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Part 24 of The TOC Files
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Peja's Wonderful World of Makebelieve Import
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2020-11-05
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Loss of Time

Summary:

The mission is to Renaissance Florence, the first without Alan

Work Text:

The wisest are the most annoyed at the loss of time.
[Che'l perder tempo a chi piu sa piu spiace.]
Dante - Purgatorio (III, 78)

The screen on the wall blipped to life forcing Shannon to look up from the book she was reading. A uniformed man looked out at her. "Your presence is requested in the TOC Committee room," the face told her.

"Very well," she sighed. "I'm on my way." The viewscreen switched off. She uncurled from the sofa and checked her reflection in the mirror by the door. After running a hand through her red hair to control it somewhat, she declared herself presentable for the Committee.

She pondered on the destination of the mission as she made her way through the halls to the Committee room. It had been some time since there had been an official mission. The most recent journeys they had taken had been for personal reasons.

The other members of the Temporal Observer Corps were waiting outside. Even though they all lived on the Base, it had been a few days since she had last seen them. The man who had brought them all together had been sent on a diplomatic mission so they had each done their own thing.

"Any word from Alan?" she asked.

"I haven't heard anything," answered Eric Rader, Alan's best friend.

"Me either," replied Ryan Kelly, Alan's twin.

"Do you think they'll send us without him?"

"I don't think they'd keep us from a mission because he's somewhere else," said Ryan.

"It'll just be strange without him."

"Maybe he'll join us if he's done in time," put in Eric.

"Maybe. Shall we go?"

The three entered the Committee room and saluted the officers present before sitting.

"At ease. Please be seated." The Committee Chair spoke from her position at the center of the board. "This next assignment has been some time in coming, as you are well aware. Now that the conditions are most favorable, we cannot delay until Col. Kelly's return. I am aware that he was the leader of your missions, but as far as the Military is concerned the officer of rank for this is Major Rader." The three officers each wished to express disapproval over that choice. "Though I am aware that both Captains Flynn and Kelly each have seniority when it comes to time travel, it is the major who has rank. How you work in the field need not reflect this, but you might want to keep it in mind."

"And where exactly will this assignment be taking us?" asked Eric.

"Florence, Italy in the early 1500s. It is considered by many to be the birthplace of the Renaissance both politically and culturally. At one point in time both Michelangelo and da Vinci called it home."

"Don't forget Machiavelli," put in Ryan.

"And of course the volatile political situation. There was no centralized government and the country was divided into duchies and principalities. Florence was ahead of its time by having elected officials and magistrates. However, when it came right down to it, the Medicis were the power of the city."

"So, what exactly is the mission, ma'am?" asked Eric.

"It is merely to gather information on the era. You will all be equipped with cameras to record all you see. Research has prepared your mission briefing."

Noting the dismissal, the three officers saluted and left the Committee room.

***************************************************************

Shannon sat tall as she rode into Florence. She felt like something out of a Renaissance painting except her entourage consisted of only two. She gave a sly little smile at the thought of them having to play second fiddle to her. Rank had never played an important part in their previous missions. They all had a say in the plan, though they deferred to Alan when it came to the big decisions.

The cover story was that Shannon was the daughter of a prominent London merchant who was looking for a supplier of silks and other fabrics the area was known for. Ryan and Eric would act as her bodyguards, more or less. I'm the money, they're the muscle.

Their little procession wound through the bustling streets and stopped at the house that had been procured for them for the length of their stay. A new division within the Research department had been set up to deal with such details. Shannon remained in the saddle as Ryan and Eric dismounted to check out the situation.

She took advantage of the time and studied the-villa? Palazzo?-in front of her. It seemed a regular, square building, no balconies or gabled roof to set it apart. What did make it different was the façade. The stone was a soft cream color with darker stones in geometric patterns around the windows and doorway.

Ryan returned to help her dismount. Outwardly, he treated her deferentially as one would his employer's daughter, but when only she could see, he grinned widely, enjoying the whole thing immensely. Whenever they had met previously in the past when he was in his former guise of Cameron James, he had to be the one in charge, ordering others about. {You enjoy acting as a servant?}

{I think of myself as an employee in this case, not a servant. I am being paid well for it, anyway. Your father is quite generous.}

They joined Eric who was waiting at the main entrance where the house servants were lined in welcome.

Shannon tried to walk as stately and elegantly as possible, to act every inch a lady even though she was only a merchant's daughter, albeit a wealthy merchant. Eric bowed his head before introducing them.

The first was a tall, older man with graying hair. His face was drawn and very stern and Shannon could tell by his eyes that he was assessing her every move. "This is Pietro, the major domo."

"Bon giorno, signorina. Welcome to your home." He bowed at the waist.

"Grazie, Pietro."

