Tales of the Crusaders: The Talisman; Volume III

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During a truce in the third Crusade, Sir Kenneth encounters a Saracen Emir while traveling to Syria. They ride together to the cave of the hermit Theodoric of Engaddi, who is in contact with the pope. The hermit provides them with refreshments and, after the Emir falls asleep, takes Sir Kenneth to a chapel where he sees the Lady Edith, the object of his affection. Meanwhile, King Richard Coeur de Lion falls ill with fever in his tent at Ascalon. A Moorish physician, who had previously healed Sir Kenneth's squire, offers to treat the king. After a consultation, Richard takes a potion from the physician and falls asleep, recovering from his illness. Conrade of Montserrat plots to undermine Richard's reputation, encouraging Leopold of Austria to display his banner alongside England's in the camp. Upon waking, Richard angrily confronts this act. Philip of France advises a council meeting, and Sir Kenneth is tasked with guarding the English standard overnight. However, he is distracted by a message from Lady Edith and, in his absence, the banner is stolen, and his dog is injured. Overcome with guilt, Sir Kenneth learns of Saladin's desire to marry Lady Edith and contemplates seeking the Saracen's protection. Ultimately, he decides to face Richard but is sentenced to death despite pleas for mercy. The hermit and physician intervene, leading to a reprieve. Disguised as a Nubian slave, Sir Kenneth later saves Richard from an assassin