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| |concurrent= | | |concurrent= |
| |source=[[Basim Ibn Ishaq]] | | |source=[[Basim Ibn Ishaq]] |
| |location=[[Baghdad]], [[Abbasid Caliphate]] | | |location=[[Caravanserai, Baghdad|Caravanserai]], [[Baghdad]], [[Abbasid Caliphate]] |
| |date=862<ref group="note" name="note1">A time jump occurs during "[[Taking Flight]]". Despite it being unclear how much time Basim takes to complete his training, several [[Notes from Basim's travels|notes]] in [[Baghdad]] describe events that date to mid-862, with two documents being of importance: "Resignation of Abu 'Abdallah" is [[al-Mu'tazz]] renouncing his right to caliphal succession in favor of his elder brother {{Wiki|al-Muntasir}}, which historian [[al-Tabari]] dated to 27 April 862 in ''{{Wiki|Tarikh al-Tabari}}''{{'}}s 34th volume "[https://archive.org/details/tabarivolume34/mode/2up Incipient Decline: The Caliphates of al-Wathiq, al-Mutawakkil, and al-Muntasir]", while "Trouble at the Court" details al-Mu'tazz's cousin [[Al-Musta'in]] being appointed caliph following al-Muntasir's death that June. This, coupled with the fact that this memory and the succeeding ones must happen before 865, when al-Mut'azz and the [[Turkic Army]] should be shown {{Wiki|Abbasid civil war (865–866)|besieging}} Baghdad to defeat al-Musta'in and his [[Tahirids|Tahirid]] forces, implies that they happen in 862.</ref> | | |date=860s<ref>A time jump occurs during "[[Taking Flight]]". As such, it is unclear how much time Basim takes to complete his training, though this memory and the ones that follow must be placed before 867, the year in which ''[[Assassin's Creed: The Golden City]]'' takes place.</ref> |
| }} | | }} |
| '''First Order''' was a virtual representation of one of [[Basim Ibn Ishaq]]'s [[Genetic memory|genetic memories]] relived through the [[Animus]].<ref>''[[Assassin's Creed: Mirage]]''</ref> | | '''First Order''' was a virtual representation of one of [[Basim Ibn Ishaq]]'s [[Genetic memory|genetic memories]] relived through the [[Animus]].<ref>''[[Assassin's Creed: Mirage]]''</ref> |
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| ==Description== | | ==Description== |
| Basim is tasked with his first [[assassination]], the [[Order of the Ancients]] member Al-Ghul, whose true identity was [[Mas'ood Al-Ya'qoob]]. | | Basim was tasked with his first [[assassination]], that of [[Mas'ood Al-Ya'qoob]], an [[Order of the Ancients]] member going by the alias "Al-Ghul". |
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| ==Memory Animus Feedback System== | | ==Memory Animus Feedback System== |
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| ==Dialogue== | | ==Dialogue== |
| Basim followed his mentor Roshan through the town close to the [[Water Mill]]. | | Basim followed his mentor Roshan through the town close to the [[Water Mill]]. |
| | |
| *'''Roshan:''' ''Come, Basim.'' | | *'''Roshan:''' ''Come, Basim.'' |
| | |
| Passing by [[Beshi]], Basim and Roshan continued away from the town to a nearby [[stable]], where they mounted [[horse]]s and rode through the fields towards the [[Caravanserai, Baghdad|caravanserai]]. | | Passing by [[Beshi]], Basim and Roshan continued away from the town to a nearby [[stable]], where they mounted [[horse]]s and rode through the fields towards the [[Caravanserai, Baghdad|caravanserai]]. |
| | |
| *'''Roshan:''' ''An Order member is within [[Hidden Ones of Alamut|our]] reach, Basim. And like those before and those yet to come, Al-Ghul's death will be just. This is a man who preys off the desperate and the disenfranchised. And such atrocities will only continue, for Al-Ghul is but a cog in a larger wheel. One that spins [[New World Order|destructively]]. So long as it does, we [[Assassins|Hidden Ones]] will make it [[Assassin-Templar War|our mission]] to slow it to a stop. Today you will lend your hand, your [[Hidden Blade|blade]], to that very mission. And while Al-Ghul is your first target, he will not be your last. I have great belief in that. And in you. Through all my stoicism, my harsh lessons, know that you have impressed me, Basim. The Order's presence in [[Baghdad]] and beyond rests on shifting sands so long as you remain at the tip of our [[spear]].'' | | *'''Roshan:''' ''An Order member is within [[Hidden Ones of Alamut|our]] reach, Basim. And like those before and those yet to come, Al-Ghul's death will be just. This is a man who preys off the desperate and the disenfranchised. And such atrocities will only continue, for Al-Ghul is but a cog in a larger wheel. One that spins [[New World Order|destructively]]. So long as it does, we [[Assassins|Hidden Ones]] will make it [[Assassin-Templar War|our mission]] to slow it to a stop. Today you will lend your hand, your [[Hidden Blade|blade]], to that very mission. And while Al-Ghul is your first target, he will not be your last. I have great belief in that. And in you. Through all my stoicism, my harsh lessons, know that you have impressed me, Basim. The Order's presence in [[Baghdad]] and beyond rests on shifting sands so long as you remain at the tip of our [[spear]].'' |
| *'''Basim:''' ''And that is where I intend to remain. Beholden to your guidance, Master.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''And that is where I intend to remain. Beholden to your guidance, Master.'' |
| [[File:ACMir First Order 2.png|thumb|250px|Basim and Roshan looking at the caravanserai]] | | [[File:ACMir First Order 2.png|thumb|250px|Basim and Roshan looking at the caravanserai]] |