"If there is any request you have, please come to me and I will do my best to get it done."

The faces of the remaining servants blended together. It was amazing the number of housemaids, parlor maids, scullery maids, footmen, gardeners, and grooms it took to run a house plus Pietro and Signora Viccini the housekeeper. There was no way she would remember all the names.

"Signorina, you must be tired. Lucia will take you to your rooms."

A young fresh-faced girl in a plan brown dress with a starched white apron stepped forward and dropped a curtsey. A white scarf covered her hair, whether to keep it from dust or to hide it from the longing eyes of the male servants, Shannon wasn't sure.

She turned to Eric and Ryan. "After you have settled yourselves, come to my rooms and we will discuss our approach."

"Yes, m'lady," agreed Eric with a nod. Ryan also bowed as she walked by.

Shannon followed Lucia up the wide marble staircase and tried to act as if she were used to such opulence. Full-length portraits by grand masters dotted the walls and an enormous tapestry depicting a stag hunt greeted her when the reached the first floor.

"It is this way, my lady." The shy maid made a left at the top of the stairs then stopped in front of two ornately carved doors, pushing them both open.

The main sitting room was done in peacock blue with the gilded furniture covered in matching embroidered silk. It was definitely a lady's room. She then followed Lucia into a bedroom that took her breath away. The dominating color was a soft pastel yellow complimented by darker shades of green and burgundy. The bed was canopied in deep blue satin with matching covers. Oh, how she yearned to fall back onto that down mattress and wallow in comfort but neither her "position" nor her dress would allow for such an indulgence.

"I will help you undress, my lady, should you care to lie down after your long journey."

Hm, a rest, a chance to lie on that bed... No, not now. "I need to speak with my men first. Perhaps you could find me something appropriate to change into."

"As you wish, my lady."

******************************************************************

Ryan watched the efficiency of the house staff. Everyone had their own job and very rarely, if at all, did they overlap. He wondered where he and Eric would fall in this hierarchy. Paid bodyguards for a foreigner didn't seem to fit any of the existing pigeonholes. Pietro, major domo that he was, assigned a young footman to show them to their room. Thankfully, it wasn't some attic room but a small guest room on the same floor as Shannon's, further down the hall so they could be close enough to guard, yet not where they could be considered true guests themselves.

{Shannon, you ready for visitors?}

{Just about. Lucia is still fussing over my clothes. Give me about five minutes.}

{It might just take us that long to get there. This place is huge.}

{I know. Cool, ininit?}

Ryan chuckled. "C'mon, Shannon's ready."

"What was the laugh for?" Eric asked as he closed the wardrobe.

"Shannon's acting like a kid enjoying this way too much. Says it's 'cool'."

"Well, it is. There's no war or disaster to witness. We get to hang out in an elegant Florentine palazzo and just observe. I think it's probably the cushiest assignment we've ever had."

"Now that you put it that way, it is kinda cool."

They walked down the hall and knocked on the doors to Shannon's room. "Come in."

Ryan couldn't help but smile at the picture that presented itself when he walked in. The maid Lucia was busy putting away clothes and accessories while Shannon reclined on a chaise lounge dressed in a loose-fitting jade silk robe.

He made a quick bow. "Please, sit down," she told them. "We have much to discuss. Lucia, you may leave. When I am done here, I plan to take a nap as I am weary from traveling."

Lucia dropped a curtsey. "As you wish, signorina." She left the room.

"Is there anything your humble servants can do for you, m'lady?" asked Eric fawningly.

"Quit it!" She sat up straight. "I have to act like I'm used to this or it won't work."

"I believe it," Ryan teased.

"I think the first thing we need to do is gain an audience with the di Medici. There's no way I'll be able to get out with you so you'll have to handle it yourselves."

"I think we'll be able to manage it." Ryan reached for some grapes resting in a nearby bowl of fruit. "I don't think they'd take it well to a woman in a position of power anyway."

"We'll try to diplomatically pave the way for your arrival," Eric said quickly before Shannon could start arguing.

"Make sure you do the talking," she retorted.

"As you wish."

Shannon uncurled herself from the chaise, crossed to a low cabinet and lifted an ornate box from its surface. "Here. You can't forget this."

Eric took it from her, holding it gently. "Don't want them to think we're cheap, do we?"

"What did you finally choose anyway?" Ryan knew she had been having a tough time deciding on what gift to give Lorenzo deMedici. It had to be something just right.

"A Celtic torque with jewel inlays as well as an assortment if silver jewelry. I thought of an illuminated manuscript, but once I held it in my hands, I knew I wouldn't be able to give it away."

"We'll present it to him and really lay it on thick why you're here," said Eric.

"We might be able to get a few 'gifts' in return," commented Ryan. "A few genuine Renaissance pieces would be a nice start to my new collection."

