TMWolf: Lol think life is working against me. Had this almost done with AN stuff and I accidentally closed the browser. WHOOPS.

But hey! Update time guys! Sorry I've been gone so long. I really should have updated sooner, but things have been a little hectic. Stressful, you could say, and the muse had been... lackluster. I just didn't feel like writing, but I managed to get the latest chapter done. No guarantees or any definitive time for next update, however. I had mid terms coming up, and I also have both research work and papers for my classes to write, so I don't know how things will go. I'll do my best to update when I can, though. Rest assured, I WILL finish this beast. I'm too invested and not a quitter, so I'm gunna finish it.

For now, though, chapter 54... PLEASE NOTE: ACT III IS FOUR YEARS LATER. ACT II WAS FOUR YEARS AGO. I'm pretty much not going to be doing montage chapters anymore, so lots of time skipping going on now xD

As usual, how I write the canon is based upon my interpretation of it.

For reviews: thank-you guys sooooooooooooooooooo much for your kind words and concerns! I've had a good break, and hopefully I won't need as much time between the next update. I always love hearing what you have to say, be it critique, comment, question, or whatever! So please feel free to leave a review, and I'll be happy to answer :)

C0N1F1ENT: I'm so glad you're loving the story! And yep! I've had a decent break haha

I am a duck: Technically this is way after the chapter you reviews, but I'm sure you'll see it eventually, ha ha. Anyways: Lord of the Rings, yes! An amazing story and soundtrack :p So glad you're loving it, and thank-you so much for your review! Your words mean a lot! xD

jojobamemes4: Hehehe I try my best to make them that way xD And don't worry-there will be plenty of bonding with their nephew! In fact, they spoil him-more than mama-bear would like ;) And I won't abandon you guys! Promise! Thanks so much for the luck-I need it, ha ha xD

Kise-cchi: I'm doing fine, thanks! :) Sorry but not sorry about working your heart? ID And, yes, poo on fanfic for cutting porno time, although I'd probably get silly with it, hehe. So glad you liked it-especially Ghita. That was a part I thoroughly enjoyed writing :) And good lord, little mini Catzio babies xD Ezio would have to keep his children from constantly flirting (you know they would take after dad). And oh, please. I'm barely over Mexican level of spicy xD But thank-you, he he he. As for younger Catzio reactions... Catherine totally embarrassed and in denial but totally turned on, and Ezio giving a thumbs-up, encouraging it, and teasing Catherine relentlessly xD Things definitely would have happened faster if they saw into the future, ha ha. and OMG XD NOT THAT KIND OF MARK. I MEAN, EZIO WOULD, BUT YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN LOLOLO

Laurel: Haha yay! Glad you love it! xD And, yep! Claudia had her baby... and, well, Ezio actually *was* kinda serious about proposing... but he'll respect his lady's wishes ;) As for Ottavio's reaction... mostly a f*ckin' finally and holding out his hand for his coins xD

Right, so that's it for those... for the song, it's by Matchbox 20: How Far We've Come. Fit just fine title-wise.

Anyways, again: FOUR YEAR TIME SKIP! Get ready guys, and time to take down the Templars!


Act III

Guardian


54 How Far We've Come


August 15, 1485

Monteriggioni, Italy

Mom,

I guess it's been a while, huh? I'm not even sure when the last letter I wrote was, and I'm sorry about that. I meant to write sooner, really, I did, but things have been… well, both a lot and not a lot has happened the past four years. I guess I'll start with how my work has gone—as an Assassin. I told you about it all, I know.

I work with Ezio, Mario, and the various guilds throughout the country to stop the Templars. Before, with the Pazzi, it had all gone pretty quickly. We essentially destroyed the family in maybe two years. But our work against Rodrigo and the Barbarigo men—everything in Venice… it's taking a long time. Ezio and I both know it's for the best. We have to work slow this time. We have no power base like we did here, in Monteriggioni, and the Thieves we've been working with were very weak when we first got there. Yes, I know, 'Thieves' makes us sound so bad, but they're good people. They're fighting for what's right. They just want freedom for the people; to save them from the oppression of the Templars. We've been helping them all this time, and, finally, after four years, they've become strong. We've weakened the Templars a lot, too, although Emilio still has control. But I think that's going to change soon. Ezio and I both can feel it, and when we were in Venice about a month ago, Antonio seemed bolder and more eager. I don't think it will be long before we kill our target.

