Disclaimer: It's the usual song and dance, you know the drill.
There is a good reason why the Piece of Eden is the way it's formatted to be- and the Philosopher's Stone is one name.
Enjoy!
Warning: The story's finally getting somewhere. More OOC, And some historical blurb about the Frari- which I am pretty sure you all have learned about at some point in school or the game. If not, then have some little slice of Art History 101- and lots of talking. Also, I know the Frari has no guards in the interior- I saw the videos and read the guides. But for the sake of this story and tension, I have to include them in.
Oh, and more botched Italian. Yay.
Part 1 of 2- this is going to be a long part- considering last chapter was also long.
"italics" = Italian, Arabic, any other language OR a flashback (depending on how it is used)
"bold italics" = over the mic and phone
"normal" = English
bold sentences = emails, screams, or Bleeding Effect (depends on how it's used).
Part 18.1: Planned Out (Part 1)
The clock was striking around five when the four of them headed out- Leonardo had to finish something at the last moment that made the entire walk being set back for an hour. In fact, the thing that he was working did surprise them-
"You created a new map!?" Desmond was the one who can't help but stare at the exact replica- down to the freaking minuscule detail in ink out of all things- of the map as he feels how smooth it feels underneath his fingertips as he stares at the replica map in awe, "H-How did you manage to find the time to do this?"
"Dio, Leonardo, you are amazing at this!" Ezio can't help but marvel himself as he looks at the map over Desmond's shoulders. Altair is looking at it, humming in approval over the fact that the entire map was easily duplicated. Looking at the original to the copy, there could be some things only the sharpest of eyes can tell from the most minuscule of mistakes; to the normal human eye, however, it can't be distinguished.
"It was something I thought about doing myself as a small project, sometimes for a warm-up. But I'm glad all of you are proud of it. In fact, if some of the Templars were to get their hands on the map, they would receive the replica, only the thing is the map has been slightly altered for their usage. The one that I am bringing to you is the exact replica of the one that we possess," Leonardo can't help but feel prideful as the map is gently passed to Altair, who looks surprised that the artist had something to even show the Brotherhood. Ezio was looking at the inscription before glancing back at Leonardo and before he asked-
"Yes, Ezio, I basically rewrote the inscription I had a couple days before and that was the I translated from before something caused the map to change." The artist sighs, knowing pretty well that his friend would want something like this, "...and no, I am not going to do the same for my artworks, as interesting as an idea it sounds."
"You really need to use your talents for your artwork, regardless what you say," Ezio rolls his eyes, anticipating the usual reaction Leonardo would say (which was usually the complaints, the denial of him being a really good artist, the usual groaning the Italian constantly hears).
"Yes, but they are never the best ones that I would ever present, nobody will appreciate it, the usual in which you are getting tired of hearing," The blonde artist shakes his head, "However, I would rather not say anything..." He pauses, "...especially since I desire to take a break from my paintings at the moment." He grins, "It's actually a good thing, no?"
Ezio just groans. Altair just ignores them (or pretend not to listen since part of him doesn't really exactly care for such frivolities like art). Desmond, on the other hand, is shaking with laughter, knowing the irony in Leonardo's complaints (which did earn Altair's stare and Ezio and Leonardo wondering why the youngest out of all people is reacting like that).
Normally, this type of conversation would be for the safety of Leonardo's studio.
Except for a few things that are a bit out of this picture: they were actually walking/making their way towards the Clock Tower at San Marco. In order to prevent people from recognizing him, Leonardo has decided to wear something a bit more common, to blend in with the crowds of people who are making some last minute decisions before the darkness sets in. Ezio has placed in a black cloak to cover his usual Assassin's garb; Altair and Desmond both agree it would be best not to be recognized by putting on some of the clothing the Italians wear themselves (it was over their Assassins' clothing).
After all, it wasn't the commoners recognizing Leonardo da Vinci that concerns them (it was one of them); it was also the risk of having the Assassins being found out by the guards.
The third reason was because Leonardo also can't jump and run through the roofs efficiently as the three men are, which can explain why they are going through ground.
"Are you working on other commissions?" Desmond (after managing to calm down) quietly asks the artist, who blinks in slight alarm before his eyes slight widen before nodding, "...you should probably get it done when we are done with this mission."
"I plan to," Leonardo chuckles, his eyes twinkling with excitement, "However, I will cherish the moments in which I am aiding the Assassins to help them in their need of trouble."
The time traveler looks at the artist in surprise before he smiles before muttering, "...hey. Leonardo? I still have the previous translation that you gave me before we looked at the map for the second time."
"Ah, you do?" Leonardo's pale blue eyes widen in surprise before he glances over to the bag that Desmond gently pats to indicate the location, "...well, what do you plan to do with it?"
"I plan to see whether or not it was accurate or not," Desmond wants to do that once he is done with the meeting or when he was alone, "...are you sure what I said was similar to the one you translated?"
"It could be," The artist's eyes narrow, "Then again, languages can be distorted. I may say something to you in one language, you can say something in your language, only it can be similar from meaning to tone."
The American's eyes slightly narrow, taking this into account as the artist and Desmond begins to catch up with the two Assassins, the conversation between the two sealed within their minds.
They reached the tower in an hour and a half. By that time, Ezio can see the others were getting ready to the meeting. Luckily for the Italian Assassins, it was empty; not a lot of guards that belong to the Templars will be around. In fact, Niccolo has asked some of the officials who handle the building to use the church for some sort of political reason (he wants to use it the next day for reasons the Assassins would not even ask about- this is Niccolo Machiavelli- the son of an an attorney whose family were descended that began the Florentine Gonfalonieres of Justices- using the church, not the Assassin who was trained at a young age*).
"We're here," Ezio mutters to himself, looking up at the clock tower before grimacing, "...I hated that tower."
"I'm taking that you have climbed it before?" Altair arches an eyebrow before frowning, "Compared to minarets in Damascus and Jerusalem, it is fairly easy to do such thing."
"Try climbing the freaking Effiel Tower you two think climbing those aren't too bad," Desmond grumbles before earning stares from the two Assassins, "...what?"
"And you haven't attempted to climb anywhere as tall as what we have to deal with?" The Italian quips a small smile, seeing the embarrassment flushing on Desmond's face.
"S-shut up." And then when he looks up at the tower, he frowns, "Do we just enter in the church just like that?"
"Si," Ezio nods as he nods over at some of the people the Assassins are acquainted with, "Though they know us as Niccolo's allies."
"It definitely puts us in the suspicious group, however," Altair mutters to himself, glaring at the people Ezio nodded earlier. They shuddered seeing the Syrian's death glare, Desmond noticed with some small amusement- though he has to admit, it did frighten him to a certain extent.
"Ah, well, let us hope we do not arouse any sort of suspicion with the others," Ezio grumbles, rolling his eyes as he closes the door to the Basilica di San Marco before indicating to the others to release themselves of their (suffocating) disguises.
They did in no time- well, Desmond and Altair did immediately takes theirs off in frantic as they wanted to get rid of their disguises. Well, Desmond lets out a heave with relief, happy about the cool air that begins to cool his skin as soon as he shoves the loose jacket out. Altair, on the other hand, just instantly discards the loose jacket that was covering his entire Assassin's gard by throwing it at Ezio, who immediately catches it before scowling, grumbling the usual sets of Italian curse words that usually have some sort of murderous edge to it. Leonardo gently takes his off before looking around the entire basilica.
"Ah, the beauty of Byzantine architecture," The artist murmurs in awe, drinking in the interior of the basilica as he takes his time to view the church. Desmond has to admit, the basilica was a beauty to itself as he steps in to feel the cool breeze of the church as he steps near the benches of the basilica.
