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~*II*~
Mi Dispiace Signora, But I Think I Threw That Purse a Little Too Hard
Subsequently setting himself on the path he had suddenly chosen, Federico found it truly wasn't difficult to trail the enigmatic figure. Even with the strange piece of garment having been removed from her immediate person and tucked under her arm, she still stood out like a sore thumb no thanks to her strangely streaked hair. And he wasn't the only one to notice, since other bystanders normally hurrying home, were stopping with pinched looks and making not-so-subtle comments that expressed their scandalized shock and utter distaste.
Why? Oh probably because, like him, they had never seen such things before.
Not her bizarre robe, not the dark boots that looked too thick and bulky for the cobblestone streets of Florence, and especially not thosedark-colored trousers that shouldn't even be that body forming on a woman in the first place. He shouldn't be interested. Absolutely not in the slightest, since he had other matters to attend to- but dammit he couldn't help it. Everything with this woman was new to him. The way she dressed and acted. The way she talked, held herself, Hell even the way she walked was totally unalike anything he was introduced to. And how she did it with such confidence too!
Thinking on it, the closest comparisons he had at hand to this brazen lady were the two women in his family. Although even the Auditore matriarch followed the guidelines set out by their own society and would have probably clucked her tongue at the lack of form. Not to mention Claudia would probably snipe about the woman being so unladylike. (Which, in a way was hypocritical, but that was another subject for another time.)
Yet, either unaware of the attention she was acquiring, or wholly ignoring the stares and whispers as she went, this woman was doing it all the same. Bianca's purse bounced off his hip as he followed, gently brushing past gawking spectators. It was rather sad to say, he didn't have to strain his keener hearing to catch some of the more stunned remarks as he passed:
"Is she…?
"…. wearing men's clothes..?"
"Who in their right minds let her out like that…?"
"Disgraceful."
On that last note, Federico found himself having to bite his tongue to keep his opinion from being expressed. There was no need to cause more trouble today than it was actually worth. However that did not mean he liked it in the slightest. Surely you all have better things to do than to construct a running commentary on a woman you've never met before? Of course, at risk of being accused a hypocrite, he would not lie and say he did not do it too. He did it earlier as a matter of fact, but unlike the criticizing populace before him, he didn't damn her for such things, for realistically, did it actually matter what one wore? It frankly made him astounded that such pettiness existed in the world. For all the work his father, uncle, and forefathers did, seemingly little had actually changed for the greater good. But then again, glancing around the common people with a contemplative brow; all the sacrifices made over the years granted these petty people the choice to be so.
He was drawn back into reality with a sucked in breath, fighting the urge to growl a pained string of insults. Such was the price of freedom of choice apparently, for one such critical gawker managed to step on his foot not just once but twice. And it did not take an expert to realize the shoes hidden under the pale red gown were a pair of those exotic zoccoli that made women taller than they actually were. Something he found out quite a few times, disappointingly enough. Looking back now, one would think it would be quite obvious they were wearing something ungodly if it meant they couldn't walk on their own.
"Pardon me," he stated with forced courtesy to the startled noblewoman, ignoring his smarting appendage despite the slight limp he now had as he finally succeeded in getting out of the tangled snarl that was the Florentine mob- probably making their way back home from the markets. Luckily it seemed to be tapering off into smaller contingents now, enough where he could actually breathe somewhat fresh air.
Despite Federico's blending into the crowd though- just like how father taught him- every now and then his quarry would briefly glance back with a pinched brow. Or stop at a stall and act like she was perusing through the wares, when in reality her eyes were always roving. He had nearly blown his cover the first time he saw her do it, but thankfully at the last minute ducked behind some crates while keeping an ear out for curse-laden accusations. None ever came though and as a result of his diving under cover, he almost lost her if it weren't for the fact she paused to adjust the bag at her side. Fast forward some, and the eldest born now knew she hadn't actually seen him, since he never witnessed her grey eyes truly locking onto him. He couldn't necessarily explain the sensation- yet he just knew she was in knowledge of being trailed, however didn't know just exactly who the pursuer was.
Which was… quite peculiar to say the least if he said so himself Most were too focused on their own two feet to notice their surroundings or fellow people, much less someone following them. At least that was the impression he received from his lessons out in the city with father.
To see such careful attention though, as he slipped into another group without her even batting an eye, from a woman of all things- he had to ask himself, again, just who was she? Knowing the difference between frayed and torn purse strings? Only someone experienced with thieving would have knowledge of such things. So… did that mean she was one? Or formerly? She had spoken about getting away with the deed if she had done it. But that could have just been a joke. Or maybe his earlier assessment was true and she had actually hit her head, and now he was just following a deluded woman.
Wouldn't that just be his luck?
While not having many answers to his building throng of questions, he did distinguish one thing about the strange woman; she was quite out of her element. Or at least… it seemed that way. Along with her usual stopping to sneak a glance behind, every few meters she would stop, look around with a possible frown on her angular face, (he could not really tell, given her back was to him during this entire process), and then afterwards resume her brisk pace just to do it all over again on the next block.
If he did not know any better, after seeing this go on for a while, these were most certainly the telltale signs of someone lost, and after the rather memorable encounter earlier it was a rather amusing notion.
