#gotarzes

One of the bonus sketches from manga Vol. 21. Looks like there's another one too but I haven't managed to find a full image of it yet.

I really like this one, not only because I'm pleased to see Hilmes feature but because of the composition. The shadowy, mad-looking Gotarzes, whose mind was addled by the influence of sorcery. Osroes, whose eyes betray the inhuman decision he made about the child he raised as his son and pretended to love. Andragoras, with darkened eyes, looming over Hilmes in the foreground. Of them all, Hilmes is the only one whose eyes are clearly visible/drawn normally, and even then it feels symbolic that his right eye is partially obscured on his burned side.

'After King Gotarzes ascended the throne, he proved himself to be a capable and wise ruler, and also accomplished much. He repelled enemy invasions four times, renovated streets and water conduits, expanded the schools established by the monarchy, protected the study of the arts, and promoted people of the highest standard to serve as judges and regional governors. He demoted overambitious feudal lords*, released innocent people from prison, and provided the populace with food and medicine during times of disaster.

A time came when the great king who was praised by all had grown old. Instead of heeding the advice of trusted generals and officials, he began to listen to the suggestions of prophets and sorcerors of unknown character. Because these people recovered important objects that had gone missing for him, and because they predicted that an apparently unfavourable war would have the opportunity to be won, the facts appeared to confirm their claims. In any case, the real power over the country's military and political affairs was gradually stripped from the hands of those who took the work seriously. A general who gave counsel was convicted and executed for angering the king. From then on, none dared to speak out, and furthermore, they left the palace.’ (Book 7, Chapter 4, Part iii)

* shahrdaran