1212 and the forces of Christendom are on the march again. Twenty-five years ago, the Christian army lay slaughtered on the desolate plain of Hattin, slaughtered by Mighty Saladin, ruler of the Moslem world. The Holy Land seemed lost. The Pope has called for crusade. Many take the cross for pilgrimage and battle. Among them is Otto, a young noble in search of his vanished Hospitaller Knight Father. And tens of thousands of children, pledged to recapture Jerusalem. Nothing can prepare them for what they will face. Treachery, horror, violence and dread beset the pilgrims' journey. There are allies at hand but they may not be enough. For the way ahead is perilous and some will not survive.