The Journey

From the southern reaches of the Arabian Peninsula, General Abraha and his formidable army march north toward the holy city of Mecca. Their demands are brutal: surrender the city, enslave its people, and tear down the Kaaba. Though many urge retreat to spare their lives, a handful of Meccan men stand their ground, ready to fight. Among them is Aws Ibn Jubair, a simple potter who turned his back on a life of wrongdoing to embrace honor and faith. When the enemy forces close in under cover of darkness, the hopelessly outnumbered defenders struggle to keep their spirits up. The night takes a surprising turn with the arrival of Zurara, a mercenary and former ally of Aws-a man who never gave up his godless, profit-driven ways. Though Zurara claims he’s only here for food and money, Aws’ story of redemption plants a seed of doubt in him. Maybe Mecca, with its faith and freedom, is worth fighting for after all. As the battle looms, the two estranged friends find common ground, standing together to defend the land and beliefs that offer them a chance at true absolution.