[AC] Just a Dream [Reserved]

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Rahat kicked her feet rather childishly, having taken to sitting on one of the low walls. Many passed by, mostly giving her a wide berth. For some, they would have questioned this behavior. Rahat had long since figured out why most did so.

She had been known as a 'Child of Misfortune.' As a child, Rahat had stumbled upon something and touched it. She didn't recall much of that event, having passed out. As she grew, her hair began to change, white overtaking the black that had been there. What alarmed most were her red eyes.

As a child, she had not understood this change or even wanted it. Her parents eventually sold her believing that she would bring them nothing but misfortune. She was passed to many hands from there. Years passed and those who were her 'owners' did not become kinder.

There were scars, more in her mind then on her body. Rahat had long since tried to forget the past. When the Assassin's had found her, she was rescued, in a way, brought to Masyaf where she learned of her origin, what she was.

It had been difficult to pry her from her paranoid ways. Very few were able to get her to speak. Even less saw her smile. Through the years, she had latched onto a few assassin's and assassin's in training. She had known them enough to call them friend. Still, she knew that others feared what she was. Rahat had no choice but to live with it.

Now, she waited on a certain group to return from their mission. She had come to know Malik and Kadar a Sayf in recent years. Their typical third companion, Altair Ibn La Ahad, she did not care for. The man viewed her more or less as an object.

Rahat hated being viewed as such. Her entire life up to this point, she had been nothing but an object, sold for her oddities, for the strange things that entered her mind. There was nothing that made her more livid, she found.

Eventually, she pulled her legs up, sitting cross legged. They had been gone for several days now but she hoped they would return. Once in a while, she had visions of their time. When she dreamt of them, she always had a hunch they would come back. Rahat was always waiting when they did.

Subject: Re: [AC] Just a Dream [Reserved] Tue Jul 09, 2013 9:23 pm

It had been some time since they had left for Acre, nearly two weeks. Malik was more than glad to be headed back from their latest mission, Masyaf's entrance just around the bend. The sun was beating down on them, the horses slowed so as to make up for the sprint they had to endure to outrun the guards.

Malik shot a vicious glare Altair's way though it went ignored. If it had not been for Altair they might not have had to endure the chase. Malik had already told him off, anger burning hot in his stomach from the way Kadar had been put into needless danger.

The silence seemed almost suffocating though Malik did little to break it, even as he spied Kadar shifting uncomfortably atop his steed. The younger man could endure it just a little longer. Altair would no doubt make a beeline for Al Mualim to boast of their mission success. Malik had to resist scoffing about that.

It was with great relief when just that happened upon reaching Masyaf's entrance. Altair had swung off his horse and handed the reigns off to one of the stable hands before making his way up the slope without another word. Malik shook his head at the way Kadar seemed downcast about that.

"One should not idolize that scoundrel," he snapped, shooting Kadar a look. Kadar merely shrugged, already off his horse before Malik had even followed suit.

"I don't see why not," the younger brother answered. "He is the best there is!"

A long suffering sigh escaped Malik at this. There was no changing Kadar's mind about this. He could only hope that Kadar would not turn out like Altair, blinded by arrogance and willing to break the creed to do as he liked. Instead of arguing further he gestured for Kadar to follow after.

"Come, I am sure Rahat has been waiting impatiently for us," he noted. If they did not seek her out first before heading to Al Mualim there was no telling what kind of reaction they might have. She could be unpredictable at times, after all.

It would not be long to find the girl. As a Child of Misfortune many gave her a wide berth even when she was doing nothing but sitting upon a wall. If Malik had to say anything of it he would note that Rahat had at least perked up when they neared her.

"I hope you were not waiting everyday on this drab wall," Malik noted.

"No one gave you any trouble while we were absent, did they?" Kadar interrogated instead. It had happened once or twice, despite Rahat's association with the Assassins.

----[x]----

Day in and day out, it was the same for Les. A Child of Misfortune she was given a wide berth more often than not. There were a handful in Boston who had attempted to track her down. Les knew the streets too well for them to get a bead on her more often then not. She'd be there one second and gone the next.

Now, however, she was more intent on getting something in her belly. Les had been eyeing the food stall nearby, waiting for an opportune time to slip by and sneak an apple off of it. No one was willing to give her things, considering what she was. Instead she had taken to pinching the things she needed. It was made difficult when she was a prevalent figure in Boston, however.

After a long time of waiting, crouched behind a corner and in shadows, Les saw her chance. She darted forward, slipping easily into the crowd before the food stall and snatching an apple up. With that taken she slipped away just as quickly with no one the wiser.

Her pace was quick and she'd already taken a bite out of the fruit. Les's eyes scanned the crowds. No one was watching her or staring at her any more than they usually did. That was good, no one had noticed then.

She pushed her hair behind her ear, tangled and wavy as it was. Any prettiness she might have had was obscured by the dirt she'd picked up, her simple dress tatty. Les was in need of a change though she had not the opportunity to snatch something up. Her bare feet padded along the dirt road easily, closer towards the outskirts of Boston than usual.

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Rahat folder her hands, letting them rest in her lap. Timed to move slowly, despite her impatience. Very few approached her, after all. When they did, Rahat caught a sense of fear that still lingered. She knew they were afraid.

Malik and Kadar were genuine with their feelings. She did not feel the same things from them like she did the others. They spoke with her like she was normal, even worried when other assassin's gave her trouble. She recalled a point when Malik had chewed someone out for giving her trouble.

She hoped that that behavior would never change. At a point, she had been scared that it would in Kadar's case. The younger brother seemed to take a liking to Altair. While she did not voice it, she didn't want him to change his views or his almost innocent ways.

She blinked, catching sight of white robes in the distance. Armor glinted in the sunlight. Rahat resisted a scoff, noting it was Altair. Neither paid mind to each other, though she spared a glance as he moved up the slope. But a few moments had passed before she caught sight of the brothers making their way toward her.

She perked up when she saw them, a smile tugging at her lips. Only a few moments passed before they were near her, greeting her as they always did.

"I have not," she answered, pushing herself off the wall. She landed easily onto the ground. "At least, not long everyday."

The shake of Malik's head left her smiling. He knew very well how long she waited. Only when she was sure they would not be returning a certain day did she leave and go elsewhere.

She shook his head in response to his brothers question, glancing at the younger man. "No. They've kept their distance, as most always do."

Glancing between the two, she noted some agitation still flickering across Malik's features. It came often when the man was annoyed with Altair. She wondered if something had gone wrong with their mission.

"I take it it went well?" She inquired, wondering what had happened this time.

----[x]----

William's eyes scanned the crowds of Boston. He had been here for quite some time, searching someone out. A Child of Misfortune was running through these streets. They were a rare sight now a days. Most had disappeared from the pages of history, some were mentioned as 'gods', but the majority had been put to death.

This one was rare, whoever she was. He had little doubt that the Templars would be searching for her as well. Perhaps they had already gone after her in the past. The woman was apparently sly enough to live on the streets, slip away with ease.

William shook his head at that. It was not uncommon for the Children of Misfortune to live like this. Some were sold, some lived worse lives then anyone could imagine. All for a single mistake.

As he strode down the street, his hands behind his back, he glanced at those passing by. There were no features that set them out from the others. William resisted a snort at this. Wherever she was hiding, she was clever enough not to be found or spotted so easily.

He turned his head, catching talk of someone nearby. Relief settled onto him when he realized that they spoke of the woman he was seeking out. He carried on, an air of confidence to him but no quicker then he had walked before.

