boost for his son should he get married to the daughter of an Ashina Khagan.
Muhan, Zachariah's eldest son, had a lot of possibilities due to his fathers' status and his chances of becoming the next Khagan. After contemplating many candidates, a Polish Princess was selected. King Sobieslaw Kujawski of Poland was making progress toward uniting his lands, and he had a common antagonist with Khazaria – the Kievan Rus.
Especially Irge had always been very fond of the culinary specialties that life as a Khatun offered to her, and in September she announced that she would give birth to Zachariah's seventh child soon. The ensuing cravings went barely noticed among the guests.
October 24, 883 AD
Over all the glittering nightlife, Zachariah was distracted for quite some time from what had happened on the Caucasus – or what hadn't happened, so to speak. After a short whiff of helping out in Alania, the Bulanid had left again to procure more loot on the Georgian coast. Due to the revolt's desperate determination and the Hashimid army being busy in Georgia as well, they had managed to hold out.
The ranks of the Khazarian army were largely refilled until August, under the competent watch of Itakh and his general staff. Although he didn't exactly share the personal bond that his father Yavdi had shared with Zachariah, their little brawl left him with a certain respect for the Khagan. He apparently wasn't as much a coward as everyone said. And after the fight, he had called Itakh "a true Jabdertim", for all that was worth. Maybe some sense would come to him in time. Even though he wouldn't refrain from that nefarious plan to backstab the Alanian rebellion.
Hezekiah obviously was still bound to his word that had already incited the whole Bashkirian ordeal. That sealed the council majority, and now they were to thwart the efforts of these people who stood up to the Bulanid for years.
When the Khazarian armies entered Alania, they found a desolate country. Poor enough as it was in the harsh climate, the past years of invasion, civil war and plundering Bulanid hordes had left the country bled dry. There was no place where the misery didn't abound. The people who escaped enslavement or death from rampaging riders were starving to death. Entire villages had been left in ruins or burned to the ground, and the homeless flocked by the remaining towns where quickly violence and disease spread.
There was not much to be had for the marching Khazarian army, and they went straight for the hillfort where the family of the local Chief could be captured. Zachariah's armies got more proficient at taking hostages with every campaign, as it seemed.
Today, the revolt leader Hasqar had sent his surrender. He saw no way to save his own skin and family but to give away his land, call off his war and go into hiding. A mere ten weeks after the war declaration, Kasogia now belonged to Zachariah. As devastated as the lands were, there were still plenty of inhabitated settlements and Hasqar's remarkable hillfort left.
The news of Kasogia surrendering sent Ezra into a rush. Sensing that Zachariah would soon be in preparation for the next feast, he hurried to the Khagan's yurt. He and his old colleague Kundaç had already thought ahead of the issues that would come up after the expectable victory.
Zachariah welcomed him joyfully. "Ezra, old chap. Come in and have a sip of that Tej from Abyssinia. It's fabled all over the world! Great stuff! But I got to admit I get a terrible headache from it, so I'm not actually having any."
"Me neither, thanks. Good that you're not taking up drinking during the day." Ezra grinned. Zachariah got ever more extravagant, but at least he was no drunkard or glutton. The lifestyle didn't seem to affect his physical health at least. "Like that, we can have a little talk about what you intend with Kasogia after all. The last time we took a settled province, there were only small...."
Zachariah cut him off. "We burn everything to the ground and make it pastures for more horses."
Ezra was suprised, but as usual kept his contenance. "Uhm....but it's mountainous terrain. It would also take longer than last..."
"Have you not heard me?" bellowed Zachariah. "Make it pastures for goats and sheep. Who cares?"
"Yes, I did. It's going to take about a year. More people there than in Ushytsia." Ezra was puzzled by that sudden mood swing.
"I don't mind. If there's more villages to be flushed out, there's also more spoils and more slaves."
"They might also stand up against our rule very quickly. We would have to protect the troops performing the pillaging heavily."
"Aren't the troops there anyway? I'll send Itakh to conduct an anti-rebel operation. If anyone still tries anything, the armies will crush him with all the force it has. Kasogia will be clear of the original folks when we're done with it. Are we clear?"
A short pause followed, with Ezra still unsure what to think of this unprecedented determination.
"Oh, and you have a new colleague as per today. Khan Buzer of Kabar died. He had cancer. Like Yavdi." Zachariah suddenly grew contemplative. "It's kind of a shame. I still have no idea why Manasseh installed him back in the day, but he never was one to make trouble, with his funny little one-province Khanate. His brother will succeed him as Khan and as my advisor. I wonder what kind of guy he is. Never heard of him, if I recall it correctly..."
Ezra looked suprised. "Oh. No, I didn't know that he's deceased yet. He was very sick in the last weeks though. May he rest in peace. Is that successor his brother Menümarót? Because I know that guy from a few occasions."
Zachariah nodded. "Yes, that's him! Isn't Menümarót the most badass name you've ever heard?"
"I'd have to think about that, probably no – but in any case, the man isn't much of a badass...."
"We'll see about that, but I've really never heard such a great name. I mean, what kind of flow does Menümarót have?"
Ezra tried to get Zachariah back on track, but he wouldn't stop going on about the beauty of Menümarót sounded. Eventually the Spymaster had to acknowledge there was no more sensible ruling to be had from Zachariah today and take his leave.
Later in the evening, Ezra and Kundaç sat in a compartment of the large gathering yurt. They were the only unlanded councillors that also didn't command armies across the realm and thus could concentrate on, and they had lots of experience in their fields. They both knew that the conquest of Kasogia and the aggravating Ashina dominance could grow into a more persistent issue.
"So what did Zachariah say?" asked Kundaç.
Ezra sighed. "I couldn't get through to him in time. I really shouldn't have mentioned Kibar's brothers' name. And you know exactly how it is these days – once he's distracted, you don't need to bother explaining complicated things. Ashina coming off as too dominant in the Khaganate is one thing, but the whole overpopulation issue is a mess – and going to get ever more complicated if it isn't handled properly."
"Not as if Zachariah couldn't know about it already. He's been Manasseh's steward for over ten years. And there have been measures at land management shortly before his death." replied Kundaç.
Ezra looked at him with tired eyes. "Yeah, you know how much effort has gone into that position. Manasseh made the decision to create the new Khanate alone, Zachariah didn't mind a bit. And to be fair, the problem wasn't as evident at the time because Manasseh didn't take lands for himself – which makes it even harder to tackle now. And there's been a tad bit of population growth in between."
"No use trying to hand out the blame. You're right, it's only going to get worse if nothing's done about it. The clans have prospered in the recent years and three of them state they definitely need more pastures soon. And this is happening while Ashina is now controlling over a third of the Khazarian lands alone. No wonder they're getting restless."
"True. And I also wonder what stance Kibar Bulanid will take once he's of age in a few months and the regency ends. I can't imagine many reasons why he would be thrilled with the Khagan."
The two men kept assessing the sitation, but agreed that there wasn't much to be done right now. Although Zachariah had to consult the council before major decisions, there was no way to force him into making them in the first place. They'd have to keep looking for the right occasion.
March 14, 883 AD
This time Zachariah followed his intentions of bringing the army home. After he had all too readily got his troops in perpetual wars in the eastern parts of Khazaria, yesterday had been the day of their return. Today had thus been spent with a big ceremony, with decorations and promotions being handed to quite a bunch of soldiers who had gained fame and respect on the endeavours in the Eastern Steppes, far up the Volga. As usual, a feast was to follow, today with Marshal Itakh of Jabdertim as guest of honour. No doubt Zachariah was trying to keep up the good relation with the Jabdertim clan.
This was not to be taken for granted. Conflict never was absent for long in the region, and one month prior Khagan Burtas of Burtas had asked for help in an attack by Bolghar – but this time Khazaria couldn't be convinced to send troops into yet another petty border conflict far away from his own lands. Burtas would always have trouble defending itself, and its tribute was negligible. Zachariah and his high command agreed to leave them to themselves.
"It's good that the men are back", Itakh stated with full mouth. He really had learned a lot of his father, including his rather brutish manners. "A war on Bolghar would have been very untimely. The men need to regroup before we can think about new endeavours."
"That's why I called them here", Zachariah said high-mindedly. "Even though Khan Bulçan was disappointed to the point of pettiness. I've been getting a hint earlier that I should take a closer look in the kitchen, and what did I find? This jester trying to convince the cook to botch the food and make me look bad!
I guess he wanted the spotlight kept elsewhere, to keep raiding in the Bulanid lands for a little longer. Not as if it makes a difference. I've heard that the Bulanid troops show no signs of coming back from the Caucasus. I heard we too could attack the rebels at this point without anyone, including the Bulanid, being entitled to do anything about it."
"Yes, my Khan. Rebellions are mostly fair game in that respect. Not that I think a lot of snatching land that way. Also, in recent times the Bulanid have refrained from just pillaging lands and now actually try to make land gains for their Aghbanian underlings. If they continue, the rebellion could be thwarted quickly. We would possibly drain our reserves further - for an uncertain reward."
"I agree, Itakh. We'll keep the situation under close watch, but our horde deserves the break. They've been through a lot, especially after the unlucky defeat against the Cumanians."
"Well, 'unlucky' is a way to put it, I guess..."
Zachariah frowned. "What do you mean by that?"
Itakh gave him an irritated look. "It's well known that it could have been prevented without the changes in the general staff days before the battle..."
Zachariah looked at him very indignantly, and Itakh realized he might better shut his mouth and have another ale. The issue still brewed in him. He hadn't realized before how little realization Zachariah had of his crucial mistake that had cost almost 1000 men their lives. And he would have to put up with this guy for a long time.
