literature

Ezio x Reader ~ Red Or White

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The men before you stood quietly now, their faces contoured by the growing shadows in the room.  An agitated fear had taken you, one that rose through your body in a wave of heat, numbing every limb and tightening each muscle with gripping anxiety. You drummed your fingers against the back of the chair, your nails irritating the wood in repetitive taps. “Stop that.” One snarled in a hushed voice, your fingers immediately froze in mid motion, quickly falling limp at his command. You wished you had possessed a weapon when you opened the door, though there still would have been little you could have done, but still you damned yourself for being so vulnerable.  

Your throat had turned dry, making swallowing an uncomfortable challenge, and perhaps the silence in the room made it sound louder, but not just swallowing, every noise was magnified by the hush; breathing, the most shallow breath was noticeable, even just shifting in your seat created stark contrast from the still, which the party before you had created in their silent wait, perhaps pondering their next move, or using silence as it's own oppressive weapon, it was after all, the silence, that was driving you mad.

You knew as soon as he knocked, as soon as his knuckles brushed that door, it was already over. The gag was too tightly about your mouth to make any noise the man would notice, it all seemed inevitable, like watching an execution, the axe was raising, and it was about the drop, the prisoners life would end, and it would all happen in one swift motion before your eyes, you, a third person to this others life. But now, in this unofficial execution, it was your own lover, and still, you sat unmoving, incapable to do anything to prevent that which fate had already decided.

Curling your fingers into a tight fist of anger, wishing that you had not been so careless, that the assassins displays of affection had not been so public, maybe then it wouldn't have come to this. Your eyes burned from keeping tears repressed firmly behind your set expression, nibbling your lower lip behind the gag in effort to distract yourself to nothing.

It was then the faint knock came, knuckles tapping against wood, the inevitable sound that rung like the bells of a church to signal the next hour, this was it, the axe dropping, and you could only watch. The men about you all looked at one another, one moved wordlessly to the window, sweat beading on his forehead as his lips tightened under the tension. “It's him.” He muttered, his voice low and thick as he said those two words you dreaded most.

Your eye closed for a moment of regret, your heartbeat hastened inside your chest, beating rapidly in competition with your racing breaths, each short and never managing to fill your lungs with enough air. Your eyes widened as you watched the men all move into the shadows, one standing behind the door, he swung it open while staying out of sight. It swayed silently, moonlight leaked through the opening, followed by the chill night air. “(y/n)?” Ezio called, his tone clear with some suspicion at the dark room which greeted him. “Is this a game, Mi amore?” His tone more amused, you felt your heart drop, why couldn't he sense something was wrong, or at least unusual.  

The fall of his foot light as he entered the room, his attention soon falling upon you, tied to the chair, bound and gagged you looked at him, eyes brimming with caution, attempting to speak warnings behind your gag but no more than misheard muffles emerged.

“(y/n)? What happened?” He immediately rushed forward to you, his brows creased in worry.

“Mhmm!” You gave a nod to behind him, as you saw the men, their weapons all drawn and in hand, emerging from their hiding.

Understanding your hint he turned to face them, drawing his own sword, his eyes darting between each man, a smirk finding it's way onto the assassins face. “Good evening, if it's me you were looking for, you might have wanted to at least introduce yourself before attempting to bludgeon me.” He taunted, addressing the captain who gripped a heavy iron mace in hand.

He tossed his head, as if shaking off Ezio's little tease, his teeth bared as he snarled a return. “Well boy, prepare to introduce yourself to God!”

“Why, signor, when it is you whom shall be meeting him first.” Ezio retorted, his free hand reaching for a small steal throwing knife, which in a fluid motion was soon embedded into the neck of the man at the captains right, severing his jugular and leaving the man to crumple to the floor, his body breaking unnaturally as he landed on the stone below. You grimaced from the unnatural sight of his limbs twisted beneath him, and the spurts of blood that now rushed out of the lethal wound.

Your eyes were soon drawn from the sight as you looked to Ezio with anxiety, he was now focused on the brute before him, both seemed to be calculating who would make the first move, while the two other thugs remained back, waiting for their own opportunities. The captain then made a sudden swing for Ezio's head, one you felt came out of nowhere, but Ezio had clearly anticipated, as he leapt aside with a confidence, you attempted to move in your seat, jumping in natural defence, though your binding was tight and any effort was worthless against it. The man continued to swing the heavy mace in hand, his breathing ragged from each fruitless motion, finally the captain swung towards Ezio's shoulder, your teeth clenched as you watched helplessly, the assassin lunged away and in one short action, plunged his blade into his opponents side,  forcing a bitter groan and blood from the man's mouth, before his body shrugged to the ground with surprising haste.

