Khagan of the Lands

By Veysel Arslan

The Great Khagan, Doran was ruling, living and fighting for decades until the Black Servant, Baksi the Unknown defeated a former Khan from the west and claimed rights for the Lands. Yet it was only the beginning. Cunning and ancient enemies, Black Lords and Kam Union are waiting for their turns to intervene.
With the help of his bound Khans, Doran is still trying to exorcise his rival, Baksi the Unknown while he is busy with taming his barren lands and fighting against the poverty. Can he manage to survive? A thrilling adventure and countless mind games are about to begin!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Veysel Arslan
• Release date: Aug 3, 2016
• ISBN: 9781370416080

Veysel Arslan

Veysel Arslan was born and grew up in Turkey. For five years he worked in various cities for public and private corporations after his graduation from Gazi University, Public Finance Dept. His first book, "Khagan of the Lands," is published at January, 2016.He is a Business Analyst for Mia Teknoloji Ltd./Turkey.He is also an advisor for Turkish start-up companies, former bodyguard, former goalkeeper and a former assistant coach. He attended a student exchange program in 2008 and studied at Baltimore, Maryland for six months.28 years old, happily married and hard working at all times.

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Khagan of

the Lands

Veysel Arslan

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The author have provided this book/e-book to you for your personal use only. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. Thank you for respecting the hard work of the author.

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, events and all incidents are the products of the author’s imagination. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

Cover & Map Design by Kiraz Sema Turhan

Copyright © 2016 by Veysel Arslan

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Dedicated to my wife, Gizem, who loves me more than anyone.

Map of the Lands

CHAPTER ONE

AFTER THE BATTLE OF GOLDEN STEPPE

Ring the bells, call the undertaker

Our mighty slained with the black dagger

Wolfs ran to his right just to help tiger

Swiftly running blood makes us drier

He was tired and shaking. He never heard the shouts of victory nor the prayers of the few remaining begging for a swift and merciful death. It was not the never-ending battles that he feared, but the burden of his clan and allies that believed in his dreams that bore down on his well-armored shoulders. Despite his concerns, he did not forget to clean his attacker. Dark, thick, fluid of dried and fresh blood mix was still dripping. No matter how many times or ways his enemies would attack and strike him, he would always show them respect. It was how his father taught to him to be.

His trusted advisor, Tayangu the Rewarded, came to him and whispered, Great Khagan, you should not be seen here, bleeding from a thousand wounds, and perhaps even poisoned! He looked around and called out, Child, fetch my oil, right now and be quick!

Khagan grew suddenly pale, unable to reply. His lips parted in an attempt to speak to his followers when he abruptly collapsed to the ground. Tayangu called out again, Quick now soldiers! Take your Khagan to his tent and bring me that damn oil immediately! His eyes fell on Baskak and he found himself saying the words, Send a cerci runner to Hatun! Let her know what is happening and tell her to prepare Tigin Dogen for the worst. He cannot be left vulnerable now.

The days passed rapidly, even while dealing with ugly tasks that must be carried out post battle. Brave soldiers buried deep down underground and the dying praying for mercy from Mother Earth. The ashes of the fallen enemies were quickly carried off by the harsh winds. Wounded souls either left the world quickly or rejoined their brothers in arms. The camp’s tents were filled with weapons including spears, mauls, swords, and axes, along with an assortment of all kinds of doom bringers strewn throughout the camp were pierced shields, torn armor, and crushed helmets.

Oh, my wolf! You have returned to us! Tengri has blessed us. We were driven nearly insane without you. Tayangu, come, quickly! The Great Khagan has awoken! Burcin shouted.

Tayangu the Rewarded heard the screams from the next tent. Barely clothed, he ran to answer the call.

May the sky bring heaven to us. The Great Khagan lives! Cursed maggots will die upon hearing this wonderful, glorious news. No poison can take our Khagan. Long live Doran. Long live Doran the Great Khagan! May your rule stretch to the farthest reaches of the blue sky.