"Hey!"
Federico blinked at both the voice and sudden halting of his forward motion in the form of a bump. This resulted in the seemingly earth-shattering sound of breaking wood, being followed by whatever valuables were stored within. His hurried apology to the rapidly reddening man was immediately drowned out by his curse laden shouting that started attracting far too much attention from the surrounding crowd. He felt exposed- naked even since so many piercing eyes were looking their way. He just hoped that this was the extent of his punishments for not paying enough attention, as he made himself scarce to evade the brunt of the verbal, and possibly soon to be physical, lashing.
As he managed to slip into another moving group, being quick, he cast a look around for his prey to check her progress. The last he had seen of her, was when she was starting to cross the threshold that marked the entrance of the Piazza del Signoria. He came to a grinding halt however, at finding her red-streaked hair nowhere in immediate sight.
Fearing the worst, he couldn't help but frown as he did another scan of the mingled crowd; on the tiniest chance he missed the woman during the first precursory glance. However after coming across a similar result, he let out the not so silent curse he had been holding back since running into the man earlier. "Fool!"Federico berated himself with a hiss as he smacked a hand to his face, dragging it down. Thanks to his previous entanglement with the box carrier, it seemed rather likely he had botched the one chance he had at talking to this woman just a bit more, since what are the chances that he would be able to find her again? And thinking about it, if he ran into her again, he needed to get a name. For it was starting to get rather old referring to her as "the mysterious woman with red streaks in her hair."
All was not lost however- he still had one trick up his sleeve; and for what felt like the thousandth time, Federico was extremely thankful for his ability. It most certainly helped in situations similar to his current predicament- whether it was trying to locate Ezio who thought himself so bloody clever in his hiding games, or a slippery woman he was too damn interested about for his own good.
If mother were here, she'd probably call it 'infatuation.'
After so many years of practice, he was proud to say it only took him an intense focus to descend into that eerie realm of greys and shapes that were interspersed with the occasional vibrant aura of blue or red. While it was alarming to see so much red- probably Pazzi underlings up to no good yet again- he was intent on finding that one bit of gold within the masses.
"Can I help you with something?"
It honestly hadn't dawned on him to look behind him, since his original skimming caught nothing out of interest besides an already closed merchant's shop leaning up against some leftover scaffolding. Reminiscing on the choice briefly, perhaps he should have taken a closer look.
But for now, there was a sense of grey-tinted vertigo as he whirled around, followed by bright gold painfully lancing his eyes. As a result he rapidly shook his head, temporarily blinded. When he opened his eyes again, his vision was luckily somewhat back to normal, although occasionally being peppered with lights that danced across his sight.
He had recognized that voice- and soon found the source of it leaning against one of the posts that supported the otherwise unstable looking scaffolding. He had the right mind to suggest she should move, but thought against it. She looked fairly annoyed, and certainly not at all approving he was here. No need to give her an invitation to be further irritated at him.
Thus he tried his best to look like he hadn't been startled, and that he was innocent of anything suspicious by pasting on an easy smile. "Ah yes…" What could he say to that? For once he actually found himself struggling for a witty comeback to that. The eldest Auditore could not seriously be having this issue right now. "Could I have your name?"
….Dio, he mentally smacked himself afterwards. Did he just pull his brother?!
In response she pursed her lips, before reaching behind her into the covered stall she had apparently jumped into to keep out of view- obviously his view to be precise. Smart. "Righttttt, she drawled. "How about no?"
It had been a long shot, but still he found himself pouting- an expression he quickly put away again when she turned back around slipping her bag back over her shoulder. "Why not?" It took all his willpower not to make that sound like a complaint, and apparently it still hadn't worked given the deadpan expression on her face.
She placed her odd robe on one hip while the other was occupied by her hand, an eyebrow rising in incredulity. "Uhm… I would think it obvious? I don't give my names to unnamed strangers and I barely met you just five minutes ago."
That was fair he supposed, although not quite the answer he desired. Still, he could roll with that, and in an undoubtedly exaggerated motion he smacked a hand to his head as if he had forgotten something-in this case his name. "Bah forgive my lack of manners signora! I am Federico Auditore da Firenze." He managed as not to rush his form as he bowed, afterwards taking her hand to kiss it. He was faintly surprised to find it so calloused. An oddity amongst noble women to be sure.
"Charmed," she politely replied, even though her eyes did not approve of such a greeting. Much to her credit though, she didn't yank her hand out of his grasp when he loosened his hold on it. Maybe she wasn't a noblewoman, but she looked to have some courtesy. Some. Not much. Especially given her response. "Quite the mouthful though. I hope you honestly don't expect me to say all that?"
He could not for the life of him put his finger on it, but something in her grey eyes made him stifle the urge to respond with something less than appropriate, yet at the same time risk the consequences and do it anyway. "Just Federico is fine, miss-?" He left that last bit open for her to finish. Sadly, it failed as evidenced by her following laugh. "Okay, your name is a start yes, but that still doesn't mean you're getting mine quite yet."
This time he did let his pout show. There must have been something else to all of this if she was continuing to be adamant about it. "Have I given you a reason to mistrust me so?"
