Ch.7
To Acre
Running all his might, Altair did all he could to lose the soldiers chasing him. Sliding and turning at a corner he grabbed on to a near poll and jumped up landing on the roof. Hearing the footsteps of the guards Altair scanned and saw a hiding spot. A small tent that offered safe refuge. For only a couple of seconds. Rushing to it, he jumped to the other ceiling and hissed in pain from the wound of his last battle.
Jumping in like if diving to the sea, Altair entered safely in the tent. Pressing his body to the wood he sat in silence, catching his breath but very slow and low as possible. Echoes of the soldiers got near and paused right behind him. Getting his blade on his hand Altair prepared himself to fight, if needed.
"Where did he go?" One soldier screamed across the other side.
"I don't know! Wait! I think I saw something! Let's go!" Another yelled.
In a few seconds foots steps faded away. Hissing and grunting Altair kicked the wood with anger. It was a trick. Robert de Sable wasn't in the funeral, but Maria. He could have almost killed her. Checking himself for any further injuries, he had a side cut. Nothing serious, but it needs attention. Maybe Azeneth will rush to aide him like she once did before.
Her soft hands, delicate and strong. One slight touch from them is enough to send his wildest thoughts to his head and the need to make her his again and again. Making her beg and scream for him.
Last night was the most incredible sex he had. Never in his life had a woman take control. Most woman would let him do everything because they felt intimidated by him and sex. But not her. Not Azeneth. She rode him like a skilled soldier on a horse charging all her might to reach heaven. And sweet heaven they both experienced. The memory of her sweet cries and moans echoed in his head. Tonight, he will hear more. Oh how he longed to hear more. To feel her soft body against his again and again. To kiss those lips and feel them plum and swollen red from his rough command. His hands craved to touch her breast and take them in his mouth. But most of all, to be bewitched with those slanted dark eyes.
Realizing he was smiling with his thoughts, he smiled even more. Standing up, Altair slightly moved aside and saw the guards long gone. The sound of the church bells echoed in all Jerusalem. Jumping out of the tent he made his way to the bureau. But he ran even faster wanting to see her again. To see her smile in his safe return. To see her, just to see her.
Jumping down in the small garden, he decided he will make any excuse to keep her near. To keep her with him for as long as possible.
Entering the room, he saw Malik getting things together his blade and a sword. His stomach turned around.
"Altair!" Malik froze and stood in surprise.
"Where's is she?" Altair asked walking to him.
"She went to see her horse. I wanted to go with her, but she insisted I stayed and wash up from last night, she wouldn't take long. But I see the mistake I did. It has been more than two hours and when I heard the bells I knew the people would run with fright, confusing her and maybe a soldir- I don't want to think about it. I'm going out to find her."
"No!" Altair stopped his friend. "You stay here if she returns, I'll go find her."
"And of Robert?" Malik asked.
"He wasn't there, he is in Acre with his king. Afraid to fight me, when I find Azeneth I will kill him." Altair began to walk to the door.
"Shouldn't you tell Al Mualim?" Malik asked walking to him.
"No. I won't lose him again. I know where he is, and he has to die." Stopping. "And Malik, I know it might not matter to you but . . . I'm sorry for everything. I'm sorry that because of me you lost your arm and your brother." Standing there Altair was ready for Maliks furry.
"I do not accept your apology." Malik responded looking eye to eye.
"I understand." With a broken heart Altair was about to turn on his heal when-
"No, you don't. I do not accept your apology, because you are not the same man who went with me into Soloman's Temple." Lifting his head he saw his best friend's truth and warm smile. Smiling in return Altair didn't waist another second and ran to the old man's ranch.
Landing when it was safe Altair ran across the building and saw the old man cleaning the horses leftovers. But no horse.
When the old man saw Altair, his expression told him everything.
It was cold, or maybe the thought that death might be near you made you cold. Layla, your horse felt uncomfortable as well. She shifted and moved between your thighs and you tried to sooth her with words as you stroke her hair.
You have to admit, you're lost. Where did the man say Acre was located? Looking at the trees around you, you knew where you came from, but where to go from now? Everything was in monochromatic tone. Grayish blue. Not a very good setting at all. The fog of the mountains didn't help. The cold wind poked your body like a thousand knifes, sending none stop shivers up your spine.
The directions from the old man sent you to a dead end. That or you just made a wrong turn at the wrong tree house. No, your fathers camp should be near somewhere. You are at the heart of the Crusader camp. Looking around for any Templar's or Crusader soldiers. You have to get away from here fast as possible.