It only took him a few minutes of walking to spot her. She moved with the crowds, as well as they would allow, biting into an apple. He adopted a bit of a quicker pace, only slowing when he was behind her.

"I'd certainly hope you paid for that." He commented out loud, studying the woman before him.

The startled expression that crossed her face as she whipped around had not surprised him. It was a natural reaction from anyone, after all. Still, catching her off guard might have been his best bet. If she tried to rush off, she was still within grabbing distance.

Subject: Re: [AC] Just a Dream [Reserved] Tue Jul 09, 2013 11:08 pm

Malik could only shake his head. Of course she'd waited here everyday, she always did. No matter how many times he tried to convince her not to it always resulted about the same as his recent argument with Kadar. He sighed. Rahat seemed to take pride in the fact that she waited.

"I would have thought you'd have things to do," he said, attempting not to sound agitated. It usually did little to bother Rahat, however, if he failed to.

"Good," Kadar answered, for the both of them. Oftentimes they had to remind people that Rahat was a person as well, not someone to be feared. Her ability and strange hair and eyes, however, put others off.

"It would have went better if not for Altair," scoffed Malik, his glare reappearing before he even realized it. The fire in his stomach was flared to life at the memory of it. Glancing at Kadar, Malik's scowl deepened at the look on the younger brother's face.

"Perhaps we would have been spotted either way," defended Kadar. "It is unfair to place the blame!"

"Not unless a tenet of the creed has been broken, Kadar." His rebuttal was firm, no nonsense. Kadar grew quiet after it, perhaps unsure or unwilling to answer back. Malik did not mind this. Altair did not need a defense. The man already got away with far too much.

Shaking his head again he attempted to put the situation behind him. One of these days Altair would grow too cocky and then he would be punished for it. Until that day Malik could only hope to try and curb the damage Altair might bring about.

"Have we missed anything within Masyaf while we were away?"

----[x]----

The voice that sounded behind her was not familiar. Sudden as it was, Les jumped, whirling around and stepping away quickly after. The man was not one she'd seen before though the way he had that hood pulled up over his head to shadow his face was familiar. Some of the others who had been after her had taken to obscuring their face in such a manner.

For a moment Les was caught off guard, mouth full of apple as this stranger waiting for her to say or do anything.

"Mmm bye!" And just like that she darted off without further warning.

Les kept low, barreling through a group of people to buy her a bit of time. She glanced over her shoulder, heart leaping up into her chest. He was keeping right on her. If Les wasn't quick enough he'd be able to make a grab at her!

Heart pounding in her chest Les hurried around a corner, dodging around a broken fence. Les stumbled a little, unaware that it had gotten broken. It had been in one piece just a week ago! Now, she had to find something else to dodge over, to break his line of sight-

Les couldn't bare to glance back, not now. She could hear his footsteps, closing in on her as it was.

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Rahat cupped her elbows behind her back. She didn't much mind Malik's reply. Truthfully, there was not much to do. She'd exhausted the majority of books among the city. Most would not indulge her in conversation and swords play was out of the question. She was not allowed near the weapons despite having expressed some interest in learning.

While there were some who attempted to keep her entertained, she wound up alone more days then not. Even women and children, who stuck together within Masyaf, did not approach her often. Every once in a while, a brave child would come about, perhaps dared by friends. Mothers or fathers quickly scolded them for staying too close.

It was an endless cycle, it seemed. Parents taught their children to give her a wide berth and no doubt, those children would do the same when they were older and had children of their own.

"Of course not," she responded, holding her head up high as if offended. "You are both my entertainment. I get bored when you are not around."

She didn't make mention that they were the only two who seemed to stick close to her for long periods of time. They allowed her to remain near, without expressing fear. Both seemed to know this but didn't often mention it themselves.

The argument was short, leaving Rahat to glance between the pair. She had quite a distaste for Altair, perhaps as much as Malik did. She did not voice this opinion in front of Kadar however. For whatever reason, he seemed to like him.

She shook her head at the next question. "Nothing new has cropped up," she answered. "Though, I suppose that much is a good thing."

These days, worries of the Templar's came about more often then not. Some had even approached her, asking if she'd 'seen' anything in her visions. Rahat had not and she preferred it that way. The Templars had expressed interest in people like her in the past, so she had heard. It worried her, knowing that she might be stolen away from this place.

----[x]----

The startled look that crossed her features was slightly amusing. He scoffed in annoyance, this young woman having dribbles of apple juice running down her face. William could not say anything toward it. She'd darted off, barely giving him a moments thought.

William shook his head at that. "Why do they always run?" He muttered to himself.

No sooner did this thought pass his lips did he dart after her. Any person who might have been in the way was easily shoved away. He couldn't afford to let anyone slow him down. For most, they would have expressed guilt for this act. He could not allow himself to feel that way.

He caught her glancing back once. The look of terror that crossed her expression was not missed. If she believed that he could not keep up with her, she was gravely mistaken.

She took a quick turn. William followed easily. Now, she had refused to look back. She stumbled to a bit of a halt when it seemed her normal escape route was in shambles. William reached out then, while she had slowed momentarily, and grabbed her arm. It was simple yanking her to a halt afterward.

His grip was loose considering but he would tighten it if he deemed she was struggling. Studying her expression, he could not miss the glare that had settled on her features. He shook his head slightly at that.

"Calm down," he insisted. "I am not making trouble because of one apple."

While he would have felt better knowing she wasn't a petty thief, that was not the case. She did what she had to to survive. William did his best to look passed that, though it was a difficulty in a whole.

"You are a Child of Misfortune, no doubt." He carried on. "I was sent to bring you to safety. I am asking for your cooperation. I can take you off these streets Miss...?"

William had been informed to look for this girl but was not given a name. He waited then, for not only her answer but for her name as well. He held out some hope that this would end without much trouble.

Subject: Re: [AC] Just a Dream [Reserved] Wed Jul 10, 2013 12:26 am

Malik scoffed, reaching up to tug the hood down from around his head. He was not on a mission and thus it was not needed. More times than not he forgot, however. It had long since become habit and a comfort to keep it up. He spied Kadar glancing at him before following suit, looking as if he had forgotten he had his gray hood up as well.

"I would have thought we were more valuable than that," Malik retorted.

"I am sure that we are," Kadar answered, scratching his cheek. His speech was stiff and Malik was distressed to realize he was attempting to mimic Altair's way of speaking.

"Nothing?" Malik echoed, turning back to the topic at hand. He did not particularly enjoy getting riled up, despite what many might have thought.

"No new... visions then, either?" Kadar prodded curiously.

It had been a term that had been best to use for the things that Rahat saw. Things that might happen, inventions, they were just a few of the things that popped into Rahat's head. It was because of this that Al Mualim had ordered a group of assassins to whisk her here and out of reach of Templar hands.

Malik mused briefly over how much happier she seemed now over when she had first been brought here. It was rare to see her smile or laugh though she was definitely much more relaxed than at first.

"I am sure that anything she might have seen of importance she would have already shared with the Master," Malik said. At least, he hoped so. Any information that might help the Brotherhood was vital. He hoped that Rahat was well aware of that and of how important it was to the A-Sayf brothers, even if it was not to her.

----[x]----

Les's breath caught in her throat, heart skipping a beat when she felt a hand over her skinny arm yanking her back easily. A startled sound escaped her, her back hitting the stranger's chest and halting her with no injury. Almost immediately she attempted to dart away again, only to be kept in place, his grip tightening to ensure it.