Three beers later, he found it was enough. Someone had to stand up to Zachariah sooner or later, and why not him and tonight? He would address it again. This time the Khagan would surely acknowledge that Or was his fault.
Zachariah was panting heavily, and his right eye was swelling. His vision was blurry, and he felt terribly nauseous. All the beer and a precise punch to the guts from the younger and stronger Itakh had taken their toll. Still he had been able to land a few hits to that inobedient lout.
The impertinence! The guts this cockroach Itakh possessed! The reason for everyone to come to Oleshye had been his own father's death and the unconditional pritority to show respect to someone that important. He was at Zachariah's house and eating his food. And now he went and accused him, the Khagan, of somehow being at fault for the battle being lost so many miles away!
But he had put up a really good fight, there was no denying that. And he stood up to his opinions, just like his father. Also, Zachariah didn't feel like going on. He yearned for an ice packet on his eye. Luckily, Itakh seemed to agree.
The feast where the Khagan and the Marshal got at each other's throats would be the stuff of legends in the future, along with many other delightful anecdotes about his extravagant parties. By this time, everyone in the steppes was eager to somehow get an invitation to one of the frequent carousals Zachariah threw in the newly constructed gathering hall. Sometimes the courtiers from the various Khanates were the bulk of the guests, sometimes delegations of foreigners were welcomed and richly served. Each time something novel happened – once all servants were dwarfs from Europe, another time a live falconry display was followed by the prey being served as the main platter, and yet another time an anaconda from India was served in one piece, straight along the long table, for all guests to carve their own food off of it.
Summer, 883 AD
The reputation of Zachariah's legendary parties had spread far and wide, and with the new contacts it was possible to marry off more of his children to favorable terms over the year. The Khan of Ezgil was still a vassal of Khagan Batir, but most considered him the true force in the Bolghar lands. And his heir was unbetrothed. Even though he couldn't stand Zachariah personally, he finally gave in to the prestige boost for his son should he get married to the daughter of an Ashina Khagan.
Muhan, Zachariah's eldest son, had a lot of possibilities due to his fathers' status and his chances of becoming the next Khagan. After contemplating many candidates, a Polish Princess was selected. King Sobieslaw Kujawski of Poland was making progress toward uniting his lands, and he had a common antagonist with Khazaria – the Kievan Rus.
Especially Irge had always been very fond of the culinary specialties that life as a Khatun offered to her, and in September she announced that she would give birth to Zachariah's seventh child soon. The ensuing cravings went barely noticed among the guests.
October 24, 883 AD
Over all the glittering nightlife, Zachariah was distracted for quite some time from what had happened on the Caucasus – or what hadn't happened, so to speak. After a short whiff of helping out in Alania, the Bulanid had left again to procure more loot on the Georgian coast. Due to the revolt's desperate determination and the Hashimid army being busy in Georgia as well, they had managed to hold out.
The ranks of the Khazarian army were largely refilled until August, under the competent watch of Itakh and his general staff. Although he didn't exactly share the personal bond that his father Yavdi had shared with Zachariah, their little brawl left him with a certain respect for the Khagan. He apparently wasn't as much a coward as everyone said. And after the fight, he had called Itakh "a true Jabdertim", for all that was worth. Maybe some sense would come to him in time. Even though he wouldn't refrain from that nefarious plan to backstab the Alanian rebellion.
Hezekiah obviously was still bound to his word that had already incited the whole Bashkirian ordeal. That sealed the council majority, and now they were to thwart the efforts of these people who stood up to the Bulanid for years.
When the Khazarian armies entered Alania, they found a desolate country. Poor enough as it was in the harsh climate, the past years of invasion, civil war and plundering Bulanid hordes had left the country bled dry. There was no place where the misery didn't abound. The people who escaped enslavement or death from rampaging riders were starving to death. Entire villages had been left in ruins or burned to the ground, and the homeless flocked by the remaining towns where quickly violence and disease spread.
There was not much to be had for the marching Khazarian army, and they went straight for the hillfort where the family of the local Chief could be captured. Zachariah's armies got more proficient at taking hostages with every campaign, as it seemed.
Today, the revolt leader Hasqar had sent his surrender. He saw no way to save his own skin and family but to give away his land, call off his war and go into hiding. A mere ten weeks after the war declaration, Kasogia now belonged to Zachariah. As devastated as the lands were, there were still plenty of inhabitated settlements and Hasqar's remarkable hillfort left.
The news of Kasogia surrendering sent Ezra into a rush. Sensing that Zachariah would soon be in preparation for the next feast, he hurried to the Khagan's yurt. He and his old colleague Kundaç had already thought ahead of the issues that would come up after the expectable victory.
Zachariah welcomed him joyfully. "Ezra, old chap. Come in and have a sip of that Tej from Abyssinia. It's fabled all over the world! Great stuff! But I got to admit I get a terrible headache from it, so I'm not actually having any."
"Me neither, thanks. Good that you're not taking up drinking during the day." Ezra grinned. Zachariah got ever more extravagant, but at least he was no drunkard or glutton. The lifestyle didn't seem to affect his physical health at least. "Like that, we can have a little talk about what you intend with Kasogia after all. The last time we took a settled province, there were only small...."
Zachariah cut him off. "We burn everything to the ground and make it pastures for more horses."
Ezra was suprised, but as usual kept his contenance. "Uhm....but it's mountainous terrain. It would also take longer than last..."
"Have you not heard me?" bellowed Zachariah. "Make it pastures for goats and sheep. Who cares?"
"Yes, I did. It's going to take about a year. More people there than in Ushytsia." Ezra was puzzled by that sudden mood swing.
"I don't mind. If there's more villages to be flushed out, there's also more spoils and more slaves."
"They might also stand up against our rule very quickly. We would have to protect the troops performing the pillaging heavily."
"Aren't the troops there anyway? I'll send Itakh to conduct an anti-rebel operation. If anyone still tries anything, the armies will crush him with all the force it has. Kasogia will be clear of the original folks when we're done with it. Are we clear?"
A short pause followed, with Ezra still unsure what to think of this unprecedented determination.
"Oh, and you have a new colleague as per today. Khan Buzer of Kabar died. He had cancer. Like Yavdi." Zachariah suddenly grew contemplative. "It's kind of a shame. I still have no idea why Manasseh installed him back in the day, but he never was one to make trouble, with his funny little one-province Khanate. His brother will succeed him as Khan and as my advisor. I wonder what kind of guy he is. Never heard of him, if I recall it correctly..."
Ezra looked suprised. "Oh. No, I didn't know that he's deceased yet. He was very sick in the last weeks though. May he rest in peace. Is that successor his brother Menümarót? Because I know that guy from a few occasions."
Zachariah nodded. "Yes, that's him! Isn't Menümarót the most badass name you've ever heard?"
"I'd have to think about that, probably no – but in any case, the man isn't much of a badass...."
"We'll see about that, but I've really never heard such a great name. I mean, what kind of flow does Menümarót have?"
Ezra tried to get Zachariah back on track, but he wouldn't stop going on about the beauty of Menümarót sounded. Eventually the Spymaster had to acknowledge there was no more sensible ruling to be had from Zachariah today and take his leave.
Later in the evening, Ezra and Kundaç sat in a compartment of the large gathering yurt. They were the only unlanded councillors that also didn't command armies across the realm and thus could concentrate on, and they had lots of experience in their fields. They both knew that the conquest of Kasogia and the aggravating Ashina dominance could grow into a more persistent issue.
"So what did Zachariah say?" asked Kundaç.
Ezra sighed. "I couldn't get through to him in time. I really shouldn't have mentioned Kibar's brothers' name. And you know exactly how it is these days – once he's distracted, you don't need to bother explaining complicated things. Ashina coming off as too dominant in the Khaganate is one thing, but the whole overpopulation issue is a mess – and going to get ever more complicated if it isn't handled properly."
"Not as if Zachariah couldn't know about it already. He's been Manasseh's steward for over ten years. And there have been measures at land management shortly before his death." replied Kundaç.
Ezra looked at him with tired eyes. "Yeah, you know how much effort has gone into that position. Manasseh made the decision to create the new Khanate alone, Zachariah didn't mind a bit. And to be fair, the problem wasn't as evident at the time because Manasseh didn't take lands for himself – which makes it even harder to tackle now. And there's been a tad bit of population growth in between."
"No use trying to hand out the blame. You're right, it's only going to get worse if nothing's done about it. The clans have prospered in the recent years and three of them state they definitely need more pastures soon. And this is happening while Ashina is now controlling over a third of the Khazarian lands alone. No wonder they're getting restless."
"True. And I also wonder what stance Kibar Bulanid will take once he's of age in a few months and the regency ends. I can't imagine many reasons why he would be thrilled with the Khagan."
The two men kept assessing the sitation, but agreed that there wasn't much to be done right now. Although Zachariah had to consult the council before major decisions, there was no way to force him into making them in the first place. They'd have to keep looking for the right occasion.
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What does that 87.4k number mean in the last screenshot, is that the total strength of all the clans? That minor clan rising revolt doesnt sound good, lets hope Zacharias advisors can get through to him and prevent it. Very interesting to see the nomadic mechanics, not many other AARs in this sort of region.
@Wixelt has already covered the elusive number
- I'm always trying to get the mechanical differences that Nomads have (and that I also learn about on the "job") across, glad you appreciate it. In this case, the revolt risk is fortunately not a big deal - if Zachariah gives one province away, the modificator is gone again. In general, things are pretty stable around him - I figure his succession is where it gets more chaotic.While that might well be true, the effects are unlikely to be sustainable.
