26 - I Shall Rise

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August 1, 1503

Roma, Italy

The late afternoon air was surprisingly cool, Catherine couldn't help noticing from her spot by a series of columns holding up the covered walkway of the building. It stood to the right of the main courtyard of the Campidoglio and was as regal as the rest of it. Buildings lined opposite to her cover and adjacent, while stairs to her left led back down to the main roads of Roma. In the center was a fountain of innate design, and a magnificently sculpted statue of a man prostrating himself in an artistic way. He matched the rearing stallions by the stairway and was far more appealing than the general masses of noble men and women that either sauntered about or stood chatting idly amongst themselves. It was just a normal day for them after all, and they were happy to enjoy the small break in the summer's lingering heat.

The redheaded woman glanced to her husband, whose eyes had a familiar glimmer as he scanned the crowds. He was using his Vision from under his hood, and she envied him for it. She did not possess the gift, nor would she ever no matter how much she would wish for it, which was a shame. It was such a useful tool to have. At least, so long as the target was within sight. By his slight scowl and deep release of air through his nose, she knew their target hadn't arrived. It didn't help they didn't particularly know what this "Egidio Troche" looked like beyond a general description: portly, older, dark hair with gray coming in, and somewhat of a beard. Like all nobles, he wore fine clothing and complained—loudly and often.

"I admit, I'm a little surprised no one looks at us strangely in our gear," she chuckled, leaning a bit closer. She had her arm wrapped around his, giving them the look of a couple. Of course, they were, but when trying to remain conspicuous, it helped to look like it, too.

"It looks high class enough they won't think much. Hell, Cesare parades in his armor," Ezio chuckled, planting a quick kiss.

"His sister doesn't—prefers to parade her tits," she snickered, and he, too, laughed, though made a point to pinch her side.

"Now, now. Don't be mean. Besides, I wouldn't have minded seeing you in a dress. I think the last time was when you had Diana."

"Only because none of my tunics would fit," she huffed. "And, really, it's too troublesome to wear a dress with all our work."

He chuckled, "Oh, I know, I know. I just like to tease. That, and the only other time I saw you in one was our wedding, so, really, every time has left quite the impact."

"Oh, is that it, hmm?" she laughed lightly, giving him a look. He grinned impishly back, and she shook her head, "Alright, alright. I'll... think of some event to wear a dress for you at. If I can find one that won't suffocate me. I don't know how Claudia can stand hers. I want to breathe, thank-you."

"And thank God men don't have to worry about it," he smirked, and earned a pinch himself. She opened her mouth to speak but paused when he lifted the hand of the arm entwined with hers. He angled his head slightly to the left, and since he didn't look, she listened.

"Egidio's been asking for money again."

"What is it for this time?"

"Some proposal to diminish the frequency of public executions. He is also petitioning for an end to witness torture in the criminal courts."

"Like that is going to happen. He just wants the money to pay off his debts."

"Per usual. Ah, look, there he is. And seems trouble finally caught up to him."

Catherine and Ezio both looked down the opposite way where the two noblemen to their left had spoken. It took a moment or two, but then she spotted a more regal-looking man. He was older, overweight, and looked exactly like a noble. Around him was red, though, in the form of Borgia guards. Of course. There were three, although there could be more around the corner, and they all had their focus on Egidio.

"Well, looks like we found our senator," she hummed.

He sighed, "And trouble found him. Come on, let's make sure our asset stays alive."

"Oh, boy. They're manhandling him," Catherine scowled, breaking into a fast jog. Ezio was right beside her, and by the time the guards had began to assault the older man with blows to the gut, they were on them. Surprise worked well in their favor, and they both each had one guard down almost instantly. Her husband took out the next with a graceful charge, shoving his hidden blade into the man's chest and striking the heart. He tumbled back while she approached the Senator, who had stumbled back into he door behind him after being struck earlier.

"Senator Egidio Troche," Ezio spoke, a statement and not a question.

The man's shoulder slumped, "I do not owe you two money as well, do I?"

"No—actually, we're looking for the man you do owe money to: Cesare's banker," Catherine replied, earning a raised brow, then a scoff as he raised his arms in a mixture of disbelief and contempt.

