"It's time to perform the Leap of Faith." Al Mualim announced to his novices.
A smile crept across Altair's face. He has seen the others perform it before and he couldn't wait to get to do it himself. It's a test of an assassin's faith in his own skills and a symbol of their dedication to the creed.
Al Mualim called each assassin up two at a time. With each name called, Altair grew more excited. He glanced over at his friend Malik and was surprised to see him tense up with each calling. Altair asked "Are you okay?"
Malik tried to hide his fear but his eyes betrayed him when he turned his attention toward Altair. Before he could reply Al Mualim called "Altair Ibn-La'Ahad. Malik Al-Syaf. You two are next."
They looked around to find they were the last ones to go as they approached the edge. Malik stopped before stepping onto the platform and said to Altair, his eyes staring at it with fear "I- I can't do it. I..."
His voice trailed off as Altair took hold of Malik's shaking hand and tilted Maliks chin up so he could look into Altair's golden eyes "Yes you can. We'll jump together. This isn't just a leap to become assassins. This is an obstacle of faith for us both." Altair pulled Malik closer and kissed him on the lips, breathing into his ear "Have faith in me. Have faith in us."
Malik breathed "Okay." His voice still shook but this time it wasn't because he was afraid but because Altair was so close to him.
Malik faced the edge with Altair by his side. His grip on Altair's hand tightened. There fingers intertwining.
With one look at the other and a nod from Altair, they both leaped from the platform and soared into the air before diving into a massive pile of hay below. A single phrase passed between them with no need for spoken words but understood just the same.
"I love you."