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Chapter 35 - Jewels On Skulls
Chapter 35 - Jewels On Skulls
November, 883 AD
After the quick and ruthless war on the Alanian rebels, the prisoners were ransomed back to Chief Itaz of Alania, who had somehow become kown as "the Son of Devil" among his Christian peers, for over 100 gold. Apparently the man had more than enough in his coffers despite his population suffering from terrible poverty due to the constant "visits" of the Bulanid horde. Added to the loot from Kasogia and from the renewed endeavours in Cherson (undisturbed this time - the Byzantines were currently fighting a civil war, as it happened occasionally), the Khazarian treasury was suddenly bursting. Kundaç was officially in charge of Khazaria's finances, but Zachariah took his liberties when it came to spending the money. No one was surprised when the supposedly largest feast of all time was commissioned a little later in the name of Khazaria's new wealth, and neither was anyone when Irge appeared in ludicrously expensive and fancy clothes made of silk from Persia and brocade from Venice.
Kundaç still had a bad feeling when Zachariah announced in a lengthy speech on the same evening that he was planning to be the first truly crowned Khagan of Khazaria, with pompous regalia of power like the rulers in Europe had. To that purpose, he would hire Savaçka, a renowned goldsmith from the Caspian who supposedly had crafted similar works for rulers all over the Middle East. It would be only a week later, when he was presented with Savaçka's bill, that Kundaç realized how far this spending spree had gone and that probably he should have intervened at some point.
He went pale upon the realization that the current funds, as generous as they had seemed, would not suffice for the horrendous cost this kind of jewelry incurred, especially with Zachariah's carousing habits further draining the resources. If Savaçka expected full payment in advance, they wouldn't be able to pay her off. But the deal was signed. Suddenly the treasury was in considerable debt.
On a more joyous note, Yeldem is in hiding because she was about to give birth to Zachariah's nephew Boris a few weeks later.
Meanwhile Zachariah didn't want to hear anything about the hole in the Khaganate's finances that troubled his steward. He was completely immersed in Savaçka's progress, and especially his younger twin Tarkhan took it as an example. Soon, Tarkhan spent more time in the workshop than anywhere else and built up a lot of strength working with the tools and raw materials. Though the court secretly scoffed at a Khagan's son indulging in such menial tasks, Zachariah himself was happy for Tarkhan - he was enthustiastic about smithing, and that way he'd learn a lot about diligence.
January, 884 AD
It wasn't until the Kievan war ended with the expected Rus' victory in the first days of 884 that Zachariah could be finally brought to his right mind. Marshal Itakh wasn't really able to exert influence on an increasingly detached Zachariah, and it took Hekeziah's intervention (who had kept a low profile as he was busy siring a new heir) to bring the army's shape back on the agenda. With an continuously unifying Russian kingdom right across the border, any sign of weakness could be pivotal. And due to the empty treasury, rations for the army had to be reduced – which was never a good sign. The general staff was strictly in opposition to further petty land-grabbing endeavours, but something had to be done about the realm's finances.
Finally, it was decided that looting in Moldavia was to resume. This way, the horde would be close to the action should the Kievans try something, and the debt could be settled with the valuables of the Moldavians. Offensive wars were ruled out at least until the pillaging of Kasogia, which meant razing a lot of villages and driving off and enslaving the population, was concluded – which would still take a while. The Kasogians, already stricken by war for years and now subject to their ultimate eviction, had already tried to stand up to the Khazarian force conducting this gruesome business, but were put down quickly and brutally. After this failed attempt to rally, even the slightest spurs of resistance were punished with massacres among the population. The terror that the horde spread was unprecedented even to the Alanians.
The generals were also able to put through their agenda when Khagan Tatus of Bashkiria asked for help again. Khan Yavantey of Ezgil, maybe the most prolific conqueror in the North for the moment, had attacked him to wrest a piece of land in said North out of his hands. Hezekiah, Itakh and Simsam had no trouble convincing Zachariah this time that intervening would not be in his best interest, as he secretly admired Yavantey of Ezgil a tad bit for his streak of victories.
When Irge gave birth to Zachariah's fifth son in April, his seventh child in total, a name was quickly agreed on.
October 21, 884 AD
Ust-Dzeguta, Kasogia
Today was the big day. Only a few days ago, Savaçka the goldsmith had sent word that her work was done – and the troops from Kasogia reported that their work was coming to a successful end. Zachariah decided to visit the successful army and hold the big crowning ceremony on site. He had not been this far from home for many years, but he didn't want to miss the opportunity of displaying his new splendor and throwing a big event to conclude the full "integration" of Kasogia into Khazaria.
When Zachariah and his entourage arrived on the Caucasus, the destruction was still abound. The sight of the salted fields and the mass graves made an idea pop up in his mind he had once read about in Muhan's annals. Oh, he would be a true king. To a proper crown belonged a proper throne.
The sight was bizarre even for the hardened steppe warriors who made up most of the spectators of the ceremony. In front of the hillfort, the only structure still standing in Kasogia as per Zachariah's order, stood two large Khazarian banners – and in their middle, a large throne that was entirely clad in human skulls - or was it made of skulls? The remains of the many victims the merciless expulsion of the Alanian population from their lands had taken. Many of them civilians, whose crime it had been to not know where to go with their homes destroyed. To the soldiers, this ordeal was a necessary evil with nothing honorous about it. Most certainly nothing to boast about for a man whose contribution had consisted of simple orders in between sophisticated banquets for his bootlickers. The unease among their ranks was palpable.
It only got quiet when Khan Hezekiah of Hekel made his entrance to the scenery and walked toward the throne. He presided over the ceremony in his position as Court Rabbi, and it was an uncommon sight to see him in the traditional Rabbi garments instead of his usual armor or at least his full dress uniform.
With booming voice he announced: "I welcome my brothers in arms, the riders of Ashina!" and waved gracefully toward the army squadron who saluted their General just as they were used to. "I also welcome the revered noblemen from Khazaria who have made the way all along to our newly acquired Caucasian pastures." The courtiers and high officials from the other Khanates applauded politely.
"With today's nigh-conclusion of the pillage of Kasogia, the Khagan of Khazaria and Khan of Ashina, Zachariah Ashina, son of Tarkhan, has chosen all of you to be witness to the first public display of his new court regalia – and to the fire that will consume the hillfort of the Kasogian tribe, signifying the lands are now Ashina pastures and they are never to come back!"
Hezekiah was used to giving pep talks to armies rather than grave speeches, yet he seemed to sufficiently play his role. A keen observer would probably still have noticed that he wasn't so sure himself how much of an honor witnessing this event would be eventually. The soldiers were excited by all means, though angry shouting was occasionally to be heard among the cheers.
"Now rise to your feet for Khagan Zachariah Ashina, his dearest wife Khatun Irge Yabguid and the regalia-bearers Ikalay, Yabghu and Baghathur Ashina!"
Zachariah and his family marched in, the kids all carrying large cushions that were veiled with thick silk sheets. Particularly the seven-year-old Baghathur struggled visibly with the weight and cumber of his load, especially because he was hardly able to see anything, but his big sister subtly helped him out and they successfully made it to the imposant, if very creepy skull throne.
Khan Hezekiah very subtly and only for the fragment of a second rolled his eyes before he took word again: "I have the unspeakable pleasure to announce the unraveling of Khagan Zachariah's new scepter."
Baghathur stepped forward, and Khatun Irge lifted the silk veil, relieved him of his burden and passed the scepter. It was incrediby fancy, made of massive gold glistening in the mountain sun with emeralds worked in all over the hilt and the tip – but it also completely out of touch with anything in the surrounding. Or anywhere in the steppes, for that matter. Precious metals were of no particular interest to the subsistent life most people in Khazaria lived. The crowd was in awe, if slightly irritated.
The ornamental sword followed, to less than subtle amusement of the military. Although Hezekiah had announced it as the "Sword of Heroes", there was little heroic about it. With its gold-coated, comically thick blade and the unwieldy hilt full of precious stones of varying colors, it would be a hindrance on a battlefield rather than a weapon. When it was handed to Zachariah, he was clearly surprised for a moment by the sword's weight and unbalance. It was still a masterwork in its own respect, there was no denying that.
Finally, Ikalay handed out the new crown – very pompous and very pointless, just as the other pieces – to Hezekiah, who held a very elaborate liturgy and finally placed it on Zachariah's head.
This was his moment. Zachariah was bursting with pride, feeling very much like a true King. And now for everyone to see it and spread the word all over Khazaria. He sat on his throne, freshly crowned, waiting for the big explosion of joy to happen.
Someone started to clap. A few other people joined in. Then more after these people. The applause got louder....and then it dispersed again, after maybe twenty seconds of polite, unimpressed clapping. A slight mumbling emerged in the crowd.
Only now did Zachariah properly look into the crowd. A lot of bewildered faces, some people quickly started to clap again as soon as they realized he was watching. But why don't they cherish me? Irge always said this was a splendid idea. And Ezra, too...wait, have I even asked him? And what did Khatir say? No, Khatir is dead....Itakh! Itakh is Hkati in reverse, that's amost Khatir. I must think of a way to distinguish the two, otherwise I might embarass myself.
Zachariah was rudely interrupted in his train of thought. "Dad?"
He looked into the puzzled face of his son Yabghu. The crowd was already in the mid of dispersing. Where are the fanfares? The cheering masses?
"Where are you going?" shouted Zachariah, but apparently no one heard him. The skulls from his throne seemed to be laughing at him in ridicule. Why is everything different from the plan? Is this real, is it a cruel play? Maybe I need a Kingdom too, instead of just a Clan and a Khaganate. We need more money.
