Edited Version: I've gone through this at least ten times, I apologize a head of time for any mistakes and for the lack of translations. I'd also like to thank: BMD-X, Fox Mew Brittany, Lunatic Glare, and War Sage for reviewing.

Re-Re-Edited Version: Thanks to Fox Mew Brittany for pointing out my horrible mistakes. BLARG! Please excuse my awfulness at editing! So technically she was my beta, now everything's all good! Unless there was stuff even the two of us couldn't see. I hope not! -_-'

-X-

"Beyond a doubt truth bears the same relation to falsehood as light to darkness."-Leonardo da Vinci

"There will come a day in which men no longer cheat each other. And on that day we will see what mankind is truly capable of." -Giovanni Auditore

-X-

"Shadowed History"

Chapter 1: "Reborn"

Leonardo di ser Piero da Vinci was his full name. This man, little did he know, would be spoken about throughout history due to his incredible genius. The Renaissance Man. This man's story was a long one, but all he cared about was that now; the year of 1470 he had his own little workshop in Florence, Italy. He truly couldn't care less about anything other than his moment's passions. As being proved by his chronic procrastination problem.

While this genius' workshop was one of the more disorganized it held beauty that only those with an open mind could ever truly understand. This genius, like most, was misunderstood by society. Because of his strange actions and characteristics they did not hold him in high regard. Such a shame. But there are always those, whom themselves are different from others, who see such genius' true potential where he himself does not. Luckily these people do indeed exist: Supporters of more than just art; people that lurk beyond the shadows.

Little does Leonardo also know that he was about to meet another of his kind. She was outcasted because of her abilities and because of her mindset; born to a time that did not fit or suit her. Now her life was no longer her own, she had made too many mistakes for it to be. Her second chance would lie in his hands alone.

October, 3, 1470. Florence, Italy. 10 PM.

It was raining heavily outside, dark, clouded, and dreary. It was rare to see such storms in Florence, but this did not deter Leonardo at all. Earlier that day Leonardo's teacher had visited him, checking up on him. While usually his teacher would in-fact teach him something, that day Andrea di Cione; known as Verrocchio, had been very busy. He only stopped in to see on Leonardo's progress.

It was only a year ago that Verrocchio was teaching him while in his father's residence. During that last year; Leonardo had decided to claim his independence and found a workshop of his own. Away from his family, Leonardo started to grow, shine. His ambitions grew and so did his inspiration. Luckily; Verrocchio lived in his own workshop somewhere in Florence as well. Making Leonardo much more comfortable with the arrangement, since he at least new one man in this new environment he called home.

At the moment Leonardo was working on some sketches that he had been dying to jot down all day. It was pure bliss to finally be able to. He sat in the main room of the workshop on a stool in front of a large crème colored canvas. He was sketching lightly on the canvas with a small piece of black chalk. While he loved paints more, he was using chalk because he only had so much paint, and the paints he needed cost many Florins. Florins he did not have. Florins he would earn with these sketches. Leonardo hoped he would earn some credibility with these sketches, and get someone interested in commissioning more of his work. If he could get commissions, then he could get money, and after all that he could paint to his heart's content.

He wanted to do more than paint though, so much more!

The only thing lighting the room were a few candles seated here and there on small tables and chairs. Sketches and notes were strewn everywhere, as well as everything else, almost as if a storm had come through his workshop instead of outside. Leonardo was most certainly not a very organized person. Yet, he knew where everything was. At least, that's what he said. Leonardo had promised himself rest after he was finished, yet it seemed he would be up all night working. He did not mind however, he enjoyed his work too much to. Sleep could come later, he really needed to finish. It wasn't that he had a dead line, it was just, and he had put his work off for far too long.

It was in that moment, however, that Leonardo heard something that shook him to his very core. It was a blood curdling scream! Then, directly after, a loud clap of thunder, so loud it shook the room down to its roots. From hearing that, the artiest jumped from his seat, dropping his chalk piece onto the floor. He could feel the hairs on the back of his neck stand on end. He himself felt a cold shiver go up his spine. Something was wrong, very wrong; he could feel it in his gut. Although Leonardo did not have many gut instinct feelings, he did trust them when he felt them. Something wasn't right and Leonardo knew it. Yes, he had heard screaming before but never like this. To him it sounded like the screaming of a condemned soul, bound to never see the sun or freedom again.

The screaming lasted for a while and as it did, Leonardo could tell that the origin of said screaming was near. Normally Leonardo did not go head-first into any dangerous situations, but curiosity got the better of him, as it always did. So the inventor sat up from his stool, walked to the door, and then slung it open. He began to trudge through the dark and gloomy storm as he stepped outside. The wind and rain nearly knocked off the red beret on his head, his cape waving behind him madly. This storm seemed to symbolize danger itself to Leonardo. It seemed almost as if it was foreshadowing events to come through the darkness of the night.

The young genius was drenched before he even took a step and could not even see a foot in front of himself; it was so dark. Yet, somehow he was able to make out the body of someone a few feet away. They were lying, face up, in the middle of the road. By their position Leonardo could tell that that person was in great pain, their head looking up into the abysmal sky. He could just barely hear a groaning noise coming from them, as if they could no longer scream but could not stop expressing the pain they were going through. This shocked Leonardo, as he saw no guards anywhere, or anyone else, who would have hurt this person. Matter of fact, the storm was so bad, Leonardo thought most likely even the guards and thieves themselves were safely tucked away somewhere. Only a reckless man would trudge through such darkness in the night.

Suddenly, Leonardo noticed the waves of the blue lighting surrounding each of the person's body parts, running up and down them in smaller waves. Like a current, but electric currents had yet to be discovered, so Leonardo did not know about them. Leonardo imagined that this person had burn marks all over their body from such a strike. If his theory was right that is. Leonardo believed that if the body lying there had such energy around them that maybe the clap of thunder he heard came from a lightning strike that had hit them head on. That would explain a lot. Even though Leonardo had only heard of one incident where a man was struck by lightning, it was just such a rare natural act. He had heard about the examination of the body though, the burn marks on him as if he had been touched by fire. It was all so strange….and fascinating!

The body, reflexively, jerked up and doubled over backwards in pain, screaming again. The smaller waves of electric current began to reduce to nothing as the body shook and trembled uncontrollably on the ground. The actions reminded Leonardo so much of a fish out of water, the way the person's body flopped around. Leonardo, finally out of his shocked trance, ran up to the body that lay on the ground. Since it was no longer making noise or moving he thought that that person was dead. But when he knelt down beside it he could see the chest rise and fall. He checked the body and he was right, there were burn marks all over... her. It was clearly a young woman. She wore such strange clothing though, and it had many holes in it, so it was very easy to spot her gender.