She glared up at him, jaw set. She was not supposed to be caught, her papa had told her so before he had passed years before. Her heart hammered against her chest and Les was amazed that it did not echo in her ears.

She grunted, stepping away. He at least allowed her that much, though his grip on her arm remained. Les took the opportunity to wipe the apple juice from her chin off on the back of her hand. She had figured it was not because of the apple, she wasn't stupid. Many others, hooded and otherwise, had come for her, promising many things before she'd ran off, losing them quickly.

He seemed to enjoy talking, or perhaps it was Les's impatience that made it seem that way. Reciting back to her what she was, of course she was a Misfortune's Child, why else would everyone give her such a wide berth when they could? She scoffed.

It took her a moment to answer him when he trailed off, fishing for her name. She'd long since forgotten hers. No one bothered to ask her what it had been and Les had been so young at the time of her father's passing that it wasn't a surprise. The one she had now? It was merely something the locales had taken to calling her, when they deemed fit to, of course.

Finally she said, "Les."

There was a moment of confusion on his part and Les could see it, plain as day on his face. Perhaps he was wondering why she was saying something that sounded like "less" and wondering about what she might mean about it. Les said nothing, however, despite this. Understanding soon dawned on his face anyways, without any help from her.

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She was a tad glad when Malik tugged his hood around his shoulders. She had not admitted it, but he was quite handsome in her view. Rahat wasn't sure if it was the best idea to even speak of these found feelings, as deep as they were. She had often wondered if it would be 'taboo' to get involved with her.

It left her a tad sad to think about in the end. Like many others, she had wants and needs for affection. Rarely were these things given to her.

"Of course you are." She responded, a little more warmth in her tone then she probably should have allowed.

She let her hands fall back to her side, shaking her head. She had not missed the way Kadar had spoken but dismissed it. She did not want to ruffle any feathers.

"No," she replied. "They haven't come as regular as used to. I am... a little worried about it."

Through the years, she'd become accustom to these things. They had never just stopped. Perhaps something would crop up that night. Part of her greatly hoped for it.

"I have already spoken with the Master several times since you've both been gone. We have...kept silent about it. Some might view it as an ill omen..."

It was not so uncommon, after all. Any excuse that one could crop up and they were on her case. Rahat hated it but there was not much she could do about the act in the end.

----[x]----

He had waited patiently for her to speak. The young woman seemed to take great pains in stalling, even wiping at her mouth with the back of her hand. William resisted mentioning the dirt that smeared over her face as she did so.

The glare did not lessen, despite the time that had passed. Eventually a name was given. It wasn't much of a 'name' at all, but it would do.

"Les," he started again. "As I had said, I am hear to take you off the streets. The Brotherhood will take care of you."

Of course, this seemed to be in exchange for the knowledge she may have. These Children of Misfortune had visions of shorts. They would see and hear things that were further ahead of their time. Of places and people and great cities. Still, what other potentials they had were yet to be unlocked, it seems.

"No doubt you are tired of it, hmmm?" He pressed. "A young lady resorting to common thievery to get by. And I am sure there is a pretty face behind all that dirt."

It was his attempt to be 'warm', in a way. William had come from a noble family. As such, he did not take too lightly to those such as herself. Women were meant to be dressed accordingly and clean. He tried to remember that whatever family she had was long since gone.

William was aware that he had to tread carefully over some of these topics however. They could still be a sore spot for her. Many others had no doubt offered her similar things, Templars and Assassin's alike.

Subject: Re: [AC] Just a Dream [Reserved] Wed Jul 10, 2013 1:17 am

The way her voice had sounded softer, warmer even, did not escape Malik's notice. He said nothing of it. There were times that it appeared and then was gone next she spoke. Whatever Rahat felt for him was left unelaborated on, however. With Kadar there he would not prod for an answer, either.

He reached out, patting her shoulder briefly. It was the best he could muster, especially out in the open. "I am sure," he agreed, his own voice a little softer.

A glance at Kadar showed that the younger man had taken to politely looking away, as if something more were happening. A scoff escaped Malik at that. He was definitely the shyer of the two though Malik never teased him for it. Then again Malik wasn't much to tease another.

"I am sure it's nothing," answered Kadar, turning back with a smile in place. "If it were something to worry about I am sure that Al Mualim would have talked to you about it already."

"That is wise," Malik complimented with a nod. He was glad that Rahat was able to think logically about such things.

Then again she'd been a Child of Misfortune most of her life, since she'd accidentally touched something she shouldn't have. Why these treasures reacted like this to only certain people was beyond anyone's guess. Perhaps that is why Al Mualim liked to keep her near as well, to sate his curiosity. Malik did not question the Master, however.

"Rahat, would you like to go for a walk? You must be stiff from sitting on this wall all day!" Kadar offered, gesturing for the three of them to start off towards the keep.

----[x]----

Les waited silently as he took to speaking again. It didn't escape her notice that he'd failed to give his own name in return. She resisted calling him out on it, at least at the moment. No doubt he already figured her to be some uncouth brat for living as she did. Many others had, after all.

The frown marring her expression, alongside the dirt and grime, did not budge. In fact, this man seemed to be taking great pains to appeal to her on some level. Les clutched at her partially eaten apple in response, shuffling her weight from foot to foot.

His ending note left her heart picking up pace, if only a little. Les was a thing to be avoided by many people's standards. Such flattery, veiled as it was to butter her up and make her more compliant, was not something that she was accustomed to. It left her uncertain.

Ducking her head to allow her bangs to better hide her face she took a small bite of her apple instead of answering right away. She chewed thoughtfully, still very much aware of this man's grip on her arm, though it had loosened considerably since she'd stopped attempting to pull away from him. Only when she'd swallowed did she looked back up, her hair in her face as it usually was. Les had never bothered attempting to tame it. Why would she?

"How does one get tired of the only thing they know?" she retorted simply. A pause. It was a small lie. The things she 'saw' gave her glimpses of what a better life could be like, after all. Instead of dwelling on that she said, "Your name."

Les did not particularly care how much of a demand it sounded. He had hers and now she wanted the 'favor' returned.

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Rahat felt a warmth in her. His voice was a little softer, a far cry from his usual tone of voice. She rather liked seeing this side of him, even if it was just a glimpse at times. He wasn't all hard, as some viewed him. Rahat had seen enough of his softer side to know that much.

She couldn't help but smile as Kadar looked away. The younger man seemed quite a bit bashful. She found herself a little glad about it. Most of the men seemed too confident at times for their own good.

She nodded toward the reassurance. Rahat had to admit, that much was true. If it had been something desperately needed to address, Al Mualim would have expressed some sense of worry over it. The thought helped settle her mind a little.

Rahat folded her hands easily, giving a nod at the suggestion. She couldn't deny being a tad stiff. She typically moved about quite often as it was.

"I would love to," she responded lightly.

As they started off, she couldn't help but tug at Kadar's robes a little. "So, when will you teach me how to preform one of those Leap's of Faith you are all so fond of doing?" She teased.

Both, and many others, knew that she was not to try such feats. It was all in a bid to keep her safe. Regardless, that didn't stop her from prodding others to show her once in a while.

----[x]----

William watched her carefully. She seemed to recoil, if only a little. Ducking her head, he wondered what was going through her mind. She seemed unaccustomed to his words. He wasn't surprised by this. It seemed she'd been on the streets for a very long time.

Still, he waited as patiently as he could allow himself. There was no point in rushing things. The most he might achieve that way is putting her off. He couldn't allow that to happen. It had been a hassle simply finding her.