"They're going to the hillfort to have a better view. I think we're supposed to go there, too..." said Yabghu.
Zachariah had already forgotten he was there and spun around. "What? Um....are we?" That was when Hezekiah appeared and reminded him that they still had a hillfort to burn down.
When the flames blazed high into the evening sky, with the summits of the Caucasus behind it, Zachariah finally got the cheering mass he had wanted.
November, 883 AD
After the quick and ruthless war on the Alanian rebels, the prisoners were ransomed back to Chief Itaz of Alania, who had somehow become kown as "the Son of Devil" among his Christian peers, for over 100 gold. Apparently the man had more than enough in his coffers despite his population suffering from terrible poverty due to the constant "visits" of the Bulanid horde. Added to the loot from Kasogia and from the renewed endeavours in Cherson (undisturbed this time - the Byzantines were currently fighting a civil war, as it happened occasionally), the Khazarian treasury was suddenly bursting. Kundaç was officially in charge of Khazaria's finances, but Zachariah took his liberties when it came to spending the money. No one was surprised when the supposedly largest feast of all time was commissioned a little later in the name of Khazaria's new wealth, and neither was anyone when Irge appeared in ludicrously expensive and fancy clothes made of silk from Persia and brocade from Venice.
Kundaç still had a bad feeling when Zachariah announced in a lengthy speech on the same evening that he was planning to be the first truly crowned Khagan of Khazaria, with pompous regalia of power like the rulers in Europe had. To that purpose, he would hire Savaçka, a renowned goldsmith from the Caspian who supposedly had crafted similar works for rulers all over the Middle East. It would be only a week later, when he was presented with Savaçka's bill, that Kundaç realized how far this spending spree had gone and that probably he should have intervened at some point.
He went pale upon the realization that the current funds, as generous as they had seemed, would not suffice for the horrendous cost this kind of jewelry incurred, especially with Zachariah's carousing habits further draining the resources. If Savaçka expected full payment in advance, they wouldn't be able to pay her off. But the deal was signed. Suddenly the treasury was in considerable debt.
On a more joyous note, Yeldem is in hiding because she was about to give birth to Zachariah's nephew Boris a few weeks later.
Meanwhile Zachariah didn't want to hear anything about the hole in the Khaganate's finances that troubled his steward. He was completely immersed in Savaçka's progress, and especially his younger twin Tarkhan took it as an example. Soon, Tarkhan spent more time in the workshop than anywhere else and built up a lot of strength working with the tools and raw materials. Though the court secretly scoffed at a Khagan's son indulging in such menial tasks, Zachariah himself was happy for Tarkhan - he was enthustiastic about smithing, and that way he'd learn a lot about diligence.
January, 884 AD
It wasn't until the Kievan war ended with the expected Rus' victory in the first days of 884 that Zachariah could be finally brought to his right mind. Marshal Itakh wasn't really able to exert influence on an increasingly detached Zachariah, and it took Hekeziah's intervention (who had kept a low profile as he was busy siring a new heir) to bring the army's shape back on the agenda. With an continuously unifying Russian kingdom right across the border, any sign of weakness could be pivotal. And due to the empty treasury, rations for the army had to be reduced – which was never a good sign. The general staff was strictly in opposition to further petty land-grabbing endeavours, but something had to be done about the realm's finances.
Finally, it was decided that looting in Moldavia was to resume. This way, the horde would be close to the action should the Kievans try something, and the debt could be settled with the valuables of the Moldavians. Offensive wars were ruled out at least until the pillaging of Kasogia, which meant razing a lot of villages and driving off and enslaving the population, was concluded – which would still take a while. The Kasogians, already stricken by war for years and now subject to their ultimate eviction, had already tried to stand up to the Khazarian force conducting this gruesome business, but were put down quickly and brutally. After this failed attempt to rally, even the slightest spurs of resistance were punished with massacres among the population. The terror that the horde spread was unprecedented even to the Alanians.
The generals were also able to put through their agenda when Khagan Tatus of Bashkiria asked for help again. Khan Yavantey of Ezgil, maybe the most prolific conqueror in the North for the moment, had attacked him to wrest a piece of land in said North out of his hands. Hezekiah, Itakh and Simsam had no trouble convincing Zachariah this time that intervening would not be in his best interest, as he secretly admired Yavantey of Ezgil a tad bit for his streak of victories.
When Irge gave birth to Zachariah's fifth son in April, his seventh child in total, a name was quickly agreed on.
October 21, 884 AD
Ust-Dzeguta, Kasogia
Today was the big day. Only a few days ago, Savaçka the goldsmith had sent word that her work was done – and the troops from Kasogia reported that their work was coming to a successful end. Zachariah decided to visit the successful army and hold the big crowning ceremony on site. He had not been this far from home for many years, but he didn't want to miss the opportunity of displaying his new splendor and throwing a big event to conclude the full "integration" of Kasogia into Khazaria.
When Zachariah and his entourage arrived on the Caucasus, the destruction was still abound. The sight of the salted fields and the mass graves made an idea pop up in his mind he had once read about in Muhan's annals. Oh, he would be a true king. To a proper crown belonged a proper throne.
The sight was bizarre even for the hardened steppe warriors who made up most of the spectators of the ceremony. In front of the hillfort, the only structure still standing in Kasogia as per Zachariah's order, stood two large Khazarian banners – and in their middle, a large throne that was entirely clad in human skulls - or was it made of skulls? The remains of the many victims the merciless expulsion of the Alanian population from their lands had taken. Many of them civilians, whose crime it had been to not know where to go with their homes destroyed. To the soldiers, this ordeal was a necessary evil with nothing honorous about it. Most certainly nothing to boast about for a man whose contribution had consisted of simple orders in between sophisticated banquets for his bootlickers. The unease among their ranks was palpable.
It only got quiet when Khan Hezekiah of Hekel made his entrance to the scenery and walked toward the throne. He presided over the ceremony in his position as Court Rabbi, and it was an uncommon sight to see him in the traditional Rabbi garments instead of his usual armor or at least his full dress uniform.
With booming voice he announced: "I welcome my brothers in arms, the riders of Ashina!" and waved gracefully toward the army squadron who saluted their General just as they were used to. "I also welcome the revered noblemen from Khazaria who have made the way all along to our newly acquired Caucasian pastures." The courtiers and high officials from the other Khanates applauded politely.
"With today's nigh-conclusion of the pillage of Kasogia, the Khagan of Khazaria and Khan of Ashina, Zachariah Ashina, son of Tarkhan, has chosen all of you to be witness to the first public display of his new court regalia – and to the fire that will consume the hillfort of the Kasogian tribe, signifying the lands are now Ashina pastures and they are never to come back!"
Hezekiah was used to giving pep talks to armies rather than grave speeches, yet he seemed to sufficiently play his role. A keen observer would probably still have noticed that he wasn't so sure himself how much of an honor witnessing this event would be eventually. The soldiers were excited by all means, though angry shouting was occasionally to be heard among the cheers.
"Now rise to your feet for Khagan Zachariah Ashina, his dearest wife Khatun Irge Yabguid and the regalia-bearers Ikalay, Yabghu and Baghathur Ashina!"
Zachariah and his family marched in, the kids all carrying large cushions that were veiled with thick silk sheets. Particularly the seven-year-old Baghathur struggled visibly with the weight and cumber of his load, especially because he was hardly able to see anything, but his big sister subtly helped him out and they successfully made it to the imposant, if very creepy skull throne.
Khan Hezekiah very subtly and only for the fragment of a second rolled his eyes before he took word again: "I have the unspeakable pleasure to announce the unraveling of Khagan Zachariah's new scepter."
Baghathur stepped forward, and Khatun Irge lifted the silk veil, relieved him of his burden and passed the scepter. It was incrediby fancy, made of massive gold glistening in the mountain sun with emeralds worked in all over the hilt and the tip – but it also completely out of touch with anything in the surrounding. Or anywhere in the steppes, for that matter. Precious metals were of no particular interest to the subsistent life most people in Khazaria lived. The crowd was in awe, if slightly irritated.
The ornamental sword followed, to less than subtle amusement of the military. Although Hezekiah had announced it as the "Sword of Heroes", there was little heroic about it. With its gold-coated, comically thick blade and the unwieldy hilt full of precious stones of varying colors, it would be a hindrance on a battlefield rather than a weapon. When it was handed to Zachariah, he was clearly surprised for a moment by the sword's weight and unbalance. It was still a masterwork in its own respect, there was no denying that.
Finally, Ikalay handed out the new crown – very pompous and very pointless, just as the other pieces – to Hezekiah, who held a very elaborate liturgy and finally placed it on Zachariah's head.
This was his moment. Zachariah was bursting with pride, feeling very much like a true King. And now for everyone to see it and spread the word all over Khazaria. He sat on his throne, freshly crowned, waiting for the big explosion of joy to happen.
Someone started to clap. A few other people joined in. Then more after these people. The applause got louder....and then it dispersed again, after maybe twenty seconds of polite, unimpressed clapping. A slight mumbling emerged in the crowd.
Only now did Zachariah properly look into the crowd. A lot of bewildered faces, some people quickly started to clap again as soon as they realized he was watching. But why don't they cherish me? Irge always said this was a splendid idea. And Ezra, too...wait, have I even asked him? And what did Khatir say? No, Khatir is dead....Itakh! Itakh is Hkati in reverse, that's amost Khatir. I must think of a way to distinguish the two, otherwise I might embarass myself.
Zachariah was rudely interrupted in his train of thought. "Dad?"
He looked into the puzzled face of his son Yabghu. The crowd was already in the mid of dispersing. Where are the fanfares? The cheering masses?