"Ha. Cesare Borgia? And you are?"

"A friend of the family," her husband responded before she could, which was more civil than what she had to say.

"Cesare has a lot of friends these days. Unfortunately, I am not one of them.

"We can pay."

He lifted up his arms, "Well, is that not something? They fight guards and they give away money. Where are you been all my life?"

"Jokes aside, Senator," Catherine spoke up, motioning with her head towards a group of guards off in the distance. Thankfully, they hadn't seen them, "we should probably get you somewhere safe."

"I have a place... but you are going to have to protect me. The guards are not being very friendly, if you know what I mean," he half-chuckled, half-grimaced. "I can lead the way, but, please, stay close."

"Of course. We're right behind you," the redhead nodded, taking up point with the man, whom ventured towards the courtyard. He paused, though, noting a squad of guards in a corner, and made a point to go the farthest way around the fountain to take the stairs on the opposite side of the courtyard back down to the streets below.

"Someone really wants you dead," Ezio mused, noting the paleness of the Senator's face. The older man glanced back as they moved down an alleyway, towards back roads. A sigh escaped him, ripe with frustration.

"A few months ago my brother, Francesco, the Pope's Chamberlain—I know, I know, do not get me started—He told me of Cesare's plans for Romagna. I wrote to the ambassador of Venezia, warning him. One of my letters must have been intercepted."

"Then you are an enemy of his, too?" Catherine mused, and while the man didn't say yes, he didn't shake his head, either. "I understand. If it eases your mind, we both are his enemies."

"That I could already tell," Egidio chuckled. He paused as guards appeared, so they waited for a moment until they moved out of sight. The older man shook his head as he went onwards once more. "The Senate has nothing to do these days; the Borgia have taken all the power. You know what it is like to not have a fuck to do? It changes a man. I admit I have been gambling, drinking—"

"—and whoring," Ezio added, wry smirk hidden under his cowl.

"Oh, you are good, Sir. Was it the perfume on my sleeve?"

"Something like that," he replied, and this time Catherine smirked, barely withholding a snicker. They came to a stop in an alleyway, where the Senator briefly leaned against a wall to pant lightly. He'd been going at a slight jog after the first group of guards they found, and unlike the two Assassins, he was not made for moving so much. However, it was not safe, and when they made note of it—or, rather, the guards further down the alley—he sighed and pushed onwards.

"Senators used to petition about real issues like unlawful cruelty, abandoned children, you know. Now we write up legislation on the appropriate width of women's sleeves," he scoffed.

"Oh, no, mustn't show off any forearm, lest we cause you poor, feeble men to lose all control of your cocks, right?" Catherine snorted, and she was only a little more than amused when he gave her a bit of a huff. "I jest, although, I can guarantee my attire will most likely never prove appropriate. But, I suppose that's not a concern—after all, you're not like them are you?"

"Oh, no, no, he raises money for false causes to pay back his gambling debts," Ezio added with a hum, and the Senator stopped in his gate to turn around to face them.

He scowled, obviously offended by their accusations, "False causes! I am interested in pursuing them as soon as I am financially able to do so. You ever look at a grave and think: 'This is the most significant thing I will ever do'?"

"Yes—more than you know," Catherine replied, her smile sadder than she wanted, and she could see Egidio's face visibly falter. An understanding replaced his annoyance.

"Forgive me, you did risk your life earlier and still do so now. I suppose I am simply unused to such... situations."

"Don't worry about, Senator... Ah, Catherine, look," Ezio rumbled, motioning towards a set of guards that patrolled on high. They were out of sight now but they might be spotted.

She followed his eyes, then spotted a sight for sore eyes, "No worries. I see some of ours. Senator, stay close to my husband."

"Of course—wait... husband? She is your wife?" he guffawed as she trotted towards the gaggle of young woman. She didn't miss Ezio's chuckle and rather proud "yes", bringing a smile to her face as she pulled a small coin pouch from her belt. The nearest courtesan saw and was smooth in their transition to her side. A quick slight of the hand, and the coin was exchanged.

