XERXES - A Culmination of Events for Persia Now

A Culmination of Events for Persia Now

 

It is the moment that I share my complete complicity in the energetic foray that permeates into the bedrock of old Persia.

 

As an aside, take notice and ponder the truth that currently there is no bloodshed or war in or on the Arabian Peninsula. Rare has been the major battle or war in that heartland.  Recall that Arabia was never part of the Persian Empire.

 

Return now to this. The entire Persian empire to this moment is replete with the conflicts of her past. Of those thrust upon her by my choices during my tumultuous reign.

 

It is now that I am at the helm once more.  I sail through the fog and the mist into the bright and warming sunlight and share this complete truth. My own actions. My own decisions. My own divisive desires created the energies that bled into the sand. That filled the mountains. That poured into the rivers and streams. That flowed into the seas. Again recall that there is no time. There is no separation from my own breathing of the salty air and what you breathe now. It is all that is.

 

Words do not do justice to paint the portraits to archive the experiences that are the foundations for the current horrors playing now.  Know that what is seen and experienced in these moments is a mere fraction of the pain and horror that my decisions caused.  And my own hands on occasion.

 

Know that the culmination of events quickens.  The horrors are revealed. The truth beckons.

 

As this plays out and the nature of all is revealed. I am here.  I own the responsibility as the father of the darkest of the violence against the men and women outside of the Persian borders.

And thus the darkest of the violence has flowed through the lands of ancient Persia to this moment.  Once hidden now in full view.  For all to see. For all to know.  

 

For this is the absolute truth. The energy, once given sacrifice, Fed with the atrocities. Continues the need to feed.  Recall always and once more there is no time.  This energy now is a ferocious beast. Cornered. As the end nears now this energy that all I am is completely complicit in creating requires more than humanity will allow.  Humanity stands tall and strong and says. No More!  Thus this energy must dissipate and flow gently into all that is.  Merging with its counterparts. Creating a balance. Creating a new. Becoming one with all that is.

 

Watch now and archive for all to see as the curtains part. The scenes end.  The players bow. These moments that flow now create the new beginnings that all desire.  

 

Here I am and here we are and here it begins. Truth and abundance for all.  Forever. And more. And Persia and more importantly the new Earth rises.

 

 

XERXES - Our Food

https://www.supergoldenbakes.com/lamb-stew-recipe

Persian Food

The abundance of fruits and vegetables was unmatched in other kingdoms. It was the garden designs using canals and irrigation systems that contributed to this abundance. And while Persia is well known for her stews it was roasted lamb and goat that her people loved best.

The preparation of goat was much different than lamb. Both were treated the same for preparation for stews. But for roasting, lamb was simply rubbed with spices and crushed herbs and fastened to a spit or laid flat on a bed of coals covered by an iron grate. The goat took longer to prepare for a roast. It was soaked overnight in goat's milk. Rinsed and covered with a paste of spices and herbs. Then it was roasted much the same as lamb.

The accompanying dishes were simple. Rice with herbs or saffron. Stewed lentils. Flatbreads. Salads of artichoke. Spinach. Stewed potatoes and carrots. Sliced fruits. Dried fruits. Fresh cheeses and pickled vegetables.

In a traditional Persian household, the first meal of the day would include flat breads. Cheeses and jams. Boiled eggs. Sliced cucumbers and tomatoes. Sliced melon and berries. Dried figs and apricots. Always served with tea.

The mid day meal was usually a stew of meat, beans and vegetables. Or grilled fish and rice. Topped with herbs. Served with a thick flatbread that had a soft, fluffy interior.

A typical family meal for the end of the day included the leftover stew and a variety of stewed or roasted vegetables and platters of sliced fruits. And always a heaping tray of freshly made flat bread.

Traditional Persian feasts often took two days to prepare. The sweet desserts were prepared the day before and allowed to soak overnight in thick layers of honey or rose syrup. Goats were prepared and soaked. The day of the feast the rest of the meats were prepared and marinated. The lamb took hours to absorb the flavors, while poultry and fish were prepared just before roasting. Rice dishes were prepared with herbs and cheeses or simply plain. Stewed vegetables were prepared just before serving. In between the preparation of other dishes, fruits and cold vegetables were sliced and placed on platters then covered with a damp cotton cloth to prevent drying out.

Tar Halva is a very traditional Persian 
dessert made with rice flour, ground
cardamom and butter. It is sweetened
with a light saffron syrup that is mildly
scented with rosewater.
 https://persianmama.com/tar-halva/

And we save the best for last. The drinks. Wines. Ciders from apples and pears. Sweet liquors from peaches and crushed berries. Always served with the rich and decadent desserts of pastries, cakes, and tarts. Always topped with finely chopped pistachios or walnuts or almonds. Decadent and delicious.

XERXES - Pasargadae – The First Garden

Pasargadae – The First Garden

Pasargadae was central in early Persia. It was founded in a lush valley. A hub of travel activity. It was of sorts at a crossroads of both traders and Nomads who traversed the region continuously.

It grew quickly into a petite royal city. An expanse of gardens filled the fertile plains in a network of linear patterns that surrounded irrigation canals. Every manner of waterfowl was introduced to the canals. The gardens were designed by Cyrus himself. Tended to by the many hands of men and women alike who were eager to create the Persian Kingdom..

Here were the first palaces of Persia. Also petite in comparison to the future grand palaces of the empire. Stone and block with tower that provided a miles-long view in four directions. The Western perimeter was reserved for trade and markets. For it was from this direction the prevailing winds wafted the scents of blacksmith fires and of baking and roasting.

The eastern flank was reserved for homes and small barns. For much the same reasons. Animals in the city included oxen and horses. Donkeys. A goat or two in most homes. Hens grazed freely throughout the homes and gardens. The scents of these animals were carried out of the city on the prevailing winds.

The rooster became a revered symbol of Persia. Protected and preserved. A religious symbol of sorts. Other animals gained favor in Peria as well. Travelers from the far east introduced peahens and peacocks. The latter of which became a mainstay of all Persian Palaces from that point. A royal symbol of elegance and beauty. Cats roamed freely in and out of the city keeping the streets clean and rodent free. Dogs were reserved for the Palaces only. Guardians and protectors. Well fed and well loved.

Pasargadae was known by all outlying Kingdoms for its simple grandeur. Its welcoming peoples. Its comforting scents of gardens and of home and hearth. It is for this reason perhaps that Cyrus chose it for his final eternal home.

XERXES - The Heart of Babylon

Artist rendition of the hanging gardens of Babylon

The Heart of Babylon

Great care will be taken with this dialogue. The heart of Babylon began centuries before Persia was created. In many different Epochs as well. Babylon was revered for her beauty and luster in the fertile river valley. It is true and accurate that the landscaping in the valley was admired by other Kingdoms far and near.