Doran was still in an extremely weakened state. He heard the melodic sound of his wife’s voice first, which warmed his heart and provides the will to live. He still loves her no less now than from the first time he laid eyes on her. He signaled Baskak for his help. Experienced General of the Horde, Baskak, responded with joy and grabbed his Khagan’s hand in order to help him get up out of his bed. He slowly got up, ignoring the piercing pain that shot throughout his entire body and turned to Tayangu: How many, how many days has it been? Doran asked hoarsely.

Four days, Great Khagan, Tayangu answered gently, And my men?

Tayangu answered proudly, They are praying for you Great Khagan, they are all awaiting your presence.

Khagan slowly stood up and said to Baskak, Take me to them, Baskak. I want to see myself.

It is my great pleasure to follow this order. Come, Great Khagan, Baskak said.

It took Doran a couple of moments to be able to stand on his feet and put on his fur coat. The nights were cold at the steppes and the Khagan was still in agony. He pulled himself together and stepped out his tent to greet his loyal followers. Upon seeing the hundreds of worn but happy faces, he felt his strength return to him. After a moment of silence, Doran in a strong booming voice said:

My loyal people I know you are weary! Or enemies have attempted the forbidden. Tengri knows they tried but they have and were always destined to fail. They wanted to shame their father’s in the afterlife and indeed with our help they achieved this goal. Once again we are victorious. But remember, this battle is over but the war is not!

The crowd was excited and grateful to see their Khagan alive and with them. Snatched from the cold hands of death just a short while ago, to be in front of them full of life and speaking with such strength and power. Their remaining fears quickly melted away. While trying to continue his speech, Doran felt a bitter stirring in his brain. His lips paused for a moment. He was hearing screams but he was nowhere near the source of these chilling screams. It was echoing inside his head. Liar, Killer, False Prophet! Doran was shocked by these words and wondered where they emanated from.

What trickery is this? Doran yelled. Luckily the crowd was too busy reveling in their victory and rejoicing in the fact that their mighty leader was standing before them full of strength and inspiration that they couldn’t hear what he said. Only his wife Burcin and Tayangu heard him. Burcin thought nothing of it but Tayangu instinctively knew it black magic trying to take hold of his master. Nervously he said:

Great Khagan, let’s end the night’s festivities here for now. You still need to rest. Your people need you alive and well. I beg you to return to your bed and make yourself ready for a new day.

Still in shock, Doran agreed with his friend and slowly return his tent. As he left, he held his hand aloft and waved to the crowd. Great Khagan was troubled but he kept his troubles to himself as usual. The crowd was bade their leader a good-bye with shouts of joy and happiness, which revived their very fragile spirits. A Khagan’s responsibility helped kept him standing, however with the help of Baskak, he returned to his tent.

Tayangu! Do you know what that was? You think what it is? You think it is the pois…

Unable to finish his thoughts, Khagan collapsed onto his bed. Burcin rushed to comfort her husband, while Tayangu said, Let him sleep Hatun. He is strong but even the toughest need to rest. I promise you in the name of Tengri, I will heal him. No matter what it takes, I will cure him. The worst is over now. He will live to rule and bring our people even more prosperity and happiness.

Following four days of bloody battle and four days of uneasy waiting, the soldiers finally found some peace. After praying for their buried comrades, many drifted into a tranquil sleep. They are grateful to be alive, and of course sad because of their fallen brothers. The quiet dark stillness of the night engulfed them all. Only the crackling sound of torches was filled the air and the soft weeping of Burcin.

It seems unavoidable that most people prefer to rely on a single leader, like a father figure. In general it doesn’t matter how tall, how strong, or even if they are wise… They are always looking for a title. An honorable and committed man with a good heritage often helps to alleviate their fears. Only the wise truly understood that having a leader just make things easy for them. No need to think, no need to analyze making everything is easier for them, therefore life is less complicated. They just need to do as they are told, obeying without thinking and playing their roles as required. It is sometimes fit your needs in line with a leader’s goals. Only a strong of a ruler can meet everybody’s desires, because without the presence of a leader, people start to worry, get nervous, become suspicious and start fighting with one another.