You moaned behind your gag as you watched one man approach Ezio with his sword, taking no pause before he made a swing for the assassin, whom drew his blade swiftly from the other man's body, a deathly red now gripping the steel, spinning it skilfully in his hand, the flat side now exposed to parry the others blow, their blades clashing like angry dogs lost in a fight, meeting in one snarling moment, teeth bared and locked in their attack, before both men darted aside, their eyes assessing the others moves, the thug made another swing for Ezio, and in that hacking motion, as his sword failed to meet it's mark and pulled towards the ground, he was exposed, allowing Ezio the room to dart in and deliver the finishing blow.    

“Mhmm!” You flinched in your chair as you watched the greatest coward of the group now step out, a crude and particularly menacing flail in hand, hanging heavily on it's rusted bonds, wrought with pig iron, with three inch protruding spines that jutted uncomfortably from the poorly forged metal. You watched in fresh panic, gathering sweat in your palms as you found your eyes transfixed  upon the cruel weapon. Ezio stepped back, concern visible in the young man's eyes, as they darted from his opponent to his weapon. The brutish man swung the cumbersome weapon towards Ezio, it's spiked ball smashing the wall as Ezio narrowly avoided the blow, clumps of masonry were crumpled away from the impact, crumbling to the ground in dusty hazes. He swung the weighty weapon again and again, each blow Ezio jumped back from, only getting closer to the other wall, you looked on with a thundering heart, your eyes stinging from staring, unblinking, you didn't dare take your eyes away from Ezio in this moment, knowing that he was always one wrong move away from death. The man swung the heavy flail, the weight of the weapon practically spinning him, and it was then Ezio leapt close, clutching his blades hilt in both hands, knuckles white from the tight grip, as he plunged his blade in a hard, final thrust, a blow that was finishing and shuddering to drag the life instantly from his enemy, the blade rode up deeply into the man's vitals and destroyed his insides, ripping the life from him. The assassins hands slipped from the blades grip and the man's body collapsed to the ground, Ezio's fine blade still embroiled with his innards, as his gambeson held back any spilling blood.

You felt relief and revolution wash through you, you eyes turned to Ezio, who's face softened as he turned to face you, he hurried to remove the gag, placing smothering kisses all over your face. “I'm so sorry.” He mumbled against your cheek. “Are you hurt?” He questioned, concern swelling in his eyes as he glanced over you for sign of injury.

“No, no I'm fine, just a little shaken up.” You reassured.

“You're sure?” He pressed, as he quickly moved behind the chair to untie your hands, the rope slumping to the floor in a coiled pile.

You only nodded, pulling your hands up and rubbing your wrists, now slightly raw from the ropes abuse.

“We should leave.” Ezio urged, resting a hand on your shoulder.

“Do you think more will come?” You asked, your voice was shaky and your limps still trembled from the nights events.

“No, not tonight, it will take whomever their contacts are some time to learn of what has happened, and by the time they do, you and I will be long gone.”

“What? Where?” You questioned.

He looked at you for a moment, his eyes looked strained and his face looked older somehow, stress lines more visible, the usual smirk he wore was replaced with lips almost nervous to offer their words. “(y/n), I wanted to ask you for sometime, to...return to Monteriggioni with me, I was going to ask you for myself, I wanted you closer, but now, it seems I have placed you in danger....at least there, you will be safe.” His eyes turned towards the floor, guilt reflecting in them.

“Ezio, this isn't your fault!” You protested, standing briskly to take his hands in your own.

His eyes searched yours for a second, but they turned away darkly. “Yes...it is.” He said finally.

“Ezio, it isn't.  I'm only sorry that you almost...well...tonight might have ended differently.” You sighed.

A slight gleam returned to his eyes as he cocked a brow. “They were only ruffians, not exactly my greatest challenge.” He teased, reinstalling some humour to the moment.

You rolled your eyes and smiled.

“So, um...” Ezio folded his arms, biting his lip as he looked at you. “...Monteriggioni, you know I would be happier if I knew you were safe.”

“Oh well, leaving this place will be saddening.” You mocked, glancing about the poor dwellings you called home.

He cocked his head as the corners of his lips turned to a smirk. “Is that a yes?”

Nodding quickly as you whispered. “Of course.”

“Oh mi amore!” He exclaimed, you giggled as you found yourself quickly enveloped between his arms as he twirled you about, before holding you close, air light kisses warming your cheeks.

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

The first pale flush of dawn was visible in the sky over  Monteriggioni when you finally arrived, gentle pinks retreating from the clear blue. Your arms were wrapped snugly around Ezio's waist as he nudged the horse on toward the stables that lay outside the walls.