I know you worry about that kind of thing. Or, well, I think you would. I imagine you are while reading this, but… I'm stronger now. Even after I was hurt badly by the Clock. I, ah, guess I haven't told you about that, but the artifact did something to me—internally, I'm pretty sure. It made me weak and more prone to sickness for a few months, maybe even a year, but the more I trained and worked, I've gotten back to full health. Sometimes I have a spell here or there, but I'm definitely stronger for sure. Ezio's helped me with that, and with him I feel invincible sometimes. I know we're both ready, and that we'll make it out alive, so you don't need to worry. I mean, technically I will be dead by the time you read this, but not from trying to kill the Templars. So, y'know, don't worry. :)

Speaking of Ezio… okay, try not to have a heart attack, but… well, you know how you always wanted me to have a boyfriend? Or something like that? You know what I mean. Anyways… Whelp. It's been over four years now since Ezio and I became lovers. Boyfriend and Girlfriend, although the Renaissance would only call us lovers. It's… God, it's been amazing, Mom. I never knew what love like this was, but it's the best thing in the world. Was this what you had with Dad? I know you had that issue with the affair when I was really little, but before all that, and even after you'd gotten through it all—is this the kind of love you felt? To be with someone who wants only the best for you? Someone who loves you for all you are? Someone who would do anything to protect you? Die for you? Love you no matter what? Someone you trust with your life? Someone you couldn't imagine your life without? Because that's how I feel with him, and he's said much the same. I can see it, too. The way he looks at me and when we kiss or hold each other. It's amazing, Mom, and I wish you could meet him. You'd love him. He's charming and a smart ass and so handsome. He's grown a proper beard now, and it's amazing! I really do love him for all he is, though, and he loves me, too.

You must wonder why we're not married yet, huh, ha ha? Well, you'd not be the only one. Pretty sure we've been asked that question every day of our lives for the last year now—maybe even two years ago. Truth is… I guess we just don't feel we need to have a ceremony or need to make a big deal out of it? I don't know. I certainly don't feel like being married would change anything. I know I'd never love anyone else more than him or want anyone else, and he's the same for me. We don't want anyone else, and, well, frankly, I count his necklace as a ring. He gave me the one he had from a kid, and I wear it always. It's as much a ring as the real thing, and you know I've never been one for dresses, and I'd definitely be forced into one for the wedding. HE'D love it, of course, the turd (Yes, I do still love him, but he can be such a butthead. That's kind of why, I guess, though, haha). But, yeah. That bit combined with all our work has just… I mean, we talked about it after people starting asking, but nothing's really come of it. We end up working or traveling, and we just don't have time unless we're here in the city, but even then we have work to do. The city is always expanding, and all. But… maybe someday. I guess it would be kind of nice to have it "official", even if we don't need it.

Hmm… I have to wonder what else you'd ask… I guess…I guess it would be about kids, huh? We've definitely thought about it. We really considered it after Claudia had another kid—another little boy to match her first. They named him Federico, after their late elder brother. It's fitting, and he'll no doubt live up to his namesake. Ezio's wanted his own son ever since his first nephew was born, although I was hesitant at first. Once I spent more time with Claudia's kids, though, I came around to the idea, so we started to try. But…. I, ah… well… after two years… there's been… well, nothing. We've essentially come to think I'm barren. I wouldn't have thought it considering how fertile our family has been. I mean, hell, you have three siblings, Dad had two, and I have a ton of cousins and what not, but it seems like I can't have any. I'm not sure why. Or, I guess I have an idea why maybe why, but… without present day medicine, I'll never find out. I can only assume that I'm barren. And…It… it hurt. A lot. More than I thought it would, and I know it hit Ezio hard, too. At one point I thought maybe it might hurt US, but… we've stuck it through. He's told me it's alright and I believe him. He convinced me in his own way, although I know he still wants his own. I know I want my own, too, and I hate knowing I can't give us that. Maybe we'll adopt one day, I don't know… but… for now... for now we'll focus on work. Besides, the Auditore name is going to continue on. See, Claudia's kept her family name—Ottavio, her husband, took the Auditore name. He says it's because it sounds better than his own (we have a game of making up last names for him since he's refused to tell us; it's fun)—more noble, he says—but I know it's because he did it, in part, for Ezio and Mario, and Claudia, too. He wants to let our family name carry on, and we're all thankful for it. So the Auditore name and bloodline remains strong, even if Ezio can't help carry it on.