He watched as a dry smile crept across her lips, "Oh besides cutting a lady's purse, then preceding to clonk me on top of the head with it, followed by stalking me?" Her face deadpanned again. "No. Not at all."
"I… what?" Federico sputtered in a dumbfounded Ezio-like manner, not sure if he heard that right. Yet... now that she mentioned it, he had noticed her rubbing a particular spot on the back of her head a great many times the last few minutes. So… in a way he was right. She had hit her head. And apparently by his hand. He mentally winced at that tidbit- for in truth he hadn't bothered to look before tossing the laced accessory into the alley.
But he wasn't given much of a stretch to apologize for both that and the trailing, for she sent the purse at his side a very pointed look. "Speaking of- weren't you supposed to give that back to the poor woman?"
"And if she truly wishes to have it back, she will wait. If not, she has plenty more of coin to choose from out of her father's coffers." He shrugged; slightly uncaring about the former prospects he had hope for. Even after having gone through the effort of 'retrieving' the woman's coin purse to begin with.
Surprisingly.
Somehow unsurprisingly, an expected cynical smile distorted her lips. "Quite the gentleman aren't you?" As sharp as the jab was, he still pasted his most courtly smile. Obviously he had been taught manners at his mother's behest, especially when it came to socializing with women- why he was such a favorite compared to his baby brother afterall- but that did not mean he would back down from a clearly declared challenge. So he had no doubt there was a mischievous gleam to his own eyes as he countered, purposely failing at hiding his own humor. "Since I am willing to help a lost unnamed lady find her way, I fancy to think so."
Immediately her expression soured as she hotly expressed her distaste to such a statement, "I am not lost." He amusingly noted there was a faint flush on her cheeks despite the disapproving scowl and furrowed brows. Either from embarrassment or indignation, it was rather cute he certainly had to admit. Entertained, he wordlessly crossed his arms, a single brow rising in an 'oh really' manner. Honestly. Did she genuinely expect him to believe such words?
Allegedly she had, for the annoyed expression never left her face as she too crossed her arms in an unspoken defiance. "I'm not," she insisted before gesturing around with a hand. "I've been here before, I'm sure of it-." She trailed off, flinty eyes narrowing, obviously irritated that the amusement had not faded from his eyes. He suddenly found himself cross-eyed when she stabbed a finger in his face. "Don't give me that look Mister Whatever-Your-Last-Name-Was-."
"Auditore," he interjected rather unfazed by the digit trying to bury itself in his nose; the entertained smile that was plastered on his face growing, despite what seemed like temptation to strangle him displaying across her features.
And he was delighted to see she didn't miss a step herself, throwing a very nasty look as she dropped her hand. "-yes that. And I'll have you know I am quite aware of where I am-." She faltered again when she saw he was not buying it. However, whatever pride she still possessed refused to admit he was in the right. So it was only understandable they had a staring contest for all of five seconds before her shoulders slumped. "Fine… maybe I am lost." She crossed her arms, glaring burning holes at him. A proud woman to the end it appeared. "You can wipe that smirk off your lips now Federico."
Nevertheless, he couldn't help it. Honestly. She was a feisty vixen and her veiled threat as she said his name was nothing short of adorable.
However despite the urge of further teasing and poking this woman to see how she would react, Federico decided to be merciful just this one time. They both knew he had won this round. No point rubbing it in further- even if it was tempting. Alternatively, he put on his most sympathetic look while spreading his hands out in what he hoped was a placating gesture. "It is nothing to be ashamed about signora. It happens to even the best of us."
When he saw she wasn't going to react outside of an indignant huff, (at least right away), he continued. "Where are you trying to go? Who knows- I could direct you to it." He sincerely hoped she wasn't one of the few women who mistook his sincerity as mockery. Yes, he would be the first to admit he liked to tease. But when it came to actually helping those in need? Federico was always genuine with his offered help. And this woman, fiery temper aside, was absolutely no exception. He just hoped his earlier comments hadn't tainted her impression of him, making her take his offered assistance the wrong way.
So it was with great relief when the sharp glance she had fixed him with softened to an apprehensive eyeing. He knew she didn't necessarily trust him, and really, why would she? He had- ah, what was the word she had used again? Ah right, stalked. "…Alright." She slowly said, stiff shoulders loosening up some giving her a far more relaxed look. "I guess you could help me by telling me what city this is?"
That made him pause, an eyebrow rising. She wasn't even aware of where she was? He didn't even think before blurting, "You mean to tell me you have never been to Florence before?"
Now it was her turn to stare, any fire or sassy remark having died as she studied him with an incredulous expression. She had apparently not been expecting such an answer given how she paled. "Florence? As in... Italy?" She slowly asked in disbelief.
Federico nodded slowly, wondering if something was the matter. "Yes." Really, what other Florence was there?
Her eyebrows furrowed as she brushed a strand of dark hair behind an ear. "Huh, that… explains a lot then." Briefly he caught a glimpse of something dark on her neck, but it disappeared from view as the woman's hair fell back against her neck. A birthmark maybe?"To answer your earlier question…" He was drawn back to the conversation at hand when she started talking again. "Quite the opposite actually, I have been to Florence before. Twice."