Looking at the heavens for any sign, oh how you regretted leaving Altair, you should have waited for him to finished his missions, but then you would just grow more emotionally attach to him and he will never return your feelings. Allah, please I need your help. Send me an angel to guide me. Closing your eyes holding back more fear and tears, a ray from the sun pointed towards North. Could that be really a sign of direction? Looking at the rest of the sky, the sun was covered by the heavy clouds. Yes, your heart said.
With all your heart and faith you galloped to the direction. Yes! The oldest camp of the Crusaders! Just like the old man said! Still racing forward you turned the right corner the old man said and found yourself in a resting place for 6 Crusaders and 4 Templar's. All of them on the floor while their horse drank from a near wail. Their laughs were interrupted by your presence and when they turned to look at you the blood from your face disappeared.
Frozen in place, you aren't in good shape to fight ten men. All you were able to steal from Malik was 1 sword and 4 knifes. But maybe if you just go around them, maybe you won't have to fight them. Guiding Layla with your knees, the both of you circled around them praying, hoping they won't bother you.
"Hey! You there! Halt!" One Crusader said stepping towards you.
No! You can't stop! And they will chase you till they have you killed. Graving the four knifes you killed 2 Crusaders and 2 Templar's. Down to 6 men. Galloping towards the North. Fallowing the sign from Allah, the men were catching up fast. Layla is the fastest runner but her wound slowed her down. No no no no no, this can't happen, Hia! You yelled and snapped the reins to make her go fast, but in no time the men caught up to you and they were at your side. Only two chased you. Pulling out the sword you prepared yourself and metal touched metal trying to fight back. Pulling back Layla, it wasn't good wasting her energy like this. You will fight these two men. But you noticed they stopped, they both walked away and they seemed confused.
"A woman?" One said in confusion. OH NO! The wind must have pulled back the veil.
"Should we fight her, captain?" One asked.
"I'm not a Templar who would kill any Muslim that crosses my path, and my blade has never touched a woman's flesh. But she killed two of my men. Tell me woman why should I spare your life?" The captain asked, but was really pleased by your beauty.
"I only wish to find Salah ad-Din's camp. I'm sorry about your men, I was frightened. I'm only a woman seeking this man. Salah ad-Din." You replied with heart behind shield.
"What should we do? We can't let her go to our enemy. For all we know she could have been a spy wondering in our camp learning about our secrets. We can't let her go Captain." The other said, and your heart sank.
"You're right lieutenant. I'm sorry, but I can't let you go madam." At the sound of those words you tried to run forward but they blocked your path. When you turned around you were tugged by your leg and pulled down to the hard floor. Standing up ready to attack the soldier, but four strong arms pulled you back against a cold rock. You struggled to free yourself.
"We got a feisty one here sir." Two more soldiers came. Templar's. "What do we do?"
"Our King would know. She is pretty after all." The captain walked up to you holding your chin and examining your face. "She is a desert rose, very rare with all the dead weeds this land offers." How dare he insult the other women! Pulling free and biting his hand the man pulled you back and one Templar slapped your mouth hard. Your mouth throbbed in pain.
Glaring at the man who slapped you he had a satisfaction grin. Feeling helpless this can't be it, this can't be the end of your pitiful destiny. When Layla recognized your state she screamed and knocked the captain down.
"Hold that horse!" One ordered. She struggled till the other two men came and held her down. Back to 6 men. When you were about to fight for your freedom, the men that held you fell on the floor with knifes on their back.
The air left your heart when you recognized them. Only one man in this whole world owns them, and he will kill the remaining guards. And after that, he will demand answers from you. Looking around, you couldn't see him, but he was here. You know he is here. Gathering all your thoughts, you have to get away from here, away from him. Looking at the guards they had their full attention on Layla. You pulled one knife off one dead man's back and charged to the lieutenant. Down to 3 men. Stabbing him on his back you grabbed your sword and saw the fallen angel falling from the heavens and skillfully fight the other men.
At this point, you had two options, help him fight, or run to your fathers camp. Looking back to your right, behind tall trees you saw your fathers flags dance with the air, calling you to safety. But the only place your heart felt safe was with Altair. You knew the cold truth, to be with him meant to suffer for the rest of your life. And you won't let that happen.
Down to 2 men. Running up the mountain with Layla you were pulled back by a strong force. Altair held your gown and kept you in place.
"Let go Altair!" You commanded, what a De Javu. Just like the first time you met him. But this time he was covered in blood. He looked severely injured, it hurt seeing him like this but you told yourself, he will be fine. With his right arm he killed another man. No! You have to get away from him before he was done with the last soldier and demanded answers from you. Disobeying his orders, is something he is not friendly of.
