Arman's Letter to Skender كتاب · المقتنيات

Dear Skender,

In recognition of your immeasurable generosity towards me, and of the bond we share, I am sending you a gift of extraordinary value. It may not look like it at first glance, but it is, in fact, the famous Durandal! Yes, Durandal – the sword owned by Emperor Charlemagne, and then by the legendary knight Roland.

I imagine you may call its authenticity into question. I did too. But the man who gave it to me is my vassal, a good Christian and a most loyal servant. He claims an angel appeared in his dream, and told him about the origin of the sword. The man owes me his life and I am certain he would never lie to me about such matters.

I hope my gift serves you well. It cuts through flesh with such ease that even a child could behead a Saracen or two with it. Many holy relics are hidden in its hilt: Saint Peter's tooth, the blood of Saint Basil, a hair of Saint Denis, and – last but not least – a piece of the Virgin Mary's garments. They will surely grant you good luck in battle, so do not hesitate to entrust your life to this precious, holy sword.

Your cousin,

Arman