"Where are you going?" shouted Zachariah, but apparently no one heard him. The skulls from his throne seemed to be laughing at him in ridicule. Why is everything different from the plan? Is this real, is it a cruel play? Maybe I need a Kingdom too, instead of just a Clan and a Khaganate. We need more money.
"They're going to the hillfort to have a better view. I think we're supposed to go there, too..." said Yabghu.
Zachariah had already forgotten he was there and spun around. "What? Um....are we?" That was when Hezekiah appeared and reminded him that they still had a hillfort to burn down.
When the flames blazed high into the evening sky, with the summits of the Caucasus behind it, Zachariah finally got the cheering mass he had wanted.
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Zacharias descent into madness continues.....was the throne of skulls event available to every nomad or exclusively to Zacharia because of his cruel/insane trait?
I doubt it, otherwise the tooltip would say your trait allows you to take said response.
Well that was .. appropriate.
Jewish history tends to the bloody after all, even when the Jews are the ones doing the slaughtering.
Jewish history tends to the bloody after all, even when the Jews are the ones doing the slaughtering.
@Wixelt has it right again, as I can confirm by now (being a few years of insanity ahead in the game).
Rare enough that they're not the ones on the receiving end of the usual medieval atrocities. Although in this timeline, the Khazarians still look like they're going to be the ones delivering the violence for quite a while.
Chapter 36 - Growing Boys
Chapter 36 - Growing Boys
November 1, 884 AD
On the head of the large wooden table in the center of the gathering hall throned Khagan Zachariah, now easily discernible by the golden crown and his shiny, but seriously impractical regalia that were still ridiculed by many behind his back. Around him sat his gathered councillors.
It was a rare occasion that the whole Khazarian council came together – meetings weren't held all too often since Zachariah considered it too much tedium for everyone involved. Only in cases when a council vote was mandatory, it came together – and usually there was always someone who was busy elsewhere and sent a delegate. Today was different – it was an important day for two reasons.
First, Zachariah had announced that the problem of the perceived Ashina overweight in the Khaganate and the overpopulation issue in the Khanates would be dealt with – that meant a redistribution of land and possibly an important decision for the balance of power in the Khaganate. Particularly the position of the Bulanid in the future was unclear yet – in contrast to the other clans, they were natural contenders for the legitimate succession of Muhan and thus the Khaganate.
Closely related was the second reason for the importance of this meeting: Khan Kibar of Bulanid, the younger brother of late Khagan Nisi, had come of age a few weeks earlier, and as it was customary to have all Khans sitting in the council, he was proclaimed advisor by Zachariah. If that was supposed to appease him, that had already proved pointless before the meeting. Rumours were going around that Kibar was determined to become Khagan himself and then carry on with his grandfathers' ambition to conquer the Black Sea coast from the Ashina. Today would mark his first appearance to the Khazarian stage as Khan.
Zachariah welcomed his councillors and opened the meeting. "As you all know, we're here today to welcome our new member Kibar of Bulanid who's recently reached the sweet 16 and thus taken over the honor of ruling our highly appreciated neighbourhood, the Khanate of Bulanid.", he said in a slightly too much honeyed voice. "Why don't you introduce yourself, Khan Kibar?"
"Spare your sweet talk, Zachariah of Ashina", Kibar repied with anger in his voice. "The usurpation and the murder of Nisi are not forgiven and not forgotten. Just so you know, Khagan of Khazaria: The Bulanid are your vassal in name, but they will never support you as long as I live. I am the rightful Khagan, and I intend to prove it when the time comes!" he shouted and rammed his hunting knife into the table before him. Ezra and Menümarót of Kabar, who sat next to him, jerked and moved a slight bit away from the grim youngster.
Zachariah himself snickered unimpressedly. "Oh, we will see about that. At least you're not intent to just roll on your back and beg for mercy. I like that." In a much colder tone he added "What I don't like is the whole rest of your attitude. I'll take that into account later."
The meeting proceeded, with the main issue being that the Khans Hezekiah and Bulçan both claimed that their population had outgrown their lands in the past years. Their line of argument was that due to Zachariah making their immediate neighbour, the Bashkirians, a tributary and thus prohibiting easy conquests, it was his responsibility to redistribute some of the Ashina lands that had grown quite a lot since Zachariah's ascension. Kibar tried to make a similar point, but was brushed off by the other Khans and told to make his own conquests on the Caucasus instead of perpetually looting the lands there. The young lad had much to learn about hierarchies, as was now painfully apparent.
As neither Hekel nor Bulçir bordered the Ashina lands, there was no obvious solution to the problem. After a prolonged debate that saw Kibar storming out after he had repeatedly been ignored and a lot of arguments about the chances and challenges of far-away exclaves, an agreement was found. Hezekiah and Bulçan each were to receive one province in Etelköz, bordering the Kievan Rus. That would provide them with a raiding base towards the Rus and additional land to migrate a part of their population to, although it was far off. As Khagan, Zachariah was responsible for the protection of his vassals anyway, but reassured both that should the need arise his host would defend the new exclaves as if it were his own lands.
Etelköz was now divided into a large Ashina part and two single provinces belonging to different Khanates. Bulçan jokingly referred to the new situation as "border gore", a term that immediately spread with his peers and should later somehow find its way into Europe to stick with aspiring geopoliticians for centuries. Exclaves weren't that uncommon in Nomad lands anyhow, as defending largely empty lands was rarely an actual issue. Although their new pastures were secluded from their homeland, the two Khans and their whole clans were very content with this display of appreciation.
March 29, 885 AD
Today Zachariah's twins turned twelve, which also marked the beginning of their formal education. Both boys – under the soft pressure of their mother Virág - opted for a military career. They knew very well by now that the coming years would likely be a contest for the Khaganate until their father died. And whoever won it would even more likely have to fend off the Bulanid. They also knew what happened to rulers not deemed strong enough. Particularly Tarkhan still sometimes had nightmares about the execution of Nisi Bulanid, although he would never tell anyone.
Maybe because of this, Tarkhan was the slightly more engaged of the two. Muhan was quiet and thoughtful, sometimes reclusive and a keen observer rather than a big talker. He often hid behind his books and kept an extensive diary of his insights about the court. Tarkhan was more outgoing and versatile in his interests, and he frequently accompanied his father and his advisors on their endeavours, asking lots of questions and assisting them wherever he could. That made him the slight favorite for Zachariah's succession for the moment – but that was a very close affair and could change again at any time.
But worries about the eventual succession were still far in the future. After their solemn introduction into the ranks of the army, there had been a big birthday party. Now evening was breaking, and the staff was preparing the banquet that should conclude the festivities.
After the sacking of Kasogia and the ensuing land redistribution, peace had returned to the Khazarian lands – at least for the moment. Zachariah was somewhat tired of big politics after the events in Kasogia and the land redistribution and took up his familiar habit of throwing lavish carousals, oftentimes inviting the other Khans over now that they weren't commanding armies and held Zachariah in high esteem.
Especially Khan Hezekiah of Hekel, who has been skeptical at best upon Zachariah's ascension to the Khaganate, had proved a thankful guest and a formidable companion in the past. He had sired three more children by now, among them the long awaited son who had been born to his concubine Kelnissa in the past year. With a lot of pressure off of him, he apparently had gotten the taste of a vivid love life and more than once he and Zachariah delved into the pleasantries that being a mighty man could provide quite easily – namely hitting on peasant wenches, most times with considerable success.
Another regular visitor, in spite of the little brawl on their first encounter, was Khan Itakh of Jabdertim. He spent most of the time supervising the build-up of reserve troops in the vicinity anyways, so he could frequently make the time and appreciated Zachariah's hospitality greatly.
Due to their newfound sympathy with Zachariah, both Khans were honorary guests for today's banquet as well. With the preparations still going on, the three men were occupying a corner of the gathering hall. His generals had caught Zachariah in time for a little talk, knowing that there weren't many opportunities to get through to him once he was in his element.
"By now, the army has a satisficing amount of reservists in addition to our fully manned standing troops totalling 4000 heads. We'd be ready to strike at any time, sir." That was Itakh, eager and dutiful. He had quickly grown into his responsibilities as supreme commander of Khazaria and Khan of Jabdertim.
"I'm not doubting that. The question, my sirs, is....where should we strike? Where can we strike?" Zachariah's gaze wandered while he was talking. "And when?"
Hezekiah and Itakh gave each other a short glance and a barely noticeable nod. Hezekiah explained: "There are three possible directions to take in total. The first option is to attack Moldavia and either make it a vassal or take over their heartlands. They're fighting a war to annex a remain of Hungary to their north, so they would be vulnerable – and their army would pose no match to ours even if it wasn't so.
Second, the Bolghar Khaganate to the north of Bulçir is still tributary to the Bulanid, who seem unwilling to defend their outer territories. Breaking up this alliance by making them our own tributary would weaken the position of Kibar with the other Khans, but would be relatively inconsequential in terms of economic and military support. Khagan Batir of Bolghar looks bigger than he is, with his vassal Yavantey of Ezgil providing the bulk of territory and manpower to his banners.
Third, we could obviously continue to push into the Caucasus. The Hashimids would be the natural choice, as they are also still tributary to Kibar Bulanid, but they are contributing a tad bit more gold to his coffers – be it tributes or the booty his raiders keep on carrying home. They're also exhausted from the perpetual war on Georgia."
"I'd consider those plans about equally viable, my Khagan" added Itakh. "A war on Bolghar would involve the largest hostile force should Yavantey of Ezgil join the war. And there's little reason he wouldn't. On the other hand, the Hashimids and the Moldavians have lands full of natural obstacles, garrisoned cities and above all castle walls. Their armies are hardly a match for ours, but the wars may still drag on for a long time. But the same could happen in Bolghar."