"NO!" He answered you. He was almost done with the man. Cutting your gown off from his hand you fell on your butt and mounted Layla fast galloping all she could offer to your fathers camp. Putting a mile and a half between you and him. But you forgot something, no you left it willingly, your heart in Altair's hands. A stream of tears fell from your eyes and the strong wind blew them off.
There they are, the flags of your father. A black eagle. Finally you're with your family. Reaching a tall wooden gate you got off Layla and knocked hard.
"Open up! It's me! Salah ad-Din's Daughter! Azeneth! Open up!" And in no time you heard the wood crack as it opened revealing Jabari.
"Azeneth!" He ran up to you and hugged you as hard as possible. "Abjan dulilah, you're safe." He thanked Allah. "Come! This is not a safe place." He brought you inside. "Are you wounded? Do you want water, food, anything?"
"No Thank you. Just take me to my father and brothers. I need to see them."
"Yes of course." Jabari commanded a horse and you mounted Layla. Ridding up the mountain very distant from the training camp was your father's tent. Tall and strong, just like your father. Soldiers passed by looking at you then to their mission. Some smiled some bowed some didn't recognize you. Six guards stood at the entrance. Getting off Layla, a soldier opened the flaps and Jabari entered after you.
Sitting on the floor with 4 other men surrounding him your father instructed them with his plans.
"Father!" When he looked up he looked like he has seen the impossible become possible. You returned to him. Rushing to hug him he pushed the men aside and you joined arms.
"Praise Allah's name. You have returned to me safely my child." Finally you are united with your father. But there was something missing in your heart. How? You are finally with your family. . . But something was missing to complete you whole. He pulled back and rained your face with kisses and love. "Are you fine my dear? Did anything happen to you? Are you hurt, injured, hungry, thirsty?" As he pulled you to sit down, Jabari escorted the other men out to leave you and your father alone.
"Water will be nice." Sliding your dry tong on your lips. Wanting fresh liquid your father snapped his fingers and a servant came in with fresh water and ice. Yes your father has ice. It was once served to the Crusader King before Richard. Drinking a good amount you sight in gratitude.
"I'm so happy your safe Azeneth. When your brothers came in and Tarik said you were taken by an Assassin, I . . . My whole world fell on my shoulders. I didn't know what to do. I was scared thinking they. . . There was so much in my head I . . . I'm just glad you escaped my dear." He hugged you once more.
"I didn't escape. The Assassin helped me. He noticed I was injured and he took me to his friend to aid me. I owe my life to him. He helped us escape from the attack. If it wasn't for him, I don't think my brothers and I would have made it out alive. Altair saved us." You said realizing you addressed him by his name to your father.
"Then thank Allah, my allegiance to the Assassins is still strong and true. I believe you're tired my love. Go, rest on my bed, and rest a sure that there is nothing else to worry about. You are safe here with me. Go." He helped you stand up and guided you to his bed. But the last thing you want to do is sleep, how can you sleep when Altair might come in at any time, plus your body is too awake to rest. But when your father took you in a tent connected to this one, the moment your eyes saw the bed, your body ached to fall on it. The bed looked more comfortable than anything in the world, but something would be missing, and that would be Altair. His strong arms won't be holding you anymore. Then something else was missing. Tarik!
"Father, where is Tarik? He came wounded to you. How is he?" You asked stopping and ready to go to see him.
"My dear, he . . . Tarik die last night. He lost too much blood. There was nothing we could do to save him." Could things get any worse? Your best friend died. Your future husband died. He who loved you with every breath he took, is dead. Finding hard to breath, your knees gave in and you sat down and cried in silence . . . Tarik is dead . . . was this punishment? For not loving him back? No you didn't know of his feelings till it was too late. Tarik didn't deserve to die; he was so young and full of life.
Guilt pulled your body down more and more till you were crying your mixed feelings out. Laying on the thin mattress your tears fell on the cushions. Why did his life have to end in such a painful way? Why? Why?
Not noticing when your father left, you continued to cry till the pain took you to a peaceful sleep.
AGHHH! It was all a dream! It must all be a nightmare! Impossible to believe, but the pain on his ribs said otherwise. On the cold floor beneath him, his fingertips were tainted with blood. His blood. Coughing out I good chunk, he wiped it with the side of his arm. Smearing the blood across his face. He tasted the salty iron in it. He regret not telling Malik to attend to his wounds earlier. But now it is not the time for any regrets, only to make things better. And now he has to kill his own Master.
The man was like a father to him. Al Mualim was the only one that trained him. He made Altair train tough and hard till his bones cracked. The years of none stop training separated Altair from his real parents. Al Mualim hardly let Altair see them so he wouldn't develop love and affection towards his parents. So he won't grow week and sentimental. So he would grow strong, cold, and distant. Trained to never love. And in that, Al Mualim succeeded, till now. Till last night.
