Yet Serena had her own reputation abroad. "Thank you, Prof. Monet," she replied. "I anticipated your visit and have a special gift for you, in honor of your passion for art."

A bodyguard approached, presenting an exquisitely crafted pearwood case. Serena began to unveil her gift, but Leonardo interrupted with a raised hand, "My visit today is to enjoy the art on display. Gifts are unnecessary."

He studied a painting that captured an expansive seascape with towering waves beneath an azure sky.