Heh… I didn't actually mean for this letter to get to so long, but four years is a lot to work through, isn't it? I need to work on writing more to you. Again, I'm sorry it's been so long, and I'm always sorry I left you… but, please know I'm happy here. I've found love and all it entails, and even if what I do is dangerous, know I'm happy. I wish I could say I'm coming home one day like I used to—back when I was sure the Clock would bring me home, but after all these years… I think it won't take me back. I think the god-thing I saw underestimated things or just said it to encourage me. And, well… don't hate me, but if given the choice… I'm going to stay. I have a life here with Ezio and everyone, and I don't want to lose it. I love him, and everyone else. I love you, too, Mom, so… please… don't be mad and don't be sad—I may not be with you anymore, but I'm happy. So, so, so, happy. I hope you'll be able to be happy for me, and keep going on with your life—to find your own happiness, too. I love you so much, Mom. I miss you, too.

Catherine paused in her scratching, eyes roving over the last few bits she had written. She pulled back some of her loose locks behind her ear as she set the quill down and leaned back in her chair. Her unbuttoned shirt—actually, it was Ezio's, but she'd stolen it when she'd gotten up—slipped some, but she left it be; content to lounge back lazily as she pondered. It hadn't taken her all that long to write everything, but her steam had died out some. Four years had gone by, and yet she could barely think of what all to write. One would think she could write an entire book, but she'd somehow summed up a life time in a few measly pages. It didn't seem right—didn't seem enough. She owed her mother more, but what was more was there to say? So much, yet so little had happened all those years.

The young woman chuckled softly, shaking her head some. Four years. It was so many. Even longer still since she'd come to this world. That had been at least eight, maybe nine years? She'd come at just nineteen years old, and now she was twenty eight, although she was happy to say she never felt it. It was so strange, in a way. Briefly, she wondered what her mom would say if she suddenly appeared before her as she was; nine years older, her body bearing new scars, her skin a shade darker, her hair shorter—or was it longer? She couldn't remember, but she knew she was a bit taller, and her body had become more feminine over the years. She was certainly more toned than when she'd come as well, and she had to laugh lightly at how her mother might react to see her in her Assassin gear, too.

A deep sigh from behind made her head turn, and even with her candle light dim and flickering slightly, she could make out the shape of the man she loved turning in the sheets. His arm reached, brushing across the empty space of the bed where she should have been. His fingers clenched and she could see his face scrunch in confusion. He opened his eyes slowly, blinking behind his loosened locks, and a soft grumble came forth. Catherine chuckled, and his head popped up, at which point he finally found her. He chuckled in kind and sat up, looking to the windows, and then back to her.

He yawned, rubbing the back of his neck, "Are you alright, my love? It's still dark out…"

"Don't worry—I'm fine. I just… couldn't sleep, so I decided to write," she smiled, looking back to her paper.

"Hmm…," he began, staring for a moment before slipping from the sheets. Despite years of being lovers, she couldn't help ogling his naked form; taking in all the muscles—even more firm than before—and, of course, the other goods. He noticed her wandering eyes, and a chuckle escaped him as he came over, leaned down to give her a quick kiss, braced his arm on the table, and looked over the paper. He raised a curious brow, "In English? Who is it for?"

"My Mom. I haven't written in years," she sighed softly as she reached up, lightly drawing her fingers along his abdomen. He made a soft, pleased hum. "I started thinking about her lately and how I hadn't done this… just had to get it out."

"What did you write? Your English is… different from what I'm used to," he replied, and by his slight frown she knew he was pouting.

She snickered, "Just a summary of things—how the fight's going, about the city, about… well, us."

"Oh?" he smirked before suddenly taking his braced arm and hooking it beneath her legs. She laughed as she wrapped her arm around his neck to make it easier for him to slip his arm around her back, lift her up, plop himself down in the chair, and then settle her into his lap. He didn't waste time entrapping her in his arms while his head nestled against hers, being sure to teasingly brush his beard against her cheek—something she loved.

"Mmhmm," she giggled, lounging back against him while she took up her quill again. She didn't write more, though; just tapped it lightly on the parchment. "Told her how you're impossible and such a pain in the ass."