Never in his life did he believe in Magic and God, but last night God showed himself in the body of a beautiful woman and took him to heaven. And now, Magic was on the hands of his master. The golden sphere Malik took from Robert was on his masters hands. He always asked himself why the need of gold? Assassins never killed for gold, but for justice. So why did his master insisted for this object, and today his questions were answered.
The man was mad with power, greed in control and order. Multiple copies of his master surrounded him. At first Altair was ready to fight one man, but then his masters body separated into two, then four, then six, then nine. One by one he fought, but how is he suppose to defeat them all? Think Altair think!
Standing up, he held his sword tight. How is he supposed to fight them all when he is weak? Every breath he took he felt blood slide down. Every time he killed one copy, the body disappeared. Or maybe, he is not to kill all of them. Concentrating, maybe just maybe, if he killed the real Al Mualim, the rest would disappear. Putting all his skills to test, under his hood, his eyes examined each body carefully. But they all looked the same, identical to the original.
When he felt the warm familiar breath, he glanced on his right. He closed his eyes and heard the rough sound of breathing on that direction. Quickly he attacked the one on his right stabbing his blade of the man's robes but the old man dodged his attack cutting his side. Successfully his theory was right. The other copies were gone.
When his master hissed and grunted with pain he looked at his side, Altair saw he caused more damage then what he thought. Altair ran to finish immediately his master but was soon stopped and froze by invisible hands, Al Mualim's control. The sphere glowed and so did Altair. He didn't like being the moppet of no one. Until last night. But he can't think of that right now. He has to concentrate whats happening right now if he wishes to see her again. In the same position Jesus Christ was crucified, Altair stood in front of his master.
The old man stood grinned and laughed with pure satisfaction since he had the upper hand now. One swing and Altair's head would be separated from his body. Never to feel the fresh air on his face. Never to feel the touch of Azeneth. Never to kiss her again. Never again.
"Any last words?" The old man asked as he got close to Altair and he felt his life being taken away from him.
"You lied to me! You called Roberts word foul when all along it was yours as well!" He spat at the man.
"I've never been much good at sharing." Al Mualim played with his words.
"You won't succeed! Others will find the strength to stand against you." Altair growled.
"And this is why as long as men maintain free will, there can be no peace." The man sighed.
"I killed the last man who spoke as such." Yes, keep playing with him, he thought. Altair will lead his master to his trap.
"Bull words boy! Just words!"
"Then let me go! I'll put words into action!" Altair teased, but he was not prepared when the old man began laugh. "Tell me 'master', why you did not make me like the other Assassin's? Why allow me to retain my mind?"
"Who you are and what you do are twined too tight together. Derive on of one would have deprived me of the other. And those Templar's had to die!" Sigh. "But the truth is, I did try. In my study, when I showed you the treasure. But you are not like the others. No, you sought through the allusion."
"Illusion?"
"That's all it ever done, this Templar treasure, this Piece of Eden," Tasting sour he said "this word of God. Dou you understand now? The sea was never parted. The water never turned to wine. It was not Iris that spun the Trojan War, but this! Illusions! All of them!" Al Mualim growled.
"What you plan is no less than Illusion! To force men to fallow you against their will!"
"Is it any less than the fathoms they fallow now? Those so called Gods that they run out from this world while men slaughter one another in their names! They live amongst an illusion already, I'm just simply giving them another, one that demands less blood." He glanced at Altair, with eyes that reflected the world he has planned.
"At least they choose these fathoms."
"Oh, do they? Aside from the occasional covert or heretic?"
"It isn't right!" Altair growled!
"Ahh and now logic has left you." He spoke as if he knew much more. "In its place you embrace emotions. Tell me Altair, why? When I trained you away from it?" Altair's heart skipped a beat and saw Azeneth smile in his head. She was safe now with her father. Could the man have the power to read his emotions as well. To know better of his feelings towards Azeneth? No he can't. "I am disappointed." The old man spat.
"What's to be done then?" Altair glared back keeping his head strait inside.
"You will not fallow me and I cannot compel you." The man sounded almost sad.
"You refuse to give up this evil scheme?"
"It seems though we're at an impasse."
"No! We are at an end!"
"I will miss you Altair. You were my very best student." Al Mualim sighed in disappointment and positioned himself to attack.
When the invisible hands let go of Altair he didn't wait a second and prepared himself. He waited patiently and Al Mualim growled as metal clashed with metal. Spinning around Altair punched at the old man's open wound. When he heard his master scream with pain at a blink of an eye he disappeared. To where? Altair looked around, above and behind! Coward! He has to be here somewhere.