"See the guards? Make sure they don't see us, and tell Claudia the coin comes with love," she chuckled, and the young woman laughed before nodding and heading up the stairs. Giggles, coos, and proclamations of ardor soon echoed over the crowd, and the redhead motion for Ezio to come forward. With the plan in motion, they were left unmolested.

"We are not far," Egidio spoke up as they rounded another corner, then another. A few more guards barred their way, but another courtesan group was not far. Again, they proved useful, and the Senator jogged the rest of the way to an intricate iron-bar gate, barring the way into a small courtyard of an ornate home. There the Senator finally relaxed, panting lightly, and let his shoulders and head hang low. "Fucking letters. I should never have sent them to the ambassador. Now Cesare will murder me. Bah. Well, welcome to the home of my brother, Francesco. Thank God he is not here; we have not talked since he found out about the letters. Er—what did you want again?"

"Cesare's banker," Ezio stressed, and the man nodded.

"Right. I need to arrive with the money. Problem is, there is no money."

"Wait—you're meeting the Banker? Where? When?" the redhead pressed, stepping forward.

"I never know until I am there. I go to one of three places. Then his friends take me to him."

"Tsk. Of course that's how they do it," she groaned, rolling her eyes. "Well, we can't do anything without the money. You didn't lose the pouch this time did you?"

Her husband pouted, "That was one time in Venezia, and it was Rosa. Of course I have it."

"You still got your money stolen."

"Wait—what?" Egidio exclaimed just before Ezio pulled a coin purse off his belt and tossed it to him. His eyes went wide as he felt the massive amount of coin within, the red sack heavy in his grasp. "I cannot believe you would just do this! I had not dared to hope, and yet, here it is—in my hands!"

"There is a condition," Ezio replied, and the man gave him a look.

"I knew it."

"Just keep an eye on the politics of the city. I want you to report back to Maria at the Rosa in Fore about targets who are helping the Borgia."

"And what?" he scoffed, waving his hands. "You will make them disappear? Bah, I will be right back. I need to gather a chest to put the money in—for show, if you will. Just wait here."

Catherine waited until he was inside before letting out a deep breath of air, "Holy shit, we're actually getting good on a lead... I'm not sure if I'm excited or worried... or just more shocked the Senator didn't find it totally mind boggling I'm a woman doing this."

"Ha! I think he was more shocked we were married. I imagine he simply feels more indebted than perplexed; he's not a complete fool, just perhaps with his coin. Shame not all are so civil. But I am glad we have this lead. And, with luck, he will keep his word and report to Mother. We could use more leads where Machiavelli cannot provide them."

"That's for sure... although, I worry it might bring trouble. I guess good thing Federico is there," she hummed, rubbing her chin thoughtfully. "Hnn... I might have to stay back some on this one—you can get a lot closer than I can as a man... God, that's so annoying. Probably the worst bit about being in the past. A woman dressed in pants gets noticed."

He laughed lightly, "Not that it ever stopped you. They always underestimate you still, too. So, I'd say it works in your favor. But—ah. Here he is. You are ready, Senator?"

"Yes, yes. My piece of shit brother may hate me, but he is still family. Bah. Okay, we go."

"We'll take to the roofs, just to be safe. Don't worry, though—we'll be watching over you," Ezio replied, and while the older man didn't like it, he also didn't argue. The two Assassins said no more as they scrambled to the rooftops—the Senator made an audible curse of surprise—and then waited and watched as their new comrade ventured through the streets.

The meeting place, thankfully, wasn't far, and they ended up on the roof of a decent-sized abode with a courtyard below. The roof was designed in a square shape with an opening done in the same way, making it easy to gaze down at Egidio, whom was accompanied by Borgia Captains. The conversation was civil enough despite beginning with a threat, and the trio of men were on their way. Catherine exchanged a look with Ezio, waiting a few seconds before tailing the men across the roofs. It was a much longer, and somewhat arduous journey to remain out of sight—lengthy jumps and jogs, coupled with archers that were eliminated—but it finally came to an end in, perhaps, the largest open area of all of Roma. At its heart was the Pantheon, and, as it so happened, it was to the massive building that the two Captains led Egidio.

