Not long ago, Altaïr would steel himself against such vulnerability, sure it would be a mistake. This is not his homeland, those who live there are not his people, and while knowledge of his creed would benefit anyone in any land, better that he save his efforts for when he can return to where he belongs.

Altaïr is no longer sure of any of that. The one thing he knows is that this is not a dream and actions taken in this land matter. It's easier to believe this looking into Diana's eyes, and far preferable to looking at the damage done by Josselyn Creed's people.

But he's not thinking about that now. He understands the meaning of her gentle shift against his hand without putting it into words. For a moment, he hesitates; then he pushes himself to his feet, neither moving his own hand nor pulling away from Diana's, and presses his mouth against hers.