Jabal

"You cannot trust the words of snake, which even in death, produces venom."

―Jabal to Altaïr, 1191.

Jabal (born c. 1150s) was a member of the Levantine Brotherhood of Assassins, a Rafiq and Bureau leader in Acre during the Third Crusade.

Biography

Altaïr's visits

Prior to his demotion, Altaïr operated with significant autonomy, often bypassing the formal oversight of the Assassins' Bureaus. Following his failure at Solomon's Temple and subsequent demotion to the rank of novice, Al Mualim mandated that Altaïr visit the Bureau in each city to obtain the Rafiq's consent before proceeding with any assassination.

Jabal and other Bureau leaders were tasked with enforcing this new protocol, ensuring Altaïr gathered comprehensive intelligence through his own investigations rather than relying on his previous status. This requirement served as a corrective measure intended to cleanse Altaïr of the arrogance that had led to his failure, forcing him to answer to the Brotherhood's established hierarchy.

First visit

When Altaïr arrived in Acre to assassinate his first target, Garnier de Naplouse, Jabal provided initial leads but directed the Assassin to conduct his own investigation within the city. Following his inquiry, Altaïr returned to the Bureau and detailed his plan to strike during Garnier's rounds at the hospital. Acknowledging that Altaïr had given the matter significant thought, Jabal granted him permission to proceed and handed him a feather, stating: "Remove this stain from Acre, Altaïr. Perhaps it will help cleanse your own."

Second visit

Altaïr receiving a feather from Jabal

During Altaïr's second visit to assassinate William of Montferrat, Jabal greeted him with the observation that word of his deeds had spread, noting the Assassin's apparent sincerity regarding his redemption. The two briefly discussed the local political climate, with Jabal explaining that King Richard had compelled William to remain in Acre as a guest—effectively a hostage—to ensure the cooperation of William's son, Conrad of Montferrat. Jabal provided Altaïr with leads within the market, the Cathedral of the Holy Cross, and the border districts before dismissing him to investigate.

Upon his return, Altaïr reported that the tension between William and King Richard would provide an opening, as the Regent intended to retreat into his fortress to brood once the King departed. Satisfied with this analysis, Jabal granted Altaïr leave to strike and provided him with a feather to stain with the target's blood.

Third visit

On Altaïr's third arrival, to assassinate Sibrand, Jabal provided the Assassin with leads on where to focus his search. Before Altaïr departed to investigate, the Rafiq apologized for his earlier doubts regarding the former Master Assassin's dedication to the Order. Altaïr reassured him that the error had been his own and that Jabal owed him nothing.

When Altaïr returned to the Bureau, he reported that Sibrand had become paranoid and was hiding within the docks. Jabal noted the increased danger and wondered how the target learned of the mission. He then handed Altaïr the feather and warned him to be on his guard.

Retaking of Masyaf

Jabal was present during the retaking of Masyaf, as one of the few Assassins unaffected by the influence of an Apple of Eden. After assisting Altaïr against several entranced Assassins, Jabal—alongside Malik Al-Sayf and others—flanked the remaining opposition while Altaïr confronted Al Mualim.

Following Al Mualim's death, Jabal remained loyal to Altaïr during the subsequent riots, helping to restore order among the Assassins and civilians who still refused to accept the truth of Al Mualim's betrayal.

Personality and traits

Jabal typically maintained a jovial demeanor; his eyes often twinkled when greeting Altaïr, and he occasionally displayed a sense of humor, once joking that "A little bird told me you'd be paying a visit," referring to the messenger pigeon sent by Al Mualim. He took amusement in simple things, such as watching a pigeon fly off with a smile.

Despite his advanced age and graying beard, Jabal remained highly observant of current events, having already learned of Altaïr's failure at Solomon's Temple by the time the Assassin arrived at the Acre Bureau.

As Altaïr prepared to assassinate Sibrand, Jabal apologized for his previous mistrust in the Assassin's dedication to the cause, revealing a depth beyond his humorous exterior. He appeared more understanding toward Altaïr than his colleagues in Damascus and Jerusalem, likely a result of his age and wisdom.

Trivia

• In Assassin's Creed: The Secret Crusade, Altaïr speaks with Jabal following the capture of Maria Thorpe in Acre; however, in Assassin's Creed: Bloodlines, Altaïr speaks with an unnamed novice.
• In Assassin's Creed: Memories, Jabal's role as the Bureau leader of Acre is replaced by Malik Al-Sayf.
• Jabal's name was introduced in Assassin's Creed: The Secret Crusade; in Assassin's Creed, he is referred to simply as "Rafiq".
• Jabal (جبل) is Arabic for 'mountain', 'hill' or 'slope'.

Gallery

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  Concept art of Jabal
• 
  Assassin's Creed: Memories art of Jabal

Appearances

• Assassin's Creed (first appearance)
• Assassin's Creed: The Secret Crusade
• Assassin's Creed: Memories