Chapter 245: Chapter 245: We are being mocked

Caliph Harun al-Mu'tasim stepped past the high gates of the capital, leaving the cool, shaded courtyards of his palace for the unforgiving heat of the desert afternoon.

He adjusted his silk robes against the dry wind and cast a brief glance back at the safety of the city walls. Beside him walked General Khalid, flanked by a host of provincial emirs and seasoned palace guards.

They had been asked to leave the comfort of their council chambers by Vanguard Commander Bjorn. The northerner led a detachment of five hundred mercenaries who now stood in quiet formation on the dunes.