When he first saw the interior of the famed church in San Marco while looking through Ezio's memories through the Animus, he could hear Shaun saying various information about the church since he wasn't the only one awed by the sight (Rebecca was marveling over it as was Lucy; Clay was wondering how they managed to get all the images in the ceiling while Connor was silent (though he did admit later on that if possible, they could see it for themselves when all of the mess is all over).
From what he recalls from the Brit's usual 'history lesson'- or to be more precise, his smartass comments when he complains about Desmond being a dense moron in history (honestly, it wasn't just Desmond who did abysmal in world history knowledge; Clay wasn't any better)- this Basilica was known for what Leonardo did point out: Byzantine architecture and the art and mosaics adorning the ceiling along with shades of gold and speckles of jewelry. Each mosaic tells a story- more specifically, that of the Old Testament. It also had a more interesting history to it: it was originally built to house the stolen treasures from the Crusades. However, it is now used to be a private estate of the Doge- another reason why the Assassins were able to use it to their full advantage: the Doge that is currently with the Pope is aligned with the Assassins (at least, in the time now) and serves as a gateway to the Doge's personal residence. In Desmond's time, it is used as an art study- tourists come to see it for the beauty, scholars for the interpretations for the mosaics and architecture.
Desmond can't help but wonder how lucky he is to see this in person- when before he was seeing it with some limitations thanks to the Animus.
"This... is really beautiful," He looks up at the ceiling in awe and wonder, knowing pretty well how much Shaun and Lucy (the more historical nerds) will envy him when Desmond plans to describe it later. He softly chuckles, stepping a bit forward, "If only the guys at home can see this now..."
He doesn't see the slightly pained look that Ezio's eyes flash as Altair's eyes narrow in an upset manner, despite the indifference in his expression.
As if trying to shake the idea out of his head, the Florence Assassin steps forward to where Desmond is standing, "I know, tesoro... it is beautiful." But he wasn't just referring to the basilica as his eyes glance over at Desmond's awe-struck eyes.
"It's just a church," Altair shakes his head, as he clicks his tongue, looking a bit ire at the ceilings as his eyes scan over the drawings and mosaics before turning his attention back to the Assassins, wanting to get this meeting over with as possible, "...hey, brat. where are your comrades?"
"They should be here somewhere," That makes the Italian Assassin look around the basilica until seeing one of the Italian Assassins lurk about in the Basilica near the altar, "...wait, Antonio?"
"Ah, there you all are!" The thief instantly walks over before beckoning them, "Here, this way. You're all just in time."
"Are the others there?" Altair quietly asks as the four begin to follow the Venetian thief through the hallway that links to the Clock Tower.
"Yes, they are all waiting," He glances over and nods to Leonardo, who nods back, "I assume that you're here for support?"
"Not just that," Leonardo pats the bag that he is carrying, "I have the things you would all need to plan out your routes."
"Ah." Antonio nods as they stop at a door before Antonio opens it, ushering them all in before quickly and quietly shutting it, leaving nothing disturbed behind them.
"Ah, here they are," Mario nods as Ezio shuts the door to the Clock Tower before looking around to see the torches lit to barely conceal themselves while providing some light for the Assassins. As they all got into position to see the other Assassins, Desmond can barely see, even with the torches lit.
Mario Auditore was there, standing in the side that faces the Frari; Niccolo and La Volpe next to him. Antonio, Teodora, Paola, and Bartolomeo making some sort of semi circle. Desmond is standing next to Ezio, who takes his place next to La Volpe, with Altair next to him; Leonardo is standing behind the Italian Assassin, knowing that he wants to observe the meeting that he is also involved in.
The clock tower begins to strike, catching Desmond's attention as seven chimes boom in the area he is in- signalling the meeting is to take place now and that whatever they talk about stays among themselves.
The leader of the Italian Brotherhood steps forward, clearing his throat to silence the others before taking a scroll from the artist.
"...Our new mission," Mario's eyes are flaming with determination as he turns to the direction of the Frari, "...is hidden within the depths of the Doge's church. We must retrieve it before the Templars use it to their advantage." A pause, "This... will not be the case- we must find the Piece of Eden and retrieve it- before they do."
The American Assassin can't help but silently gulp and accept the mission like the other Assassins- for Altair and Ezio, it should be just like any other mission, any other assignment for them. Unlike what Desmond has experienced in the Animus... he can't mess it up. There are no redos, no try-agains, and no time to slow down and play catch-up.
The mission is a one-time shot. If he fails, then it's over. But if he finishes...
What other option do I have? Desmond knows what this means- I have to do this. Failure is not an option.
Altair has succeed to the top and Ezio- later on the lines of his life- will do the same. Desmond can't help but grin to himself, knowing that in some sort of way, he is going to leave his mark on the history of the Brotherhood, whether he likes it or not.
After all, it's in my blood, right?
Various ideas were thrown as to the approach to the Frari- however, each of their suggestions (Desmond doesn't even dare suggest his at all, knowing too well that his ideas will not work- experience with his group has served him too good of a job to remind himself that he's only good on last minute situations- not well-planned routes) were either taken into consideration or shot down because of instant flaws that will hinder their route.
It wasn't until finally they decide to take this course of action- splitting up into two groups: The more experienced Assassins (meaning Altair, Ezio, Desmond, La Volpe, and Mario) will be the ones who will enter inside the Frari by any means (even if it means taking a rumored secret entrance that only a small percentage of people know about); the other group (Teodora, Paola, Antonio, Niccolo, Leonardo, and Bartolomeo) will create some sort of diversion- or rather instigate one to distract the guards who are guarding the Frari on the outside to prevent the Assassins from being discovered.
More than likely, it would probably be some sort of brawl at the usual tavern or somewhere popular that will go too far.
And not surprisingly, this was Altair's idea- typical of the strategist of the Master Assassin. And again, Mario agrees with the idea- along with some suggestions that perhaps they should be discreet about the distraction portion of the plan- by that, Desmond had a mental feeling that most likely, it's going to be either Bartolomeo with his mercenaries that love to drink and start a fight or the thieves Antonio works with that will begin pickpocket-ting people before slowly descending into chaos.
"Perhaps it will still be good if we are involved then?" Teodora can't help but quip up, causing most of the room (it doesn't help that it's mostly men) to glance at her. When she sees Antonio open his mouth to object, she cuts in, "Do not forget, that men are also vunerable to the power of the women too."
"Perhaps some..." Paola shoots Ezio and Altair a smirk, causing the two to slightly darken (well, Altair lowers his hood to hide his small moment of embarrassment), "Well, I will help Teodora with the ladies- to prepare them for a night they'll perhaps never forget."
"We'll see how much use that will be when a fight breaks out," Bartolomeo gruffs, crossing his arms, "If it get out of hand, however, that is when some of us begin pulling the innocent out of the way."
The first tenet of the Brotherhood- as all of them take that into consideration.
"That's good then," Mario nods as he glances to Niccolo, "Will you make sure that is the case?"
"Of course," The politician-to-be nods with his usual smirk, "It's also a good chance for me to understand how some Venetian politicians work as well."
"Perhaps to use to their advantage or for blackmail," Ezio can hear La Volpe shake his head at this possibility as Paola begins to shake in silent laughter before the Florence thief speaks up, "It is still not finalized- we also have to consider the other possibilities as well."
"Ah," Mario nods before glancing to Leonardo, "As for you... are you positive that you are going with us on this?"
"As long as I can provide some assistance to all of you," Leonardo grins, "My studio is welcome for use if you all need to hide or to rest after this mission is over; I also-" He takes out one of the longer scrolls in his bag before handing it out to Antonio, "-created some maps for all of you to use; they are made easier for all of you to read and to figure out the route from there."
