 In 1021 / 22 , however , Xiphias , now posted at Caesarea as strategos of the Anatolic Theme , fell out with Basil II because he was not allowed to accompany the Emperor on his campaign against the Kingdom of Georgia . Xiphias allied himself against the Emperor with the magnate Nikephoros Phokas Barytrachelos , whose father had risen in revolt in the early years of Basil II 's reign . The two men planned to kill Basil , and that one of them should take his place ; who it would be remained undecided , but it was mainly Phokas ' name and followers that lent the conspiracy weight . The conspiracy was apparently also known and supported by King George I of Georgia , who thus hoped to force Basil to abandon his invasion . When the emperor learned of the plot , however , he did not turn back , but instead sent letters to the two rebel leaders separately , aiming to sow distrust between them . Basil 's ploy bore fruit very soon , for on 15 August 1022 , Xiphias assassinated Phokas . The latter 's supporters dispersed , and the nascent rebellion collapsed . Xiphias was then forced to surrender to the Emperor 's envoy , Theophylact Dalassenos , who became the new strategos of the Anatolics . 
