1
Nadan formed a plan to remove Ahiqar completely.
2
He imitated Ahiqar's handwriting and wrote letters in Ahiqar's name to foreign rulers hostile to Assyria, promising to deliver the kingdom without battle.
3
He also forged a royal command addressed to Ahiqar, directing him to assemble forces and array them as though for war when the king approached.
4
Ahiqar obeyed the false royal order because the handwriting and seal appeared trustworthy.
5
Nadan then showed the treasonous letters to Esarhaddon and brought the king to witness Ahiqar's forces drawn up in battle order.