| They dismounted and walked to a rocky outcrop, where they saw the [[caravanserai]] in the distance. | | They dismounted and walked to a rocky outcrop, where they saw the [[caravanserai]] in the distance. |
| | |
| *'''Basim:''' ''As busy as a bee hive.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''As busy as a bee hive.'' |
| *'''Roshan:''' ''Come. Set your sights on the trial that awaits you.'' | | *'''Roshan:''' ''Come. Set your sights on the trial that awaits you.'' |
| *'''Basim:''' ''[[Merchant]]s. Livestock. Caravans from all walks. And I thought [[Anbar]]'s markets were disorderly.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''[[Merchant]]s. Livestock. Caravans from all walks. And I thought [[Anbar]]'s markets were disorderly.'' |
| *'''Roshan:''' ''Where there is disorder, there is chaos. And chaos can bring opportunity. See what avenues present themselves. Be reactive, but patient. And trust your instincts.'' | | *'''Roshan:''' ''Where there is disorder, there is chaos. And chaos can bring opportunity. See what avenues present themselves. Be reactive, but patient. And trust your instincts.'' |
| | |
| Basim looked around the site and saw his target on a building's balcony. | | Basim looked around the site and saw his target on a building's balcony. |
| [[File:ACMir First Order 4.png|thumb|250px|Basim given a heron feather for the target]]
| | |
| *'''Basim:''' ''That is Mas'ood, on the balcony. Just as Ali described.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''That is Mas'ood, on the balcony. Just as Ali described.'' |
| *'''Roshan:''' ''I see him.'' | | *'''Roshan:''' ''I see him.'' |
| | |
| Roshan handed Basim a [[heron]]'s [[feather]]. | | Roshan handed Basim a [[heron]]'s [[feather]]. |
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| *'''Roshan:''' ''Go now. Wet it with the blood of the slain. I will find you when it is over.'' | | *'''Roshan:''' ''Go now. Wet it with the blood of the slain. I will find you when it is over.'' |
| | |
| Basim reflected on his mission and his target, who oversaw the digging excavations on the [[Northern Oasis]] where countless people had died, and the caravanserai, where he located manpower for his work. | | Basim reflected on his mission and his target, who oversaw the digging excavations on the [[Northern Oasis]] where countless people had died, and the caravanserai, where he located manpower for his work. |
| [[File:ACMir First Order 5.png|thumb|250px|Mas'ood overseeing the excavation works]] | | [[File:ACMir First Order 5.png|thumb|250px|Mas'ood overseeing the excavation works]] |
| *'''Basim:''' ''You think your cruelties are well-hidden, Al-Ghul, for you chose those with little voice whose cries you knew would go unheard. They dug at your bidding, died at your hand and were cast aside like so much refuse. All to scour the desert for some [[Piece of Eden|artifact]]. Even now you [[Slavery|haggle for flesh]], safe in the Caravanserai. You prefer your victims chained and starved. It is time you faced a man unbound.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''You think your cruelties are well-hidden, Al-Ghul, for you chose those with little voice whose cries you knew would go unheard. They dug at your bidding, died at your hand and were cast aside like so much refuse. All to scour the desert for some [[Piece of Eden|artifact]]. Even now you [[Slavery|haggle for flesh]], safe in the Caravanserai. You prefer your victims chained and starved. It is time you faced a man unbound.'' |
| | |
| Basim listened to Roshan one last time before leaving. | | Basim listened to Roshan one last time before leaving. |
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| *'''Roshan:''' ''The stage is yours, Basim. I will be watching.<br>Remember, patience. Discipline. And when the opportunity presents itself, seize it. This is a test, Basim. For you, and you alone.'' | | *'''Roshan:''' ''The stage is yours, Basim. I will be watching.<br>Remember, patience. Discipline. And when the opportunity presents itself, seize it. This is a test, Basim. For you, and you alone.'' |
| | |
| Basim left the outcrop and approached the site. He found a note pinned to a merchant stall post outside the building. | | Basim left the outcrop and approached the site. He found a note pinned to a merchant stall post outside the building. |
| {{IUNote | | {{IUNote |
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| |-|Blend opportunity= | | |-|Blend opportunity= |
| Near the main gate, he found a group of merchants complaining. | | Near the main gate, he found a group of merchants complaining. |
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| *'''Civilian 1:''' ''What is the delay?'' | | *'''Civilian 1:''' ''What is the delay?'' |
| *'''Civilian 2:''' ''I am not certain. Some guards came poking around and ordered us all to wait.'' | | *'''Civilian 2:''' ''I am not certain. Some guards came poking around and ordered us all to wait.'' |
| | |
| Basim spoke to one of them. | | Basim spoke to one of them. |
| *'''Basim:''' ''What delays your departure, friend?'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''What delays your departure, friend?'' |
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| Can't help you.= | | Can't help you.= |
| *'''Basim:''' ''I am not sure I can be of any help at the moment.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''I am not sure I can be of any help at the moment.'' |
| | |
| After some reflection, Basim returned and spoke to the man again. | | After some reflection, Basim returned and spoke to the man again. |
| *'''Basim:''' ''Greetings, friend.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''Greetings, friend.'' |