"Come out old man!" His question was answered. At his left he heard a faint panting. He ran to the lower levels of the garden. Jumping over a level there he was. Tired and week. Al Mualim held his side, but when he noticed Altair he got ready to fight. Charging with all might, Altair waited and again slashing away his opponents swing and hit once more on his wound then knocked the man's jaw to the left then to the right then kicking him back on the ground. When Altair lifted his sword the man disappeared again as his evil laughter echoed in the garden. This is beginning to annoy him. He has to end this right now!
As Altair ran up to the old man, using the heavy breathing as guide Altair tripped falling on his side. Grunting he ignored the pain and the stain of blood he left on the grass and ran to end this fight. Reaching his target, he smiled when he saw his opponent week. When Al Mualim looked up, rage was in his eyes. The mighty will fall.
"You, you can't defeat me!"Al Mualim charged with anger, a grand mistake
and Altair stepped away and tripped the man on his back stabbing his chest with his hidden blade. The shock in his masters face mirrored his own. Never had he thought that he would kill his master. The man, who aided him, feed him, trained him, the man that he once considered as father. The Piece of Eden rolled of Al Mualim's hands as he listened for his last words.
"Impossible. The student cannot defeat the teacher." He looked up at Altair.
"La shaiq' waqee mutlak bl kollin mumkin." Nothing is true. Everything is permitted.
"So it seems. . . You have won then." He smiled in disbelief. "Go now, and claim your price."
The only price Altair had was to have survived this battle. "You held fire in your hands old man. It should have been destroyed."
"Destroying the only thing capable of end the crusades and creating true peace? Never."
"Then I will."
"We'll see about that." Those were his last words before death took him away from this world. Altair slid his fingers down to close his master's eyes. Standing up, Altair looked down at the sphere that makes men greed with control. Cautiously, Altair walked up to it, hearing a whisper of his masters voice. Then as it glowed the sphere projected lights up, showing what seemed to be earth. The ground they live in.
"I applied my heart to know wisdom, to know madness and folly. I preserve that this was also a chase after win. For in much wisdom is much greed. And in the increase of wisdom, increases sorrow. Destroy it! Destroy it as you said you would!"
"I… I can't." He really couldn't, his head told him to listen to reason and destroy it, but something in him didn't let him so. Was it fear? No never. Then what?
"Yes yes you can Altair, but you won't." And with that, it was the last of his master.
What now? What to do with it? The once that knew of its power are dead, but others will want it. And another war cannot happen. He won't let it happen. Admiring such wonder, he saw his reflection at passing rays. He cannot do this alone. Even if he can keep this object away from greedy hands, he will need someone he trusts to protect this object after his death and passing generations. Someone like . . . like a son. The thought made him smile.
Not once in his life did he ever thought of getting married, let alone children. But in this case, he had no choice. He could train orphans to become Assassin's but something deep inside told him, his children are the best choice than anyone else. With a smile and a determined look, he knew who will be the mother of his children.
"Altair . . ." Behind him Malik's steps stopped fallowed by many other Assassin's and he could hear the amazement in their breaths for such unbelievable beauty in front of their eyes.
Taking one step forward a rare spin in his head blurred his sight. When hard pain hit his back all he could see was the sky till everything turned black.
Looking around you feared that in any hour, in any minute Altair will appear and demand answers. But why are you scared? A day has passed. He didn't show up last night, he will never show up again. He wanted to get rid of you in the first place and you did it for him. You jumped over the wall that will separated you both for eternity.
Sitting up on your father's bed, your eyes are swollen from crying. You rubbed your eyes to wake up, but it was useless. Instead you fell right back on the mattress. Turning to your left you hugged a pillow. Staring at a distance you remembered all that has happened in the last seven days or so. You don't remember the amount of days, but just the events that sealed your destiny. Requeems death, the attack, the Templar's, and Altair. Burying your face on the pillow you tried to take him off your head. You tried to erase him off your head but it was impossible. He was sealed in your head, on your body and in your heart.
At least one good thing happened this week. And that is the peace Jerusalem needs. The marriage that will unite both cultures. Smiling to yourself, you thanked Allah, finally peace will fall on this land. Sitting once more you pushed yourself off the bed. It is of no use to stay and cry for ridiculous feelings that only make you want shut down the world or maybe end it. Life goes on and you have a duty in life to complete. Stand next to your father and help him make a better future for the people.
Out side your tent; you heard the call to prayer. It was almost over; you close your eyes asking for forgiveness. Pulling your fathers robes to cover yourself you noticed a small tub filled with warm water was in the middle of the room. And on the side a table with food and beverage. You smiled gratefully for a father that will do anything for you. Maybe even give up his riches and kingdom for his children. That you have no doubt.