"That is not the reason for this." Shannon glared.

"I know. They'd be a bonus." Ryan ducked out of the room before Shannon could find something to throw at him.

*********************************************************************

Alan arrived back in his quarters and dropped his dufflebag on the floor before collapsing into his recliner. He felt like he had been stuck on Doflair for years. He had been so tempted to just escape but knew he couldn't. He owed it to Chai to follow through. All that diplomacy and double-talk had started to drive him mad. How does Evan handle it?

He sighed. There was nothing more he could do. He just hoped the Alliance would come to its senses and make the right decision.

The screen on his wall beeped notifying him of an incoming message. "Col. Kelly, welcome back. The Committee would like to see you at your earliest convenience." The face on the screen disappeared before Alan could reply.

"No way! I just got back! They can't be sending me on a mission already!"

He forced himself out of the chair and left his quarters not even caring how he looked. He wanted them to see he needed some downtime. He strode through the halls to the Committee Room barely acknowledging the greetings he received along the way.

He gave the door one sharp knock before entering the room. Once inside, he saluted.

"Welcome back, Colonel," said the Committee chair. "It seems we should have heeded your warning regarding sending you to Doflair."

"I did say I was not cut out for diplomacy."

"So the entire Alliance has learned," commented another member.

Alan tried to look chagrined.

"While the diplomats are trying to reach a solution, we have debated your situation."

Oh great. Disciplinary action.

"Due to your unique situation, we believed it best that you maintain a low profile. Something hard to do in this day and age." He looked at Alan meaningfully.

Alan smiled. "Yes, sir. I understand completely," he said seriously.

"It's our decision then that you join your team as soon as possible. Dismissed."

Alan saluted sharply before leaving. Back in the field. Quite the opposite of what I expected. He was back in his quarters before he realized he didn't even know the mission.

******************************************************

Eric walked with Ryan through the streets of Florence and tried not to gawk at the masterpieces that lined the road. It made him wander what was in the water that so much creativity should spring up in one area in the same time frame. As a matter of fact, according to the briefing, both Michelangelo and daVinci were in the city at this time.

"C'mon, Eric. Don't want to get lost on your first day."

"Lost in appreciation," he said, catching up. "You probably haven't even noticed."

"You can't swing a bloody cat without hitting a future masterpiece."

"But have you ever wondered how or why all of it happened here and now?" Eric asked.

"As to how they came to be creative, no, but I know that they were allowed to flourish and even encouraged by patrons, chief among them Lorenzo deMedici." They stopped outside the Uffizi. "Remember, let me do the talking."

Which was the opposite of what Shannon wanted, but Eric knew that Ryan was better at flattery so let it go. He'd jump in if Ryan stuck his foot in his mouth.

***********************************************************

Alan arrived in Florence with just a bare outline of what the mission was. He was, however, given directions to the palazzo where they were staying. He just had to figure out how he would fit into their little scenario. He could either be another English merchant or he could be Florentine. He'd have to see what worked better once he got there.

About a block or so away from the house, Alan spotted two familiar faces in the crowd. He picked up his pace and came up between them, draping an arm over each of their shoulders. "Gentlemen, care to fill me in?"

They looked at him a little surprised. "What the hell are you doing here?" demanded Ryan.

"Well that's a fine welcome."

"It is a bit surprising seeing you here when you're supposed to be on Doflair," said Eric.

"I got back a little earlier than expected, so the Committee sent me back to join you."

Ryan stopped and looked at him. "So, you opened your big mouth and were sent back here until the dust settles."

"Basically, yeah."

"I will admit I was amazed they would send you there. Everyone knows what goes on."

"I don't think you can really comprehend until you witness it. I did warn them I wasn't the right choice." He looked at each of them. "So, what were you doing?"

"We were just requesting an audience with Lorenzo deMedici for Shane," replied Ryan.

"Is it me, or do you still find it strange how we oh-so-casually name-drop historical figures?" questioned Eric.

Alan thought on that. He had become immune to the awe such a thing would normally inspire. Was he taking such things for granted? "Now that you mention it, we are treating them like anyone else we meet in the course of a mission. I remember the first few times being completely awestruck meeting people like Paul Revere or Captain Morgan."

"Maybe we should have a few more of these cultural missions," put in Ryan. "No wars or battles to witness, just sightseeing."

"Thing is, times like that are few and far between."

They soon arrived at the palazzo and Eric and Ryan escorted him past staring servants upstairs to an ornate pair of doors. "M'lady's chamber?"

"Of course." Ryan knocked on the door and they heard a muffled reply. {Are you alone?}

{Yes. Come in.}

Ryan opened the door. "We ran into someone asking questions about you so we brought him along."

Alan stepped out from behind his brother.

