The Normans held an absolute combat advantage, both on land and at sea.
The villages Faruk controlled fell quickly, leaving him holding just one coastal fortress.
The fortress was quite sturdy and strategically located. Robert decided to starve its defenders into submission, so after ordering his Knights to surround it, he departed.
However, just three days after this decision was made, Rufus unexpectedly took the fortress.
Rufus, acting on his own authority, dragged the Heretics from a nearby village before the fortress. He massacred them in full view of the defenders, then used a catapult to launch their dismembered limbs into the fortress.
He then challenged Faruk to a duel and relentlessly provoked him.
Faruk eventually accepted the challenge, but on the condition that if he lost, Rufus would spare his soldiers.
Rufus agreed.
After a fierce struggle, Rufus was victorious, striking Faruk from his horse.
