Battle of Arsuf

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The Battle of Arsuf was a decisive confront between Saracens and Crusaders that took place in September of 1191. During the Third Crusade, the Crusaders under King Richard were able to repulse an attack by the Saracens and gain the port city. Acre let them retain an advantage that was strategically important as Acre was the only port available to the Crusader army.

Eventually, King Richard led a counter attack himself, and let the city of Acre in the hands of his three most trusted men. He led the march just south of Acre to flank the Saracens. The battle was the first major defeat of the Saracens during the Crusades, boosting the morale of the European army.

Arrival of Robert de Sable

Robert, seeing that he was the last target, let Maria impersonate him so that he could gain time to reach Richard in Arsuf. Altaïr only knew of Robert's deception when he attended the funeral and was attacked by Maria, whom he defeated in battle and spared. Maria, hearing Altaïr's questions, informs him arrogantly that Robert had gone after Richard to convince him to join alliances against the Assassin Order.

When Altaïr heard this, he informed Malik of the impending threat on Masyaf and told him to find what he can about the artifact and it's connection to his targets before he rode to Arsuf.

The Battle

The Saracens have apparently set an ambush against the Crusaders as archers shot at the advancing Crusader Army. Several Crusader strongholds have been overrun by the Saracens. When Altaïr reached the outskirts of Arsuf, he battled his way through numerous Saracen soldiers, who have set ambushes against the assassin. Altair, however, took them down as he continued towards the Crusader Army.

The duel with Robert De Sable

Altaïr finally reached Richard, with Robert at his side. He was stopped by Templars and questioned by King Richard. When he explained his story, Robert countered, saying that they should not trust an assassin. Richard, however unsure of who spoke the truth lets them fight to see who God sides with.

Altaïr fought Robert's Templars beforehand and managed to kill all the knights nevertheless. Robert stepped forward to confront Altair himself. Robert attacked with speed and power, but Altaïr was more skilled, as Robert lost his life to the assassin. Before passing away, Robert explained his part of the story, and shocked Altaïr. He then had a small conversation with King Richard before finally leaving for Masyaf.

Aftermath

The battle of Arsuf was a valiant battle between the two opposing armies. The Crusaders where able to win the battle with the casualties amounting to 700 men. The Saracens however lost a hefty amount of men totaling to 7000 soldiers and 32 emir, although the true number is argued to be less.