His smirk widened, "Oh?"

"Uh-huh. The worst. You're always so cheeky and pushing buttons and being annoying and bothersome and causing trouble and acting like a little shit—an adorable little shit, but a little shit nonetheless," she went on, tilting her head back to grin up at his dubious raised brow expression.

"Hmm… frankly, my dear, I think you're underselling me. I'm far worse than 'adorable little shit'."

"True, but I didn't want her to worry and make sure she'd love you, too, whenever she read it."

"I see, I see… so was there anything good about me you said?"

"Good? Oh, no, no, no. There's absolutely nothing good about you," Catherine smirked, setting her quill down to reach up and stroke his beard. "You're just awful."

"Oh, yes, yes… Just the worst aren't I?" he purred, his hands starting to roam along her skin—just lightly touching so that she got shivers. Even after four years he could do that to her, and it excited her every single time. "I suppose I am… but, as I recall… you love every bit of it."

"And what makes you think that, hmm?" she purred as he brushed his beard along her cheek playfully.

"Well, there's the fact you're already getting wet for me—and I'm just barely touching you," he smirked, stealing a kiss as he groped her rear, which earned a small squeak from her. He laughed as he tugged her around, having her sit on his lap proper. "And, of course, there's the moaning, and screams of pleasure, and begging for more… oh, and then I've had you in my bed every night for the past four years."

"Well, I suppose that is pretty hard evidence to refute," Catherine hummed as she arched into his hand that drew underneath her shirt, right along her spine. She, like-wise, played around with his torso, and happily tangled her fingers into his hair. "Too bad you'll never convince me to tell my mother."

"Is that a challenge?" he purred, a devious twinkle in his eyes. Her heart raced, knowing exactly where this was going. Four years, and she still wasn't tired of it—not of his cheekiness; not of his kisses; not of his touch; not of how he eased her mind and pushed all her worries away; not of the way he made her feel like so much more than she was. No, she loved this man more than anything that could ever exist or would exist, and she would never tire of it.

"Isn't it always? Although," she replied, tilting her head back towards her parchment, "I probably should finish the letter."

"Later," Ezio growled quickly, but softly as he leaned forward and nipped her neck.

"Tsk. So needy… you know, it'll only be a week or so before we head back to Venezia. You won't be able to do this as you like."

He rumbled huskily, "Then I guess we're not leaving this room until then."

"I suppose I can humor you—for tonight. But know I will finish that letter tomorrow—without distractions," she grinned, stealing a kiss before wriggling his shirt off. He gave her an appreciative look over before groping her rear and standing up.

"I suppose I can show you mercy, but, as always… it will be near impossible—I can't help but want to devour you every time I see you," he chuckled as he made for the bed. They were both long ready before he even reached the sheets and laid her down, placing affectionate kisses and nips all along her skin.

"What can I say? I'm quite the temptation," she smirked right back, arching into his every touch. "Now stop teasing, you scoundrel."

"Ah, but I have a reputation with your mother to keep."

"You little shit," she laughed, and he laughed with her as he leaned forward and kissed her hard.

He smirked, "You love me for it."

She smirked right back, "Yes—yes, I do. Now shut up and fuck me."

"As you wish," he chuckled, and the teasing stopped.

-O-

August 22, 1485

Monteriggioni, Italy

"Everything you need is ready to go tomorrow," Claudia spoke as she shifted her youngest child, Federico, on her arm, the other, Giovanni, just four years old, clung to her dress. Both looked at the two Assassins with wide eyes. They knew them both well enough, but time away kept them from being as close as they could be. However, they only real reason they held back was for one being only a year, and the other fearing the wrath of his mother should he disobey her command to stay put and leave his Uncle and Aunt alone.

"Thank-you, Sister—you know we always appreciate the supplies. With any luck we won't have to stay long, but Antonio's letter seemed urgent," Ezio replied, adjusting his bracers as he did so. He was able to pause when Catherine's hands replaced his own, the young woman having learned his exact taste over the years. It was also easier if done with two hands, and gave him freedom to focus on the matriarch of the city.

"I managed to get a look at it myself—you think it's time?" she inquired, mindful of her young boys.

He nodded, "We think so. He mentioned the Guild is doing very well, and that our target seems a little on edge. Sort of. He's cocky, they said, but he's not been as bold—hasn't been as… oppressive, you could say."