"Well. We've seen how cooperative Kibar plans to be", Zachariah replied, seemingly deep in thought. "He has also amassed quite a fortune by now. I'm not comfortable with just letting him carry on like that, but neither with running into his army on the Caucasus. He might well decide to try and defend the Hashimids, with his troops around the corner. Bolghar would cause him much more trouble, even more so if you provide your troops too. He might just become scared and write it off. And the people of the Clans love new tributaries."
"Undeniable, my Khagan." replied Hezekiah. "It would nullify any hold Manasseh had over the neighbouring Khaganates and thus clarify beyond doubt that no one but you is the ruler over the western Steppes. We recommend to send the army toward the border and closely observe the reaction of the Bulanid. It's not sure if Kibar stays as passive as his regency council did in the face of losing subjects."
"That's what we will do. Very good work, generals. I'll name two of the most accomplished warhorses after you.", Zachariah said - to the visible confusion of Itakh, while Hezekiah was struggling to hide his amusement. The next day, the troops were set into motion.
September 27, 885 AD
Khazarian Army Camp, Bolghar
The evening was about to break, and it was quickly getting colder. The nights already got chilly this time of the years in the lands to the north along the Volga. The Ashina host was moving into the Bolghar lands, facing no opposition until now. Throughout their long journey through the Khazarian lands, they had been moving mostly at night to avoid the searing heat of summer in the steppes. When the Bulanid showed no reaction to the troop movements, war had been declared on August 6 and they had crossed the border. Soon they would face a long, cold winter.
The Bolghar Khaganate was involved in a territorial war on Perm at its northern frontier, which bound its troops there. The Khazarian generals' plan was to quickly secure the heartlands of Khagan Batir and his vassals until reinforcements from the Khans arrived, then seek the decisive battle to quickly end the war. To take no chances with the Bulanid, Zachariah and his general staff had agreed to call Jabdertim, Hekel and Bulçir into the war, whose troops were now on the move towards Bolghar. On arrival, the Khazarian army would field close to 10.000 men. For the first time since Manasseh's reign would a joint Khazarian force march.
Marshal Itakh of Jabdertim and General Simsam Tarbesid were making their usual round along the Khazarian encampment to make sure everything was in order.
"I wonder why Batir still has no allies in this", Itakh thought aloud. "Even if Kibar leaves him hanging, as everyone expects - the man has three vassals, and it's abundantly clear that they're not going to get spared. They could at least try and put up a fight. And they seem to be fine with assisting him attacking neighbours."
"Yes, I don't have any clou either. Seems like everyone's rolling on their backs as soon as our banners appear on the horizon.", Simsam replied grinning. "Without the Ezgil forces and any other support, this is going to be as one-sided as Burtas and Pecheneg. Maybe we should factor in a little more cowardice in our assertions what we're going against. The council was all like 'blood and glory, men proving their mettle'. Only the Khagan seems to take it for granted. At least in hindsight."
Both men snickered. That was when a squire arrived, stating he had a message from Ezra, the spymaster. Itakh thanked the lad and saluted to him (a very honorous moment for a thirteen-year-old – this was the supreme commander after all!). He read the short note and put it down bewilderedly. "It seems like we have our answer. Apparently there's more conflict in Bolghar than the wars."
November 1, 884 AD
On the head of the large wooden table in the center of the gathering hall throned Khagan Zachariah, now easily discernible by the golden crown and his shiny, but seriously impractical regalia that were still ridiculed by many behind his back. Around him sat his gathered councillors.
It was a rare occasion that the whole Khazarian council came together – meetings weren't held all too often since Zachariah considered it too much tedium for everyone involved. Only in cases when a council vote was mandatory, it came together – and usually there was always someone who was busy elsewhere and sent a delegate. Today was different – it was an important day for two reasons.
First, Zachariah had announced that the problem of the perceived Ashina overweight in the Khaganate and the overpopulation issue in the Khanates would be dealt with – that meant a redistribution of land and possibly an important decision for the balance of power in the Khaganate. Particularly the position of the Bulanid in the future was unclear yet – in contrast to the other clans, they were natural contenders for the legitimate succession of Muhan and thus the Khaganate.
Closely related was the second reason for the importance of this meeting: Khan Kibar of Bulanid, the younger brother of late Khagan Nisi, had come of age a few weeks earlier, and as it was customary to have all Khans sitting in the council, he was proclaimed advisor by Zachariah. If that was supposed to appease him, that had already proved pointless before the meeting. Rumours were going around that Kibar was determined to become Khagan himself and then carry on with his grandfathers' ambition to conquer the Black Sea coast from the Ashina. Today would mark his first appearance to the Khazarian stage as Khan.
Zachariah welcomed his councillors and opened the meeting. "As you all know, we're here today to welcome our new member Kibar of Bulanid who's recently reached the sweet 16 and thus taken over the honor of ruling our highly appreciated neighbourhood, the Khanate of Bulanid.", he said in a slightly too much honeyed voice. "Why don't you introduce yourself, Khan Kibar?"
"Spare your sweet talk, Zachariah of Ashina", Kibar repied with anger in his voice. "The usurpation and the murder of Nisi are not forgiven and not forgotten. Just so you know, Khagan of Khazaria: The Bulanid are your vassal in name, but they will never support you as long as I live. I am the rightful Khagan, and I intend to prove it when the time comes!" he shouted and rammed his hunting knife into the table before him. Ezra and Menümarót of Kabar, who sat next to him, jerked and moved a slight bit away from the grim youngster.
Zachariah himself snickered unimpressedly. "Oh, we will see about that. At least you're not intent to just roll on your back and beg for mercy. I like that." In a much colder tone he added "What I don't like is the whole rest of your attitude. I'll take that into account later."
The meeting proceeded, with the main issue being that the Khans Hezekiah and Bulçan both claimed that their population had outgrown their lands in the past years. Their line of argument was that due to Zachariah making their immediate neighbour, the Bashkirians, a tributary and thus prohibiting easy conquests, it was his responsibility to redistribute some of the Ashina lands that had grown quite a lot since Zachariah's ascension. Kibar tried to make a similar point, but was brushed off by the other Khans and told to make his own conquests on the Caucasus instead of perpetually looting the lands there. The young lad had much to learn about hierarchies, as was now painfully apparent.
As neither Hekel nor Bulçir bordered the Ashina lands, there was no obvious solution to the problem. After a prolonged debate that saw Kibar storming out after he had repeatedly been ignored and a lot of arguments about the chances and challenges of far-away exclaves, an agreement was found. Hezekiah and Bulçan each were to receive one province in Etelköz, bordering the Kievan Rus. That would provide them with a raiding base towards the Rus and additional land to migrate a part of their population to, although it was far off. As Khagan, Zachariah was responsible for the protection of his vassals anyway, but reassured both that should the need arise his host would defend the new exclaves as if it were his own lands.
Etelköz was now divided into a large Ashina part and two single provinces belonging to different Khanates. Bulçan jokingly referred to the new situation as "border gore", a term that immediately spread with his peers and should later somehow find its way into Europe to stick with aspiring geopoliticians for centuries. Exclaves weren't that uncommon in Nomad lands anyhow, as defending largely empty lands was rarely an actual issue. Although their new pastures were secluded from their homeland, the two Khans and their whole clans were very content with this display of appreciation.
March 29, 885 AD
Today Zachariah's twins turned twelve, which also marked the beginning of their formal education. Both boys – under the soft pressure of their mother Virág - opted for a military career. They knew very well by now that the coming years would likely be a contest for the Khaganate until their father died. And whoever won it would even more likely have to fend off the Bulanid. They also knew what happened to rulers not deemed strong enough. Particularly Tarkhan still sometimes had nightmares about the execution of Nisi Bulanid, although he would never tell anyone.
Maybe because of this, Tarkhan was the slightly more engaged of the two. Muhan was quiet and thoughtful, sometimes reclusive and a keen observer rather than a big talker. He often hid behind his books and kept an extensive diary of his insights about the court. Tarkhan was more outgoing and versatile in his interests, and he frequently accompanied his father and his advisors on their endeavours, asking lots of questions and assisting them wherever he could. That made him the slight favorite for Zachariah's succession for the moment – but that was a very close affair and could change again at any time.
But worries about the eventual succession were still far in the future. After their solemn introduction into the ranks of the army, there had been a big birthday party. Now evening was breaking, and the staff was preparing the banquet that should conclude the festivities.
After the sacking of Kasogia and the ensuing land redistribution, peace had returned to the Khazarian lands – at least for the moment. Zachariah was somewhat tired of big politics after the events in Kasogia and the land redistribution and took up his familiar habit of throwing lavish carousals, oftentimes inviting the other Khans over now that they weren't commanding armies and held Zachariah in high esteem.
Especially Khan Hezekiah of Hekel, who has been skeptical at best upon Zachariah's ascension to the Khaganate, had proved a thankful guest and a formidable companion in the past. He had sired three more children by now, among them the long awaited son who had been born to his concubine Kelnissa in the past year. With a lot of pressure off of him, he apparently had gotten the taste of a vivid love life and more than once he and Zachariah delved into the pleasantries that being a mighty man could provide quite easily – namely hitting on peasant wenches, most times with considerable success.
Another regular visitor, in spite of the little brawl on their first encounter, was Khan Itakh of Jabdertim. He spent most of the time supervising the build-up of reserve troops in the vicinity anyways, so he could frequently make the time and appreciated Zachariah's hospitality greatly.