She looked around, eyebrows drawn in somewhat recognition. "The last time was little over three years ago. So it was quite recently- yet…" A dubious frown formed on her lips. "It seems to have changed since then." Before he could comment, her eyes went heavenwards, and she looked somewhat taken back, a sharp intake of breath following suit. "I especially don't remember Il Duomo looking so… new."
Becoming more and more confused the more she spoke, Federico followed her gaze towards the east, where indeed the magnificent cathedral that was the Santa Maria del Fiore stood. 'Baffled' did not at all explain what he was feeling right now. 'New'? How? It was a little over forty years old now. How could it suddenly look newer now than the last she had been was three years ago…?
He turned back around only to find that the woman had started pacing, again muttering to herself. He wondered if this was a common thing for her. Or was it just a result of her getting hit in the head?
"…Suppose it makes sense that Greg and Carol would roofie my drink and drop me off in bloody fucking Italy. Amidst Renaissance Faire weekend of all things!" There was a pause which had her looking around with a suspicious eye before resuming her short path back and forth. "Bah, a rather unfair plan of revenge. Whatever, they're bloody lucky I found someone who spoke English even though he's kind of no help whatsoever-."
It was obvious he was not supposed to hear any of this half crazed muttering, so of course he was confused by ever other word that came out of her mouth. 'Renaissance Faire'? What was that? Him speaking English- since when? What was she even going on about? Wisely though, he kept quiet, acting as if he was not hearing a single word of this in spite of the desire to ask if she was well again. By this point he was very much convinced that this lady, despite what she said earlier, had hit her head on something much harder than a thrown coin purse.
What else would explain this erratic behavior?
"-Fucking bastards better pray I'm in a better mood when I get out of here. If I can that is." She paused midway in her tangent, suddenly looking sheepish as she refocused on him. Finally remembered I was here did you? He mused keeping his expression impassive just so he would not give her a hint he had actually heard of all that... whatever that was.
She rubbed the back of her head, appearing embarrassed if not unsure about what to say next. "…just… out of curiosity- do you by any chance have a phone? I need to make a call."
He was never given an opportunity to reply, or even ask what a 'phone' was, before she waved her hands to stop him, looking embarrassed in the process. "Shit never mind that, I couldn't ask of you to break out of character. Silly me let's just go with a better question- what is today's date?"
"December twenty-seventh," Federico replied without hesitation, pushing aside his lingering doubts and confusion. However he was still more than tempted to ask what a phone was, or why she thought he was acting.
But it wasn't his place though, thus he stayed mum.
He would have been lying though if he said it didn't bring him somewhat satisfaction to see a smile brighten her face slightly, even if it was of relief. It honestly was none of his business what was going on at the moment, whatever the woman's strife may be. He just found himself wishing she would smile more often, for he found her far more endearing that way.
"Yeah good... good only been a day went by." She ran a hand through her hair again, letting out a short laugh. "Same year too?"
He shared her humor with a chuckle, shrugging in the process. "From my understanding, yes, it's still 1476."
Federico expected a laugh or another amused smile, but instead he acquired a rather puzzled face from the still nameless woman. And… something else that he had not been expecting with that answer.
Unease.
He suddenly worried if perhaps he had said or did something wrong. He was about to ask what, and how he could help when a loud commotion made itself known behind them. Whooping, and hollering that sounded familiar and it made him stiffen as he went to glance over his shoulder. How he wished he wasn't right…
Pazzi.
Federico couldn't help but curl a lip in disgust as he watched them caper across the square, obviously in quite the mood given how they were shoving each other playfully and all. One would think with the serious allegations against Francesco, they'd be more willing to stay out of the public's view until it blew over. But of course not- that would have been far too easy. For in reality, it seemed to have given the little shit and his lackeys all the more reason to slander his family's name further.
Oh there were a great many names he could use to describe Vieri de'Pazzi, and none of them were remotely suitable in the presence of such company he was currently graced with.
…or at least had been graced with, he discovered when he turned back around to find no such woman in sight. Huh- quite the slippery woman wasn't she? Still recovering from the headache caused by the hiccup earlier, Federico only did a cursory scan and found no sign whatsoever.
He now found himself torn between two choices- investigate what was going on or to go after the woman who had disappeared suddenly. She had looked extremely terrified and he found himself wishing to help... But then again if the Pazzi were converging…
With a reluctant sigh, he let her be, turning the direction where the unruly group had disappeared. Whoever she was, and whatever the issue she had, he had a hunch she could handle it, shortness aside. For now though, he set that aside in favor to focus at the task at hand; there was only one reason such a large group would form, and he had to sigh in mock exasperation as he followed after, picking up the pace as not to lose them, despite having the suspicion about where they were heading.
On the way he managed to find Bianca, surprisingly still waiting for him to return. No longer in the mood he had been in before running into the other mysterious lady, he dropped the purse in her hands and bid her the politest goodbye before departing again.
Federico was not even surprised to find the end result a little while later- Ezio and some of their mutual friends brawling with Vieri and his pawns. Another sigh escaped him in the process of shaking his head, a quirk to his lips as he moved to enter the fray alongside his sibling. Not without asking though…
"What did you do now baby brother?"
