TMWolf: And it's update time! Right, so I'm on vacation next week, starting a two week one, but I should be able to update on time. We'll see~ Anyways, here's a long "montage" chapter to hopefully keep you satisfied until next update.
As usual (and totally have forgotten to put this lately whoops lol), how I write the canon is based upon my interpretation of events and information~
So for reviews-thanks so much for all of them, guys! They means a lot and I always appreciate them! Please feel free to leave any comments or questions. I'm always happy to answer so long as there's no spoilers :')
Hale93: Sorry Ezio doesn't seem very manly/serious right now. Really, it comes out because I don't have as many serious situations as I would like, but it's also because Ezio wasn't always serious-serious, and would get playful even during the game, so I try to balance it out. Also, the story focuses on Cat's POV in third person, and when Ezio is with her, he's more relaxed and able to be playful. She's almost an enabler of sorts, but she's also someone he trusts and can be not-serious around, so that's pretty why. He is serious when he needs to be, though, promise, and you'll see more of those moments to come. Sorry again if it he doesn't seem as serious as can be right now. He's still growing a little, too xD
Lola: Aww thanks so much! I'm so glad you love it! Updated are pretty much every other week so keep an eye out! :)
xoxo: Sorry, but it's not gonna be that easy ;D Just give it time, hahaha.
Right, so I think that's all for that... the chapter is from Kid Rock's - All Summer Long. No connection with the lyrics, but the chapter is a montage spanning all of the summer, so... yeah. It fit xD
Anyways, on to the chapter! Enjoy! :'D
36 – All Summer Long
May 2, 1478
Florence, Italy
"Ow!" Ezio hissed, shaking his hand. Catherine, meanwhile, gazed ahead coolly, her hands back on the saddle pommel after having slapped the young man's.
"I told you—keep them on the waist," she snapped quickly, which only got a grumble from Ezio. He knew better, so of course he had nothing to say. Instead, he pouted and made huffing sounds. Being side-saddle, it was easy to look up at him with a tilt of her head and raise a brow. "Excuse me? Are you pouting? I told you the rules—you agreed to them. If you touch me, it better be on the waist."
"Yes, my lady," he sighed with exasperation, but did return an arm to her waist before urging the horses into a trot. Catherine turned her gaze back to the landscape, which had become exceedingly familiar. It was to be expected, though; they had passed by the closest village hours ago, and in the distance there were the flags raised high above the towers of the city. Monteriggioni was not far at all, and soon the stone walls would be in sight. Not even thirty minutes and they'd be there, and Catherine was all too happy to be able to get there. As fun as the ride had been with Ezio using any and every moment to either go too low or too high making her smack him or the small talk they had about what fate awaited them at home, she was glad it would be over. Even side saddle, her legs were a little sore, although her arm and side did not hurt thanks to Ezio handling things. That, and she'd be happy to walk and sleep in her bed and eat more of Annetta's food.
First, though, they had to get home and have some chats.
Despite the fun on the road, she hadn't forgotten there were things to take care of. Ezio had finally managed to mention he'd sent word to Mario ahead of time and gotten a letter the same night when at Paola's. The older man had mentioned that their courtesans had arrived with Annetta not far behind. Ghita was already getting the last preparations for the brothel done, too, and was ready to take up her roll. La Volpe's representative and men he sent to work for them were also there, and a decent-sized building that hadn't seen much use besides a supply storage was now serving as their home. They were currently decorating it and making it how they wanted, and after the city folk were assured they would never be stolen from—by word from Mario under threat of punishment—things were doing alright. Still, there might be tension yet until things were completely done and trust was built.
Beyond that, though, it meant their forces were exceedingly stronger than they had been in ages. Not only were there swords, they had secrets and swift hands. Monteriggioni's prowess had been spreading, and with it so, too, would their forces. Mario had plans he wished to discuss, and some things she and Ezio had mentioned involved getting their people to San Gimignano and the country side, searching for secrets from guards, politicians, and anyone willing to talk, and relieving anyone with a bit more coin than they might need of their burden. It was something grand to consider, but if it worked, it would prove useful—especially when their enemy had gone into hiding.
Catherine sighed and turned her head towards him, "Stop—I'll ride into the city."
"Oh, no, no; you're hurt," he grinned, but she only rolled her eyes.
"I can ride the rest of the way plenty fine, thanks. Besides, do you actually want to give Ottavio any leeway? I know you enjoy torturing him on his bet—of which is still friggin' ridiculous," she rumbled, glaring slightly.
He waited a moment before grinning and slowing the horses, "You're right. I do. Payback for training, I guess. Thus… I shall concede to your whims, my dear lady. Who am I to say no to beautiful woman, after all?"
"You certainly never can," she hummed dryly, making him wince, but she ignored it as she slipped off. She winced herself when a tiny jolt went through the wound on her leg from the jarring, but then she walked it off to her horse. Ezio kindly relieved himself of the reigns and she was able to hop up. Briefly, she noted there was guilt in his features, and even more briefly, she was glad for it—almost cruelly so. She thought he deserved it, but that wasn't fair of her. He didn't deserve it in the slightest, really. She was just being petty and jealous—that was all.
She sighed slightly, looking to him, "Ready?"
"When you are," he nodded, looking to her almost cautiously.
"Then let's head home," she smiled back, earning one from him, and she urged her steed into a trot. He followed right after, and things were relatively quiet the rest of the way, which wasn't long at all. Sure enough, the gates were soon visible along with the improved stalls outside. Work was still in progress, with workers and supplies out, but already they had a handful more horses. They still had the same stable-hand, though, and he was happy to welcome them back and get their horses rested. In the meantime, they made for the gates where two mercenaries stood watch and welcomed them—along with those up top. The new flag was a nice touch, and showed all their enemies exactly who they were messing with. Once, that might have been a danger, but now they were much stronger and so displayed it with pride.
Catherine smiled, sharing in that feeling, and passed underneath. It felt good to be home and to see familiar faces and sights—and new ones, too. A pair of courtesan ladies clad in their alluring clothing passed by, waving, winking, and cooing at Ezio before walking on with giggles. The young man grinned sheepishly, coughing how they should move on. She couldn't help grinning a little bit to see him made so awkward by it around her, although it faltered as she realized he would probably go off on his own later to "introduce" himself. Again, she chastised herself. There was no reason to think such things or get upset over them. If Ezio wished to do it, then so be it—they had no obligation to one another.
"It's only been a few days, but the city seems so…" the young man began, stealing her thoughts back to the present.
She grinned once more, "Bigger? Well, there are more people. Just look at the visitors—so many new faces. The inn and taverns all around here must be packed."
"I know… it's… unbelievable, and we're not even fully repaired. Just imagine what will happen when it's all done!" Ezio laughed, head turning this way and that as they walked through the main street. The shops looked better than ever, and there were more than a few customers at each. Mario must have had the men working hard over the past few days, and with Vieri gone it gave more time to do so. At least, that was what Catherine figured—that, or she just hadn't noticed the state of things as well as she should have.
