Summary: The Hidden Ones encounter a mysterious traveller from Azeroth. Recognising an opportunity to expand their influence and forge new alliances, they appoint Basim Ibn Ishaq, a devoted disciple, as their representative.
In a realm where ancient lore and magic are as tangible as the air he breathes, Basim must rely on his wits, skills, and newfound connections to fulfill his mission and unlock secrets that could change the fate of both worlds.
A Warcraft/Assassin's Creed Mirage crossover fic. Set before the events of Dragonflight and Valhalla.
Chapter 1 - Taneen
The sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in golden hues. A lone figure trudged through the endless sea of sand. His name was Amir El-Sayed, a traveller from a faraway land, now lost and parched in the vast, barren expanse.
The desert showed no mercy, stripping away his bearings and leaving him to the whims of fate. The Hidden Ones had found him lying unconscious, a mere shadow of life. They carried him back to their stronghold nestled among the mountains, The Alamut Fortress, where he would be nursed back to health.
The weeks that followed were a blur of recovery and gradual acclimatisation to a world so foreign yet oddly reminiscent of his own. Among them, Amir had found a particular friend. A disciple of the Hidden Ones named Basim Ibn Ishaq, whose keen intellect and magnetic presence resonated with him.
One evening, as they sat by the fire, the stars twinkling like a tapestry of light above them, Basim and Amir shared a moment of playful banter. The fire crackled and popped, casting a warm glow on their faces, the outside world a distant memory in the comfort of their blossoming friendship.
"You know, Basim," Amir began, his eyes reflecting the flickering flames, "ever since I was a child, I've dreamed of visiting the House of Wisdom in Abbasiyah. To be surrounded by such knowledge, such history...it must be awe-inspiring."
Basim, turning a stick in the fire, glanced up with a smile. "It is more than you can imagine, sadiqi. The House of Wisdom is a beacon of learning, a place where the mind can wander through centuries of thought and discovery."
Amir's face lit up at Basim's words, a spark of longing in his gaze. "Perhaps when I am fully recovered, you could take me there. It would be an honour to see it through the eyes of someone who appreciates its treasures as much as you do."
"I would be glad, Amir," Basim responded with a hint of nostalgia in his voice. "The House of Wisdom is not just a place of learning; it's a journey through time, through the very soul of knowledge. For a child growing up on the streets of Baghdad, it was everything to me - my sanctuary, my hope, and the window to a world I yearned to be a part of."
The days passed. Amir's desire to visit the House of Wisdom grew ever so restless. One morning, while they were sparring with each other, he turned to Basim with a hopeful look in his eyes. "Do you think your mentor would permit you to accompany me to Baghdad? I can think of no better guide and companion for such a journey."
Parrying a strike, Basim paused and considered his friend's request. The idea of returning to Baghdad, to the heart of civilisation, was indeed enticing. "I will speak to Roshan about it," he replied, sheathing his sword.
Basim kept to his promise and approached Roshan later that day. "Amir wishes to see the House of Wisdom, and he has asked me to join him," he said, his voice earnest.
However, his Master had had her reservations about Amir, this stranger who had appeared so suddenly and mysteriously in the desert. Yet, she could see Basim's eagerness, the yearning to step beyond the castle walls of Alamut and engage with the world once more. "It seems too soon, Basim. We know little of his origins or his intentions," she said, her tone measured.
"I am aware of that." Basim nodded, understanding her concerns. "But Amir has shown no ill will since his arrival. I believe him to be a man of learning, much like ourselves."
Roshan was silent for a moment. Finally she sighed, a decision reached. "Very well, Basim. You have my permission to accompany Amir to Abbasiyah. However, be vigilant. We must ensure he poses no threat to our Brotherhood."
"Thank you, Master," Basim replied. "I will be cautious and alert. I promise to represent the Hidden Ones with honour."
In the early hours of the next morning, Basim and Amir gathered their belongings and set out for Baghdad.
They were greeted by the sight of the House of Wisdom in the midst of a day of celebration the moment they arrived into the city on their camels. Scholars, philosophers, and intellectuals from across the region had gathered for a day of debates, discussions, and the sharing of knowledge. The air was abuzz with excitement, the exchange of ideas as vibrant as the colourful tapestries that adorned the walls.
