Chapter 10 - Insane Demise
She's been using you, can't you see? Altair had heard a familiar voice. Kill her Altair, kill her.
Alyssa was fast asleep as he had gripped her throat. He wasn't in control of his actions. It felt like someone else was more that getting what they wanted. His grip tightened as he was now seeing a fear in her eyes.
"Altair! Altair what are you doing?" Alyssa was instantly awakened, now struggling. "Stop- ugh.. I can't-"
There was a laugh in Altair's head, as if satisfied with such weakness he had. Altair couldn't do a thing, he wanted to stop it all. The power is nothing you can fight, Altair.
"NO, GET OUT OF ME HEAD!"
Alyssa was fully aware that by this time that he wasn't in control of his body. "Altair, listen to my-" Listen to my voice. She was desperately trying to keep calm, knowing she had to chose her words quickly yet carefully. You can fight this, I know you can. Think of Ezio...
Altair felt her breathing stop as her body stopped squirming. He fought the entity in his head, knowing that it would continue to get rid of what was left of Alyssa's lifeless body. Altair screamed, prying his fingers off her throat, now throwing himself to the ground. He felt the main substitute for his body was fighting what his mind was blocking. Altair knew he had the ability, just had to place effort into it.
What do you want from me? He asked, continuing to force himself to a safe area.
Get rid of the girl, she is nothing but trouble. The voice responded.
Alyssa was capable on regaining consciousness as she now made Altair a priority. She connected with his mind. Whatever it is... Whoever it is, you know it's not here.
Altair's eyes focused, understanding what she was getting at; a way out. Alyssa's right... you're an illusion. He placed his hands on his head. You can't tell me what to do...
There was a change of aura, the place didn't seem so heavy as it was before. A while had passed as Altair was given a glass of water and sat in a chair in Dabir's living room. There was nothing said or that could be said, knowing it was so sudden. Alyssa readjusted, getting her mind off of what happened. She changed to deep thought, seeing she was now checking food and anything important.
"Alyssa, you know I didn't mean to do what I did...." Altair says, breaking the silence.
"I know, I know. I just need some time to cool down. I'm just checking a few things we may need. I will need to make a trip back to my world."
Altair felt his head throb with pain, causing him to drop his glass. Alyssa was quick to assist, seeing now that he was in major pain. She forced him to the couch, to make things easier. There was an immense drop of temperature on Altair as she was now placed in a worrisome state. Alyssa retrieved a cold piece of cloth, seeing that what was here before was still around.
Altair was quick to loss consciousness, now residing in pain. There was a melt of the room around him, now seeing him stand in a white abyss. Alyssa didn't leave, seeing something familiar to her. There was a hand placed on his forehead.
"Altair, have you ever known on possession? Taking control of a person's body by your mind or soul?"
"What are you trying to say?"
"That someone WAS controlling your actions before. I heard the voice too. It's very possible."
Altair had grabbed Alyssa's arms, wanting to understand. She placed them down, knowing he wasn't doing any good. Altair, in the game, they have what is known as the Animus. Desmond had gone through your memories, retrieving your Eagle Vision. This is what is known as the Bleeding Effect. I bet you anything you could go to his body if you were aware of what was going on around you, but this is different. Whatever was controlling you was well aware of his goal.
There was thought given to the words, knowing all he had to do was accept them. Trying to define the logic of her words would be more that aggravating. He felt himself slip into the mortal coil of the world, falling unconscious. As he opened his eyes to a dream, he still felt Alyssa's presence, as if to guide him.
Looking around, Altair saw it was a memory of the past, crawling back his broken mind. He was Mahir, sitting at Masyaf's fountain. Mahir saw him with notice, grinning slightly. Altair walked up to him, seeing he had no choice.
"Hello Altair, it's good to see you. I wanted to thank you before leaving." Mahir spoke.
Wait... Altair had felt someone speak for him seeing that he had a choice to speculate in first person by this, seeing it was a lucid memory. "Where will you go?"
