In front of the (still unfinished) Gate of All Nations, the commanders and elites of the Persian army were lined up and geared for war. It was a glorious sight, but not an uncommon one. This time around, however, they have been given the signal to prepare for some time, rather than hastily grouping in response to a Bactrian raid. For many of the soldiers who just returned from the Bactrian front, they did not require much preparation, if any. In fact, the army would have been on the march already had they been told who their new enemy was. Even though peace has just been concluded with the Bactrians to the north, who knew what they were up to? News of the war in the west has also made many restless and uneasy. This question was answered when King Darius emerged and addressed his army.
I understand that many of you are wondering why you, the proud soldiers of Persia, have been gathered here today. In due time, I will answer your concerns and questions. First, however, I want to tell you all a short story, one about Persia. Long ago, we were a small nation that struggled to survive. We existed at the whim of the Bactrians. We were a lost and confused lot, with little hope for our future. Just when it appeared we would vanish from this land like the numerous nations before us, something happened that changed our fate forever. Or more specifically, someone. Zoroaster, the holy prophet, arrived in our land and brought with him the knowledge/beliefs that saved us. With the guidance of Ahura Mazda, the same small and unimportant kingdom in the past is now the largest of all known kingdoms! My soldiers, Ahura Mazda has granted us all the power of Charita, the ability to improve our way of living and the living conditions of others. The Bactrians in the past have abused this power for their own greediness, but we have made them pay for their errors. As this is happening, however, the Assyrians to our west are repeating the same evil as that of the Bactrians of the past. Ahura Mazda have given us the power to help others as well as ourselves, and we will use his gift to the fullest. The Sumers, our long time friend, trade partner and also believer of Ahura Mazda, is currently under attack from the Assyrians. It is to this end that I request all of you, the protectors of Persia, enforcers of Ahura Mazda and the Spenta Mainyu (Holy Spirit), to raise your swords and spears once again. Together we will protect Sumer and send the wrong do-ers to the Chinvat Peretum (Path to Judgement), where Ahura Mazda will judge their crimes!
OOC: Do i still have to answer your diplo, Sheep?