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| *'''Caravan merchant:''' ''Would you do that? I would take great joy in seeing that man in a fit of anger. It is a crate of [[silk]]s and spices.'' | | *'''Caravan merchant:''' ''Would you do that? I would take great joy in seeing that man in a fit of anger. It is a crate of [[silk]]s and spices.'' |
| *'''Basim:''' ''Ready your [[camel]]. I will see what I can do.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''Ready your [[camel]]. I will see what I can do.'' |
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| Basim left and pondered over the merchant's words. | | Basim left and pondered over the merchant's words. |
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| *'''Basim:''' ''If I can get that merchant to leave, his abrupt departure may lure Al-Ghul out.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''If I can get that merchant to leave, his abrupt departure may lure Al-Ghul out.'' |
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| Basim managed to sneak onto the caravanserai's roof by [[Freerunning|climbing]] some trees on the building's south side and avoiding the [[soldier]] patrols. He began scouting his surroundings, starting from the main gate. In an office above it, he found a note on a desk. | | Basim managed to sneak onto the caravanserai's roof by [[Freerunning|climbing]] some trees on the building's south side and avoiding the [[soldier]] patrols. He began scouting his surroundings, starting from the main gate. In an office above it, he found a note on a desk. |
| {{IUNote | | {{IUNote |
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| |Text=Rahim,<br><br>A convoy of guards game to the caravanserai last night, all noiseless secrecy. They collected a large chest, half-crusted with dirt, loaded it into a card, and bore it away. I know not where, but I heard talk of the harbor. I watched from a distance, but fear I was seen. If something should happen to me, you will know that I have paid the price for bearing witness.}} | | |Text=Rahim,<br><br>A convoy of guards game to the caravanserai last night, all noiseless secrecy. They collected a large chest, half-crusted with dirt, loaded it into a card, and bore it away. I know not where, but I heard talk of the harbor. I watched from a distance, but fear I was seen. If something should happen to me, you will know that I have paid the price for bearing witness.}} |
| He continued circling the caravanserai's roof, eliminating or evading the guards, until he reached its opposite end, which had a larger locked office and an accompanying balcony over the rear exit. Using [[Eagle Vision]], he saw Mas'ood pacing about inside. Basim approached a beam overlooking the balcony. | | He continued circling the caravanserai's roof, eliminating or evading the guards, until he reached its opposite end, which had a larger locked office and an accompanying balcony over the rear exit. Using [[Eagle Vision]], he saw Mas'ood pacing about inside. Basim approached a beam overlooking the balcony. |
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| *'''Basim:''' ''Al-Ghul deserves a fate far worse than the one at the edge of my blade. My message will reach the Order, loud and clear.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''Al-Ghul deserves a fate far worse than the one at the edge of my blade. My message will reach the Order, loud and clear.'' |
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| He dropped to the balcony and read a note on an ornate footstool beside a chair and a small table of food. | | He dropped to the balcony and read a note on an ornate footstool beside a chair and a small table of food. |
| {{IUNote | | {{IUNote |
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| |Text=[[Alruh]]...<br><br>With each devotion of my mind and body to the Great Work, I sense it further. What once lay dormant floods through me, longing to carve out its own space. Whether it is in coalescence with the rest of me, I am not certain. I see, hear, and feel aspects of a life that is not my own, yet I sense a deep connection to it. My curiosity remains unsated. I must know more.}} | | |Text=[[Alruh]]...<br><br>With each devotion of my mind and body to the Great Work, I sense it further. What once lay dormant floods through me, longing to carve out its own space. Whether it is in coalescence with the rest of me, I am not certain. I see, hear, and feel aspects of a life that is not my own, yet I sense a deep connection to it. My curiosity remains unsated. I must know more.}} |
| He dropped into the courtyard to investigate further. | | He dropped into the courtyard to investigate further. |
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| *'''Basim:''' ''A crate with spices and silks. There cannot be too many of those around.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''A crate with spices and silks. There cannot be too many of those around.'' |
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| He saw a musician {{Wiki|Street performance|busking}} by the balcony's base. | | He saw a musician {{Wiki|Street performance|busking}} by the balcony's base. |
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| *'''Musician:''' ''Might we play for your pleasure?'' | | *'''Musician:''' ''Might we play for your pleasure?'' |
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| Basim paid the man a [[Khidmah Tokens|token]] for his services. | | Basim paid the man a [[Khidmah Tokens|token]] for his services. |
