The Nāṣirī Generations 20.3

20.3

Sultan Yaminu-d daula Bahram Shah, when he heard of these preparations, assembled the troops of Ghazni and Hindustan and passing through Garmsir by way of Rukhaj and Takinabad, he came to Zamin-dawar. When 'Alau-d din came up with his army, Bahram Shah sent messengers to him, saying, "Go back to Ghor, and stay in the states of your forefathers; you have not the strength to resist my army, for I have brought elephants with me." When the envoys delivered this message, 'Alau-d din replied, "If you have brought elephants (pil) I have brought the Kharmils,—besides, you mistake, for you have slain my brothers, whilst I have killed no one belonging to you. Have you not heard what the Almighty says? 'Whosoever is slain unjustly we have given his heir power (to demand satisfaction); and let him not exceed bounds in putting to death, for he is protected.'" When the messengers returned, both armies made ready for battle. Sultan 'Alau-d din called for his two champions, named Kharmil, who were the heads of the army and the renowned heroes of Ghor. One of these was Kharmil Sam Husain, father of Malik Nasiru-d din Husain; the other was Kharmil Sam Banji. Both of these men were famous for courage. 'Alau-d din sent for them and said, "Bahram Shah has sent to say that he has brought elephants, and I have answered that I have brought the Kharmils. You must each take care to bring an elephant to the ground to-day." They bowed and retired.