Chapter 12 - Justice Taken
Jerusalem was packed more than usual. I knew it was because of the funeral that was to take place soon. Templars brushed passed me without thought, more focused on that around him. Had I done dressing myself as one of Talal's men was more likely a downfall. I kept my head down, knowing with events to pass, I was better falling back on this.
I tightened my hand around what used to be my broken arm, thinking of everything that had happened before. Knowing I was returning back to my normal self, I knew that there was one person I wanted to see, Malik. Even if it meant I was to be reported, things were wrapping up and I found a sort of relief knowing that there wasn't much for looking the other way on my decision now.
I scaled the rooftops, looking back at the church I focused on my last visit, but I wanted to at least talk with Malik and see if he can be convinced of Altair. I hopped on down through my destination, dropping down after seeing the symbol.
"Today is quite the busy day, if you are looking into-" Malik stopped talking as he turned his attention towards me. "Alyssa? What in God... What in God's name are you doing here? I thought Altair sent you home, or so he says."
"I have come back, I have been here for a while, but it's not what I am here for. I am here to see if I can talk to you about Altair."
"I hear he is changing, it's fine-"
"Not on that, I need you to look out for him and make sure he does his job. I need to get a few things done. When there is more time I will explain. For now I need you to head on down to Solomon's Temple, you will find what you seek there. I also want to point out that he is not a mad man, you must under.. understand.." I pushed myself onto the nearby counter.
Malik reached over to me, seeing a pale look form over my face. "You don't look so well..."
"Yeah, thanks for pointing that out. You try and go through what I have been through on top of which I know you wouldn't believe. Oh.. ok... I'm gonna.." I didn't finish the thought as I sat against the familiar wall I ended up before. I sunk against the wall, beginning to cry and letting my emotions collapse.
I wanted to question everything. Malik rounded himself to where I was. "Take your time, you look like you haven't slept for weeks."
"Malik, I need to tell you something. As for a request. I am carrying... Altair's kid."
Malik's eyes grew. "Well, I never thought to him being with someone like you, but it's about time he has a family. That's just me I suppose."
"So much has happened for everyone. I just wanted to stop hiding, I know some of the Assassins know, nothing stays secret."
Malik took a few steps back, sighing, then nodding. "It's why I am not too surprised to see you. Questioning why you are here, hang on..." Malik got nervous, he looked on the counter for something, pushing what he was working on away. There appeared to be a crumpled piece of paper he now represented to me. "That was sent not too long ago. They are suspicious. When did you come back?"
"I have been in and out, but I stay more in Damascus for the moment, but why?"
"As you know, one member has threatened..."
"How did you know that?" I was trying to piece many things together.
"Faysal, he was here. I was suspicious too, but needed to... well, you proved that."
"Malik I need you to let go of the hatred, but now that..."
"You're thinking of leaving? Be careful and come back here if you need anything."
"Not just that Malik... I need to ask you something."
"Yes, what is it?"
"Well, knowing you. I was wondering if I could depend on you on my hour of need?"
There were silent stares exchanged. I was wondering if there was anything I did wrong with asking the question. There was a small smile from him. A nod from him once more. I shot up with joy, knowing his response was wonderful news on my part. I gave him a hug, holding him tightly.
"Thank you so much. I owe you for this, but I still have a while before anything happens with Ezio."
"Ezio? You already named him?" Malik was now wondering. "Does Altair know that you decided to name the child that? It should be his decision as well."
I let go of Malik, smiling. "The name, it's Eagle... The meaning of his name."
"Secondly, how do you know it's going to be a boy?"
"I just know..." I concluded the topic. "Malik, you must not tell-"
"I would be breaking rules, but for Altair's sake, I know you are doing the right thing. So is he, again as I said, you are invited back here."
"Great, now I will be back."
"Wait, tell me what's going on." Malik was eager to know more.
I took the time to explain what has been going on and with the jobs Altair had did. I also explained about the many book I found, but keeping on the down low on Mahir and the hallucinations. How I was to say anything more, I felt limited. Time quickly passed, knowing that I was more focused on something else. There was one thing, if not two I wanted to wrap up. My thoughts were focused on Richard, knowing that he was my top priority. I needed to get that done before Altair would meet up with him, making sure no wrong decisions would be made.
Don't forget to go back to the church, they must be wondering. I knew the voice, nodding.
I made my way out of Jerusalem, hopping on the nearest horse, riding off on to Arsuf. The horse galloping was lulling my senses. I gave a look around me, knowing that this would more likely be my last time, seeing that the first game was now ending as soon as it started. I gazed up to the sky, clear, beautiful. We can never see anything this beautiful, this breath taking anymore.
I clicked my tongue on my teeth, urging the horse to get to my destination faster. It was more silent near Arsuf than the last few times I was here. Many of Richard's men met with my eyes as they let me though once more. I was then stopped by one of the knights once more.
"I am here to see King Richard."