"I wonder if we'll expand in the open area around here—spruce up those farm homes or maybe grow some more vineyards. The last year has been good to the crops, and with the weather doing so good…"
Ezio hummed thoughtfully, "Selling our own wine rather than importing it would be useful, although I know Uncle wanted to focus on armaments. We still need better equipment, and the city walls could always use more defenses now that the walls have been solidified."
"True… well, Claudia knows what to do and will figure out what can be done, and hey; the city has come really far in just a few years. No doubt it'll go farther even faster now," she added with her own thoughtful sound.
"I should think so… bah! What are we doing talking about such nonsense? We just got home! We can relax a little!" he laughed, wrapping an arm around her shoulders. She raised a brow, but he didn't move his arm. She supposed she should have, but she decided to let it be as she shrugged. She paused, though, as she realized he'd called this place "home"—even after having been in Florence. The notion made her smile, which he noticed and raised his own brow. "What are you smiling about?"
"Hmm? Oh! Nothing, nothing. Just… glad to be home, too," she mused, freeing herself from his arm and trotting ahead. He made a confused sound before following right on her heels, and continued at her side as they made their way through the main road. Again, more familiar and new faces appeared, and then all were familiar after they ascended the stairs to the training area. At once they were bestowed with cheers and whoops and given claps on the shoulder by their fellow mercenaries. They had been well updated on things, and already there were words stirring in the country side. The enemy was on the run, and they would kill them all soon. For now, though, the two were left to return to the Villa—at Ottavio's behest and order—as Mario and the others were waiting for them.
Sure enough, as soon as they entered there was a decent-sized group waiting for them. Claudia was the nearest and embraced her brother right away and then Catherine, professing her joy they were alright. Mario came next, also embracing them, though not as tightly. He congratulated them on their work—both in ending Francesco, and acquiring new allies. In regards to that, he motioned to Annetta and Ghita, whom stood side by side. The maid wore her usual garbs, but the former head maid of the Villa had changed dramatically. Gone were her dull, casual robes, replaced with elegant shades of red and orange, adorned with gold trims and jewelry and fancy hair nets. Make-up was settled on her face here and there, transforming her into an enchanting beauty—one none would have expected. She carried herself much higher, too; there was a new aura about her in the way she smiled and spoke.
"So… you're the new head of the brothel, eh? Wouldn't have pegged you the type, to be honest," Catherine mused once she freed herself from Mario, making sure to avoid Annetta's scrutinizing gaze.
"There was no reason to show it with the brothel gone. I made better use of myself here in the Villa, but now that it's finished… Well, here I am," the woman smiled, spreading her arms to show herself.
"You will have to name it you know," Annetta spoke up a she reached to adjust one of Ghita's ornaments. "Mario did not bother to, so the honor should be yours."
"Oh, good—I had one in mind already."
"As do I!" Ezio suddenly laughed, gathering their attention. He winked playfully at the redhead. 'The Sultry Cat'!"
Catherine balked, "I—wait—what? How about we don't call it that you weirdo!"
"Indeed. We are not calling it that, my young Lord," Ghita replied coolly, narrowing her eyes enough to make the young man slink back a little with a cheeky grin. "No, I intend to name it The Carnal Rose."
"A fine name, my lady. I expect you will take care of it properly," Mario mused, though he grinned as he did so.
Ghita raised a brow, "If you mean I will ensure your men are well satisfied and I learn all the secrets there are from visitors here to all the countryside… then, yes. I will."
"Oh come now, I know the great importance of your work," he chuckled, but the woman only made an "mmhmm" sound.
"And you will need to keep it up—I expect there to be plenty of coin coming in. As per our deal, the more you bring in, the more budget goes to you and improving this place and those around," Claudia piped up, hands on her hip as she kept a knowing look on her face.
Ghita chuckled, bowing her head, "Of course, my dear. I assure you, once I am done with the ladies, you will have more coin than ever coming in. I only ask the expensive aromatics are acquired—they do wonders for business."
"She speaks truly—my sister uses a very special aphrodisiac and it… well, many customers are not new to her establishment," Annetta smiled, almost coyly.
"Then so be it. I will order some to begin with, and then you must provide your end," the young Auditore mused in return.
"Jesus, Claudia—when did you become such a savvy business woman?" Catherine mused, brow raised with a grin.
"What do you think I've been doing while you two have trained and been off doing your 'business'?" she quipped right back, huffing some.
"Ah, my little sister is growing up it seems. Before I know it you'll be showing the soldiers a thing or two," Ezio smirked, taking his little sister's hands in his. She smiled a bit back, squeezing lightly.
"Perhaps. But I am far less inclined to such brutish means—unlike someone."
The redhead pouted, "Hey!"
"Now, now; let us not squabble. Rather, let us celebrate my nephew and Catherine's victorious return. I believe a feast is in order, no?" Mario laughed, clapping Catherine's shoulder and looking between them all.
"I am afraid I must decline—I have ladies and new clients to attend to," Ghita bowed politely, and after a few farewells made her way out. Once the door closed, Annetta looked to them and motioned to the dining hall door.
"Supper is already ready. We were only waiting for your return."
"Ugh, I could use a good meal," Catherine smirked, looking to Ezio, whom returned it.
"As would I. Shall we?"
"Indeed we shall, and please—tell us all that happened," Mario added, venturing towards the room. The others made to follow, but Ezio paused as Claudia suddenly grasped his hand. He looked to her, head tilted curiously.
"And you will… speak of… how things are?" she asked softly. Catherine paused to look back at them, just as the older brother cupped his sister's cheek. She saw him smile and nod, and then she turned around to let them be and head in for supper.
-O-
"Ugh, I think I ate too much," Catherine laughed to Ezio after waving to Claudia, whom sauntered off to do more book work and speak with the architect. Mario, like-wise, went to discuss things, but also to see to his men. Annetta was busy tending to the household and working with her new fellow servants, which left things fairly quiet. The house was tidying down with supper having gone on a long time. There was much to talk about, after all, although a good deal of Templar plans had not been mentioned. However, all their talk of ideas of things for Monteriggioni did, and it seemed many might come to fruition. It was a tantalizing thought, and both Mario and Claudia seemed to like them. There was plenty of money for it, too, or would be, and with the younger sister's work it would be no trouble at all. First, though, there were adjustments to be done on the city's weapons and armaments, and coin needed to be invested in the campaign in San Gimignano to root out their enemy and spruce it up.
"I've not had a feast from Annetta like that in a long while—I feel like I've eaten too much, too," Ezio grinned, rubbing his belly.
She snickered, smacking it lightly much to his chagrin, "Be careful, or you'll get fat."
"You'd still love me if I was," he winked, getting an eye-roll from her.
"Pfft. I don't even love you now."
He feigned hurt, clutching his chest, "You're terrible! How can you not?"
"Because you're terrible, that's why," she snorted, pushing him away slightly before heading up the stairs. He followed right on her heels of course, and took her hand to place a kiss. She raised a brow, hand on her hip as he grinned. "I'm sorry, was I supposed to swoon?"
"I will catch you if you do," he winked again. Once more she rolled her eyes and pulled her hand away to brush by him.