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| *'''Basim:''' ''Such a melody suits my mood of late.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''Such a melody suits my mood of late.'' |
| *'''Musician:''' ''Let the music flow!'' | | *'''Musician:''' ''Let the music flow!'' |
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| He sat down on a bench and played a tune, attracting some patrolling guards. While Basim blended into the crowd, he overheard two civilians arguing. | | He sat down on a bench and played a tune, attracting some patrolling guards. While Basim blended into the crowd, he overheard two civilians arguing. |
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| *'''Basim:''' ''A strange thing to happen upon. Perhaps I can use this to my advantage?'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''A strange thing to happen upon. Perhaps I can use this to my advantage?'' |
| *'''Civilian 2:''' ''You must think me a fool.'' | | *'''Civilian 2:''' ''You must think me a fool.'' |
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| *'''Civilian 3:''' ''If you want me to stop then you should move along. If not, I will gladly raise my [[fist]]s in place of mincing my words.'' | | *'''Civilian 3:''' ''If you want me to stop then you should move along. If not, I will gladly raise my [[fist]]s in place of mincing my words.'' |
| *'''Basim:''' ''Those two men are having a loud dispute, but not loud enough. How might I push them over the edge?'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''Those two men are having a loud dispute, but not loud enough. How might I push them over the edge?'' |
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| Basim [[Throwing knife|threw a knife]] at a rope that held a nearby hanging platform of jars above the men. The containers fell, creating a dust cloud, and the startled onlookers briefly scattered. The two men became even angrier at each other, drawing more people to them. | | Basim [[Throwing knife|threw a knife]] at a rope that held a nearby hanging platform of jars above the men. The containers fell, creating a dust cloud, and the startled onlookers briefly scattered. The two men became even angrier at each other, drawing more people to them. |
| *'''Civilian 2:''' ''Did you...argh! Now I've had it.'' | | |
| | *'''Civilian 2:''' ''Did you... argh! Now I've had it.'' |
| *'''Civilian 3:''' ''Do you take me for a fool? You did that!'' | | *'''Civilian 3:''' ''Do you take me for a fool? You did that!'' |
| *'''Basim:''' ''The louder they get, the more onlookers they attract.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''The louder they get, the more onlookers they attract.'' |
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| Their noise attracted the other soldiers guarding a nearby alcove, prompting Basim to search there for the crate mentioned by the merchant. He found it amidst other treasure and carried the crate. | | Their noise attracted the other soldiers guarding a nearby alcove, prompting Basim to search there for the crate mentioned by the merchant. He found it amidst other treasure and carried the crate. |
| [[File:ACMir First Order 9.png|thumb|250px|Basim carrying the crate]] | | [[File:ACMir First Order 9.png|thumb|250px|Basim carrying the crate]] |
| *'''Basim:''' ''Hmm... pungent. This must be the caravan merchant's crate.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''Hmm... pungent. This must be the caravan merchant's crate.'' |
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| After quietly leaving the caravanserai, he returned the crate to the merchant. | | After quietly leaving the caravanserai, he returned the crate to the merchant. |
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| *'''Caravan merchant:''' ''Is that what I think it is?'' | | *'''Caravan merchant:''' ''Is that what I think it is?'' |
| *'''Basim:''' ''Is this your crate?'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''Is this your crate?'' |
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| *'''Basim:''' ''Not today, no. But I will ask that you loudly proclaim your departure. Make sure Mas'ood notices.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''Not today, no. But I will ask that you loudly proclaim your departure. Make sure Mas'ood notices.'' |
| *'''Caravan merchant:''' ''Ha! We share the same mind. My thanks to you, ''ya sadeeqi'' (friend).'' | | *'''Caravan merchant:''' ''Ha! We share the same mind. My thanks to you, ''ya sadeeqi'' (friend).'' |
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| Basim [[Blending|mingled]] with the merchant and his followers as they entered the caravanserai while bypassing the guards. An angry crowd of merchants began forming in front of the balcony, with Basim in attendance. | | Basim [[Blending|mingled]] with the merchant and his followers as they entered the caravanserai while bypassing the guards. An angry crowd of merchants began forming in front of the balcony, with Basim in attendance. |
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| *'''Basim:''' ''Word will surely get to Al-Ghul. Come out and spectate, coward.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''Word will surely get to Al-Ghul. Come out and spectate, coward.'' |
| [[File:ACMir First Order 12.png|thumb|250px|A crowd forming in front of the balcony]] | | [[File:ACMir First Order 12.png|thumb|250px|A crowd forming in front of the balcony]] |
| As he expected, Mas'ood came out to the balcony. | | As he expected, Mas'ood came out to the balcony. |
