the-secret-crusade-oliver-bowden

24
There was still something Altaïr needed to know, though.
And with the last of the city regents dead, now was the time to ask it.
He steeled himself as he was ushered once more into Al Mualim’s
chambers.
‘Come in, Altaïr. I trust you are well rested? Ready for your
remaining trials?’ said the Master.
‘I am. But I’d speak with you first. I have questions …’
Al Mualim indicated his disapproval by raising his chin and pursing
his lips slightly. No doubt he remembered the last occasion when Altaïr
had pressed for answers. So did Altaïr, who had decided to tread more
carefully this time, keen not to see a reappearance of the Master’s blade.
‘Ask, then,’ said Al Mualim. ‘I’ll do my best to answer.’
Altaïr took a deep breath. ‘The Merchant King of Damascus 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. What I do not
understand is why.’
‘Is the answer not obvious? The Templars desire control. Each man –
as you’ve noted – wanted to claim their cities in the Templar name that
the Templars themselves might rule the Holy Land and eventually