Cyrus, along with a small group of soldiers, venture beyond the borders of Anshan into other regions of the Median empire—their mission is to forge alliances with the tribes residing in the surrounding territories.
A soldier rides up to Cyrus. “Which tribe are we meeting with first, Sir?”
“We are going to the Northeast to meet with the Sagartii.”
“Aren’t they just herdsman?”
“Yes they are mainly nomadic, but a branch of the Median royal family directly rules them. If we can persuade them, it would greatly increase our numbers right away.”
They press on until they finally reach the outskirts of the tribal camp. Passing by grazing cattle, they make their way toward the heart of the settlement, where Cyrus dismounts his horse and approaches the gathered herdsman.
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“Greetings Sagartians, I am Cyrus, son of Cambyses, Prince of Anshan.”
A herdsman steps forward. “Anshan? What brings you from all the way south, Prince?”
“My men and I are visiting all the tribes of the Median Empire to see how things are going. If enough support has been given and if there is anything that the Empire can do to improve trade among our clans.”
“It’s been many moons since we last had a check-in. They usually only bring a mere scout here, not a prince from another kingdom?”
Cyrus carefully evaluates his next words, “This time is more important, as we want to bridge the gap across these lands and make trade much easier.”
The herdsman scoffs, “Trade? There is no trade with you royals, they come and take whenever they please. I don’t know how it is in the south but here we are given scraps for our wares.”
Cyrus gets a bit closer, and lowers his tone, “Then it seems we have something in common.”
The man is baffled as Cyrus continues. “Lately we’ve heard that Astyages has been causing a bit of trouble with tribal leaders. Punishing them over minor discrepancies.”
“Not just that, his men have been using our land without notice. Their soldiers ruined good soil.” The man protests.
“Your tribe has direct ties with the royal family, yes?”
“Yes, every four seasons we have a meeting with the king and his noblemen”
Cyrus ponders, “We thought it would be best if all the tribes came together to share our grievances about Astyages and present them to the king. Perhaps you would be interested.”
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The herdsman and his companions huddle together, engaging in soft murmurs and deliberations amongst themselves. “Cyrus, daughter of Princess Mandane huh? It would be great to have the grandson of the king himself on our side.”
Cyrus tilts his head down with a slight nod, “Fantastic, may we find a place inside and discuss this further?”
The nomads invite Cyrus and his men into a larger tent.
After cementing their bond with the Sagartians, they set their sights on the next tribes in line. The Derusiaei, Mardi, and Dai, with their diverse strengths and loyalties, pledged their allegiance to Cyrus without reluctance. However, amidst their progress, there were a few who hesitated or clung to their fears of Astyages' wrath, refusing to join the growing rebellion. Despite his best efforts, recruiting the elusive Panthialaei, Germanii, and Dropici proved to be a fruitless endeavor. Nevertheless, Cyrus knew that one crucial tribe still lay ahead, holding the key to the success of their uprising. He embarks on a perilous journey to the tribe of the Pasargadae, the domain of the chief tribe where the influential Achaemenid, the revered royal house of Persia, resides. The stakes were high, for the support of this powerful house could sway the other significant Persian tribes, the Maraphii and Maspii, to stand beside them in defiance.
As they approach the tribal camp of Pasargadae, guarded by imposing towers and vigilant soldiers, Cyrus and his companions are met with a commanding presence. They are ordered to halt, and Cyrus speaks with authority, requesting an audience with the Achaemenidae. He proclaims his title with unwavering confidence, Cyrus is then granted passage into the heart of the tribal stronghold.
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“The Prince of Anshan, the first time you have stepped in these walls I believe?” one of the royals states.
“Yes, I have been told about this house by my father many times, now that I am a general, I thought I would have a visit” Cyrus shares.
The chief speaks, “What favors do you have for us?”
Cyrus casually responds, “Whatever do you mean?”
The chief takes a sip of tea. “You may be the grandson of Astyages, but he does not see you as such. Anshan was a way to keep you away from the main kingdom as well as to keep your father’s power in check. So why else would you be here?”
Cyrus takes a bite of some bread. “As you can see, our kingdom hasn’t been the only land whose power has been limited.”
The men begin to whisper around, as the chief silences them. “You’ve heard the rumors.”
“I’ve heard and seen the truth.” Cyrus explains, “I have visited a few of the other tribes, they shared the reprimands that have been put on them and the ridiculous demands disposed on their people.”
“Astyages and his Magi have gone mad. Believing dreams as some sort of prophecy.” A nobleman spouts.
The chief continues, “What are you proposing?”
Cyrus sits up straight as he lowers his cup. “The tribes of Sagartians, Derusiaei, Mardi, and Dai have all allied with us to show the Median Empire that we no longer wish to be treated with disrespect.”
The chief and men all begin to chatter. “Are you saying we betray the king?”
“I’m saying that we need a new system of power” Cyrus continues.
“There are already small factions within the Median army that have voiced their opinions against the king. As well as some generals who have blatantly disobeyed his orders.” one man shares.
The chief asks him, “With this new power shift, who will lead? You?”
Cyrus stands up, “Have you forgotten that I am related to the royal throne? I am a direct descendant of Teispes. However, my father, Cambyses will take reign, and I will lead the charge.”
“He is right, having someone of Achaemenian decent will prove his legitimacy with the Persian people.” A nobleman states.
The chief speaks, “There will be a meeting of the high council of all tribal leaders with Astyages in a month. We will make sure that you and your father are present.”
“Thank you for your time” Cyrus states as he leaves the camp back to Anshan.