Several long moments passed before she finally lifted her head. He frowned, mulling over what she had said. He couldn't believe her words.

"I have no doubt that you have caught glimpses of other lives," he argued, if a little more gently then before. "It's not so hard to miss."

She asked for his own name. In the excitement, he hadn't realized he didn't give it. William shook his head at this.

"I apologize," he started. "My name is William de Saint-Prix."

He studied her face, wondering what she thought of him. For most, his name could be considered a 'mouth full' but he was quite proud of it. He had reason to be, after all.

Subject: Re: [AC] Just a Dream [Reserved] Wed Jul 10, 2013 1:33 pm

Malik was glad that Rahat agreed for a walk. It wasn't healthy, just sitting around as she was. Malik took the lead, as was usual. Kadar and Rahat were never far behind as it was, sticking near his side. His brow rose as he turned to survey the two after Rahat had spoken.

For his part, Kadar looked unnerved at the question. True, the assassins performed a great leap and survived the fall. Malik wasn't even sure how they managed that most times. All they could do was take it on good faith that this was the way they were meant to live because of it. It did not mean that any number of things could go wrong. Leaping wrongly could end with broken legs or spines.

"I would think that's not for the best," Kadar answered carefully in that stilted mimicry of Altair. Malik scowled at that but said nothing of it.

"Is there no other feats that you have attempted instead?" Malik prodded, hoping to put her mind off it for the time being. "I am sure Kadar would love to teach you when there is time."

Others might not wish to but that did not mean the A-Sayf brothers could not teach Rahat in their spare time, away from prying eyes. Throwing knives, swordplay; they would not need to be taken seriously, for Rahat to join the Assassin ranks, merely it could be used to keep her occupied and content.

"I am sure that if it does not interfere with other tasks that no one will mind," Kadar agreed, bobbing his head up and down animatedly.

----[x]----

Les's scowl deepened at this man's rebuttal. He was determined, unwilling to admit any sort of defeat until she agreed, but agreed to what? The majority treated her as a thing to be avoided so why were there these fellows and what appeared to be their enemies after her so badly? Les was not important, she never had been.

Still, the gentle tone of voice did not go unnoticed either. What had him trying this tact over the others she'd witnessed? Les was left off guard, uncertain.

Instead of answering him she waited, instead receiving his name for her troubles. It was a bit of a mouthful, even noble in sound. Les tugged at her arm, annoyed to find he still would not let go. Would he ever until an agreement was made?

Les attempted not to bristle. Children of Misfortune were oftentimes blasphemed though among some noblemen and women they were clamored for. A rarity as they were, as she was, it was common that a noble would try to tempt her into becoming 'theirs.' Whether this meant as a slave or something more it always left a sour taste in Les's mouth. This felt no different.

"A noble?" she voiced. Les's grip on her half-eaten apple was tight, her knuckles white. "Come to give me your leftovers then? Or perhaps I am to be some sort of a fuckin' pet!"

She tugged again at her arm, glaring at William. If he was startled by the bitterness he did not show it. What had he expected, however? Les only knew the side of the upper classes that she was shown, that they wanted everything and at times that included her. Her pride felt wounded at that, that anyone would assume that she would trade herself as some pet or item to be obtained for a scrap of food and a bed to sleep in. She had her dignity, despite her street rat lifestyle.

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A pout marred her features, though it wasn't much. Rahat never had it in her to really complain. Despite how many gave her a wide berth, she didn't want to take the kindness she'd received and simply throw it straight back.

The suggestion of trying other things did not go missed by her however. She perked up a little more, glancing toward Malik. She'd asked in the past, asked others but it had all ended the same.

"Oh, you would teach me something different then?" She prodded, a little more cheerful. "Then we will have to find the time to."

The assassin's were still busy people, despite having some time to themselves. Most took to training, others had matters they had to attend to. Many had families of their own as well.

She never admitted it but at times, she found herself a little jealous of those families. If hers had not simply abandoned her, things might have turned out differently.

----[x]----

Les seemed to take her time, processing his name. She would no doubt recognize that it was one of nobility. Most did, after all. He refrained from giving it too often. People were wary of his kind, in the end or simply put on a face. He had been all too aware of it in recent years.

He waited then. She tugged at her arm, wanting him to release his grip. William refused to do so until the time was right. He couldn't trust that she wouldn't simply dart away again.

The response he was met with didn't quite shake him. If he was a pettier man, his pride might have taken a heavy blow. He was thankfully not this kind of man. He might have been confident but he was not so petty with women.

Still, he couldn't resist a hard frown. "Quite a mouth on you," he responded.

His grip had tightened, if only a little bit. He couldn't let her go, not after going through the trouble of tracking her down.

"Relax," he carried on. "My intentions are not to 'own' you. I was merely sent by the Brotherhood. The assassin's. Our job is to keep those such as yourself safe, though there are very few of you in the first place."

That much was true. Many Children of Misfortune where seen as witches. Even before these times, paranoia of witchcraft had swept several areas. Many had died for a simple mistake.

"How long until someone comes to put you to death, hmm?" He said. "You are an oddity but you are not evil. We only offer you safety."

Subject: Re: [AC] Just a Dream [Reserved] Wed Jul 10, 2013 4:27 pm

Malik shrugged, avoiding answering Rahat right away. If it wasn't too dangerous for her or Al Mualim did not put a stop to it then he saw no reason not to teach her something new. At least this way if she was taken she would have some sort of defense. They couldn't rule out the possibility that someone outside of Masyaf might catch wind of the fact that a Child of Misfortune was here.

"We might start with something simple, perhaps throwing knives," offered Malik.

"The dummies are not used so much, now that the recent batch of rookies have been graduated," Kadar noted, if a little proud of himself for knowing it. Sometimes Malik wondered if he felt left out when he was not kept in the loop. He shook his head at that.

"Yes, that would be wise," agreed Malik.

He glanced Rahat's way again. She seemed pleased to be able to take to something from the Assassins, even something that they all learned from a young age. She did not have the same privileges that the Assassins did, after all. Many in Masyaf still avoided her if they could help it.

"We will see what might be done after I have spoken to Al Mualim," Malik carried on. Though Altair would have relayed the news of the success Malik had to be sure to pass along what had gone wrong and what he thought might be done about it. Altair could not be allowed to get off without any repercussions, after all.

----[x]----

Les scoffed. Of course she was mouthy, all street rats were. They had to be tough to get by and if throwing around an attitude was part of that then they did, no matter what they might have been like otherwise. Oftentimes it were those kids that were kinder and softer than the others that did not make it. Les had seen it often enough to know.

"You say that as if anyone hasn't tried already," she hissed.

It was not a foreign concept. For as many nobles might have wanted to keep her as a pet just as many were wary and superstitious and ordered mercenaries after her. It was partly the reason she darted off before anyone could grow too near. William had been no different in her mind.

She was quiet for a moment. In a way she'd already been caught. William refused to release her arm, keeping her here. Les could easily kick out at him but what would that entail? It could only make him hostile and if he caught her once...

Les scoffed again. If she had had anything to be proud of in this life it had been the fact that she'd remained so elusive. Now that had been pissed away.

"You talk about safety but you've done nothing to reinforce the idea," she sniffed. "Why should I trust you over others?"

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Rahat couldn't deny the joy bubbling inside of her. She was enthusiastic, wanted to know more of these people and their tactics. So few approached her, Rahat could never really try. It would be nice to learn something new.

