The Saladin has taken control over the 3 resource piles on this land. You need to take over these areas so you have the resources to build a strong army and defeat the Saladin. Local villagers have built a strong fortification to stop the Saladin from gaining access to the lands. If you provide the villagers with 250 stone, 250 iron and 100 pitch they will allow you to destroy the walls and mount an attack on the Saladin. They just ask you get it right and wipe out the enemy! Be aware of rogue warriors who want to try their hand at wiping you out themselves.
It is an interesting but long-lasting scenario that requires a lot of staying power and patience ... concerning both defense and offensive. Highly recommendable and not too hard!