"It's you once again, I am surprised to see you back once more."
"I am not in the mood right now. I must see him for practical reasons."
The knight signaled to me, allowing me to pass on through. I hopped off the horse, heading on through to Richard. He greeted me with slight acknowledgment. There was a hand movement for me to follow him. I started smelling the smoke, I saw many knights fighting under their loyalty.
"This war is getting no where, we are constantly everyday, many victims to the crime."
"Things won't look any better for a while. Everyone fighting for their God, their religion. I tend not to get involved with such things if I can."
Richard gave an interesting reaction. "You yet work for an assassin..."
There was a look that I exchanged, as if there was a bitter taste in my mouth. "Assassins aren't bad you know... Ok, maybe they can be, but if you ever considered looking closer in their work, perhaps you could see how they are. They remove those who are corrupt and overwhelmed with power. Assassins do things for the better... Yet framed for everything else."
"You do not bare the mark." Richard pointed, lifting my left hand. "People are hunted I hear, if someone on the outside knows of the Creed."
"My situation is unique, so if you may Richard, I am back for more information. As I said, Altair should be here soon. I believe you know what you are doing. We had an agreement."
"Of course, but I still don't see what I will get out of helping someone like you out."
"If you would let me explain..."
"...Very well." Richard wasn't willing to accept my words, but knew that he had started seeing, or what he thought.
I felt stressed, knowing that at the least he wanted to believe, but for me it just wasn't enough. I turned around to walk away, instantly falling to my knees. It felt like a sea of waves moving around inside me. I placed my hand on my stomach. What the hell was that feeling...? I felt a chill and instantly felt sick once more. Oh great... not in front of him...
I threw up what was left of what I had ate before leaving Damascus. Richard approached me quickly. "Oh now I see..."
I gave huff, knowing I didn't want to talk on my situation. "I'm sorry, I am not myself."
I got myself up, knowing it was more than pointless to continue. I gave a little weakness, Richard tempted to help me. I pushed him away, knowing I wanted to try and do it myself. I only realized I was making it worse. He had proceeded with what he was trying to tempt before. My right arm was placed around him as he assisted me to walk.
"Perhaps you should take it easy. I can tell you haven't been able to settle."
I was assisted to walk into a nearby tent. I noticed by now that something wasn't right, I started feeling more out of place, as if to slip from time itself. Richard had placed me against a solid surface, sitting himself with me. Where should I start with you?
"You tried negotiating with Saladin?" I knew I didn't want to say it in an accent, nor was I in any condition to talk straight.
"Yes, but there is something that bothers me. Why don't you talk more of yourself? Does it bother you that someone like you do not belong in a place, in a time such as ours. How do you adapt?"
"I actually look upon this as a history lesson, really. Many scholars have lost their information on the Crusades, many texts even burned about the Assassins I have been searching for years. In my time, many make reparations of what they believed happened. So many games take place in such these days sadly. Making many Legends of the Middle Ages in a Myth only what seems made up. I had an interest since I was a kid on the Middle Ages, always trying to find out more information."
"Is your world any better even after these Holy Wars?"
"I am sorry Richard, but no one cares anymore, really. We fight in a battle that's been lasting too long... It's so depressing to see such things. I am sick of it, I want to see an end to it. I know that this war will be going on for a while, and I know they will never stop. It's human nature to fight for your leaders, your kings, what you believe in, everything. Times are just as bad even without the advancements, presidents. I often think of no reason behind such things."
"You think Assassins are better. In what way?"
"They remove those who think higher of themselves, but they limit themselves to many, such as yourself. You have a while before things get rough. I know that I may sound out there or unbelievable, but it is how it works. Even though I keep saying to Altair that I shouldn't be involved, seeing I can change the future."
"Then why do you get involved?"
"Everything happens for a reason."
Richard could tell I was living by those words. "Indeed, fate has a strange way with things."
I stood up, Richard was quick to his feet. "This may be the last time we meet. I made a meeting with someone and I can not keep them waiting."
"Hang on, I would like to give you something, that way my men do not attack you on sight." From where I was standing, he attended himself to a wooden table near by. He picked up what appeared to be a cape with a symbol, his symbol of the golden lion. "One of my most honored knights once wore this. I want you to have it."
"Well.. I.. thank you.." I couldn't say much.
Richard placed it around my shoulders. "Even though you calm to be an assassin, I know that for some reason I can..."
"Trust me? I know you hesitate on those words. Thank you again King Richard."
"Farewell Alyssa, we may not meet again."
I bowed. "Farewell my Lord, I shall take my leave."
I gained the strength to at least hop on my horse, beginning my ride back on to Damascus to meet with Altair. I was now willing to seek more answers, to ask him if he would want to travel to Jerusalem with me. I know that he, like myself, would want to talk to the Priest that Mahir once knew. I watched as the dust kicked from the horse's hooves, I was capable of going into a full gallop. It wasn't a moment later when I felt something sharp stick into my body. Another sharp pain was there within seconds, this time hitting my back shoulder.
