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{{Character Infobox |
{{Character Infobox |
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+ | |image = AC Malik render.png |
| + | |birth = 1165<br>[[Masyaf]], [[Levantine Brotherhood of Assassins|Assassin Order]]<ref>''[[Assassin's Creed]]'' official game guide</ref> |
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| − | |image = Malik.png |
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+ | |death = 12 September 1228 (aged 63)<ref name="TSC">''[[Assassin's Creed: The Secret Crusade]]''</ref><br>Masyaf, Assassin state |
| + | |species = [[Human]] |
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| − | |death = |
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| + | |database = [[Database: Malik Al-Sayf|Malik Al-Sayf]] |
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| − | |period = [[Third Crusade]] |
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+ | |affiliates = [[Assassins]] |
| + | *[[Levantine Brotherhood of Assassins|Levantine Brotherhood]] |
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| − | |appear = ''[[Assassin's Creed]]''<br>''[[Assassin's Creed II]]'' <small>(mentioned only)</small> |
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| − | |voice = [[Haaz Sleiman]] |
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}} |
}} |
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| + | '''Malik Al-Sayf''' (1165 – 1228) was a member of the [[Levantine Assassins|Levantine Brotherhood]] of [[Assassins]], the head of the [[Assassin bureau]] in [[Jerusalem]] in 1191, and later the right-hand man of the [[Mentor]] [[Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad]]. |
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| − | {{quote|I know... in fact, the entire city knows!|Malik commenting on Altaïr's successful assassination.|Assassin's Creed}} |
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| + | Raised as an Assassin, Malik learned the fighting arts that struck fear into the hearts of their enemies. He was an excellent swordsman and a devoted acolyte to [[the Creed]], as well as a caring and mature influence for his brother, [[Kadar Al-Sayf|Kadar]]. |
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| − | '''Malik A-Sayf''' (Arabic: مالك السيف) (born 1165) was previously a high-ranking [[Assassins|Assassin]] living during the 12th century, when the [[Third Crusade]] ravaged the Holy Land. |
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| + | Malik nurtured a jealousy of Altaïr in their youth, due to Altaïr's exceptional talents and [[Al Mualim]]'s favor toward him. This envy was stoked into rage when Altaïr ignored the tenets of the Creed during their mission to the [[Jerusalem Vault]] beneath the remains of [[Solomon's Temple]], an action which eventually led to Kadar's death and the loss of Malik's left arm. Despite his injuries, Malik retrieved the [[Apple of Eden 2|Templar treasure]] that Altaïr had failed to find and delivered it to Al Mualim, viciously indicting Altaïr all the while. |
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| − | During his time as an active Assassin, Malik closely rivalled his successor, [[Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad]], but later became a [[Dai]] and the leader of the [[Assassins' Bureau]] in [[Jerusalem]] due to the loss of his left arm. After Altaïr killed [[Al Mualim]] and became [[Grand Master of the Assassin Order]], Malik became Altaïr's right-hand man (no pun intended).<ref name="Assassin's Creed II">''[[Assassin's Creed II]]'' - [[Codex]] pages</ref> |
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| + | From icy beginnings, Malik and Altaïr's relationship improved greatly during Altaïr's [[Hunt for the Nine|hunt for nine]] influential [[Templars]] to restore his [[Master Assassin]] [[Assassin rank|rank]], as Malik felt he matured greatly and was deserving of forgiveness. Malik subsequently came to Altaïr's aid against Al Mualim's brainwashed forces, and was made his second-in-command after his ascension to Mentor of the Levantine Assassins. As such, Malik was eventually deemed a temporary leader in the case of Altaïr's absence. |
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| − | ===Solomon's Temple=== |
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| − | [[File:Malik2.png|thumb|left|175px|Malik returning from Solomon's Temple with his arm heavily wounded.]] |
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| − | {{quote|Because you would not heed my warning! All of this could've been avoided, and [[Kadar A-Sayf|my brother]]... my brother would still be alive!|Malik to Altaïr following the battle at Solomon's Temple.|Assassin's Creed}} |
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| + | Many years later, Altaïr traveled to Mongolia with [[Maria Thorpe|his wife]] and [[Darim Ibn-La'Ahad|son]] to assassinate [[Genghis Khan]], leaving Malik in charge of the Order. During their ten year absence, [[Abbas Sofian]] overthrew and imprisoned Malik in [[Masyaf]]'s dungeons for close to two years, with the false charge of murdering Altaïr's second son, [[Sef Ibn-La'Ahad|Sef]]. When Altaïr returned to Masyaf in 1228 and rescued his friend, Abbas ordered Malik's execution and delivered his severed head to Altaïr. |
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| − | Malik, along with his brother [[Kadar A-Sayf|Kadar]] and Altaïr, were tasked by Al Mualim to retrieve the [[Templars]]' Treasure; later found to be one of the [[Pieces of Eden]], the [[Sixth Apple|Apple of Eden]]. Soon after their arrival at [[Solomon's Temple]], he forewarned Altaïr of his blatant disregard of [[The Creed|the Creed]] both when Altaïr murdered an innocent old man (which he had done to hide their presence), and when he considered compromising the Brotherhood for a chance to kill [[Robert de Sable]].<ref name="Assassin's Creed">''[[Assassin's Creed]]''</ref> |