He was startled to realize the body was of a young female, very young, yet not too much younger than he himself. Her complexion was light, pale, and pure. Her hair was a dark brown auburn but it seemed that the length of it had been burned off, now it was short, just above shoulder length. Her hair also seemed to be like silk, smooth and completely straight, sticking mostly to her face now however, thanks to the rain. Her clothes were burned and were raggedy all over her body; they also stuck to her as she was far more drenched then Leonardo. Her long slim yet muscular legs showed the most, her arms seemed to be the same. Where she should have had bruises or scars she did not. Leonardo found this odd, but that wasn't what was important at the moment.

He had to awake her!

"La signorina è necessario alzarsi!" Leonardo tried to yell over the storm as he shook the young girl by her shoulders, trying to wake her. Her body, to his touch, was incredibly warm, almost as if she had just walked out of a fire. But no matter how much Leonardo tried she would not move, now, she was completely silent and motionless. "Si può camminare signorina?" Leonardo asked her but got no response. She merely continued to lay prone. This worried Leonardo and he chewed on his lip as he thought about what he could do. He needed to help her, why; he did not know. It was just, she seemed worth saving. There was just something about her; he could not put his finger on it. Whatever it was, Leonardo was a kind hearted man, and helping those that needed him, he was happy to do.

With his decision made, Leonardo decided to pick her up and carry her to his workshop. While Leonardo was not an incredibly strong man, this girl seemed to weigh barely anything. He saw why as he was carrying her, she was nothing more than skin and bones. Yet, oddly enough, on her stomach lay muscles Leonardo had only seen on a man. This intrigued him, but not enough to make him stop what he was doing at the moment. He took the girl into his workshop and laid her on the bed he had set out for models, for while they were modeling. After he gently sat her down he went to grab a rag drenched in cold water for her forehead.

But as Leonardo came back in to see to her fever and burn marks he was shocked, no terrified, to see that every burn mark on her body was gone. Vanished into thin air! Almost as if she never had them. Who on Earth was this girl? Even her fever had vanished, yet she did not awake or open her eyes. What sorcery was this? No, Leonardo did not believe in magic. He believed in science! Now, he knew for sure that he had made the right choice. When this girl woke she would answer his questions!

Leonardo sighed and put away the rag, clearly she did not need it. Afterwards he tucked the girl in, as now she was properly asleep, no groaning or moaning coming from her. He decided to do the same. He would hear if she got up, most likely though he would not be able to sleep after tonight's events anyway. His mind would constantly be turning, thinking. He had to contemplate everything to its fullest! So no, he would barely get any sleep this night. Too much excitement now ran through his blood, all thanks to his new guest.

-X-

October, 9, 1470. Florence, Italy. Noon.

"Alonzo!" Leonardo cried as he tried to catch up with me. I was surprised to see him, but I smiled and laughed when I saw how unfit he was compared to me. The poor man was running after me, hands on his knees, after he caught up, trying to breathe. He needed to be out and about more often. When Leonardo noticed I was laughing he pouted and I laughed harder. "It is not fair for you to run off when you know I want to go with you to the market." He stated; his cheeks all red from running so far.

He was so cute when he tried to be demanding. He could never pull it off though. He was too kind hearted, too gullible. Sometimes I felt bad for the guy, worried that he was really too kind. Then I realized I am here to protect him, and that he'll be fine. Kindness, to some, is not a weakness. Well, I hadn't changed that much, yet.

"I am sorry Leonardo Maestro; you could inform me of your presence before expecting me to slow down for you. Besides," I stated slyly. "It is the assistenti's job to fetch supplies from the market." I said in my fake Italian tongue, since I did grow up in Colorado, not Italy. But thanks to a gift I was given I could understand Italian as if it was English and speak it as if it was English. Odd, I still did not understand how, and it felt strange, like I was me but someone else with different knowledge and skills. There were still so many unexplained things going on around me, but I did not mind. Italy was so much nicer than New York; I only worried that I might wake up if I think too deeply about my situation.

The dirty blonde painter pouted again. "I know! But you do not always get the right kind of paints I want." He lied; he was such a horrible liar. I could read the guy like an open book, but that was good, it meant I could trust him.

"Liar, you just want to come so you can follow me around as if I were your cucciolo." I countered as I continued walking the streets of Florence, while carrying a wooden made box, which I would use to carry back the things I would buy from the market. Since there were no such things as carts or Wal-Mart bags, this would have to do. To tell the truth, I liked it better. The smell of Seeder was nice to me and I never ended up getting splinters in my hand like I thought I would. It was nice.

The young red beret wearing man scoffed jokingly. "Non avrei mai!" He replied sarcastically, a large shining smile on his face. His eyes were always alight with passion and inspiration. Such were the eyes of the smartest man in history.

I could only laugh, 'Yeah right, Leo.' I thought, rolling my eyes in the process. "Well as long as my Maestro is following me, you should take lead." I indicated to in front of me, my hand coming out from under the wooden box, Leo nodded and followed through. As the young genius began to lead and ramble off on what he had planned for the week my mind began to drift off. Only a week ago I was a delivery girl in New York that delivered dangerous and illegal devices to very dangerous people. I had turned down my bloodline destiny to do something completely dark and dreadful. I still regret what I did, very much so.

But about a week ago, as well, I was given a second chance. That second chance was like being reborn, my body completely free of scars or any sign of previous use. My second chance was in 1470 Florence, Italy, with THE Leonardo da Vinci. What luck, right? He was pretty young right now though, six years younger than most would think, since it was 1470. It was painful experience, what I think was time travel. The female God sent me here, I think. I was so unsure of anything, but the point was, I was more than happy here. I loved Italy, just being here made me feel… mellow. I felt calmer, warm on the inside. The melancholy way that I once saw things was forever gone. That did not mean, however, I was not bitter towards my past. I was changing, just, slowly.

This man though, oh god this man; Leonardo. I call him Leo, when were not in public. He took me in with a grin on his face and kindness in his eyes. The man I had heard was such a genius in my history class actually acts like a little kid in real life. Oh! Not all the time though. He is really incredible, it's just...he wants to have fun as well as live a serious life, and almost everything excites him or fascinates him. I respect him for that, and I think he's right. Why be serious all the time? Why grow up if you can't act like a little kid every once in a while? 'Ya know?