I slid off my horse, not wanting to think on the pain. I felt myself panic as I saw someone familiar. "Hello Alyssa, I thought I made it clear. Too bad Al Mualim wishes to speak with you."
"I am only doing what is right!" I yelled back.
"By making sure Altair doesn't get killed, I can see that."
"What? This was..."
"Of course, even that fool Mahir knew. Too bad he died trying to protect what legacy Altair had left."
"Oh my god..." I grew silent. I was picked up, my hands force tied behind my back.
Faysal tightened a rope around my hands. I knew that if I was to fight this, it would only take so long before everything was lost. I closed my eyes, trying to relax. Mahir... why didn't you tell me? I was forced to walk, I didn't hear a response back from him. I was forced to walk in the direction of Masyaf, there was no choice. I changed my mind, knowing that I wanted out before it was too late. I knew that by now I was going to die, my instincts yelling at me to escape.
I tried to fight back by doing a quick elbow jab. Faysal blocked the attack, throwing me to the rock that was under me. "Don't test me!" He took his back blade, slamming it into my right thigh. I screamed in pain, not knowing if Ezio was damaged. There was a smile from him. He once more took his blade, slamming it into my other thigh.
I couldn't do a thing, now being that I was unable to fight back. My heart raced as it sank. I cried, not knowing if I should have continued on the way I was. The pain overwhelmed me. I only knew that by now I wanted to get out. I wanted to make sure that my child would be all right. Faysal sheathed his blade, kicking me in the stomach, forcing me to keel over with pain. I had crossed my arms over my body to protect what was left of my baby. Faysal lifted me up by my neck, spitting in my face then socking me pretty hard.
My gave in my strength, pretending to pass out for the sake of Ezio. I was given another punch in the face. I tasted the blood that dripped from my nose. He picked me up by my throat, having me force open my eyes as a grim smile formed. I struggled, trying to breath. He held me to the tip of my toes, making me look like a ballerina. I couldn't do much to ease my pain or to work around it.
Oh god no, please no more... please... My voice was squeaking, I didn't want to endure much more than what was already given to me. Ezio, oh god Ezio...
I was placed on my feet, my hands were locked behind my back as a rope tied around my wrists. "I will spare you." I heard Faysal announce to me. "Al Mualim has plans for you."
I felt myself grow semi conscious, knowing that there was the world around me, but I knew by now I was slipping away. I didn't have the strength the to fight back. Am... I finally defeated knowing I shouldn't have assisted Altair...?
"Come in my student, we have much to discuss."
Altair stepped on through, knowing that there was another person to take down and no longer be questioned. Then maybe then he could ask what he may on The Creed's whereabouts on Alyssa.
"We are close Altair. Robert de Sable is now all that stands in between us and victory. It is his mouth that gives the orders. His hand gives the gold. With him dies the knowledge of the Templar Treasure and any threat that might pose."
Yeah like you. There was a glare and stressful sigh from Altair. "I still don't understand how a simple bit of treasure can cause so much chaos."
"The Piece of Eden is Temptation given form. Merely look what it's done to Robert. Once he tasted of its power, the thing consumed him. It is not a dangerous weapon to be destroyed, but a tool. One that would help him realize his life's ambition."
"He dreamed of power then."
"Yes and no. He dreamed and still dreams, like us, of peace."
"But this is the man that saught to see the Holy Land consumed by war!" Altair seemed more convinced of his own words by now.
'No Altair, how can you not see when you were the one that opened my eyes to this?"
"What do you mean?"
"What do he and his followers want? A world in which all mean are united. I do not despise his gold, I share it, but I take issue with the means. Peace is something to be learned, to be understood, to be embraced." Al Mualim pretended to be enlightened.
"He would force it." By now Altair was more than on his toes.
"And rob us of our free will in the process."
"Strange, to think of him in this way."
"Never harbor hate for your victims, Altair. Such thoughts are poison and will cloud your judgment." Al Mualim spoke with reminder.
"Could he not be convinced then? To end his mad quest?" Altair was also directing towards Al Mualim by this time.
"I spoke to him in my way through you. What was each killing if not a message? But he has chosen to ignore us."
"Then there is only one thing left to do."
"Jerusalem is where you faced him first, it's where you will find him now. Let this final offering lend you strength. Go Altair, it's time to finish this."
With that Altair was once again given his sword once obtained. He knew that his old one would now be passed to Alyssa, once again eager to get more. I know she loves these kind of things. I know I will be dealing with you later... There wasn't much of a look to give Al Mualim. Altair made sure the rest of his equipment was secure as he headed back for the gates of Masyaf.
Hoping back on his horse and going into the direction of Damascus, he couldn't help but to feel despair. Wait.. just wait.. He heard a voice telling him. Altair knew there was no time. He rushed off to what now was considered a temporary home. He opened the front door, instantly with the feeling that no one was home.