**************************************************************

Shannon smiled when she saw Alan. She was no longer in command and glad of it. But why was he here? He was supposed to be on Doflair. That could mean only one thing. "What did you do?"

"Why is it you think it was something I did?"

"We all know you have a hard time controlling your temper when confronted by idiots," she answered.

"They were definitely that."

"C'mon, sit down and fill us in."

She watched as Alan took a seat on one of the chairs and tried to compose himself for telling his story. "The trip started out okay. I didn't make a fool of myself discussing the TOC, which was a relief, believe me. It was a few nights later when the Roving Shakespeare Company presented the delegates with tickets to a performance. I was tired and just wanted to stay in. However, my interest was piqued by a news broadcast that showed some clips of previous performance. I decided to see the performance myself, but from the gallery.

"I became suspicious when cues were missed and characters appeared onstage at the wrong time which was odd as this group was supposed to be the best."

"And the play?" asked Eric.

"Oh, Hamlet."

"And of course you knew how it should be done," joked Ryan as he leaned back.

Alan only smiled before continuing. "Goons at the doors confirmed my suspicions and then the actors broke out of character saying no one would be hurt if we all did as we were told."

"Something you don't take too kindly," Shannon couldn't help but comment.

"True. Anyway, along with my neighbors in the gallery, we took out the guards and they escaped. I snuck backstage and overheard their plans. They were native Doflarians who wanted a forum to air their grievances. In my own inimitable style, I told them they would only achieve the opposite effect."

"So of course they all just lay down their weapons and gave themselves up," said Ryan dryly.

Why is Ryan being so snarky? Could it be he wanted a chance to shine in a mission without Alan around?

Alan ignored his brother and continued. "The leader, she was willing to listen to my arguments but was outnumbered. One of them challenged me to a duel and I agreed under the condition that for every hit I made a section of the audience would go free."

"They had no idea of your ability with weapons?" questioned Shannon.

"It's not in any PR releases, no," Alan answered. "Anyway, I soon had them all freed and then their leader let me go unchallenged.

She was unable to convince them what they were doing was wrong because some time after, they came out as a group and she was being held hostage. I tried to stop the police from firing but it was too late. They were all killed.

"That's when the press spotted me, and, as I was really ticked off, I didn't hold back."

"Ryan was right. You were 'asked' to join us until things calm down," said Eric.

"I think they're afraid I might open my mouth and make things worse," he agreed with a slight smile.

Shannon lay back on the chaise and watched as the three men chatted on about other things. She studied Alan. Even though he was taking all their ribbing in good form, she could tell that what he had witnessed truly affected him deeply. They all knew that he spoke out against oppression but she had never seen him so bothered. What was it about this incident that was so different? She mulled it over and soon came to the realization that this time he didn't have the support of the Alliance behind him.

That was what was bothering him so much. The Alliance could not come out and condemn the situation on Doflair for political reasons. The fact that they wanted to settle quietly was apparent by the fact they sent Alan away. Shannon knew it was something he wouldn't forget-something he shouldn't forget-but she didn't want him being morose and moody. This was Florence at the height of the Renaissance and they were going to have fun.

She stood. "I have been cooped-up in here all day. I want to go out and explore a bit."

"You have to maintain your reputation as a respectable woman," said Ryan. "That might not be a very good idea."

"Horseback riding."

"What?" asked Eric.

"Women of the time went horseback riding. It was perfectly respectable. Besides, I'll have the three of you with me."

**************************************************************8

He sat on the small hill overlooking the fields outside Florence, sketchbook on his lap. He had to get away from the large block of marble waiting for him back at his workshop. It was so large no sculptor had attempted to work it in close to 40 years. Stubborn, he convinced the Operai that he was the one to take on the commission. He just had to decide how to go about it. Unfortunately, the stone was not telling him what it wanted to be, what it needed to be.

To free his mind, he came out here to do landscapes for which he didn't need to concentrate. His hand seemed to move the charcoal of its own accord and his mind was able to wander.

He looked up when he heard thundering hooves and saw four riders racing across the field. As they came closer he could see it was a group of three men and one woman. The men were dressed in very simple yet good quality clothes with very little finery. The woman, on the other hand, wore a riding habit in what appeared to be embroidered green silk and her unbound red hair flew out behind her. Her face was an expression of joy at the freedom she was experiencing.

Even though they seemed to be if different social status, they looked to have a strong bond of friendship, something he had never really experienced. He quickly began to sketch them before they disappeared completely. He wished he had seen their faces up close to give them more detail.

When it became obvious he had lost the best light and the riders had disappeared, he picked up his belongings to head back to the city. He hoped he would have another chance to see the group again-or at least the woman.