Due to their newfound sympathy with Zachariah, both Khans were honorary guests for today's banquet as well. With the preparations still going on, the three men were occupying a corner of the gathering hall. His generals had caught Zachariah in time for a little talk, knowing that there weren't many opportunities to get through to him once he was in his element.
"By now, the army has a satisficing amount of reservists in addition to our fully manned standing troops totalling 4000 heads. We'd be ready to strike at any time, sir." That was Itakh, eager and dutiful. He had quickly grown into his responsibilities as supreme commander of Khazaria and Khan of Jabdertim.
"I'm not doubting that. The question, my sirs, is....where should we strike? Where can we strike?" Zachariah's gaze wandered while he was talking. "And when?"
Hezekiah and Itakh gave each other a short glance and a barely noticeable nod. Hezekiah explained: "There are three possible directions to take in total. The first option is to attack Moldavia and either make it a vassal or take over their heartlands. They're fighting a war to annex a remain of Hungary to their north, so they would be vulnerable – and their army would pose no match to ours even if it wasn't so.
Second, the Bolghar Khaganate to the north of Bulçir is still tributary to the Bulanid, who seem unwilling to defend their outer territories. Breaking up this alliance by making them our own tributary would weaken the position of Kibar with the other Khans, but would be relatively inconsequential in terms of economic and military support. Khagan Batir of Bolghar looks bigger than he is, with his vassal Yavantey of Ezgil providing the bulk of territory and manpower to his banners.
Third, we could obviously continue to push into the Caucasus. The Hashimids would be the natural choice, as they are also still tributary to Kibar Bulanid, but they are contributing a tad bit more gold to his coffers – be it tributes or the booty his raiders keep on carrying home. They're also exhausted from the perpetual war on Georgia."
"I'd consider those plans about equally viable, my Khagan" added Itakh. "A war on Bolghar would involve the largest hostile force should Yavantey of Ezgil join the war. And there's little reason he wouldn't. On the other hand, the Hashimids and the Moldavians have lands full of natural obstacles, garrisoned cities and above all castle walls. Their armies are hardly a match for ours, but the wars may still drag on for a long time. But the same could happen in Bolghar."
"Well. We've seen how cooperative Kibar plans to be", Zachariah replied, seemingly deep in thought. "He has also amassed quite a fortune by now. I'm not comfortable with just letting him carry on like that, but neither with running into his army on the Caucasus. He might well decide to try and defend the Hashimids, with his troops around the corner. Bolghar would cause him much more trouble, even more so if you provide your troops too. He might just become scared and write it off. And the people of the Clans love new tributaries."
"Undeniable, my Khagan." replied Hezekiah. "It would nullify any hold Manasseh had over the neighbouring Khaganates and thus clarify beyond doubt that no one but you is the ruler over the western Steppes. We recommend to send the army toward the border and closely observe the reaction of the Bulanid. It's not sure if Kibar stays as passive as his regency council did in the face of losing subjects."
"That's what we will do. Very good work, generals. I'll name two of the most accomplished warhorses after you.", Zachariah said - to the visible confusion of Itakh, while Hezekiah was struggling to hide his amusement. The next day, the troops were set into motion.
September 27, 885 AD
Khazarian Army Camp, Bolghar
The evening was about to break, and it was quickly getting colder. The nights already got chilly this time of the years in the lands to the north along the Volga. The Ashina host was moving into the Bolghar lands, facing no opposition until now. Throughout their long journey through the Khazarian lands, they had been moving mostly at night to avoid the searing heat of summer in the steppes. When the Bulanid showed no reaction to the troop movements, war had been declared on August 6 and they had crossed the border. Soon they would face a long, cold winter.
The Bolghar Khaganate was involved in a territorial war on Perm at its northern frontier, which bound its troops there. The Khazarian generals' plan was to quickly secure the heartlands of Khagan Batir and his vassals until reinforcements from the Khans arrived, then seek the decisive battle to quickly end the war. To take no chances with the Bulanid, Zachariah and his general staff had agreed to call Jabdertim, Hekel and Bulçir into the war, whose troops were now on the move towards Bolghar. On arrival, the Khazarian army would field close to 10.000 men. For the first time since Manasseh's reign would a joint Khazarian force march.
Marshal Itakh of Jabdertim and General Simsam Tarbesid were making their usual round along the Khazarian encampment to make sure everything was in order.
"I wonder why Batir still has no allies in this", Itakh thought aloud. "Even if Kibar leaves him hanging, as everyone expects - the man has three vassals, and it's abundantly clear that they're not going to get spared. They could at least try and put up a fight. And they seem to be fine with assisting him attacking neighbours."
"Yes, I don't have any clou either. Seems like everyone's rolling on their backs as soon as our banners appear on the horizon.", Simsam replied grinning. "Without the Ezgil forces and any other support, this is going to be as one-sided as Burtas and Pecheneg. Maybe we should factor in a little more cowardice in our assertions what we're going against. The council was all like 'blood and glory, men proving their mettle'. Only the Khagan seems to take it for granted. At least in hindsight."
Both men snickered. That was when a squire arrived, stating he had a message from Ezra, the spymaster. Itakh thanked the lad and saluted to him (a very honorous moment for a thirteen-year-old – this was the supreme commander after all!). He read the short note and put it down bewilderedly. "It seems like we have our answer. Apparently there's more conflict in Bolghar than the wars."
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Kibar could use some subtlety, it is not wise to poke a bear, especially an insane and cruel one.
I must admit I don't really understand the Nomad government form well enough to follow some of these machinations or what the screenshots represent
He has barely an idea how much he is playing with fire there - something typical of people who get to the power too soon...
It's somewhat confusing, I can relate
The whole "land distribution" thing won't be as extensively described in future chapters, I just wanted to establish the concept for once.The most important things are that as soon as a Khagan holds more than a third of the provinces in his realm, the vassals start to get unruly (which I interpret as a rather loose mimic of the demesne limit, which in turn doesn't exist for Nomads) - and growing population sooner or later demands more space.
Chapter 37 - The Scourge of God
Chapter 37 - The Scourge of God
June 22, 886 AD
Bolghar Encampment
It was summer again. Over the past months, it had become more and more distinct that despite the rough winter in the northern steppes, the troops of Batir wouldn't be able to stop the Khazarians. Had the Bolghar forces acted quickly upon the war declaration, they could have stood a chance, but Yavantey of Ezgil's demise at the most inconvenient time prevented that. His son Irkhan had taken until February to finally enter the war. By that time, the reinforcements from the Khazarian Khanates had already arrived and the armies were in position to strike. Over the course of spring, the outnumbered Bolghar and Ezgil armies were successively caught by a growing Khazarian horde before they had a chance to join forces. This had cost them more than half of their men, and any chance to fight back eventually.
As if this wasn't enough, the Kievan Rus had declared their own war on Bolghar to take Cheremisa, the province only conquered from Burtas two years before. With his troops routed, this front would pose another near insurmountable problem to Batir of Bolghar.
Under these grim circumstances, nothing was left to Batir of Bolghar but to surrender to Khazaria. He did so in his own encampment that was now occupied by the high command of his enemy. Marshal Itakh and General Hezekiah were the officials to bear witness and confirm Batir's fealty oath to Khagan Zachariah. Once more, the Khaganate had won a victory, and with less resistance than expected. Khazaria was now the undisputed hegemonial power over the vast lands from the Black Sea to the Ural.
To Batir's great disappointment, the following weeks showed that Zachariah wasn't inclined in any way to take responsibility for his safety. The severely weakened Bolghar Khaganate was soon attacked on several fronts, without Zachariah batting an eye. The call against the Russian invaders went unanswered, and little later a Khan from the Bashkirian lands saw his opportunity.
None of this lead to any reaction from the Khagan in Oleshye, mostly because the Khazarian army was already moving south. The war against Georgia had taken its final toll on Duke Hashim of Aghbania in February. He was caught in an ambush with his personal guard and could only be retrieved heavily injured. A few days later, the Duke died from the injury and left the Duchy to his underage son Ishkhan and his appointed regent, the Duchy's spymaster Zaur of Khatti-Baku.
The boy inherited a myriad of problems: an ongoing war on Georgia with no progress to speak of in years, discontent subjects in the Alan parts of his realm and a supposed suzerain that looted those same Alan lands, in turn stirring up the locals even more. And now the Ashina troops were on their way, after the victory over Bolghar. His regency council would have to be creative.
May 3, 887 AD
Durdzukia, Northern Caucasus
It is absolutely incredible, Marshal Itakh thought to himself while watching his Khagan being carried on a sedan through cheering Khazarian soldiers. They keep succumbing. No one wants to even fight for his life and lands. What is wrong with those wannabe rulers? Or is it actually Zachariah that has some kind of clairvoyance? Maybe that's why he's so hard to understand at times...or that's just because he's a lunatic bastard.
Not long ago, their old fight about the defeat at Or had reemerged upon a rather tasteless remark of Zachariah about Itakh's promotion to Marshal and a sassy rebutt that Zachariah in turn took very personal. This time they were prevented from cudgeling by some brave bystanders, but that only lead to a grudge they now carried on each other. Itakh remembered a story that his late father had once told him about Zachariah and his first meeting with him, when both were still young Khans, and thought to himself that apparently the guy hadn't changed much.
Despite his personal caveats, there was no denying Zachariah's success at conquering land. In a campaign of less than nine months they had won two more provinces populated by Alanian tribes without resistance to speak of. Zachariah's miraculous streak of luck had continued, and soon these lands would be free for more nomads. Upon hearing of the Ashina army moving south last October, the regency council in Aghbania apparently panicked and shed the bulk of their Alanian holdings to avoid open conflict, stating that nothing good had ever come from them owning the lands. Yegorlyk and Durdzukia were made independent overnight – which amounted to leaving them free for conquest.