The day I woke up in his workshop I was astounded and worried that if I told Leonardo the truth of what happened to me he'd think I was crazy. He believed me though; 'cause I had to tell him! He wanted answers so badly! He was just so curious! I was reluctant to tell him at first, but to me it seemed like he had such an open mind. If anyone here would believe me it would be him. He did too, every single word I said. He is truly too kind. Too kind to be real, he's more of a dream. My second chance.

I didn't tell him I was an Assassin though, or about the dream, my visions, or my second chance. Just that I was from another time and that I was stuck here 'till I did something in particular. What that particular thing was, I didn't know. Really, I'd be happy to be here forever! But, there's no way! I can't butterfly effect history. I'm worried I'm already messing up time, but what exactly can I do about that? I don't have a TARDIS 'ya know. No…you wouldn't.

Until then, he had said that he would allow me to be his assistant. It was a cover and something for me to do until I figured this out. He knows I'm a woman, but my disguise is that I'm an eighteen year old boy from Vicci that lost his parents, and Leonardo saw potential in me so he hired me off the streets. The clothes I was wearing did a good job of hiding my identity too and of making me look like a street rat. The old gray hat that I wore to cover my face, my eyes, and my hair looked like a beret crossed with a ball cap. It has a name but I don't remember what it's called. Then the slightly ragged, brown, worn out pants, shirt, and shoes made me look the part. I looked almost exactly like the lower middle class citizens of Florence.

Since a week ago I've be doing as told, I've actually have been acting as his assistant, not that I mind, its how I'm paying him back. I've been doing the cleaning, delivering messages, delivering paintings, and anything else he needs me for. He thinks I might model for him sometime, but I highly doubt it. I'm not pretty enough for that. I knew I was safe with him though. The warmth and love he gives off, like...I don't know...a crazy older brother. I know he won't try anything too, because he's a homosexual, but I haven't told him I know that yet. History class teaches you a great many things when you pay attention, or when you Google it out of random interest. Yeah, I didn't pay attention much in my 'normal' classes.

The first couple of nights were awkward but now I'm completely comfortable around him. He grows on me more and more every day, I think it's a vice versa thing too. He also gave me the name Alonzo, but he only calls me that while we are in public, it is my fake Italian cover name after all. While it is just us he calls me Ash. Not that I'm really Skyler Ash anymore any way though. I don't mind it; the nickname gives me a sense of trust. As the young artist continues his rambling I just watch him and smile a smile that was distant, sad, happy, and longful. I was so full of emotions lately.

Leonardo's always worried about me, oddly. It's almost as if he actually thinks of me as a sibling now. I guess maybe he does, maybe since he was an only son that he's always wanted a younger sibling to dote on. For example; the first few times I came to fetch things in town for him, he got all worried and ruffled. He had said 'what if you got lost', 'what if someone tried to hurt you', and other stuff like 'what if someone found out you're a woman'? But the thing is; he doesn't know I'm a five star fighter. I've beaten guys ten times my size with ten times more experience. It was my heritage shining through, my training. I trained all my life to be an Assassin. So I was more than sure I could take care of myself.

"So what do you think amico mio?" Leo asked regardingly as we stopped a few feet away from the market. He turned to me smiling, gesturing towards some of the other paintings. There was a stall, an art merchant shop. It had many very good and extravagate paintings hanging from its walls. I thought Leonardo's were better though. But he wanted my opinion; I didn't know what to say though.

I blinked rapidly, unsure, thinking, "Of what Maestro?" I asked, clearly not having paid attention to what he had been talking about earlier. Obliviously he meant something specific; at least I think he did. I had been off in my own thoughts, so for all I know, he had been talking about what I should make for dinner.

Leonardo sighed, rubbing the hair under his red beret. It looked strange when he did that, like the hat was itchy or something. The look suited him though. "Of what I had planned assistenti! You were not listening to me were you? Dios Mio! What am I going to do with you Alonzo?" Leo said, exasperated. Leonardo was more than patient though, he was just being eccentric. One of these days he'd learn to cool his jets.

I bowed my head, as much as I could with a wooden box in my hands, it was harder than you could imagine. "I am sorry Maestro; perhaps you should ...punish me." I said, trying to sound serious but not being serious at all. I raised and lowered my eyebrows, trying to get him to blush with my perverted comment. I was a huge pervert after all, or was I? I didn't know anymore.

Leo blushed, thinking of me as a man at the moment, I imagined. The idea, I have to admit, got me a little hot under the collar. But I loved the fact it was so easy to make him blush. It was just too much fun! I smirked evilly; it was just too easy. "You should not talk that way Alonzo; you will get me in trouble." He whispered harshly, nervous. He looked around to make sure no one heard me. I could only laugh. Like I'd let anyone hurt him.

"I was only kidding Maestro; you should stop getting so ruffled all the time." I laughed as I walked past Leo into the market place. Quickly I began to pick up apples, carrots, bananas, cheeses, and breads. Most of them came from the same market stall, whose vendor owned a large stake of land that he grew and managed all sorts of foods on. It was all very impressive, and delicious! I usually picked up any type of food that did not spoil extremely quickly. Refrigerators didn't exist yet after all. I would pay for them with the florins in my pocket, which held a coin purse in it, then put the food in the box. Leo was behind me looking at art, paints, canvases, and other such things the market place provided. He was awestruck and distracted far too easily. He'd make a horrible Assassin.

He would toss and turn his head, squint, and rub his not-yet-formed beard as he examined other art. He was scrutinizing it. Analyzing it to see its imperfections then paint something much better. But he would still appreciate it, voice its high quality, and never verbally state its quirks. It was completely adorable. He reminded me of a Golden Retriever puppy sometimes. Those big blue eyes and golden hair, his attitude matched it to a T.

As I was about to call to Leo, while walking back towards his workshop along the road from the market, I was tripped. Luckily, my grip was firm on the wooden box, so instead of fruit flying everywhere, the box landed safely on the ground, with my hand still attached to it. I had landed flat on my stomach, air rushing from my lungs as I impacted. The men who tripped me laughed as I got to my knees, quickly getting back up from such a fall, brushing off what I could, I fumed from the ache all over my body. On my knees I could feel a stinging and burning sensation, meaning they were skinned. Raw and bloody, my pants ripped.

I could feel the anger in me boiling as the two drunkards, who had tripped me, continued to laugh their fat asses off at the little 'assistenti boy'; as they called me. Heads were about to roll. I may have mellowed but no one got the better of me! I had killed over sixty men in my life time, tortured more. My temper was legendary among the streets of New York.

"It seems you cannot keep you balance well, ragazzo." The man who spoke was pudgy, fat, and lazy. He was a man who rolled around in his medium wealth and got drunk in it. The type of guy no one says no to because he has hired thugs. He was a guy with no respect towards others and a death wish. He thinks he's untouchable just 'cause he has some money.

