Several emotions are at war with each other within Altaïr. First is alarm at being discovered when that is not something he is used to. Second is suspicion, because a pretty face and kind eyes can hide considerable malice. Third is sheepishness, because she really has done nothing and seems somewhat disconcerted herself.

Well, there is one way to resolve this to some degree. Altaïr appears to focus hard, staring at her...and then relaxes, slipping the knife into a sheath strapped to his leg. He has apparently decided that she means no harm.

"You're more observant than most," he says. "Few notice much that happens above their heads."