It took only two days for the soldiers to argue amongst themselves, while waiting to see if Khagan would recover from his war wounds. Because of the multi-clan nature of Khagan’s army, in addition to its massive size one can easily understand that a period of two days is not that long to foster these types of self-warring conditions. Not only Tayangu, but also Baskak and the some other higher ranking officers, realized that the rising tensions between the groups were about to get worse. They prayed to Tengri both day and night to send Khagan back to them. Not just for the sake of his people but the effect his return would have on keeping the clans united under a man that everyone respected.

He killed my brother. How many more breathes he will take? How much more times will he consume? How can I tell Og mother that I fed this traitor? Let me kill him now, let me chop off his head, yelled out a captain from the Clan Dura in front of the prisoners of war.

Soldiers! Mind your own business. The prisoners are not your concern. If anyone harms just one of the prisoners they shall become one themselves. Return to your duties. Now! Baskak scolded him.

Khagan was awaken by the increasing number of sounds. He looked around to seek a helping hand. Tayangu! Burcin! he yelled. Tayangu answered quickly, Yes, Great Khagan. Tengri blessed us once again, this time with your return. How are you feeling?

I feel much better my faithful friend. Is this an argument I am hearing? Are they fighting with each other? Doran asked.

Tayangu takes a deep breath and answers, The soldiers are divided, My Khagan. Some of the southern clans want the prisoners to be killed. Baskak stopped them for now. They need to hear from you, your voice with sooth the discontent. Disappointed, Khagan ordered, Help me up then. Let’s see what exactly is the reason for this unnecessary chaos.

Khagan had regained much of his strength. His wounds were fully healed and his legs were once again able to support his mighty frame. He grabbed his staff and proceeded to the prisoner’s area. Baskak was there to prevent any undesirable situations. Baskak! I want details now. How many prisoners did we take in? Are any of them an important enough for me to talk to? Doran asked the general.

Baskak was happy to be of service. Great Khagan. I cannot tell how it does my heart good to see you. We have nearly three hundred men. Mostly from the Il-Bi Clan, Baskak answered.

Khagan understood the underlying issues and he responded, So that is why the Dura Clan wants them dead. They are religious and wants to stop black magic.

Upon remembering of the horrifying accusing voices he heard in his head not that long ago he asked, I believe that is what we all want, no? Baskak, do we have the means feed these prisoners without endangering our supplies?

He answered without hesitation, My Khagan, we have not more than fifteen days supply. We are especially running short on grain. Quickly calculating, Khagan replied, Hmmmm, so that is all. They are going to have to make a choice then.

With that said, Doran took a closer look at the prisoners. By merciful Tengri! Most of them are only boys! Baksi the Unknown sent them to their graves! Curse him and curse his black magic, Doran said and he turned to Baskak, Baskak! Divide them in groups based on their clans and tell them to choose a leader to speak with me.

Yes, Khagan. At once! Baskak replied.

Doran went back to his tent, still unable to believe how cruel his enemy had been to send mere boys to fight facing certain death. Most of his soldiers from the south, instantly began to argue over Khagan’s decision. They feared that the prisoners would be pardoned. An hour later, Baskak showed up at Khagan’s tent with four chained prisoners. Khagan ordered Baskak to set them free.

Come Sit down with me on my warm rug, share in all of the bounty of food you see before you. I am not like the other so-called Khans. Where were they while you were fighting? Where were they when you were dying? I was there, just like you. Therefor you deserve a share my food and warmth, Doran offered.

The prisoners were surprised by this unexpected display of generosity. Some of them began to eat timidly. Great Khagan, said one of them. If I may?

Yes, soldier. Go on. Tell me what is in your mind, Doran said, letting him.