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| *'''Basim:''' ''There he is. Now is my chance.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''There he is. Now is my chance.'' |
| *'''Al-Ghul:''' ''What is happening out there? Where does that caravan merchant think he is going? I am not leaving, not until I know that has caused such chaos. Stay alert. I feel something is amiss'' | | *'''Mas'ood:''' ''What is happening out there? Where does that caravan merchant think he is going? I am not leaving, not until I know that has caused such chaos. Stay alert. I feel something is amiss'' |
| |-|Document opportunity= | | |-|Document opportunity= |
| [[File:ACMir First Order 8.png|thumb|250px|Basim speaking to a trapped worker]] | | [[File:ACMir First Order 8.png|thumb|250px|Basim speaking to a trapped worker]] |
| Basim managed to sneak into the caravanserai by diving into the waters of a small stream, swimming until he emerged on a pool inside the site and killing the soldier who guarded it. In one of the buildings, he overheard an impatient worker. | | Basim managed to sneak into the caravanserai by diving into the waters of a small stream, swimming until he emerged on a pool inside the site and killing the soldier who guarded it. In one of the buildings, he overheard an impatient worker. |
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| *'''Civilian 4:''' ''You there. Come over here, quickly. Get us out and I will make it worth your while. Please!'' | | *'''Civilian 4:''' ''You there. Come over here, quickly. Get us out and I will make it worth your while. Please!'' |
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| Basim approached the worker. | | Basim approached the worker. |
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| *'''Civilian 4:''' ''We were promised steady work and fruitful returns. Now we're being made to slog in the desert! We were deceived. Please, you must help us!'' | | *'''Civilian 4:''' ''We were promised steady work and fruitful returns. Now we're being made to slog in the desert! We were deceived. Please, you must help us!'' |
| {{#tag:tabber| | | {{#tag:tabber| |
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| I need to consider my options.= | | I need to consider my options.= |
| *'''Basim:''' ''I plan to, it is only a matter of how. Wait here, I will return.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''I plan to, it is only a matter of how. Wait here, I will return.'' |
| | |
| Basim left to think, then made his way back and spoke to the man again. | | Basim left to think, then made his way back and spoke to the man again. |
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| *'''Civilian 4:''' ''You've returned! Will you help us?'' | | *'''Civilian 4:''' ''You've returned! Will you help us?'' |
| }} | | }} |
| *'''Basim:''' ''Tell me what I can do to help.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''Tell me what I can do to help.'' |
| *'''Civilian 4:''' ''The man who brought us has a deed that binds us to Mas'ood. If he has not collected his fee he should still be here.'' | | *'''Civilian 4:''' ''The man who brought us has a deed that binds us to Mas'ood. If he has not collected his fee he should still be here.'' |
| | |
| Basim pondered about the worker's words as he left. | | Basim pondered about the worker's words as he left. |
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| *'''Basim:''' ''If I can relieve these men of their duty, it will not be long before Al-Ghul catches wind of his disbanded work force.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''If I can relieve these men of their duty, it will not be long before Al-Ghul catches wind of his disbanded work force.'' |
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| In search of the merchant with the deed, he entered a rug-decorated alcove and spoke to the merchant there. | | In search of the merchant with the deed, he entered a rug-decorated alcove and spoke to the merchant there. |
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| *'''Basim:''' ''Greetings, my friend. What sorts of goods are you travelling with?'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''Greetings, my friend. What sorts of goods are you travelling with?'' |
| *'''Merchant 1:''' ''[[Ivory]] and [[honey]]. And you? Are you seeking to trade?'' | | *'''Merchant 1:''' ''[[Ivory]] and [[honey]]. And you? Are you seeking to trade?'' |
| *'''Basim:''' ''Perhaps. For now I will browse for a little longer.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''Perhaps. For now I will browse for a little longer.'' |
| | |
| He left and found a food merchant in another alcove. | | He left and found a food merchant in another alcove. |
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| *'''Basim:''' As-salamu'alaikum. ''(Peace be upon you.)'' | | *'''Basim:''' As-salamu'alaikum. ''(Peace be upon you.)'' |
| *'''Merchant 2:''' Wa'alaikum as-salam. ''(And peace be upon you.) Could I interest you in some fruits today? My pomegranates are ripe and succulent!'' | | *'''Merchant 2:''' Wa'alaikum as-salam. ''(And peace be upon you.) Could I interest you in some fruits today? My pomegranates are ripe and succulent!'' |
| *'''Basim:''' ''Is that what you have come to trade? Let me think on it.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''Is that what you have come to trade? Let me think on it.'' |
| | |
| Basim then spoke with a third merchant looking over some bags of spice. | | Basim then spoke with a third merchant looking over some bags of spice. |
| | |