"Is that so?" They all walk closer as the Venetian thief rolls out the map for all of them to see. Antonio then points to a structure outlined in the San Marco area, "This is where we are..." He then trails his finger towards the direction to their destination, "...and the Frari."
"Well done," Niccolo nods to the artist, who sighs in relief.
"Thank goodness," Leonardo then pauses, "Though when you all intiate your plan and leave this area, I might have to head back to my studio and prepare it for all of your usage if this is the case."
Ezio nods, "Good. In that way, we have a safe place to hide in case we get caught."
"And to provide a safe place if we need to get out of the brawl," Niccolo's eyes mentally laid out a trail from the Frari to where Leonardo's studio is located, "...not bad."
"Perfect. Here is the area that surrounds the Frari, and here... are some of the more local areas that is near the Frari," Antonio spreads out one of the more intricate maps Leonardo made, "Ezio, where are the best areas to enter in through the building?"
"To be quite honest," Ezio places his finger to one area of the building before letting out a small click, indicating for the actual map of the Frari. Leonardo sighs, rolling his eyes as he takes out the map that has the inscription and the Frari layout and hands to Ezio, who unrolls it before pointing at one area that is facing the town, "It would be the best to start from here... and make our way towards the Frari by going through the roofs."
"And risking some of our safety?" Mario groans, somewhat not looking forward to this endeavor, "Nipote mio, are you insane? Running through the tops of the buildings when it could be easier to by foot and ground?"
"Are you a proper Assassino or no?" Ezio shoots back, but with his usual playful humor, "Besides, Zio Mario, we are going by ground until after we go through the rivers."
Desmond can see Altair slightly stiffen at the mention of 'rivers' before he gives a small smile and a pat on the Syrian's shoulder. "Don't worry, Altair," he murmurs, "We're probably going to go through the boat."
"I... hope that's the case." Altair quietly grumbles, mentally hoping that the boat is much safer than swimming through any body of water. Luckily for him, Ezio was too busy trying to make sure his uncle will be safe as the Assassins will begin their run to the Frari when they reach the harbor of the San Polo district. Desmond groans before glancing over and narrows his eyes at the Syrian, gently squeezing his hand.
"I'll try to calm you down, if you want."
That made Altair glance over at the young Assassin before reluctantly nodding, "...only for you, habibi." Then he glances over to Ezio, "I hope the brat doesn't notice it."
He might find out... Desmond les out a mental groan, knowing pretty well that somehow in some form of way, Ezio does find out about it and can use it to his advantage. The other two then turn to hear some loud complaining from Mario- despite him being older and more experienced- before hearing laughter from some of the other Assassins (Niccolo is perhaps the only Assassin that is just amused as the ladies stand next to him; Leonardo is standing next to the ladies, wisely staying away from this mini scuffle as he too is laughing).
"So, are you sure you are up for this, uncle?" Ezio has the obvious playful grin before Mario rolls his eyes and smacks his nephew upside the head, giving a mental answer to the obvious question, "Ow!"
"Remember Ezio," Leonardo deadpans, "This isn't the usual banter I have to put up with you everyday."
"HEY!"
"Si, Signore Mario," La Volpe lets out a smirk, obviously filled with mirth, "Are you going to be as slow as Machiavelli and not climb to the tops with the rest of us?"
"You do realize," Machiavelli calmly deadpans to the famed thief of Florence, "I can gladly set a bounty on your head, despite our alliances."
"Oh, I already know my target," The thief calmly states back before he turns to Paola, "...isn't that right, signora tesora?"
"Providing that you will not die in the process." Paola rolls her eyes, but a slight blush is evident, "...bastardo."
Altair shakes his head as he turns to Antonio (who is trying his best not to laugh his head off), "If you don't mind, can I have a second look at the map?"
"Oh, by all means," Antonio stands back as the Syrian Assassin looks at the map, before indicating to Leonardo, who walks over. The thief is joined by Ezio as the Italian asks more about how the distraction plan is going to work and who is involved with it.
Desmond lets out a small smile as he sees the Assassins begin to work lively before him- they did get out from the Clock Tower a long while back after deciding that it was best to enter in the one of the Doge's halls (the Doge allows them to use it; as long as they don't desecrate the area and clean up). He glances over at his wrist to try and find out the time when he sees the leather band surrounding his arm.
Shit. I forgot that I don't have my watch on me right now, The American mentally groans as he fidgets in his seat, trying to get comfortable with the clothing. He doesn't see Mario Auditore stopping his conversation with Niccolo before walking over to see the youngest Assassin before clearing his throat.
"I hope you weren't planning to be silent all evening," The man arches an eyebrow as he sees Desmond jump from surprise before looking at the older Auditore man.
"O-Oh... no, not exactly," Desmond gives a weak laugh as he rubs the back of his neck (before cringing at the amount of fabric that was blocking the way), "I was just... listening."
Mario chuckles, his eyes glancing over at how much fidgeting the foreigner was doing just to at least get comfortable again, "These clothing," Mario asks, catching the American's attention, "...do these suit you?"
All Desmond can manage out was a confused look before the Auditore head clarifying, "You do not look comfortable in the clothing that you're currently wearing right now."
"Ah. Right." Desmond looks at the state of his wear (or rather... the clothing Ezio has given to him to wear); he has gotten used to it, but the amount of belts and capes that he's wearing now as opposed to the simple T-shirt, jacket, and jeans are just annoyingly heavy and they sometimes did get in the way of his maneuvers. Not to mention the fact that he has a freaking sword hanging down on his legs that makes it slightly worse for him (for one, unlike Ezio and Altair, Desmond can't make that sword stay still).
From that one look of slight discomfort, Mario was instantly amused, "Not what you are used to in your time, hm? It isn't like what you were doing before, wasn't it?"
That got a look of alarm from Desmond as Mario grins, "I have heard rumors about a strange young man that resembles like my nipote, running in garments of white and blue that we deem as unusual, helping those who are in trouble in the most minor of offenses. Often he would bring comrades to help- they usually vanish in a blink of an eye with a white light like they entered in."
He pauses, seeing as how the other Assassins are now distracted before continuing his conversation with the young man, "I did see you one night in Florence. And before you say anything, I did not say anything to Ezio in fears of you being caught. But it seems as if you were doing your best not to get caught by anyone- well, perhaps when you entered into Leonardo's home to try and get something small was there a risk for you. You seemed to have dodge all attention until the point where you began to stay here for a long time."
"...ah." Desmond nods before muttering, "Well, I had to do a mission that was given to me by the leader of my group at my time. It was a few weeks ago and... it involved having me to enter in Florence in your time." He lets out a sigh of relief, "Mario, thank you for not involving Ezio then."
"It is no problem." Mario chuckles before seeing the American tug at the clothing, "Do you not feel any comfort in wearing these? And do you still have those same clothing that you have now?"
There really was no hiding how uncomfortable he is, huh? He can see Mario's grin before sagging in defeat, giving up any hiding of discomfort. Damn. And he thought Lucy, Shaun, and Connor were sharper than anyone he's met.
"No. It's really itchy... and it's too tight," Desmond admits before gesturing to his bag, "...I do have my own clothing here- wait. Why are you asking me about this?"
Mario glances over to the group of Assassins that are talking, then to his nephew, "In the years I have been leader of the Brotherhood and to the person I am to Ezio- to him, I am his father figure. To me, he is still my nipote who needs a strong figure to stand with him and teach him until the day comes where he takes over- as the Assassin his father was once before- perhaps stronger. I have never seen him as elated and happy as he is with you." He faces Desmond, who looks suddenly guilty, "...but you are someone who is separated by time. Your reasons for being here are similar, yet the goals differ in a level that maybe I do not understand."