"Well, that's a relief," the young woman mused as she again shifted her son, the little boy trying to grab at her hair piece. "Federico, no. Anyways… well, whenever it's done, do try and get someone who will be amiable to the merchants. We've gotten a few connections with them thanks to your work, but I'd like more—they're a good source of revenue, and it's an easier way to give you support, too. I don't like you two over there alone. Yes, yes, I know you have the Guild… but they're not mercenaries nor loyal to you like those here. I wish I could at least send Ottavio… but Mario needs him here. I need him here to help with these two."

"Claudia, don't worry—we're fine. The Guild is stronger than you think," Catherine chuckled as she finished with Ezio's gauntlet. She then turned so her back was to him, giving him access to her armor, which he adjusted here and there as she had done for him.

The young mother sighed deeply with exasperation and weariness, "Yes, yes… I know. Still, I worry about you both. We all do—especially Uncle Mario. He never shows it, but he worries. Why do you think he's gotten so gray already?"

"Isn't it because of those two running around, causing trouble?" Ezio snickered, tugging a strand tight and then patting her shoulder to signal he was done.

"No, they make my husband go gray—and me, you little devils," the young woman huffed, giving her two children looks. Her youngest was oblivious, but Giovanni giggled, burying his face into his mother's yellow gown. She sighed, shaking her head, but smiled at the two Assassins. "I love them, though. They all do… even if they're worse than you both."

"Why do you think we like them so much?" Catherine smirked before crouching down. The little four-year old took it as all the calling he needed to launch from his mother's side and latch onto the redhead. She laughed as he giggled, standing up and swinging him about. He was heavier every time they came back, but she was still able to host him up. She grinned at the disapproving look his mother gave them. "Giovanni, you'll be good for your Mama and Papa and Great Uncle, right? You'll behave? Mind your manners? Mind your Grandma, too?"

"Mmmhmm," he nodded furiously but then made a giggle-shriek when Ezio playfully blew into his ear. He slapped at his uncle before hiding himself into Catherine's neck. "Nooo, doon't!"

"Be good and we'll bring you something back—how's that sound?" he hummed, and the young boy perked right up, eyes bright and mouth agape.

"Yessss! Yesss, yesss!"

"Do not bring a sword back this time, though, or I will strangle the both of you!" Claudia snapped, eyes narrowed dangerously.

Catherine grinned, "Hey, that was his idea. I'll bring back a necklace or shoes or a shirt or something next time—how's that?"

"It will do. Now, Uncle Mario is waiting for you in the training grounds. He wanted to make sure you were good and ready for tomorrow to work on your more complex moves together."

"So he told us—when he came knocking loudly," Ezio mused, making a face.

"Oh, hush. The training is good for us," the redhead snickered while she put Giovanni down. She nudged him towards Claudia. "Go on, little one. Back to your mother."

"Yes, come Giovanni. It's time to begin your reading lessons for today, and then get your brother to his nap," she cooed, holding out her hand. Her little boy happily clung to it, though spared a moment to wave at his Uncle and Aunt, whom waved back. They watched the trio go, and once they were gone into the study, leaving the two Assassins, Catherine sighed. She watched the hall archway silently, a sad smile upon her face. It faltered when a familiar hand entwined its fingers with hers, and she looked back to find Ezio there. His other hand reached up to cup her cheek, which she leaned into. She knew the sadness in his eyes was a reflection of hers, and her chest throbbed as he pressed their foreheads together.

"Don't," he whispered softly.

"You know I can't help it. I hate not giving you that," she replied, closing her eyes. "Not giving you what you want."

"I want you. Only you. Child or no, I will always want you. And I will show it to you again, like I did before. I will do it again, and again, and again, and again—I will do it every time I must to show you I don't care if you can't bear me a son or even a daughter. I will love you always and need only you. Do you understand me, Catherine? I swore it the first night I made love to you and every night after, and I swear it again. I love you. Forever and always," he told her firmly, and every syllable made her heart swell with the love he professed for her. The fact she was barren would always come back, she knew, but so long as he was there to comfort her—to assure her it was alright, she knew it would be.

She managed a smile as she stole a small kiss, "I understand, Ezio."