They never asked us if we wanted this battle. Yet it is a man’s duty to obey orders. Your blade is welcome but, but I beg you to reconsider. You are ambitious but just. I and other men from the Clan Guruz would like to join with you. We would be loyal soldiers, he humbly suggested.

You are a brave soldier, boy. Indeed you are. I give you that and my army need brave men. Baskak! I promote this man to the rank of lieutenant. He and his men will join us for upcoming battles and you others. Have you made a decision? Doran asked.

The other prisoners from the Il-Kus Clan and Argus Batu Clan also agreed to follow and be loyal to the Great Khagan. Only one prisoner, a tall, slender older man from the Clan Il-Bi rejected the generous offer.

I am a cousin of Great Khan Baksi. He is mighty. He is magical and you cannot defeat him. He promised me that with your death I would be guaranteed to rise to the heavens. Therefore, I chose the blade. You and your delusions can go to hell, he spat out with hatred.

Shocked by the answer, Baskak turned to Doran. He was waiting for a sign to kill the prisoner but Doran remained silent. He was no longer listening. After a moment of silence, Tayangu entered the tent. He looked to Doran and sensed something was wrong. Tayangu told Baskak to take the uncooperative prisoner away. He thought that black magic had once again taken hold of Doran. Baskak removed the prisoner quickly.

Do not kill him Baskak, not until I have the chance to ask him some questions more and make sure he doesn’t escape, Tayangu said and quickly examined Khagan once Baskak dragged the prisoner away.

Great Khagan. Please tell me what is wrong? I can see your eyes have lost all their vibrancy. Your skin is cold and clammy to the touch. Did you hear that the voice again? Tayangu asked.

Once recollecting himself Khagan answered. Tayangu! My wise friend. Yes, it was the voice. When this prisoner started talking, I felt a familiar pain in my back. Exactly where a dagger hit its mark during the battle and their accursed poison was found its way into my blood. Even more disturbing is that the voice I heard, I swear to Tengri, is that of Baksi.

Tayangu was in shock as he tried to understand what his master just told him.

Great Khagan! How is this possible?! My heart feels a shadow falling over it. How could they have located the forbidden scrolls? How dare they! What this madness is! he declared, shaking his head not believing what he had just heard.

Feeling humiliated, Khagan replied. I do not know what to say my friend. I really do not know but I am afraid. My ancestors will curse me but I am truly frightened.

Tayangu tried to comfort him. Do not be ashamed Great Khagan. Our mauls are no match for black magic, I will find a cure. I swear I will but first we must prepare for the long journey home. This last victorious battle will be the last one before the spring. Their armies cannot be group until then. Rest now, My Khagan. I will look through my scrolls and learn if I can find the source of this black magic that haunts you, Tayangu said to him.

Thank you my friend. That will be best, Khagan said warmly. Knowing that Khagan had faith in Tayangu’s ability to find the answers, which brought him some measure of contentment.

After leaving the Khagan to rest, Tayangu met Baskak in the armory. He ordered the guards to leave, securing the area from unwanted ears. Baskak was an excellent soldier but he had no head for politics. It will not be easy to hear my friend, he said first. He took a deep breath and he continued:

Our Khagan has been poisoned. Even worse, he was poisoned contains black magic. His mind will slowly increasingly deteriorate. The infection has only started to take root and is not so strong but as time passes the hold on our master’s mind will grow stronger. It will control his thoughts. Finally, Baksi will speak through him from our Khagan’s lips.

Baskak was in a state of shock. Your words strike terror into my heart. Forgive me, I am not an educated man but how could this possibly happen? he asked in confusion mixed with fear.

It is very simple once the enchanted dagger finds its mark. Baksi has many sell swords. Either bought with money or manipulation. Black magic runs in Khagan’s veins now. We have to find a cure, Tayangu explained to him.

Still confused, Baskak shaking his head asked again: But how? I don’t understand any of this! Is the prisoner that is the cousin of Baksi’s responsible? I will make him talk!