Washing your hands you sat and filled your empty stomach with this blessed food. Savoring every unique taste you close your eyes and took another bite. When your stomach was full and satisfied, you stood up and removed the layers of robes. Placing the smelly fabric far away you placed in a foot inside and a shiver from your foot to your body made you moan slightly. It reminded you of . . . "Altair." You whispered out loud.
Bringing in the rest of your body in the tub you laid back. Sighing out your stress and worries. You grabbed the wash cloth and began to scrub your body. You wondered what could Altair be doing now? Eating? Sleeping? Recovering from his wounds? Or could he be taking a shower as well? Smiling you pictured his body. His well toned body. You've only seen his body in the dark. You wondered how it will look under day time. Under day light you will see more clearly his scars, his arms, his face and everything else.
Too bad you won't be doing so. Although he is gone for the rest of your life, your mind and body will always remind you of him. The memory of him will hurt, but you are grateful for the divine nights you had with him. It might have been for a short time, but you rather have been with him for a short time than nothing at all.
After scrubbing your body clean you dressed with the clothes that were on the side of the bed. It was a long dark blue gown decorated with silver designs. Putting the veil on you stepped out of the tent.
"Good morning my lady." Jabari greeted you at the entrance of the tent with two guards. You smiled in return.
"Where is my father? I would like to speak with him." You asked scanning around for him.
"He is in the war tent. He is to meet with the Crusader King in an hour."
"Take me to him." With no other word Jabari lead you to him. You fallowed behind him as the two guards fallowed behind you. When you stepped in the huge tent, you saw that the room was being prepared with food, wine and beautifully decorated. Well fit to greet a King.
"My daughter!" Your father came towards you as your bothers ran up to hug you. It felt so good seeing them well. When you hugged your father behind him you saw your uncle. As happy as he could be, today will be the agreement for his Marriage with the Kings sister. After you hugged your uncle your father took you by your shoulder and brought you to the middle of the room. "Tell me what do you think? I want this to be perfect. In Allah's name nothing shall go wrong today and Jerusalem will once again know peace. Insh' Allah." If God wills it.
"Peace will fall on Jerusalem father. I know it." You smiled and hugged him.
"My King. The King has arrived." One soldier said as he caught his breath.
"So soon? Very well. Let him in. Jabari, see to him." With a nod, Jabari was off. "Come my children. Traditionally you are not to be here. But I will not let you off my sigh. Plus today you shall be a witness of this glorious day to us all. Sit and be quiet. That is the only thing I ask. Azeneth my dear, I want you by my side." You stood at his left and your uncle on his right.
Waiting patiently your heart began to raze. You can feel your father's heart speed as well. This is it. This day will be remembered through history. When the tent flaps opened your heart sank. They revealed about ten crusader soldiers fallowed by two who held a flag with a lion. Fallowed by The lion himself. King Richard Lion Heart.
He gave an aura much equal to your father. Could it be? That finally your father found his match? The man's hair was red as fire could burn, and very handsome for a pale face. Behind him entered a female dressed in very expensive clothes, a red head as well. That must be his sister, Joan of England. She doesn't look quite happy.
After the echoes of metal armor became still, silence took over the tent. King Richard smiled and bowed as your father greeted him with a bow. Your uncle had his eyes pinned on the woman. Never in your life have you seen such love in him. Is that how a man looks at a woman when he loves her?
"Welcome to my tent. The sun is very strong outside; would you like to drink something?" Your father greeted him as if they were long friends.
"Many thanks, but I would like to end this at once. In peace of Jerusalem." Richard replied. Scanning the room, he looked at your brothers then stopped at you. You smiled and looked down.
"Very well. Let me introduce you to my children. My four sons Prince Mas'ud, Yaq'ud , Da'ud , and the smallest Ishaq. And my only daughter, Princess Azeneth."
"Please to meet you all." The king bowed. He also acknowledged your uncle with a small nod. "My sister, Joan. Joan." As she stepped forward, she glared at your father and everyone in the room. Her dark red hair gave you not a good feeling about her. It was said that when she ruled over Jerusalem, she killed her own son, so he wouldn't be king. The reasons behind her actions are unknown to you, but your heart said she only wanted to protect him from war. She didn't want her son be part of this war. This cruel war. Now she stands widow and childless.
"Get on with whatever you are to say to this King. I don't even know why you brought me here." She hissed at her brother while folding her arms.
"She is right. The sooner we do this the better. As agreement, we are here to discuss the fate of Jerusalem. Since war has brought us nowhere but death and illness," King Richard had his gaze on your father. "I proposed marriage in both sides, and they should rule as King and Queen of Jerusalem. Tying both religions in one city of peace."