She kept pace with them quite easily. Malik would speak with Al Mualim, more then likely mentioned that Altair had made another mistake. Whatever it was, it had been a mystery to her. Rahat didn't ask much of Altair. She knew that he was troublesome and reckless.

"Then that's what we shall do if we are allowed." She mused lightly.

She was rather excited for it. Something new would have been nice, something to distract herself with. Sometimes, her own thoughts clouded her head. Worse times in her life, demon's she'd shoved away, assaulted her, especially toward the night.

If she was able, she would have liked to have something new to keep those thoughts away. She just hoped no one else would catch wind of it. A woman, much less someone like herself, taking interesting in combat was very uncommon. Some could go out of their way to bother her about it.

----[x]----

William had been prepared for the resistance he was met with. Others had tried the same, no doubt. There were Assassin's who told him this as well. She was a fiery one and had to be simply to survive.

While he did not agree with it, the language and otherwise, he knew that it was simply how she had grown up. She had very little and had to steal to live. What more could she had done?

William shook his head at the argument. He released her arm, leaving her to do as she pleased. If she darted off, William would have simply have to chase after or persuade her another day. He had not expected this to be easy, after all.

"You do not have to trust me at all," he answered simply with a shrug. "I am simply a messenger. I was told to find you and I have. It is up to you to follow along if you wish."

While he knew if he returned empty handed, he would more or less get hell for it, making it on her terms might sway her. It was obvious that many had tried bribing and forcing her in the past. This would reinforce her to make the decision on her own.

"It is up to you," he carried on. "To do as you wish to."

Subject: Re: [AC] Just a Dream [Reserved] Wed Jul 10, 2013 5:12 pm

It was hard to miss the way her whole face seemed to light up. Perhaps it was even for the first time since he'd met her. Malik did not point this out, instead shaking his head and turning away to hide the way a smile tugged at his lips. Moods could be infectious and hers were no different, after all. Malik had even caught sight of Kadar smiling brightly, after all.

"Perhaps I could go ahead and start while you speak to the Master," Kadar offered. "Nothing advanced, of course! Just the basics, some information while we wait."

Malik did not doubt that Al Mualim would allow it, so long as it did not interfere with anything. It was still good that Kadar was being cautious about it. There was no need for rushing things, especially when it came to Rahat. She had plenty of time, after all.

"I do not see why that can't be," Malik said with a nod. Already the gates that hid the Assassins away from the rest of Masyaf were in sight. Malik was grateful, his calves protesting the steep slope they had to climb to reach it. "As long as no one creates a fuss over it, that is."

He didn't think that anyone would though he couldn't be sure of that. There were some who were petty in the Brotherhood. It took all kinds, after all, even if he didn't agree with it.

----[x]----

He seemed to take a moment to reply, eventually releasing her arm. Les took the opportunity to put several steps between them. The apple in her hand had long since been forgotten. Her stomach would protest later, demanding more food when everything had been settled.

Les watched him carefully, annoyed that so much of his face was obscured by shadows. It was easy to hide something with that alone. Was there something she might miss because of those shadows the hat and hood provided him?

It took a long moment before Les said anything in return. William was watching her, perhaps ready to dart after her if she tried to run off. There was no saying if he would even find her another day anyways, waiting for her guard to drop again.

"And what would following entail?" She spoke tentatively, unsure of what might happen if she did agree to what William said. She was dirty and tatty, her hair an untamed mess. Les wasn't fit to go about where this man might, to follow after him as he said if she even agreed to.

Unbidden, she began to toy with the apple, a thoughtful frown in place on her face.

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The suggestion was enough for Rahat. She very much wanted to try this. She wanted to learn from them. Even if it was simply for a hobby, she wanted to try.

She thought, perhaps in a way, she wanted someone to be proud of her as well. She didn't receive much praise. Trying something new, something that she could get go at, she wondered if perhaps that would warrant some kind of attention on her.

Of course, there was always the negative as well. She certainly did hope that Altair or others who quite liked him didn't catch wind of these activities.

These thoughts were shoved in the back of her head. No sooner did the suggestion come up did she take Kadar's hand in both of her own. It was a simple thing to quicken her pace to overtake his own. She'd nearly dragged him at one point.

"Well, let's go." She pressed cheerfully. "Malik, if you are not busy later, you come too!"

Rahat would have felt better if both brothers were there. Regardless Kadar and Malik did have responsibilities. She understood that and tried not to bother them too often.

----[x]----

William waited patiently. She quickly put several steps in between them, though she did not run. He found himself quite relieved over this fact. If she had chosen to run, there would simply be more problems.

He watched her carefully. She seemed to be mulling it over. William did not mind this. It was better that she do this rather then run off. He would rather her think it through in the end.

William cupped his elbows behind his back, straightening his stance. He eyed her as she turned the apple carefully. If this was a nervous habit or otherwise, he couldn't tell. He didn't much mull over it. That wasn't important.

"Aside from your safety and shelter, you mean?" He said in return. "I will be honest. As you are, you catch glimpses of the future, correct? Strange things entering your mind? For both the Brotherhood and the Templar's, you play an important role."

He shook his head, watching her expression. He knew that he was going into far too much detail. If this scared her off, he would have to track her down again.

"The Templar's will come for you," he carried on. "And they will take away what freedom you have, by force if need be. You will not be able to elude them forever."

William felt he had a valid argument. She seemed a tad bull headed however. It might take more to convince someone like her. He could only assume at this point in time.

Subject: Re: [AC] Just a Dream [Reserved] Thu Jul 11, 2013 11:11 pm

Malik couldn't deny that he rather liked that joyous look on Rahat's face. Never before had he seen her so eager or even just excited. Even the way she grew happy over their return paled in comparison to this. He could not help but to smile himself, however small it might be.

"I will be sure to," he promised with a wave. Already Rahat had taken to dragging Kadar off by his arm. "Take care not to alarm anyone!"

Kadar picked up his pace, keeping up with Rahat. She was already making a beeline for the straw dummies used for throwing knife practice. In the ring nearby there were a few Assassins sparring, the sound of metal clanging rising into the air. Occasionally Kadar could hear the instructor making corrections or giving hints.

He tugged at a knife, the blade easily slipping form the leather sheath at his belt. He did not hold as many on hand at one time as the highest ranking Assassins but a few would do. They would merely retrieve them after each attempt.

"Have you held one before?" he inquired. The weight alone could mess with someone's throw, especially if they were just learning. "The weight is in the handle and that is where you will be holding when you throw."

He wouldn't teach her the way they threw, merely allowing the knife to slide from their hand. Kadar was worried that Rahat might slice her hand that way. No, a bit of overhead throwing would work for now, to at least get her some sort of a bearing.

Any looks that were sent there way were ignored, for the most part. Kadar could still feel the occasional stare, burning at his back and causing him to grow uncomfortable. He hoped that wouldn't effect his teaching. He'd never had anyone to look up to him before and he wanted to do a good job.

----[x]----

Les blinked, her gaze still on William. The future? Les hadn't been sure what they were. No one would ever answer her when she asked, instead dismissing it as dark magic or madness. She'd long since stopped asking when she was still young.

The things she saw, they were all so foreign and strange. Tall buildings, odd music and even strange devices that ran on their own power! What was she supposed to make of them. It was all so far ahead of their time...

Les began to juggle the apple from hand to hand, wary of speaking up about that. But was it really true? Les was wary of appearing ignorant in some way in front of this man. Many nobles already looked down upon her for her dirty appearance and attitude. Les liked to think she was smart to make up for those things, though.

