Freed at last, they galloped toward a nearby stream. Just as they were about to reach it, Mohammed raised the war bugle to his lips and blew the call to battle.
Only five mares stopped. Wheeling about, they ran to their master. Mohammed chose those five to mother the breed.
One may or may not believe the old story of the Al Khamsa ("The Five") mares, yet the tale bears dramatic witness to the Arabian horse's powerful bond with man. So valuable and beloved were these creatures, that mares and foals often shared the tents of their nomadic Bedouin owners and their families. Often, they were not for sale at any price.
Arabian horses were first and foremost war horses. Their courage, stamina, speed, and stength could determine whether a battle was won or lost; whether their riders lived or died. Loyalty and bravery were imperative . . .