"Don't count on it, you dork," she mused, shaking her head, and then pausing on the top. He caught up, of course, and leaned against the near wall, arms folded over his chest.
"Have I mentioned I enjoy your denial?" he purred, brow waggling.
"'Denial', huh? Well, I can guarantee there's absolutely nothing to be in denial about," she hummed, also folding her arms over her chest
"You reek of it."
"And you reek of delusion. Now, are we going to stand here arguing about whether or not I know myself to be in denial, or can I go sleep off my full stomach? We do have to start training again and go over more things with Mario while we wait to find the Pazzi."
Ezio waited a moment, watching her with what looked disappointment, and then sighed. His shoulders slumped as he pouted and stepped off the wall. He regarded her again before shrugging.
"Very well. You're no fun tonight, but—," he began, lifting a hand to stop he retort, "—not necessarily a bad thing. I need to speak to Mother. I've got something for her."
When she looked at him curiously, he smiled and shuffled through a pouch on his waist. He revealed a plush, white feather with only a few flecks of dirt on it. With a quick brush of his fingers it was clean again. Confusion remained on the redhead's face, and so his expression grew soft as he looked to the door of his mother's room.
"It's perhaps silly, but… remember when we returned from our fight with Vieri? I told you I was going to try this? Well, I did… I apologize for never mentioning it, but when I gave it to her… She spoke to me—thanked me. She smiled, too. I've been giving them to her every time I've found one ever since."
"So… feathers… is that… so she's… been… better?" Catherine asked softly, reaching towards it, but hesitating. Ezio put it into her hand for her, pushing her limb back to her as he nodded.
"She did not eat with us tonight, but… she is better. She's spoken briefly, though you don't know it."
The redhead flushed, gently brushing the feather, "I, ah… I suppose I haven't… I um… Sorry, I… I just… I couldn't bring myself to… to see her."
"Catherine, it's alright... but perhaps you can make good on it now," he replied, and chuckled when she looked up, puzzled. He motioned to the door. "Go take it to her. Speak with her. I know it's been bothering you—I've seen you looking before, but I didn't think I should mention it just yet."
"Wha—oh, Ezio, no, I couldn't. It's your thing for her, and I don't… would she… would she even want to see me? I haven't even barely looked at her ever since you got here!"
He grasped her shoulders gently, "Catherine, she wants to see you. Trust me. Just… go talk to her. Just give her the feather and bid her goodnight. That's all you need to do."
"But…"
"Catherine, trust me. It's all you need to do. So go do it. And goodnight," he grinned almost cheekily as he gave her a small peck on the forehead before suddenly spinning around and heading off. She flushed madly, touching at the spot, and meant to growl at him, but he was gone through the hallway, out of sight. She groaned, looking down at the feather, and then to Maria's door. Her heart fluttered uneasily and with indecision in her chest, but Ezio had set her up damn good. She had the feather, and now she felt even guiltier for putting this off for so long. It had been so easy with all her work, but now—now she had the time and the means.
It almost wasn't fair.
Sighing deeply, Catherine rubbed the back of her neck before slowly, but surely making her way over. Like always, she paused before the door. She lifted her hand, ready to knock, and hesitated. Her guilt made her do it, she knew, and she hated herself for it. Ezio's encouragement was there, though—his assurance, especially. It helped. It was enough to make her bite her lip, suck in a deep breath of air, and rap ever-so-lightly on the door. She didn't hear an answer at first, causing her to waver, but she reclaimed her vigor, knocked once more, and entered.
Maria was kneeling beside her bed, adorned in her sleeping gown, with her head lowered in prayer. Just barely, Catherine could make out her whispers—her soft words to whoever might be listening. The redhead was able to really see her again after all this time, and her chest stung at the sight of her; to see her beauty wallowed some. It was not too far gone, and certainly she would still be considered beautiful, but there was a weariness to her; haggardness. She bore the weight of the world on her shoulders it seemed, and it had added a wrinkle or two along with a few strands of gray hairs. Even so, it was Maria, and the only true loss was the pride with which she had carried herself.
"Um…" Catherine began softly, glancing down at the feather in her hand, and then back to the woman. She did not even pause in her words, and so the redhead waited a moment or two before she realized the woman wouldn't stop. Swallowing, the redhead set the feather down in front of Maria on the bed and stepped back slightly. "I, ah… here. It's, uh… for you. Ezio said… he said you like these."
She waited for a moment, and just as she lost hope, Maria paused. Her words became silence and her head turned towards the object. Slowly, she reached out and grasped the feather gingerly. She brushed it slowly, and, just barely, Catherine saw a smile. Her heart fluttered with hope, and she waited again. She watched, too; noting how the woman brought it close to her breast, closed her eyes, and whispered a name—almost as if just mouthing it. She couldn't make it out either way, but the woman stood up and looked to the redhead. There was a light to her eyes that she didn't remember seeing in a long, long time.
"Catherine," she began, holding the feather as if it might break with the slightest touch, "thank-you. This means… a great deal to me."
"I, ah… of course. It… I, ah… Maria, it's… I, um… I'm sorry I didn't…" the redhead began, looking down at her hands as she fumbled over her words. How many things did she have to be sorry for? It seemed so many, but it wasn't enough. She wasn't sure it ever could be. Still, she had to try. "I'm sorry…"
"It is alright, my dear," the woman continued, reaching over to touch her shoulder gently. Catherine looked up, eyes wide. Maria smiled gently at her. "It is good to see you—to see how you have grown."
The redhead's cheeks grew warmer, and she reached up to grasp the older woman's hand, "I… I've… I've tried to grow—a lot. I hope, um…"
"You have. Take heart, my dear, and rest well. There is yet work to be done."
Maria gave one final smile and then pulled her hand away so she could walk over to a box on her dresser. Catherine watched her go, but not for much longer. She turned away then, smiling enough to where her cheeks hurt a bit as she slipped out the door. She walked briskly to her room, barely able to contain herself as she got into her own room. Once she shut the final blockade, she let out a silly laugh.
Finally—finally she could feel relief. Her fear and guilt could flutter away. She was able to giggle and laugh and feel good for once about things and feel they could be better. With Maria, anyways. It just felt so damn good to finally know she didn't hate her and was proud—or at least seemed it—and hoped for more for her. It was the last thing she had expected, but always hoped for, and she had it. Sure, it made her silly, but it was worth it.
She did manage to temper some of her excitement, though—recalling the woman's words. Although she had the pride she had hoped for, there was still work to be done just as she said. There were still enemies to be killed, and it was only a shame they had to wait. Yet, at the same time, it gave her the moments she would need to revel in her newfound excitement, and so she didn't mind. No, she looked forward to it with great vigor, and so eagerly awaited the dawning of the new day.