Mahir gave a disappointing look. "I don't know. I lost everyone I knew. My family, my friends... everyone. I want to hunt down the one responsible. I want to end his life."
"Then stay here for a while, I will speak with Al Mualim, we will accommodate you for what you need."
"No, Altair." Mahir refused. "I already have gotten in your way. You have saved my life, I can't do anymore. There is already so much I need to repay you."
"Do not think of it in that way. You're only a kid, thinking of killing the man responsible for taking everyone away from you. I won't let you do that."
There was another assassin who had overheard, now joining. "You are the sole survivor of what is left of Gaza. You know how lucky you are to be alive?"
Altair moved his arm out, making his associate stop before going any further. "Mahir, if you want to leave, it is of your will. Come with me to speak with Al Mualim. You can at the least do that."
Mahir nodded, letting Altair lead him on to the Fortress. There was a tense moment as Altair stood behind Mahir, seeing he needed a bit of confidence. Al Mualim listened as Altair spoke, seeing that there was a good point to all of this. He too was on Altair's side.
"You are to train in the way of the assassin, seeing that you know too much of our order. Then if you wish, you can hunt down the ones responsible."
Altair flinched from his dream, now seeing Alyssa sitting in the chair, reading a book. She saw the movement that he was now up. He took off the wet cloth, looking at her. There was a light smile, knowing everything was ok. There was traces of bruises on her neck for the marks left. Altair sat up, knowing he wanted to catch his breath.
"How are you feeling?" Alyssa had asked.
"Better, thank you." Altair responds while scratching his head.
Alyssa placed her book down, now packing a few things. "I need to head back to my world and grab a few things."
"Like what?"
"Some more food, medical supplies and first aid kits. Now that I can grab them, I might as well. Besides, my mom has a few things I can barrow from her and even leftovers." Alyssa explains. "I know she'll let me shop too."
"Let me go with you then." Altair suggested.
"It's best if we aren't seen together as much, knowing that the Creed is aware of my presence. I need to do this quick. Besides, I will only be gone for a while."
"If you think that is best, then I'll wait."
"Maybe you should check in with Rafiq, go back to Masyaf when you can, knowing you're last "trials" are to be completed. By then I should be back."
Altair gave a nod, now observing as Alyssa tightened the straps to one of the backpacks that were brought, seeing that it could carry more that expected. She gave another smile, kissing him before departing. Altair allowed it, seeing there was much to get done. There was only little regret lingering his mind, seeing her disappear into the crowds.
Making his way to the Bureau, he once again dropped down to see Rafiq working on a few clay pots. fixing them up. Rafiq was taken for a surprise, seeing that Altair was back in Damascus. Rafiq gave a laugh as he leaned on the counter.
Placing a hand on Altair's right shoulder, he spoke. "Altair, my friend. Why is it you are visiting me today?"
"Rafiq, I need to speak with you about something serious."
Rafiq placed away his clay pots, giving Altair his full attention. Altair explained about Adha; the illusions and voices he was hearing. The words gave concern to Rafiq, seeing that it wasn't a typical situation. Altair sat up upon the counter, then telling him of Alyssa and Ezio.
"This is quite a lot you are dealing with my friend, quite a lot. Perhaps it's something with how your mind is seeing it. You and Adha had a beautiful relationship, no one can change that. Perhaps being with Alyssa is having you regret."
"What would I have to regret? Adha left me, Rafiq."
"Yes, yes- but you never went after her. Maybe it's best you resolved the past. The best thing I see is being with Alyssa. She has a light no one else does."
"Everyone's different." Altair thought aloud.
"Then embrace that in her, don't push her away. Alyssa and I spoke you know..."
"What about?"
"She didn't want me saying much, but even before, she is very thankful she met you."
"Because I am not of her world. I bet you she would have judged me like anyone else."
Rafiq raised an eyebrow. "What makes you so sure?"