Terraces were built along the steep banks of the river. Terraces were also built along the perimeter of the great city. Lush foliage was transplanted. Flowering vines, fruiting shrubs and trees, and all manner of plants were included. Palisades were whitewashed and provided an elegant anchor for the greenery. Known to history as the Hanging Gardens, these lush and vibrant landscapes were exquisite to behold.

While Babylon was known for her gardens. She was known even more for her beautiful daughters. The women of Babylon were elegant and exotic. Protected as any high treasure by all. They were educated in arts and letters. Given roles in trade and general commerce if desired. Given in marriage only when it was a mutual decision.

Babylon was desired by many Kingdoms for many reasons. Cyrus wanted the jewel to be a Nation of Persia. He devised the strategy to take the impenetrable city. His goal was achieved without loss of life. Eventually Babylonians welcomed the new leadership and were welcomed into Persia with warm hearts. Many, many unions were made and the beauty of Babylon was handed down through the lineages of Persians.

It is true and accurate that Cyrus freed the many slaves of many different cultures. Hebrew and African amoung them. All permitted to leave the City and return to their own homelands. This caused initial grief and chaos in the City. Once it was known that Persians themselves would fill the roles and create a better democracy for all, the Babylonians were in agreement.

Babylon's great architecture and landscaping became a foundation and a template for future developing areas. Painstakingly copied in small regions of fertile river valleys within mountain ranges of the region.

But the complete Heart of Babylon. Her lush and vibrant gardens and incomparable daughters would not be found anywhere else ever again. Thus giving Babylon a place in the History of all civilization.

XERXES - Persepolis - the Gate of the People

Entrance to the Gate of Nations

Persepolis - the Gate of the People

It is true and accurate that Persia was a kingdom of many Nations. Some of these Nations came to Persia in request of trade or support or protection. Some Nations encroached on Persia and received due recompense as well as induction into Persia.

Under Cyrus Persia was united in glory and mercy. He was a just ruler with a heart and learned equally from those neighboring kings who sought his counsel. My father Darius fell swiftly into the footsteps of Cyrus through the great council from my Mother Atossa. Who better to know the heart of Cyrus than his daughter. Under Darius and Atossa Persia expanded and thrived.

Darius recognized the need for structure and governance in this expanding kingdom. Persepolis was begun as a capital under the direction of Cyrus. Three generations later my sons and I continued this endeavour. But it was Darius who commanded the construction of the greatest portion of this great city.

In great anticipation I was tasked with the design and construction of a ceremonial hall. One that served as a gateway to the palaces. A gallery of all Nations with space to display the best of the best that was produced in each nation. Pottery, paintings, mosaics, instruments, textiles, and even plants.

Construction of this grand structure began in the Spring. With the dedication of hundreds of hands and nearly a thousand craftsmen the Hall was completed before winter. It is true and accurate that it was dedicated as the Gate of all Nations.

It is more accurate to share that this Hall was the Gate of all peoples. Welcoming benches lined with soft cushions of the finest cotton and silk lined the interior walls. Large, hand carved wooden benches were placed throughout to encourage conversations and to provide edges to a large walkway along the walls.. In the center there were tables with displays of arts and crafts. Any one could bring a piece into this Hall and display it for all Nations of Persia to admire. The Hall was not limited to Persian access. It was a welcoming entry to the dignitaries and royalty from kingdoms both east and west of Persia. It was a jewel in the Persian crown.

Copyright 2023 Terran Cognito

Xerxes - The Nature of Persia

The Nature of Persia

To give detail to the total circumference and the totality of the vastness of Persia would take two lifetimes. Persia was more than a Country. More than a Nation. More than a Kingdom. Persia began as a thought. An idea. A dream. Just as most civilizations or regions or countries have been created. When Atossa’s father Cyrus was still a young man and not yet married he was the son of a tribal leader. Hunters. Merchants. Ironsmiths. Moving from West to East along the centuries old trading routes.

Young Cyrus had a thought. Why not unite with other tribes. Why not create a place. Why not join together to settle a small part of the land in a fertile valley. This thought grew. He spoke of it. Shared it with his father who denied the possibility. To settle and stay in one place was not in their nature. Tribal nomads for centuries do not build block homes by a forest. Tribal nomads are by their very blood and lineage – wanderers.

But the idea persisted within Cyrus and he began to build this dream into a reality. He made a union with a strong woman who gave him strong sons. And another union gave him more sons and Atossa. Cyrus and other tribal leaders decided to take a place. And the wars began. Battle for the lands. Battles for the resources. A homeland. Finally.

As the years and decades grew so did Persia. The great idea born in the heart of Cyrus. A group of Nations. A group of Peoples. Artisans. Craftsmen. Goldsmiths. Ironsmiths. Traders. Merchants. Musicians. Philosophers. The union of all of the great kingdoms and governments of a vast region. All united in one love. Persia.

Darius continued with the dream. Building Persia block by block. Stone by stone. Region by region. Governor by governor. Commander by commander. Adding roads. Cities. Great architecture. When the borders were weakened Darius struck. When nomads appealed for protection. Darius allowed. When the great kingdoms from the far east and the far west recognized Persia. Darius was pleased.

The nature of Persia herself – for she is a feminine energy was a nature of nurture. Nurture the arts. Nurture the creative thoughts. Nurture the children and the families. Nurture the land and the animals and all living therein.

For more than two centuries the great Kings of Kings were given the honour to lead Beautiful Persia. For within the walls of those centuries Persia was glorious and revered and recognized as a vast and expanding Empire.

The end of this Persia as it was known in those moments came swiftly and harshly. It was generations after my own dreams of her. After the dreams of my own sons. And the dreams of their sons. Persia remained a beautiful Empire until the fall of Persepolis at the hands of Alexander.

But Persia did not end in those moments. For the very wives of Alexander were Persian. Their sons and daughters – Persian. And thus each one descended from the great tribal leader who once had a dream to unite a region. And the dream of Persia lives on.

XERXES - Persepolis

Persepolis
(image courtesy http://persepolis.nu)

Persepolis Foundations

The plan for this magnificent location began with Cyrus - the Father of my Mother. The location selected for its prominence in trade routes. These routes passed through the fertile valleys connecting East to West that at that time took months and years to travel end to end.

Magnificent shelter from the nearby mountain was selected. The plans also placed Persepolis on the west side so as to gather the complete benefits and glory of the setting sun. This plan proved strong and well suited. The climate of the region was extreme with the seasons and this design along with the architecture of the structures provided advancements in comfort.

Two rivers flowed gently nearby and this location gave fruit to the most simple of irrigation and water aqueduct designs. All were complex of course for their times, but Cyrus and Darius were great minds with genuine intellect and wonder. Darius fulfilled the dream of Cyrus within the structures of Persepolis.

Cyrus was revered and memorialized in every stone. In every wall. In every hall. Eternal for that epoch. Darius ensured that the legacy of the King of Kings would continue through the generations in the magnificent design and displays of Persepolis.