"Yeah," Desmond sighs, feeling the guilt weighing in his heart, "...I don't want to leave yet."
"I know," And he feels Mario wrap his arms around him like a father would do to a son- Not my father, not William unless he feels the necessity to, Desmond's mind flashes to the time where his father greeted him. While there was a relief and the sudden rush of euphoria of seeing his family again, there was a tone of disappointment for how much his son has screwed up, being left to the Templars instead of sticking by his family.
No wonder there was a part of him that envied Ezio so much. Altair- at least- had a family that he actually poured his love to.
Desmond, on the other hand...
-he has his comrades as his make-shift family. But nowhere in there did he had a older figure he would emotionally feel attached to- mayeb to his father, but that situation is completely different in which Desmond feels it in both sides of the spectrum. He's William's son, but he's also an Assassin- the son of the Leader.
"It is your goal that matters to you at the moment. For now, that is. Later, you will find out what you have to do." Mario lets Desmond go before patting the young man's shoulders, "There is a spare room across from this one- Go ahead and change to the clothing you arrived in this time in. I have a feeling," He pauses, "That while I would have to find a way to placate my nipote... today might be your last night here."
Desmond closes his eyes, knowing too well that he is thinking. Honestly, he didn't want to go. He doesn't want Ezio and Altair to resume what their lives are supposed to be. He wants to stay in the state that he's in.
But the reality is, the world is going to end and not just by the Templars' hands. There are Pieces of Eden that needed to be saved, to be in their hands, some which are purposefully meant to be destroyed since the power itself is too much for both mankind and the First Civilization to handle. The Templars' plan would succeed and overrun the Assassins- the ones who are waiting for him back at 2012.
And Desmond is- unfortunately- the one person who can stop all of the mess from continuing to the next generation. Glancing over at his bag, he nods before he looks down at the hidden blade from his time.
"Thank you, Mario. And... I'm really sorry."
That caused a look on confusion from Mario.
"I... might have done something to-"
Ah. Mario realizes what the young American is trying to say: there is a chance he could've ruined his nephew's happiness.
"If you mean making my nipote happy, then be happy that you did." Mario clasps the American's shoulders, causing him to slightly stumble, "I am not going to kill you for that- you are a strong person... so is Ezio. Nor will I hold a grudge against you for lifting a huge load from Ezio's shoulders." A soft smile appears on Mario's face, "There is a part of you who is guilty for playing a huge part in Ezio's time, along with Altair's time, isn't there?" When he sees the American nodding (with the obvious guilt written all over his face), Mario gently pats his head, "Don't worry; like I said earlier, I will make sure my nipote calms down. For Altair, I imagine there are people who can help him do the same."
Desmond lets out a sigh before he looks down at the sword and the weapons belt that contains the items Altair and Ezio gave him fro weapons practice, "...though I might have to take these with me... but what do I-"
"Oh, I don't know where those came from. I am going to assume that they actually came with you when you arrived," Mario offhandedly comments, but he winks, knowing pretty well who those pieces of equipment were from. "You can change in the room down the hallway. But take the outer coat with you; it can help blend you in with us."
The American Assassin can't help but grin, knowing that Mario is also helping him get away with the explanation as to how he got the Assassin weapons.
"Thank you, Mario Auditore." The American Assassin smiles before bowing, "I am grateful for the help in this limited time." Man, would the others be jealous... maybe.
"I should thank you, actually," Mario's eyes crinkles with slight happiness, patting on Desmond's shoulder, "...I have seen Ezio with various women and this is a dream, seeing the Master Assassin Altair himself. But in the only time in which I will say, never has those two been happy to be with anyone else except with you. All of you are separated by time, though... I wish you all the best of luck."
I wish I can repay them by staying here... Desmond can feel his throat constricting (which he quickly gets rid of) as he nods, before quickly exiting the room (quietly) and entering inside of the room Mario told him about and takes out his folded and washed clothing (the T-Shirt, jeans, jacket, and shoes) before staring at himself in the mirror before grimacing, eyeing the amount of belts and layers of clothing he was wearing.
"...Christ. This is going to suck." The American groans before he carefully takes out the belt that was around his waist. He doesn't hear the door slightly open and closing as Desmond manages to careful take out each layer of the current clothing. As soon as he takes off the coat that covers just the shirt and pants (not to mention the annoyingly tight boots he has gotten sick of wearing), he glances over at himself one last time before letting out a small chuckle of amusement.
Had he worn this outfit in front of Connor, Clay, Rebecca, Lucy, and Shaun, he would see that their expressions would be priceless.
Well, Connor would just wonder what idiot possessed Desmond to wear it while Clay and Shaun would poke fun at him (okay, Shaun would be the most likely person to call him a brainless moron and then point out each and every component of his clothing before Desmond would have the itching urge to duct-tape Shaun's motor-fact spewing mouth shut). Lucy would be the one who would say Desmond would look somewhat exactly like Ezio and compare him to the Italian (and maybe laugh) while Rebecca would take some photos, claiming it would be perfect for some cosplay in the future (or she would've said with those three pieces of outfit alone, he would look like some badass pirate).
In any case, Desmond gives a small sad smile, knowing that he would probably get the chance to go home, but to leave here-
-it would be something like leaving a piece of his soul behind.
Well, I did grow attached to wearing this, but... He manages to effortlessly take out the shirt first before swiftly placing his newly washed T-shirt over it and giving a small sigh of relief at the feel of soft cotton as opposed to the somewhat scratchy material of the shirt.
"Not a bad sight."
Desmond could've jumped about a good five inches, but instead of doing so (and partially thanks to the training that made him more focused), he warily turns around to see the Italian standing at the now closed door, his hood down as a small smile graces his normally teasing face. The American gawks before heaving out a sigh of relief.
"Fucking Hell- you scared me, dammit!" He grumbles as he finishes tugging down his shirt before turning around to take off those damn pants, slight red in the face as he can hear the light footsteps behind him, "Christ, I can't even change by myself... I thought you were with the others."
"They are talking among themselves to find out the best way to distract the guards- this is something I have gotten used to before," Ezio chuckles as he sees the younger quickly pull up the jeans before gently wrapping his arm around the American's waist, "Do they still fit you well?"
"Yeah... they do, despite it being rough and all," Desmond mutters, trying to get to his zipper and button to fasten his pants (It wasn't helping with Ezio being close to him) before managing to succeed, "...what?"
"It seems as if we aren't the only ones alone," Ezio turns, his grin a bit more mischievous as Altair enters in before silently shutting the door, "How long?"
"They need about an hour to prepare everything." The Syrian grumbles, taking his hood off once more to allow his face to cool down before glancing to see Desmond's former clothing again. "Aren't those suffocating?" The elder frowns, seeing how... form-fitting the jeans and T-shirt are to the young Assassin.
"I'm fine wearing these since I've gotten used to them," Desmond manages to grab his sneakers and swiftly ties them on as Altair and Ezio continue to observe his reactions as if they were foreign to him. "...what?"
"Aren't those a bit troublesome?" Ezio was pretty much curious as to what his tesoro was doing, "Your... footwear."
"No, it just needs some time to get used to for you both," Desmond gives a small nod to the two other men in the room, before pausing and glancing over them with a grin, "...well, if you were to wear them, I don't think you both would exactly enjoy it. They're not exactly like what you're wearing..." he eyes the clothing that was on a small heap on the floor, "...I'm sorry. Ezio, how the hell does you manage to wear these one without getting itchy!? And.. you, Altair, for having all of... these?" He is glancing over at the clothing Altair opts to wear- the one suited for Masyaf and not for the damp climate like Venice.