The streets of Monteriggioni were quieter than that of Florence, but still packed with their own active hum of sounds and the bustle of passers by. Ezio kept his fingers entwined with your own as you wove through the people towards his uncles villa, and though you had only met Mario upon a few occasions, you knew the man well enough to feel confident that he would not mind your unexpected intrusion.

“Nipote!” Mario boomed as you arrived through the doors, marching briskly over to greet you. “And (y/n)! I did not know you were coming, I would have had the cook prepare something decent to eat, or have the steps polished, had I known to expect guests, but oh well, what matters is you're here, and fine to see you it is! Though still Ezio you should let me know if you're bringing a lady-”

“Came down uncle, I actually need to speak with you.” Ezio interrupted, his hands raising to prevent any sequel to Mario's ramble.  

“Oh, well.” Mario rubbed his chin in thought, looking at the two of you.

“Maybe, in your study?” Ezio suggested.

“Si, si.” He walked on, and Ezio followed, glancing over his shoulder to smile back to you, before disappearing through a door.  

You stood quietly, looking down at your shoes for what seemed like the longest ten minutes of your life, before your eyes flickered about the grand hall, such a display of splendour was beautiful,  pieces of architecture only conceived in the minds of talented masons surrounded you, richly coloured painting, the creations of Italy's finest artists, accenting each neutral wall, your attention was only drawn when you heard approaching footsteps, Mario, followed by Ezio.  

You looked to the men before you and raised a brow at their silence.

“Ezio has told me...” Mario began, pausing for a moment, his straight lips giving nothing away. “...it seems you will be staying here, so,” he hesitated again, allowing concern to become visible on your face, before his tight expression cracked into a smile. “welcome to the family, my girl!” He chuckled and pulled you into a gripping embrace, lifting you off the ground in the motion.

“Uncle, I didn't say we were getting married, I just want (y/n) to be safe here.” Ezio intervened, trying to cool his uncle excitement.

Mario only waved him off, finally releasing you from his chocking 'hug', “Nonsense Ezio, you give it time.”

“Time?” Ezio questioned.

“Oh a few days or so.” Mario mumbled, giving a warm hearty laugh once more, before leaving you and Ezio alone.

Ezio sighed and inched the bridge of his nose. “I almost forgot how....overwhelming, uncle is.”

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

The next day had arisen with fair weather, you had spent your time in the grounds about the villa, and exploring the many rooms, it was your birthday, though you doubted anyone here knew, and it was indeed unlikely that, with everything that had happened, Ezio himself would remember. So you amused yourself while Ezio trained, and later discussed matters of some importance with Mario.

“(y/n), (y/n), mi amore?” Ezio's voice was distant, but loud enough to draw your attention from the ageing afternoon sun. “There you are, bella.” Walking to your side he tucked an arm around your waist. “I'm sorry we haven't had much time together, it's just with Mario, he expects a great deal sometimes, and I-.”

“Ezio,” you cut him off, gently placing a finger across his lips, “don't worry about it, I've just been learning my way around.”

“Oh, va bene, if you're sure, but still, hopefully tomorrow will be much quieter.” He rested his chin against your hair, in the warmth of the sun, with only the soft bird song and your mingled breaths, you allowed your eyes to slip shut and simply listen, the cluttered noise of the city seemed distant now, as did your worries, here, tucked away in the gardens, everything seemed at some understanding, prehaps the closet thing to peace you had felt in a long time.

“I want you to meet me here, at sunset, alright?” Ezio whispered, before you could even think to respond, he kissed your hair and left.

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

All the shapes and forms of buildings and trees were glazed in a delicate rose gold now, the sky was blushed in hues of pinks and golds as the sun began to melt from the horizon, thin clouds, tired of their days journey, lay contentedly in the last of heat of the day.

You inhaled deeply as you walked through the gardens, admiring the lustrous pink of the bougainvillea that lounged across the walls, every branch was laden with bountiful vibrant petals, the evening air was laced with their perfume, as well as the heavy sent of jasmines, oleanders and aquilegias, with the faces of each flower reflecting the suns final glow, their petals already shrinking inwards in preparation for the chill night air.  

You found Ezio standing and waiting for you, his hands were rested behind his back and his face was illuminated by the final light of the day, bringing forth the honey tones that flecked his brown eyes. “Good evening, amore.” You greeted softly.

He immediately smiled and handed a single red rose to you. “Good evening, bella.” He returned, his tone low and as soft as the petals of the rose you now held. “Happy Birthday.” He added, giving you a cheeky, almost boyish, smirk.

“You remembered?”

“Of course.”

“And you left me all day believing you had forgotten!” Your folded your arms and pressed your lips to a tight pout.