Carefully, she said "Is that what they are...?"

She shook her head soon after. Assassins and Templars, it all sounded as fantastical as the things she saw! Still, it seemed the side William aligned himself with had her well being in better mind than these Templars. But that would mean following after, straying into places she would never be allowed as dirty and untamed as she was.

Her gaze drifted down, a frown falling into place on her lips. Her appetite was forgotten, instead Les was too taken with mulling all of this through. She'd never been particularly conscious of her appearance, not after the first year of being on the streets and growing accustomed to it. Now, spying all the dirt on her hands alone, Les suddenly felt very small.

Les wasn't sure how to bring that topic up. He was a noble, he'd practically said it himself already. Les didn't want to feel as if she was accepting his scraps.

"I am just a street rat," she began just as carefully as before. "Who would even allow me passage anywhere?"

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Rahat was glad to be moving toward the arena. A few others lingered around but she ignored them, just as they attempted to do for her. Rahat had long since learned how to do this, having been the oddity she was for the majority of her life.

She was happy to hear Malik would come around when he could. It had been a long while since she'd felt so excited, happy even. It seemed a rare thing when neither were around.

Finally coming to a halt, she watched Kadar slip the knife from his belt, holding it out to her. She shook her head in response to the question.

"I have not," she replied. She let the knife's handle slip into her palm. It was heave but not so heavy that it bothered her.

From there, the lesson would begin. Rahat did her best to listen. When he corrected her, she did her best to mimic what he told her to do. Even coming to failure on and off, Rahat didn't mind it. Making mistakes only mean she had much to learn.

For the most part, they were not bothered. Rahat would catch the sound of scoffs or small taunts, meant to be whispers. She didn't let them bother her, blocked it out. It was one of the many things she had to learn to live with.

----[x]----

William frowned, resisting pacing. This was becoming a tad more drawn out then he would feel comfortable with. Anyone could be sending word to Templar's. Perhaps they had been spotted already. He kept a wary eye out, just in case.

He gave a simple nod in response to her first words. It seemed even she hadn't known what she was seeing. She might have been pushed to believed she was simply mad. It wouldn't have surprised him.

She still seemed to mull it all over. If the information had been too much, she didn't mention it. It was quite a lot to take in. William couldn't deny that much. She would have her doubts. He worried if she didn't.

William cleared his throat at her next doubts. He shook his head slightly. It seemed that she not only was stubborn but had issues with her confidence. At least, when it came to her appearance.

"You will be cleaned up," he responded, motioning toward her. "Speaking of which, Les is not much of a name...Perhaps you would like a real one?"

He shifted his weight a little allowing his hand to fall back to his side. If she found it strange, William did not pay it mind. She might have never been shown this kind of interest, after all.

"I am quite fond of the name Claudia," he suggested. "If you don't mind that, I would quite like to give you that name."

Subject: Re: [AC] Just a Dream [Reserved] Fri Jul 12, 2013 1:14 am

Kadar wasn't sure how much time passed. It seemed like the sun had made a great chunk of its travel through the sky before Malik would arrive. Many had come to watch the spectacle, eager to see how the Misfortune's Child would learn or react.

He had worked to grow less uncomfortable with the passersby. It was so hard when they kept stopping to watch, however, their stares causing his neck hairs to stand on end. A couple of time she had fumbled his own throws because of this attention, well aware of the words that might be passed in response.

Rahat seemed to make varying progress on her throws. A fair few she had managed to sink into the dummy but many were tossed to off-target. Some sailed right over it while one in particularly had sunk right into the ground a good foot in front of it. Kadar did his best to correct her throws, showing her from time to time as well.

"What sort of progress have we made while I was away?" Malik called out, pushing his way through the crowds. It was a small one, just a few sitting by and passing time by watching Rahat and Kadar.

Kadar's gaze lifted, a grin following suit on his face a moment later. "No worse than any others, that is for sure!"

Malik chuckled, shaking his head. "Is that so?" He turned his attention to Rahat, gesturing to her in the process. "And what do you think?"

----[x]----

Les could spy William shifting his weight. If he was conscious that he'd done this she couldn't say for sure. Perhaps he was resisting doing or saying something as she took in his words. The things that he said gave her much to think about, leaving her conflicted.

So many others had come for her and yet here he was, apparently giving her some sort of a choice. How real it might be was beyond her knowledge. Perhaps it was merely some sort of trick, to make her believe she had a choice. She shook her head.

Her gaze remained on the half-eaten apple when William took to answering. Her heart was pounding, echoing in her ears. She found herself more apprehensive over what he might say than she thought she would be. Perhaps the things he offered meant more to her than she'd once realized.

At the mention of names, she peeked up at him through her bangs. Her brow furrowed at his offer, head inclining to one side as she lifted it higher up to better watch him.A real name?

Before she could answer he had carried on, mentioning a name he claimed to like. Les blinked, apple forgotten about yet again. Claudia...? William seemed sincere in the offer and the fact that he was fond of the name. Her heart thumped strangely in her chest, feeling as if it was skipping a beat and her face felt warm now that she thought about it. If he was so fond of it then why was he going to give it away to some street rat? Despite this she could not draw her eyes away from him, at a loss for words.

"I," she paused, lowering her gaze. Even now it was difficult to accept, if only because of what he was. Quietly she said "I wouldn't mind."

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Rahat tried not to let spectators bother her. She would catch a few chuckles, even taunts, when a knife would not hit it's mark. If she hadn't been used to this in the past, it would have bothered her long ago.

She believed she had managed the first lesson with an incredible amount of patience. She didn't get frustrated and listened when Kadar spoke. She observed him, trying to mimic what he did. Aside from the slight pain in her arm, she was rather unbothered by much else.

She hoped that Kadar wasn't bothered too much by this as well. Unlike her, he was more then likely not used to the stares and whispers. If it left him nervous, he chose not to mention it.

Rahat wasn't sure how much time had passed. It was a relief to her when Malik's voice cut through, asking for her progress. Her gaze turned toward him, a smile on her lips.

"Well, I would like to think I am doing well," she boasted lightly. "I will take Kadar's word for it as well!"

She felt proud of herself in a way. She'd accomplished something, even if it was average at best. That was enough for her.

----[x]----

William tilted his head to one side lightly. He had to wonder what she was thinking. She seemed to take things into careful consideration. It didn't surprise him. Being who she was, what she was, she couldn't afford to be anything but careful.

Still, he waited quietly. It took quite a long while before she even looked at him again. It was only a brief thing, looking from through her bangs. She seemed to glance at him this way quite often.

It was a dismissed observation however. He didn't so much mind the way she acted. In fact, he understood it in a way. What had she done most of her life? Steal and hide away. She couldn't afford to do much more then that.

He folded his arms behind his back again. A slight smile tugged at his lips when she finally spoke. At least she accepted the name.

"Well then, Claudia." He began. "What would you like to do?"

It was still up to her. If she wished to follow or not, William would not press her to make a rushed decision. He didn't want her regretting it or trying to run away. The Brotherhood could not afford letting that happen.

Subject: Re: [AC] Just a Dream [Reserved] Fri Jul 12, 2013 5:07 pm

A few of the spectators had wandered off when Malik had arrived. Rahat was not making any more throws and thus there was nothing to observe. It was free entertainment and though many flocked here because of who was throwing the knives it was often that the new recruits were watched for such amusement as well.