"It's just the matter of adjustments," Altair murmurs as he steps closer to Desmond, "And adaptation."
"I really wonder about that," The American grumbles to himself, this time feeling his face flushing a bit when he sees the small smile gracing the Syrian before hearing Ezio scowl as the Italian hugs Desmond tighter, "H-hey!"
"You're already had my tesoro for the day, old man," Ezio grumbles, looking at Altair as if he's holding onto an item that he really doesn't want to be taken away, "What are you really here for?"
"Hmn," Was all he can hear before feeling the Syrian giving a small kiss on Desmond's neck, causing the other to squeak in reaction- well, there was a slight indication of a hickey there left by said guy behind him, "...it truly suits you." Altair intentionally ignores Ezio as he ruffles Desmond's hair (who scowls in irritation), "And that- habibi- was for luck."
"Yeah, for luck, I'm sure," Desmond blushes, but there was a nervous grin on his place, "...though I'm worried."
"Do not be," Altair chuckles, knowing pretty well this is actually a real mission- not one in which Desmond has re-experienced, "You already have the basics down."
"Not to mention how much you have improved for the last few days," Ezio's accent is now making Desmond mentally groan (at how freaking seductive the Italian is for using the English language), "Congratulations, tesoro. I didn't think my uncle would be impressed."
"You do realize that both of your accents isn't really helping me relax, you know." The American's blush gets a bit darker, "Why can't you... speak in your native language?"
"Oh?" Another chuckle before Altair stole a kiss from Desmond, "And why is that, habibi?" Another pause, "Perhaps there is a part of you who has fallen for that part of us?"
"You guys aren't even playing fair!" A pause, "And my Arabic and Italian sucks!"
"So?" Both Assassin smirk at the same time.
That made the American blink before groaning, "...forget I said that, I have a feeling you can understand me well," Desmond mutters, his face darkening before straightening out, "H-Hey, shouldn't we get going?"
"We should," Ezio then pauses before releasing his hug as he remembered something, "...hold on, do you have your hidden blade at hand?"
Desmond's shoulders instantly drops into one of 'what the hell do you think?' response as he lifts up his right arm, showing his personal hidden blade (the modern one), "And before you ask," He pats the sword on his weapons belt, which surprisingly made him look like a modern warrior now that he thought about it, "..I do have the throwing knives hidden in my jacket; the blade Clay gave me in my pocket, the sword you gave me, the bombs I made from Altair are in my bag, and no, they are not really clunky." A pause, "...I had Teodora help me with the jacket to fit my knives so it will be easier for me to retrieve them."
In all honesty though, He can't help but wonder, Rebecca and Lucy are going to kill me for that since they bought the clothing.
"Ah," The two older men were surprised to see how prepared Desmond was before Altair lets out a chuckle, one of amusement and relief that the young man was not so dense after all. Ezio heaves a sigh of relief, placing his hand over his chest.
"...why do you ask me this?" The American eyes at the two with a bit of suspicion, "Look, I am planning to keep the weapon belt-"
"I know, I know, tesoro mio," Ezio suddenly chuckles as he takes out something from his belt, "But perhaps we have one more thing that can aid you."
That catches Desmond really off-guard.
"...ha?" He blinks, confused before echoing, "...wait, did you just say 'we'?"
"You're not hearing things, habibi," Altair shakes his head as Ezio hands over a package to the young Assassin, "Even if the damned fool and I disagree a lot of a lot of things and fight-"
"For too many reasons," Ezio rolls his eyes, not even caring of Altair is glaring at him to shut up.
"-but we both are proud of you for how much you have overcome to get this far." The Syrian indicates Desmond to open the package, in which the time traveler does... before his eyes slightly widen, revealing what is in front of him.
There are two leather gloves, adorned and flanked with metal plates- shielding the knuckles and the exterior part of the hand; attached with it is a small mechanism that shields a small blade- attached to the middle finger, thumb, and ring finger. The other two items in there are plates that are designated to look like plates- the bands are a bit too wide for the arms and the bands are designated to stretch to the form of the wearer.
Desmond looks at the two Assassins in slight confusion, "What... is this?" He can't help but ask.
"Well," There was a blush on Ezio's face as this time, he is one who is a bit more bashful, "...there are some things about your fighting that the elder and I learned more about- how you also use your fists and knees in combat as points of combats since the bones are sharp enough to land a strike at the opponent-"
"Ezio." Altair halts whatever ramble the Italian man was about to go into, "Stop."
"S-So!?" There was a stammer somewhere, "T-Then how else are we supposed to explain the weapons!?"
Desmond blinks, looking down at the four items before his eyes widen, seeing what the gloves are supposed to be-
"Habibi, the one you are holding are designated to use your fists in a more efficient manner that allows you to use the force to your advantage," Altair was huffing in frustration, but there was a light blush in his face as well, "The two metal plates are knee plates, amplifying your knee attacks and protecting you from one of the points of balance in your legs."
Oh...
When Desmond places the gloves in him, he grips his fists to see the metal plate form to his knuckles without bothering his hand as he outstretches his arm to prevent anyone from being hurt from his experimentation. When he grips tighter, his surprise comes when a small blade appears, the blade smoothly going through the small groove in the middle knuckle as if it was designated to be another hidden blade- except one that is used with punching. Once he begins to loosen the fist, the blade instantly retracts to its protective metal cover as if it wasn't there.
The knee plates were much easier to put on and Desmond can see how much it easily forms to his knees.
"How...?" He asks in surprise, looking at Ezio and Altair in alarm, only to get the two of them glancing away, a bit guiltily this time. Well, Ezio more than Altair.
"To put it plainly," Altair rolls his eyes, seeing as how Ezio is now, "It was to benefit the skills that you have been taught from birth. The brat and I thought it might be a good idea to build the weapons needed for such thing."
Desmond was speechless- looking back down at the hands and at the knee plates before looking back at the two Assassins. The lump in his throat is back, this time with-
"Desmond?" Altair gently asks, walking up to him before beginning to brush away the trickle of tears from Desmond's face, "What's wrong?"
"I..." And more tears pour from his face as he rapidly blinks to try and stop it, "Why...?"
Altair lets out a small sigh before wiping the rest of the tears from the young Assassin's face, "Habibi, do you think we would not do this just to help you?"
"But..."
"Don't try to underestimate yourself, tesoro," Ezio is next to him, now hugging Desmond and pressing calming kisses against the back of his neck, "Haven't Altair and I told you this before?"
The foreigner gives a small nod, closing his eyes as he feels Altair's hands gently caressing Desmond's smoother ones, "Yeah," he mumbles, "I know you guys told me." There is a part of him that wants him to stay with them, to be like this for a long time. The gifts prove it- and there is a part of him that wants to thank the two dearly for what they did.
It's not what the others would do (except for Clay and Connor, but they are family and they are close to him like brothers)- not even his father. The only exception is the hidden blade that was given to him along with the knife, but those were basics of an Assassin.
This...
...what else can he say?
"Thank you." He smiles, placing his left hand on Ezio's hand while squeezing against Altair's with his right, "...thank you. I love it. I'll use it- it'll help me a lot."
"It's meant to be yours, you know that, right?" The Italian gives a small smile, relieved that Desmond plans to use their gifts, "Just use it to your advantage."
The American nods before asking, "Whose idea was it?"
Altair sighs (grudgingly) before grumbling, "It's actually the brat's idea. I would love to take the credit, but that isn't the case."
Desmond blinks, looking at the Italian in surprise, "...really?"
"Well, I had help from Altair's part." Ezio grumbles, scowling, but looking at the American's surprised face, he can't help but feel happy that Desmond likes the gift, "...to be fair, the two of us worked on it."
The American was surprised before he pauses, "Wait- that day when you overheard me... was it about this?"