**********************************************************

Ryan was in Shannon's rooms appraising all the bits and pieces tastefully displayed when the major domo knocked on the already open door. "Yes, Pietro?" Shannon asked, looking up from her writing.

"Mi scusi, Signorina. This missive just arrived. It bears the Medici seal." Pietro allowed the slightest of cracks in his façade. He handed Shannon the letter and backed out.

"Oh, my God." She slipped her finger along the edge gently so as not to break the sealing wax.

Ryan couldn't take it. "Just open the damn thing!"

"I don't want to ruin the seal." She opened the letter. "Christ! He wants to see me today!"

"What's the matter? This was the whole point of giving him the torque."

"What am I going to wear?"

Ryan couldn't help but laugh. "Call Lucia. I'm sure she knows what's appropriate." He headed for the door. "I'll tell the others." He knew he wouldn't get much of a response, as her head was deep in the wardrobe.

He found Eric and Alan down the hall. "Well, we've got an audience today."

"That was relatively quick," commented Eric. "Shannon must've been ecstatic."

"The first thing she wanted to know was what she should wear."

"I guess time and place play no added part in a woman's need to look her best," put in Alan.

"Piero already knows us," said Eric, "so what do we say about you?"

"I'll just mingle with the crowd. There are sure to be others waiting to see him."

"You don't want to meet him yourself?" Ryan asked.

"There's no need. I'd like a chance to be in the background."

He couldn't believe his brother didn't want to take lead on this mission or even have a more active role. He was always the one directing their movements. Maybe Doflair had hit deeper than he let on. "OK, you can be backup."

"Do you think we really need backup? There's no war, no political factions we've angered. We haven't been here long enough."

"Eric, I would have thought that during your time as a mercenary, you would have learned that there's always some in-fighting going on and that newcomers will always be used unwittingly in the plays of those in power."

"Thus speaks the voice of experience," joked Alan. "He even used me once."

"Just the once?"

"Well, once that fits this topic. Remember Sirus?" He turned to Ryan. "I think you do, Alcalde."

Ryan knew his brother wasn't baiting him, just pointing out an example, so he simply agreed. "Exactly my point. Through no fault of your own, you got caught up in political intrigue and my personal machinations-an added benefit for me."

"So, we just go in, talk with Piero deMedici, keep to ourselves, and not take sides," Eric summarized. "Sounds easy enough."

"Which it really isn't." Alan walked to the wardrobe. "I'll go ahead of you, get the lay of the land, and such. You guys don't have anything a bit more...flash, do you?"

"We're posing as servants. Why would we have flashy outfits?" Ryan walked over to him. "Why don't you just use the hologram projector?"

"I guess I could. I was just hoping for the real thing. Wouldn't have to worry about it shorting out or anything."

Ryan watched, as with a slight shimmer, Alan's clothes appeared to change. He now "wore" black hosen, black leather breeches, and a black doublet with red and black slashed sleeves over a deep red shirt. Topping it off was a black velvet hat, one side folded upwards, with a large red feather attached.

"I thought you wanted flash," said Eric.

"It's got flash. Look, silver embroidery on the doublet. Besides, what better way to stand out amongst all veritable strutting peacocks than to look different?"

"I thought you were supposed to mingle, blend in?" He's trying to do it again, steal our thunder.

"Hey, I can dress like them without dressing like them."

"Whatever."

"I'll go check with Shannon, see how she's doing before heading out. I'll let you guys know what's going on once I get there." Alan left with a wave.

"I'm glad he's back," commented Eric. "Aren't you?"

"Thrilled."

*****************************************************************

As he still couldn't figure out what to do with the marble, he jumped at Piero's summons. It could be for anything from a new commission-which would have to wait-or to show off his "pet" artist. He put up with it because Piero was his patron. If not for the Medici, he would be working as a farmer somewhere or laboring in the city. He could put up with Piero for a few hours if it would delay his starting the marble.

He waited in the reception rooms outside the offices along with everyone else who wanted an audience. He hung back from the rainbow crowd not wanting to be the object of their stares and pointing fingers. He was an artist. He wasn't supposed to look like them but comment on them.

Out of the corner of his eye he saw something different. He turned to see a man dressed mostly in black with red and silver. The clothing itself was good quality though of simple design. He knew how to stand out without being overly flash. He watched as the man made his way about the room, nodding when greeted and smiling at bits of conversation.

When the man reached him, he stopped. "You look about as out-of-place as I feel," he said, emerald eyes sparkling. "My name's Alan Kelly." He held out his hand in greeting.

"You speak fine Italian, Signore Kelly. You are English?"

"Close enough."

"I am Michelangelo Buonarroti."

"The Michelangelo? The artist? It is an honor to meet you."

"You know of my work?"

"I have traveled extensively throughout Italy and I seem to see your work everywhere."