His gaze flickered between the two briefly. Kadar looked a little bashful, perhaps because of the eyes on them. Rahat, however, still looked so alive and ready to try more throws. Malik shook his head.

"Perhaps a demonstration...?"

Kadar scratched at his cheek, glancing Rahat's way. "What do you say?"

Malik wondered if Kadar was worried about teaching Rahat. He was still of the lower ranks, after all, a journeymen actually. Still, he wandered to the target, yanking out a knife he might have thrown and the two that had littered the ground. As he jogged back to them Malik had taken to speaking to Rahat again.

"And how was Kadar's teaching method so far?" he interrogated. If it went poorly it meant that Kadar might need a bit of work himself. Malik would spare the boy the embarrassment of it in front of others if that was the case. It was easy to sneak back here at night, when others were preoccupied with resting.

"Did you manage to make any stick in the target?"

Many, if the blade did not go whizzing right by, could hit the target though the blade would not stick or it would bounce off by the handle instead. Until one figured out how to flick their wrist and release the knife at the right time it was a common occurrence.

----[x]----

She shuffled her weight from foot to foot, braving another glance William's way. Les—no, no, Claudia was surprised to see that he did not appear smug in anyway. Instead there was a smile there, as small as it was. She wasn't sure how to feel about that. Smug she could deal with, had expected. It was how the nobles often acted, at least the ones who crossed her path. How was she supposed to deal with this one if he was nothing like the others?

It took her a moment to answer again, taking in the way he'd used that name again—her name. Claudia (Funny, how she had to keep reminding herself that it was her name now.) felt warmth bloom in her chest, however small it was over it. Did other people feel this way when someone said their name? Or was it simply because she had long since forgotten what it was like to have a real one?

Claudia shook the thought away. He'd asked her a question, rather prodded for an answer again. Still, it was a far cry from the more self-assured way the other shad expected her to accept without any thought on the matter.

Perhaps a little reluctantly she said "You said something about getting cleaned up first...?"

It was strange, accepting anything from this man, this noble. She supposed she could run off if he did anything unsavory, anything that went against what he'd promised. Until then Claudia could play along. Maybe she would be able to have a full meal for once in however many years.

It was only when William would start them off that she would trail along, still feeling apprehensive. Claudia busied herself with her apple, finishing it off along the way and tossing the core off to the side of the dirt street.

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Rahat gave a slight nod in response toward Kadar. She would gladly allow a demonstration. She didn't so much mind it, having seen many spectators as it was. Malik might have been a full fledged assassin but that didn't scare her. Perhaps in that sense, she had more confidence then she realized.

She blinked back toward him as he approached. It was a simple question. Rahat smiled in returned, brushing her bangs out of her face.

"I think he is a good teacher," she answered. "He is patient and explains most things in an understanding manner."

It wouldn't take long for Kadar to approach them again. The next question brought about wasn't a few moments after. Rahat didn't mind. He was the one asking. She would have spared any time for him.

She shook her head slightly. "Most fell and I threw quite a few over. One did stick but fell a few moments later. It is alright though. I will do better next time!"

Rahat felt determined to do so. Perhaps it was simply the enthusiasm of doing something new. Regardless of the reason, she didn't much care. She was glad to be spending time doing something else. It had been a long while since she'd been able to do this much, after all, especially with both brothers.

----[x]----

Claudia took her time again. William was forced to keep an eye out around them. Neither couldn't afford to be put off guard. He worried still that others might remain nearby. For the moment, he did his best to quash that thought.

Glancing back toward her, he tilted his head. Among the dirt smeared on her face, her cheeks had tinted pink slightly. He felt himself grow a little smug over that fact. He knew how to treat women, noble or otherwise. It was easy to say that Claudia was no different in that sense.

When she spoke up, he gave a simple nod in response to her words. He would motion for her to follow. It would no doubt appear strange to most who would pass by within the area. Regardless, William paid them no mind.

"We can get you cleaned up now, if you wish." He answered in return.

He took a few steps forward, glancing at her to see if she would follow. He waited on her then. It was still very much her choice. He would wait until she followed before he would start fully himself.

From there, it would be a short walk to another building. It was one of many stationed by the Brotherhood. Those within would know what he was doing. Word would spread fast. William tried to quash his pride at that. No point in viewing this girl as a prize. She had a distaste for that, it appeared.

Subject: Re: [AC] Just a Dream [Reserved] Fri Jul 12, 2013 11:27 pm

Malik nodded, glad to know that Kadar was doing something well off outside his training. The younger brother tried so hard to catch up, to reach the higher rank just as his idol had that it sometimes seemed that he was forgetting everything else. Other things were important, after all. What good would all that training do if he had no other skills elsewhere? It was a weight off of Malik's shoulder, to say the least.

"I am glad to hear it," he said.

Despite the lack of many knives sticking in the target Rahat seemed quite pleased. Perhaps it was merely the act of learning and being able to put it to practice that kept her so happy. Malik was glad to see it happen. At least she had something now, so long as no one viewed it as problematic.

He gestured to the dummy as Kadar returned, handing the three knives off to Rahat again. "Perhaps a showcase of your throwing technique might help me get an idea of how you've learned today," he noted.

"It was merely overhand throwing," Kadar answered. Perhaps he feared teaching the wrong thing. "Nothing too difficult!"

"A good call," Malik complimented, clasping a hand over Kadar's shoulder. This eased Kadar, as far as Malik could tell, at least.

----[x]----

Claudia grunted, taking a hesitant step after William. "I don't see how I would be allowed anywhere else-wise."

It was true enough. She was dirty and wild, nothing like the other women and girls in Boston. Claudia was turned away at every store or stall because they all could tell she had no money or manners. As much as the nobles expensive clothes marked them for what they were so, too, did the dirt and tatty dress on Claudia. It was a beacon, really.

Her steps were tentative as she followed along. Her feet could grow no dirtier then they already were on the dirt paths. In the silence that followed Claudia turned to finishing her apple. It was simple to toss the core aside, missing whatever look William shot her way for it.

It was a short walk in that silence. The building they came to was one Claudia had glimpsed often though had never paid any real attention to. It was just another building she was not allowed in, or so she had figured. It was that way for everywhere else and thus the mindset had stuck.

She would noticeably stop, examining the building for a long moment. It was hard to break the habit, to follow William up the few steps and inside. At that point she had already tensed, peering around herself cautiously. She fully expected to be told to leave, despite whatever William might say.

Claudia could hear someone in the hallway, fussing with something or other. Another woman, by the sound of the voice as she hummed. Claudia's head inclined to one side, brow furrowing. Why were they here? She shot William a curious look, still noticeably keeping a sizable distance between them.

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Rahat smiled in return to his words. It was good to know that he believed his younger brother was doing well. She worried over him. He was chasing after Altair. Rahat had to wonder if he felt inferior if he didn't manage to gain the rank as quickly Altair did.

She hoped that was not the case. She cared for Kadar as he was. She didn't want to see him change or become like Altair.

It didn't take Kadar long to return. She allowed the knives to slip back into her hands easily. The weight didn't seem to be a propionate now. Still, her arm was beginning to ache. It was, no doubt something she would simply need to get used to in time.

Rahat was happy to show off what she learned. It wasn't much, not in her view. Still, she felt a great amount of joy in it, as simple as it was. IIt had only taken her a few moments before they were at it again.

Over time, she had gained quite a bit of knowledge from both brothers. She was glad that they both were kind enough to teach. As time went on, one knife did finally stick. She grinned proudly at this, more then happy enough to know even one knife had stuck.