| *'''Basim:''' ''Well met, traveler. The caravanserai is rich with wares today. I was wondering if you had any goods to sell.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''Well met, traveler. The caravanserai is rich with wares today. I was wondering if you had any goods to sell.'' |
| *'''Merchant 3:''' ''I only deal in [[dirham]], and what I sell are not goods, boy. Though I suppose that depends on who you ask.'' | | *'''Merchant 3:''' ''I only deal in [[dirham]], and what I sell are not goods, boy. Though I suppose that depends on who you ask.'' |
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| (Pay)= | | (Pay)= |
| Basim showed the man the coin he demanded. | | Basim showed the man the coin he demanded. |
| | |
| *'''Basim:''' ''A high price, but... it is one I can pay.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''A high price, but... it is one I can pay.'' |
| *'''Merchant 3:''' ''But not one I expected you to. I said my men were spoken for. Nothing will change that, and for good reason. Now be gone.'' | | *'''Merchant 3:''' ''But not one I expected you to. I said my men were spoken for. Nothing will change that, and for good reason. Now be gone.'' |
| }} | | }} |
| Basim left the merchant and thought to himself. | | Basim left the merchant and thought to himself. |
| | |
| *'''Basim:''' ''If I am going to free those laborers, I will have to steal the deed.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''If I am going to free those laborers, I will have to steal the deed.'' |
| | |
| He followed the slave merchant into a covered part of the market and stealthily stole the deed, which he then read. | | He followed the slave merchant into a covered part of the market and stealthily stole the deed, which he then read. |
| {{IUNote | | {{IUNote |
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| |Text=Sold for 160 dinar<br><br>Quantity: 8 men<br>Quality: Strong, healthy<br>Origin: Persia<br><br>Sold to:<br>x Mas'ood Al-Ya'qoob}} | | |Text=Sold for 160 dinar<br><br>Quantity: 8 men<br>Quality: Strong, healthy<br>Origin: Persia<br><br>Sold to:<br>x Mas'ood Al-Ya'qoob}} |
| He pocketed the document. | | He pocketed the document. |
| | |
| *'''Basim:''' ''Now to free those men.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''Now to free those men.'' |
| *'''Merchant 3:''' ''Oh, where... where is... wha... The deed! Have I dropped it? No, no, no. No!'' | | *'''Merchant 3:''' ''Oh, where... where is... wha... The deed! Have I dropped it? No, no, no. No!'' |
| | |
| Basim returned to the worker. | | Basim returned to the worker. |
| | |
| *'''Basim:''' ''I have claimed the deed from your handler. You are bound no longer. Go!'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''I have claimed the deed from your handler. You are bound no longer. Go!'' |
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| The worker left. | | The worker left. |
| | |
| *'''Basim:''' ''The laborers run amok. Al-Ghul will take notice. I must be ready to strike. Word will surely get to Al-Ghul. Come out and spectate, coward.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''The laborers run amok. Al-Ghul will take notice. I must be ready to strike. Word will surely get to Al-Ghul. Come out and spectate, coward.'' |
| | |
| The workers gathered in front of the courtyard and protested, with Basim in attendance. | | The workers gathered in front of the courtyard and protested, with Basim in attendance. |
| | |
| *'''Civilian 4:''' ''We have come with the promise of work. Why bind our hands like this?'' | | *'''Civilian 4:''' ''We have come with the promise of work. Why bind our hands like this?'' |
| | |
| As Basim expected, Mas'ood came out to the balcony. | | As Basim expected, Mas'ood came out to the balcony. |
| | |
| *'''Basim:''' ''Death approaches, Al-Ghul'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''Death approaches, Al-Ghul'' |
| *'''Al-Ghul:''' ''What is happening out there?'' | | *'''Mas'ood:''' ''What is happening out there?'' |
| *'''Civilian 5:''' ''Where is the overseer? I demand to know the meaning of this.'' | | *'''Civilian 5:''' ''Where is the overseer? I demand to know the meaning of this.'' |
| *'''Civilian 6:''' ''This was a ruse all along! What do you mean to do with us?'' | | *'''Civilian 6:''' ''This was a ruse all along! What do you mean to do with us?'' |
| *'''Al-Ghul:''' ''The workers have escaped! Get them under control!'' | | *'''Mas'ood:''' ''The workers have escaped! Get them under control!'' |
| </tabber> | | </tabber> |
| Basim got up to the roof of the building presiding over the balcony and approached a scaffolding. | | Basim got up to the roof of the building presiding over the balcony and approached a scaffolding. |
| [[File:ACMir First Order 14.png|thumb|250px|Basim jumping down onto Mas'ood with his Hidden Blade]] | | [[File:ACMir First Order 14.png|thumb|250px|Basim jumping down onto Mas'ood with his Hidden Blade]] |
| *'''Basim:''' ''This ends now.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''This ends now.'' |
| | |
| Basim jumped down onto Mas'ood and stabbed him with his Hidden Blade. He then dragged Mas'ood's to a nearby rope and wrapped it around the man's neck, before leaping with him over the balcony rail, landing in the courtyard and displaying the hanged Order member to the caravanserai. Basim instantly found himself in the [[Memory Corridor]]. He looked about, unsure of his surroundings before he heard Mas'ood behind him. | | Basim jumped down onto Mas'ood and stabbed him with his Hidden Blade. He then dragged Mas'ood's to a nearby rope and wrapped it around the man's neck, before leaping with him over the balcony rail, landing in the courtyard and displaying the hanged Order member to the caravanserai. Basim instantly found himself in the [[Memory Corridor]]. He looked about, unsure of his surroundings before he heard Mas'ood behind him. |