"It was to make the final touches, to make sure it properly works so that you will not lose a finger. Leonardo manages to make the transition of the blades between your knuckles smooth and not be caught at any moment's haste." The Syrian eyes his right hand- the ring finger missing, "We had to create it at a limited amount of time."
"You mean," Desmond can't help but chuckle, witnessing at one point of Ezio's blacksmith skills (it was sub-par- good enough to at least make a blade), "You two paid someone to do this for you." He lets out a small yelp as the Italian narrows his eyes, smirking in amusement as he pinches Desmond's hand, "Hey!"
"Are you seriously asking me to test my skills as a weapon master?" Ezio was about to tease Desmond again when Altair stands up and whacks Ezio on the head, "OW- bastardo stupido- Cosa diavolo era che par, vecchio!?"
The Syrian's eye slightly twitched, "Perhaps I should remind you who is also more mature than you, idiot. But despite that," He eyes the door with seriousness returning to his face, "We should get going- it's about the time we should all head out."
"Oh, but..." Desmond was about to ask about the other Assassins' part in the entire thing when he silences himself, knowing the answer that they all know what they are doing- this is a mission, "...right. The most obvious thing is don't fail this or else."
"What 'or else'?" Altair frowns, "There is no other condition."
Oh. Desmond mentally groans, forgetting that one thing about missions. ...I forgot about that.
"In any mission," Ezio's arms did leave Desmond's waist as the two Assassins stand before Ezio quickly nips the American, causing said guy to slap his neck in embarrassment (Goddammit the marks are slightly showing! Desmond pales), "What we need more is success. And that," And add in a cheeky grin before leaving the door following Altair, who is tapping his foot in impatience, "That is my mark of good luck, amore mio." He smirks as he passes Altair, "...as is yours, stronzo. Though not for long."
"Shut it, child."
Desmond wants to smack himself for how cliche that sounded just now.
But it did leave a sinking feeling in him, nagging him that there won't be any more time to talk about his life.
Ignoring it, Desmond grabs his bags and the clothing that he folded up before following the two Assassin that were waiting for him.
The way to Frari was- understandably- not that bad. Well, the walking from the Basilica was fairly simple; they all traveled as if they were in a group- which wasn't unusual in this part of Venice. Then they split when they reached to the Canal; Machiavelli's group (him, the ladies, Bartolomeo, Antonio, and Leonardo- well, the artist goes back to his studio to prepare his studio for their endpoint of their plan), but he goes agree to go with the group in case something happens to him on the way) went ahead first to cross the Canal; the five Assassins wait until the two boats that held the larger party vanishes before approaching to the Canal, waiting for an available gondola.
Well, that is, until-
"I am NOT going in there."
Desmond, Ezio, La Volpe, and Mario stare at the only Assassin that instantly shirks back when he saw what they were going to cross the river roads on. When Ezio tries to prevent his snicker (it failed as he begins to shake in laughter), he gains Mario's glare and La Volpe pinching the bridge of his nose in ire over at this- ridiculous predicament. Desmond, on the other hand, lets out a heavy groan before walking over to the Syrian.
"Hey, are you all getting in or not!?" They can hear the boatman tap impatiently in the gondola port, "I might have other customers to help, you know!"
"Dio, I am going to kill this man..." Mario groans before walking over to the boatman. La Volpe and Ezio share a wary glance before going after Mario to at least try to appease both him and the boatman, leaving Desmond with Altair.
"It's a gondola, Altair," The American was hoping he got that right, "We are not going to fall in the water. I know that-" He glances to the canal, "Those are what the boats are here for."
The Syrian grunts, "Even if that is the case, boats can capsize. That does not make any sort of difference to me."
That still didn't make Altair budge, huh...? Desmond hangs his head, going to somehow regret what he's about to. Remember, Des, this is just to encourage him... not because you want to kiss him again... (in which Desmond is lying to himself about that).
"Altair," The Syrian was about to snap back at Desmond when he feels soft lips brush up against his own in a quick, chaste kiss before quickly going away. Altair's eyes were slightly wide as he sees a bashful Desmond, pocketing his jacket as he looks away.
"...what was that for?"
"To let you know that... that I'm with you when we cross that river, okay?" Desmond's face is red as he quickly mutters out the second part of his sentence, causing Altair to lift Desmond's face up to meet sharpening dark amber.
"Say that again?"
"And... and if you calm down and get on," Desmond grumbles, getting even more embarrassed, "...I'll give you a kiss again as a reward."
Altair was surprised before chuckling with amusement as his eyes slightly glinted with mirth and determination before they swirled with love and desire-
"Come on, bastardo!" Ezio hisses to the three as La Volpe and Mario try to distract the annoyed gondola bower, "Let's hurry before he decides to go away!"
"We're coming, Ezio!" Desmond manages to gesture Ezio before grabbing Altair's hand, "Come on!"
It wasn't until when the three Assassins manage to reach to the harbor did Mario pay the boatman with a lot of money (possibly for the trouble for going through this) before La Volpe follows, muttering something to the older man about anger control issues. Ezio shakes his head before entering in the boat; Desmond was going to step in when he gets pulled back by the Syrian. The American was about to say something-
"Perhaps you need more than a simple kiss to persuade me, habibi," Altair murmurs, a smirk evident on his lips, "But for now because of time... this will do."
Desmond's face paints a shade darker than usual as he enters in the boat with Altair following behind him; by the time all five of them were seated in the gondola, the boatman shoves the boat away and gently glides through the Canal to the location Mario is pointing to. Knowing the length of the Canal, this will take a while to find a safe port for them to land.
It wasn't until he feels Ezio gently tap his arm that he looks at the Italian.
"How did you convince Altair to come in?"
"Just a bit of persuasion," Desmond grumbles in response, seeing as how Altair is closing his eyes and trying to lean back against the side of the boat to avoid any motion sickness, "...why?"
"Well..." The Italian pouts, "Perhaps I want to see how you got him to get in the boat, tesoro."
The American gawks before turning to see if Altair can even hear this-
"I'm pretty sure he doesn't mind as much, tesoro," Ezio chuckles, "...even if I envy his company around you."
"Oh for the love of God..." Desmond quietly mutters (and checking to see if the two other Assassins are busy aiding the boatman- which they are- and if there is nobody else around the Canal) before giving Ezio a chaste kiss, just like the one he gave Altair earlier, before pulling away, his face red, "In case you decide to pull some stupid excuse, claiming that you'll be seasick without it."
"Ah," Ezio was slightly surprised to see how forward Desmond was with that; it was a bit shy, but for once, his tesoro was more forward with his affections. He gives a small smile, subconsciously feeling his lips to savor the feeling not to long ago.
The rest of the boat-ride was silent- well, if not counting how Mario and La Volpe are helping the boatman find the right canal to stop at and leave.
"There, now that wasn't so bad, was it?" Desmond squeezes the Syrian's hand as the five left the gondola. Well, Mario having to deal with the boatman again because of what he said and La Volpe and Ezio has to deal with calming Mario and the boatman down before drawing an attention over something stupidly trivial (as over the extra pay the boatman wanted for the 'extra distances and time to find the right canal').
Altair nods, a grunt being his response as he shakes himself, "That was troublesome to deal with."
Desmond chuckles before kissing the Syrian, this time a bit longer and deeper before releasing it, mentally glad that they weren't caught by anyone yet, "Maybe one day you'll tell me why you hate swimming so much."
"For a later day, habibi," Altair chuckles, his smile going before vanishing quickly as the three Italian Assassins walk up to where they are, "Let's go."