You were supposed to be here... Altair didn't feel a receiving end. Alyssa... where are you?
There was the sound of footsteps behind him. The hidden blade was soon drawn, now at the neck of his intruder. "Altair, it's me!" His eyes widened. There wasn't a settle response. "Has there been any news from Alyssa? She said she was going to be back."
"Edward, mind your own business ok? It's not like I have enough problems." Altair was talking as if though he was more sour.
Altair placed his old sword where it belonged. He looked over the equipment slowly, observing what Alyssa took. The basic sword and old back blade were missing. Edward respected the silence for the moment.
"Edward..." Altair spoke up. "Knowing Alyssa's a priority, I know I can not stop her on my terms. She's the type to get herself into trouble. She depends on herself because if it's not done, she will make sure."
"Like a born by blood adventurer." Edward joked.
"I know that Alyssa is the type to run off, but I have a job and you know that I can't be detected."
Edward nodded at the words. "Don't worry, you go do what you need to, but where should I meet you?"
"I will be in Jerusalem by then, I need to hunt down Robert."
"Take care then, I will contact you when I can."
Altair felt a lump in his throat and a feeling he was soon regretting. It was as if he knew it wasn't to end well. He followed Edward out as they parted ways. Altair hopped back on his horse, heading on through to Jerusalem. A bad shiver shot down his back halfway through, stopping before proceeding on through. The horse reared a bit as Altair pulled for the horse to stop.
Altair's eyes scanned over the barren desert. Something seemed out of alignment for him as he gave a sigh to his disposition. He turned his horse back towards Jerusalem, galloping off before it got too late. His mind couldn't settle off the facts that nothing was right. It was just even more as there were many Templars that gathered for a major event.
Altair made his way through, keeping his head down as long as he possibly could. Scaling the rooftops again, he made his way on through to Malik. There was a different aura as he had arrived, Malik actually smiled as he entered. There was yet a question with calm.
With a slight nod from Altair, Malik spoke. "Safety and Peace, Altair."
"Upon you as well, Brother." Altair returned.
"Seems fate has a funny way with things."
"So it's true then. Robert de Sable is in Jerusalem?"
"I have seen the knights myself."
"Only misfortune follows that man." Altair gritted at his teeth, feeling the presence of Mahir. "If he is here it's because he intends ill. I won't give him the chance to attack."
"Do not let vengeance cloud your thoughts, Brother. We both know, no good could come of that."
"I have not forgotten, you have nothing to fear. I do not seek revenge, but knowledge."
"Truly you are not the man I once knew."
"My work has taught me many things, revealed secrets to me, but there are still pieces to this puzzle I do not possess."
"What do you mean?" Malik saw that there was more to what Altair was trying to figure out.
"All the men I laid to rest have worked together. United by this man. Robert has designs upon this land. This much I know for certain. But how and why, when and where... these things remain out of reach."
"Crusader and Searecens working together?"
"They are none of these things, but something else." There was hatred in Altair's voice. "Templars."
"The Templars are part of the Crusader Army."
"Or so they would like King Richard to believe. No, their only alligence is to Robert de Sable in some mad idea that they will stop the war."
"It's been a strange day." Malik commented.
"You have no idea Malik-" Altair was now seeing he was talking like Alyssa. "-but tell me where they have been seen. I should be after him before he slips away."
"Three places I can say for certain. West of here near both a guard tower and hospital; To the southwest at the church of the Holy Siparco. See what you can learn. I will do the same."
"I will be quick as I can." Altair reassured.
"Stay safe my friend." Malik said back, returning to work he was concentrating on before.
Altair went about his own business, guessing how Alyssa would handle this. There was something that just wasn't quite right. He climbed to the rooftops once more. A movement only so settle caught his attention. It was a white blur of what appeared to be a person. Altair, follow me... there is something I need to tell you...
Altair recognized right away that it was Mahir's voice. He followed after him without hesitation. Being that he was now chasing a ghost, Mahir was light on his toes. Altair felt compelled, seeing he was easily falling back. It wasn't too difficult to see the trail Mahir was leaving as Eagle Vision blended with his sights.
Seeing that Mahir's body then turned gold, it was as if he was an assassination target. Altair watched as Mahir disappeared, dropping into the crowd below. Altair charged through, tackling those in his way. Mahir, wait. What do you need?
Get to the church Altair, come on. As Mahir gained speed, passing on through to the front doors of the church that was all too familiar. Looking around, Altair noticed that it was the church that Alyssa was at before. Mahir on the other hand had disappeared, Altair was more than clueless at what he was doing.
"So you have returned..." Altair flinched, if not jumped a little. There was no answer from him, at least while he was trying to word it without sounding like a mad man. "You look like you have seen the living dead, child."
"Seems like I just had. Father, you claimed to know Mahir, correct?"