"What? You intend to marry a Muslim brother? What of-"
"It is you Joan." The King said coldly, "you and Saif shall rule Jerusalem together as one, and finally the holy city will be free of destruction and death." He took her hand and led her to your uncle. She looked unreadable. She stood as quiet as a soldier. Expressionless. As if she was trying to gather her brothers words. Strange, shouldn't he have told her about this?
Your uncle reached out his hand and just as he was about to hold her hand, she pulled it back. Confusing everyone.
"No! You cannot make me! I will not marry this dirty Muslim. I don't want to." She said out loud. Confusing everyone even more. Didn't he tell her? Why is she declining till now? Unless Richard never told her. "I don't care what happens to the city, I will not marry this filthy Muslim! Never!" She screamed at your uncle.
When two guards were ready to push her away, your uncle raised a hand to halt. His face seemed cold, and emotionless. No, he fell in love with this woman! What could he be feeling right now that she rejected him? In front of him, she spat and stepped on his heart like a carpet on fire. Leaving only ashes of pain. By the look on his face he was being strong and careful to not show any emotions that would make him look week.
"In your hands rested the peace for the people." Your uncle Saif began to speak in a serious voice. "When one is born in royalty, that first thing that we are taught is that we are to serve the people. When it comes to decision making, the people come first. A woman as yourself, who once rules Jerusalem should know better. I will not touch you, if that's what you're afraid of. That I promise." He swallowed with regret for his words because deep inside you knew he wished to make her his woman and only his. "Join me in marriage, and together we shall-" He was interrupted by a slap on the face and with his bare hand stretched out to her. Guards from both sides prepared to fight, but immediately both Kings gave command to let down guard.
"I will not marry you." She hissed, and stormed out of the tent. King Richard fallowed her out as he called on her name. Now what? What of Jerusalem? What will happen? When you turned to look at your uncle his face was hidden from a deep shadow and he walked fast out of the tent from behind. Your father was about to walk to him, but you placed a hand on his shoulder and without words you told him you will see to your uncle. He should stay just in case.
Stepping out to the fresh air your uncle stood at a nearby tree. Leaning against it face down, as if catching his breath from a long race.
"Sidi Saif?" You approached him slowly.
"I loved her Azeneth, I loved her like no other. I . . . Thought that by saving myself to the right one, my heart would be spared from any damage. But I see now, no one gets through this world without falling in love and not coming out harmless. . . It hurts so much." Falling on his knees you ran up to him and hugged him tight. Oh man, it is hard to look at a men cry. So weak and vulnerable.
You might not know how it feels to be rejected, but you know that if you had been rejected by Altair, it would hurt just like this. Or maybe worst. That was why you had to end it before it was too late.
"Let me go, my dear, I have to get out of here." He said as he stood and wiped his tears.
"Where will you go?" You asked, afraid for his sake.
"I don't know. . . I just have to get out of here." He began to walk to the forest.
"Will you come back?" You asked afraid he might do something against his life. But the only thing you got in return was a smile as a teardrop fell from your eye. You let go of him and in a couple of minutes he disappeared in the woods.
Allah, please guide him back home to his family. Please heal his heart. Your heart ached for him. He doesn't deserve this. He doesn't. . .
"The man will be back. He just needs sometime to gather his thoughts."
All blood drained to your heart at the sound of that voice. Would you dare turn around? Is it your imagination? Or . . . is he really here? Slowly you trembled as you turned to face back to the tent. Your knees went weak at the sight of him. The fallen angel that saved you. The man who made you beg for him, the man whom you thought will never cross your destiny again. The Assassin, the love of your life.
As the wind blew, your hair dance in front of you seeming him look like a mirage, but deep in your heart you knew it was him. Altair.
Speechless, your body grew tense when he decreased the distance between you. Not being able to find the strength to move you stood still. His powerful walk echoed in the opened fields of Acre. As the wind stopped, Altair only stood inches away from you. Again, you are only able to see his lips and dark eyes. You sighed and closed your eyes when his strong hand caressed your cheek. You lightly leaned to his touch. Oh how you missed his touch.
"Why did you run away from me?" The soothing caress of his sensual voice send a familiar shiver to your core. His question didn't surprise you. As you looked up at him his hands moved to your lips. "You knew I was going to bring you here. You could have been hurt yesterday." Very true. "If I wouldn't have gotten to you in time, you would have-"
"Well you did. You saved me Altair, and I am thankful for that. I'm with my father now. You are free of me and you can rest assure that I will be well guarded, preventing me from killing. You can leave now." You said looking at a side in regret of your last words. You don't want him to leave! Never! He pulled back his hand.