Silence overwhelms the five Assassins as they begin to climb up the rooftops of one of the more noisier houses in Venice and begin their trek towards the Frari, which now that Desmond just sees it, wasn't too far off from the Canal- it was just the matter of time and endurance of just getting to their target location.
It wasn't until about one-third of the way that the subject was brought up again- this was over at one of the locals' events that they are holding, so the amount of racket made overwhelms the thuds and footsteps the five Assassins were making.
"...I still can't believe the great and almighty Altair Ibn-La'Ahad is frightened of stepping foot in water." Ezio lets out a snort of laughter.
For once, Desmond was so grateful for having La Volpe restrain Altair with him (he manages to easily convince Altair to not take out his hidden blade and to stab someone- namely one very certain Florence Assassin) while Mario talks to his nephew about his childish behavior (if you can count smacking Ezio on the shoulders and slowly threatening him about something that regards blackmail as an effective way to shut Ezio up).
It seems as if by the time they have reached near the Frari, there was already some sort of event going on (Desmond wasn't exactly sure of what it was, but this was something he did not witness). By the time they met up with one of Antontio's allies, however to get the news of what is going on, they realize that it was some sort of celebration regarding one of the more locally important noble's birthday.
...or rather, the son of the noble's taking place at a more local area.
The one thing that did bother Desmond about all of this was that they were indirectly involving the lives of the innocents just to get to the Frari, to get what they need, and getting out. The other thing that didn't exactly bother Desmond was at the moment he sees most of the guards there, he was somewhat relieved to see the Frari fairly devoid of all guards.
Turns out that Niccolo had some sort of back-plan to all of this, after all (well, who would? It was something of a one-time effort for them, despite his age); he does have his mysterious influences. No doubt that Teodora and Paola did some handiwork (there were ladies in there, after all). Antonio and his group of thieves along with some of Bartolomeo's mercenaries (no doubt promised fun and some form of chaos on their end) were waiting for their signal- Bartolomeo and Niccolo are going to stir up some form of trouble. Leonardo wasn't there- which meant they safely escorted him back to his studio.
All the American would hope is that they won't get killed in the process.
"Huh." La Volpe sounded a bit disappointed, but he is surprised, "They managed to pull it off really well."
"Considering how much you don't trust Machiavelli, that is," Ezio chuckles, seeing how loud and rowdy most of the men have gotten while most of the women wisely stayed away from the rougher fights, "You have to admit, he's done a good job with the others."
The Florence thief shakes his head before taking a few steps back to look for any more guards around the vicinity.
"Not bad planning," Altair can't help but smirk, knowing so far there wasn't a hitch, "Now it's the matter of entering in the church."
Mario glances to his nephew, who nods before looking for a certain wall before leaping towards one of the lower rooftops, no guard in sight (normally, there would have been, but it seems as his attention was attracted to the chaos). The five follow suit before seeing Ezio examine the area and seeing a door with the obvious red painted cross on it.
Desmond can't help but wonder whether this is the best or the worst luck he's encountered as he stares at Ezio. Mario, La Volpe, and Altair just glance at it warily before turning to Ezio, who can't help but grin.
"I told you there is one." He smirks, "And it took a while to get that treasure too."
Mario groans, "I don't know if this is a good thing or bad thing that you stole something from the Templars."
"What about the Apple!?"
"That's an exception!"
"Be grateful." La Volpe deadpans, "I'm not sure if I should be proud or slap you on the head, idiota Ezio."
Altair lets out a thin sigh, not really exactly expecting... okay, he was expecting this.
"This is a Templar door." And adding with (this time, with another round of seething irritation, "...and you managed to enter in their territory without getting caught."
"Hey, at least I am fine now," Ezio is getting irritated as he grabs the door knob, "Shall we enter or no?"
The haystack was- for once- a freaking curse on Desmond as he was the unfortunate soul to jump from the ledge to the pile of hay. Hence him managing to try his best to silence himself once he felt contact with the fucking sharp hay on his face and through his jeans as he is gritting his teeth to silence his pain.
This, of course, earns a look of confusion from the obviously unharmed Altair and Ezio; Mario is brushing off hay before looking at the young man in confusion while La Volpe just stares at Desmond.
"I. Hate. Hay." The American manages to grit out in a whisper.
"Ah."
Desmond's left eye twitches as he abruptly stands up to get rid of the accursed damned dry straws of hay that are sticking to him, Thanks a lot for the concern, of course I'm fine with diving into a pile of fucking needles!That is, before he sees Altair shoot a look of concern before twitching a chuckle with a smile, knowing the irritation Desmond felt when diving into dried out grass. That- at least gave some comfort to the American as he mouths out, I'm fine.
Altair quirks a smile, mentally relieved.
Ezio silently indicates to the ladder that leads to another ledge that leads to a closed door- the one that leads to the actual entrance to the Frari.
Desmond nods as he swiftly follows Altair and Ezio up the ladder with Mario and La Volpe behind him, knowing pretty well this is the point of no return. On the back of his mind, there was something nagging him that maybe it was a good idea to place on the earpiece and make sure the others know where Desmond is so that he can tell them about the map.
When they reach to the doorway and allowing La Volpe and Mario to go ahead and join Altair as the Syrian manages to silently open the door to see if they can inspect a bit for the inside of the Frari and seeing if it is safe, Desmond was about to tell them that he needs to get out something when he feels someone's hands on his wrist, causing him to jerk up and see Ezio.
"I was..." he trails off, seeing the serious look on the Italian's face, "...you okay?"
"This is not the best time."
Desmond can't help but cock his head in confusion.
The Italian Assassin lets out a small chuckle before glancing at his bag, "The thing you talk on. I believe that you called it the communicator?"
The younger man was about to ask Ezio what he meant until his eyes trails towards his bag before muttering in embarrassment, "...oh."
"If I were you," Ezio's eyes flash in concern in an instant, tightening his grip on Desmond's wrist, "I would not take it out- for the safety of all five of us. I am not sure why-" He pauses, "But I fear the noise will give us away to the guards."
"Wha- guards-"
Desmond was about to ask why the ever living hell guards would need to be in a church at the night, but he falls silent under Ezio's silent stare that usually meant it was not only a bad idea, but that he could potentially be correct.
The American mentally groans.
Great.
Despite the fact that most of them are distracted by what the commotion going on nearby the Frari...
It's still guards. There are some who are still sharp at this absurd time of night. And the chances of them being caught is very very high.
It's not worth it, even if I do want to ask the others to at least help me navigate through this church...
"...I guess I won't take it out then." Desmond sighs, taking his hand away from the bag before nodding at Ezio, "Okay... let's play this by ear."
Ezio nods, a small smile appearing before quickly going away as Desmond catches it in confusion. Was there- relief in his eyes?
Well, there isn't anymore problems to deal with, right?
"I hate to break the news to you both," Altair's eyes flash gold again before opening to his usual dark amber, "But it seems as if there are some guards in the Frari."
"But I thought..." Desmond trails off before groaning, "No way. No fucking way. I thought the entire point of the distraction was to draw all attention to the guards."
"You mean from outside the Frari," La Volpe grumbles, not particularly happy about this new development, "There are some guards inside the Frari- these were not the ones we actually had to anticipate."
"Dio. You are joking." Ezio pales as he was about to strangle the Syrian, but he sees Mario shakes his head, silently indicating to the door that lead to the actual interior of the Frari, "The last time I entered in, there were no guards in the Frari- I actually had the freedom to run around the area with no one around!"
"Would you like to see?" Mario grumbles, "I had a good look myself- and there are a few number of guards inside."
The Florence Assassins stares unbelievably at the two older men before silently opening the door- his eyes suddenly flashing gold. Then a good ten seconds later, he manages to shut the door without making a sound before seething, "Merda."
Desmond gulps. Oh. Fuck.