He chuckled for a moment, before tucking his arms around you. “I know, I know,” he paused to kiss your cheeks, smiling in sympathy, “and I'm sorry, but I wanted to make tonight really special.”

Your pout melted to a small smile, and soon you felt Ezio swoop you down, holding you just above the ground before he kissed you, despite the way his lips pressed tentatively to yours at first, in a chaste and simple display of affection, you both lingered in that moment, pulling away for a short time, before his lips pressed more demandingly to yours, your eyes slipping shut as you tilted your head back, your weight resting in your lovers arms. You moaned slightly as he deepened the kiss, your hands hung limp at your sides for a moment, before you slowly raised them to tangle your fingers through his hair. Ezio's tongue brushed your lips, encouraging you to part them as you moaned again from this pleasant invasion, his tongue mapped out every crease of your mouth, stealing every breath from you.  He pulled away, leaving you panting and giggling as you were pulled back up to your feet, and you let your eyes sweep around. “Well, we have the most beautiful sunset, a single rose, and we're alone, I think you succeeded.”  

“Oh not quite yet.” He winked, taking your hand and leading you around to the back of the villa, a ladder was resting against the roof, which Ezio lead you to. “Just up here.” He urged, glancing back to you as you both climbed.

Helping you up, he stood back with obvious pride and allowed your eyes to fall upon the picnic basket and blanket that rested in the last shimmering light of the day, like a rose wine the colours of the sunset spilled over everything, and from here you could truly see just how it stained the entire city and land beyond in the same beautiful hue. “Oh Ezio, it's beautiful, and a picnic? This is adorable.” You said, clasping your hands together, and though you were delighted with his kindness, you did feel a touch of guilt that you had been annoyed at his 'forgetting,' when despite everything he had arranged all of this for you.

You sat at his side on the lemon blanket, biting your lower lip as you looked to the wickerwork basket, and small selection of gifts, all wrapped in cornflower blue paper. “As much as I spent a long time wrapping them to look so neat and grazioso, I did intend for you to open them” Ezio said, eyeing the packages with amusement.

You smiled. “Oh, of course.” You smiled sheepishly, taking one present slowly, feeling the soft thin paper with care.  

You passed time opening each gift, perhaps the most intriguing of which was an amulet, it hung on a thin gold chain and was crafted with a jewel that Ezio told you was called 'tigers eye', which appeared as melted chocolate with rivers of honey, hanging from the chain like a frozen droplet of hazel syrup. “Do you like it?” He murmured against your ear, his warm breath sending little shivers   down through your body.

“Yes, yes I do, Ezio this was all so thoughtful, thank you.” You turned to him, words running happily from your tongue, before he silenced you with a short kiss.

“Your welcome.” He whispered against your lips.

You leaned away slowly. “Maybe now is a good time to open the basket.” You teased.

“Si, maybe.” He agreed with a small smirk, leaning forward slightly to flick the latch up and then open the little hampers lid.  

You peered curiously inside, two bottles of wine lay wrapped in towels, along with a plump loaf of sweet bread, a jar of honey, with a selection of fresh berries in differing hues of reds and violets, accompanied by biscotti, a chocolate crostata and a fresh cream cake. “Oooh there's so much...” You remarked, “wait, how did you manage this?” You questioned suddenly, turning to face him.

“I begged, really begged, that grouchy old cook of Mario's, and she helped me prepared everything.” He explained, with emphasis upon his 'begging'.

“How sweet.” You smiled.

“I know, now, red or white?”

“Hmm?”

“The wine, I bought one white, and one red, which take you fancy, mi amore?”

“Red, please.” You chimed, leaning back as you watched him fill two glasses with the rich fruity liquid, watching the suns final light kindling the wine to a burning crimson.

You took the glass with thanks. “Grazie.”

“Happy Birthday, (y/n).” He said, raising his glass to your own.

This is a little something for the wonderful :iconmeineherzeleid: birthday! I really hope you enjoyed this, lovely! (And I'm sorry it's a little late getting uploaded.) :glomp: :tighthug: :squee: 

Now everyone, the two tragic points of this story are; Ezio packs weird picnics – I mean where are the cucumber sticks, and the jam tarts? And, this is the second story I have named with a wine referenced in the title lol. Blue Blush 

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Comments5
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TheMurmaider's avatar
For me?! :faint: You really truly are amazing my friend! Charmander la plz 
The story was absolutely amazingly, full of detail and feelings. I think I've fainted. :excited: I could really sense the danger and panic at the beginning, then the love at the end.
Bravo! Your writing is fantastic. Llama Emoji-23 (Shyness) [V1] 
Thank you so much for the story. Bunny Emoji-87 (Thanks) [V5] It definitely was a nice surprise and a good pick me.