Flashes of memories passed through Altair's head. It was now as confusing as it was before. He felt weak, standing to gather himself. Altair was pacing, trying to make sense of things. Such as the mind could deceive, Altair knew that Rafiq was right. Nothing was as it seemed and Alyssa stuck by whatever decisions.
"Alyssa has told me of her past life, claiming that she was once an assassin. Everything she explained was on detail. It's hard to word, but I stared to see what she was talking. Her past life is a Brother we lost to the Templars just recently. Mahir Al-Saqr Sayyid."
"I know Altair, she has told me. It quite remarkable to see one of our own return to us, but would Al Mualim care or believe at this point is not to judge."
"Then there has to be a reason why she is here, now of all times as well."
"Perhaps it's to see the aftermath of everything, but it's the soul that is searching. Mahir maybe wants to know you are doing fine after the tragedy."
Altair shook his head. "That wouldn't be possible, reincarnation is only a theory amongst the many."
"Altair, why is it you are so bound to her then?"
The pain that Altair had earlier was coming back. He placed a hand on his head, feeling it become more unbearable. Altair pushed himself near the counter, feeling himself lose balance. Next he saw was Rafiq trying to catch him while scaling the counter. He called for Altair as he collapsed to the floor.
Altair responded to his subconscious, now opening his eyes to another close memory. Mahir was sitting next to him in a church. Mahir had a sword out, as if to pray. Altair had his arms crossed, looking around as if to be wasting his time.
"The High Priest had something you may want to take to Al Mualim." Mahir said.
There was another flash of light, now seeing himself stand in Solomon's Temple. He saw Mahir ahead as another stood beside him. The place was soon to fall apart as Altair was pushed out of the way. There was a feeling of adrenaline and a traumatizing event. Altair ran after the formed rubble, what is of the remains.
"Mahir, Mahir! Answer me!" Altair called.
Rubble was pushed out the way, relieving what was left of Mahir. He was in great amount of pain. Anger and sadness flowed through Altair. He stared at Mahir, seeing there was nothing more to do. Tears were streaming as Mahir struggled to breathe. Altair reached out, grabbing something from his companion. It was of writings, even a map.
"Take them, I won't need it anymore."
Altair broke from the memory, finding the sun's light to shine into his eyes. Rafiq was beside him awaiting for the return. There was nothing said as Rafiq shook his head. He couldn't say anything, now looking to attend back to work. Altair stood up, not knowing how to word it, but there was more than enough to try and comprehend.
Taking leave after gathering himself, Altair was heading on his way back to Dabir's. He detected Alyssa following him shortly after. They didn't say anything to each other as they reached their destination and locked the door. Alyssa scavenged through her backpack, pulling out boxes of what appeared to be snacks. Arranged, Altair knew it was more than to last for a couple weeks.
Alyssa had approached him, seeing that there as a look of fright in his face. As if he had been through a nightmare. She gave him a hug, letting him relax. He held her tightly, knowing it was more than that. Something was growing in the back of his mind. As if he couldn't handle the pain that was forming in the back of his memories.
"Alyssa, I need to tell you something." Altair states. "Adha... Adha never left me. She.. she's dead."
Alyssa looked up at his eyes, there was a shocked look. "What happened?" She asked.
"They killed her, throwing her overboard. I held her lifeless body in my arms. But that was only the beginning of my rage. I read on your past life, to every detail. which is true. Mahir, being that he was mainly around me, shared and assisted through my pain to have me stay strong in the Creed. Love is and always has been forbidden in the Creed. It wasn't long after I watched him die as well, it lead to me being who I was in Jerusalem. Since you know, there is no need to explain that."
She thought of the game, seeing he was explaining how it started. "Which lead you to kill that innocent. You were enraged, but what made it worse was Kadar died not long after. You lost so many people you cared for because of recent events. I, I am sorry."