As the day progressed, Basim noticed a shift in Amir's demeanour. His gaze often drifted towards the upper levels of the building, a mischievous glint in his eye. Sensing his friend's growing curiosity, Basim nudged him playfully. "What's on your mind, Amir?" he asked, intrigued.
Amir's smile was sly, his excitement barely contained. "Have you ever wondered what secrets lie in the restricted libraries of the upper levels, Basim? The forbidden knowledge that is kept away from prying eyes?"
Basim's instinctive reaction was one of caution. "Those areas are off-limits for a reason. To trespass there would be to invite trouble."
Yet, Amir was undeterred, his rebellious streak shining through. "But imagine what we could discover, Basim. The hidden truths, the ancient wisdom that could lie within those walls. Wouldn't you dare to take a glimpse?"
Basim hesitated, torn between his sense of duty and the lure of the unknown. The idea of accessing forbidden knowledge was tempting, yet he knew the risks involved.
As they stood amidst the labyrinth of ancient scrolls and texts, a playful challenge emerged between them.
"You know, Basim," Amir said, "for a man who grew up on the streets, I am surprised you haven't already explored every nook and cranny of this place."
Basim smirked, his eyes scanning the shelves. "Surviving the streets taught me more than just how to pick a lock or pocket. It taught me caution, Amir."
Amir chuckled softly, stepping closer to the rope that marked the entrance to the most restricted section of the library. "But where's the fun in caution? I dare you, sadiqi. Let's see what secrets this place holds."
Basim glanced at the forbidden area, feeling the familiar thrill of a challenge. "You do realise we could be thrown out of here—or worse—if we're caught?"
Amir's grin widened. "Since when has the risk of getting caught stopped you, Basim? Think of it as...liberating long-lost knowledge."
With a sigh that was half excitement, half resignation, Basim nodded. "Alright, you're on. But we do this quickly and quietly."
"That's the spirit!" Amir exclaimed with anticipation. "After all, what's life without a little adventure?"
They both shared a brief, conspiratorial smile before ducking under the rope, slipping into the shadows of the restricted section. Now partners on a forbidden quest, their footsteps were silent, their movements swift and precise - a dance of shadows in a hall of whispered secrets.
Knowing the House of Wisdom like the back of his hand and being no stranger to the art of stealth, Basim felt a surge of confidence as he and Amir approached the library. His upbringing on the streets of Baghdad had honed his skills in navigating through tight spaces, skills that had once been used to aid the less fortunate. "Follow my lead," Basim whispered to Amir, his eyes scanning the corridor for guards. "Stay close and stay silent."
Basim had often resorted to thievery in his youth, but it was never for personal gain. It was always to help those in need - the poor families and orphaned children struggling in the impoverished areas of the city. Now, as a disciple of the Hidden Ones, his skills served a higher purpose, but the thrill of the challenge remained.
They reached the upper levels, where the air was thick with the musty scent of ancient parchment. Rows upon rows of shelves housing rare and valuable scrolls stretched before them, a treasure trove of knowledge.
"This is it," Basim whispered.
"Incredible." Amir's eyes widened in awe. "The knowledge contained here could be unparalleled."
They moved between the shelves, their hands gently tracing the spines of the ancient texts. Basim remained vigilant, aware that at any moment they could be discovered.
As they were engrossed in examining a particularly ancient scroll, the sound of heavy footsteps announced the approach of someone. Basim's instincts kicked in, but it was too late. They turned to see a burly guard, his face a mix of surprise and stern authority.
"What are you doing here?" the guard barked, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword. "This area is off-limits!"
Caught in the act, Basim and Amir exchanged a quick, nervous glance. Basim stepped forward, his voice calm and apologetic. "We meant no harm, sir. Our curiosity got the better of us."
The guard eyed them suspiciously, his gaze lingering on the scroll in their hands. "Ignorance of the rules is no excuse. This is a serious breach."
Basim bowed his head slightly, showing respect. "We understand, sir, and we apologise. It will not happen again."
The guard's stern expression softened slightly. After a moment of contemplation, he sighed. "I'm going to let you off this time. But if I catch you here again, I'll have no choice but to arrest you. Now leave immediately."
Basim and Amir quickly nodded in agreement, expressing their gratitude. "Thank you. We are leaving right now."
Relief washed over them. They had been lucky this time.
Once outside the library, they let out a collective sigh, the adrenaline of their near capture slowly ebbing away. "That was too close for comfort," Basim remarked, a slight, amused smile playing on his lips.