To begin now.. The perimeter of this great city included the slope of the adjacent mountain. The foundations of the Western and Southern walls were raised and built to prevent the waters from infiltrating during the spring floods. The foundations in the North included faceless structures to limit the cooler winds of winter and early spring. Structures for horse and oxen were along the Northern face. This area was selected to limit the fragrances from the livestock during the prevailing winds of the hot and arid summers. And of course to provide a subtle warmth during the colder times.

Also located along this perimeter were the merchants and industriants of copper and silver and gold and other metals. Blacksmiths. Swordsmiths. Goldsmiths. Those works that included great fires and expansive spaces to produce the adornments. The swords and the shields.. And the pots and the knives.

Homes were built on the exterior of the Southern and Western walls and were of simple stone and mortar construction with timber supports and roof coverings. These included the central towers shared previously. To provide the natural cooling effects in the heat of long days.

The interior of Persepolis was home to the Halls and Galleries. And of course what is revered as a great palace. A central promenade was designed to connect the exterior merchants and industriants, and the residents to the central area for education and entertainment.

For all of the historical references of Persepolis. None match the true intention. Construction. Grandeur. And of course the complexity of the place.


Denice Note: Was directed to locate some Persian music.

Listened to this while transmitting. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wwrTHFwYRDQ

Copyright 2023  Terran Cognito

Xerxes- A short glimpse of one moment in-between

 

A short glimpse of one moment in-between

This glimpse of a stoic image is purchased with both love and fond memories. We were a young family. My father’s wives were young and beautiful. My brothers were agile, mischievous, delighted in their freedoms. My sisters were soft and gentle. Yet precocious and often nosy. These were the fond moments. When days were long and productive. When fruits were falling from the trees and all hands were needed to gather and preserve and eat to their fill.

In these in between moments. When the men were home for a time from their pursuits of war and the women and children were complete. These were the moments that weave a tapestry of the ideal life. Good and plentiful food. Children with not a care in the world. Wives comforted with merely a simple glance from their men. Music played. Poetry written. And nights spent in great company beneath the stars.

Now for one specific scene. The men were home after a months long journey east. The small battle nearly forgotten. The early summer harvests begun. Busy moments ensued. Father called for a feast. No occasion. Just a simple feast. Mother and her sisters were joyous. Although the preparation for a feast consumed a whole day the results were always worth it.

An early morning hunt produced rabbits and a small doe. The gardens were alive with green herbs and radishes and onions and root vegetables small and tender. Fires were lit. The meat was roasted. The dishes prepared. The tables set out in the courtyard. Flowers collected by the younger girls were wrapped into wreaths and garlands. And why not? Life is meant to be celebrated. Sweets were prepared with thin and delicate pastries drenched in chopped nuts and warm honey.

Everyone ate. Talked. Laughed. Hours passed. The sun set. The children ran and giggled. The older boys talking loudly of manly pursuits within range of the lovely young ladies. These lovely young ladies smiling and making eyes at the young men. All in a perfect end to a perfect day. And when the scraps were removed and the tables taken down and the fires reduced to dim orange waves on thick heaps of charcoal. Everyone was satisfied. Complete. A day well lived.

These are the moments that could be once more. These in-between moments could become the every moment. It is the way life is meant to be? It is an intriguing wonder.

Copyright 2023 Terran Cognito

Xerxes - The Roles of Men

Xerxes, image from Wikipedia,
altered slightly in photoshop

The Roles of Males

Young Persian males were raised by their own mothers, aunts, and grandmothers for the first few years of their lives. When toddlerhood faded boys were sent to elders and wise men to be trained in reading, writing, the arts, astronomy, and more. Afternoons and evenings were spent running, playing, as well as working in the fields and barns alongside the men.

Concurrently when they reached early manhood around age 14 these lessons and chores were reduced and the training in the skills of war were begun. Archery, horsemanship, spear throwing, and leadership skills were amoung the top desired skills of course. There was little time allotted for the pursuit of girls.

Men were trained in battalions of 100. These battalions were led by the highest officials in the village or town. Training concluded by the age of 20 if not called to war before then. The call to arms to train with the battalion was made monthly and lasted only two days. This kept the men strong and agile.

When not training men were employed in various jobs. Tending to the field was beneath no one and at the time of planting all hands played a role. Tending to the stallions. Care of the chariots and carts. Merchants. Craftsmen. And of course full time guards and soldiers.

Men took wives soon after they completed the rigorous first training. The young lovers kept house with the girl’s parents until the first child or two came. It was then that a separate house was prepared and it was here that a second wife was taken. This second wife moved into the home with the young family but maintained her own quarters of a room or two. The number of wives a man had could vary. He could also take concubines that he did not marry. Divorce was rarely sought in a Persian household.

Given fortunate circumstances a man could live into his eighties. His heirs could number in the hundreds at the time of his death. The goal for every Persian man was to have as many sons as possible. Persian men held this as the measure of their success.

Copyright 2023 Terran Cognito

Xerxes - The Sons of Darius

 

Xerxes.
Image from Wikipedia, with added photoshop clarifications

The Sons of Darius

The multitude of sons of Darius is owed to his good health. His endless vitality. His love of beautiful women. And most importantly his Persian lineage and loyalty to the bloodline. You find 11 sons. I share that there are 20 or more sons that are known. To call them lesser sons is a misnomer.

Any known son of Darius was treated with the utmost respect and placed in powerful positions within the ranks and within the household. Most were sent out at emissaries and became leaders with regional authority and jurisdiction or commanded great armies. But recall that only the sons of the important bloodlines were treated to the complete royal life. That included my brothers by my mother and her sisters.

The three eldest brothers and sons of my father’s first union were thick and sturdy like their mother’s father the landowner. Built for strength and endurance. Of these the youngest was my first friend. Only two years older than I he was the one who desired my company and allowed me entry to their childhood games. He was kind and generous and I enjoyed his company. The older were tolerant of me but protective of their own mother and this often caused some strife between us.

In our early years none of us knew of the internal struggles to come with the death of our father. But let us remain in our youth for a bit longer now. Allow me to group the brothers with their mother’s in mind. Recall my father took many wives. He also made unions with other women both wittingly and unwittingly.

My mother’s sons were to become the full sword and shield of the Achaemenid bloodline. Her own father was a son of a son of a King of Kings. That in itself strengthened the family hold on the Persian throne. Her lineage was enough removed from the original to only be strengthened by the union with my father. The sons of Atossa were revered the most and this was known throughout the lands.

Our younger brothers were treated as younger brothers are often treated. Teased. Taunted. And loved. My mother’s sisters gave Darius four more sons. Four more heirs to secure the Achaeminid line. The irony is these wives also gave Darius most of his daughters and therefore most of his troubles. Recall that Darius was a good and strong father who doted on his heirs. He left the raising of his daughters to their mothers. And this makes for another story at another moment.