"What good of an assistenti are you if you keep tripping like that?" The pudgy man's friend was no better. He was tall and lanky, no real muscle on him what-so-ever. He too wore robes that were nice, but not overly extravagate. They both just looked like they had come from a brothel, high from sex and alcohol. They thought they were badass, well I didn't.

I tried to suppress a growl as they kept harassing me. But if I had been a woman it would have been much worse. Of course, the last guy that tried to rape me, was castrated; with a blunt knife. 'So yeah, keep mocking me idiots, see who gets the last laugh!' I slowly stood up and checked all of the fruit and food in the wooden box. All of it seemed fine and accounted for. For that I was glad. But my knees were so bad they were still bleeding, barely any skin there left on my bones. If there had not been holes in my pants there it probably would not have been as I admit Florence is beautifully designed they apparently didn't think about skinned knees when they built the road and walk of the place. I hissed in pain as I stood to my feet, it wasn't really bad but then again bad to me was getting shot in the shoulder, one of your legs, and living. So...yeah.

"Oh! Is the assistenti ragazzo going to fight us?" The pudgy one asked the lanky one sarcastically.

"If he does he will lose." The lanky one snarled; his stance tipsy at best.

As I fisted my hand and looked over at the two drunken retards, who were begging to be beaten to the ground, I saw something out of the corner of my eye. There was suddenly white in a sea of browns and greys, among the crowds of people in the market. Instantly I turned back to the two men though, I knew where my concentration needed to be, both stood proudly upon their inflated egos. Luckily, I had the pin to deflate them.

"Alonzo!" Leonardo then ran up to me, ruining my plan. "Are you alright?" He sounded so worried. He had apparently just noticed what was going on. He saw my knees and dread filled his eyes. He even seemed guilty that he did not notice sooner. I sighed at that.

"Is this your assistenti, artista?" The pudgy one asked, sneering down at Leonardo.

"You should teach him how to walk without tripping." The lanky one said, following the pudgy one's gaze.

I grinded my teeth slowly, trying not to growl. Leonardo had to laugh to cover up the pain and worry on his face. "I will try signore." He nodded quickly and tried to usher me foreword. But I wouldn't budge. "Please Alonzo; we do not want to make a scene." Leo pleaded to me in my ear, his hand on my shoulder.

"Please, go home Maestro, men like this need to be taught a lesson." I popped my knuckles as I whispered back to him. My temper just flared. I promised myself these guys would pay; anger like mine could not be put out so easily.

"No, you will get in trouble with the guards." He warned me, desperately tugging on my arm so I would leave with him. He really did not want either of us getting into trouble. It was easy to get into trouble here; in Florence. Sneeze at the wrong person and you'd get arrested. I think it is because this place is under Templar control.

"Screw the guards." I hissed, suddenly speaking in English again. I barely noticed the change from one language to another. Matter of fact; I would not have noticed the change at all, it was so subtle, if Leonardo had not flinched and drawn his brows together in confusion. He knew a bit of every language, but not what I said in American English. I tried not to do that again, but I found speaking English every once in a while to be comforting.

"Please, Alonzo, I don't want you to get hurt." Leo begged, as he hugged my arm suddenly, like a distraught mother. It was then I realized; I wasn't doing as I was supposed to. Leo was giving me an order and if I didn't follow it he would be in as much trouble as I. So I sighed, and was about to comply...when the tables turned.

"So, little artista…-" The lanky one with a high pitched voice said; his tone taunting and far too prideful. "For helping teach your assistenti a lesson you should reward us." He began to circle us then, like scavenger birds, his friend copying his movements but in the opposite direction.

"Yes," The pudgy one nodded in agreement, circling like hungry predators. "Reward us." He commanded, all high and mighty, thinking they were both above everyone else. They really needed to be taken down a peg.

I scowled, how disgusting; I thought. Men with so much greed, they are blinded to see what stands in front of them: Their down fall. Rule one in life; don't piss off a female Assassin. It is a lesson I was more than happy to teach. No one and I mean no one; was going to hurt Leonardo! I'd cut them to pieces long before they could lay a finger on him! Leo backed away from me, scared, terrified, I could see it in his eyes, but even then he only backed away a little bit. He seemed to draw the feeling of safety from being closer to me. He looked through his pockets and paled. "While I would love to pay you signore's, I have nothing to offer." He told them honestly. He never carried his wallet with him. Originally it is a good idea not to carry your money around in a place like this; I've never seen so many thieves in my life. Today, however, it's come back to bite us.

The two greedy men turned on him, not believing him. They began to near him, stalking him like prey, their eyes hungry and greedy, but I stepped in their way. They both grinned like sharks. I scowled heavily at them, blocking their way from poor little Leo. This was about to get messy.

"Pay us, little artista, or you and your assistenti will pay by blood." The pudgy one warned, shooting up a red flag in my mind. How dare they threaten us like that? Now that they threatened my Maestro I was 'allowed' to protect him. I now had a story to tell the guards if they asked what the commotion was about. They had no idea what Hell they had just unleashed, I had been waiting for this. The men tried to corner us, but I stayed in front of them, protecting Leonardo. They sneered at my loyalty like rabid dogs, their eyes so dark it was like they were demons.

"Oh! How sweet! The little assistenti is trying to protect his Maestro. You should run while you still can, find another Maestro that isn't dead by the time we are done with him." The lanky one threatened, as if he was going to leave this alive. Their greed and corruption was their undoing. That, however, was the last straw. Now this hay was about to be set on fire.

"Maestro, please, go back to the workshop. I will be right behind you." I lied to Leonardo, trying to wave him back home. I reached for the grasp he now had on my shoulder. He had that gaze in his eyes, and I looked into those seas of sky blue. I needed him to understand but I couldn't warn him verbally.

"But-!" He tried to stop me, but one glare from me made him gulp. He nodded and wished me well as he grabbed the box of supplies and headed back to the workshop. I hoped he would be okay and understand why I had to do this, why I had to protect him. I knew Leonardo was not a man of violence, but I also knew he would be beating himself up over leaving me. He was always worried and guilt ridden, thinking it was his fault. I would show him however, that he could trust me; that I could protect myself and him.

"So the little-" Before the pudgy one could finish what he was saying, my foot was in his face. It was a high kick to his nose, blood spurting everywhere. My fist whipped around, my body acting like that of a rubber band, my knuckles popping into the lanky man's face. I punched the pudgy one as I spun into a circle kicking the lanky one as well. When both of my feet were on the lanky one's face I pushed off, doing a back flip in mid-air to land on my feet again. I had to grab my hat quickly, off of the ground, as it had fallen from my head mid-flight, before the two could see my eyes and face. I put it on and turned around to face them quickly, using a two-step move.