~*End*~

Description
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~*II*~
Mi Dispiace Signora, But I Think I Threw That Purse a Little Too Hard
Subsequently setting himself on the path he had suddenly chosen, Federico found it truly wasn't difficult to trail the enigmatic figure. Even with the strange piece of garment having been removed from her immediate person and tucked under her arm, she still stood out like a sore thumb no thanks to her strangely streaked hair. And he wasn't the only one to notice, since other bystanders normally hurrying home, were stopping with pinched looks and making not-so-subtle comments that expressed their scandalized shock and utter distaste.
Why? Oh probably because, like him, they had never seen such things before.
Not her bizarre robe, not the dark boots that looked too thick and bulky for the cobblestone streets of Florence, and especially not thosedark-colored trousers that shouldn't even be that body forming on a woman in the first place. He shouldn't be interested. Absolutely not in the slightest, since he had other matters to attend to- but dammit he couldn't help it. Everything with this woman was new to him. The way she dressed and acted. The way she talked, held herself, Hell even the way she walked was totally unalike anything he was introduced to. And how she did it with such confidence too!
Thinking on it, the closest comparisons he had at hand to this brazen lady were the two women in his family. Although even the Auditore matriarch followed the guidelines set out by their own society and would have probably clucked her tongue at the lack of form. Not to mention Claudia would probably snipe about the woman being so unladylike. (Which, in a way was hypocritical, but that was another subject for another time.)
Yet, either unaware of the attention she was acquiring, or wholly ignoring the stares and whispers as she went, this woman was doing it all the same. Bianca's purse bounced off his hip as he followed, gently brushing past gawking spectators. It was rather sad to say, he didn't have to strain his keener hearing to catch some of the more stunned remarks as he passed:
"Is she…?
"…. wearing men's clothes..?"
"Who in their right minds let her out like that…?"
"Disgraceful."
On that last note, Federico found himself having to bite his tongue to keep his opinion from being expressed. There was no need to cause more trouble today than it was actually worth. However that did not mean he liked it in the slightest. Surely you all have better things to do than to construct a running commentary on a woman you've never met before? Of course, at risk of being accused a hypocrite, he would not lie and say he did not do it too. He did it earlier as a matter of fact, but unlike the criticizing populace before him, he didn't damn her for such things, for realistically, did it actually matter what one wore? It frankly made him astounded that such pettiness existed in the world. For all the work his father, uncle, and forefathers did, seemingly little had actually changed for the greater good. But then again, glancing around the common people with a contemplative brow; all the sacrifices made over the years granted these petty people the choice to be so.
He was drawn back into reality with a sucked in breath, fighting the urge to growl a pained string of insults. Such was the price of freedom of choice apparently, for one such critical gawker managed to step on his foot not just once but twice. And it did not take an expert to realize the shoes hidden under the pale red gown were a pair of those exotic zoccoli that made women taller than they actually were. Something he found out quite a few times, disappointingly enough. Looking back now, one would think it would be quite obvious they were wearing something ungodly if it meant they couldn't walk on their own.
"Pardon me," he stated with forced courtesy to the startled noblewoman, ignoring his smarting appendage despite the slight limp he now had as he finally succeeded in getting out of the tangled snarl that was the Florentine mob- probably making their way back home from the markets. Luckily it seemed to be tapering off into smaller contingents now, enough where he could actually breathe somewhat fresh air.
Despite Federico's blending into the crowd though- just like how father taught him- every now and then his quarry would briefly glance back with a pinched brow. Or stop at a stall and act like she was perusing through the wares, when in reality her eyes were always roving. He had nearly blown his cover the first time he saw her do it, but thankfully at the last minute ducked behind some crates while keeping an ear out for curse-laden accusations. None ever came though and as a result of his diving under cover, he almost lost her if it weren't for the fact she paused to adjust the bag at her side. Fast forward some, and the eldest born now knew she hadn't actually seen him, since he never witnessed her grey eyes truly locking onto him. He couldn't necessarily explain the sensation- yet he just knew she was in knowledge of being trailed, however didn't know just exactly who the pursuer was.
Which was… quite peculiar to say the least if he said so himself Most were too focused on their own two feet to notice their surroundings or fellow people, much less someone following them. At least that was the impression he received from his lessons out in the city with father.
To see such careful attention though, as he slipped into another group without her even batting an eye, from a woman of all things- he had to ask himself, again, just who was she? Knowing the difference between frayed and torn purse strings? Only someone experienced with thieving would have knowledge of such things. So… did that mean she was one? Or formerly? She had spoken about getting away with the deed if she had done it. But that could have just been a joke. Or maybe his earlier assessment was true and she had actually hit her head, and now he was just following a deluded woman.
Wouldn't that just be his luck?
While not having many answers to his building throng of questions, he did distinguish one thing about the strange woman; she was quite out of her element. Or at least… it seemed that way. Along with her usual stopping to sneak a glance behind, every few meters she would stop, look around with a possible frown on her angular face, (he could not really tell, given her back was to him during this entire process), and then afterwards resume her brisk pace just to do it all over again on the next block.
If he did not know any better, after seeing this go on for a while, these were most certainly the telltale signs of someone lost, and after the rather memorable encounter earlier it was a rather amusing notion.