"You have blocked out those memories? I was his what you prefer to call his trust accomplice. I have interacted with you many times. You don't remember?"
Altair shook his head. "No, I'm sorry."
"Knowing you and who you associate with, I can not say here. I am surprised you even show your face at all."
Another questioning look from Altair. "I know of the Templars, but what is something I should be keeping my nose out of?"
"Today is the funeral of Majd Addin. Didn't you hear? I mean, after all it is your fault." The priest appeared to give a laugh. "In my own opinion, he got what he deserved."
"What else do you want to tell me besides that? I don't like to waste my time."
The priest held up his hand for Altair to stop before continuing to feel enraged. "My child, you came running in like the world around you was falling apart. Besides, where is the one that was with you before?" There was no answer again. "If you want to discuss other matters, perhaps it would be right to mention what Mahir trusted me with?"
"Go ahead and speak of it then. Perhaps I can then go about my work." Bitter words reflected off Altair, he was growing more impatient.
"Very well..." There was a deep sigh. "I thought I would never see you again after knowing you were having a hard time with losing the one you love and your companion you treated like your own blood. Mahir wanted to give you the message he left for me because..." There was careful thought to his words. "He knew he wouldn't come back. Death was him impending end and he knew. He also knew you were his closest family."
"I would rather not go into detail. I was only of age when I saved him a while back. I wasn't even recognized amongst my rank. Get to your point."
"Your Master has planned for your death since the beginning. You were becoming more "independent" for that risk, your Master knew more people had intentions following you. He wanted you gone, perhaps out of fear knowing you knew too much. Mahir was there, they didn't know he had overheard. This place was his only lead at the time, so he used the information given to find out about what the High Priest would call "The Piece of Eden". Mahir never wanted you to know, but we also accepted him for his knowledge, seeing that there was more to it than others were seeing."
"The High Priest caused him to almost die, even then he stayed loyal to your cause, even if you don't follow the Christian God."
"Indeed Altair." There was a smile from the priest. "Many believed, even the High Priest himself that he was doing God's work. Even if it involved murder. We knew that even from his prospective, that peace can not be preached or forced. That mankind fights and continues to fight for what they believe to be peace. Pointless wars like these Crusades change the face of everything."
"We do not do God's work, we try and benefit mankind for the better, even if many don't see our reason, we can not force it, so instead, we take care of those who rise with power. Those who think themselves above others will only cause rebellion."
"You have changed since Mahir's death I see."
"My work has taught me many things this passed while."
"Wait here, there is something I wish to give you."
The priest had disappeared rather quickly, leaving Altair to his empty thoughts. Why wouldn't you tell me such a thing. You were all I had left... He turned towards what Mahir used to pray to, drawing his sword in silence. Altair sat the the near bench, placing his sword into the floor in front of him. You did well saying you worked for the High Priest, but keeping your true intentions to yourself. I never knew...
There was a presence that soon joined Altair. You shouldn't blame yourself. I could have told you, but I had the choice. If I didn't do what I did, you wouldn't be here right now. Alyssa wouldn't be here either... The spirit of Mahir once more sat next to Altair. I had lost so much to the Templars already, my sacrifice was only so little.
You had a family. Altair wanted to scream. You had a child. Even if those you loved died in Gaza, you passed on what was left of your legacy. Your wife loved you... she was devastated when she heard of your death. It would be the last time anyone would hear from her. If you didn't...
Altair, I loved my family, my life, what I had. I just couldn't live with the guilt of knowing Robert de Sable was still alive, knowing what he did to Gaza, to my family, my friends. You know as well as I do that I had my mind set since I joined the Creed. Even if falling in love after the tragedy when I was going after Robert was part of my journey.
You could have live Mahir. Everything set like chess pieces, you were a pawn's sacrifice. Altair heard footsteps join in, Mahir once again fading into the background.
"This was his mother's. He knew that it would be taken good care of once it would go into the right hands." The priest held out a necklace. An old feather was tied to it, Altair saw it was a feather of the red tailed hawk. "You are the only person that would understand, so he has said. I never understood why you..."
Altair swiped it from the priest, not making any eye contact. "It was a talisman he would always wear, knowing his mother would always have it with her. I never truly understood, but I would do the same thing if it involved my family." Gripping the necklace and nodding at the priest, there was a moment passed.
"God bless you and the Creed." The priest said. "Go in Safety and Peace."
"I will see if I can see you more often, perhaps when things calm down." Altair insisted. "I have a job to do."
The priest placed a hand on Altair's right shoulder. "I know you do not believe in the phrase, but do God's work, do it for Mahir. Bring peace back to these lands."
Altair gave thought to the priest's words, nodding upon his departure. He once more made his way through the doors, upon the streets. There was more than just a sense of purpose now for Altair, but a commitment. He knew that through this, the past would be settled and Mahir finally placed to rest. Altair looked at the talisman, placing it around his own neck, tucking it under his robes to make sure no one would see.
