Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Sir Walter surveyed the carnage before him, nothing but death and slaughter, as far as his eyes could see. The only sounds to be heard were the screams of the dying, and the screeching calls of the crows, feeding on the dead. He could not turn away, and his only thought, was the belief that the Church had lied to them. How could GOD demand this kind chaos, this mayhem, in His name? It was at this moment, Sir Walter of Devon shire, High guard of his lord, Prince Sedgwick, was shown a new vision. A vision far different from the one the Priests had once set for them. His new vision was one of Honor, one he would dedicate his life to. It was a simple vision, wander the lands, and help those in dire need. He knew if he did this, his reward would be great, both on earth and in Heaven. After packing the few supplies he could salvage, he mounted his steed and rode towards the setting sun.
Sir Walter opens his eyes to the sun cresting over the hills behind him, warming the blood stained armor on his back. He realizes in his exhaustion, he has slept thru the night, as his faithful steed carried him toward his new life. Soon he can see what he believes is a mirage, but is pleasantly surprised to find a beautiful oasis before him. He leads his horse toward the cool water flowing into a small pool. While his steed drinks, Walter strips his armor and padding, down to his small clothes. As he washes the dirt and gore from his body, it feels as if he was also washing his sins from his Soul. When he finished bathing, he takes the time to care for his equipment and steed. Finding some shade beneath a palm, he spread his cloak so he could lie upon it and rest.
He can hear the noise of a caravan approaching the oasis. Though the caravan is a small one, it is well provisioned. He watches as the merchant's slaves and laborers erect the tents and set up camp. While this is going on, Sir Walter dons his clothes and armor. As he cinch's his sword belt about his waist, he can see a richly dressed man walk towards the spring that feeds the oasis. It is then that he notice's movement from the tall brush that grows around the spring, and move quietly towards it. As the rich merchant spreads his prayer rug upon the ground, Sir Walter can see the three brigands getting ready to attack. Just before they can rush the unarmed merchant, Sir Walter draws his sword and with a fierce battle cry, he attacks. The savage cry warns the merchant and while Sir Walter is engaged with two of the brigands, the merchant pulls a long dagger from his robes and deftly dispatches the third. Because of the surprise of his attack, Sir Walter easily slays the assassins.
When He is sure that the danger has past, he turns to see a quizzical but amused look on the merchant's face. The merchant bows and says Allah indeed works in mysterious ways. He has sent an infidel to save me."
"Please tell me your name, so I can properly thank you." He says that he is a simple pilgrim and his name is Walter. The merchant thanks him and gives praise to Allah for watching over him, then introduces himself as Mukh Momahd. He then kneels and performs his prayers and as he rises, he invites his guest to his tents to dine and relax.
When they arrive at the camp, there is a great commotion as all wishes to hear what has transpired. Mukh raises his hand and says that it will wait till he has properly seen to his guest comforts. As they enter the cool interior of the tent, Walter is astonished to see a beautiful woman moving about inside, watching over the servants preparing the low table for the feast to come. Mukh see the expression on Walters's face and smiles as he introduces Walter to his daughter. "This, my friend, is my daughter Myrianna." Walter can see lovely brown eyes regarding him above the silk veil covering her face. As her father recounts the skirmish, Walter catches Myrianna regarding him with a renewed respect. When she notices him watching her, she demurely lowers her eyes.