A handful of sons were the result of Darius’ travels. These unions might last a month but not much longer. When a son was later born Darius was alerted by those loyal to him and the son and mother were brought into the palace. Most were content with this position.

As in most families there is a stray or two and this is true in the instance of our extensive family. Two of my father’s younger sons left never to return. The first was the son of a woman with whom Darius had only one child. The fortunate union between the two was a brief encounter in Darius’ travels east farther from the reach of his own loyal men. When Darius learned of this son years later he sent for the mother and child to be housed within the palace. The son was treated well. The mother was treated well. When the son came of age the mother returned to her people. The son remained for a short time. He left later never to be heard from again.

The other wanderer was born from a fraught union. His mother the daughter of a Commander in Darius’ army. A union created on a chance encounter after a well placed dinner. The daughter young and enticing to the rarely satisfied Darius. The Commander was unhappy with the mix. The daughter was delighted. Purposeful. Ambitious. She gave birth to a healthy boy but when she learned there was no place in the palace for her beside Darius she disfigured her own child. The damage was irreparable. This young woman was swifted away by her father so that no retribution would be made by Darius. The child was raised in the palace. His every want and need was attended to. His desire was near isolation and the company of only one or two scholars to quench his unending thirst for knowledge. He left in the night. Unaccompanied. Never to return.

Although Darius sent others to follow and to trace the path of these young sons. No word was ever received of the final destination of these prodigal sons or of their individual destinies.

There of course are endless stories of the lives of the sons of Darius. It is within these records that I desire to provide an image of the moments that are a summation of the lineage. Details too many to share here. The sons of Darius gave sons to the Achaemenid line and within these numbered well into one hundred grandsons. Thus lives the evidence that the lineage of the King of Kings did not die within the house of the Achaemenid. Persia lives on to this moment.



Copyright 2023  Terran Cognito

XERXES - My Mother: Atossa

 

My Mother: Atossa

My father called her Attoples. (Uh-top-o-leez). She was his third and favorite wife, Atossa, daughter of Cy-rees the Great. Although more wives followed. This one union brought Darius I, great pleasure. Great joy. Great progeny. And magnificent lineage to seal the throne of his empire for generations.

Atossa was lean and limber and of course very beautiful. She was sharp witted yet cool tongued and this gave entrance to the conversations of men. She was soft yet determined. Never cruel but pragmatic. Warm hearted and comforting to those close in her circle. Circumspect with those not yet familiar.

History has not been kind to her. The Greeks have written of her with some disdain. Flawed is that text. She was a great confident to her brother. He trusted her alone with advice. This gave outsiders and unfamiliars improper ideas about them. It was innocent. That is all to be said of that now.

Her first love was indeed my father. Poor woman. She was young. Royal. Courted by many royals from far away lands. Darius I wanted her. Cy-rees was pleased with the union. Atossa was delighted also. The nuptials were swift, the gift exchanges accepted with gratitude and off the couple went to share time alone. It was during these moments that I was conceived. In love on her part. In desire for a fine lineage on his part. That made for a very acceptable beginning, as he treated her very well always.

As their union expanded with more sons, Darius trusted her more and more with his royal business. Lands, food stores, education, arts, celebrations were all now part of her day to day responsibilities along with caring for young sons.

Her life was complete. Full. She was forever doting and disciplining her sons. Proud yet open to all support from others of their best upbringing. She was a staunch disciplinarian. Furtive was the son that thought he could sway her when he was wrong. When right, she was stalwart and doting to her sons.

Life in the company of Atossa was always full of pleasure. She was bright and thoughtful. Her sons adored her. Her daughter wanted to emulate her. Her two younger sisters admired her without jealousy as they too joined the royal house of Darius bearing him more sons.

It was this family unity and support that provided for a wondrous childhood. We children were supported and spoiled and cared for above all else. These days provide memories that to this very moment of now warm my heart.

Atossa was integral in my entrance to manhood. She selected those who would train me. She worked with those who provided my classical education. She warned off any who would cause me misdirection or harm.

There is more to the story of Atossa. For now. I leave her here to rest. Let us visit her once again as we explore more together at another moment.

Transmission Notes from Denice: 

Sept 20, 2023

 

Terran: Do you get a feel of his voice when he communicates?

Denice: Yes. His voice is deep powerful. His tone is sublime. He has been through it all. Sharing the good parts in between feels very important. 

 

Denice: I had a visit from Atossa the other morning. Quick visual with two moving images.

Denice: First, she had her long hair down and was in a formal coral colored gown with a full skirt that was textured, or embroidered with designs and had a three-quarter length sleeve matching. She had a few small white streaks in her hair. She twirled a bit to show me her gown and smiled.

 

Denice: Next, she was dressed in a pale pink American style women's sleeveless dress, matching shoes, and her hair was pulled back in a bun. She walked to me and patted me on the right shoulder. She was smiling.  

Denice: No audio with either video*. Feels like the second image is her now.  

*Terran note: "Video" is our term for telepathic images that are in motion like a movie.  I get them as well but I am not as skilled at it as Denice is. They also can be from multiple "camera angles which one can rotate through for a better view.  I sometimes struggle for the right words to use, as this is not remote viewing in the military sense of it, with blind targets.  This is often full on 4K imagery if you will for the image definition quality.  This is not blind men in Plato's cave describing an elephant.

Copyright 2023 - Terran Cognito 

Xerxes - My Father: Darius

 

My Father: Darius

As is true in the beginning of most unions my young mother adored her strong and handsome husband. Their time alone was cherished. He adored her as well and gave her every attention possible when two are in the beginning of a new union. That is true and accurate. What is also true and accurate is that the first, initial adoration between the two was short lived. Darius had a shorter span of adoration than most men of his stature and when mother became with child – me – father began to show attention to other women quite quickly.

But this story is not of my mother’s treatment. Rather this is the story of Darius. The side unseen by human eye. This is true of most great ones who are only chronicled by their enemies for historical purposes. So this story of Darius is the side unseen.

We began with his journey out of the wood. Post battle. Separated from his men. He was the leader then of that battle. His men were decimated. He was alone. He journeyed past the field of the benevolent landowner who befriended him. Joined his household through his recovery. And married the eldest, most beautiful of the landowner’s daughters. That much we have said.

What was not yet shared is that these moments with this benevolent host and his gracious family changed the life of the Great Darius sure and well. Darius was treated with kindness and respect but this was not the luxury and constant support of which he was accustomed as the son of a king.

It was on this bucolic land that my father gained insight into the human condition. It was on this plot of farmland that my father gained insight into the ingenuity and possibilities of the human mind. It was in this healing and rustic environment my father created his vision for the future of Persia.

