We can try anything. It would be a bold stroke. Unexpected. I dont think a move that way will complicate the eastern situation. Its winding down there. I had Karim take over. Hell subdue the Throyens. They were ready to talk when I left. A few weeks of Karims attentions and theyll accept any terms. And El-Kader has shattered the last resistance at the south end of the littoral. El Nadim will hold Sebil el Selib. With Yousif gone there will be no trouble out of el Aswad.

The Disciple sighed. Finally. After all those years. Why did Yousif run, Nassef?

That was the critical question. I wish I knew. It keeps me wondering what he has up his sleeve. Yes. Well try for Al Rhemish. Its worth a try even if it doesnt work. Itll be a spoiling raid if nothing else. Yousif will be more dangerous there than he was at el Aswad, where his resources were limited.

El Murid still carried Yousifs taunting note. He studied it for the hundredth time, fixed though every word was in his memory.

My dear Micah, he read aloud, Circumstances compel me to be away from my home temporarily. I beg to leave it in your curatorship, knowing you will attend it carefully in my absence. Do feel free to enjoy its luxuries during your stay. May you anticipate all your tomorrows with as much eagerness as I anticipate mine.

Your Obedient Servant, Yousif Allaf Sayed, Wahlig of el Aswad.

Still a mystery to me, Nassef said.

Hes mocking us, Nassef. Hes telling us he knows a secret.

Or Radetic wants us to think he does.

Radetic?

The foreigner must have composed that. Yousif isnt that subtle. It smells like a sneaky bluff.

Maybe.

Lets not play his game. Forget the message. In Al Rhemish he can whisper the words of the Evil One directly into the Kings ear. He can gather the Royalist strength against us.

Yes. Of course. We must do as the angel says, and strike hard, now, at the very nest of the vipers.

Whatever his reasons, Lord, I think Yousif made a mistake. Without him to block the road I dont think the Royalists can stop us. As long as we dont meet them head-on, in a test of strength. They retain the advantages they had at Wadi el Kuf.

Gather the rest of the Invincibles. This year in Al Rhemish for Disharhun.

It will be a delight, Lord. Ill begin now. Give my love to Meryem and the children.

El Murid sat silently and alone till long after Nassefs departure. The critical hour was at hand. He had to wrest the most from it. His angel had suggested that the resolution of many troubles lay in the taking of Al Rhemish. And he had begun to get a glimmering of what could be done.

Hadj.

My Lord?

Find Mowaffak Hali. Bring him to me.

Yes, my Lord.