Climbing to the rooftops and heading back to Malik, Altair knew there was more than the necessary information, capable of placing itself back together. The Templars wanted to make the illusion that there was nothing wrong, perhaps to state a point. Either way it was bad news for getting into power over the Holy Land. It was most unsettling for Altair.
Dropping on down, he now saw as Malik gave another glance to his entrance. "You have the scent of success about you, Brother."
"I've learned much about our enemy."
"Share your knowledge then. Let us see what can be done with it."
"Robert and his Templars walk the city. They have come to pay the respects of Majd Addin. They'll attend his funeral. Which means so will I."
"What is this that the Templars will attend his funeral?" Malik was now growing more curious.
"I have yet to define their true intentions, though I'll have a confession in time. The citizens themselves are divided, many call for their lives. Still others insist they are here to parley; to make peace."
"Peace?" There was disbelief.
"I told you, the others I have slain have said as much to me." Altair snapped back.
"That would make them our allies-" Malik found the irony in his words. "-and yet we kill them."
"Make no mistake, we are nothing like these men. Though their goal sounds noble, the means by which they achieve it are not, at least that's what Al Mualim told me." Altair couldn't find himself to be too convincing.
"So what is your plan?"
"I will attend the funeral and confront Robert."
"The sooner the better." The feather necessary was placed on the table. Altair took it with some hesitation. "Fortune favor your blade, Brother."
"Malik, before I go there's something I should say." Altair spoke up, finding the courage while thinking of Mahir's situation.
"Be out with it." Malik seemed to grow impatient,
"I've been a fool."
"Normally I would make no argument, but what is this? What are you talking about?" It had gotten Malik's attention with very little surprise.
"All this time, I never told you I was sorry; too damn proud. You lost your arm because of me; lost Kadar. You had every right to be angry."
"I do not accept your apology." Was an immediate answer.
"I understand." Altair bit his bottom lip by now.
"No, you don't. I do not accept your apology because you are not the same man you went with me into Solomon's Temple. And so you have nothing to apologize for."
"Malik." Altair wanted to speak through.
"Perhaps if I have not been so envious of you, I would have not been so careless myself. I'm just as much to blame."
"Don't say such things."
"We are one. As we share the glories of our victories, so too shall we share the pain of our defeat. In this way we grow closer. We grow stronger." Malik reasoned, compassion in his words.
"Thank you, Brother." Is all Altair could say in return.
"Rest if you need to Altair." Malik offered. "That you might be ready for what lies ahead."
Altair gave a nod, giving himself leave to be alone if not a while. He climbed the rooftops to let himself breathe the fresh air to clear his thoughts for a moment. What made him wonder is on where Edward was, perhaps something did happen. Altair knew that it was getting to complicated by this point. Perhaps everything that could go wrong was finally to the breaking point.
Edward knew something was wrong. Every path that Alyssa disappeared to lead me here. His eyes scoped around Masyaf, many assassins amongst themselves and their business. He pushed his way on through. There weren't many suspicions. Keeping his head down, Edward ran up ahead to the fortress. Nothing seemed out of place.
This doesn't seem exactly right. Does anyone know what's going on? He had more of the instinct to head up to Al Mualim's usual spot in the fortress. He was buried in his books. Nothing seems out of place...
"Hello Edward, what can I help you with?"
"I was seeing if there was anything I could do Master." Edward was tempting to cover his suspicion.
"Yes, there is..." Al Mualim confirmed. "Follow me with you will."
There was silence between them as Al Mualim lead him through the corridors of the fortress. There was tension that seemed too out of hand, many of the assassins turned their heads as they passed on through. Edward was lead into a secluded area, grabbed unnoticed by Al Mualim and thrown in. Al Mualim prevented Edward getting up, stomping down on his right leg.
"There is someone I would like for you to see before your departure." Al Mualim was now seeming to appear more confident in his words. He reached down grabbing Edward by his hair, making him look in the direction desired. "Look at Alyssa, helpless as she is..." There was even a bit of laughter.
Edward saw Alyssa, tied and unconscious. His eyes grew unsettled, seeing she was also in condition to get out of her current situation. She was gagged, making sure there wouldn't be any cries of help from her. "You bastard!" Edward said, struggling to his feet.
Al Mualim anticipated Edward now trying to attack. He was able to blocked his fists, countering the attack. Edward was socked in the stomach, giving a grunt of pain. "You can give up now, you were to betray the Creed. I can not allow you to get involved anymore."
The voices in the room awoke Alyssa. There was a painful awakening as she now grew dazed and confused. A concerned look formed as she noticed both Al Mualim and Edward. A smile formed across Al Mualim's face. He threw Edward to the floor, approaching Alyssa. She was forced to sit up as her voiced edged with pain in the back of her throat.
"You leave her alone. Haven't you already placed her through enough?" Edward was struggling to keep up with his breathing.
