Futuhusham_-_The_Islamic_Conquest_of_Syria_-_Al_Waqidi

Part 1: Damascus
Romans. Calius realised from his manner that he was the commander of the Islamic
army. He saw that Khalid • had seen all his signs of leadership and the cross above
his head and was therefore heading his way, so he backed away. Khalid •
attempted to reach him, but some Romans came to block him. They threatened him
and fired arrows, but he was relentless in his advance. He rode his horse which was
like lightning flashing in all directions. He continued like this until he killed ten
Romans and then shouted, "Is there any challenger?" but none responded.
He shouted, "Then come in pairs against me!" but none came. He then challenged
four and increased his challenge right up to ten, but none even answered him, so he
said, "Be destroyed! I am but one man alone on a horse. Every soldier in my army is
a warrior equal to me."
15) The Roman generals argue
Some people understood the challenge, while others did not. Uriel went to Calius and
said, "Caesar has appointed you commander of the army to fight the 'Arabs. The
protection of the citizens and the city is your responsibility."
Calius : Your responsibilty is more than mine because you were the governor before
me. Do not delude yourself into thinking that I cannot withdraw without Caesar's
order. Why do you not go and fight the' Arabs?
Uriel ; We have an agreement that one day you will fight and one day I will fight.
Today you go.
Calius ; I have already said that you came to this city before me so you go first. I will
fight tomorrow.
The argument became personal and protracted so the people wished to draw lots to
decide which of the two should go out to fight the' Arabs, but then Calius said, "No,
it is better that we make a united attack so that they stay in awe of us -.We should not
be divided." Uriel responded, "I do not care, do as you please." Calius then thought
that if Heraclius found out about these things, he could be expelled from the court
and even executed. So he changed his mind and insisted on a lottery. His name was
drawn, so Uriel said, "Display such bravery on the battlefield which the 'Arab
leaders displayed. When it is my turn, they will see which of us is braver."
Calius donned his armour, mounted his horse and said to his men, "Focus all your
attention and strength on me. If I am overpowered then come immediately to my aid
and save me."
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