-O-
May 28, 1478
Monteriggioni, Italy
"So... any news?" Catherine asked as she lounged against Mario's desk just as the older man came through the entryway. By his unhappy face, she knew the answer. She wasn't surprised, really. It had been incredibly "quiet" over in San Gimignano besides the remnants of the Pazzi forces that were starting to retreat. Sort of. They weren't entirely gone, and it was thought they would try to regroup and retake the city, so they had to be ready. Unfortunately, if the Pazzi massed in full they could reclaim the city—for a time. If Mario gathered his forces, too, then it could be managed, but right now they were playing it carefully. That, however, meant things were moving very slow. Little, if anything, was happening, and their enemy had proven to be smart: they were in hiding. Deep hiding.
"Nothing more than the usual," Mario sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. He paused, though, glancing around, and frowned. "Where is my… oh, for the love of—do not tell me that boy is at the Rose again!"
Catherine sighed, shrugging, "Probably. I don't rightly now. He went off after practice. Said Claudia wanted him to deliver something. Probably to the Rose."
"I will need to have a talk with him again… and perhaps Ghita to keep him away—he is taking away from his time for work," the older man grumbled, and, frankly, the redhead couldn't agree more.
In part, of course, because she was jealous. Ever since the brothel had been brought into full functionality and the courtesans arrived, he'd given them attention—a lot of it. More than the other ladies. She knew why, of course. They gave him bonuses or docked his own fee. Sure, she understood he had needs as a man, but she had hoped. That was her error, she supposed, but it still bothered her with how he acted. All his teasing and professing some "affection" for her or acting like he was sorry when she caught him or that it was some mistake—and for what? It was starting to piss her off at this point, and she didn't get why he seemed to flaunt it at her! Not to mention he had slacked some lately, even if there wasn't much to do. Running off after training or using it to do "errands" for his sister.
And the worst part?
She somehow managed to forgive him. Every. Damn. Time.
All he had to do was make some quick joke or smile that smile of his that made her melt a little on the inside and she was able to forget about how much of an ass he was being. He just made it so hard to stay mad, even if he did it over and over and over and over again and again and again. She should have hated him by now, but she liked him way too much—far more than she should, and she kept hoping. She was a hopeless hoper and it was ruining her, but she couldn't help it.
She just wished he would stop acting—if he was—and be straight with her. She couldn't stand this facetious whatever it was of his.
But she would, because she was that pitiful.
"Well, so… what's the plan then? Just… keep here until the Pazzi show again?" she asked after a moment, leaning back on her arms as she tilted her foot back and forth.
Mario sighed with a nod, "Unfortunately. Not much else to be done, and I would rather you train here while my men scout. That… and there is other, more important work you might do."
"More important than getting rid of all the Pazzi and their helpers?" she mused, brow raised. The older man chuckled as he pulled out a letter from his pouch. She recognized the seal—it was that of Lorenzo's. Another mission from him.
"So, he finally got something for us, huh? What did it say?" she asked, noticing the seal had already been broken. Ezio had expressed some unhappiness about having what he considered business between he and Lorenzo read by his Uncle without permission, but Mario did it only to ensure it was not beyond his abilities. Who better to judge that then their teacher? Or at least provide council. Ultimately, it was up to either her or Ezio to go on the mission or not. Mario was giving it to her, though, which meant he thought it within their capabilities.
He replied as she read, "It mentions a man in the Signoria—back in Firenze. He was working with the Pazzi to overthrow the Medici. Lorenzo asks you take him out, but quietly."
"As they usually go… near the Church of San Lorenzo, eh? But not for long… Says we have days at most before he leaves the city or at least out of our reach," the redhead hummed, folding the letter and putting into a pocket in her vest.
"Then you must head out quickly. If you leave now, it will be only a little pass midnight, but perhaps tomorrow morning should be better?" he inquired, watching her curiously.
She smiled for a moment, "We'll need to prepare first—we can decide based on that. I need to go pull Ezio away, and if he's where I think he is… it might take him a bit to get dressed."
"Indeed… then go see about him. I will prepare your gear and horses. They will be ready at your word."
"Jeez, sounds weird hearing that—makes it sound like I'm in charge. Grooming me to take your spot, hmm?" she smirked playfully.
Mario laughed, "While I do not doubt you would make a fine commander one day… I am afraid that is not a spot for you. And I do not mean that you are unworthy when I say that, only…"
"The men would never go for a woman as a commander, I know. Me being one of them—kind of—and helping Ezio is one thing, but commanding them like you do? I may be from the future where women leaders and found all over, and there have been some in the past, but I know it wasn't so much here. So don't worry. Your confidence is enough," she replied, grasping his shoulder warmly.
"Know you do good work with Ezio—as an Assassin. You are helping a great many people."
She grinned, "Don't worry—I know. Just wish it wasn't all so complicated. What with the Pazzi and their politics and then having the law technically after us, but we work for the Medici… and then… well, that gosh darned Piece of Eden and all…"
"Indeed," Mario mused, glancing down where she kept the Clock hidden. He looked back up at her. "Have you… learned more from it? Understood your… 'power' more?"
Catherine groaned, shoulders slumping, "No! It's so frustrating. I've tried to figure out how it activates, but there's nothing. I only know what the 'god' said or whatever, but I know it kept me from being killed… but kept me from saving someone, too. I don't control it at all."
"Do you think you can?"
"…I don't know," she sighed, rubbing the back of her neck. "I want to, though—I don't want to be forced to do anything by it. I know some things I can't apparently stop, but… being able to use it to avoid having to use it to kill people like that… I'd want to find the way. I can't say it enough that no one should have this power. I wish I could show you what I could do so you could understand…"
"I understand it pains you, and that is reason enough. We will find a way to work with it—to give you the advantage you need. We will make time."
"Mario, come on; you have other things to worry. I'll figure it on my own… somehow."
The older man grasped her shoulder this time, "Catherine, it is true I have a great many things I must deal with, but this too—this Piece of Eden—is also one of these things… especially when it is connected to you and my nephew. This is just as important, so I will make time."
"Mario…"
He lifted his hand to quiet her, "I have said I will do it, and I will. When you return from your errand from Lorenzo, I will have something. With any luck it might help you decipher the intent of this Clock of yours."
"Jeez, Mario… how is it you're so good, huh?" Catherine laughed after a moment, shaking her head. The older man laughed with her, and after another short pause, she suddenly embraced him. He blinked in surprise, but returned it, and then she stepped back, grinning. "Thanks. I'll try and get Ezio going tonight so we can start right away. God, I hope it works."
"As do I… now go on. As I said, I will have the horses and your things ready. You have work to do."
"Indeed I—well, we do. Thank-you, Mario. We'll send word of our success and be back as soon as we can," Catherine smirked back, and then she headed off.
-O-
June 1, 1478
Monteriggioni, Italy
"Wait—where are you off to?"
Catherine paused at the Villa entrance to look back at Ezio, whom waited by the stairs with a raised brow. Above on the banister Claudia also paused, looking on curiously. She wasn't surprised, really. For one, they had finished supper maybe an hour ago and spent the rest talking about projects to come—like the winery, which was soon to be put in order—so of course they would be around to watch her go. She supposed she should have waited until they were gone, but she was running a bit late. Secondly, it was a little unusual to be heading out at the moment. Normally they all settled and did things before bed, but she had plans tonight—specifically with Mario. Though she disliked it, the only time the Commander had found for them to begin working on her Clock was when others would not be around; that is, when the sun had gone down and everyone was heading for bed.
