[WraithLord]

Regarding Markatas, in my tests they met the knights in one of two ways:
1. In front and to the side I put a decoy squad to take arrows (whatever monkey with shields will do). Then I put a squad of Marakata in middle to hold the charge of enemy knights. Last, heavy duty killers finish knights (elephants mainly, but blessed Nagas work, Bandars as well).

2. Unexpected and most fun. I put squads of Markata archers to the sides and rear. It so happens that sometimes knights choose to go after them instead of charging the middle squad. The archers stop the knights with little losses for a few turns. Until killer squad arrives.

Oh and one last note about this, It works with (or rather vs.) Vans as well. Its a nice, unexpected, way to hold melee units.

Not related - The Devala Celestial music sounds awesome. Thanks for the info.