"Good," he replied, and gave her a searing kiss. He smirked a moment later, "Although I wouldn't have mind taking you against the wall here."

She laughed, "Yeah, how about no. They already hear us every time we do it upstairs—they don't need to see us, too."

"Well, I wouldn't mind it," Ezio snickered, kissing her again. "So. Ready to go?"

"Yeah. And… sorry—about getting down again. I try not to…"

"I know, and I will always be ready to push those thoughts away. You're sure you're ready?"

The redhead nodded, "I'm good to train. You know I always am. Might need a massage after, though—Mario's going to try and ruin us."

"I think I can do that," he chuckled, brushing his thumb along her cheek and then lowered it all the way down to her hand to squeeze it gently. "Come on then."

"Time to kick your ass," she smirked with a wink. He paused, raised a brow, and then laughed.

"There's my kitty-'Cat."

Catherine gave him another sincere smile, and then together they walked out, ready to face whatever their Uncle had for them—and for whatever the Templars would have for them in Venezia.

-O-

September 7, 1485

Venezia, Italy

"I do not miss the smell," Catherine mused as she and Ezio strolled through the bright streets of the city on the water. Her lover hummed in agreement, nose scrunched slightly as the scent invaded his nostrils, and no amount of shaking his head would get it out. It had been a few months since they were here—a rather long time away compared to before. It had been for the best, as all their "vacations" had been; their work had made them infamous once more, and apparently Emilio had sent his goons about to do a thorough search for the Assassins, but it was for naught, of course. They weren't there to find, and the Thieves would never be caught so easily again—especially not when the district supported them more. Now it was only really the more noble folk who snubbed them, although some did secretly support them. However, with Emilio watching like a hawk, discretion was needed, but a mask was easy to wear.

Whatever the case, their hard work over the past four years had paid off, and every vacation was well earned. Venezia was, at least in one district, slowly becoming a better place. The people were less oppressed and did not fear selling their wares as much as they did. The tax, was, unfortunately still in place, but the guards were not as likely to come around and display their cruelty—or their swords. No; they were far more wary of doing such things for fear that a certain pair of Assassins might appear and slice their throats in retaliation. Personally, Catherine didn't like to be infamous with fear, but it was better than having no influence at all. At least a good chunk of the people knew they were allies, although some of the normal people did fear them, which she supposed was wise of them. The two of them had a power not many did. Or, rather, the redhead supposed Antonio had the power.

Such was the way of being the leader of a Guild—possibly the only one situated in the city. Not that he hadn't earned it or wasn't worthy of it. Catherine considered the man to be extremely wise and a fairly intelligent tactician. He knew the best times when to strike and how to do it. He understood the value of discreetness and patience when going after a target. He knew sometimes it was better to run than to fight, and how to use it against the enemy. He was a man that could gain the trust of his peers and, most importantly, their loyalty. There was hardly a thief in the district that didn't look up to him or wasn't willing to die for the goal—the purpose—he'd given them. He had the ability to instill such things in others, and it was not a skill many had. It didn't help he was an almost perfect mix of benevolent and malevolent; he knew went to give mercy and kindness; when to cut ties—and throats.

For that, Catherine often wasn't sure whether or not to trust the man. Or, at least, she trusted his drive and that he wanted to achieve his goals. He wanted to free the district, but what about after? He only said he wished for people to be free—to be allowed what he wasn't as a child, and she believed he was sincere in that. Yet, she knew power could easily corrupt. Mario had told them so countless times over the years, and the Templars were the physical manifestation of such a notion. It wasn't as if he hadn't given them a reason to not trust him, though. At least, nothing beyond a vague, gut feeling he was hiding something. She didn't think anything terrible or that would put them in harm's way, but she thought there was something in how he had this knowing look about him when he talked of the Templars and Assassins. She swore Mario would sometimes look the same, or even the other Guild leaders, too.

Regardless, the redhead at least took solace knowing Antonio wasn't a bad man, and that he wasn't the sort to be unable to be set straight if need be. Rosa, certainly, wouldn't let him become a dictator. If anything, she would beat her father-figure down with a fierce verbal lashing, and then probably insist she and Ezio pay her for doing their job. Such was the woman they'd come to learn as they worked with her, and Catherine was unbelievably happy to have her as an ally. In part, because she was incredibly talented and skills as both a free runner and fighter, but it was also nice having another woman running the streets like she did. There were maybe one or two others, but none so well known as Rosa.

