That answer tells him a great deal even as Altaïr can tell he's missing a great deal — what war? For that matter, what is a galaxy? But context fills in some of the gaps. He can see certain similarities between these Jedi and his own brotherhood, as well as some very, very big differences.

"I wouldn't have guessed that diplomacy could require such combat skills. Though I suppose that might help people take you seriously as a mediator."