Alyssa didn't let go, out of affection, he felt her cry, hearing it was only more that what is beyond the reaction expecting. It was as if she understood. Knowing that many had done the same, but not with the same story. Everyone lost at love, perhaps forming who they were around them.
Alyssa gave him a light kiss, returning to what she had been doing. Altair checked his equipment, knowing he had to head back to Masyaf. He sharpened what he could, knowing there was yet more to get done. His senses have him turn back towards Alyssa. She was feeling strange, if not uneasy. Her hands rubbed her stomach, seeing there was something to adjust with.
Altair reached behind her as he heard her thoughts. It feels so strange to me, I don't know how to react. I'm more than conflicted and I know you can't feel it either.
Alyssa, it's all right. It will all be all right. Altair reassured her, knowing he wanted to help.
I'm gonna lay down, I have been up for a while running around like a mad m- woman. Alyssa kissed his forehead, walking to the bedroom. If you need to get work done, go; I will be resting.
Altair obeyed, now seeing there was no choice. He saw a box of Twinkies as his feet reached the door. Altair figured how to pull the wrapper off, munching on the whipped creme that was inside the not so sponge cake. He made his way back to his horse, swinging on and heading on through to Masyaf. It was unknown if they were searching for him, but continued to do what was necessary.
Upon arrival, Altair slid off, passing in through the village, but something was different as he was about to reach the Fortress. It was as through eyes were watching from the back of his head. Ignoring the feeling, Altair climbed the usual stairs, now changing everything.
"Come in Altair, I trust you are well rested?" Al Mualim asks. "Ready for your remaining trials?"
"I am." Altair answers."But I would speak with you first. I have questions."
"Ask then, I'll do my best to answer."
"The Merchant King of Damas murdered the nobles who ruled his city. Majd Addin in Jerusalem used fear to force his people into submission. I suspect William meant to murder Richard and hold Acre with his troops. These men were meant to aid their leaders; instead they chose to betray them." Altair paused. "What I do not understand is why."
"Is the answer not obvious?" Al Mualim questions. "The Templars desire control, each man as you've noted, wanted to claim their cities in their Templar name. But the Templars themselves might rule the Holy Land and eventually beyond." He gave a breath. "But they can not succeed in their mission."
"Why is that?" Altair asked.
"Their plans depend on the Templar treasure; the Piece of Eden." Al Mualim introduced. "But we hold it now and they can not hope to achieve their goals without it."
"What is this treasure?" Altair pretended to act surprise as he heard Alyssa tune into the conversation. Altair now saw what was longed for; Edward spoke of it, even of Alyssa as well. There was an aura given off as Altair approached the object that laid in Al Mualim's hands.
"It is temptation." Al Mualim said with power.
"It's just a piece of silver." Altair grunted, dissatisfied.
"Look at it!" Al Mualim demanded.
"What am I supposed to see?"
"This piece of silver cast out Adam and Eve; It turned staffs into snakes; parted and closed the red sea; Aries used it to start the Trojan War; And with it a pour cup turned water into wine."
"It seems rather plain for all the power you claim it has. How does it work?"
"He who holds it commands the hearts and minds for whoever looks upon it. Who have a tastes of it; as they say."
"And Gainer's men?"
"An experiment, herbs used to simulate its effects. To be ready for when they held it."
"Talal supplied them, Tamir equipped them. They were preparing for something, but what?"
"War." Al Mualim answers.
"And the others... The men who ruled the cities; they meant to gather up their people. Make them like Garnier's men."
"The perfect citizens, the perfect soldiers, a perfect world."
"Robert de Sable must never have this back."
"So as long as he and his Brothers live, they will try."
"Then they must be destroyed."
"Which is what I've had you doing. There are two more Templars who require your attention. One in Acre known as Sibrand; One in Damas called Jubair. Visit with the Bureau Leaders, they'll instruct you further."
"As you wish." Altair obeyed.
"Be quick about it, no doubt Robert de Sable is made nervous by our continued success. His remaining followers to expose you. They know you come; the man in the white hood. They'll be lookin-"
"They won't find me." Altair spoke above. "I am but a blade in the crowd."