"Lost in thought again, are we?" the familiar voice of her lover mused loudly—just as she felt a hand grope her rear. She squeaked despite the young man essentially doing the act almost daily, and flushed when he laughed.

"Don't do it in public," she huffed, glancing around. Thankfully only a few saw or even vaguely noticed.

He smirked under his hood, "Oh come now—I've done it in public plenty of times. Besides, how else am I to show claim in front of the other men?"

"Well, kissing works just as well, and the other times were back home—around friends and family. These are strangers."

"But we know that merchant—he sells us cloth. And that one sweet bread. That one repairs our weapons. And that one—," Ezio snickered, pointing out each and every stand until the redhead smacked his hand away.

"Oh, shut up, or you're sleeping downstairs tonight."

"Uh-huh," he purred, knowing full well that threat would never happen, and she knew it, too. No matter how cheeky or an ass he was, she couldn't resist him, and they would either make love well into the evening, or just cuddle. Either way, he would be in the bed with her. Neither would have it any other way, of course.

"Right, well, let's hurry up and get to the house so we can get our things down and finally speak with Antonio. The messenger said he was eager to meet with us," she mused, gesturing towards the turn towards the section of the district where the Thieves—and they—slept.

"Hopefully it really is the signal to strike. We've had to spend so much time building things against Emilio… I worry what the Spaniard's been planning."

"He hasn't been spotted here the whole time."

"I know, but I don't doubt he's been doing some kind of work here. I just wish we knew what."

"We will—in time. First we have to get rid of Emilio and replace him with our own people. Then we can finally ensure a foothold here. We might even draw him out if he knows we're working to stop them here," Catherine mused as they turned a corner, but then ducked out of the way when a platoon of guards came by.

Ezio stayed somewhat in front of her, eyes watching as he replied, "I don't know if that's a good thing or not, though. If he starts his plan early… there may be trouble."

"We'll find a way to deal with whatever happens," the redhead spoke softly, reaching over to grasp his hand and squeeze gently. "We always do."

He looked back at her, smiling a little, "We do. But you know I like to worry."

"No, I like to worry. I'm just finally rubbing off on you… in the metaphorical way, anyways."

"Did you just make a dirty joke? A terrible dirty joke?"

She grinned, "Maybe."

"God help us," Ezio laughed, shaking his head, and then tugged on her hand. "Alright, come on, they've passed."

She snickered as she followed, and waited a moment before smirking, "By the way, I know you loved that joke."

He paused before he replied with his own smirk, "I did."

The redhead just laughed, and they continued on the rest of the way fairly quietly. There wasn't much more to be said, and there wasn't anything new to concern them. At most they stopped to briefly chat with some thieves they recognized and had worked with more than once, but otherwise they went unmolested. It wasn't much farther to the main quarters, and while Antonio's door was in sight, they diverted to the left to open the door to their personal house, which they'd slowly tailored to their taste over the years.

It was far more polished, and any tattered parts had long since been repaired. The furniture was fixed or new, and it was not unlike some of the rooms in the Villa. Their bedroom had been refitted to be was Ezio's in the tower, and it was to there they placed their things. Normally, they would have gladly collapsed onto it and taken a nap, but they had been summoned ahead of time and so returned down to the courtyard and approached the wooden entrance to Antonio's meeting room. It was Ugo who opened it, his mug as same as it ever was, and still wearing the usual unkempt clothing.

"Ah, you've made it. It's about time," he smirked, motioning them in. Behind him, both the leader of the Thieves and Rosa stood beside the model of the city. Unlike four years ago, however, there were far more little figurines of Thieves all about the city rather than soldiers. It was a testament to their hard work, and it was a good sight to see.

"Indeed. For a minute there we almost worried," Rosa chuckled with a wink.

"Worried? About us?"

"No—about having to open the door and find you both mid—."

"Ha ha ha, yeah no, we weren't going to do that. Happened once—don't need it to happen again, thanks," Catherine butt in, giving the woman thief a quick look. She was given but a snicker in kind, which was a lot better than the full-blown laughter when it had happened about a year ago and left the redhead redder than a tomato. Thieves and their damn light feet—and light knocking combined with lack of manners, apparently.

"Well, we still can if you really want us to, Rosa," Ezio mused, brow waggling.