"Hey!"
Federico blinked at both the voice and sudden halting of his forward motion in the form of a bump. This resulted in the seemingly earth-shattering sound of breaking wood, being followed by whatever valuables were stored within. His hurried apology to the rapidly reddening man was immediately drowned out by his curse laden shouting that started attracting far too much attention from the surrounding crowd. He felt exposed- naked even since so many piercing eyes were looking their way. He just hoped that this was the extent of his punishments for not paying enough attention, as he made himself scarce to evade the brunt of the verbal, and possibly soon to be physical, lashing.
As he managed to slip into another moving group, being quick, he cast a look around for his prey to check her progress. The last he had seen of her, was when she was starting to cross the threshold that marked the entrance of the Piazza del Signoria. He came to a grinding halt however, at finding her red-streaked hair nowhere in immediate sight.
Fearing the worst, he couldn't help but frown as he did another scan of the mingled crowd; on the tiniest chance he missed the woman during the first precursory glance. However after coming across a similar result, he let out the not so silent curse he had been holding back since running into the man earlier. "Fool!"Federico berated himself with a hiss as he smacked a hand to his face, dragging it down. Thanks to his previous entanglement with the box carrier, it seemed rather likely he had botched the one chance he had at talking to this woman just a bit more, since what are the chances that he would be able to find her again? And thinking about it, if he ran into her again, he needed to get a name. For it was starting to get rather old referring to her as "the mysterious woman with red streaks in her hair."
All was not lost however- he still had one trick up his sleeve; and for what felt like the thousandth time, Federico was extremely thankful for his ability. It most certainly helped in situations similar to his current predicament- whether it was trying to locate Ezio who thought himself so bloody clever in his hiding games, or a slippery woman he was too damn interested about for his own good.
If mother were here, she'd probably call it 'infatuation.'
After so many years of practice, he was proud to say it only took him an intense focus to descend into that eerie realm of greys and shapes that were interspersed with the occasional vibrant aura of blue or red. While it was alarming to see so much red- probably Pazzi underlings up to no good yet again- he was intent on finding that one bit of gold within the masses.
"Can I help you with something?"
It honestly hadn't dawned on him to look behind him, since his original skimming caught nothing out of interest besides an already closed merchant's shop leaning up against some leftover scaffolding. Reminiscing on the choice briefly, perhaps he should have taken a closer look.
But for now, there was a sense of grey-tinted vertigo as he whirled around, followed by bright gold painfully lancing his eyes. As a result he rapidly shook his head, temporarily blinded. When he opened his eyes again, his vision was luckily somewhat back to normal, although occasionally being peppered with lights that danced across his sight.
He had recognized that voice- and soon found the source of it leaning against one of the posts that supported the otherwise unstable looking scaffolding. He had the right mind to suggest she should move, but thought against it. She looked fairly annoyed, and certainly not at all approving he was here. No need to give her an invitation to be further irritated at him.
Thus he tried his best to look like he hadn't been startled, and that he was innocent of anything suspicious by pasting on an easy smile. "Ah yes…" What could he say to that? For once he actually found himself struggling for a witty comeback to that. The eldest Auditore could not seriously be having this issue right now. "Could I have your name?"
….Dio, he mentally smacked himself afterwards. Did he just pull his brother?!
In response she pursed her lips, before reaching behind her into the covered stall she had apparently jumped into to keep out of view- obviously his view to be precise. Smart. "Righttttt, she drawled. "How about no?"
It had been a long shot, but still he found himself pouting- an expression he quickly put away again when she turned back around slipping her bag back over her shoulder. "Why not?" It took all his willpower not to make that sound like a complaint, and apparently it still hadn't worked given the deadpan expression on her face.
She placed her odd robe on one hip while the other was occupied by her hand, an eyebrow rising in incredulity. "Uhm… I would think it obvious? I don't give my names to unnamed strangers and I barely met you just five minutes ago."
That was fair he supposed, although not quite the answer he desired. Still, he could roll with that, and in an undoubtedly exaggerated motion he smacked a hand to his head as if he had forgotten something-in this case his name. "Bah forgive my lack of manners signora! I am Federico Auditore da Firenze." He managed as not to rush his form as he bowed, afterwards taking her hand to kiss it. He was faintly surprised to find it so calloused. An oddity amongst noble women to be sure.
"Charmed," she politely replied, even though her eyes did not approve of such a greeting. Much to her credit though, she didn't yank her hand out of his grasp when he loosened his hold on it. Maybe she wasn't a noblewoman, but she looked to have some courtesy. Some. Not much. Especially given her response. "Quite the mouthful though. I hope you honestly don't expect me to say all that?"
He could not for the life of him put his finger on it, but something in her grey eyes made him stifle the urge to respond with something less than appropriate, yet at the same time risk the consequences and do it anyway. "Just Federico is fine, miss-?" He left that last bit open for her to finish. Sadly, it failed as evidenced by her following laugh. "Okay, your name is a start yes, but that still doesn't mean you're getting mine quite yet."
This time he did let his pout show. There must have been something else to all of this if she was continuing to be adamant about it. "Have I given you a reason to mistrust me so?"