| *'''Al-Ghul:''' La'anaka Allah. ''(May [[Islam|God]] curse you.)'' | | |
| | *'''Mas'ood:''' La'anaka Allah. ''(May [[Islam|God]] curse you.)'' |
| | |
| Basim saw Mas'ood, who lay on the ground beside his Order mask and a tangle of rope. Basim knelt by Mas'ood, who grunted in pain. | | Basim saw Mas'ood, who lay on the ground beside his Order mask and a tangle of rope. Basim knelt by Mas'ood, who grunted in pain. |
| [[File:ACMir First Order 18.png|thumb|250px|Basim and Mas'ood in the Memory Corridor]] | | [[File:ACMir First Order 18.png|thumb|250px|Basim and Mas'ood in the Memory Corridor]] |
| *'''Basim:''' ''Turn your hate inward, Mas'ood. It is your wickedness that has led you here.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''Turn your hate inward, Mas'ood. It is your wickedness that has led you here.'' |
| *'''Al-Ghul:''' ''Wickedness? To whom? The unenlightened? The feeble who have cast their lot? It is our divine will to rule over them. Our duty to exact their contribution.'' | | *'''Mas'ood:''' ''Wickedness? To whom? The unenlightened? The feeble who have cast their lot? It is our divine will to rule over them. Our duty to exact their contribution.'' |
| *'''Basim:''' ''Contribution to what?'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''Contribution to what?'' |
| *'''Al-Ghul:''' ''To what could be. The very [[Isu|knowledge]] of which lies buried [[Northern Oasis vault|beneath]] [['Aqarquf Dunes|these sands]].'' | | *'''Mas'ood:''' ''To what could be. The very [[Isu|knowledge]] of which lies buried [[Northern Oasis vault|beneath]] [['Aqarquf Dunes|these sands]].'' |
| *'''Basim:''' ''Some things are meant to stay that way.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''Some things are meant to stay that way.'' |
| *'''Al-Ghul:''' ''No, no, no, no, no... These... are gifts. Destined to be recovered. They speak to us. As you well know...'' | | *'''Mas'ood:''' ''No, no, no, no, no... These... are gifts. Destined to be recovered. They speak to us. As you well know...'' |
| *'''Basim:''' ''Me?'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''Me?'' |
| *'''Al-Ghul:''' ''Oh, yes. A Hidden One you may be, but [[Isu incarnation|not just]]...'' | | *'''Mas'ood:''' ''Oh, yes. A Hidden One you may be, but [[Isu incarnation|not just]]...'' |
| Mas'ood passed from his wounds. Basim took the feather and dipped it in his blood. Once he did so, a dim sound was heard and Mas'ood's body turned to sand. Basim's surroundings darkened and he heard a groan, reminiscent of his nightmares from the year prior. Basim peered into the veil of sand and saw the familiar figure of the [[djinn]]. Having killed his target, Basim swiftly dispatched two nearby guards. Stunned, he gazed at his hands then into the crowd, where he saw his old friend [[Nehal]] in the distance. | | |
| | Mas'ood passed from his wounds. Basim took the feather and dipped it in his blood. Once he did so, a dim sound was heard and Mas'ood's body turned to sand. Basim's surroundings darkened and he heard a groan, reminiscent of his old nightmares. Basim peered into the veil of sand and saw the familiar figure of the [[djinn]], though the vision ended before the creature could approach him. Having killed his target, Basim swiftly dispatched two nearby guards. Stunned, he gazed at his hands then into the crowd, where he saw his old friend [[Nehal]] in the distance. |
| [[File:ACMir First Order 22.png|thumb|250px|Basim spotting Nehal in the distance]] | | [[File:ACMir First Order 22.png|thumb|250px|Basim spotting Nehal in the distance]] |
| *'''Basim:''' ''Nehal?'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''Nehal?'' |
| | |
| | Suddenly, Basim's mentor called out to him. |
| | |
| *'''Roshan:''' ''Basim!'' | | *'''Roshan:''' ''Basim!'' |
| | |
| As Roshan pulled him away, Basim found that Nehal had disappeared. Nevertheless, he left the caravanserai with his mentor and returned to the outcrop, where he sat down in a meditation stance. | | As Roshan pulled him away, Basim found that Nehal had disappeared. Nevertheless, he left the caravanserai with his mentor and returned to the outcrop, where he sat down in a meditation stance. |
| | |
| *'''Roshan:''' ''Clear your mind.'' | | *'''Roshan:''' ''Clear your mind.'' |
| *'''Basim:''' (deep breath) | | *'''Basim:''' (deep breath) |
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| [[File:ACMir First Order 24.png|thumb|250px|Basim and Roshan reflecting on his first kill]] | | [[File:ACMir First Order 24.png|thumb|250px|Basim and Roshan reflecting on his first kill]] |
| Having cleared his mind, Basim stood up and spoke to Roshan. | | Having cleared his mind, Basim stood up and spoke to Roshan. |
| | |
| *'''Basim:''' ''I believe what he sought to uncover were more strange objects like [[Memory Seals|the one]] I [[The Master Thief of Anbar|took]] from the [[Winter Palace, Anbar|Winter Palace]]. What does the Order want with these relics of [[Isu Era|the past]]? And why guard them with so much effort?'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''I believe what he sought to uncover were more strange objects like [[Memory Seals|the one]] I [[The Master Thief of Anbar|took]] from the [[Winter Palace, Anbar|Winter Palace]]. What does the Order want with these relics of [[Isu Era|the past]]? And why guard them with so much effort?'' |