Blood was flowing down both of their faces as they yelped, cradling their bloody noses in their hands. They could dish it out but not take it apparently. As usual they were all bark no bite; just what I would expect from rabid dogs like them.

"Demonio!" They both yelled as they ran away, fleeing like cowards; showing their true colors as they realized just who they were messing with.

I laughed, hard. It had been a while since I was in a fight that easy. "Codardos!" I cheered as they ran as fast as they could away, down the road of Florence, their tails between their legs. Many citizens around me just stopped to stare and gawk at what had just happened. I could imagine why, no one had the flexibility or quickness I had in this day and age. My moves were from a Chinese martial art called Kempo, not yet discovered by any others but the Chinese. Many whispered things about me, but the mercenaries, who had watched my battle, which usually paced the parts of Florence, laughed and chuckled. They admired my speed and flexibility; I bowed to them in appreciation. I felt pretty proud at that moment, but of course it did not last.

"Ragazzo!" I heard an elderly sounding man yell from behind me. I turned around to see a large group of uniformed guards wielding weapons. Let me be honest, I nearly pissed myself. Fighting low lives on the streets was one thing, but being out numbered and out armed, that was scary as shit. I had no upper hand against them.

"Me?" I pointed to myself as the angry looking guards began to walk up to me, of course the sniffling cowards from earlier were hiding behind them. God, my day wasn't going well at all! But at least I had had that one moment of victory, and hey, maybe the guards will believe me and not arrest me. Fat chance though.

"Are you the one who attacked these men?" The lead guard asked me as he nearly stood toe to toe with me. He held the handle of his sword at his side, demanding answers through threats. He wore a large silver helmet and red and black garbs. This man seemed more like a Templar than a city guard, perhaps I should look into that. This was the time of the Borgia after all.

"Signore these men attacked my Maestro and I! I was merely defending my Maestro!" I argued knowing that most likely these guards would persecute me any way, just because I was of lower class. But I also knew I could run a lot faster than them. I had to try though; I'd rather there not be posters up of me just yet. I didn't want to get arrested over such a stupid manner.

"That is not what I was told ragazzo!" The guard in front of me yelled as he was about to hit me with the butt of his sword. He seemed to be on the side where the money lay. Greedy bastards, all of them. Oh well, I tried. Quickly, before he could even blink, I was three feet away from him, jumping back like how you would in a boxing ring, his sword hitting nothing but the air. I was far faster on my feet than he could ever be.

"Bastardo!" He yelled, angry at the fact he could not hit me and that that made him look incompetent. Of course, I didn't care. To me he was incompetent, a guard siding with the dogs. Dogs could keep their ground, I was a bird, and I'd take to the sky! "Get him!" Was all I heard as I began to run. I ran hard and fast, losing most of the guards instantly.

Then I saw white. A white hooded man watching me, among the crowd, as I ran for my life. That was most likely what I had seen earlier. The face beneath the hood smiled before he disappeared again, blending with the people. He was most definitely an Assassin. No doubt in my mind. This fact actually excited me. If he had been watching perhaps he'd show himself again later on. To be with the Assassins again, I would love that! I missed the feel of the hidden blade under my arm, against my palm. I missed the rush and adrenaline from an assassination mission, the purpose I felt while wearing a hood.

The next thing I know though, I'm grabbing a window seal above me and climbing my way up the side of a building. Free running was much easier here in Florence, Italy then it ever was in New York or Denver. I could actually enjoy free running for once instead of having to concentrate. It was just natural; jump, grab, and climb. So much easier than trying to scale a flat building with no grips or holds.

I felt the wind pass me by as I leaped from roof top to roof top. I felt like a bird flying across the buildings of Italy, almost unstoppable as I did. However, I knew I needed to hide until I was sure that no one was following me. I didn't plan on leading guards to Leo's workshop. I hid in one of the tented gazebos that stood on top of many of the buildings in Florence. I had no idea what they were there for though, except for hiding in. So, good for me! I had to admit though; I had never felt more alive than when I was running from guards on Italian roof tops.

-X-

It was fifteen minutes later I found myself back at Leo's, knocking on the door. Leo peeked through the crack, his eyes nervous, body jittery, then after seeing it was me he threw the door open and hugged me, as if he thought I was dead or something. He really had been overly worried, as usual.

"Dios Mio! I was so worried about you, signorina Ash!" With that said Leo, literally, dragged me back into the workshop, closing the door behind him. He eyed me wearily, "Are you alright? What happened?" He demanded, wanting to know if the two men had done anything to me.

"Chill Leo-" I was going to continue until I saw Leo giving me a weird look, I had been speaking English again. Not just that, but American English slang. 'Damn modern day slang! It gets so stuck in your head you use it without thinking about it!' "Calm down. I'm fine, nothing but skinned knees and fatigued muscles." I assured him, holding onto him by the shoulders. I urged him to stop shaking, but it took him a while. He really did care to much about me. After all of that he still looked worried. I sighed, exhausted. "I promise, believe it or not I'm not a half bad fighter." I tried to explain without giving away too much, I didn't want him questioning my past.

When I stated that Leo began to pout, "Bella Donna's should not have to fight!" He stated roughly, folding his arms, trying to be resolute in his beliefs. Problem was, I wasn't a beautiful woman, and where I came from everyone was on their own. I didn't have a knight in shining armor to protect me, not that I needed one.

I blushed then shook my head frantically, him calling me beautiful kinda made my gut knot. "Leo! I'm not a Bella Donna! I'm a ragazzo! Stop worrying about things I can take care of, being your assistenti as I am I should be able to protect you!" I argued, trying to make a point while still being bewildered. My job was protecting him, not parading around being helpless. Mios Dio this was annoying!

For the first time Leo glared at me, before dropping it and shrugging. "I may have only known you for a week signorina but I can already tell that you are one of those people who will do something even when they are told not to. So, I suppose I will, as you say 'live with it'." Leo tried to copy my English while still speaking Italian, it sounded incredibly weird. He even did quotation marks around the English words, copying me when I was being snarky. I thought it was hilarious! But I knew Leo; he was never one to give up. I also knew he respected other people's individuality and wishes. He would indeed live with it, but still beat himself up with worry. Later on he would gain another friend that would make him do this to himself again. He trusted us though; he had faith in our wings.

