Disclaimers: Characters of Ezio and Ubisoft verision of Leonardo belong to Ubisoft and their respective selves. I own nothing, but if I did, it would be these two! Please read and review, criticism or kindness welcome! Arrivederci.

Chapter 2. Come Stai?

1477 - Letters

Leonardo,

We arrived safely in Monteriggioni and Zio Mario has taken us in. He has insisted I start training with his mercenaries so that I might better protect Madre and Claudia when we take the road again.

I hear some of your work has been admired by il Moro, I extend my sincerest congratulations and those of my mother who has yet to fully recover. Seems she was right, you are indeed making quite the name for yourself.

Take care amico.

E

Ezio,

I am relieved to hear you've found safety and solace in your uncle's home, and pray for your mother's recovery.

You are too kind in your compliments, il Moro likes many artists and I am but one of many vying for the attentions of wealthy patrons. Still, I've come quite farther than the bastard son of a peasant is ever supposed to come. How is your sister? How has she adjusted to life in the country?

Your friend,

Leonardo

Leonardo,

I am not being complimentary at all, but truthful. Someday when we are all dead and gone and our bones reduced to dust, your work and name will carry on. Just make sure you don't get to distracted until then, you might forget to finish your painting, imagine what your patrons would think.

As for Claudia, she finds the country peaceful, of a bit dull. But now she considers taking the vows of a nun! Can you imagine what a waste of her beauty being wasted in such a way? Dio! Perhaps I can persuade you to come here and change her mind? Surely a man such as yourself wouldn't mind a fiery little woman like my Claudia? A good match no?

Till our next correspondence

E

Ezio,

As flattered as I am, let us say that your sister is not my type. Or any woman for that matter. Let us say I am married to my work and it is a most jealous and possessive mistress. It would seem anymore the same applies to you, not that this is a bad thing. Quite contrary I think, work gives us purpose in life even if I suppose that means taking the lives of others for the greater good.

Lord Lorenzo is struggling to keep the Pazzi in line, I fear they might act against him given the chance. There's whispers on the street of someone called the Spaniard, who is this man Ezio, an enemy of yours? I hear he is powerful and gives support to the dolphin. Should I be worried Ezio? I hope for your continued well-being.

Your friend,

Leonardo

Leonardo,

Thank you for the information. Yes, I am aware of this man they call the Spaniard. His name is Rodrigo Cardinal Borgia and he is a most dangerous man. It is he who is the cause of all my family's misery. Keep as far away from this man as possible lest he come after you as well.

What of Vieri, or Francesco or Jacopo? What can you tell me of them? Zio's spies have been trying to gather information on them, but it has been hard and little fruit has come of their labors. Anything is appreciated.

I miss my home in Florence, has Lorenzo done anything to save it or have the Pazzi taken that as well? I would be most unhappy if this is the case.

Your friend,

E

Leonardo,

It has been a month since I last wrote you and you have not responded, please let me know you are well. Please, I can not bear to that thought of losing you my brother.

Your friend,

E

Ezio,

Sorry for the lapse in our correspondence, I was accompanying my old master to Milan to present a gift to il Moro. I hope my absence didn't give too much concern.

As to your question, it seems the Pazzi are massing up their private forces and recruiting from the city guard. What do you make of this? Should we worry about an imminent attack on the Medici? Vieri has been terrorizing the populace with his band of followers. Supporters of the Medici are openly attacked by Vieri and there are rumors of some even being killed. Lorenzo does what he can, but his forces are stretched thin over the city. My assistant Innocento has become so scared he refuses to leave the workshop.

Someone must do something Ezio.

Your friend,

Leonardo