He watched as a dry smile crept across her lips, "Oh besides cutting a lady's purse, then preceding to clonk me on top of the head with it, followed by stalking me?" Her face deadpanned again. "No. Not at all."
"I… what?" Federico sputtered in a dumbfounded Ezio-like manner, not sure if he heard that right. Yet... now that she mentioned it, he had noticed her rubbing a particular spot on the back of her head a great many times the last few minutes. So… in a way he was right. She had hit her head. And apparently by his hand. He mentally winced at that tidbit- for in truth he hadn't bothered to look before tossing the laced accessory into the alley.
But he wasn't given much of a stretch to apologize for both that and the trailing, for she sent the purse at his side a very pointed look. "Speaking of- weren't you supposed to give that back to the poor woman?"
"And if she truly wishes to have it back, she will wait. If not, she has plenty more of coin to choose from out of her father's coffers." He shrugged; slightly uncaring about the former prospects he had hope for. Even after having gone through the effort of 'retrieving' the woman's coin purse to begin with.
Surprisingly.
Somehow unsurprisingly, an expected cynical smile distorted her lips. "Quite the gentleman aren't you?" As sharp as the jab was, he still pasted his most courtly smile. Obviously he had been taught manners at his mother's behest, especially when it came to socializing with women- why he was such a favorite compared to his baby brother afterall- but that did not mean he would back down from a clearly declared challenge. So he had no doubt there was a mischievous gleam to his own eyes as he countered, purposely failing at hiding his own humor. "Since I am willing to help a lost unnamed lady find her way, I fancy to think so."
Immediately her expression soured as she hotly expressed her distaste to such a statement, "I am not lost." He amusingly noted there was a faint flush on her cheeks despite the disapproving scowl and furrowed brows. Either from embarrassment or indignation, it was rather cute he certainly had to admit. Entertained, he wordlessly crossed his arms, a single brow rising in an 'oh really' manner. Honestly. Did she genuinely expect him to believe such words?
Allegedly she had, for the annoyed expression never left her face as she too crossed her arms in an unspoken defiance. "I'm not," she insisted before gesturing around with a hand. "I've been here before, I'm sure of it-." She trailed off, flinty eyes narrowing, obviously irritated that the amusement had not faded from his eyes. He suddenly found himself cross-eyed when she stabbed a finger in his face. "Don't give me that look Mister Whatever-Your-Last-Name-Was-."
"Auditore," he interjected rather unfazed by the digit trying to bury itself in his nose; the entertained smile that was plastered on his face growing, despite what seemed like temptation to strangle him displaying across her features.
And he was delighted to see she didn't miss a step herself, throwing a very nasty look as she dropped her hand. "-yes that. And I'll have you know I am quite aware of where I am-." She faltered again when she saw he was not buying it. However, whatever pride she still possessed refused to admit he was in the right. So it was only understandable they had a staring contest for all of five seconds before her shoulders slumped. "Fine… maybe I am lost." She crossed her arms, glaring burning holes at him. A proud woman to the end it appeared. "You can wipe that smirk off your lips now Federico."
Nevertheless, he couldn't help it. Honestly. She was a feisty vixen and her veiled threat as she said his name was nothing short of adorable.
However despite the urge of further teasing and poking this woman to see how she would react, Federico decided to be merciful just this one time. They both knew he had won this round. No point rubbing it in further- even if it was tempting. Alternatively, he put on his most sympathetic look while spreading his hands out in what he hoped was a placating gesture. "It is nothing to be ashamed about signora. It happens to even the best of us."
When he saw she wasn't going to react outside of an indignant huff, (at least right away), he continued. "Where are you trying to go? Who knows- I could direct you to it." He sincerely hoped she wasn't one of the few women who mistook his sincerity as mockery. Yes, he would be the first to admit he liked to tease. But when it came to actually helping those in need? Federico was always genuine with his offered help. And this woman, fiery temper aside, was absolutely no exception. He just hoped his earlier comments hadn't tainted her impression of him, making her take his offered assistance the wrong way.
So it was with great relief when the sharp glance she had fixed him with softened to an apprehensive eyeing. He knew she didn't necessarily trust him, and really, why would she? He had- ah, what was the word she had used again? Ah right, stalked. "…Alright." She slowly said, stiff shoulders loosening up some giving her a far more relaxed look. "I guess you could help me by telling me what city this is?"
That made him pause, an eyebrow rising. She wasn't even aware of where she was? He didn't even think before blurting, "You mean to tell me you have never been to Florence before?"
Now it was her turn to stare, any fire or sassy remark having died as she studied him with an incredulous expression. She had apparently not been expecting such an answer given how she paled. "Florence? As in... Italy?" She slowly asked in disbelief.
Federico nodded slowly, wondering if something was the matter. "Yes." Really, what other Florence was there?
Her eyebrows furrowed as she brushed a strand of dark hair behind an ear. "Huh, that… explains a lot then." Briefly he caught a glimpse of something dark on her neck, but it disappeared from view as the woman's hair fell back against her neck. A birthmark maybe?"To answer your earlier question…" He was drawn back to the conversation at hand when she started talking again. "Quite the opposite actually, I have been to Florence before. Twice."