"I will let you see that even Templars who become Assassins are corrupt." Al Mualim ignored Edward's question, now slamming Alyssa against the wall.
Walking back over to Edward, Al Mualim forced him to his feet. There was a shocked breath from Alyssa as he had pulled out a knife then stabbing Edward in the throat. Edward took a deep breath, trying to embrace, bypass the pain.
"I will teach you not to ever interfere ever again." Al Mualim assured. He stabbed Edward again. "There is always someone like you who tries to be the hero..."
The brutal act continued as Edward's blood split to the floor and through Al Mualim's hands. The life from Edwards eyes soon grew dim as he stopped struggling. There was a quick slash from Al Mualim's blade as he set Edward's now limp body to the ground. Alyssa screamed through her best attempt.
Al Mualim approached Alyssa, forcing her to her feet. "You are to be bait. No doubt Altair will find out what is happening here."
Alyssa looked down into his robe. "The Piece of Eden is activated. You're brainwashing these people, stop!"
"Clever girl you are. I knew I should have killed you when I demanded it from even Altair himself, but even he has failed me." There was a sigh. "I am sorry child, but now it's time to end this."
There was a shock wave from the Piece of Eden as it reflected off the events. Al Mualim felt around him as he was now feeling the energy from the Piece. There was no second thought as he dragged Alyssa with him. Throwing her out into the garden, she gave little movement, knowing that she would soon end up like Edward.
Tear streamed down her face, knowing that the impact of Edward being murdered right in front of her was leaving more of an impact than imagined. Al Mualim set the Piece of Eden next to her. "I am surprised that it's not effecting you yet. I suppose it won't last for long..." There was a strange vibration from the Piece of Eden as it rolled towards Alyssa. Al Mualim raised and eye brow, soon leaving to go about his own business.
I gasped for breath, gasping upon the beauty of the Piece of Eden. I crawled towards it with valiant effort, now taking the Piece of Eden within my own hands. There was a wave of relief as another shock type wave surrounded me. Noises dulled around me and everything grew silent around me if not for the moment. I soon heard my own breathing.
"Rebecca, what's going on?" I heard a voice ask.
"I don't know Desmond. Seems like something is interfering from Altair's memory."
I grew confused. "Desmond... Desmond Miles...?"
"Whoa, Rebecca, what should I do?"
"I don't know, Desmond" Rebecca responded. "Why don't you try talking back? It's not part of the system, not even the program. The Animus can't recognize it."
"All right, I'll give it a shot." There was a minute of hesitation. "So, who is this? Who are you?"
Another wave from the Piece of Eden as I felt myself being transferred into darkness. "My name is Alyssa." I announce. "Please, I don't want any trouble. I already have caused too much."
"Can you tell me more on what's going on?"
"I don't know where to start." I was choking in my own tears by now.
I watched as the environment around me change. I was no longer in 1191 nor was I home at least for how long this was lasting. Blocks formed as a white matrix surrounded me. Red glow of glitch type boxes appeared in front of me. I saw as the white matrix began to surround me more and more blocks red and white appeared. I was able to move around, seeing as the ropes around my wrists disappeared.
I checked myself, seeing that I was standing already. I was also in no pain, giving me the head start to run at free will. I knew that at least something was leading me from the red boxes as I saw that was the only thing different. "Desmond? Are you here?" I called out, hoping for a response.
"Alyssa, over here! Can you identify they direction of my voice?"
There was more echoes of my own feet as I ran towards him. I also heard his feet running through the area, but I heard both of our feet as if they were all around. It was becoming misleading. I dropped on through, following the red beams and tiny blocks on the wall. I climbed up, using best of my abilities I learned from Altair.
"You will need to help me here. I'm not much of an Assassin... I'm still learning."
"Don't worry about that." I hear Desmond say as I now looked up. He placed out my hand, helping me up. "Oh my.. Alyssa oh man.. if only I knew..."
"What?" I was more than confused. "Why did you ask who I was then if you claim to know me?"
"I haven't heard your voice in a while, that's why... but I have never forgotten about you."
"You're not the only one to act like this." I say with more complication in my voice I was trying to place together.
Desmond pulled me close, holding on to me. "I don't know if you are real or if you know what's to happen. Altair has been taking it pretty hard too, but it good just to see you."
"Is there by any chance I can see you to understand what's going on?" I was capable of saying.
'I.. I don't know. Please don't leave..."
It was more than genuine. I couldn't understand completely what was going on. "The Piece of Eden Al Mualim reacted and now I am here. That's all I can say."
"So the events where we meet haven't happened yet.. Then maybe I should wait..."
"Wait? Wait on what?" I saw a glitch flash, Desmond disappeared. "Desmond!"
Everything around me started to disintegrate. I couldn't see anything soon enough, once again being in darkness, standing in the never ending abyss. I panicked, now seeing I was alone with more questions than answers. I felt the pain that Al Mualim inflict on me once more come back.
