the-secret-crusade-oliver-bowden

29
When Altaïr next arrived at the Jerusalem Bureau, it was as a changed
man. Not that he would make the mistake of thinking his journey was
over – that would have been an error made by the old Altaïr. No, he
knew that it was just beginning. It was as though Malik sensed it too.
There was something changed about the Bureau leader when Altaïr
entered. There was a new respect and accord between them.
‘Safety and peace, Altaïr,’ he said.
‘Upon you as well, brother,’ replied Altaïr, and there was an unspoken
moment between them.
‘Seems Fate has a strange way with things …’
Altaïr nodded. ‘So it’s true, then? Robert de Sable is in Jerusalem?
‘I’ve seen the knights myself.’ Malik’s hand went to his stump.
Reminded of it by mention of the Templar.
‘Only misfortune follows that man. If he’s here, it’s because he intends
ill. I won’t give him the chance to act,’ said Altaïr.
‘Do not let vengeance cloud your thoughts, brother. We both know no
good can come of that.’
Altaïr smiled. ‘I have not forgotten. You have nothing to fear. I do not
seek revenge, but knowledge.’
Once he would have said such a thing parrot fashion, knowing the
beliefs expected of him. Now he truly believed it.