Tayangu, knowledgeable on the powers of black magic and the potential dangers, warned him. Easy now Baskak! It will not be that simple. I am pretty sure he is a talented wielder of dark magic. We have find the right way first. I working on a plan. It will not be easy.

Baskak nodded his head. Very well Tayangu. Your wisdom, my hands, he agreed to not to do anything for the moment. They quickly and quietly left the tent to avoid being observed having a clandestine meeting

Tayangu ordered the captains to prepare for the journey home. The soldiers were elated by the news. They quickly dismantled the tents, packed their supplies and prepared the horses for travel. They placed their wounded into the carts and bandaged them up as best they could in the hopes that they would survive until they reached their friends and loved one. The six thousand men slowly began to get in formation as it was nearly morning.

Soldiers were waiting for the final order to continue. There were still some unanswered questions and rumblings through the forces and the soldiers were feeling uneasy about it.

After sun rise, Tayangu came before the assembled crowd to make a speech. He climbed upon an empty cart and raised his right hand to announce that he was about to speak.

Now behold the wrath of our Khagan, Tayangu stated forcefully and loud enough for all to hear. He continued by saying, Khagan has been merciful, he found a way for every sinner to make atonement and he forgave the repentant. Our Khagan embraced them as brothers, accepting them and protecting them! But some infidels, blinded by their false Khan, did not see the real truth no matter how hard he tried.

Soldiers listened silently. They were waiting for the order, an order that meant death for some and their revenge. Tayangu just stared at them all for a moment and then signaled for the group to come closer.

Tayangu pointed his finger to the Il-Bi prisoners, and said, Watch closely now and never forget! Soldiers! Execute the traitors!

Suddenly, one hundred and fifty bounded prisoner, were slaughtered one by one. Khagan’s soldiers were silent but the blood curdling screams of Il-Bi captured clan members filled the air. All prisoners from the Il-Bi Clan, slain brutally, without mercy, no matter how much they shook in fear, begged for their lives or cursed their executioner’s family.

Addressing the audience after the final kill, Tayangu again announced passionately.

We gave them a choice! The other clans swore allegiance to us. Our Khagan is merciful! They are our brothers now. They will fight with us, live with us and die with us but this schemers deserved none of it. This is what happens when you choose the blade. This is how you going to die when you choose not to accept Khagan’s mercy. Here, look at them. Learn your lesson. Know the power of your Khagan!

After bearing witnessing to the morning gore, soldiers were relieved and ready for their journey. The southern clans were particularly happy as they felt avenged. Their feelings of loyalty grew greater as their demands were respected and met. Tayangu knew that he had to extinguish the enemies of their faithful and hardworking armed forces. Khagan was right to trust his advisor’s sage wisdom. Tayangu had proven once more his value.

Baskak went to escort Doran. The Khagan was unusually calm. Baskak helped him to mount his horse while a servant helped Burcin to mount hers. The Great Khagan and Hatun looked majestic seated on their bay horses. They rode in front their people. Doran raised his mighty right hand and called out, To our lands!

Everyone was so overjoyed that they were able to forget their pains, losses and misery. They were all daydreaming about reuniting with their families and loved ones. Finally, months of fighting was over just in time before the harsh winter was expected to arrive. The only thing they long for was the warmth of their tents but they were willing to forgo this pleasure as it meant they were drawing closer to home. Victorious and proud, they were waiting for the times where they would regal eager listeners with their battle stories, how brave they were and how difficult and heartbreaking it all was.

In proper formation, they walked slowly but steadily to their destination. The road may be long, harsh and tiring but they never desist from it. The thought of reaching the warm hearth, kept them energetic.

Are you alright, Great Khagan? Tayangu asked him while they were riding in leading the masses. It was extremely cold and Khagan still looked quiet pale. Burcin tiredly rode alongside him.

I am alright, Tayangu. I hear that voice sometimes, but it is weak, Doran answered. The pain he was evident in his voice and the mystery of his ailment worried