Churash’s saddle was of deep black leather inlaid with mother-of-pearl and trimmed with silver. The trappings on his neck, mane, body, and legs bore so much silver that a less valiant steed might have protested such a load. Churash wore his ornamentation proudly, as though knowing he’d been born for such finery.
Beside the prince, Umar bin Ibrahim was scarcely less resplendent in his courtly robes of brilliant white and his white silk turban. His white beard almost vanished against the white of his robes, but the black mare he rode was a sharp contrast to his own outfit and Prince Ahmad’s white charger.
Tabib abu Saar, special envoy from King Basir, was also along on the journey, returning to his home court upon the successful completion of his mission. He had two retainers of his own an