-X-

Darkness had befallen Italy once again. The sounds of the renaissance bounced off the beautiful architectural buildings of the era and from the darkened streets of Florence. The sky was set to a dark crystal blue, the stars shining brighter than in any other place or time. Leonardo was fast asleep on his stool as he still clutched his paints in his hand, having been working then fallen asleep at his canvas. What amazed me is how soundlessly this man slept, I could be looking away for a second and he would be asleep by the time I looked back. He worked himself to sleep most of the time, actually.

I laughed quietly as I shook my head, astounded by his dedication. I was standing in the doorway of his workroom as he had his head back, asleep; lightly snoring. I chuckled quietly before walking up to him. I took his beret off gingerly then his red cape. Surprisingly, I was able to pick this man up and put him on the modeling bed. I tucked him in as he turned over and got more comfortable, which he did subconsciously. This was how he treated me our first night together, gently with kindness. I couldn't help but smile at the face he made while he slept. He must have dreamt of Heaven.

When I thought about my first night with Leo; I remembered what Leonardo had first told me when I woke up the second time in his workshop. He had been watching me sleep, sketching me. He said he had never seen someone make such a sad face while they were asleep. I never could get rid of the nightmares, so I imagined I did look...hurt, lonely, sorrowful. When I closed my eyes all I saw was darkness. But now wasn't the time to think about that. Quickly, I grabbed the black raggedy cloak I had found in Leo's closet and put it on, taking my own cap off. I pulled the black make-shift hood over my head and walked to the door. All of the clothes I wore I got from the closet in the hallway, right across from the workshop entrance. I wore the clothes Leo himself could not anymore, hand-me-downs.

I know it was dangerous doing what I did, but I couldn't help it. The rush it gave me, it was one of the things I had truly ever lived for. When I was younger and lived in Denver I had this knack for becoming a vigilante, the hero of the weak. Shadow; that had been the nickname tabloid journalists had given me. I went against The Creed when I did such things, I put The Brotherhood in danger, but I never cared. It was only a month later I had bitten off more than I could chew. Not a memory I planned to remember. I was Alonzo now though, not Skyler Ash. At least that's what I kept telling myself.

In a matter of moments I found myself looking out over Florence, having jumped out of the window across from the entrance to Leo's workshop. The beautiful city of the 15th century, breathtaking as the full moon lite it's streets. One that would suffer soon enough; if the Templars had their way. I was pretty sure though that that's what I was here for; to kill Templars, as usual. Yet...just maybe, if I was right, if I remembered, I was right smack dab where the REAL war of the Templars and Assassins began. Where Ezio Auditore began his fight against the Borgia, where everything changed.

That's when I heard a scream. It was feminine, high pitched, and mellow toned. I twisted my head to the direction my ears were picking it up from. North; I had to close my eyes to make sure, because sometimes strong wind will change the direction of a sound. I just had to be sure.

I sighed, opening my eyes again, as I looked down over the edge I sat on, and as I moved to the ledge of the tower. I stood there feeling the wind on my face minutes before I performed a Leap of Faith into a hay bale below. The wind nearly taking the cloak off my back it was so strong from the jump. I never thought I'd get to perform an old style Leap of Faith again after my graduation from Novice to Assassin. It was so exhilarating! I could get addicted to that rush of adrenaline and the feel of wind under me; as if I had wings and that I could fly! But I had a feeling I would be doing it a lot now, as many times as I could.

Being in the hurry that I was though, I jumped out of the hay bale quickly and headed to where the scream originated from. I ignored the feeling of hay in my hair and ran as fast as I could. I flew down several streets and alleys before I found her; the woman that had screamed. Two armed guards were attacking a...well...ummm...a prostitute, I guess. We called 'em Hookers where I was from, but whatever. She was screaming for them to get off of her, but they were too drunk to care. Another bunch of horny greedy douche bags that had no respect for anyone else in the world. Exactly like Mister Pudgy and Mister Lanky from before.

Slowly I stride up to them, like a badass in a cape, still no weapon with me. 'Cause asking Leo for a sword would be suspicious, and I had no money to buy one. So I was weaponless, but not without tactics and skill. "Dios Mio, what are you demonio doing to this poor ragazza?" I asked, flaunting my 'oh-so-sexy' male Italian accent. Something I had mastered thanks to Leo's quick lessons. It wasn't too hard to get my voice to go baritone.

The guards, as drunk as they were, still took offense to my words, their bodies spinning around to me and their eyes glaring holes into me. The prostitute however looked grateful for my saving her; the look came from deep within her chocolate colored eyes. Although things weren't over yet, so she was thanking me far too soon, I highly doubted two drunken guards could take me. But there was a first time for everything.

"Ragazzo! This is none of your business! Leave!" One of the guards commanded as he put his hand on the hilt of his sword. He was flushed and barely standing straight, no way he was thinking of pulling a sword on me. Yet, he was, the idiot.

"Mi? Scusa mi but I am sure that rape without pay for a prostitute is illegal and bad business. I'm just being a stand up citizen." I shrugged as I watched the guards closely, while drunk they were like animals. I had a deep hatred for men like them, deeper than anyone could ever imagine. I stared them down, my green eyes boring into their native brown ones.

"Bastardo!" They both pulled out their swords suddenly, all of the guards in this area get angry to easily. "We warned you!" Then, of course, they attacked. I dodged without even having to really think about it, preforming on reflex alone. Their rapier like swords slicing the air in front of me, all I had to do was lean back out of arm's reach. When using a sword you must imagine it as a part of yourself, therefore, get out of the man's reach, you're out of the sword's reach. We are taught strict swordsmanship when growing up in any era, we Assassins.

However, I did not anticipate there to be other more sober guards coming to back up their drunken buddies. I really needed to re-think my life style some times. I was far too reckless and I was going to die far too young. "Kill him!" Was all I heard before I was surrounded on all sides, nowhere to run. They all had their swords out ready to kill me, the young girl, hooker, from earlier hid in the shadows as I was about to be skewed to the afterlife. 'Fuck me!' I blanched.

"Trying to save all of Italia one person at a time, uh, ragazzo?" A voice, suddenly and from nowhere, echoed all over as the guards looked around trying to find out where the voice was coming from. They were as distracted by it as me, looking all around like chickens with their head's cut off. But then, I tilted my head a bit to the left and looked up, there, on top of the building beside me, was a man. The figure it belonged to stood hidden by shadows on that building. The full moon shined brilliantly behind his stilettoed form. Even though the figure was meant to be feared, his voice made me think otherwise. It was a warm and aged voice, fatherly if anything. The voice was of a very deep baritone with a strong Italian accent. Oddly enough; it reminded me of my father.