It is true my father was the third king of Persia in his immediate line. It is true and accurate that his title known far and wide was ‘King of Kings’. This was not a self-given title by those who reigned before him. The title was the gift of the ancient Asian empire of Zheng to my father’s third father before.

Darius grew in these moments of solace to be a thinking man. To imagine the great possibilities that innovation and architecture could bring to Persia. He imagined buildings and bridges and even boats as he healed his body.

Returning now to his time of my birth, Darius was a strong and influential guide in my upbringing yet he left the daily duties of care and decisions to my mother. By my first year my father had already taken another bride and created new life within her. My mother was not slighted by this move as the bride was her own dear sister.

The country estate was booming with family and friends and Darius was well pleased. It was from here that he met with his advisors to plan the great cities of Persia. These cities are known Persepolis. Tynad, Senchort. Lesser known are Tylama, Bagzhat, Meliopor. All lost to historical function now. Deserted and desert. But known and loved in our lifetime.

To continue with the pleasing perspective of Darius. He was strong. Vital. Innovative. Loyal to his bloodline. Considerate of the women in his life. Discrete. Temperate. And often solemn. His story is told by those who feared him and by more who abhorred him. As is true of most great ones, the absolute story is rarely known.

Copyright 2023 - Terran Cognito

Xerxes - One Story: The Girl in the Apricot Gown

 

One Story: The Girl in the Apricot Gown

When the road ends and one turns to look back. In complete reflection. All that remains are the stories. And that one single truth is absolute for all who have come before us. And all who follow.

These stories of my life in Persia are not limited to me. The expanse of history and lives well lived precedes me. And follows me. My stories are but a small scene in a larger tapestry. Let us share one such scene now.

I return to the girl in the apricot gown. Standing barefoot in the stream. Pale streaks of sunlight peaking through the heavy canopy dropping diamonds on the water for her to admire. She tucks her long hair back. She looks over her shoulder at a small bird chirping on the nearby bank. Smiles. Chestnut eyes smiling.

Recalling the scents and sounds as I lay there under cover of shade on the eastern edge of the stream behind her, I am complete. The scene is heart filled. She does not notice me and I do not give away my place. On that particular day.

There is an opportunity that follows. I hid once more. I waited. Watched. She moved. She sang. She was delightful to behold. I leapt forward, but she moved swiftly, not aware I was behind. Was she even aware of my presence?

There is a moment to share here of my previous transmissions. If you feel inspired to include a short vignette of that waterfall and sweet water stream so many aeons ago?

I share this image. She was older. Long brown tresses loosely flowing and caught in the slight breeze. She was looking down at her feet. I did not have that vantage. That view from her eyes.

My eyes were locked on her through the greenery. The foliage fluttering in unison with her immaculate hair. Her garb was a pale orange. Not the color of a ripened peach yet not as subtle as the heart of a passion fruit.

Yes. We had the luxury of both fruits in our abundant orchards. Though you may not find a source external to this telling.

I watched. I had begun the turmoil of manhood. Youth was forsaken now. I often wandered to my hidden refuge after the rigorous training with broad sword.

I crawled forward. Silently as if i was a hibernating snake. Slow but with purpose.

I lifted the branch of a small oak. Sycamore. It matters not that particular detail. I caught the scent of her. Foreign. Delightful. Unlike the women of our compound. Unlike any female i had ever met.

Her feet were bare. I did not have the moment to search for her sandals. The hem of her gown was soaked in the stream. Darker than the rest. A small thin swath of fabric danced with her brown locks. But not in any rhythm i recognized.

She hummed a tune. Softly. Elegantly. Sweetly. To say she sounded of the angels would be fool hearty. All beauties sound like an angel when the young male heart first falls upon one.

I waited. I watched. My heart lept as she slipped through the soft waters and up and over the opposite bank.

She was gone! And then I was after. There was a noise from behind. I did not turn to see the maker. I only moved forward. Into and across the small expanse of cool water. Up and over the tufts of long grass.

She was gone. It was instant. Not a sound ahead to follow.

It was for me to retreat to the call of my brothers behind me then. And I leave this moment. This visual here.

So I return to the years previously discussed. There was so much laughter and love shared. And again I say how the children and the youth were spared from the pain and suffering that would soon part the curtains of our adolescence and young adulthood.

Before the call to train. Before the call to separate the warriors from the workers. We stayed fit and full with days filled with movement and wonderful foods. Not a worry ahead for any young boy or perhaps even young girls. Although I reiterate that we did not wander with the girls. The natural separation flowed without quandary. It was a simple divide of purpose and of pleasure.

It occurs to me now this was perhaps even by design although never stated. Was it the guise of the adults to whisper this convoluted separation without advancement? Perhaps. Perhaps it was the nature of our culture. To ease the children into adulthood. To prepare the youth for the formidable future.

I share this thought now. Perhaps no one is ever free from the designs of others?

This retrospect is fraught with danger that spoils the divinely delightful youth of our Dear Persia.

There is more. Yet I leave you with this image. In all that is. I am Xerxes.

To continue as the moments flow and my recall is in play, I will share one more scene of the girl in the apricot gown. I feel now that I will not reveal her name. That gives more pause to the reader. Mystery? More that I protect her value through these words and the historical documents once in writing.

This day she was in blue. Soft, gentle, flowing blue. Lighter than the sky or the sea. More of the bird’s egg in a spring nest. Sitting on the same bank that I had before hidden my presence. Her scent still intoxicating. Her eyes still chestnut with flecks of pale sunlight sparkling when she smiled. I approached without hiding. Sat beside her. I gave her my name. She did not respond

Birds sang in the distance.. Sunlight streamed through the canopy. The stream hummed a beautiful tune to set the scene for our first encounter.

She was my first beloved. Even before that moment. I was not yet a complete man. Though I felt manly. She was not yet a complete woman. Though she was ahead of me.

Our soft spoken exchange is private and will remain so always. She was breathtaking for a young one like me. She was perfect. We made one and only one arrangement. We would meet on this bank once more. I was to bring a blanket and some wine. She was to bring some fruit and some bread. And although we did not know it at that first conversation. We would share a moment that would not ever be forgotten. And is now documented for history.

And that is where we must leave the reader to notice and wonder? Imagine the encounter. Indeed the encounter was more than anyone could ever imagine.

Copyright 2023  - Terran Cognito

Xerxes - The Battles and the Wars

The Battles and the Wars

Little tribute will be paid to these topics. Enough has been chronicled about the loss of life and the general horrors of battle. It is no more. The lessons have been learned. To reflect any more would pay an undeserved honour to the idea of conquest. Of rampage. Of burned out lives ruined forever.

Instead let us share the moments in between and pay our focus here. The moments of reunion. Of complete and utter joy at the return of loved ones from months and years on the road far too far away from home.

The image of the men returning by ship. Grand vessels sailing across turquoise waters to the rocky precipice and sandy beaches and safe harbours of loved ones. The healing. The grace. The gratitude. The feasts and parties and long, long embraces.