The woman shook her head, "No thank-you. The one time was enough, and I think Catherine agrees."

"Indeed," Antonio spoke up, a wry look about him, and the others soon grew somber. Taking that as his cue, he motioned to the model. "I am glad you made it back safely, although I suppose that is not something to truly worry about anymore thanks to your work."

The young man shrugged, "We did have to avoid a few guards."

"Better than a whole armada like it used to be," Ugo hummed as he joined them, eyes glancing over the diagram.

The Thief leader nodded, "Certainly. More importantly, though—Emilio is scared. He may not seem like it, but he has been slowly drawing in; barricading himself, if you will, within the Palazzo. He has been posting more archers, pulling patrols closer. He knows he is weak, and we are almost back at full strength. I believe it will only be a few more days, and then it will be time to strike."

"Do you have a plan already?" Catherine inquired, leaning forward on the table.

"Of sorts… it is still in the works as we continue to gather the strength we need."

"But we do have some things for you both to do to help us get there all the faster," Rosa added, a mischievous twinkle in her eye. "Some guards were getting a little rowdy—it would do the people good if a pair of mysterious Assassins were to do something about it."

"Well, I hope you're able to find such mysterious characters," Ezio smirked, exchanging a look with the redhead, whom smirked right back.

"We haven't heard anything back from some groups in the western docks for a day or two as well. Some of my boys might be in trouble," Ugo rumbled a bit uneasily, folding his arms over his chest. "I wouldn't mind help looking into it, and you two can get where we can't."

"Got it. We'll see about 'asking' around," Catherine hummed, peering over at the location.

"Excellent. As always I am grateful for your help in this. We would never have gotten this far without you both. Feel free to rest as you need for these tasks. I will be sure to have Fontina prepare fresh meals for you," Antonio smiled.

Ezio nodded, "That would be wonderful. We could use some rest, but we should be able to start by nightfall. Use the dark as cover."

"We'll keep tabs on the guards—and keep an ear out for the men. With any luck we'll have an update for you by then," Rosa replied. "In the meantime, rest up… and do try to not get to loud, will you? Some of us are actually resting when we say resting."

"Har har har," Catherine snorted, giving the woman yet another look. She did love the jokes, though. The woman-thief was a good friend, and the grins they shared a second later showed it. "Don't worry—I'll make sure he stays tame. Truth be told, we do actually sleep after the boat ride here."

"If you say so," the thief winked, earning a laugh in kind.

"Alright, alright we best get going then—before Antonio gets frustrated with his children fooling around and making jokes," Ezio snickered as he wrapped an arm around Catherine's waist.

The thief leader chuckled, "It may come as a surprise, but I am quite used to this kind of banter."

"Isn't that right, Ugo?" Rosa purred, casting a glance the thief's way. He made a somewhat uncomfortable face—the kind someone made when trying to hide a secret. Only, the redhead was already well aware of their relationship. It had blossomed quite nicely, and the two made a good couple. They reminded Catherine of her and Ezio, in a way.

"Right. Well, we best get started on resting up. We'll get with ya'll once we're ready," the redhead chuckled, slipping out of her lover's grip and heading for the door.

"Sleep well, my friends. You will not get much of it when we celebrate our victory," Antonio spoke sincerely, and Catherine believed him.

They would think on it later, though; for now they needed that nap they'd spoken of. And with but a quick stroll back to their house, a quick stripping of clothing and slipping beneath the sheets, and they were sound asleep, although they never let the thought of the coming battle to come get too far from their mind.

Soon—very soon, Emilio Barbarigo would die.


54 End


TMWolf: And that's a wrap-for this chapter! As I said, four years have gone by, so I figured a letter to Mom would be the perfect way for Catherine to tell us what all happened. To sum it up, though...

Catherine and Ezio have tried, but are, apparently, unable to have children. And they've tried-a lot. They have come to terms with the fact, and may consider adoption instead.

Claudia had a second child, whom they named Federico.

Thieves are much stronger. Templars weaker.

Catherine and Ezio are, for lack of better word, madly in love.

Catherine no longer desires to return home (for sure).

The Clock may have done more than she thought four years ago.

And that's the big, main points in the letter. So a lot, but not a lot has happened. Plenty more stuff to come, so be ready, folks! First, though, time to kill a Barbarigo :p Until next update!