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| − | Eventually, Altaïr's stubbornness, headstrong attitude, and arrogance led to the tragic failure of the mission, costing Malik his left arm, and Kadar his life. Malik, however, successfully escaped with the Apple, and arrived at [[Masyaf]] with his arm still attached but bleeding heavily, implying that it was amputated shortly thereafter.<ref name="Assassin's Creed" /> |
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| + | ===Early life=== |
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| + | Malik was born into the Assassin Order in 1165, the son of [[Faheem Al-Sayf]].<ref name="TSC"/> Trained from an early age in the ways of the Brotherhood, he managed to attain a high rank by the year 1191.<ref name="AC">''[[Assassin's Creed]]''</ref> |
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| + | Malik's brother Kadar was also born into the Order, but possessed a lower rank. Protective of his young sibling, Malik was always cautious to not involve Kadar too heavily in missions, and coached him on the proper behavior of an Assassin.<ref name="AC"/> |
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| − | === |
+ | ===Quest for the Apple=== |
| + | {{Dialogue2|Malik|He will teach you how to disregard everything the Master's taught us.|Altaïr|And how would you have done it?|I would not have drawn attention to us. I would not have taken the life of an innocent. What I would have done is follow the Creed.|Malik criticizing Altaïr.|Assassin's Creed}} |
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| + | In 1191, Malik, Kadar and Altaïr were tasked with a mission that Al Mualim regarded as "''more important than any that has come before''": retrieving a priceless treasure from Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem. The three stealthily infiltrated the mines until they came across an elderly man, whom Altaïr assassinated with his [[Hidden Blade]].<ref name="AC"/> |
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| − | When first encountering Altaïr in Jerusalem after the mission in Solomon's Temple, Malik made no effort to disguise his new-found hatred of Altaïr. He pointed out even the most subtle flaws of his technique, and the slight haughtiness of his attitude whenever possible, resulting in an unpleasant meeting between the two as they discussed the assassination of [[Talal]].<ref name="Assassin's Creed" /> |
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| + | Malik scolded him for the unnecessary murder, citing the first tenet of the Creed, which said that an Assassin must never harm an innocent. Altaïr dismissed him, claiming that his own way of accomplishing the mission was better. Frustrated both by Altaïr's indifference and Kadar's admiration for the man, Malik moved ahead of his brothers to scout the area.<ref name="AC"/> |
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| + | The three eventually found themselves in an alcove overlooking a section of Solomon's Temple, and were awestruck by the sight of the "[[Ark of the Covenant]]". Altaïr dismissed it as "just a story," but they were interrupted by the arrival of [[Robert de Sablé]] and four of his knights.<ref name="AC"/> |
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| − | Even though the assassination was a success, Malik heavily criticized Altaïr for triggering the city alarm, and for alerting the citizens of Jerusalem of Talal's demise.<ref name="Assassin's Creed" /> |
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| + | Malik advised Altaïr to keep his distance, but the man ignored him and confronted de Sablé directly. De Sablé easily overpowered Altaïr and threw him from the room, destroying the exit and trapping Malik and Kadar inside. The Templars then descended on the two, killing Kadar and badly injuring Malik.<ref name="AC"/> |
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| − | ===Jerusalem: Second Visit=== |
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| − | {{dialogue|Altaïr|It seems everything I do troubles you.|Malik|Reflect on that. But do so on your way to Masyaf.|Altaïr and Malik at the Bureau.|Assassin's Creed}} |
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| − | Though his cold attitude toward Altaïr had gone through little to no change, Malik expressed a small level of satisfaction when Altaïr asked for his advice, and began to respect the Creed more. After the successful assassination of [[Majd Addin]], he remarked that Altaïr had performed just as an Assassin should - no more, no less.<ref name="Assassin's Creed" /> |
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| + | During the scuffle, Malik managed to retrieve the Templar treasure and escape with de Sablé's army in pursuit. He returned to Masyaf and immediately reported to Al Mualim despite his obvious injuries. He found Altaïr already in audience with the Mentor and furiously admonished him, blaming Altaïr for his brother's death and saying he nearly cost them victory.<ref name="AC"/> |
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| + | Malik then presented Al Mualim with the treasure that "his favorite" had failed to retrieve. However, he lamented that the Piece of Eden was not the only thing he had returned with, revealing that the Templars had followed him to the fortress. Below, the enemy force unleashed [[Defense of Masyaf|an attack]] on Masyaf village.<ref name="AC"/> Parting ways with Altaïr and Al Mualim, Malik was treated for his injuries; however, Masyaf's surgeons were unable to save his arm, and were forced to amputate.<ref name="TSC" /> |
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| − | ===Jerusalem: Third Visit=== |
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| + | ===Serving as Bureau leader=== |
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| − | When Altaïr visited Malik for the final time in Jerusalem, the easily angered and quick to criticize Malik had changed, speaking to Altaïr as a fellow Assassin rather than the failure that had caused the tragedy in Solomon's Temple.<ref name="Assassin's Creed" /> |