"Indeed," Amir replied. "But the risk was worth it! I got what I came for - a glimpse of the guarded secrets behind those walls."
Their laughter echoed softly in the halls of the House of Wisdom, a sound as rare and precious as the knowledge they had sought. For a moment, they were simply two friends sharing in the joy of a daring escapade.
They mounted their camels and left Abbasiyah behind, the city's cacophony fading into a serene silence as they ventured towards the tranquillity of the wilderness. The plan was to set up camp at a nearby oasis, where they could enjoy a night of respite after the heat of the day.
Then the unexpected rustle of movement broke the stillness of the cool desert air. Far from shadows emerged figures cloaked in the familiar attire of the Hidden Ones.
Amir, caught off guard, stood up abruptly, his eyes widening in surprise. Basim, however, remained calm. This had been his intention all along - to lead Amir to this moment, to unveil the truth behind his actions.
"Amir El-Sayed," a Hidden One spoke, their voice firm, "we know of the scroll you have taken from the House of Wisdom. It is time to reveal your true intentions and the purpose of your visit to Baghdad."
Amir confessed, his voice steady despite the gravity of his admission, "My intentions were never to cause harm or deceit. The scroll...it belongs to my world. I intended to return it to its rightful place- in Azeroth."
Basim stepped forward, his role as an orchestrator of this confrontation now clear. "I had to know the truth, Amir," he said, his voice tinged with a hint of apology. "The safety of our brotherhood and the understanding of your actions were of utmost importance."
The tension escalated as a senior member of the Hidden Ones stepped forward. "Hand over the scroll," the assassin demanded, his voice firm.
Amir huffed, his tone dripping condencension. "Oh you foolish human. You have no idea who you're talking to."
The assassin's eyes narrowed slightly. "You come into our world, take something of unknown power, and now claim it must return with you," he said. "How can we trust your words? How can we be sure this isn't part of a larger scheme against us?"
The argument intensified, voices rising. Basim, sensing the escalating conflict, shifted into a defensive stance.
In that heated moment, Amir's form began to change. It was a transformation both startling and majestic. His human guise melted away, revealing his true draconic self. His dark scales shimmered in the moonlight, wings unfurled with an imposing grace, and his eyes glowed with an ancient power. Angry and determined.
The assassins recoiled, blades drawn. They had heard legends of dragons, but never had they witnessed such a creature in their midst. The sight of a taneen , a creature of legends and children's tales, standing before them in the flesh, was almost beyond comprehension.
"Stand down!" Amir's voice boomed, resonating with a deep, primal authority, yet he made no aggressive move. "I mean you no harm. But this scroll must be returned to Azeroth."
"Let us listen to him!" Basim implored, addressing the others. "Amir has shown us his true self, choosing trust over hostility. We owe him the chance to explain."
The tension in the air remained, but the blades slowly lowered as the assassins weighed Basim's words. "Very well, we will listen," one of them conceded. "But understand this, taneen - our allegiance is to the safety and balance of our world first and foremost. You must convince us that returning this scroll serves not just your realm's interests but also does not threaten ours."
The black dragon lowered his head slightly. "I give you my word. The scroll's knowledge, while powerful, is not malevolent. But in the wrong hands here, it could cause unintended harm. I seek only to prevent such an outcome."
Basim regained his composure. His voice, though steady, elicited a hint of the wonder he felt. "What assurance do we have of your intentions?"
"The promise of new allies, knowledge and power beyond what is known in your world," the dragon's voice echoed in their minds. "We have magic, and technologies that could aid you in your quest for justice and balance."
Basim contemplated for a moment before replying, "Such a decision lies beyond our individual authority. It warrants the wisdom of our Mentors. Nevertheless, the potential benefits of your offer are... intriguing, to say the least."
Acknowledging Basim's response, Amir nodded respectfully, signalling his willingness to cooperate. "Very well," he agreed, "Then I shall have an audience with your Council."
The atmosphere was thick with whispered speculations and veiled glances in the fortress of Alamut. Standing in the midst of this, Wrathion, back in his human guise but with eyes glowing a deep, fiery red, was the centre of attention. Whispers of him being a djinn in disguise circulated among the onlookers, adding an air of mystique and apprehension to the proceedings.