"Here, my gift to you." Al Mualim was concluding. "In gratitude for the good work you've done."
Altair saw that it was a better sword than what he had. Placing the old one aside, he knew Alyssa would want to get her hands on it, seeing that she had a fascination with swords as was. Altair twirled the new sword, making a few infinity like symbols as he sheathed it. He made his way down the stairs with haste, eager to speak with Alyssa on the Piece of Eden.
Scaling on to his horse, he made sure his ride to Damascus was a fast, but smooth one as he ran through the streets on through to Dabir's home. He made sure no one was looking as he opened the door, closing it behind him. Altair saw that it was quiet. There was a clear recall that Alyssa was in the bedroom, but as he entered, there was a blanket of darkness in the room as she slept.
Sitting down next to her, Alyssa was half awake upon his arrival. "I know what he said to you anyway, there was no point on waking me up to tell me something I knew."
"I have a theory that came across my thoughts though. If these men were preparing for war, wouldn't you think for a good reason why you were 'sent' here?" Alyssa turned her head, not interested. She closed her eyes, wanting to fall back asleep. "I'm being serious Alyssa..."
"Great Mr. Serious, now I'm going to get grumpy. Can we talk of this later? I just want time to relax and forget everything right now."
Altair stroked her hair. "All right, you get some rest then. I am just glad we may be able to get answers."
As he left, Altair closed the bedroom door for Alyssa. He closed in, knowing he had to head to Acre. Leaving his old sword next to the fireplace, his hands swiftly wrote a note, placing it next to the sword. Altair then cracked his neck, taking a sighing breath and headed on off to Acre.
Acre had a bad smell as always. The aroma of dead bodies and the smell of fires. Typical during such the crusades. Altair gave time to over look the area he had to check out, knowing it was near the docks. He gave way to climb some view points, making a few areas clear. Leaps of Faith made things better as he let the wind renew his senses.
Altair knew what had to be done, so he made his way quick among the city, checking out the docks and diving into the water, making his way in between the boat undetected, seeing that the archers around were more than aware than average, awaiting orders for patrols. He made his way to the lighthouse to the top and looking over the crowded area of Acre.
The average for war made Altair despise it even more as he leaped down into a haystack, jumping across the beams on the way to the Bureau. Altair knew the visit was to be short, seeing there was much to be done. Rafiq, busy as usual watched as Altair dropped from the roof, walking on through to the door.
"Greetings Altair, what news?" Rafiq asks.
"Al Mualim has named another. Calls himself Sibrand."
"I am familiar with the man. Newly appointed leader of the Knights Teutonic. He resides in the Benignant Porter, and runs Acre's Port."
"I'll start my work at once."
"Here are the places where you should focus your search; On the Docks East of here among the ships and their crews; At the chapel to the Northeast near the cross overlooking the port; And to the North in front of Saint John's Gate."
"This is most helpful." Altair spoke gratefully. "My thanks for the guidance."
"Altair..."
"Yes, Rafiq?"
"I owe you an apology."
"For what?" Altair was quite surprised.
"For doubting your dedication to our cause."
"No, it was I who aired-" Altair spoke back. "-I believed myself above the Creed. You owe me nothing."
"As you wish, my friend. Go in safety." Rafiq concluded, going about his work once more.
As Altair was about to climb out of the Bureau, he was once again stopped by a faint, distant memory. Instead it felt as though Alyssa had entered his thought. His eyes reflected upon her smile. Altair blinked a few times, knowing he had to focus more on what was going on around him.
He ran on through the roof tops again, seeing where he could start. His mind gave way to a generous offering as he did his normal heroic gestures to save those who were in trouble, seeing Vigilantes give way to more than necessary. It was always a help if he needed to slip past any guard.
Altair made his way to an area as he heard knights complaining on how bad Sibrand was pushing them during work. Sitting on a near by bench, he watched as the two argued for a bit until it became more clear what was being spoken about.