"I take my commissions where I can find them."

"Is there anything you're working on now?"

Signore Kelly was most inquisitive. "There is one commission I have that is proving most difficult: a sculpture of David. I still cannot decide on the pose. It needs to be something that can work with the marble as well as being something unique."

"I'm sure you can come up with something."

There was a commotion at the entrance and Michelangelo turned to see his mystery lady enter. She was wearing a gown of deep burgundy velvet which contrasted beautifully with her hair which had been placed in a pearled net in an attempt to tame it. Her face was even more beautiful than he had imagined. Her fair complexion was clear of any blemish, her lips full and smiling, her eyes green and laughing. "I must meet her."

"I believe I can help you."

Michelangelo looked at his new acquaintance and smiled. If he could meet his muse, he could easily endure whatever Piero threw at him today.

***********************************************************************

Eric walked in with Ryan a few paces behind Shannon as was required. She needed to make an entrance, to create talk. Lucia had done a marvelous job chosing Shannon's gown and styling her hair. When he had first seen her, he had been floored by the transformation. He had gotten so used to seeing herin pants and fatigues, it was almost easy to forget she was a woman.

When Shannon paused in the doorway, Eric heard a hush fall as everywone looked in her direction. After a brief moment, it started up again and he knew she was now the new topic of conversation.

She glided into the room and Eric wanted to laugh at the male reaction. Mouths gaped and some men actually pressed forward to gain a better glimpse. In his role as bodyguard, Eric got to hold them off. Some of the more gallant courtiers offered Shannon their seats and she made a great deal of choosing the right one. Once she was settled, Eric and Ryan took up position on either side and put on their most formidable faces.

After a few moments, Alan approached with a man in tow. "Mistress Flynn, it is you, is it not? You look different from when I last saw you."

"Master Kelly, it is a relief to see a familiar face in this city. How fare you?"

"Well, thank you. I am here to create some business connections, which you must be doing as well."

"Yes. My father has entrusted me to do business on his behalf. That is how I have gained an audience."

"Ah, you have an invitation. I am waiting to see if I can make my way in at some point. Perhaps with the help of someone such as yourself, I may yet."

"And what of your friend?"

"My apologies. Mistress Shannon Flynn, allow me the honor of introducing Signore Michelangelo Buonarroti."

**********************************************************

Michelangelo looked into the face of his mystery woman and was lost. She had the fair complexion associated with red hair with only a smattering of freckles that she didn't bother to hide. Her eyes were deep green and intelligent. If she were here for business, she would have to be wise for Piero did not tolderate fools when it came to business.

The two men flanking her did not have the usual build of bodyguards but he could see by their faces they were intent in their work. Even though neither carried a weapon-only those of a certain class were allowed-they looked deadly. He then realized they had to have been two of the riders from the other day.

"A pleasure to meet you, Signore Buonarroti," she said, holding out her hand.

"The pleasure is mine, Signorina," he responded, kissing the back of it. "You have brightened an otherwise dismal time."

"Are you sure you are not a poet, signore?" she asked, her eyes lit with amusement.

"Would that I were, signoring, then I would not fail so abysmally in a description of you." Were I to paint you, then you would know how I truly see you."

"That would be marvelous! If my time in Florence allows, I would like that very much."

Michelangelo beamed and felt the envious eyes of the other men in the room on him. He would spend many an hour with his new muse. The statue of David would wait.

********************************************************

Shannon looked in the mirror, pleased with her reflection. After all, this look was going to be immortalized by Michelangelo! He would be arriving at the palazzo any moment to discuss the pose and make a few sketched.

"Maybe we should have some fancy dress balls back home to give you an excuse to wear those."

She turned to see Alan leaning against the doorjamb. "It might be the only time. I can't exactly wear them to the office."

"Pity. You look great."

It pleased her that Alan still thought of her as a woman and not just as "one of the guys". Something had started near the beginning of this whole adventure but they mutually made an unspoken decision not to pursue it. Now they were the closest of friends and she knew it was better that way.

"Shane?"

"Hm? Sorry, I was thinking."

"I asked if you were gonna be okay with Michelangelo."

"Lucia will be there to keep tongues from wagging. Plus, if history is correct, you'd be the one who would need to be careful if left alone with him."

The look on Alan's face was priceless. He always considered himself a ladies' man so to be thought of that way by a man definitely threw him.

"We're going to be sparring in the courtyard. We're getting a little bored."

"No battles so you need to create your own. I just wish I could join you."

"Michelangelo wants to paint you because you're different from the other women of the time. However, I think swordplay might be taking it too far."

"Go on and have your fun. I have to go pose for posterity." She could hear his laughter echo down the hall as he left.

She smoothed down her gown. She loved wearing all the finery but missed the freedom pants provided as well as the ability to walk about unescorted.