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| + | Unable to act in the field any longer due to the loss of his arm, Malik was assigned to serve as the leader of the Assassin bureau in Jerusalem. When Altaïr's mission brought him to the city, Malik regarded the man with disdain and made no effort to disguise his hatred. He pointed out flaws in Altaïr's technique and attitude as they discussed the assassination of [[Talal]], and though the mission was a success, Malik heavily criticized Altaïr for triggering the city alarm and alerting the citizens of Jerusalem to their activities.<ref name="AC"/> |
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| ⚫ | After the [[ |
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| + | Malik met with Altaïr again when the latter was tasked with the assassination of [[Majd Addin]]. Though Malik had still not forgiven Altaïr for his mistakes, he expressed a small level of satisfaction when Altaïr asked for his advice instead of demanding it. Once Majd Addin had been assassinated, Malik remarked that Altaïr had performed just as an Assassin should.<ref name="AC"/> |
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| − | Before his departure, Altaïr apologized for his failure at Solomon's Temple. Malik refused to accept |
+ | When Altaïr arrived at the Jerusalem bureau for a third time to kill Robert de Sablé, Malik responded to his presence quite positively, treating Altaïr with respect. Before his departure, Altaïr apologized for his failure at Solomon's Temple. Malik refused to accept, but clarified that this was because he felt that Altaïr was no longer the man he had been when they visited Solomon's Temple, and so should bear no guilt. Malik claimed that they were brothers under the Creed, and as such, were one.<ref name="AC"/> |
| ⚫ | After the skirmish at the [[Hunt for the Nine#Funeral for the Fallen|funeral of Majd Addin]], Altaïr returned to the bureau, informing Malik of de Sablé's ruse and the information obtained from his [[Maria Thorpe|double]]. Malik urged Altaïr to return to Masyaf and consult with Al Mualim, but Altaïr refused, arguing that Malik used the Creed as a shield and did not see the entire truth. Shaken and indecisive, Malik was not sure how to respond, and Altaïr urged him to learn more about the Templar treasure from the people of Jerusalem while he himself hunted down de Sablé.<ref name="AC"/> |
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| + | |||
| ⚫ | As Altaïr journeyed to Arsuf, Malik returned to Solomon's Temple and discovered the journal of Robert de Sablé. It recorded the finding of the Piece of Eden by ten Templars, including Al Mualim. Finally convinced of their Master's betrayal, Malik traveled to Masyaf to aid Altaïr in [[Retaking of Masyaf|retaking the fortress]], bringing along several Assassins under his command.<ref name="AC"/> |
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===Retaking of Masyaf=== |
===Retaking of Masyaf=== |
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| + | [[File:AC-Masyaf-AltaïrMalik.png|thumb|250px|Malik meeting with Altaïr in Masyaf]] |
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| + | Malik arrived in Masyaf in time to rescue Altaïr, who was under attack by a small army of hypnotized Assassins. The loyal Assassins threw [[Throwing knives|knives]] at the attackers, forcing them to flee, and giving Altaïr the chance to converse with Malik. They greeted each other warmly, claiming that each other's presence brought peace to the battleground.<ref name="AC"/> |
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| − | + | Following the duel between Altaïr and Al Mualim, Malik arrived in time to witness the Apple display a holographic map of the world marking the location of other [[Pieces of Eden]]. He remained speechless, at first running to his friend's side, but slowing to a stop as he looked upon the map.<ref name="AC"/> Right after, Altaïr sent Malik to Jerusalem to bring news of Al Mualim's death to the Assassins stationed there.<ref name="ACR">''[[Assassin's Creed: Revelations]]''</ref> |
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| + | ===Becoming Altaïr's right-hand man=== |
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| − | [[File:ACAltaïrMalikApple.jpg|thumb||250px|left|Mali, Altaïr and two other assassins observe the Apple of Eden.]]Following the duel, Malik caught up to Altaïr in time to witness the Apple of Eden displaying a holographic map of the world.<ref name="Assassin's Creed" /> |
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| ⚫ | Following Al Mualim's defeat and Altaïr's ascension to Mentor, Malik became Altaïr's close colleague and right-hand man. Together, the two worked to design new assassination techniques, which Altaïr recorded in [[Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad's Codex|his personal journal]].<ref name="AC2">''[[Assassin's Creed II]]''</ref> |
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| ⚫ | Altaïr also began to delve into the secrets of the Apple of Eden, studying it for days at a time. Both Malik and Altaïr's wife, Maria Thorpe, were uncomfortable with the Apple's effect on Altaïr, as it distracted him from food and rest. They insisted that Altaïr lock it away, but their advice was ultimately ignored.<ref name="AC2"/> |
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| + | ===Leading the Order=== |
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| + | {{Quote|I should have anticipated Abbas' plans. For years after your departure he worked to undermine me. I had no idea he had managed to command such support.|Malik talking about Abbas' actions to Altaïr.|Assassin's Creed: The Secret Crusade}} |
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| + | In 1217, Altaïr, Maria, and their son Darim left for Mongolia to deal with the rising threat of [[Genghis Khan]], and Malik was left in temporary control of the Order. Altaïr and Maria's second son, Sef, also remained behind to care for his young children, and worked with Malik to govern the Order.<ref name="TSC"/> |