The aging women. Nearly broken with grief and longing, with crooked shoulders bent over pots in wait for a son or even husband. Stews prepared daily for the inevitable return. The young mother with a new young son, greeting her husband as he lofts his heir into the sky with joyful play, delighted to meet this new one.

And daughters, on hearing the news of the return of fleets, gather daisies and violas and pink roses, creating wreaths twined with ivy to decorate the doors for the festive reunions. Of barrels opened and casks opened and fires far and wide roasting deer and mutton and perhaps even that cranky old ox that refused the plow for the last time.

Of music. Oh the music! Lute and lyre. Harp and drum. The tambourines. Of poets reveling in the coins granted to write of the returning heroes. Music into the night and morning. Dancing of old and young. Hand in hand, arm in arm, swinging and trotting to the beats ringing throughout the place.

And days later when the reverie slows, the families begin to fall into the old routines. The injured, healing quietly in the care of their own. The fallen remembered with love and tenderness in honour of their far away graves.

And weeks later, after seeds are planted and all are tended to, it is the moment to move forward. Plans made. Ideas fermented. Families and friends and neighbors safe and satisfied for the moment.

These are the moments to remember. The moments in between the wars. To give honour to those who tended the hearths while the warriors were gone. To give gratitude for those who returned. And to carve memorials to those who did not.

Copyright 2023 - Terran Cognito

XERXES: A Short Message

A Short Message From Xerxes

as received by *Denice

December 20, 2022

THIS MOMENT OF YOUR "EARTH" TIMELINE IS BUT A BRIEF ASPECT OF THE WHOLE. CONSIDER THE "AGE" OF PERSIA. AEONS AGO. A MOMENT AGO. A BREATH AWAY.

THAT IS THE MINUTE SEGEMENT OF TIME/SPACE/CONTINUUM PERMITTED FOR ONE TO "EXPERIENCE". A BRIEF ASPECT.

CONSIDER THIS. YOU AS A HUMAN STAND ON THE PRECIPICE OF THE GREATEST MOMENT IN  ALL OF  HUMAN "HISTORY".

THAT PRECIPICE IS NOW. DO YOU TUMBLE OVER THE EDGE WITH THE CRUMBLING ROCKS OR DO YOU TAKE A SLIGHT STEP BACK AND GROUND YOURSELF FIRMLY AS ALL THAT IS IN FRONT OF YOU FALLS AWAY?

GOOD MAN!

IN THESE MOMENTS. YOU ARE SURROUNDED BY ALL OF CREATION.  I WAS. I AM. IT IS IN THIS RETROSPECT THAT I SHARE FROM MY OWN EXPERIENCE. MY OWN DEMISE.

WHAT IS NEXT IS OF COURSE NOT YET SEEN. NOT YET REVEALED. HOWEVER. IT IS WELL PLANNED. WELL CONSTRUCTED. AND WELL OBSERVED AND DOCUMENTED.

TAKE THAT SLIGHT STEP BACK AND GROUND YOURSELF NOW.  IT IS HERE.

I AM AS ALWAYS.

XERXES. 

*Denice has an Andromeda communications implant in her ear.  She is also a skilled telepath.  It was not stated how this particular message was received.  It was not channeled. Xerxes has a craft located somewhere in the former kingdom of Persia.  There are other messages from him on this blog. This message seems directed at both the planet and a particular individual. 

Xerxes 4/18/22

A road through the trees of Persia

Xerxes 4/18/22

Xerxes: The Magnificence

Behold the splendor that awaits you. Awaits you at your leisure.  The canvas is prepared and the scenes etched out with the boldest of greens and blues.

Yes the marvel and wonder of the hanging gardens is a mere speck in the eye of creation.  Know that the magnificence is.

I leave you now with this heartfelt invitation.  Open your heart to all that is.

Formally

Xerxes

4/19/22

Terran: Is Xerxes on the New Earth?

Denice: No. 😊

Denice: I am getting the feels that we are on the new/original earth. Little parts are showing through. 

Denice: The weather is crisp, cool, and clear here again. Amazing!

Terran: Im trying to understand the context of his message.

Denice: In what way?

Terran: Well he describes a scene which is more beautiful than the hanging gardens… 

Denice: Yes

Terran: Is he describing where hes at?

Denice: Ask him?

Denice: 🤩

Denice: If you have a minute?

Terran: Xerxes would you be so kind as to elaborate on your message yesterday?

Xerxes: TERRAN. I SHARE BIUT A SAMPLE OF WHAT IS BEFORE YOU AND AROUND YOU AS YOU OPEN YOUR HEART. THE COMPLETE MAGNIFICENCE IS ALL. I KNOW YOU HAVE A PENCHANT FOR DETAILS OF WHAT. WHERE. AND WHY.  ALLOW ME THE PRIVILEGE OF THIS.  ALL IS HERE. IT ALWAYS WAS. 

Terran: So this would be an encouragement similar tp Thor’s last message about the new Earth? Allow and let it flow?

Terran: “Let go of concepts” as Thor put it?

Xerxes: THIS IS A WHOLE HEARTED INVITATION. OPEN YOUR HEART. TASTE THE WIND. SMELL THE COOL WATERS. SEE THE SPRING NESTS ERUPTING WITH SONG.HEAR THE BLUE BELLS SCENT OF SUMMER. ALL IS YOURS. ALL IS YOURS. 

Terran: Is my heart so closed?

Xerxes: TERRAN.THIS IS AN INVITATION. NOT AN ACCUSATION. YOU KNOW IF YOUR HEART IS OPEN. YOU KNOW WHEN YOU OPEN YOUR HEART. ALL THE MAGNIFICENCE FLOWS THROUGH YOU. INTO ALL. BREATHE DEEPLY THE FREQUENCIES THAT APPROACH YOU AND THE FREQUENCIES THAT YOU FLOW.   

Terran: I will.  Thank you for clarifying.  I’m doing the best i can in these very turbulent energies.  I’m setting aside my desires for the details of how it happens and just trusting the flow of the Magnificence.

Xerxes: TERRAN. YES. IN YOUR MOMENTS OF RESPITE FEEL ALL WHO SUPPORT YOU NOW.   I RETREAT NOW WITH THE SIMPLE REQUEST THAT WE ONCE AGAIN HAVE A SHORT MEETING. 

Xerxes: AT YOUR CONVENIENCE. 

I AM XERXES. 

A conversation with Xerxes on 10/10/2021Some clarifications on his location, means of transportation, status in form, and intentions.

Terran note:  Xerxes clarifies a few points we've been wondering about.  Is he in form? Is he on a ship?  Where was he before he came back to Persia.    For more information on "the divines" see "NAMES. ICONS and Glossary" tab on the blog header.

A conversation with Xerxes on 10/10/2021

Denice: Are you free for a short one on one with Xerxes? He seems to want to clarify a point or two.

