Chapter 40: Charge!
Chapter 40: Charge!
A week later, in the vast sea of sand, a troop of cavalry advanced slowly under the scorching sun. In just a few short days, Lothar’s skin had visibly tanned by a shade. If he wore a headscarf and face covering, he was almost indistinguishable from a native Arab or Kurd.
During this time, they had encountered numerous dangers. The most perilous was a run-in with Saladin’s trusted confidant and nephew, Sa’d al-Din, currently serving as the Governor of Syria, and his cavalry troop. Fortunately, Abdullah’s quick wits had successfully bluffed their way through.
Lothar took out his waterskin, sipped a small mouthful, and asked the Kurdish leader beside him, "Where are we now? Have we entered Sasanian territory?"
Abdullah was somewhat puzzled as to how this young foreigner before him could endure the desert’s drought and scorching heat so well. "What territory? In this place, the lords and chieftains loyal to Saladin and the Sasanian King are like tumbleweeds in the desert, tumbling in whichever way the wind blows."
"I understand. So, if we select some lords who are firmly allied with the Sasanian King, or even openly oppose and resist Saladin, the effect will be best?" Lothar mused aloud. He had to play this act perfectly; he couldn’t guarantee the Sasanian King would follow his script.
"Correct. I know of an oasis not far from here. It is the territory of Kaukab. He was once a vassal loyal to King Nur al-Din. After Saladin usurped the throne, he defected to the Sasanian King and has openly provoked Saladin from there multiple times."
Lothar was somewhat puzzled. "Doesn’t that sound like they should be in the same camp as you?"
A trace of ferocity surfaced on Abdullah’s face. "When Saladin led his army into Syria back then, we appealed to him for aid. He didn’t send a single soldier! Such a treacherous villain dares to provoke Saladin under the banner of the late King? This is an insult to us!"
Lothar nodded, settling on this lucky candidate. "Then we’ll choose them. This Kaukab, does he reside in that oasis you mentioned?"
Abdullah nodded. "Of course. That is his main base. All chieftains and tribes subordinate to him must present tribute and offer cattle and sheep there on time."