She looked around, eyebrows drawn in somewhat recognition. "The last time was little over three years ago. So it was quite recently- yet…" A dubious frown formed on her lips. "It seems to have changed since then." Before he could comment, her eyes went heavenwards, and she looked somewhat taken back, a sharp intake of breath following suit. "I especially don't remember Il Duomo looking so… new."
Becoming more and more confused the more she spoke, Federico followed her gaze towards the east, where indeed the magnificent cathedral that was the Santa Maria del Fiore stood. 'Baffled' did not at all explain what he was feeling right now. 'New'? How? It was a little over forty years old now. How could it suddenly look newer now than the last she had been was three years ago…?
He turned back around only to find that the woman had started pacing, again muttering to herself. He wondered if this was a common thing for her. Or was it just a result of her getting hit in the head?
"…Suppose it makes sense that Greg and Carol would roofie my drink and drop me off in bloody fucking Italy. Amidst Renaissance Faire weekend of all things!" There was a pause which had her looking around with a suspicious eye before resuming her short path back and forth. "Bah, a rather unfair plan of revenge. Whatever, they're bloody lucky I found someone who spoke English even though he's kind of no help whatsoever-."
It was obvious he was not supposed to hear any of this half crazed muttering, so of course he was confused by ever other word that came out of her mouth. 'Renaissance Faire'? What was that? Him speaking English- since when? What was she even going on about? Wisely though, he kept quiet, acting as if he was not hearing a single word of this in spite of the desire to ask if she was well again. By this point he was very much convinced that this lady, despite what she said earlier, had hit her head on something much harder than a thrown coin purse.
What else would explain this erratic behavior?
"-Fucking bastards better pray I'm in a better mood when I get out of here. If I can that is." She paused midway in her tangent, suddenly looking sheepish as she refocused on him. Finally remembered I was here did you? He mused keeping his expression impassive just so he would not give her a hint he had actually heard of all that... whatever that was.
She rubbed the back of her head, appearing embarrassed if not unsure about what to say next. "…just… out of curiosity- do you by any chance have a phone? I need to make a call."
He was never given an opportunity to reply, or even ask what a 'phone' was, before she waved her hands to stop him, looking embarrassed in the process. "Shit never mind that, I couldn't ask of you to break out of character. Silly me let's just go with a better question- what is today's date?"
"December twenty-seventh," Federico replied without hesitation, pushing aside his lingering doubts and confusion. However he was still more than tempted to ask what a phone was, or why she thought he was acting.
But it wasn't his place though, thus he stayed mum.
He would have been lying though if he said it didn't bring him somewhat satisfaction to see a smile brighten her face slightly, even if it was of relief. It honestly was none of his business what was going on at the moment, whatever the woman's strife may be. He just found himself wishing she would smile more often, for he found her far more endearing that way.
"Yeah good... good only been a day went by." She ran a hand through her hair again, letting out a short laugh. "Same year too?"
He shared her humor with a chuckle, shrugging in the process. "From my understanding, yes, it's still 1476."
Federico expected a laugh or another amused smile, but instead he acquired a rather puzzled face from the still nameless woman. And… something else that he had not been expecting with that answer.
Unease.
He suddenly worried if perhaps he had said or did something wrong. He was about to ask what, and how he could help when a loud commotion made itself known behind them. Whooping, and hollering that sounded familiar and it made him stiffen as he went to glance over his shoulder. How he wished he wasn't right…
Pazzi.
Federico couldn't help but curl a lip in disgust as he watched them caper across the square, obviously in quite the mood given how they were shoving each other playfully and all. One would think with the serious allegations against Francesco, they'd be more willing to stay out of the public's view until it blew over. But of course not- that would have been far too easy. For in reality, it seemed to have given the little shit and his lackeys all the more reason to slander his family's name further.
Oh there were a great many names he could use to describe Vieri de'Pazzi, and none of them were remotely suitable in the presence of such company he was currently graced with.
…or at least had been graced with, he discovered when he turned back around to find no such woman in sight. Huh- quite the slippery woman wasn't she? Still recovering from the headache caused by the hiccup earlier, Federico only did a cursory scan and found no sign whatsoever.
He now found himself torn between two choices- investigate what was going on or to go after the woman who had disappeared suddenly. She had looked extremely terrified and he found himself wishing to help... But then again if the Pazzi were converging…
With a reluctant sigh, he let her be, turning the direction where the unruly group had disappeared. Whoever she was, and whatever the issue she had, he had a hunch she could handle it, shortness aside. For now though, he set that aside in favor to focus at the task at hand; there was only one reason such a large group would form, and he had to sigh in mock exasperation as he followed after, picking up the pace as not to lose them, despite having the suspicion about where they were heading.
On the way he managed to find Bianca, surprisingly still waiting for him to return. No longer in the mood he had been in before running into the other mysterious lady, he dropped the purse in her hands and bid her the politest goodbye before departing again.
Federico was not even surprised to find the end result a little while later- Ezio and some of their mutual friends brawling with Vieri and his pawns. Another sigh escaped him in the process of shaking his head, a quirk to his lips as he moved to enter the fray alongside his sibling. Not without asking though…
"What did you do now baby brother?"
~*End*~