Though Basim was not present at the meeting, the significance of the moment was not lost on him. He and his fellow assassins could sense that something momentous was unfolding within the walls of the council chamber.
Wrathion stood before the Hidden Ones, exuding a sense of calm confidence, his voice clear and resonant. "Honoured mentors of the Hidden Ones," he began, "I come before you today not as an adversary, but as one seeking understanding. My search for this displaced artifact has been long and arduous, involving the use of powerful magic to open portals to realms previously unexplored by my kind." He paused, allowing his words to sink in. "This quest led me to your world, to the desert where you found me, exhausted and in need of aid. For your assistance in my time of need, I am in your debt."
"You speak of powerful magic and realms beyond our own," Rayhan said. "This scroll you've obtained from the House of Wisdom – what assurance do we have that returning it to Azeroth will not bring harm to our world or yours?"
Wrathion nodded, acknowledging the Mentor's concern. "It contains ancient knowledge, powerful and potentially dangerous if misused."
Roshan, the Master Assassin, spoke up, her tone reflective of her position's authority. "And what of this alliance you propose?" she inquired, her eyes fixed on Wrathion. "What would it entail for the Hidden Ones?"
The Black Prince's gaze swept over them. "An invitation to explore Azeroth, to learn from its history, its magic, and its people. Ultimately, this alliance will involve the protection and support of my dragonflight."
The council engaged in a deep discussion.
"The decision to send an emissary to this Azeroth will not be taken lightly," Rayhan said. "We must deliberate carefully on who will undertake this journey and represent the Hidden Ones."
Roshan, leaning forward, spoke thoughtfully. "Basim Ibn Ishaq has shown exceptional qualities that align with this mission. His keen intellect, cultural adaptability, and strength of character will make him a suitable candidate."
"I agree," Fuladh added. "Basim's background, growing up in the streets and rising through our ranks, has equipped him with a unique perspective and resilience. He's proven himself capable of handling unexpected challenges."
As the meeting drew to a close, the consensus was clear. Roshan emerged much later after the meeting to seek out Basim, who was still in the courtyard with the others.
Excusing himself from the training session, he approached her with a mix of anticipation and curiosity in his eyes. "Master," he greeted her with a respectful nod.
"Basim," Roshan began, her expression serious yet tinged with a sense of profound trust. "We have deliberated on Wrathion's proposal. After careful consideration, we have decided to accept his offer to explore Azeroth. And you," she paused, looking him squarely in the eyes, "have been chosen to be our emissary."
Basim's heart skipped a beat at her words. "I am deeply honoured. I understand the significance of this mission and will represent the Hidden Ones to the best of my abilities."
Roshan nodded, a slight smile tugging at the corner of her lips. "We have every confidence in you, Basim. As you will be venturing into a world unknown to us, we will provide you with all the necessary preparations for your journey. This is not just a mission of exploration. It's an opportunity to gain insights that could prove invaluable to us."
"I will not disappoint you, Master," Basim promised.
Roshan offered a nod of approval, her expression reflecting both the seriousness of the mission and her confidence in her acolyte's abilities. "I have no doubt, Basim. Your dedication and skills have always stood out."
With those final words of encouragement, Roshan turned and walked away, leaving Basim alone in the quietude of Alamut's secluded gardens. He stood there for a moment, listening to the gentle whispers of the evening breeze rustling through the leaves. His attention was then drawn to Wrathion, standing a short distance away. The dignified stance of the Black Prince was unmistakable, and as their eyes met, Basim could see a fiery intensity in his gaze, laden with the weight of his recent betrayal.
"Are you still mad at me?" Basim ventured, addressing the tension that hung in the air.
Wrathion's gaze held Basim's for a moment longer, a complex mix of emotions playing across his features. Then, slowly, he relaxed, his eyes dimming to a thoughtful expression. "I understand why you did it, Basim. In your position, protecting your Brotherhood and seeking the truth, your actions were logical. But it doesn't lessen the sting of feeling betrayed."
Basim nodded, appreciating Wrathion's honesty. "I hope we can move past this, for there's much we can learn from each other."
There was a pause, a moment of silent understanding before the Black Prince spoke again, "Trust, once strained, takes time to rebuild. But yes, our goals align, and there is much at stake. Let's focus on what lies ahead, on the potential of this alliance."
"I have been informed of the Council's decision. I am to accompany you to Azeroth," Basim said.