Thus, she had started to depart to meet Mario at the training grounds when Ezio and Claudia caught her in the act.
Not that she would tell them why she was meeting. No, she couldn't stomach telling either of them—especially not Claudia, who still knew nothing of the truth. Another guilt she would need a long, long time to come to terms with and get over. One day she would tell the young woman, but not now. Hell, she knew she could never tell either of them about what the Clock could do, which made it worse, but she would endure. This was too much to share with them.
"I was going to see Mario about my gear and sword. There was no time during training and then we got caught up with our talk. I'll see you tomorrow to kick your butt," she lied, grinning smugly. It was enough to fool him; he rolled his eyes as he shook his head and bid her good luck—Mario hated tardiness. She gave a goodnight in reply and headed out into the night.
She found Mario leaning against the training ring, two lamps on the ring's edge, though he stood up straight and took up the lights when she arrived. They both only nodded to each other before he gave her one and began to walk around the ring to the stairs. She raised a brow, but followed anyways. When asked where they were going, he just mentioned "away from eyes", and so she let it be. It was a good idea; if they did anything in the city, someone was bound to see, and she wanted this kept secret. She owed him her thanks, but she knew the best way to show it was figuring out the damned Piece of Eden.
She had to raise a brow, though, as Mario took them out to the city and to the right, going out far into the shadows. She followed dutifully, though; she trusted him, and he was doing this for her. To question him would be rude. However, she was thankful it didn't take long for him to bring her to a small path through the hillside, which came out to an opened area with a decent dirt patch. It was to there he motioned her to one side and he the other, both setting their lamps down at their feet.
"Here. It is secluded well enough. We might see what can be done. Now… take it out, and tell me how it worked before," he spoke, gesturing at her pocket. She nodded and pulled it out. She could just make out its features in the dim light, but she knew every feel and edge of it after her endless groping and hoping it would work for years. She sighed deeply as she thought on it, recalling every time it had worked so far.
She bit her lip slightly, "The first… was when Ezio almost died. Then again when Lorenzo's brother was going to, but that was different. With Ezio it stopped time and I was… elsewhere—I was able to cut the lights. The other time it just made me not move. But then… when I was fighting the guards—any time that night that I was in trouble… that I was… that I was sure I would die… it activated. It saved me, I think. Gave me the chance to avoid death—so I could do what I'm 'supposed' to do."
The older man hummed as he rubbed his chin, "So it will only work when it needs you to do as it has been commanded… and also to protect you. Because it needs you. It will keep you from death, but not injury."
"Seems so. I don't always remember the exact moment when it does it, but I've always been panicking or I feel like there's no way out."
"Mmm… perhaps we should recreate those moments?" he inquired, but she could only shrug.
"Maybe… so, I guess you, uh, have to try and 'kill me'?" she grimaced slightly and Mario frowned some.
"So it seems… just know we cannot do this long if we do not want to seem suspicious. At most an hour."
She nodded, "That's fine. With any luck you can get this to activate soon enough. It shouldn't take more than this… right?"
"It should not, but we must always be ready—this thing has great power. Great knowledge. It may not be so easy to control it—if it can be controlled."
"I… right," she replied, lips creased firmly together. She put the Clock into her pocket and drew her blade, getting into stance. "Let's not waste time then."
Mario drew his blade, "Indeed. Let us learn of this thing—and help you master it."
Catherine only nodded, and they began.
-O-
June 10, 1478
Monteriggioni, Italy
Catherine cursed as she swung her blade up, catching Mario's, which bore down on her. Her arms ached, but as the seconds passed nothing happened. No wildly racing heart. No growing warmth in her pouch. No time stopping. No lights. Nothing. They had worked for ten nights now, hoping it might work, and that she just needed time, but their efforts were in vain it seemed.
Mario deflected her blade and held his to her throat while she lifted her hands in surrender. He waited a few good seconds before pulling away and helping her up. She sighed as she brushed herself off and reclaimed her blade. She looked to her commander once done, and after shrugging, let her shoulders slump.
"Nothing."
Mario hummed, "What could it be? We have been at this long enough—surely it should have worked by now…?"
"I dunno… I guess… well, I know I'm not scared like I was before. I don't get as worried."
"Because you know I will not kill you," he hummed, rubbing his chin.
She nodded, "Yeah… I guess… and then… well, truth be told… I was also worried because well… if I died… well, yeah. A lot of the what ifs—because I thought I would die. Here I know I won't."
"Indeed… perhaps we should change that," the older man rumbled, to which the redheaded woman raised a brow. He lifted his blade. "I admit I have been holding back because I did not wish to harm you, but now… now we must be serious. This is a match to the death, and I will not hold back. If you do not fight at your full strength, you will be cut down."
"Uh… wait, what? Oh, wait, okay, no I get it. Alright… I just hope that works. I always had a bad habit of never treating practice like the real thing, although I always did the real thing better than practice," the redhead chuckled some, although she frowned when she realized Mario's expression did not change. She kept her blade ready, trying to figure him out. Was he serious? But he couldn't be. He would never try to kill her. Yet, the way he held himself; the way his gaze was dark and fierce—it made her worry. It made her fear.
She swallowed uneasily, "Mario?"
She barely had time to react as the older man was suddenly on her, slashing at her side. She somehow blocked it, wincing at the strength of it, but then side-stepped before moving backwards. Mario came at her still, slashing this way and that. Every time she just barely managed to block, and it was getting harder and harder. Her feet constantly moved, but felt like they were crisscrossing all over, so she was bound to trip soon enough. She hadn't realized Mario was so skilled—he had been beatable in the ring! Ezio had beaten him, or had the older man just been holding back? It certainly seemed like it, and she struggled more as he kept pushing her this way and that, smacking her with the back of his hand, and then striking right after. He was relentless, and ultimately she fell. He was on her at once, bearing down. He raised his arm and sliced in an arc, aiming straight for her.
Time slowed, and by his face she knew he meant it. He had from the start, and her heart raced this time. By God it raced, and she feared death. She feared her failure would finally kill her, and she only had the slightest flicker of doubt with her commander; to know he could kill her. That he would. It made it all the worse, and she begged silently to be saved.
Her pocket grew warm, and just as the blade neared her face it stopped. Everything stopped. The light briefly flared, and suddenly it was made of light. She gasped, sucking in much needed air, and scrambled away. She reached into her pocket and pulled out the scalding hot item. She stared, wide-eyed at her commander, and then to the Clock. She had done it. They'd done it. It had activated. She had the Clock's power at her disposal. Not that she would use it here, but to know it had worked—that now she knew why it worked; it was uplifting.
'How to stop it, though?' she mused, looking down at it. She tried willing it. She tried to tell it she was fine and it should stop, but that didn't work, so instead she thought on why she thought it worked. It did so when she thought she would die, but she was safe now. Yet it didn't stop automatically. So what else could there be? A thought came to mind as she realized her heart was still racing; much more-so than just from exhaustion or effort. The thought formed a notion and an idea, and she began to breathe in deeply, willing her heart to calm down. It never really did do as she commanded, but the breathing worked. She felt her body relax and heart slow down, and then—a quick flash.