"It's gettin worse." The first one had said. "His paranoia knows no bounds."
"He's doubled our shifts, no one sleeps." The second responds.
"It wasn't so bad until he decided to make the port his home."
"He's planning something you see; that's why he came here."
"Planning what?"
They were cut off as Sibrand himself joined in on the conversation more than his normal rage. The other two began to cower in fear. "What's the meaning of this?" His voice raised upon questioning. "The two of you off in a corner, whispering, plotting?"
"Nothing of the sort!" The first one defends."We were only-"
"Only what? What secrets are you keeping?" Sibrand asked.
"You misunderstand." The second speaks up.
"Damned Assassins, they're probably here right now, watching us." Sibrand stated, he turned to the crowds walking by. "Do you find this amusing, DO YOU? While laugh while you can!" He turned back to the two knights. "Double the patrols!" He demanded.
"Which ones?"
"ALL OF THEM!"
"But we don't have the men!"
"FIND THEM! Call our Knights from the field if you must."
Sibrand left and the knights scurried off, scared of what he might do next. Altair stood, watching as they left and avoided the knights around him where were patrolling. Time was being limited as Altair knew there was very little yet. He quickly followed after Sibrand for a bit before splitting up to find more information.
Altair knew that this wouldn't be the beginning of more knights walking among the crowds, searching for people like him to push around, asking why a man like him would be doing what he was. He saved a few more people, making sure not to make a big enough scene as his senses guided him to the rooftops and back to Rafiq. Altair dropped on down, knowing his heart was racing. That it would only be a matter of time.
"Greetings Brother, how fares your search?"
"I've learned all there is to know about my target."
"Share your knowledge with me then."
"Sibrand is said to be consumed by fear. Driven mad by the knowledge that his death approaches. He has sealed the docks district and now hides within waiting for his ship to arrive."
"This will make things dangerous. I wonder how it is that he learned of your mission."
"The men I've killed, they're all connected. Al Mualim warned me that word of my deeds has spread among them."
There was a feather placed upon the counter. "Be on your guard, Altair."
Taking the feather, he was reassuring Rafiq. "Of course Rafiq, but I think it will be of my advantage. Fear will weaken him."
Altair walked himself into the other room, preparing for his mission. He let the warmth of the sun whelm his thoughts, relaxing him. Knowing it was for the future, Altair gave thought to Alyssa and knowing that things were to change with the circumstances given. There was something in the back of his head wanting to spend time with her. As if to tell her he wanted that time.
Heading out to the docks after letting himself to relax, he ran through the roof tops, getting rid of those necessary before being detected, he hopped over gate, making his way to a crowd that appeared to be gathered around Sibrand and a priest. The priest was more than scared, knowing that Sibrand's paranoia drove him. Altair quickly blended with the crowd without being detected.
Sibrand was walking circles around the cowering priest. "You are mistaken Master Sibrand, I would never purpose violence against any man. A- And most certainly not against you."
"So you say." Sibrand proclaims. "Yet no one here will vouch for you. What am I to make of this?"
"I- I live a simple life my lord, as do all men of the cloth. It is not for us to call attention to ourselves."
"Perhaps." Sibrand considered. "Or perhaps they do not know you because you are not a man of God, BUT AN ASSASSIN!"
"Never!" The priest cried.
"You wear the same robes."
"If they cover themselves as we do, it is only to instill uncertainty and fear. You must not give in."
"Are you calling ME a coward? Challenging my authority? Or are you perhaps hoping to turn my own Knights against me?"
"No no no no no, I- I do not understand why you are do- doing this to me. I've done nothing wrong."
There was a small laugh from Sibrand. "I don't recall accusing you of any wrong doing. Which makes your outburst rather odd. Is it the presence of guilt that COMPELLS A CONFESSION?"
"But I confess nothing!" The priest was trying to convince.
"Ahh! Defiant to the very end."