"Signorina?"

"Yes, Lucia?"

"Signore Buonarroti has arrived."

"Grazie." She walked down the stairs to the parlor like the grand lady she was pretending to be.

*************************************************

Ryan looked over the swords, debating which style would be the one to start with. The so-called "bastard" swords would probably be best as, more than likely, they would be too tired near the end of their workout to use them. He passed one to Eric before lifting his own. "We'd best start with these."

Eric hefted the sword, testing weight and balance. "Shouldn't we wait for Alan?"

"They way he handles weapons, we'll be catching up."

They started off with "slow work" to limber up before gradually increasing speed. Ryan had always thought of himself more as a manipulator, a schemer, not one who actually got his hands dirty. His time with Alan changed his views on that. He now knew that swordplay was a masterful blend of art and science and any good workout left him drained and elated at the same time. Now way was he in his brother's league-Alan's gift was unparalleled.

He looked over Eric's shoulder and saw his brother making his way across the courtyard. There was something different about his gait. As he got closer, Ryan could see his pre-occupied face. "That must've been some outfit Shane picked out."

"What?" Eric asked as he held back his hand.

"That look on his face. He's still picturing her."

Eric turned so he could watch Alan's approach. "Oh, yeah. I was going to ask if he still felt that way about her, but that answers my question."

"OK, not a word. We might be able to use his distraction to our advantage."

"Good thinking."

Alan got closer. "What? You couldn't wait for me?"

"We didn't know how long you were going to be?" Ryan lied.

"Sure." He took off his doublet so he was dressed only in his loose shirt and breeches. "I see we're starting with the hand-and-a-half. Nice choice."

Ryan watched as Alan made a few test lunges and parries, almost envying the fluidity of the movements. Can't let him know that of course! "Can we start now?"

***********************************************

Michelangelo stood when Signorina Flynn fairly glided into the room. "Buon giorno, Signore Buonarroti. I'm so glad you could make it." She slipped into her chair like a queen to a throne. "I trust you had no trouble finding it."

"Oh, no, Signorina. I believe almost all of Florence knows you are staying here."

She laughed lightly. "Yet at home I am virtually anonymous outside my own class and circle." She gestured with her hand to the table laid with fruits and candies. "Do you care for any refreshment or would you prefer to get started?"

"I was thinking I would like to paint you in an outdoor setting, something similar to when I first saw you." He pulled out his sketches of her on horseback.

She took the drawings and looked them over. "These are wonderful, signore. So much shown in quick, simple sketches." She lifted her eyes to him. "We didn't know anyone was there."

"I was working on landscapes. You looked so open, so free, I couldn't resist." He took the sketches back and placed them in the portfolio. "Perhaps somewhere in your garden?"

"We might be able to find a spot. Everything is blooming now and I like to go there for solitude." She led him along the stone path past a myriad of blooming flower and their heady perfume. She stopped where a bench was placed under a trellis providing both shade and cover. "This is where I come to be alone."

"It's lovely." He motioned for her to sit as he took out his charcoal and paper and began to sketch, asking her to adjust her pose to try different angles. Somewhere close by he heard what sounded like a swordfight. Signorina Flynn was unperturbed so he ignored it as best he could and continued.

As he sketched, everything seemed to fall into place but yet something was missing. The setting and they subject were both beautiful and that's when he realized it was turning out to be like any other portrait: staid and dull. He wasn't capturing her vitality, the life in her that made her stand apart. He stopped and stretched. "Signorina Flynn, is there perhaps somewhere else we could try?"

"Is something wrong, Signore?" she asked, flexing her fingers.

"This is turning out to be like a portrait I would do of anyone else. I wish to find the real you."

"Ah." She looked disconcerted.

"Perhaps by the stables?"

"Of course."

She led him to a door in the garden wall that connected to the stable courtyard. It was there that he saw the source of the noise that had plagued him. "Figlio di puttana!"

***************************************************************

Eric was wiped-but in a good way. This sword fighting took a lot out of you. He wiped the sweat off his face before heading for the water barrel. He was oh-so tempted to dunk his head in the cool water but settled for pouring the contents of the ladle over his head instead.

Temporarily cooled, he watched Ryan and Alan as they continued with rapiers. Even though it was only a practice exercise, they seemed to have fallen back to their former ways. As Cameron James, Ryan had wanted Alan dead or disgraced. Sibling rivalry at a whole new level.

They slowly circled each other occasionally tapping swords as if testing reaction time. Ryan was the first to attack with a feint to the right before quickly going left. Alan deftly blocked it before pushing him away. They circled a few more times and then it was Alan's turn to go on the offensive. He advanced aggressively, forcing Ryan to back away.