"Rebecca! Do something." I heard Desmond demand. "Damn it.. Alyssa if you can hear me, I need to tell you at least this, listen. You are more important than you think. You are just like me, but you will never know what's truly going on until Minerva speaks with you. The reason to everything happening to the way it is, you will get those answers! Don't give up! When you first meet me, remind me to keep with you... Things aren't always what they seem! The reason behind your ability to cross over from the gate into other worlds..."
I only sat there and once more keeled over in pain as Desmond's voice faded. I took a big breath as I noticed around me that I was sent back to 1191. The Piece of Eden wasn't in my hands anymore. Al Mualim had it with him again. He looked down at me like he was discouraged. As if I did something wrong, changing events.
Al Mualim placed away the Piece of Eden, picking me back up my the ropes that were now reappeared around my wrists. "It reacts to you. Why is that?" Al Mualim was interested but I tended not to say a word.
I felt Al Mualim grip my neck. I was given a bit of hope after knowing that Desmond was to meet me, but again with questions popping from my head. I watched as Al Mualim tied me to the pillar of the archways, as if he didn't want me into view, that I was to be found and lured. I closed my eyes, focused on the future and on Ezio.
Al Mualim appeared as if though he wasn't quite finished yet. "There is still one more thing..." He took the same blade he stabbed Edward with, pinning it in my right shoulder. "Don't bother calling for help you know it means his death, you know this well enough."
Altair was just getting more uneasy. There was no word from Alyssa or Edward. The assassination in Jerusalem took a turn. A woman...? Where is Robert? Altair headed straight to Malik. As he almost dropped through the roof, he got a flash through his eyes. He turned to now see what appeared to be an image of the past.
Mahir appeared, showing himself as a ghost, but to deliver a message or so Altair can tell. Altair, there's no time you have to get going. Your instincts are right. She's in danger. Richard will be able to help you more on this. Kill Robert and save Alyssa before it's too late!
Altair knew it was for the best seeing that things were starting to fall apart again, but he needed to talk to Malik, he knew this. Give me time, I need to tell someone. Malik will understand. Dropping on through the roof quite restless, Malik broke from his work. Altair was finally able to find words. "It was a trap!" He announced to Malik.
"I had heard the funeral turned to chaos. What happened?" Malik was more in tune than ever.
"Robert de Sable was never here. He sent another in his stead." Altair explained. "He was expecting me."
"You must go to Al Mualim."
"There's no time." Altair knew he was right, but with the emotions surging the way they were, he didn't know what to think or how to react. "She told me where he's gone, what he plans. If I return to Masyaf, he might succeed by then I fear we will be destroyed."
"We have killed most of his men." Malik commented back. "He can not hope to mount a proper attack. Wait... did you say "she"?"
"Yes it was a woman. Strange I know, but that's for another time. For now we must focus on Robert. We may have thinned his ranks, but the man is clever. He goes to plea his case to Richard and Salah al-Din. To unite them against the common enemy. Against US."
"Surely you are mistaken. This makes no sense. These two men would never..."
"Oh but they would!" Altair was saying back at Malik. "We have ourselves to blame."
"The men I have killed. Men on both sides of the conflict. Men important to both leaders. Robert's plan may be ambitious, but it makes sense and it could work."
"Look Brother, things have changed. You must return to Masyaf. We can not act without our Master's permission." Malik was more trying to convince. "It could compromise the Brotherhood. I thought... I though you have learned this."
"Stop hiding behind words Malik!" Altair was bound to scream by now. "You wield the Creed and its tenets like some shield. He's keeping things from us. Important things. You are the one who told me that we can never know anything, only suspect. Well I suspect this business with the Templars goes deeper. When I am done with Robert I will ride to Masyaf that we may have answers, But perhaps you can go now."
"I can not leave the city." Malik responded.
"Then walk amongst its people. Seek out those who served the ones I slew. Learn what you can. You call yourself perceptive, perhaps you can see something I could not."
"I don't know, I must think on this."
"Do as you must, my friend." Altair said in a calmer voice. "But it's time I ride for Arsuf. Every moment I delay, our enemy gets one step ahead of me."
"Be careful, Brother."
"I will be, I promise."
Once more upon the roof, Altair was compelled on what to do or even how to feel. The spirit of Mahir appeared once more, leading on to Altair's horse and pointing in the direction of Arsuf. Mahir, I can only do co much, I will attend to Alyssa soon. The ride was making him more uneasy knowing that her disappearance was more than what was taking place.
The smell of death surrounded Altair upon arrival to Arsuf. There was only so much he could do, but he couldn't help to think that being here first was a mistake. You know what is right. You know what she has done. You need to set things right. Altair was more than engaged, confused with such feelings. Looking towards Arsuf, he knew he wanted to kill Robert.
Just hang on Alyssa. I wish there was a way to do both. I will be there soon. Altair clicked the heels of his horse, wanting to get this over with. What will happen, knowing you may have to go home soon?