I laughed audibly at the figure's statement, he was right after all, but to say it so bluntly and while I was surrounded by guards, that's what I thought was funny. "Si signore; that I am! I was succeeding, until these bastardo guards decided to cheat!" I yelled so that the figure would hear from how far up he was, I could almost feel the guards glaring at me. I flipped them off, not really caring what they did now. I was, after all, the better man.

"Perhaps we should even the odds? Si?" The shadowed form then stepped out and fell from the roof of the building, landing elegantly on the concreted street; feet first to be exact. It was pretty awesome, and truly badass. Now that the light was on him I recognized him, he was the white hooded man that had been watching me when I fought those men earlier. It seemed I already had a stalker, but not an unwanted one. From his clothing I could tell he too was an Assassin, just as I thought! It was confirmed that I was correct.

"Grazie signore!" I said as the man quickly pulled out his sword and began to stride up to us, taking man after man out on his walk towards me. His rapier like sword was quick; one swing would take one, if not more, guards down. He was elegant about it too, like a dove, moving with practiced graze and poise. He truly had great training to move like he did. I did the same, but had a harder time since all I had was my fists. But it was a matter of moments before we were back to back, all the guards either dead or unconscious. "So, with what name should I thank my savior?" I asked, turning to him. I saw his face now and thought it oddly familiar, like I had seen it somewhere before.

The man grinned under his hood. "Can I truly trust you with such a name, ragazzo?" He asked slyly, his own eyes analyzing me, searching for something that lay deep within, such is the Assassin way. To know exactly to whom you refer to just by looking at them. No worthy Master Assassin would give away their identity, even if you saw their face, it meant nothing.

I bowed to the man, but never did I break the contact between our eyes. If a predator would approach a predator they would never stray looking down each other's noses. As soon as one would break contact the other would strike and a battle would commence. We were both powerful birds in a cage; there were boundaries of respect to be taken. "You saved my life; I owe you a great debt." I admitted as I straightened myself out again, standing inches away from him.

The man laughed with his golden eyes, his lips upturned in a deep smile. He bowed back, also admitting his respect. "My name is Giovanni Auditore, now who, might I ask, are you?" He asked standing again, as he sheathed his bloody blade.

I paused, a gasp caught in my throat as a realization struck me like a ton of bricks! 'The Giovanni Auditore? The father of Ezio Auditore? Master of the Assassin Order during the 14th century? Ezio being the Mentor during the 15th century and Niccolo Machiavelli being the Master before him.' My brain scanned over every bit of information I learned during my years of Assassin history class. What? Did you think Assassins had normal history classes? I didn't go to a normal school after all. You get to learn a lot about Assassin history when Lucas is your Mentor. God! That guy never shuts up. But at the moment I was glad. 'If I'm right then...I'm SO screwed.'

The pause for thought was not taken lightly by Giovanni, as he waved his hand in front of my face, his brow raised, concern in his eyes. "Are you alright ragazzo?" He asked, worry in his voice.

"Oh! Spiacente! I seem to have sp-...went to deep in thought. Scusa mi." I bowed to him again as I said 'thought'. This man deserved respect; no demanded it, he was after all the Master of the Assassin Order. Even though I betrayed the Assassins at one time didn't mean I lost respect for them.

"It is alright, ragazzo. Now, you never told me your name." Giovanni repeated his question, but before I could answer it the prostitute from earlier came up to us. She was clearly shaken, fear and terror written all over her face. She trembled violently as she trudged up to us, breaking the conversation between us.

"Ah! Signorina, I am sorry. I almost forgot you were there." I then walked over to her and put my arm around her shoulder to comfort and warm her. She seemed to shake less after I did that. I was kinda like a security blanket for her, the ones cops put over victims after they find 'em.

She looked up to me, her red hair down to her shoulders, bruises on her arms, and smiled warmly up at me. My heart shook from her smile, it reminding me of a friend I left behind in New York. The only friend I had in New York. "Grazie signore! Grazie!" She said hurriedly, her cheeks beginning to blush. She was desperate for comfort, and while I admitted she was beautiful, that was not the way I swung. I felt very awkward by how she looked at me, but I had to swallow it and help her, and stop worrying about my own feelings.

Giovanni came up to me then, surprising the girl, he then put a comforting hand on her shoulder, which was very close to my neck. "You must be one of Paola's ragazzas." He stated; then he looked up at me. Suddenly his gaze was very serious towards me, as if he remembered there was business to be done. "We should walk her home; it is not far from here." He took the girl's hand and began to walk away before I could reply, but I did as directed. I kinda had to if I wanted to see what was going to happen next. Being around Giovanni was like standing out in a lightning storm, humid and electrifying, another feeling I was going to get very addicted too. What was I saying? I already needed rehab from it, if I was going to a brothel just to be around him. 'Fuck me.'

-X-

Paola just happen to be the Madame of La Rosa Colta; a brothel in the middle of Florence. I had not yet had time to explore Florence fully yet, so I nearly got lost while trying to follow Giovanni. But I was right in thinking that you couldn't miss it, the brothel that is. The brothel was in the middle of the city, decorated by lots of red ribbon all over the large building. I couldn't pronounce the name of it though; with my own tongue, my strict Italian was still a bit...sluggish. I'd have Leo give me more lessons later.

It took us a few minutes to get there but when we did, the girl; Claria, who was the prostate we saved, lead us inside; where I was ambushed by many scantily clad women. They were all older than me, in fact. I would have freaked out, had Giovanni not been shoulder to shoulder with me; there was no way I was going to start going hysterical around the freaking Master of Assassins. What would he think? This is when said woman; Madame Paola came up to Giovanni and hugged him. But not the kinda hug I would have expected her running a brothel and all. It was more like a hug from a daughter. I guessed that was the kind of relation they had. 'If only I had Google I could find out why.' I thought as my hands itched to touch a keyboard again.

"Grazie Giovanni; for saving one of my girls." Paola said, thankful, as she parted with Giovanni and smiled at him. There was a spark between the two, a good friendship formed between the family ties of Assassins. It reminded me of the way things were back at the Denver base. My dad wasn't my only family there; we were all family, even if we weren't related by blood.

Giovanni smiled back at her and chuckled, he then slipped his hood off of his head, revealing more of his facial features. "It was not I who saved her." He explained; that is when Giovanni side stepped and waved over to me, I had started to hide behind the man as he spoke to Paola, now I was out in the open. "It was this ragazzo. You should be thanking him." He informed her; suddenly she got a twinkling in her eyes as she looked at me. Unfortunately, I knew that look. I gulped as she gave me said look. Being disguised as a guy was just getting harder every day. If I valued my peace I would think of something...and quick!