Terran: Sure when?

Denice: Now?

Terran: Ok

Xerxes: I AM XERXES. IT IS ZER-SEES. FAMILIAR?

Terran: Vaguely. I’m missing most of memories, but they are returning slowly

Xerxes: I SEND YOU MY GREAT APPRECIATION NOW.

Xerxes: WE HAVE BEGUN A DIALOGUE. I WANT TO SHARE MORE.

Denice: (brb phone call)

Terran: I send my greetings as well. Were we acquainted in Persia?

Terran to Denice: (I feel Nabrac in heart)

Terran to Denice: (Getting an image of a strong dark haired man, very muscled. Not sure who the man is, me or Zer-sees?). [I think the image I received might be Xerxes - but I am not certain - found something similar with google that carries a similar energy although the image I found has tattoos, the image I got did not have tattoos]

Xerxes: NOT ACQUAINTED IN MY PHYSICAL INBODYMENT IN PERSIA.

Xerxes: FIRST CLARIFICATION. IT IS NOT MY INTENTION TO BEAT MY OWN DRUM.

Xerxes: HERE I EXPLORE THE PARAMETERS THAT PROVIDE A BACKGROUND OF MY EXPERIENCE.

Terran: Your story is intriguing.

Xerxes: ANOTHER CLARIFICATION. YOU AND OUR HOSTESS HAVE DISCUSSED MY PRESENT LOCATION. YOU ARE BOTH CORRECT IN PART.

Xerxes: SO I SHARE THIS. A SMALL DIGRESSION. I TAKE FULL AND COMPLETE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE DEMISE OF PERSIA. THIS IS A COMPLEX ISSUE TO BE DISCUSSED IN FULL LATER.

Xerxes: I AM IN/OF PERSIA NOW. YOU MIGHT CONSIDER MY LOCALE IN A “SHIP/CRAFT”. I CONSIDER IT OUR NEW PERSIA. OVERLAYED.

Terran: Are you affiliated with any groups/star nations I converse with?

Xerxes: NO.

Xerxes: I AM OF ANTIQUITY. I ONCE ENJOYED THE STATUS OF WHAT YOUR FRIENDS TERM “THE DIVINES”. 

Terran: Ahhh. Know them well.

Xerxes: I HAVE DETERMINED MY OWN CONTRIBUTIONS TO BE OF A DIFFERENT NATURE NOW.

Terran: All things begin anew.

Xerxes: YES.

Xerxes: TIMELESS.

Xerxes: ANOTHER CLARIFICATION. I AM IN FORM. I WALK AMONG THOSE WHO ARE DETERMINED TO STEER THE FUTURE OF OUR PERSIA.

Terran: So much energy churning in that region. The people need peace.

Xerxes: I KNOW MY CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE HORRORS AND CASUALTIES OF AGGRESSION MUST BE RECLAIMED.

Terran: There is no judgement only love.

Xerxes: IT IS MY DUTY TO RETURN PEACE AND BEAUTY TO MY HOMELAND.

Terran: Your deep love of Persia is heart felt here.

Xerxes: THIS HAS BEEN A VERY PLEASANT COMMUNICATION.

Terran: Have we met?

Xerxes: YES. I KNOW YOUR HEART.

Xerxes: I DO WISH TO CONTINUE THE EXCHANGE.

Terran: I’m here anytime you wish to dialogue.

Terran: I’ve had my “kingly” adventures on this planet. Not a role I care to revisit.

Xerxes: THE TIME FOR US TO RENEW AND REBUILD IS NOW.

Terran: I am told I was once known to be an architect. Not that I have much memory of that.

Xerxes: AND THAT WE SHARE A COMMON LOVE

Terran: Denice (“our hostess”) shared some architecture images of ancient Persia and how the buildings were cooled with the prevailing winds.

Xerxes: YES. ONE OF MANY SIMPLE DESIGNS THAT IMPROVE THE LIVES OF ALL. 

Xerxes: AND WHAT COMES NEXT IS THE BEST OF ALL THAT IS.

Terran: Heather and Thor have said similar words of what is to come.

Terran: The Persian people are very intelligent and gifted. Many live in Los Angeles where I once lived.

Xerxes: CLOSING THE DIALOGUE NOW. TO RETURN AT ANOTHER MOMENT.

Terran: Very good to talk you. Until next time then! Warm regards! Terran.

Xerxes - Part 5 - One last mischief before manhood

Terran note: As received by Denice from Xerxes. Denice thinks Xerxes is now in Afghanistan, he's not on a galactic ship to our knowledge.  Xerxes has not stated where he is at. Afghanistan was once part of the Persian Empire. The puzzle that is Afghanistan in this moment gets deeper.  

October 8, 2021

One Last Mischief Before Manhood

IT DEEMS IMPORTANT TO SHARE THE PERSPECTIVES OF YOUTH UNWASTED. IT WAS GLORIOUS. AND TO SPEAK OF THE WEALTH OF OPPORTUNITIES FOR GENTLE PLEASURES BEFORE THE ROUGHER DUTIES OF MANHOOD PRESENTED ITSELF TO US!  

AT THE AGE OF TEN OR ELEVEN WE PERSIAN BOYS WERE TREATED AS KINGS. IT WAS AS IF THE ADULTS KNEW OF OUR FUTURE NOT YET FORETOLD AND GATHERED UP EVERY MOMENT TO SPOIL AND TREAT US WITH MORE CARE THAN CAN BE IMAGINED. 

 IF WE DESIRED AND ADVENTURE IN THE WOODED FORESTS, IT WAS PERMITTED AND ENCOURAGED. WE WERE NOT AWARE THEN OF THE WATCHFUL EYES OF THE MEN KEPT HIDDEN FAR ENOUGH AWAY.

ON MORE THAN ONE OCCASSION IN THE HEAT AND STILLNESS OF LATE SUMMER, WE TRODGED THROUGH THE FORESTS TO THAT FAVORITE SPOT OPENED TO THE EXPANSE OF STARS. WE WOULD BATHE IN THE STREAM TO COOL OURSELVES. EAT FROM THE MANY BASKETS OF FRUITS, MEATS, AND BREADS THAT WERE CAREFULLY PACKED FOR US.  AND DRINK TO OUR FILL.  FLASKS OF WATERED WINE WERE NOT UNUSUAL IN THOSE LAST DAYS OF YOUTH

WE SHARED STORIES TOLD TO US BY OUR ELDERS, TOLD TO THEM BY ANCIENT ONES WE HAD NEVER MET.  AND IN THE FEW HOURS BEFORE THE ENTRY OF OUR SUN INTO THE MORNING SKY, WE WOULD SETTLE DOWN ON BLANKETS WOVEN WITH COLORFUL DESIGNS.  EMBLEMS OF OUR RICH UPBRINGING AND FORTUNATE YOUTH.