"What do you mean?"
"William and Garnier were too confident and they paid for this with their lives. I WON'T make the same mistake. IF YOU TRULY ARE a man of God, then surely the creator will provide for you. Let HIM stay my hand."
"You've gone mad!" The priest answers. "Will none of you come foreword to stop this?"
There was movement in the crowd, Altair focused, now seeing Alyssa. It was only so ironic that she would appear of all times, especially now. She pushed her way through, seeing that it was to change the course of events that they were heading in. Alyssa emerged from the crowd, standing over the priest. Sibrand backed up, now seeing her.
"Stop this! There is no Assassin!" She yelled.
Altair stared in grave fear, not knowing what Sibrand would do. There was a small reaction from him. With the look that blended, Sibrand grabbed Alyssa, clenching her throat as if to quiet her. No one else said nothing.
"He is clearly poisoned by his own fear! Compelled to see enemies when none exist."
"Seems the people share my concern!" Sibrand threw Alyssa to the ground. "What I do, I do for Acre!"
Alyssa got to her feet as if to know that events would take place next. There was a swift move made by her as she disarmed Sibrand. The priest was pulled to his feet having him run. Alyssa locked eyes to her enemy. Sibrand laughed, taking out the bow and arrow, aiming it at her head. There was no fear in her eyes, only hatred.
Hesitation only lasted for a moment as Altair grabbed a throwing knife, aiming for the bow. As a result, people ran off, now scared of what battle was taking place. Alyssa was soon facing those around her as Altair joined in to face Sibrand.
"Good timing." Alyssa commented.
"Why did you get involved the way you did? You're endangering yourself!" Altair says, drawing his sword.
"The man didn't deserve to die Altair! He's an innocent."
Two knight charged at them as Alyssa disposed of the quickly. They feel to the ground, their lives ending quickly. Altair pushed on to get Sibrand, knowing it would be the only time, seeing all hell broke loose. Sibrand fled as Altair ran after him.
Knowing this would leave Alyssa behind, at this point there was no choice. Altair placed away his sword, preparing to draw for his hidden blade. With swift movements, Altair pounced on Sibrand, tackling him to the ground, cutting his target's throat.
"Please, don't do this." Sibrand begged.
"You are afraid." Altair realized.
"Of course I am afraid."
"But you'll be safe now, held in the arms of your God."
"Have my Brothers taught you nothing? I know what waits for me, for all of us."
"If not your God, then what?"
"Nothing, nothing waits, and that is what I fear."
"You don't believe."
"How could I, given what I know? What I've seen? That treasure was the proof."
"Proof of what?"
"That this life is all we have."
"Linger awhile longer then. Tell me of the part you were to play."
"A blockade by sea. To keep the fool Kings and Queens on sending reinforcements. Once we, once we..."
"Conquered the Holy Land?"
"Freed it, you fool. From the teary of faith."
"Freedom? You work to over throw cities, control men's minds. Murdered any who stood against you."
"I followed my orders. Believing in my cause... same as you."
Altair watched as he died, giving him a moment as he whipped the blood on the feather given. There was a reminder of Alyssa in the back of his head. He had only a second to react before heading to the docks where Alyssa would be. There was no sign of her anywhere. Dead knights laid on the ground as if to be defeated.
Panic formed in his head, not knowing where or if Alyssa was all right. Altair took off running, knowing that it was only so much he could do at this point. Breathing deep, he ran through the streets, pushing through crowds. There was nothing that could stop his thought on finding her. He kept looking in all directions, feeling helpless.
There was a call for him if not a moment later. Alyssa was now standing if not a few feet from him. She ran up to him, hugging him. He kept her close. Don't do that again, do you understand? You had me worried. Getting yourself involved in such ways will endanger you and...
Altair placed his hand over her stomach, she smiled, kissing him. Come on, let's go.