On their own, there was even less chance of the Alanians defending themselves. Only help from the Bulanid could have prevented what befell the largely unprotected chiefdoms north of the Caucasus summits in the following months. Although Zachariah's council was reluctant of allowing the Khagan to expand his lands with barely any effort yet again, in both occasions the faction supporting the notion that essentially everyone profited from a stronger Khazaria formed a tie that was broken by Zachariah's own vote.
The voting about the war on Durdzukia mirrored the one on Yegorlyk.
To the surprise of the troops, Zachariah had started to show up more often in the army camps on foreign ground through the past months. Although he seemed sometimes more and sometimes less collected, occasionally drifting into rambling about the perils of a battered foe and the big trouble on the horizons that nobody else yet knew about, the success seemed to have a profound impact on his world view. In the past, he had mainly excused himself to his officers for he feared to contract dieases or getting caught in the crossfire somehow, and over time everybody got used to the Khagan keeping away from military campaigns. But nowadays he seemed to be winged by the recent successes, holding speeches to the soldiers about how proud he was of their bravery and their skill, how everyone feared their force and resistance to them would be futile.
Likewise it was today. The surrender had arrived, and because Zachariah didn't miss an opportunity to bask in admiration lately, he had decided to personally show himself to the troops upon this glorious occasion. The chiefs of Yegorlyk and Durdzukia hadn't been caught - they knew very well how the Khazarian troops tended to behave and accordingly put precautions into place - but beyond their bare lives and an exile in the isolated and impoverished Alania, there was nothing to win for them. In the short negotiations for peace terms, Zachariah had made abundantly clear that he would not accept anything but a complete cessation of the lands.
Zachariah held another emotional, if somewhat lengthy and incoherent speech about the greatness that lay in conquest, the philosophy of war and the inevitablility of sacrifice before declaring to have the new lands pillaged and cleansed from their former inhabitants, just as happened to Kasogia.
Upon hearing of Zachariah's orders in his exile, the Sunni chief Malkhas Varajnuni who had ruled over Durdzukia, deeply shaken by the grim fate that expected his people, uttered that Zachariah was a scourge sent by a vengeful God. This dictum quickly made its way through the region and stuck with the Khazarian troops, as by now many of the men actually believed Zachariah was somehow infused by a divine spirit protecting his mission to push back unbelievers wherever he could. The Jews had been prosecuted and marginalized all over Europe and the Middle East, even though Islam and Christianity ultimately originated from Judaism. The Khaganate was the last beacon of the original belief in one almighty God. Under Court Rabbi Hezekiah, this narrative had recently become a more important part of the Khazarian identity, especially among the soldiers, many of which admired their former Marshal greatly.
And so their Khagan would soon be called "the Scourge of God".
June 22, 886 AD
Bolghar Encampment
It was summer again. Over the past months, it had become more and more distinct that despite the rough winter in the northern steppes, the troops of Batir wouldn't be able to stop the Khazarians. Had the Bolghar forces acted quickly upon the war declaration, they could have stood a chance, but Yavantey of Ezgil's demise at the most inconvenient time prevented that. His son Irkhan had taken until February to finally enter the war. By that time, the reinforcements from the Khazarian Khanates had already arrived and the armies were in position to strike. Over the course of spring, the outnumbered Bolghar and Ezgil armies were successively caught by a growing Khazarian horde before they had a chance to join forces. This had cost them more than half of their men, and any chance to fight back eventually.
As if this wasn't enough, the Kievan Rus had declared their own war on Bolghar to take Cheremisa, the province only conquered from Burtas two years before. With his troops routed, this front would pose another near insurmountable problem to Batir of Bolghar.
Under these grim circumstances, nothing was left to Batir of Bolghar but to surrender to Khazaria. He did so in his own encampment that was now occupied by the high command of his enemy. Marshal Itakh and General Hezekiah were the officials to bear witness and confirm Batir's fealty oath to Khagan Zachariah. Once more, the Khaganate had won a victory, and with less resistance than expected. Khazaria was now the undisputed hegemonial power over the vast lands from the Black Sea to the Ural.
To Batir's great disappointment, the following weeks showed that Zachariah wasn't inclined in any way to take responsibility for his safety. The severely weakened Bolghar Khaganate was soon attacked on several fronts, without Zachariah batting an eye. The call against the Russian invaders went unanswered, and little later a Khan from the Bashkirian lands saw his opportunity.
None of this lead to any reaction from the Khagan in Oleshye, mostly because the Khazarian army was already moving south. The war against Georgia had taken its final toll on Duke Hashim of Aghbania in February. He was caught in an ambush with his personal guard and could only be retrieved heavily injured. A few days later, the Duke died from the injury and left the Duchy to his underage son Ishkhan and his appointed regent, the Duchy's spymaster Zaur of Khatti-Baku.
The boy inherited a myriad of problems: an ongoing war on Georgia with no progress to speak of in years, discontent subjects in the Alan parts of his realm and a supposed suzerain that looted those same Alan lands, in turn stirring up the locals even more. And now the Ashina troops were on their way, after the victory over Bolghar. His regency council would have to be creative.
May 3, 887 AD
Durdzukia, Northern Caucasus
It is absolutely incredible, Marshal Itakh thought to himself while watching his Khagan being carried on a sedan through cheering Khazarian soldiers. They keep succumbing. No one wants to even fight for his life and lands. What is wrong with those wannabe rulers? Or is it actually Zachariah that has some kind of clairvoyance? Maybe that's why he's so hard to understand at times...or that's just because he's a lunatic bastard.
Not long ago, their old fight about the defeat at Or had reemerged upon a rather tasteless remark of Zachariah about Itakh's promotion to Marshal and a sassy rebutt that Zachariah in turn took very personal. This time they were prevented from cudgeling by some brave bystanders, but that only lead to a grudge they now carried on each other. Itakh remembered a story that his late father had once told him about Zachariah and his first meeting with him, when both were still young Khans, and thought to himself that apparently the guy hadn't changed much.
Despite his personal caveats, there was no denying Zachariah's success at conquering land. In a campaign of less than nine months they had won two more provinces populated by Alanian tribes without resistance to speak of. Zachariah's miraculous streak of luck had continued, and soon these lands would be free for more nomads. Upon hearing of the Ashina army moving south last October, the regency council in Aghbania apparently panicked and shed the bulk of their Alanian holdings to avoid open conflict, stating that nothing good had ever come from them owning the lands. Yegorlyk and Durdzukia were made independent overnight – which amounted to leaving them free for conquest.
On their own, there was even less chance of the Alanians defending themselves. Only help from the Bulanid could have prevented what befell the largely unprotected chiefdoms north of the Caucasus summits in the following months. Although Zachariah's council was reluctant of allowing the Khagan to expand his lands with barely any effort yet again, in both occasions the faction supporting the notion that essentially everyone profited from a stronger Khazaria formed a tie that was broken by Zachariah's own vote.
The voting about the war on Durdzukia mirrored the one on Yegorlyk.
To the surprise of the troops, Zachariah had started to show up more often in the army camps on foreign ground through the past months. Although he seemed sometimes more and sometimes less collected, occasionally drifting into rambling about the perils of a battered foe and the big trouble on the horizons that nobody else yet knew about, the success seemed to have a profound impact on his world view. In the past, he had mainly excused himself to his officers for he feared to contract dieases or getting caught in the crossfire somehow, and over time everybody got used to the Khagan keeping away from military campaigns. But nowadays he seemed to be winged by the recent successes, holding speeches to the soldiers about how proud he was of their bravery and their skill, how everyone feared their force and resistance to them would be futile.
Likewise it was today. The surrender had arrived, and because Zachariah didn't miss an opportunity to bask in admiration lately, he had decided to personally show himself to the troops upon this glorious occasion. The chiefs of Yegorlyk and Durdzukia hadn't been caught - they knew very well how the Khazarian troops tended to behave and accordingly put precautions into place - but beyond their bare lives and an exile in the isolated and impoverished Alania, there was nothing to win for them. In the short negotiations for peace terms, Zachariah had made abundantly clear that he would not accept anything but a complete cessation of the lands.
Zachariah held another emotional, if somewhat lengthy and incoherent speech about the greatness that lay in conquest, the philosophy of war and the inevitablility of sacrifice before declaring to have the new lands pillaged and cleansed from their former inhabitants, just as happened to Kasogia.
Upon hearing of Zachariah's orders in his exile, the Sunni chief Malkhas Varajnuni who had ruled over Durdzukia, deeply shaken by the grim fate that expected his people, uttered that Zachariah was a scourge sent by a vengeful God. This dictum quickly made its way through the region and stuck with the Khazarian troops, as by now many of the men actually believed Zachariah was somehow infused by a divine spirit protecting his mission to push back unbelievers wherever he could. The Jews had been prosecuted and marginalized all over Europe and the Middle East, even though Islam and Christianity ultimately originated from Judaism. The Khaganate was the last beacon of the original belief in one almighty God. Under Court Rabbi Hezekiah, this narrative had recently become a more important part of the Khazarian identity, especially among the soldiers, many of which admired their former Marshal greatly.
And so their Khagan would soon be called "the Scourge of God".
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Zacharias relationship with Itakh continues to plummet, Zacharias spymaster best keep a close eye out.
My thoughts upon the event popping up. I remember you commenting a few chapters back that Zach would make a name for himself. Impressive foreshadowing on that
Itakh isn't exactly the greatest plotter, to be fair. Generally it's still oddly quiet on the scheming stage - maybe because in his irrationality and his disdain for politics, Zachariah is easily manipulated into giving people what they want.