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| + | In 1225, Abbas Sofian, another high-ranking Assassin, staged a coup d'état in which he had Sef killed and the murder weapon placed in Malik's bed. In addition, one of Abbas' spies claimed to have heard Malik and Sef arguing about who would retain control of the Order upon Altaïr's return. Malik was thus framed for Sef's murdered and imprisoned in the dungeons below Masyaf.<ref name="TSC"/> |
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| − | Malik's fate afterwards is unknown.<ref name="Assassin's Creed II" /> |
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| + | {{Quote|It would not have happened to a stronger leader.|Malik blaming himself for letting Abbas take control.|Assassin's Creed: The Secret Crusade}} |
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| + | When Altaïr and his family returned in 1228, Abbas attempted to trick them into believing that Malik had murdered Sef. Altaïr, distraught at his son's death, was nearly convinced of Malik's treason. Maria, however, admonished Altaïr for believing in Abbas more than Malik, prompting him to reconsider. He then infiltrated Masyaf's prison, finding Malik in extremely poor condition, and brought him to their quarters.<ref name="TSC"/> |
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| + | [[File:ACIMalikHead.jpg|thumb|250px|left|Malik's decapitated head]] |
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| − | ==Characteristics and personality== |
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| + | As Maria tended to Malik, he revealed how Abbas had worked to undermine him for many years and ultimately framed him for Sef's murder. He lamented that he had not been a better leader, and that this would not have happened to Altaïr.<ref name="TSC"/> |
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| − | Malik is a harsh, yet wise Assassin who dislikes Altaïr due to his skill and rank in the guild, as well as his arrogant attitude. However, he slowly gains respect for Altaïr as he changes on his quest to redeem himself.<ref name="Assassin's Creed" /> |
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| + | After waiting for Malik to fall asleep, Altaïr and Maria left to speak with Abbas. In their absence, Abbas' spy [[Swami]] killed and beheaded Malik, then delivered the severed head to Abbas in a burlap sack. Abbas presented it to Altaïr and Maria when they confronted him, seeking to indict them for treason.<ref name="TSC"/> |
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| − | At first, Malik's devotion to the Creed and Al Mualim is unbreakable, unwavering and somewhat blind. Over time though, he learns to see beyond it, and discover the truth for himself.<ref name="Assassin's Creed" /> |
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| − | == |
+ | ==Legacy== |
| + | Many years later, upon his return from exile, Altaïr noticed a young Assassin trailing him throughout Masyaf village. The boy revealed himself to be Malik's son, [[Tazim Al-Sayf]], bringing Altaïr to tears. He swore loyalty to Altaïr and wished to help him reclaim the Order and avenge his father's death. Together with other Assassins still loyal to Altaïr, they led an uprising against Abbas, regaining control of the Order once again.<ref name="TSC"/> |
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| − | *It is unknown how Malik gets in or out of the Bureau after the loss of his left arm. |
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| − | *During the first visit to Jerusalem, if Altaïr lingers in the Bureau before going to the assassination target, Malik will comment on why he has not already left. He sarcastically remarks: ''"Thinking of another great plan, Altaïr? Like the one back at Solomon's Temple?!"'' |
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| − | *It is possible to throw Malik off the cliff right before he and his men run past Altaïr before the final boss fight. Doing this has no effect on the game, and he still reappears during the credits to look at the Apple of Eden. |
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| + | In 2012 Altaïr's descendent [[Desmond Miles]] relived his ancestor's memories and viewed Malik's role in them. |
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| − | ==Video== |
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| + | ==Personality and traits== |
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| − | <center>[[Video:Solomon's Temple and Masyaf|thumb|300px|left|Solomon's Temple events and consequences]]<br style="clear:left;" /></center> |
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| + | {{Quote|You cannot '''know''' anything. Only suspect. You must expect to be wrong, to have overlooked something.|Malik to Altaïr, before the assassination of Majd Addin.|Assassin's Creed}} |
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| + | [[File:MalikAssassin.png|250px|thumb|left|Malik in his Assassin robes]] |
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| + | Malik was a harsh but wise man who based his life and work completely on the Assassin's Creed and its tenets. He adhered to and protected those laws, believing that the righteousness his Master claimed was the foundation of all things. This unwavering devotion and faith partially blinded him to his Mentor's treachery; only when Altaïr challenged him to think for himself, and not use the Creed as an excuse for ignorance, he began to reconsider his stance and search for the truth.<ref name="AC"/> |
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| + | Malik found proof of Al Mualim's treachery recorded in a diary left within Solomon's Temple – the details written "broke his heart", but prompted Malik to rebel and side with Altaïr, acting as pivotal support.<ref name="AC"/> |
