You have a powerful army, Kublai, but the best force is one you do not have to use.

— Conn Iggulden

Kublai went on as if he had not spoken.“Before you all, in the lands of my enemies, I declare myself great khan of the nation, of the khanates under my brothers, Hulegu and Arik-Boke, of the Chagatai khanate and all others. I declare myself great khan of the Chin lands and the Sung. I have spoken and my word is iron!

— Conn Iggulden

My word is iron,' Kublai said to the guards, as Meng Guang was led away. 'Your people will come to know this, in time.

— Conn Iggulden