----[x]----

William had led her through the building quietly. No one stopped them. He was rather grateful for it. Getting Claudia attended to and dressed in something more appropriate. she seemed to be feeling awkward enough as it was.

Eventually, he would stop at a room, taking a few steps back. He blinked as she raised her head toward him. The confusion that marred her features was enough to make him crack a small smirk.

She seemed to have some trouble understanding. He shook his head, motioning toward her.

"Claudia, you will be taken care of here," he explained. "There is another woman here to help you. I will wait."

This was typical of most people, at least in this life. Other women would take to bathing and dressing. It might have been very strange for her but for him, he'd grown up seeing it all his life. He understood that much. It would be something that she would get used to in time.

"Do not worry," he said. "You will be in good hands, I promise."

Subject: Re: [AC] Just a Dream [Reserved] Sat Jul 13, 2013 4:38 pm

It was a long process. Malik was surprised that Rahat did not wish to take a break at any moment. Her must have grown sore for as long as he had been speaking with Al Mualim and yet she carried on without complaint. Perhaps it was the fact that it was a novelty, something new to her and thus she did not wish to stop any sooner than she had to.

Rahat's technique definitely needed work though she didn't seem to mind this. It seemed to Malik that she enjoyed that fact, to give her something to do during the day. If she did not mind then Malik would not bother her over it, however. It was best to keep a positive attitude when one was learning, after all.

The sun sank lower in the sky during that time, dusk settling in on Masyaf. It was only then that Malik spoke up about how long they'd been here. Even most novices did not train with throwing this long.

"It won't due to strain your arm, Rahat," he mentioned. Kadar had already fetched the knives again, tucking them away at his belt. "Let your muscles rest."

"Strange, I hadn't noticed the time!" Kadar noted, rubbing the back of his neck.

Malik shook his head, though it was a rather good-natured move. Kadar could get caught up in what he was doing and lose track of time, after all.

"I am sure you could use a rest as well, Kadar."

----[x]----

Claudia scowled, not at all liking that smirk on William's face. She had half a mind to reach out and slap him for it though she restrained the urge. Perhaps she had been wrong about him, after all.

She had hesitated before she'd ventured towards the room William gestured to. Claudia was still apprehensive over the whole thing, especially with the other woman she ran into. It wasn't the one she'd heard humming in the hallway, at least she didn't think it was. Silently, Claudia closed the door behind her, blocking William from view.

The woman's eyes flickered her way, surprise on her face. "And who might you be, darlin'?"

"Le-uh... Claudia." The answer was hesitant, unsure of what to expect.

"Well, they call me Annie 'round these parts." Claudia waited patiently as he could manage as Annie inspected her. "Don't suppose they finally managed to get ya did they?"

Claudia blinked. What did that mean? Had they actually prepared someone in here for her eventual arrival? Claudia frowned at that, not at all sure what to think about it. It was so cocky and smug and she found she was rather disdainful about it when she had a moment to dwell on it.

"I suppose that they did," she answered reluctantly, tugging at a hole in her dress.

It hadn't been a long conversation. In fact, Annie was already ushering her to follow towards a tub nearby, hidden away from anyone who might walk in by a changing screen. It seemed to take much longer than it should have, after bath water had been drawn from another room entirely, getting Claudia cleaned up. She hadn't thought she'd been that caked in dirt. She hadn't even been trusted to wash her own back or face! Instead Annie had scrubbed at her then, despite Claudia's vehement protests.

If she had thought that would be the worst part then she had been wrong. Unbearably itchy after the fact Annie had taken to washing all the grime and grease out of Claudia's hair next, often times having to tug out a particularly nasty tangle. At some point Claudia had heard Annie grumbling about how much of a rat's nest her hair was. Claudia had huffed in response.

It was with great relief when that ordeal had been finished, only to be handed clothes. Annie had taken to helping her then, too, especially with the corset ties in the back. "What kind of a person would want clothes in which another person is needed to help just put it on?!" Claudia had snapped. Annie had only chuckled indulgently, tightening the ties until it fit her scrawny frame.

After that Annie had insisted Claudia put on the stockings and boots and even the choker that came with the dress. Reluctantly she had followed suit, feeling uncomfortable. The dress had far too many layers to be easy to move in compared to her old, simpler dress. She felt weighted down and the choker was stifling to wear! That said nothing about the stockings and boots making her feet feel confined. Shoes were for colder months, after all! How anyone could be used to this was beyond Claudia's knowledge.

"There now! All gussied up and ready to wow a few hearts!" Annie had announced, though Claudia wasn't sure how sincere that statement was. Perhaps she was just being polite to the poor Misfortune's Child. "Why don't we get you back to whichever one of them boys found ya, hmm?"

Claudia felt her face heat up. She felt ridiculous and she was supposed to parade around in this get-up?! She shook her head, unused to her hair being pinned up the way it was. "Absolutely not!"

"Come now! Don't be so fussy!"

"No!"

The argument would continue in this vein until Annie gave an exasperated sigh. "Well, I'll just have to go get whoever found ya to come coax ya out, honey."

And with that she exited the room. Claudia felt her heart leap up into her throat and she quickly lunged at the door, locking it. To be extra sure she kept her hands tightly around the knob. Who knew if he was aware of how to pick a lock? She pressed her ear to the door, listening. She could hear Annie still, muffled as the words were.

"You've got a stubborn one, this one! Not even willing to come on out and show off a little!"

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Rahat's arm bothered her. She rubbed at it, still smiling regardless. The evening was already drawing on. She hadn't realized how long had passed. She glanced at the sky, it already becoming a light pink and orange.

It seemed she wasn't the only one who seemed to have lost track of time. In a way, she and Kadar were very much alike.

She managed a small pout. Nights meant that she couldn't be so near them. They become lonely at times. Especially when a particularly violent vision entered her mind. She would often take to wondering about the area at night, blanket pulled around her head.

"It seems the day is too short," she added. "It went too fast."

She couldn't recall a time it had gone by this quickly. They typically went by very slowly, unless with one of both brothers. Even so, the day still went by slowly, especially when they were tasked with something.

"Neither of you were tasked with another mission, were you?" She inquired.

Despite coming home, both could be sent out just as quickly as they had returned. It left her rather down trodden, unable to follow along. Despite being told not to, that was why she waited on them so often when she had a hint they would return.

----[x]----

William had waited quietly, occasionally pacing when he did so. It wasn't so much a nervous habit. He simply needed something to do. He had no doubt it would take a great amount of time. Claudia was quite a mess, after all.

Occasionally, he could hear Claudia's protests through the closed door. He would lift his head long enough to strain his ears, try to catch everything that was said. Annie didn't seem retort too often.

Time passed slowly for him. Eventually, Annie exited the room on her own. He frowned at that, turning a curious gaze on her.

He couldn't help but scoff in amusement. With how opinionated and determined Claudia was, he was surprised to hear this self conscious issue. It was amusing, in a way.

"I suppose we will have to fix that," he noted in response, moving to the door himself.

He moved to the door, reaching out for the handle. Trying to push it open, he found it locked. He shook his head at that. Claudia was going out of her way to be troublesome.

Removing his hand from the doorknob, he rapped his knuckles on the door.

"Claudia," he started. "Unlock the door. I'm sure you look lovely. No need to be shy."

It was quite a strange change of pace for her, from what he had seen. He wouldn't have pegged her as one who was self conscious. Regardless, it seemed there was still quite a bit to learn about her in the end.

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