Claudia learns more about Girolamo

"We both grew in the outskirts of Roma. My family were poor farmers. Her mother was a taylor, her father... she never met him. We used to play on the fields together as young children."

"So you were friends? That's interesting. How did you both end up in the city, being what you are now?"

"When the Borgia came into power, bandits started to roam the farmlands. My family lost everything and they decided to migrate to Toscana. I came in the city and became an apprentice to a carpenter. I was 15 years old back then. Sofia was sent to her aunt in the Centro, but she passed away a couple of years later."

"Yes, I did know Sofia was an orphan. She was in the streets and eventually turned to prostitution. Luckily she has it better in the Rosa in Fiore under my care. How was it my brother recruited you again?"

"After spending some years as apprentice, I rose to be an actual carpenter. Things had started to go well for me, until one day some Borgia guards came to my workshop and demanded I built some furniture for them for free. When I refused they attacked. I was fighting them off with a dagger, but I was outnumbered. Fortunately, mesere Ezio was passing by and he intervened. He saved my life. I joined the Assassins for training and now I am a member of the Order."

Claudia was listening with great interest. "Then you do understand the importance of protecting the weak. My girls for instance."

"I do madona. I did look out for Sofia when we were both new in the city. I tried to make sure no harm would befall her, while she was on the streets. I even provided for her at certain occasions. But one day I lost track of her. It turns out some thugs took advantage of her and had her sell her body. I only rediscovered her a few months ago, when the Mentor mentioned some courtesans who assisted him. I rejoiced when I saw her again. She is a good friend."

"Well, you certainly seem to be much more than friends, Girolamo." Claudia said with a naughty smirk.

"Yes, there have been moments of passion between us, but we never were together."

"Passion is only natural. You are both young and attractive."

"Thank you, madona Auditore."

"Call me Claudia." she said as she sat right next to him.