How did Ka’iana show King Kahekilli that he is at the top of his game in Chief of War? Details explored

In Chief of War, Kaʻiana was a high-ranking noble and prominent Hawaiian warrior in the late 18th century. He is portrayed as someone with sound knowledge of Western weaponry post his foreign travels. This is why he was once a valuable asset to King Kamehameha's military. He served as a war chief initially to unify the islands. But, during the war of Nuʻuanu, Ka'iana switched sides and joined forces with Kalanikūpule, the ruler of Oʻahu, against Kamehameha. Since then, he has been considered a traitor.

In the Chief of War, when he arrives at the Council of War, he is teased with spears thrown by other warriors. Even their general didn't stop them from humiliating Ka'iana. But he approached the King, saving himself from the spears like a skilful warrior, using this humiliation as an opportunity to show the king how he is at the top of his game already.

Here is how it is evident in the Chief of War that Ka'iana is one of the most skilful and unpredictable warriors of all

The opening scene of the show portrays Ka'iana head-to-head with the shark, proving his extraordinary strength and intellect when it comes to warfare. He has the calmness and brilliance to perform even in adverse conditions, a great quality. Kaʻiana is seen subduing a shark bare-handed—an unforgettable demonstration of fearlessness and physical prowess. It immediately establishes him as a figure rooted in warrior ethos and the cultural ritual of Hawai'i.

Then comes the point when he reaches the Council of War and is humiliated by other warriors for being a traitor to his previous king. As mentioned, he uses the speeding spears to showcase his other warrior skill and reach the king without a scratch.

Episode 1 also depicts him effortlessly subduing a junior warrior, Nui, by breaking his arm without hesitation—an early but clear signal to Kahekilli of his formidable strength and dominance. This convinced Kahekili that Ka'iana is the best warrior among all, the most skilful one.

Here is how King Kahekili successfully manipulates Ka'iana in his favour in Chief of War

Convinced by his extraordinary skills as the Chief of War and patience amidst adverse conditions, Kahekili is already in awe of Ka'iana's strength and mind alike. Kahekili's inviting Ka'iana back to his hometown was strategic and politically charged. The king wanted Ka'iana to be his chief in the war against O'ahu, the most powerful island and a major obstacle in the king's way to make Maui great.

Upon meeting him privately, King Kahekili emphasises their familial bond to manipulate Kaʻiana in his favour. He recounts how Kaʻiana’s father was once his closest ally, appealing to both duty and heritage.

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Kahekili also narrated an ancient prophecy when the seers had predicted Maui's fall to O'ahu unless Ka'iana doesn't returned as a leader of the military. Therefore, his participation in the war is destined and will be crucial to fulfilling the prophecy.

And this was not it, to put more emotional weight to his request, he took Ka'iana to a shrine where his father's bones were used in sacrificial rituals by O'ahu's priests. This imagery sparks pain and duty, compelling Kaʻiana to act as the Chief of War. The king made her request sound so selfless and for the people of the island that Ka'iana fell for it.

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