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| ⚫ | |||
| − | {{reflist}} |
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| + | Despite his sometimes disdainful and sarcastic behavior, Malik was deeply loyal to those he cared for, always seeking to protect his younger brother and support his friends. This loyalty was later instilled in his son, who joined Altaïr's cause in his father's memory. |
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| + | |||
| + | ==Behind the scenes== |
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| + | *In ''[[Assassin's Creed: Memories]]'', Malik is shown to be the bureau leader of [[Acre]] rather than Jerusalem, as seen in the [[Teutonic Captain]] and [[Sibrand (memory)|Sibrand]] memories. |
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| + | *In ''The Secret Crusade'', Malik is described as having a beard when he was freed from the dungeons by Altaïr just moments before his death. In the ''Initiates'' art of Malik's decapitated head, however, he does not have said beard. |
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| + | *In ''The Secret Crusade'', Malik's head is shown in a burlap sack to Altaïr by Swami. Why this never happens in ''[[Assassin's Creed: Revelations]] ''is unknown. |
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| + | |||
| + | ==Gallery== |
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| + | <gallery captionalign="center" position="center" spacing="small" widths="180"> |
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| + | Malik - Concept Art.jpg|Concept art of Malik |
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| + | ACM Malik.png|''Assassin's Creed: Memories'' art of an injured Malik at Solomon's Temple |
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| + | ACMMalikMasyaf.jpg|''Assassin's Creed: Memories'' art of an amputated Malik during the retaking of Masyaf |
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| + | Solomonark.png|The Assassins looking at the Ark of the Covenant |
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| + | AC1 Solomon's Temple Templars' Arrival.png|The Assassins witness the Templars' arrival in Solomon's Temple |
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| + | AC 13.png|Malik, with Altaïr and Al Mualim, being informed of the Templar attack |
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| + | AC-AltairMalikMap.png|Altaïr, Malik and two other Assassins looking at the map of the Pieces of Eden |
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| + | ACRB Malik.png|Malik as he appears in ''Rebellion'' |
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| + | ACRebellion Profile - Malik.png|Malik's avatar in ''Rebellion''{{'}}s character menu |
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| + | </gallery> |
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| + | |||
| + | ==Appearances== |
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| + | *''[[Assassin's Creed]]'' {{1st}} |
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| + | *''[[Assassin's Creed: The Secret Crusade]]'' |
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| + | *''[[Assassin's Creed 1: Desmond]]'' |
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| + | *''[[Assassin's Creed: Initiates]]'' {{Mdat}} |
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| + | *''[[Assassin's Creed: Revelations]]'' {{Mo}} |
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| + | *''[[Assassin's Creed: Memories]]'' |
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| + | *''[[Assassin's Creed: Rebellion]]'' |
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| + | *''[[Assassin's Creed: Where's the Assassin?]]'' {{c|non-canonical appearance}} |
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| + | |||
| ⚫ | |||
| + | {{Reflist}} |
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{{AC}} |
{{AC}} |
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| + | {{ACFC}} |
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| − | + | {{DEFAULTSORT:Al-Sayf, Malik}} |
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| + | [[de:Malik Al-Sayf]] |
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| ⚫ | |||
| + | [[es:Malik Al-Sayf]] |
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| + | [[fa:مالک السیف]] |
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| + | [[fr:Malik Al-Sayf]] |
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| + | [[hu:Malik Al-Sayf]] |
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| + | [[it:Malik Al-Sayf]] |
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| + | [[nl:Malik Al-Sayf]] |
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| + | [[pl:Malik Al-Sayf]] |
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| + | [[pt-br:Malik Al-Sayf]] |
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| + | [[ru:Малик Аль-Саиф]] |
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| + | [[uk:Малік Аль-Саіф]] |
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| + | [[zh:马利克·阿塞夫]] |
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| + | [[Category:1165 births]] |
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| + | [[Category:1228 deaths]] |
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| + | [[Category:Individuals]] |
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| + | [[Category:Assassins]] |
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| + | [[Category:Levantine Assassins]] |
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| + | [[Category:Mentors]] |
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| + | [[Category:Individuals who held Pieces of Eden]] |
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Latest revision as of 04:04, 28 November 2023
Malik Al-Sayf (1165 – 1228) was a member of the Levantine Brotherhood of Assassins, the head of the Assassin bureau in Jerusalem in 1191, and later the right-hand man of the Mentor Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad.