The world was back to normal.
Mario's swing finished, blade smacking the ground where her body had once been, and he stumbled slightly from the shock of it. He spun around to find her, eyes wide. She grinned in response, and a smile emerged.
"You did it."
"We did… but, yeah. It activated. I think… and maybe it's crazy, but… I think it's based on my heart beat—on like our fast it is. If it's in panic mode, it activates to save me, but when I calm down it stops. I think. Pretty sure, anyways," she explained, although it was really a guess. She thought it was a good one, though.
"Mmm… that makes some sense. Do you think you could do it again?"
She rubbed the back of her neck, "If I was about to die… yeah? Not sure I can make myself get panicked. Maybe. I've gotten an adrenaline rush from remembering my sports once, so… maybe? I dunno. I'd have to try on my own."
"We can try again this way tomorrow," Mario mused as he came over. He met her gaze before clasping her shoulder. "I am sorry for forcing you through that, little one. I did not mean to cause you fear or pain, but I thought it the only way."
She smiled a bit, "I know. I mean… yeah, it was a little, uh… well, I admit I got worried, but I know you. You wouldn't hurt me—not really."
"Still, I owe you an apology, and I fear I may have to do so again."
"I understand. I think that was enough for one night, though," she chuckled, and her commander did the same. He clapped her shoulder before grabbing his lantern and sheathing his blade.
"I think so, too. We have made good progress, though. Tomorrow, we shall make more."
Catherine grinned as she got her things and followed him, "Damn right we will. Now come on old man—let's get some much needed rest."
"Call me that again and you will not rest for a month," Mario snorted, giving her a quick glare, but she just laughed. Not long after, so, too, did he.
-O-
June 24, 1478
Florence, Italy
Ezio hissed as Catherine dabbed at his wound with some alcohol, and she gave a sympathetic smile in return as she used the water-soaked towel next. The cut thankfully did not require a doctor, but it was enough that it bled. It was in an awkward spot, too—right on his shoulder blade where it was too hard to reach. Thus, she was needed to clean it, and the job required some patience and dirty jokes and innuendoes from the patient. She tolerated them with a grin, and took some satisfaction by stopping him mid-joke by dabbing the wound so it hurt just right. Unfortunately, it wasn't his only wound, but it was certainly the worst. The others were more minor scratches and a hefty bruise on his side.
"You shouldn't have gotten cocky, you know," she hummed, inspecting her work. Seeing it was mostly done bleeding, she placed a piece of cotton cloth to help soak up any leaks. "Also, gunna wrap it, so will need your help. Hand me the bandages."
Ezio grunted as he did so, using his opposite arm to hand them back, "I wasn't being cocky! I just… was careless."
"You were cocky," she repeated, setting the start of the wrap on the cotton fabric and going around his back. He didn't need prompting as he pulled it across his chest, and she repeated the process, with a few wraps over his shoulder and under his arm.
"Fine, fine—I was cocky," he huffed, no doubt with a severe pout on his face. He had been over confident and careless, though; thus the wound. They had been sent to take care of a continent of guards. Normally, that would be easy, but these all happened to be Brutes—the largest there were. No easy thing to beat, and their only real weakness was their slowness and the tiny gaps between their armor that their hidden blades could get through. They had to take care of them, though—the guards had planned to attack Lorenzo's home, so they had to do it or their ally could face a terrible fate. For it, they called in help from Mario's mercenaries and even employed smoke bombs, but it was a hard battle, and she was only so lucky to come away with bruises, scrapes, and one small cut on her forearm that was taken care of.
"Next time just watch out behind you. You're lucky I was close by," she hummed, recalling the moment. Again, the Clock had activated—just before the Brute had tried to use his axe on Ezio's back. She used her power to slash at his light. It didn't last long enough to do all she wanted, but the wound her companion had was made to be how it was now instead of worse. She liked to think it was because she had controlled the Clock more-so this time. Maybe. She wanted to think it, anyways, but she wasn't sure even after all the work she and Mario were doing, and the progress they had made—however small.
"I know, I know. You don't have to remind me," he huffed, causing Catherine to frown a little as she stitched the bindings together.
"There. You're good," she spoke and waited as he turned around. She couldn't help staring for a moment or two before looking up at his face. He had noticed, of course, and smirked. She immediately flushed, grasped his under shirt, and shoved it into his chest. "Get dressed. Leo should be back soon, anyways, and he wanted to make sure we had a good supper."
"A special dinner?" the young man mused, brow raised. He smiled knowingly. "I wonder why."
"Well, for one, he hasn't seen us for a while, so it's special," she hummed right back, arms folded over her chest. She grinned back, though. "But… the other is because, and do try and act surprised here, buuut… it's because it's your birthday."
"How ever did you remember?" he snickered, pulling on his shirt and buttoning it up.
Catherine chuckled, "I have no idea. Although Claudia's little letter she sent with me about remembering it helped. Oh, and ah… sorry we had a mission on your birthday. I didn't think we'd get this new message right before we left after that one conspirator we killed. Sorry you got hurt on your birthday, too. And, y'know, we're not home… although Claudia said we'd have a huge feast once we were back and Mario has something for you, I bet, and probably uh… Ghita, uh, too, and all. But yeah… Sorry things kinda went… yeah."
Ezio sighed softly as he leaned back, careful to mind his wound. He glanced to his other gear, but left it off as he looked to her. She figured some of his ire was because of that. He had hoped to return home before his birthday since the previous mission had only taken a day or two, but then another pigeon had come up, and it had taken longer than they thought to find the guards and then wait for them to show.
He waved his hand, "It's fine. I admit, I'm a bit upset, but… it's not all bad. I have you here to celebrate it with. And Leonardo, too. That's not so bad."
"No, I guess it's not," she replied softly, cheeks flushing some. She shifted in her seat before pausing, thinking as she bit her lip. She glanced over to where her pack was. "Um… well… it's uh… it's a little early… but… I think it's time to give you your present. I wanted to wait until maybe when we got back buuut…"
"Present? A kiss?" he winked playfully, and she gave him a pointed look. He snickered some. "Well, a man can dream. You can always give it as an extra one?"
"I don't know where your lips or face have been, so no thanks. Now calm down and wait. I think… well, I hope you like it," she smiled sheepishly as she made her way to the pack. From it she pulled a small, wrapped item; the shape somewhat a give-away despite the thick cloth. She kept it behind her back as she returned to her seat and then waited a moment, testing him, and once he gave her an expectant look she revealed it to him. His brow raised as he took it and gingerly removed the wrap. The other brow lifted to meet the other as the shimmer of metal appeared, and soon the duller shade of a hilt. It wasn't anything too big or fancy, but it was a decent-sized dagger with special engraving put into it. The edge was lined barely, and at the hilt was an "A" with flamboyant designs around it over the very same shield that adorned the walls of Monteriggioni. A way to make it officially his and maybe something special.
