the-secret-crusade-oliver-bowden

19
Altaïr felt weary of the task. Tired and increasingly vexed. Each long
ride exhausted him further but he was commanded to visit Al Mualim
after every kill. And on each occasion the Master was enigmatic,
demanding details from him yet holding so much back.
So it would prove on the next occasion they met. ‘Word has reached
me of your success,’ Al Mualim said. ‘You’ve my gratitude – and that of
the realm. Freeing these cities from their corrupt leaders will no doubt
promote the cause of peace.’
‘Can you really be so sure?’ asked Altaïr. For his own part, he was
sure of less and less.
‘The means by which men rule are reflected in their people. As you
cleanse the cities of corruption, you heal the hearts and minds of those
who live within.’
‘Our enemies would disagree,’ said Altaïr, his mind going to those
whose eyes he had closed.
‘What do you mean?’
‘Each man I’ve slain has said strange words to me. They are without
regret. Even in death, they seem confident of their success. Though they
do not admit it directly, there is a tie that binds them. I am sure of it.’
Al Mualim regarded him carefully. ‘There is a difference, Altaïr,
between what we are told to be true and what we see to be true. Most