Wrathion's smile broadened. "Indeed, you are the chosen emissary. Your aptitude for stealth and subterfuge will serve you well in Azeroth. Your journey there will be unlike any you have known. But fear not, for you will have my dragonflight's protection."
Basim felt the weight of the responsibility he was about to shoulder. "I will strive to be a worthy ambassador of the Hidden Ones."
Wrathion stepped closer. "It is crucial that you do not reveal yourself as an outlander immediately upon our arrival. The people of Azeroth are diverse and have faced many tribulations. The sudden appearance of an outlander, especially one from a world they cannot fathom, may arouse suspicion or fear. It is wise to tread carefully, to observe and understand their cultures before revealing your true origin."
Basim nodded, understanding the need for discretion. "I will heed your advice, sadiqi. I will keep my true identity concealed until the time is right."
"Furthermore, you should know that the languages of Azeroth are many, and Arabic is not among them," Wrathion continued, "If you were to speak in your native tongue, you would not be understood. I will provide you with the means to communicate in the common languages of Azeroth. This will aid you in your interactions and help you blend in more seamlessly."
Basim felt a mix of excitement and apprehension at this revelation. "I am grateful for your guidance. The task seems daunting, but I am committed to learning and adapting as needed."
Wrathion reached into the folds of his cloak and produced a small, intricately crafted amulet. The amulet glowed faintly, its light pulsing with a rhythm that seemed in tune with the heartbeat of some unseen world.
"This," Wrathion said as he handed the amulet to Basim, "is an enchanted artifact from Azeroth. It will serve as your bridge to our languages."
Basim took the amulet, examining it. The craftsmanship was unlike anything he had seen, and the faint glow emanating from it seemed to hold an otherworldly essence.
Wrathion explained further, "This amulet is imbued with magic that will allow you to understand and speak some of the common languages of Azeroth. When you wear it, the natives will hear your words in their tongue, and you will comprehend theirs."
Basim, fastening the amulet around his neck, felt a gentle warmth spread through him. It was as if the amulet was syncing with his very being, connecting him to a world beyond his own.
"This is remarkable," Basim said, a sense of wonder in his voice. "I can feel its magic. It's as if it's attuning itself to me."
Wrathion nodded. "It is linked to you now. The magic within it is ancient and powerful. Treat it with respect, and it will be your guide through the complexities of communication in Azeroth."
"I will guard it with my life," Basim said, tucking the artifact away, ensuring his safety. A smile then slowly crept across his face, reflecting the deep sense of purpose and growing excitement he felt at the prospect of exploring this new and mysterious world that awaited him.
The fortress began to stir just as the first light of dawn began to break across the sky. Roshan, along with other mentors of the Hidden Ones, gathered to bid farewell to Basim. The atmosphere was solemn, yet there was an undercurrent of excitement about the journey ahead of him.
"Your mission is one of great importance and potential. We expect your return a month from now. Should we not hear from you, we will take it as a sign of distress and will come looking for the Black Prince and his dragonflight."
Wrathion, still in his human form, rolled his eyes as he overheard the exchange. "As a gesture of good faith, the time-lost scroll will remain in the Alamut until our alliance is firmly established," he stated.
With the terms agreed upon, the mentors and acolytes of the Hidden Ones gathered around to bid Basim a safe journey. There were handshakes, pats on the back, and a few words of advice and encouragement. Basim's faithful eagle companion, Enkidu, responded to his call and descended gracefully from the battlements to perch on his forearm.
"He can observe things that might elude you on the ground," Fuladh, the Eagle Master, reminded him "And let's not forget, he will be the eyes of the Hidden Ones as well. Through him, we can stay informed about your journey and the new world you are about to explore."
Basim looked at Enkidu, who ruffled his feathers as if acknowledging Fuladh's words. "I will rely on Enkidu's keen senses and instincts. We will watch over each other."
Fuladh stepped back, giving Basim a final nod of approval. "Safe travels, Basim. We all have faith in you."
Basim then turned to Wrathion. "I am ready," he declared with confidence.
Upon Wrathion's subtle gesture, a portal materialised, emanating a mystical and luminous glow that bathed the surroundings in an ethereal light.
Taking a deep breath to steady himself, Basim, with his eagle companion securely perched on his arm, approached the portal and ventured forth on their maiden journey into the uncharted realms of Azeroth.