"It's uh… well, it's just a dagger—I couldn't get a proper sword with all the fancy stuff in time, but I thought a dagger would do, and, um… so it has the 'A' for Auditore, of course, and then the family crest. Oh, and the grip is leather I had them stain red with some gold mixed in to match everything. Anyways, ah… it… well, I hope you like it. I wasn't really sure what to get you to be honest, but I thought… well, I thought this would be nice," Catherine rambled, fingers twiddling together a bit nervously. She even looked away while Ezio's attention remained on the blade, but she looked down at her hands when she felt warmth on them—his hands. They squeezed hers and she looked up to find him smiling and there was this softness in his eyes. It made her cheeks warms and heart race a bit.
"Catherine, I love it. Thank-you. I'll carry it on me and cherish it always," he told her softly before retracting his hand to run his fingers along the engraving and the edge.
She chuckled, "So—better than a kiss, right?"
"Well… maybe this once. But I'm still up for it," he winked, to which she laughed.
"Sorry, but I think this will have to do. So… well, I'm glad you love it. I had hoped you would," she smiled a bit stupidly now.
"I would love anything you gave me," Ezio smiled right back, and her cheeks grew yet a little warmer.
"Jeez, don't say embarrassing stuff like that, you dork," she huffed, although her lips were still curved upward even as she looked to the side.
"But I like saying them—you get like this. It's… endearing," he smirked, leaning closer. She paused, giving him a look, and folded her arms as she leaned forward.
"Oh, I see. Trying to worm your way into a kiss. Good luck, lover boy," she snorted, just daring him.
He inched a little closer, "Oh, come now. I am just a man speaking the truth. You are quite pleasant when you get flustered. It's fun."
"And you are full of hot air, which isn't nearly as enjoyable," she hummed, letting her arms brace on her knees. Vaguely, she noted their faces weren't far apart, and for the briefest moment she wondered what it would be like to kiss him. It was fleeting, though—and silly—so it was gone, though the remnants lingered.
"Know what is, though?" he smirked.
"What?" she relented, brow raised as she gave him a look.
He suddenly left a peck on her cheek and laughed as he pulled back, "A kiss."
"Wha—oh, you turd!" she snapped, rubbing at her cheek, and even grabbed the wrap of her present to throw at him. He leaped up and away, though, out of reach, and she huffed, arms folding over her chest. "Gunna whoop you later."
"No, I don't think you will," he grinned, winking. "You enjoyed that—I can see you trying not to smile. Your blush doesn't hide it well."
"You won't be able to hide the new bruise to your face well if you don't hush," she ground back, but he was right. She hadn't hated it—no, she'd enjoyed it, and it made her heart flutter, and she only hated not being sure he meant it. She just wished he could be serious about how he felt—if he did at all.
"Oh, Catherine," Ezio sighed dramatically as he returned to his seat, lounging playfully. "Any other man might find you so off-putting with those threats of yours… but I know you better. You wouldn't ruin this pretty face."
She snorted, looking at him up and down, and then smirked, "You know what? You're right. I wouldn't want to ruin your only asset."
He scowled, "Hey! That's not fair… and why are you channeling Federico?"
"Wait—what? Oh, hey no… did he—did he pull that on you, too?!" she laughed loudly, and the young man's huffiness confirmed it. "Maybe I am. Hey, just what I need to put you in your place."
"Hardly fair."
She rolled her eyes, "Oh my God, the big baby is showing his face. If it wasn't your birthday, I might have to spank you."
"I didn't realize how much of the dominating type you were, kitty-'Cat! How will I ever restrain myself around you?" he purred, brow waggling.
"When I smack you upside the head that's how," she bit back, and he only laughed in return. In the end, she laughed, too, and it just felt good to do that—to act so silly. She didn't know why, but it did, and she sat there, staring at him. Her chest swelled to see him happy and to just be around him. She only wished she didn't have restrain herself so much. She wished she could be confident enough to just say something of how she felt, but she was too much a coward, and even when she did remember it was generally a bad time. Now was perfect, though, wasn't it? Yet, she was still a coward, and so only chuckled as she leaned back, smiling.
"Happy birthday, Ezio."
-O-
July 3, 1478
Monteriggioni, Italy
Catherine half-sighed, half-groaned as she leaned back in the chair in Mario's room, looking down solemnly at the Clock resting on the surface before her. Scattered around were papers; some messages from Lorenzo, others reports, and some maps. It was all a big jumble, but not nearly so jumbled as her efforts to make the damned Piece of Eden work. Her work with Mario had brought forth some progress, or at least told her how it might work, and after multiple moments of it activating—even if only briefly because she'd slowly begun to master calming her heartbeat—she had begun to think her hypotheses was right. Unfortunately, trying to get that hypotheses to work was much harder.
Needless to say, it wasn't easy to make one panic just with one's thoughts and trick the body, thus tricking the Clock. She had tried enough times to know, and although she could get a slight rush of adrenaline when she thought of those near-death moments, it still wasn't enough. It would react, but she needed to do more than that—she needed to be able to control it. She didn't care what the God said, she would have a say in things. She wouldn't be enslaved to it and use it as only it wanted if she felt it wasn't right—not unless she was sure it had to be. If she could spare or save lives, though, she would. She had to. It was the only way she could think to make up for all the death she'd done by it; all the times she'd played God, in a way.
For now, though, she was stuck, and it was awful.
"No luck, I take it?" a familiar voice called out, and Catherine looked up to find Mario there, a plate of food in hand. Her stomach growled at once, and she was all too happy to scarf down some of the roast Annetta had made. It made some of her disappointment leave, but not all as she nodded to the Commander and glared at the thing.
"I can get excited, but it won't work. Well, maybe like once or twice, but otherwise nothing. I can't pretend I'm dying, I guess," she huffed, flipping it over as if that were some fitting punishment.
Mario clasped her shoulder, "Do not worry, little one; you will figure out its secrets. We already discovered the one, and you mentioned you think you know exactly what it is you do in that… place?"
"Kinda?" Catherine hummed before taking another bite. "It's… kind of beyond you and this time, but… it's like I can… alter reality, I think is the best way to put it. There's limits, but I can alter it, though. I think. It's all I can really find that works, anyways. I mean, does that make sense?"
"Admittedly, no. But such power is not easily understood, and certainly it is beyond me, but if this will help you in your endeavor and make you stronger, then who am I to question it? I would only urge caution, as always, and to not let it cause you grief."
"Ugh, if only. I wish it wouldn't, but just having it bring me grief. I shouldn't have it at all," she grumbled, huffing some.
Mario chuckled, "Still, you know what I meant… although, I take it this means you are finished for the day?"
"Probably. It's late if Annetta had to make you make sure I eat. She knows I avoid her if I'm too late now," the redhead mused, glancing to the doorways—just in case. The maid could be quite the mother hen, and it was never fun for the chicks. "So… yeah. I'm done for the day. Sooo… anything on your end? Any news?"
