Alexander Romance II - 15

Encounter Between Alexander and Darius

• Alexander the Great, despite his small stature, held a significant celestial destiny, which amazed the Persians.
• At a dinner hosted by Darius, Alexander concealed cups in his cloak, prompting curiosity and suspicion from the Persian king.

Alexander's Quick Thinking

• When questioned by Darius about the concealed cups, Alexander cleverly suggested that it was customary to give gifts, assuming Darius would do the same for his guests.
• This reasoning astonished the Persians and showcased Alexander's skill in manipulation and persuasion.

Recognition and Escape

• Paragages, a Persian prince and former ambassador, recognized Alexander based on facial features, despite his altered appearance.
• He revealed Alexander's identity to Darius while the king and his guests were intoxicated, creating a potential threat for Alexander.
• Sensing danger, Alexander discreetly left the banquet with the stolen golden goblets, escaping unnoticed.

Strategic Flight

• Alexander mounted his horse and evaded capture as Darius dispatched armed Persians after him.
• The pursuit occurred at night, leading to chaos among the pursuers; some fell over cliffs in the dark while others failed to keep pace.

Darius's Distress

• Darius experienced disturbance upon realizing Alexander's escape, further exacerbated by a troubling omen; the statue of King Xerxes, which he cherished, fell unexpectedly from the ceiling.