Raised as an Assassin, Malik learned the fighting arts that struck fear into the hearts of their enemies. He was an excellent swordsman and a devoted acolyte to the Creed, as well as a caring and mature influence for his brother, Kadar.
Malik nurtured a jealousy of Altaïr in their youth, due to Altaïr's exceptional talents and Al Mualim's favor toward him. This envy was stoked into rage when Altaïr ignored the tenets of the Creed during their mission to the Jerusalem Vault beneath the remains of Solomon's Temple, an action which eventually led to Kadar's death and the loss of Malik's left arm. Despite his injuries, Malik retrieved the Templar treasure that Altaïr had failed to find and delivered it to Al Mualim, viciously indicting Altaïr all the while.
From icy beginnings, Malik and Altaïr's relationship improved greatly during Altaïr's hunt for nine influential Templars to restore his Master Assassin rank, as Malik felt he matured greatly and was deserving of forgiveness. Malik subsequently came to Altaïr's aid against Al Mualim's brainwashed forces, and was made his second-in-command after his ascension to Mentor of the Levantine Assassins. As such, Malik was eventually deemed a temporary leader in the case of Altaïr's absence.
Many years later, Altaïr traveled to Mongolia with his wife and son to assassinate Genghis Khan, leaving Malik in charge of the Order. During their ten year absence, Abbas Sofian overthrew and imprisoned Malik in Masyaf's dungeons for close to two years, with the false charge of murdering Altaïr's second son, Sef. When Altaïr returned to Masyaf in 1228 and rescued his friend, Abbas ordered Malik's execution and delivered his severed head to Altaïr.
Biography
Early life
Malik was born into the Assassin Order in 1165, the son of Faheem Al-Sayf.[2] Trained from an early age in the ways of the Brotherhood, he managed to attain a high rank by the year 1191.[3]
Malik's brother Kadar was also born into the Order, but possessed a lower rank. Protective of his young sibling, Malik was always cautious to not involve Kadar too heavily in missions, and coached him on the proper behavior of an Assassin.[3]
Quest for the Apple
- Malik: "He will teach you how to disregard everything the Master's taught us."
- Altaïr: "And how would you have done it?"
- Malik: "I would not have drawn attention to us. I would not have taken the life of an innocent. What I would have done is follow the Creed."
- —Malik criticizing Altaïr.[src]
In 1191, Malik, Kadar and Altaïr were tasked with a mission that Al Mualim regarded as "more important than any that has come before": retrieving a priceless treasure from Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem. The three stealthily infiltrated the mines until they came across an elderly man, whom Altaïr assassinated with his Hidden Blade.[3]
Malik, Kadar and Altaïr in the tunnels beneath Solomon's Temple
Malik scolded him for the unnecessary murder, citing the first tenet of the Creed, which said that an Assassin must never harm an innocent. Altaïr dismissed him, claiming that his own way of accomplishing the mission was better. Frustrated both by Altaïr's indifference and Kadar's admiration for the man, Malik moved ahead of his brothers to scout the area.[3]
The three eventually found themselves in an alcove overlooking a section of Solomon's Temple, and were awestruck by the sight of the "Ark of the Covenant". Altaïr dismissed it as "just a story," but they were interrupted by the arrival of Robert de Sablé and four of his knights.[3]
Malik advised Altaïr to keep his distance, but the man ignored him and confronted de Sablé directly. De Sablé easily overpowered Altaïr and threw him from the room, destroying the exit and trapping Malik and Kadar inside. The Templars then descended on the two, killing Kadar and badly injuring Malik.[3]
Malik clutching his wounded arm
During the scuffle, Malik managed to retrieve the Templar treasure and escape with de Sablé's army in pursuit. He returned to Masyaf and immediately reported to Al Mualim despite his obvious injuries. He found Altaïr already in audience with the Mentor and furiously admonished him, blaming Altaïr for his brother's death and saying he nearly cost them victory.[3]
Malik then presented Al Mualim with the treasure that "his favorite" had failed to retrieve. However, he lamented that the Piece of Eden was not the only thing he had returned with, revealing that the Templars had followed him to the fortress. Below, the enemy force unleashed an attack on Masyaf village.[3] Parting ways with Altaïr and Al Mualim, Malik was treated for his injuries; however, Masyaf's surgeons were unable to save his arm, and were forced to amputate.[2]
Serving as Bureau leader
- Altaïr: "Safety and peace, Malik."