IT WAS AFTER ONE SUCH ADVENTURE THAT WE OLDER OF THE BOYS STAYED BEHIND TO TEND THE FIRE AND PLAY IN THE STREAM.  FOUR OF US. OR WAS IT FIVE?  WE FELT THE PULL TO MANHOOD THAT WELLS UP IN THE GUT OF EVERY BOY AT SOME POINT.  THE SWEETNESS OF OUR YOUTH AND FREEDOM FADING, WE WERE BECOMING AWARE OF THE WORK THAT APROACHED US.  THE TRAINING IN THE WAYS OF WAR. THE RIGID SCHEDULES OF PREPARATION FOR THE EXPANSION OF OUR BELOVED PERSIA.  IT WAS SPOKEN IN HUSHED TONES AROUND THE EVENING TABLES BY THE ADULTS.  AND THE YEARS AHEAD FOR US WERE PLANNED BY THE GENERALS AND THE COUNCILORS WHO STEERED OUR FATES.

NOW I REFLECT AND PONDER. WHAT FORCES UNSEEN WHISPERED INTO THE DREAMS OF OUR LEADERS TO CREATE SUCH A SAVAGE FUTURE FOR OUR PEOPLE?  THE PRINCIPLES UNDERLYING THE SPREAD OF WAR AND CONQUEST WERE NOT SEEN IN THE LIGHT OF DAY.  THE IDEA TO TAKE AND TAKE AND TAKE WAS SURELY SPARKED IN SOME UNKNOWN DARKNESS TO BE SPREAD OVER DECADES AND DEACADES OF GOVERNANCE?

THIS DIGRESSION HAS PAST AND I SHARE WARMTH AND APPRECIATION TO OUR KIND HOSTESS WHO KEEPS THESE MOMENTS FOCUSED.

TO THE LAST MISCHIEF BEFORE MY MANHOOD.

IT WAS AT THE EXPENSE OF A GROUP OF YOUNG SOLDIERS. CAMPED NOT FAR FROM THE EDGE OF THE FOREST THAT INTERSECTED WITH THE LAST FIELDS OF OUR GREAT HORSES.  TRAINING FOR THE CALVARY MEANT A LIFE OF DILIGENCE AND COMPASSION FOR THE LARGE ANIMALS IN THEIR CARE.  EACH ONE GIVEN CARE OF TWO TO THREE HORSES, THESE SOLDIERS ATTENDED TO THEIR DUTIES WITH GREAT HONOR.  IT WAS TIME CONSUMING TO FEED. WASH. BRUSH. TEND TO THE HOOVES. WORK THROUGH THE RIGORS OF TRAINING AND GALLOPING AND CHARGING. AND WHEN COMPLETED WITH ONE STALLION, TO BEGIN WITH THE NEXT.  SO FROM DAYBREAK TO DAYS END, THE YOUNG SOLDIERS AND THEIR HORSES WERE ENGAGED.

IT WAS AFTER DARK ONE HOT SUMMER NIGHT THAT THE OLDEST OF US BOYS SPARKED THE IDEA. WHY NOT SNEAK INTO THE FIELD AND LURE AWAY A DOZEN OR SO OF THE HORSES? TAKE THEM THROUGH THE WOODS TO OUR FAVORITE SPOT? AT THAT MOMENT WE FIVE AGREED AND CAREFULLY WORKED OUR WAY OUT TO THE HORSES.  IT WAS AS EASY AS THAT. OR SO WE THOUGHT.  AGAIN UNKNOWN TO US WAS THE WATCHFUL EYE OF THE ADULTS THAT FOLLOWED OUR EVERY MOVE. HIDDEN.

IT WAS ONLY EIGHT HORSES. OR WAS IT TEN? THAT WE WERE ABLE TO POFFER AWAY QUIETLY.  UNTYING ONE FROM THE NEXT PROVED THE HARDEST TASKS BECAUSE ONE MOVE COULD SPARK A HORSE TO BAY UP AND ALERT ALL TO OUR AGENDA.

WE EACH RODE ONE HORSE. TWO OF US HAD THE TETHER OF ANOTHER HORSE IN OUR HAND. ANOTHER HORSE OR TWO THAT WERE LOOSENED FROM THE REST FOLLOWED IN CURIOSITY.  IT WAS NOT A LONG TRIP. WE EASILY MADE IT TO THE EDGE OF OUR CAMP WHERE WE. ALLOWED THE HORSES TO DRINK THEIR FILL OF THE WATER.  THE SIMPLE PLAN WAS TO KEEP THE HORSES HIDDEN HERE UNTIL DAWN WHEN THE SOLDIERS WOULD BE ALERTED TO THE MISSING ONES.  

IT DID NOT GO AS PLANNED.  THE CARE OF THE HORSES WAS TAKEN VERY SERIOUSLY.  IF ONE WAS INJURED IN THE FOLLY OF A YOUTHFUL PRANK IT COULD MEAN THAT THE HORSE WAS KILLED BY ITS CARETAKER. AND THAT POTENTIAL LOSS WAS UNTHINKABLE TO ALL WHO TRAINED AND SERVED FOR SO LONG.

IT SEEMS WATCHFUL EYES ALERTED THE SOLDIERS. THEY FOLLOWED FAR ENOUGH BEHIND US TO AVOID BEING SEEN OR HEARD.  WHEN WE WERE FINALLY RESTING AND NEARING SLEEP, THE SOLDIERS POUNCED.  IT WAS A BEATING UNMATCHED BY ANY PREVIOUS TUSSLE. THE TWENTY YEAR OLDS WERE TWICE OUR SIZE WITH EVEN MORE POWERFUL FISTS FROM THE DAYS AND MONTHS OF HARD TRAINING.

WELL BRUISED AND BLOODY. WE BOYS WERE RESCUED FROM NEAR DEATH BY THE WATCHFUL EYES. BUT NOT BEFORE BEING TROUNCED. SEVERLY.  WELL DESERVED? IT WAS NOT UNTIL THE END OF OUR PUNISHMENT THAT WE HAD THE LUXURY OF PONDERING THAT SWIFT AND FIERCE BEATING.

IT WAS A FULL MONTH OF SERVITUDE TO THE SOLDIERS THAT WE WERE SENTENCED. SIDE BY SIDE WASHING. FEEDING. TRAINING. AND FALLING INTO EXHAUSTION EACH NIGHT WITHOUT THE SOFT BLANKETS AND COOL BEDS OF OUR HOMES.  THE HOT AND DUSTY TENTS AND LIVING QUARTERS SMELLED OF BITTER SWEAT AND HORSE MANURE.

AND FROM THAT MOMENT ON MY OWN YOUTH WAS ENDED PERMANENTLY.

GRATITUDE TO OUR HOSTESS AND ALL WHOSE WATCHFUL EYES READ THESE WORDS.

I AM XERXES.