I bowed politely to Paola as she came toward me. The other girls seemed to leave the room as she did. Something smelled fishy here. "Signorina, I was just doing my duty as a-" I was caught off suddenly as I tried to distract the deranged Madame of a brothel. All I could think was; 'Don't fuck me, don't!'

"Are you an Assassin as well?" She asked as she touched my shoulder. I gaped at her; Giovanni gave her a surprised look. He was not expecting her to be so blunt apparently. I had to think of how to answer that question. Really, I didn't know if I could classify myself as an Assassin anymore, but I was trained as one. So I supposed I was, if anything I was at one time.

"Si, signorina, that I am, or at least I was trained to be one." I answered truthfully, knowing better than to lie to an Assassin, who was trained to be a human lie detector. I stood straight up again. Paola could only smile as I answered honestly to her. Honesty was very welcome among the Assassin Order, even if said honesty means speaking your mind and getting chased around by the cops. Yeah, I said it straight to one of their faces once. 'Fuck 'da police.' I couldn't stop laughing; my dad didn't think it was so funny though.

"A trained Assassin without a Maestro or a blade; a rare find indeed." The Madame commented to Giovanni, who nodded in agreement. The two shared glances, thoughts not shared verbally but mentally between each other. Years of experience with certain people allow you to do this, but no, they were not telepathic. That's just stupid! Now I understood why the other girls had been sent out, they must have planning to talk business. Assassin business; where only Assassins were allowed to listen in.

"Agreed Paola," Giovanni nodded to the Madame, finally putting in input with words. "But I must admit you are well trained." The Master Assassin paused, looking at me as he did. He analyzed me from head to toe, appraising me and my skill and form. "You lack thought in your movement however. It seems your fighting is purely reflexive. Which is impressive, si, but still…." Giovanni's boots clicked on the floor of the brothel as he came up to me, face to face. "It was a very reckless move you made, trying to protect your amico with nothing but your fists." He whispered in my ear as he stood shoulder to shoulder with me again. I gave him a surprised look and he merely smiled at me.

"How have you come to have no Maestro, ragazzo?" Paola asked after Giovanni pats my shoulders before circling me, still looking over my form. Apparently he thought I being with Leo was a secret, and it was. So I had to remember to thank him later for keeping it that way. If anyone was to know, then surely Leo would be put in danger. Although I had to admit, being under two older Assassin's scrutiny was a bit nerve racking. Luckily; I thought quickly under pressure.

"My padre taught me to be an Assassin-...," I paused, adding in suspense and a sigh. "Before he decided to disown me and leave me to the streets. He did so after my madre became ill and died; he told me I reminded him to much of her. I sharpened my skill as I aged on the streets, protecting myself." I lied with emotion, fake tears in my eyes, but keep in mind I am an extremely good liar. You get to be so after backstabbing about a hundred different factions. Although it seemed the two older Assassins had bought my story, rather easily. This was unsettling; I barely had to do anything to get them to believe me. Was it that they already trusted me?

Paola seemed to have pitied me for my saddening tale, as she hugged me with tears pricking her eyes, Giovanni just shook his head. This was oddly far too easy, was everyone in this time period soft? "It is a sad day indeed when a child is thrown to the wolves." The elder Assassin quoted as Paola continued to hug against me. I felt slightly disgusted over her pity but her embrace was warm, so I did not fight it.

"What does not kill me makes me stronger, signore." I argued putting strength into the words; I knew this fact was true. Through blood, sweat, and tears you find the real, hard, truth. I was not to be pitied; I was a rogue Assassin for Christ's sake! I killed people as a hobby! Truly though, I didn't know what to think anymore. I was tired and I wanted to rest, literally and metaphorically.

"Touche." Giovanni nodded in agreement. "At these words I will make you an offer. You have been trained to be an Assassin, but your training was not complete. I will help complete your training, if you allow me." Giovanni holds out his hand in question, requesting my devotion to the cause. While years ago I would have spat at that hand, now, I gladly accepted it.

Paola then added, "We could use all the help we can get, the Templars are getting far to close." She explained while she was hugging me from behind, her mouth near my ear. I didn't even flinch. Although I did notice she was a little taller than me. As I shook Giovanni's hand though she backed away from me and went to stand beside him, as an observer and witness to my indoctrination.

"I will accept your offer Giovanni, I am honored you would ask this of me." Me being trained by THE Giovanni Auditore, that was a once in a life time opportunity! I was over flowing with excitement at the idea of training again. The rush of adrenaline, the feel of true purpose; Giovanni had given all of that back to me, and more.

"Well then, you still have not told me your name, ragazzo." The Master Assassin reminded me, addressing the current problem. I stiffened slightly, wondering if it was wise to tell him, but then again, he told me his real name. My eyes looked past the Master in thought, and then dropped to his face again. Yes; I should respect his wishes. I just won't tell him my real name.

"Oh! Si! My name is Alonzo!" I stated excitedly, feigning a jump to my step, as if I hadn't been thinking earlier. I then bowed to him. "I am at your service Maestro." My heart itself jumped as I said that, I had a Master again! I felt myself becoming whole again after so long. I would have to repay Giovanni with my utter devotion as his new student.

At that Giovanni chuckled again, his deep baritone smooth and calm. It really reminded me of my own dad's laugh. "Well then, I will inform the others that I have a new apprendista and I will go look for the equipment you will be needing." He announced, as he began to stride smoothly to the door. "Walk with me Alonzo; we have a few things to discuss." Giovanni then stopped and opened the door for me. The Master Assassin's gaze was focused completely on me as I walked up to him. As his apprentice I was his new center of attention, this could be good or bad, it depended how hard of a teacher he was.

But, before I went through the opened door, I turned to Paola and bowed, "Grazie Madame, I look forward to seeing you again. Peace and safety." Then with that I found myself walking the dark streets of Florence, by Giovanni's side, silent as he spoke to me about the things I would need and about my training to come. Little did I know; that those many nights to come would be like this, peaceful, rigorous, and adventure filled, alongside my new teacher. I was, after all, an Assassin again.

-X-

Edited Ending Notes: Sorry, but I can't put up translations this time around. I will next time though! You can figure out everything everyone is saying if you use context clues though, otherwise it's nothing important. But if you want to you can just run it through Google translate, it's no big deal. But I'm really sorry for the inconvenience! So, I think this chapter is much better, no? If you read the original chapters you would remember that this used to be two separate chapters and that there is a lot of missing material. Well I thought that material was stupid and gave too much away! So here is the much better version!