A/N: Viola! A collection of short(ish) ficlets about the Brotherhood and those that make it up. Each story is sorta connected but don't really have an relevent plot value. So, read on and enjoy.
A Novice Questions
"Clementi, to Venice. Assassinate a herald spreading fallacies. See Petrola for more information." Ezio commanded.
The novice nodded and disappeared immediately for his mission.
"Babbette and Benito, a fellow brother has gone missing in Moscow. Travel the Oskart to meet a contact. From there move on to Moscow using the contacts information to track down what happened to our missing person"
"But Maestro-"
"Enough Babbette, you and Benito need to learn to get along. Move along"
A sigh.
"Yes Maestro"
"Bene, now remember to dress warm. Moscow gets cold this time of year."
The two departed.
"Annetta, head to England to woo the wife of prominent court figure. Use her to gather information on her husband's work."
The recruit stayed still.
Ezio moved on.
"Alfonso, Ottavia, and Severo; go to Paris. The Brotherhood there is in trouble. Help them by leading a revolt against the Templars in public office. I will live the how and planning to you. This is a big mission, and I trust you on this alone. Do not make a fool of the Roman Brotherhood."
"Si, Maestro" the three chorused. Alfonso and Ottavia immediately departed, while Severo took the time to kneel on one knee to the maestro placing a closed fist over his heart before lifting it in a salute to the Maestro. Severo stood and followed quickly after the other two.
"Ginerva, attend to the Thieves Guild. Tell La Volpe that you need tutoring in your free running"
"Ja, mien Lehrer"
The majority of the recruits had already left on their assignments. Annetta stayed still and silent. Head raised high. Waiting for the attentions of the Maestro.
"Can I help you Annetta? The others have already left on their assignments. What is the reasoning behind your tardiness to depart?"
Annetta inhaled.
"Maestro, I am here to question why is it you have decided to waste my abilities on such a menial task. Without any disrespect intended, I would much prefer a task to test my skills. Not charm my way within the confines of some court floozy's bed to entertain her whilst her husband is away."
Annetta exhaled.
"Perfectly understandable, Signora Franco." Ezio began. "While you see this as a mission of wasted skill, it is truly a test. You may question it. But in fulfilling this mission you will prove that you are able to control your personal thoughts and feelings. It will show that you will not let them take control of you. Wooing her without letting personal feelings become involved will take considerable skill. You must exercise a ruling over your emotions."
A pause. Annetta spoke first.
"But, maestro, is that not what you do? Isn't that what all of this is. The reopening and renovating of the guild is all because you desire revenge against the Borgia for the murder of your family? Aren't you fueled by emotion?"
Ezio froze.
Annetta swallowed. Fearful that she came across as insolent, half expecting her idolized Maestro to raise a hand to her in anger. She bowed her head, resigned to her coming abuses. She deserved it for such disrespectful behavior towards such an honorable man.
"Forgive me, maestro. I did not mean to-"
Ezio began to laugh. A deep carefree type of laugh that came from deep within his belly. He put and arm around his recruit's shoulders.
"Maestro? I am afraid I do not understand what is mean to be comedic about the situation. I have dishonored you by questioning your utmost authority. I do not deserve the opportunity to continue under such valiant leadership."
"Quiet, little one. It is welcome for you to question, and not follow blindly. It is what separates us from the Templars. Whilst they wish blind obedience, we wish to keep the world informed. It is okay to let your emotions play a role, but it is key to know the difference between when it is put to good use and when it is needed."
Annetta relaxed slightly. Although keeping a slight guard up in case the Maestro wished to bestow unto her a punishment deserving of her disrespect.
"Although…" Ezio began. Annetta stiffened believing that the Maestro decided to go against his previous words. "Next time, try not to hit so close to the heart."
It was Annetta's turn to laugh.