Catherine groaned, "Of course it's in the Pantheon... dammit, we're going to have to climb up that, aren't we?"

"I've done it before—it's not that bad. There's an opening at the top I can slip through... ah, you can watch the guards at the front, though. Look, they have our new friend," Ezio replied, gesturing as he made towards the buildings along the side of the Pantheon.

"Damn, you're right... Okay, so, I'll make sure our new ally doesn't die, and you go take out the guy who just took the money. Looks like he's alone, and he's probably our best bet to get to the Banker. Only problem is getting back out."

"Don't worry, I have a plan."

She quirked a brow, "Let me guess: you're going to take his place?"

"Wouldn't be the first time," he smirkedback.

"It's Venezia all over again."

He chuckled, "Yes, indeed... but that means you'll need to tail me—watch my back."

"Naturally. I don't like having you go on your own like this, but... it's our only option, isn't it?"

"Come now, it's me. I can handle it. But I love that you worry," he purred, pausing to steal a quick kiss. "Just be ready for anything—and for the Banker. I expect I will be taken straight to him and I don't know what to expect.... But, Catherine... if you... should you feel... off..."

"I'll be fine—I won't leave you on your own... or at the very least I'll make sure you have back up, but... I feel... fine, truthfully," she smiled, touching his arm gently.

"Alright. I trust you. Now, let's go. We need to make sure to get him before they move on, and I still have to take off some of my armor."

No more was said as they vaulted from the rooftops to the Pantheon's wall, catching grips and clambering to the top. As Ezio said, a hole was there, with a clear view below to the beautiful ornaments within the structure. The lone guard was there with the money, too, and her husband moved quickly, discarding what outward gear he could to give to Catherine, and then slipped inside, using his honed skills to quickly, but carefully, work his way downward. Despite his claims, Catherine fretted some as she watched him go, and fretted still as she ventured closer to the entryway, and moving down the wall enough to remain hidden, but see where the Senator was. Thus far, he seemed alright, and no weapons were drawn, despite his fearful state.

So far so good.

She knew her husband hadn't failed when no commotion came up, and had to chuckle a little at the sight of him in Captain's gear. It suited him, to some extent, and helped him stand out. That, in turn, made it easier for her to keep an eye on things as Egidio was spared by Ezio's quick thinking and he headed off with his contingent of guards. He was, to her amusement, put in the lead, and she hoped he would figure it out. If not, then she was ready to take out the nearest guard as she followed by roof. It wouldn't be ideal, but they'd figure out where to go, or, if she was lucky, the other guards would have him escape to the Banker or something, thinking she was attacking them all—Ezio included. Whatever the case, she was prepared, and, as she came to notice, her mind was at ease.

It was a subtle note, but any time it flickered into the forefront of her mind, she was confident she was herself. There were no whispers; no bloodlust. She was Catherine Auditore, the girl from the future and now a part of the past. Wife to an adoring husband, and mother to two, wonderful children.

She was herself.

The confidence fueled her as she scoured across the rooftops, leaping from one to the other, always keeping her husband in sight. For technically being lost, he did a good job of listening to his "allies" and taking the correct route with only minor mistakes. She was proud to call him her husband, and only hoped things would go smoothly—or at least more smoothly than the next step of her trek.

It had taken the rest of the evening by the time they came to their destination, marked by the large contingent of heavily armored guards across a bridge that led to a section of the city far from the center, but not part of the poor district either. Ezio had no problems crossing the final obstacle with his disguise, but Catherine had to work her way further down from the bridge to cross the river in long leaps and clambering hands to grab ledges, so she didn't fall into the water. She was able to glance at her incoming trouble and groaned silently. There were a lot of guards—enough to where she wasn't sure she could get by unnoticed, especially not dressed as she was. Sure, the Borgia tended to underestimate her being a woman, but she was trying to be invisible. They were on high alert, which meant she would stand out like a sore thumb. Her only respite was that she could see plenty of courtesans—most of which, if not all, should be Claudia's girls.

"Hey!" she called in a hushed whisper,

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