"Is that what you want? For me to leave?" No! "Tell me Azeneth. One word from you and I will do as you wish." You looked up at him. Your heart ached even more. His mouth called you to kiss him. Your hands just ached to touch him. Touch him one more time. Touch every inch of him. To touch Allahs' greatest masterpiece. Perfection of a man. Your hands would feel all of him. All of him. But if only they would touch his heart as well. And If only he knew. If only you had the balls to tell him the truth. If only . . . If only you weren't afraid to risk your heart as your uncle did. But you do know why. You will not be heart broken by an Assassins rejection.
Come on Azeneth, you have to tell him the lie! You have to speak. One word and you will have this Assassin away from you . . . forever. As you opened your mouth to say the biggest lie of your life, your father began to call on your uncle. As much as you didn't want to you walk away from Altair, you rushed in to the tent so your father wouldn't walk out and see you talking with a man alone. It is forbidden unless authorized.
"He told me he needs some time alone. He just went to check on something since he isn't needed anymore." You said looking at your father.
"That's fine." Your father responded.
"A thousand apologies, I should have told her about it before time. Although I don't think her response would have been any different." The Crusader King said walking to your father and you.
Now what? What would be of Jerusalem? Would your father risk his life in battle again? How many more fights will there be until they reached to some sort of agreement? You looked up at your father who also looked troubled. Filling a small chill of cold wind you knew Altair was near. But from the motionless guards he is nowhere in sight.
"Then we will discuss our next battle in a week." Your father said in a cold tone.
"There is no need for that yet." The Crusader King began as he got closer. "I am yet to be with queen." He said looking at you with an intense look. "I still hold my proposition of marriage. But it is me who will marry. If you accept Salah ad-Din, I would like to marry your daughter." He said getting really close to you, but stopped when you took a stepped back. "With this marriage, we shall come to an agreement of peace. Your daughter will rule in England by my side, or in Jerusalem however she wishes, but this will be our allegiance." He spoke so confident and strong. Shocked by his words you don't know what to say. So much has happened today that you are still trying to gather everything. "What do you say?" The king asked your father but he looked at you.
"I gave my daughter the freedom to marry whomever she wished, and although earlier I might have taken that away from her," He sounded guilty and apologetic. "I still give this to her choice. It is her choice if she accepts or not." Your father looked at you.
Now it is you who holds the fate of Jerusalem and the people. One more thing to add to the quivering temple of thoughts in your head and events that might collapse at any moment. As you heard the whisper of your brothers at your left, the eldest gave you a nod. As if saying to accept this marriage. As if saying this opportunity will never present itself. If you decline, there will only be more bloodshed, and God prevents, maybe your father's death. No, these crusades have to end. This war has to stop.
To others, this decision might seem a simple one, but not to you. You're the one marrying this man. You're the one who will sleep with this man. No other man will touch you but him . . . only him. Do you really want that? Taking a good look at this man, he was indeed handsome, but your heart doesn't respond to him. You don't know anything about this man. You don't know how he treats women. He might be rich, but your heart will never love him. You just might grow affection for this man as many arranged marriages do but, without love? There is no point. You always wished to marry with love. But the one you love will never love you. You glanced to your right and behind a soldier a white figure peeked out. Altair.
This man will never love you. He will go on living Assassinating, while you grow old and lonely in the same land he walks. No, the more land you put between him and you, just might help erase him from your mind. And this was your chance. Your chance to save Jerusalem, your chance to finally marry and your chance to forget Altair. The opportunity is right in front of you.
Looking once more at Altair, you took a deep breath to calm your lungs and relax your throat. The rays of the sun illuminated the room as it also reflected in his right eye. For once in your life you couldn't read him. His brow looked at you as if targeting a pray as well as his lips were thin with, anger? Rage? The room was quiet, awaiting your answer. Just as you were about to speak your voice was gone. Your mouth was opened but no sound came out of it. Why is it so hard to say yes? Because your heart only said yes to Altair, your body said yes for him and your mouth will only say "yes" to him.
When your hand was held by Richard his face was filled with joy. No, you spoke out loud! You didn't want to say yes to him. You said yes to Altair, not to him! NO! What have you done! You really have to stop yourself from daydreaming about Altair. But how can you? When he is the only thing in your mind. You can't take the words back, doing so will bring shame to your father. And as daughter of Salah ad-Din you will take full responsibility. Your body might not accept, but as princess, you have a duty to the people, and to the people you shall serve. Because it is the people you care with all your heart, like Altair. You want their home to be safe once more. And once more it shall be. This is the end to him. The end of wars. The end of your love.
"Yes. I do accept to be your queen King Richard."