Alyssa gave a look around as he made it clear that there was no time to leave at the moment. He made his way back to Rafiq, seeing that bells needed to clear before making any other moves. Alyssa stayed upon the roof, as the usual to wait for Altair.
"Altair, you've caused quite a stir."
"I have done as requested. Sibrand's life is ended."
"So it is, so it is."
"You should ride for Masyaf and inform Al Mualim of your success."
"Yes, I should return and speak to him. Of this and other things."
"Is everything all right my friend?"
"You seem.... distant."
"it's nothing Rafiq, just a lot on my mind."
"Talk to me then. Let me have it."
"I need to make sense of this myself first, but thank you for the offer."
"It is the men you kill, isn't it? You feel something for them."
"How?"
"Ahh, my friend, you are not meant to enjoy these grim tasks. Regret, uncertainty, sympathy. This is to be expected."
"I should not fear these feelings?"
"You should embrace them. They are what keep you human."
"What if I'm wrong? What if these men are not meant to die? What if they mean well? Misguided perhaps, but pure in motive."
"I am but a Rafiq, Altair. Such things are beyond me. Perhaps Al Mualim can0 help you to make sense of it."
"Yes, perhaps. Thank you Rafiq."
"It is my pleasure to served as one as skilled as you."
Altair climbed the wall to see Alyssa leaning up on the nearest building, trying to get some rest. There was little time to talk as he placed her on his back, heading out of Acre on his horse. He made sure she was in front of him, seeing that he would have a better advantage.
The ride on through to Damascus was quiet. Alyssa was assisted to her feet, now being mindful of her equipment. She placed the equipment of hers, along with what appeared to be Sibrand's sword next to the usual spot on the fireplace.
Altair gave a sigh, knowing he had to leave for Masyaf, but the good side in all this was being able to come back to Damascus to spend a moment's time with her. With a light kiss, Altair left Damascus as soon as he had arrived.
Heading on to Masyaf, Altair made a swift entrance as Al Mualim was working as usual. "Come in Altair, what news?"
"Another of the named is put to rest."
"Then it would appear that you work is nearly complete and your status restored."
"A question Master, if I may."
"Ask and I will answer."
"Why these men? Jubair and Sibrand."
"Ahh, don't you see? They pave the way for change. Ensure threats both old and new are not given cause to intervene."
"To weaken them is to weaken our enemy. I suppose that makes sense."
"For these men to continue their work, our work would be quickly be undone."
"How is that? We've caused them much grief."
"We strike at the arms, yes. But this is a hydra that you face. That is quick to replace what is severed."
"Then we should lop off its head and be done with it."
"Soon, soon. We are close. Only one more man stands between us and our ultimate goal."
"I will return to my work. The sooner this last man dies, the sooner I might face our true enemy."
"Before you go." Al Mualim stopped Altair. "I have a question for you."
"Of course."
"What is the truth?"
"We place faith in ourselves. We see the world the way it really is and hope that all mankind will see the same."
"What is the world then?"
"An illusion, one we can rather submit to as most to or transcend."
"What is it to transcend?"
"To recognize nothing is true, and that everything is permitted. That laws arrive not from divinity, but reason. I understand now that our Creed does not command us to be free, it commands us to be wise."
"Do you see now why the Templars are a threat?"
"Where as we would dispel the illusion, they would use it to rule."
"Yes, to reshape the world more pleasing to them. That is why I sent you to steal their treasure. That is why I keep it locked away. And that is why you kill them. So as long as one survives, so too does their desire to create a new world order. Take your equipment, seek out this last man. With his death, Robert de Sable will at last be vulnerable."
"It will be done."
"Safety and peace upon you, Altair."
With that said, Altair grabbed his back blade, tucking away the other one for Alyssa's use. Altair made his way back to Damascus and into Dabir's place. Alyssa was curled on the couch as he placed his equipment where Alyssa's was. He then cuddled next to her. She turned towards him, letting his warmth welcome her. They fell asleep quickly, knowing there was a long day ahead of them tomorrow.