| *'''Roshan:''' ''You are beginning to ask the right questions, Basim. We shall find the answers together.'' | | *'''Roshan:''' ''You are beginning to ask the right questions, Basim. We shall find the answers together.'' |
| *'''Basim:''' ''Lately all I have are questions.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''Lately all I have are questions.'' |
| | |
| He looked back at the caravanserai in thought. | | He looked back at the caravanserai in thought. |
| | |
| *'''Roshan:''' ''What do you mean?'' | | *'''Roshan:''' ''What do you mean?'' |
| *'''Basim:''' ''Nothing. Forget I said anything.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''Nothing. Forget I said anything.'' |
| | |
| Roshan shook her head in disappointment. | | Roshan shook her head in disappointment. |
| | |
| *'''Roshan:''' ''How am I to guide you if you will not speak openly?'' | | *'''Roshan:''' ''How am I to guide you if you will not speak openly?'' |
| [[File:ACMir First Order 25.png|thumb|250px|Basim telling Roshan about his nightmares]] | | [[File:ACMir First Order 25.png|thumb|250px|Basim telling Roshan about his nightmares]] |
| Basim faced her and reluctantly opened up. | | Basim faced her and reluctantly opened up. |
| | |
| *'''Basim:''' ''I have... I have... struggled with nightmares. In these dreams a jinni torments me until I wake up panicked and soaked with sweat. In [[Alamut]], I had nearly forgotten about it. But when I killed Al-Ghul, I felt its presence again. And I am left asking why. Why here? Why now? Why me? Piling questions and no answers. I meant to tell you, but...'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''I have... I have... struggled with nightmares. In these dreams a jinni torments me until I wake up panicked and soaked with sweat. In [[Alamut]], I had nearly forgotten about it. But when I killed Al-Ghul, I felt its presence again. And I am left asking why. Why here? Why now? Why me? Piling questions and no answers. I meant to tell you, but...'' |
| *'''Roshan:''' ''You were afraid I would think you weak of mind.'' | | *'''Roshan:''' ''You were afraid I would think you weak of mind.'' |
| | |
| Basim nodded. | | Basim nodded. |
| [[File:ACMir First Order 26.png|thumb|250px|Roshan granting Basim time off to heal]]
| | |
| *'''Roshan:''' ''We are only as weak as we allow ourselves to be. To shed a weakness, you must do what is necessary to mend that which causes you pain.'' | | *'''Roshan:''' ''We are only as weak as we allow ourselves to be. To shed a weakness, you must do what is necessary to mend that which causes you pain.'' |
| *'''Basim:''' ''Will you permit me a brief respite? I wish to seek out an old friend.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''Will you permit me a brief respite? I wish to seek out an old friend.'' |
| *'''Roshan:''' ''Nehal? I remember. She is important to you, isn't she?'' | | *'''Roshan:''' ''Nehal? I remember. She is important to you, isn't she?'' |
| *'''Basim:''' ''She is, but last we spoke I led her to believe otherwise.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''She is, but last we spoke I led her to believe otherwise.'' |
| | [[File:ACMir First Order 26.png|thumb|250px|Roshan granting Basim time off to heal]] |
| *'''Roshan:''' ''This causes you pain. Then go and heal this wound without delay. Find me at the [[Harbiyah bureau]] when it is settled.'' | | *'''Roshan:''' ''This causes you pain. Then go and heal this wound without delay. Find me at the [[Harbiyah bureau]] when it is settled.'' |
| | |
| Roshan took her leave. | | Roshan took her leave. |
| | |
| *'''Basim:''' ''If that was indeed Nehal, I have not a clue where she went. Back [[Anbar Hideout|home]] in Anbar, maybe.'' | | *'''Basim:''' ''If that was indeed Nehal, I have not a clue where she went. Back [[Anbar Hideout|home]] in Anbar, maybe.'' |
|
| |
|
| ==Outcome== | | ==Outcome== |
| Basim assassinated Al-Ghul. After fulfilling his task, he spotted his old friend Nehal among the crowd. Wanting to make peace with her, Basim asked Roshan for a small leave in order to search for her at their old hideout in Anbar. | | Basim assassinated Mas'ood, but experienced a vision of the djinn – the first one since he had joined the Hidden Ones – and saw his old friend Nehal. Wanting to make peace with her, Basim asked Roshan for a small leave in order to search for Nehal at their old home in Anbar. |
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| ==Gallery== | | ==Gallery== |
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| ACMir First Order 1.png|Basim following Roshan to the caravanserai | | ACMir First Order 1.png|Basim following Roshan to the caravanserai |
| ACMir First Order 3.png|Mas'ood on the balcony | | ACMir First Order 3.png|Mas'ood on the balcony |
| | ACMir First Order 4.png|Basim receiving a heron feather for the assassination |
| ACMir First Order 6.png|Basim finding a group of stranded merchants near the main gate | | ACMir First Order 6.png|Basim finding a group of stranded merchants near the main gate |
| ACMir First Order 11.png|Basim following the merchant group into the caravanserai | | ACMir First Order 11.png|Basim following the merchant group into the caravanserai |
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| ACMir First Order 23.png|Roshan pulling Basim away | | ACMir First Order 23.png|Roshan pulling Basim away |
| </gallery> | | </gallery> |
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| ==Note==
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| <references group="note"/>
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| ==References== | | ==References== |