Eric turned away from the fight when he saw Shannon approaching with Michelangelo. He bowed his head. "Mistress. Do you wish us to stop?"

"No, that's quite all right. We were looking for a new location and I had forgotten you were practicing here." She watched admiringly as Ryan gained the upper hand putting Alan on the defensive. After he scored a hit, they separated. After a brief pause, Alan started forward, taking no prisoners.

"Signore Kelly is quite the master swordsman," said Michelangelo, enraptured. Whether it was for the fight or the fighters, Eric couldn't tell.

Alan rolled his shoulder indicating a strike to the _____. Ryan caught this too and adjusted accordingly. This movement opened his left side to attack and Alan struck this vulnerable point as he passed.

Ryan turned and fixed his brother, sword at the ready, his face glaring. It was a look Eric had seen before but couldn't remember where.

Michelangelo gasped and pulled out his charcoal. Something had inspired him. Eric looked over at Shannon who shrugged.

Eric's attention returned to the artist's sketching, the duel forgotten as the drawing took shape. So that's why! Ryan will be happy to know that he inspired something this time instead of Alan.

"Eric!"

At Shannon's cry, Eric looked up and quickly pulled Michelangelo out of the path of the brothers as they fought through, disregarding anything-or anyone-in their way. Including the water barrel. They crashed into and it broke apart drenching both of them and Shannon. There was a moment of stunned silence before she started to laugh loud and long.

The situation defused, the others joined in and Eric lent a hand to the brothers. "You decided to go for the big finish, hunh?"

"We wanted a little audience participation," said Ryan, catching his breath.

"A marvelous display, signores," declared Michelangelo. "You have inspired me. I must go back to my workshop and finalize these sketches."

"You're done? You don't need a new location?" Shannon asked him.

"No, not at the moment. If I do need to see you again, may I send a messenger?"

"By all means, signore. Now go and put your ideas to paper."

The artist sketched a quick bow before leaving.

*******************************************************

The rest of their time was spent in a leisurely fashion-more like a vacation than a mission. Alan's mood lightened considerably and he let the rest of them make decisions, only offering advice if asked for it. Due to the change in Alan, Ryan became less defensive and returned to his previous form. The fact that he inspired probably the best work of Renaissance sculpture didn't hurt either. Eric was...Eric. He always provided the voice of reason when they all got caught up with whatever was going on.

She got to do a little shopping, picking up a pair of soft tan leather gloves, some handmade gold jewelry and Piero offered her some samples of material to take with her. She also made sure they all made a trip to Rome. There was no way she was going to be this close and not go.

Unfortunately, it was time to bid farewell to the palazzo and servants. Shannon gave Lucia a simple silver Celtic cross pendant and chain as a thank you. The girl was overcome and promised to wear it every day. The rest of the servants lined up outside to say goodbye to their temporary mistress. She thanked them all by name before walking to the mounting block where Eric and Ryan helped her onto her horse.

As she rode through the city flanked by her "bodyguards", she reflected back on the mission as a whole. They had gotten to know each other outside a Military situation and immerse themselves in the culture without having to worry about battles or political intrigue despite Ryan's warnings.

She looked up as Alan joined them on a chestnut stallion that seemed raring to go. "You ready?" she asked as he fell in beside her.

"Yep. Picked up a few things, said my goodbyes."

"And?" prompted Ryan.

"What makes you think there's something else?"

"You're grinning like an idiot-which by itself means nothing-and you're blocking me."

Shannon looked at him. Blocking? Why would he be blocking his thoughts? "OK, that's not a good thing."

"Oh, all right. Take away the surprise, why don't you?" He sighed. "I stopped to say goodbye to Michelangelo before he started sculpting." He gave Ryan a crooked grin. "I asked him for the sketches of your portrait. I think he plans to call it Hibernia."

"The Roman name for Ireland. I like it. So, can I see?"

"They're back in the bags somewhere." He turned in his saddle as if looking for it.

"C'mon, let's go already!"

"Hold your horses, 'David'." He looked back at her. "I guess we'd better wait till we get back."

"Are you gonna be alright?"

"I think so, yeah. Thanks."

And Shannon knew he would be. No matter what was waiting for him when they got back, she would be there for him 100%. They all would be.

"Will you tell Elmer to get a move on?" Ryan yelled. "Damn horse is ruining our image."

"This stallion is not slow, but sedate!" Alan argued back. "Better than your gelding!"

Eric cantered up to her side. "Makes me glad I'm an only child."

They moved ahead and let the bickering brothers continue. "Well, at least they're at it like this when they don't really mean it." She turned to look over her shoulder and saw them gesturing none too happily. She looked back to Eric. "They don't, do they?"

Eric laughed. "Nah, no venom. Just good natured brotherly love."

"Thank God for that."

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