[Cesare looks sharply in Ezio's direction.]

Obviously I know of Leonardo da Vinci. You did not specify which Leonardo. [It was an exceptionally common name in Italy.]

You speak as if you know the man personally? Has he done portraits for your family?

Is that so... [Very interesting. Ezio came from a better family than Cesare may have guessed. Leonardo's paintings had only gained serious notoriety in the last few years however, seventeen years ago who could guess how much Ezio's mother would have paid for such paintings.

He is lost in such thoughts a moment, looking introspective.]

Leonardo. Yes if only he were here, I would put him to very good use indeed.

From what I hear that would be quite the sum. I would have had my sister's portrait by Leonardo had my personal funds been that steep.

[He is, very obviously, quite impressed Ezio has such a prestigious friend.]

[That's right, he keeps forgetting that Ezio knew him in some fashion in his world despite Cesare never having met Ezio in his own. He knew Lucrezia then. A little flutter in his chest and he stands up quickly, eagerly even and follows Ezio. He's less the scheming tyrant now and more the proud big brother.]

You have seen my fair Lucrezia? What does she look like in your place and time, to your eyes?

[Cesare is silent and intense in his attention devoted to every word from Ezio about his love, his life, his sweet sister.]

Yes that is my darling sister. [Said slowly, thoughtfully. Cesare looks slightly troubled by Ezio's estimation of her; someone using her for ill has already happened. Like a true Borgia she persevered and in the end they got their revenge on the Sforza though.]

It is my hope she will join me here. [He brightens considerably at that, even forgetting himself and opening the door for himself. He steps outside.]

I would even have you meet her, I think she would like you.

You would protect her?

[Cesare reaches out and places his hand on Ezio's arm, looking seriously at him, questioning. His feeling toward this man increases again as it had when he saw just how talented a killer he was. To have that power on the side of his sister, would mean a great deal to him.]

Even... [And for perhaps the first time since they have met, Cesare looks not the overly confident master strategist but a loving, insecure, unsure boy.] ...even though she is Borgia?

[After this exchange of words he is silent, moving alongside Ezio deep in thought. An ally. A true ally, one who would protect Lucrezia. As much as he would like to hold power over this man, perhaps that is the greater reward for effort and time put into their relationship.

After some time he finally answers, quietly.]

Thank you.