- Malik: "Your presence here deprives me of both."
- —Malik and Altaïr in Jerusalem.[src]
Unable to act in the field any longer due to the loss of his arm, Malik was assigned to serve as the leader of the Assassin bureau in Jerusalem. When Altaïr's mission brought him to the city, Malik regarded the man with disdain and made no effort to disguise his hatred. He pointed out flaws in Altaïr's technique and attitude as they discussed the assassination of Talal, and though the mission was a success, Malik heavily criticized Altaïr for triggering the city alarm and alerting the citizens of Jerusalem to their activities.[3]
Malik reminding Altaïr of his actions
Malik met with Altaïr again when the latter was tasked with the assassination of Majd Addin. Though Malik had still not forgiven Altaïr for his mistakes, he expressed a small level of satisfaction when Altaïr asked for his advice instead of demanding it. Once Majd Addin had been assassinated, Malik remarked that Altaïr had performed just as an Assassin should.[3]
When Altaïr arrived at the Jerusalem bureau for a third time to kill Robert de Sablé, Malik responded to his presence quite positively, treating Altaïr with respect. Before his departure, Altaïr apologized for his failure at Solomon's Temple. Malik refused to accept, but clarified that this was because he felt that Altaïr was no longer the man he had been when they visited Solomon's Temple, and so should bear no guilt. Malik claimed that they were brothers under the Creed, and as such, were one.[3]
After the skirmish at the funeral of Majd Addin, Altaïr returned to the bureau, informing Malik of de Sablé's ruse and the information obtained from his double. Malik urged Altaïr to return to Masyaf and consult with Al Mualim, but Altaïr refused, arguing that Malik used the Creed as a shield and did not see the entire truth. Shaken and indecisive, Malik was not sure how to respond, and Altaïr urged him to learn more about the Templar treasure from the people of Jerusalem while he himself hunted down de Sablé.[3]
As Altaïr journeyed to Arsuf, Malik returned to Solomon's Temple and discovered the journal of Robert de Sablé. It recorded the finding of the Piece of Eden by ten Templars, including Al Mualim. Finally convinced of their Master's betrayal, Malik traveled to Masyaf to aid Altaïr in retaking the fortress, bringing along several Assassins under his command.[3]
Retaking of Masyaf
- Altaïr: "Safety and peace, Malik."
- Malik: "Your presence here will deliver us both."
- —Altaïr and Malik parting ways during the invasion of Masyaf.[src]
Malik meeting with Altaïr in Masyaf
Malik arrived in Masyaf in time to rescue Altaïr, who was under attack by a small army of hypnotized Assassins. The loyal Assassins threw knives at the attackers, forcing them to flee, and giving Altaïr the chance to converse with Malik. They greeted each other warmly, claiming that each other's presence brought peace to the battleground.[3]
Following the duel between Altaïr and Al Mualim, Malik arrived in time to witness the Apple display a holographic map of the world marking the location of other Pieces of Eden. He remained speechless, at first running to his friend's side, but slowing to a stop as he looked upon the map.[3] Right after, Altaïr sent Malik to Jerusalem to bring news of Al Mualim's death to the Assassins stationed there.[4]
Becoming Altaïr's right-hand man
- "I have also worked with Malik to describe new methods of assassination: from on high, from ledges, and from hiding places. Basic movements, but critical nonetheless."
- ―Altaïr's Codex, page 13.[src]
Following Al Mualim's defeat and Altaïr's ascension to Mentor, Malik became Altaïr's close colleague and right-hand man. Together, the two worked to design new assassination techniques, which Altaïr recorded in his personal journal.[5]
Altaïr also began to delve into the secrets of the Apple of Eden, studying it for days at a time. Both Malik and Altaïr's wife, Maria Thorpe, were uncomfortable with the Apple's effect on Altaïr, as it distracted him from food and rest. They insisted that Altaïr lock it away, but their advice was ultimately ignored.[5]
Leading the Order
- "I should have anticipated Abbas' plans. For years after your departure he worked to undermine me. I had no idea he had managed to command such support."