"Yes, but not exactly good," the older man replied, folding his arms. Catherine frowned with concern as he went on, "The Pazzi have amassed their forces and are attempting to reclaim the area. They have more than I thought, and the Papacy is on their side, giving them even more strength than we realized. Of course no one knows the Pope has sanctioned this, but the Thieves' scouts and the Courtesans have heard rumors circling and found letters like the ones here."
Catherine paused to look at the paper he pointed to, finally noting it mentioned the Pazzi. Mostly Ezio had gone over these and given her updates, and she left it at that since he didn't leave her out. However, for right now she picked them up and read.
"This is more than we have at San Gimignano, isn't it?" she asked, chewing her lip.
He nodded, "Yes. I will have to pull my men back here to begin amassing our own forces properly. I hoped Lorenzo might even be able to send his own troops, but politics may hold him back. Ezio plans to write to him soon, though."
"If these numbers are right, then, yeah, we'll need them. The men aren't necessarily more skilled or stronger, but these are some decent numbers. We'll lose the city there then—at least until we can get rid of the figure heads, right?"
"Indeed. If we can cut off the snakes' heads, then even the Pope will falter and think twice—especially if there is backlash. I expect there will be, too. The Pazzi are scared despite their numbers, and if we begin to pick them off one by one they were get careless and more desperate. The people will suffer, however, and though I dislike the thought, it means they will be hated, which will make things easier."
"Yeah… speaking of… has there been any word on the men Lorenzo told us about?" Catherine asked, looking up from the papers.
Mario paused, rubbing his chin, "Well… there has been… potential sightings of the monk, Antonio Maffei. It seems he is panicked already. Some say his sanity is waning, but these are only rumors. However, the 'sightings' have been within Tuscany. It may be very well that he will show himself soon."
"Then we need to keep an eye out, and Ezio and I have to train more… probably need to set the Clock aside for a bit."
"Possibly, but for now do not think too much on it. These are just rumors. Once we have confirmation he has been spotted, we will begin. And once he shows himself… well, you will provide Italia a much needed service."
"No kidding… oh, did you mention it t Ezio yet?" Catherine asked as she ate a bit more of her food. When he shook his head she nodded. "Mmkay. I'll let him know then. Do you think you can keep a few mercenaries near the city? We might need the back-up."
"Of course. Most of them are under cover, anyways; Maffei will not even know their loyalties lie elsewhere. But, again, do not worry; I will handle all of that while you and Ezio focus on your training and what missions you have left from Lorenzo—is there not another?"
"Yeah, I think so? I'd have to go ask Ezio. He went to check the coop this evening and I came here and all. Writing letters and reports. Blegh."
"Now you know some of my agony," Mario winked, patting her shoulder. "Well, relax for tonight, little one. You have done well. Just be patient and our target will appear soon enough."
"Yeah, yeah. Now get on and get some sleep, too, old man," she snorted back, and grinned mischievously when he cuffed her. He gave her a quick, harmless glare before bidding goodnight, and leaving her be. Catherine sighed a few moments later and finished her meal, though didn't get the rest as he bade. Instead, she decided to focus on the reports and see what might be done for the trails to come.
-O-
August 15, 1478
Monteriggioni, Italy
"It's confirmed—Antonio has been spotted in San Gimignano," Ezio stated as he pointed to the report he'd put on Mario's desk. Around him was the owner of said desk, along with Catherine, Ghita, and the head Thief of their city and in San Gimignano, Giuseppe. Both worked to get them the report in their own way, and their council and help was always welcome.
The redhead put her hands on her hips, "Then we need to head out as soon as possible. You said he could leave at any time, right?"
"Maybe. He's a little… well, he ain't all there if my boys heard right," Giuseppe sniffed, rubbing his nose as he shifted on his feet. "Don't think he's leaving, though—not really. My boys managed to sneak a peek at some letter o' his telling him he had to stay and keep things ready for when the others come, so I think he'll be stayin'. Probably. I got eyes all around, though, so we'll know."
"Unfortunately, his occupation makes it hard for my ladies to entice, but some of the soldiers have been mentioning a long residence there… along with grievances with having to obey the 'crazy preacher' during said stay," Ghita added, and Mario, Ezio, and Catherine all nodded.
"Then it is reasonable to say he will remain there. If he attempts to leave I could rally a small band to waylay his forces, but it would be best to catch him off guard and not have him run," the Commander mused.
The thief hummed, "He does keep lots of guards 'round him, so it won't be easy. That report was a tricky one to grab. He's paranoid, for sure. Spends a lot of time in the towers we think—he don't come out much."
"Then we know where to look. As Catherine said, we should leave as soon as possible," Ezio spoke with a firm nod.
"You will need the opportune moment to strike if he has these guards. It may take a day or two before you can… but it would be best if you are there where you might strike quickly," Mario hummed, rubbing his chin. "Hold a moment. I have a map for you."
While the two assassins exchanged an odd look, the older man shuffled through his things to pull out a small parchment with a sketch of the area and a couple of red "X"'s on them. He handed it to Catherine first, being she was closest, and then she handed it to Ezio.
Mario gestured to it, "Those are safe houses for my men. We have allied city-folk there that will give shelter, although it may be in their barns rather their homes—just so you are aware. You will be kept safe here if you cannot be so in the city. It will allow you to remain close, even if the journey there is not too long."
"No, this is excellent, Uncle. I would rather us within blade's reach rather than have to hope he is still there hours later. This will be most useful," the young man smiled and grasped his uncle's arm warmly.
"I am always glad to help, Nephew."
"We, of course, will be happy to offer our services. The brothel there will hide you, should need be," Ghita stated, smiling confidently.
Giuseppe rubbed his nose again, "And we can lure some guards here and there. Provide look out and all. We ain't much for fighting, so don't expect that, but we'll do what we can—you can count on it."
"Then it's settled. We set out at first light tomorrow," Ezio told them, looking to Catherine a she did so.
"Tomorrow it is. With any luck, tomorrow Antonio will meet his end, too," she replied, and that was that.
A target was on the preacher's head, and soon they would have it.
36 – End
TMWolf: Whelp, the fun times are coming to an end. Sort of. There's still room for fun here and there, but the summer of nothing is done and it's time to get to work! A good bit has happened, though-namely, we have an idea of how the Clock maybe works. Mario and Catherine work on it in secret, so hopefully that will bear some fruit! In the meantime, Ezio is a little rambunctious without much to do-at first. Don't worry, he'll get his head back into the game for an assassination, although he has his ups and downs. What can I say? He's a growing young man-right in his prime at 19! He's still going to be a little playful, and, again, Cat is kind of an enabler because she'll make up for his slack, and he trusts her enough to feel relaxed around her :)
Anyways... so the Lorenzo missions have been going on during the time skip-you know all the ones in game you can do in less than an hour? Yeah, I figure these went on for the whole summer instead, so there we go xD Among other random ones and stuff, so these two have been busy. Also, stuff is happening in Monteriggioni, and their allies are growing. Figure I could have fun with establishing them and how they kind of worked :) then the Pazzi are back on the move taking back San Gimignano and now it's time to play hot-potato with safe houses!
Next chapter will be a fun action one yet again, so get ready!