"Are they the Templars?" La Volpe asks Ezio, who shakes his head, "What emblem did they have?"
"Blue, gold, and the coat of arms from Venice." And another pause, "Along with some wearing white, red, and yellow with the coat of arms of Rome."
That made Mario sigh in relief as La Volpe grimaces, knowing pretty well who the guards are from. Altair frowns, "...they are not from the enemy?"
"No. They must be sent from the Vatican- ordering to the Venetian government to prevent any sort of bloodshed or any sort of disturbance," Mario quietly muses, "And to prevent any sort of thefts that any petty thieves would attempt on the Church. There are two guards working with each other. We still have to be careful- we must not attract the attention of the Vatican or the Venetian government."
Desmond was itching to ask La Volpe if he did anything to involve any church thefts- but even if that was the case, the infamous thief of Florence wouldn't sink that low just to earn some money from the streets.
The main concern was how to get past these guards to get to the item... wherever the hell that is.
"I thought guards would normally not enter in here during the daytime," Ezio was not happy about this new development, "Merda. And here I thought this would be easy."
"What would be easy?" Altair warily glances at Ezio, "Gaining a Piece of Eden when there are other men that would easily want to tail us for what we are searching for now?"
Ezio was about to snap back, but knowing the amount of trouble for gaining the Apple of Eden that he possess, he just groans, "Thank you for having that much confidence within us, bastardo. Perhaps you should've been there when I grabbed the Apple from Borgia."
"You're welcome." Altair closes his eyes, shaking his head.
"...now what?" Desmond whispers, gulping as he turns back to the thief, who sighs, a slight grimace on his face.
"Let us pray to God that we do not get caught by Borgia's men." La Volpe mutters, seeing Ezio's wary glance as well, "...and that Borgia himself does not show up."
"But what if that happens!?" Desmond can't help but hiss, slight panic in his voice. He saw what happened in the struggle for the Apple and how a certain Borgia member tried to take the box from Ezio and the others, "I- I mean, what if he gets ahold of the Piece of Eden again!?" He knows La Volpe and Mario are looking at him, but Ezio grips the youngest man's hand.
"We are more prepared this time," The Italian Assassin quietly replies, his eyes narrowing at the last struggle for the Apple that he knows is in possession of Machiavelli's hands (he knows the politician won't dare open it- even after they inspected it for the first time), "Borgia doesn't have the map, he has no idea what item we are looking for."
That did assure Desmond a little bit as he numbly nods, relaxing a bit.
"This man, Borgia." Altair asks as he glances over at the other Assassins, "Was he prepared to take the Apple with him?"
"The last time he had his squadron take the item with the utmost secrecy," Mario grimaces, "It was around that time and days before that we have heard rumors flying around, saying that there was an item Borgia desired that will change the course of history." The oldest man pauses, "We had our insiders mention about this to Ezio, hence we aided him in the retrieval of the Apple."
"With Borgia himself at the scene, we barely managed to get the Apple away from him," La Volpe's lips were drawn into a thin line, "It was at the time we were lucky that he did not open the box to reveal the item."
"I see..." Altair quietly replies, feeling stares from the other three Assassins (well, incredulous ones), "Are all of you considering that he might have heard about what we are looking for?"
Ezio's eyes narrow, "On our way here, I heard some guards saying that they will send some guards to the more important areas in Venice after the scuffle- including the Frari. These are the mercenaries and guards the Boriga family have. It won't be long before they will realize where most of the Assassins are."
"What!?" Mario's eyes widen in horror, "Are you positive about this, nipote!?"
"How- how the hell did that happen?" Desmond nearly gawks out in horror, which was beginning to grow, "Nobody mentioned a thing about it to the outside- nobody had the map!"
"Whatever it was that alerted that bastardo Borgia," Ezio was mentally seething, "It must have been an outside source- not one of our Assassins have blurted a thing to the guards."
"...shit," The American pales before gritting his teeth, knowing that this means everything will be screwed over if Borgia does get to the Piece of Eden before they do- even if they did have the advantage of entering into the Frari through the secret passageway, "Shit! He'll get to it and then what do we do!? I-"
"Desmond." Altair's voice cuts though, completely halting what could have been Desmond's incoming rant of panic, "Calm down. Brat," He aims a death glare at Ezio,"Don't even think about it. There is a very good chance that he may never get to it- even with the information this Borgia has received- he will dismiss it since he will go for the one wielding the most power. The guards will be easy to bypass, even if we would taken the other course of action to go straight in."
"And pray tell, elder, why the hell not?" Ezio glares at Altair, wanting to know if by some means, there is some sort of miracle- before his dark amber eyes widen in slight horror and freezes, seeing a familiar faint golden glow taken out from the pocket of Altair's pouches, "...no way- imposible-!"
"It's not yours, if that is what your train of thought is, brat. Not the one that caused your allies to suffer under the screech that all of us endured and causing Desmond to have that effect," Altair quietly hisses, but compared to what the one sealed in the box did, this one was more subdued, controlled, and quiet. Unfortunately, Desmond's face pales as soon as he sees the all-familiar and all dreaded artifact Master Assassin of Masyaf has in his left hand.
"...it's the one that I had for a while."
And then it suddenly makes sense to the time traveler- everything just came in place like puzzle pieces. How Altair manages to understand Desmond too easily, how simple English, Italian, and Latin came to the elder, how they were able to understand him when he spoke in Arabic. How he was able to read what Desmond actually wrote in English and was able to comprehend in the basics of the future technology...
How he was able to follow Desmond from 12th century Masyaf, Jerusalem to Venice, Italy in the 16th century without having some sort of harsh repercussions.
And how Altair was able to understand what Desmond was going through in the Animus and why he didn't get as furious as Ezio when the time traveler explained how he was able to witness everything in their lives.
And why Desmond wasn't suffering from the Bleeding Effect right now- it seems as if it was more subdued, more obiendent to the Syrian's mind.
It was the Apple that Altair possessed from Al Mualim.
End Part 18.1
...yeah, I know. Before I can expect to hear someone complain (I am going to bet that there will be one) about this, the whole 'able to understand a lot with the Apple' plot has been used before. It was either that, or there would have been a language barrier that would've been severely limited to the point in which my mind was scrambling around the idea that perhaps Altair would've had some knowledge about other languages.
That, and it's also because I don't want to delve into how freaking complicated the Animi program would be had it been developed in real life (like I want to research all of that and try to wrap my head around how much programming and energy that would've costed in the world of Assassin's Creed- considering I have other things to plan out and honestly, I am scared to find out how much planning this would've took from the people at Ubisoft).
Researching about the maps and districts of Italy are a pain. For those of you wanting to know why I had to go through that, it's because I have to make sure they have to be accurate enough for the story so it has to be believable. Also, wasn't there something about how you can't use a horse in Venice in the games? (Which I somehow associate with a mental image of one of the Assassins riding a horse like Sgt. Angel did in Hot Fuzz)
*This was actually Niccolo Machiavelli's family history. Bear in mind that he is around 19-20 years old when this story happens and how Ezio knows of him. By this time, it might be implied that he could've began his influences in the Italian politics and dabbled a bit into it (or maybe learned a lot about it). As an interesting side note, Niccolo wrote The Prince around the late 1510's- when he was probably in some sort of pseudo-exile.
Also, I did try to look up the best way from the Basilica di San Marco to Basilica di Frari. In any route look up, it does have to involve going through the Canal Grande- considering that gondolas are used in Venice in Ezio's time. And not to mention about the several humorous mentioning that in the games, Altair can't swim in the rivers that well (or is this because the controls for it are just that difficult?).
What's next: The Apple vs. The guards. This is going to go really well (it's not).