- ―Malik talking about Abbas' actions to Altaïr.[src]
In 1217, Altaïr, Maria, and their son Darim left for Mongolia to deal with the rising threat of Genghis Khan, and Malik was left in temporary control of the Order. Altaïr and Maria's second son, Sef, also remained behind to care for his young children, and worked with Malik to govern the Order.[2]
In 1225, Abbas Sofian, another high-ranking Assassin, staged a coup d'état in which he had Sef killed and the murder weapon placed in Malik's bed. In addition, one of Abbas' spies claimed to have heard Malik and Sef arguing about who would retain control of the Order upon Altaïr's return. Malik was thus framed for Sef's murdered and imprisoned in the dungeons below Masyaf.[2]
Death
- "It would not have happened to a stronger leader."
- ―Malik blaming himself for letting Abbas take control.[src]
When Altaïr and his family returned in 1228, Abbas attempted to trick them into believing that Malik had murdered Sef. Altaïr, distraught at his son's death, was nearly convinced of Malik's treason. Maria, however, admonished Altaïr for believing in Abbas more than Malik, prompting him to reconsider. He then infiltrated Masyaf's prison, finding Malik in extremely poor condition, and brought him to their quarters.[2]
Malik's decapitated head
As Maria tended to Malik, he revealed how Abbas had worked to undermine him for many years and ultimately framed him for Sef's murder. He lamented that he had not been a better leader, and that this would not have happened to Altaïr.[2]
After waiting for Malik to fall asleep, Altaïr and Maria left to speak with Abbas. In their absence, Abbas' spy Swami killed and beheaded Malik, then delivered the severed head to Abbas in a burlap sack. Abbas presented it to Altaïr and Maria when they confronted him, seeking to indict them for treason.[2]
Legacy
Many years later, upon his return from exile, Altaïr noticed a young Assassin trailing him throughout Masyaf village. The boy revealed himself to be Malik's son, Tazim Al-Sayf, bringing Altaïr to tears. He swore loyalty to Altaïr and wished to help him reclaim the Order and avenge his father's death. Together with other Assassins still loyal to Altaïr, they led an uprising against Abbas, regaining control of the Order once again.[2]
In 2012 Altaïr's descendent Desmond Miles relived his ancestor's memories and viewed Malik's role in them.
Personality and traits
- "You cannot know anything. Only suspect. You must expect to be wrong, to have overlooked something."
- ―Malik to Altaïr, before the assassination of Majd Addin.[src]
Malik in his Assassin robes
Malik was a harsh but wise man who based his life and work completely on the Assassin's Creed and its tenets. He adhered to and protected those laws, believing that the righteousness his Master claimed was the foundation of all things. This unwavering devotion and faith partially blinded him to his Mentor's treachery; only when Altaïr challenged him to think for himself, and not use the Creed as an excuse for ignorance, he began to reconsider his stance and search for the truth.[3]
Malik found proof of Al Mualim's treachery recorded in a diary left within Solomon's Temple – the details written "broke his heart", but prompted Malik to rebel and side with Altaïr, acting as pivotal support.[3]
Despite his sometimes disdainful and sarcastic behavior, Malik was deeply loyal to those he cared for, always seeking to protect his younger brother and support his friends. This loyalty was later instilled in his son, who joined Altaïr's cause in his father's memory.
Behind the scenes
- In Arabic, "Malik" means "king" or "owner," while "Al-sayf" means "the sword" or "the summer". Put together, "Malik Al-Sayf" means "King/Owner of the Sword/Summer."
- Malik's name in the in-game credits of Assassin's Creed is written as "A-Sayf", the way it is pronounced.
- Malik is the only Assassin seen wearing an almost identical outfit to Altaïr in Assassin's Creed. While wearing this outfit, he is also equipped with a Hidden Blade, though his ring finger is still intact. It is likely this was an oversight.
- In Assassin's Creed: Memories, Malik is shown to be the bureau leader of Acre rather than Jerusalem, as seen in the Teutonic Captain and Sibrand memories.
- In The Secret Crusade, Malik is described as having a beard when he was freed from the dungeons by Altaïr just moments before his death. In the Initiates art of Malik's decapitated head, however, he does not have said beard.
- In The Secret Crusade, Malik's head is shown in a burlap sack to Altaïr by Swami. Why this never happens in Assassin's Creed: Revelations is unknown.
Gallery
Appearances
- Assassin's Creed (first appearance)
- Assassin's Creed: The Secret Crusade
- Assassin's Creed 1: Desmond
- Assassin's Creed: Initiates (mentioned in Database entry only)
- Assassin's Creed: Revelations (mentioned only)
- Assassin's Creed: Memories
- Assassin's Creed: Rebellion
- Assassin's Creed: Where's the Assassin? (non-canonical appearance)
References
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