THE ALLIANCE

By Eliza
elizawpg@shaw.ca

CATEGORY/RATING: NC17 (Slash&Het) Montoya/OMC, Montoya/OFC

DISCLAIMER: All characters from The Queen of Swords are copyrighted by the producers, Fireworks Productions and Paramount. No infringement or revenue is intended. The story plot is original and copyright to the author.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS: A big thank you to Rach and brig for all their work and input to this story. They are betas from heaven.

SERIES: The first of the Empress Series.

SUMMARY:  Colonel Luis Montoya faces a ghost from his past -- that may also destroy his future.

NOTE: Revised May, 2001.  Looking at my first effort six months later I can see that it needs a bit of work.  However, I am not ready to do a serious rewrite so I have changed a word here, a comma there, and added and deleted a few sentences.  But still watch out for the sharp POV shifts, I don't want anyone to hurt themselves.

Reyes descended from the coach that had been home to him for far too long.  A tour of all of the pueblos of the Spanish Colony in Alta California was not a pleasant prospect, but given his position as new governor of the area he could not afford to miss any little town.  However, it was worth the effort to see Luis Montoya so unnerved; Reyes couldn't read minds but he knew this man well enough.

"Here is a surprise for you, Luis -  I have had the pleasure of my daughter's company for this tour.  Katerina, I don't think you would remember Luis Montoya. Colonel now, isn't it?"

Montoya bridled at Reyes over familiarity as a lovely young woman alit from the coach.  Her dark blond hair was coiled on her head to help keep her cool in the autumn heat; her deep brown eyes seemed to be the only feature inherited from her father.

She should be 18 now, noted Montoya.  He bowed low over the girl's hand. "It is a great pleasure to have your company, Senorita.  You are as beautiful as the first time I saw you."

"Only as beautiful," she said with an expression that he recognized immediately, "not more so?"  So, she had inherited more than the eyes.

Reyes was grinning over his daughter's shoulder, but Montoya was not the same inexperienced, impetuous youth of their former acquaintance.  He knew how to handle this. "You were about three years old and running across the training field to your father's arms, sunlight shining off of your hair, cheeks rosy, and with an angelic smile of pure delight.  I had never seen such an enchanting creature and never expected to see one again.  Today, I have been proven wrong."

Another bow and a feather light kiss at her knuckles brought the hint of a smile to Katerina's lips.  This was not what she had come to expect of the colonial military men.  Stutters and awkward compliments were the standard fare, but this one had elegance and a sharp mind.  She looked askance at her father, whose grin had faded to a small, calculating smile.  He simply met her gaze.

Montoya made an offer of rest and refreshment and indicated his home.  Just as they were starting toward the shade and cool wine they paused at the sound of hoof beats.  A large grey entered the square in a cloud of dust.  It was slightly lathered from its extended run but was still prancing spiritedly as came to a stop, a truly magnificent animal. The rider slid off the horse and strode toward the group.  A look of irritation crossed Montoya's face but was quickly gone as the consummate host again took over.

"Governor Reyes, Senorita, may I present the Captain of the Guard, Marcus Grisham.  Captain, this is Senor Juan Sanchez Reyes d'Avila, governor of the colony for His Majesty, King Ferdinand, and his daughter Katerina."

"Governor," Grisham saluted smartly, "Senorita," a polite nod and a slight bow, "If you will excuse me?" He turned to Colonel Montoya.

"Is it urgent?" Montoya cut in curtly.

Grisham must have sensed the tension and threw a quick glance at the new arrivals. "Important but not urgent.  I will be in my office when you have a moment, Colonel." With a final bow to the party, he withdrew.

Montoya's estimation of his captain rose a notch.

The trio had reached the shade of the house when a feminine voice caught their attention, saying, "Colonel Montoya, don't tell me you are going to keep new visitors to our little pueblo all to yourself."  All turned to witness the approach of two young noblewomen, one dark and one fair, but equal in beauty and grace.

"Senora Hidalgo, It is precisely because they are so newly arrived that I would give them the opportunity to rest and refresh themselves.  But at this moment introductions are in order."  Montoya gave full honours to Vera Hidalgo and Tessa Alvarado in his introductions to the Reyes.

"Senora Hidalgo and I are headed to the cantina.  It is a pleasant spot with ample shade and cool drink.  We would welcome Senorita Reyes' company if she wishes to join us after she has recovered from her journey," said Tessa,  the chestnut crowned lady obviously anxious for some gossip from Spain.

Katerina's eyes lit up, and a look to her father asked for his assent, which was given.  "Thank you.  That is a gracious offer.  After removing some of the dust of travel, I accept.  Some gentle company would be a welcome change," said Katerina.  She seemed not to notice her father's darkening brow as they took leave of the ladies and turned again to the house.

"There is a maid who may escort you, Senorita Reyes," said Montoya.  "She will also be at your service for the duration of your stay.  Please inform her if there is anything you need; we were not prepared for a lady's arrival."   Once he had escorted his guests to a comfortable room supplied with refreshments,  he left them to inform Emilia of her new duties.

As soon as their host was out of hearing Reyes turned to his daughter, his voice steadily rose in anger as he said,  "Are we starting this again?  This whole trip has been nothing but insinuating remarks and veiled accusations.  Do you really want to make me lose my patience?"

"Do you really want to make me marry that milk sop?  Did you think I would be pleased tied to that pale excuse of a man?  I deserve better than that!"  Katerina's volume had continue to lower so that her last remark was almost a growl and distinctly a threat.

"You will not shame me!" Reyes' tone had dropped to match his daughter's and at this moment there was no question of familial ties.   Father and daughter glared at each other with promises in their eyes.

Upon his return, Montoya observed the scene and heard the last phrase. He was hearted to see antagonism not aimed at him and thought, Maybe they will be so busy battling each other that I may survive this unscathed.  He waited a moment before clearing his throat and announcing his presence.  As the combatants turned their attention to him their faces attempted to regain the polite social mask, but only Katerina succeeded.  Montoya accompanied his guests to their chambers, introducing Katerina to her lady's maid. As Reyes admired the view from his room, Montoya made his retreat. "Captain Grisham seemed to have some important information for me. I would speak with him now, if you have no further need of me?"

"I always have need of you, Luis, but I fear that you may have little of me," said Reyes as he turned to face his host.  The hint of a dare on Reyes' face was so familiar, from a life Montoya had left behind 15 years before, and the goading tone designed to incite a strong reaction in him. "Have you forgotten what we were or have you replaced all that passion with regret and caution?"

"Forgotten, no, and regrets are wasted effort.   But I have suffered enough for not thinking beyond the moment, Juan.  I will not go through that again." With this calm declaration Montoya left the house to find his captain.

*-*-*-*-*

Captain Grisham was in his office/quarters, as he said he would be.  He had removed the layer of dirt that had followed him in from his last encounter with the Queen of Swords.  Perhaps encounter was not the right word; they had never been close enough to the vigilante.

"You have news for me, Captain?  Or are you going to tell me the Queen of Swords continues to plague our fair town, which would not be news to me."  Montoya was not in the mood for excuses.

"As you guessed, she made another attempt to sabotage the mining operation early this morning. We chased her far into the desert and the men are still out trying to find signs of her.  I thought that you might want a progress report." Grisham was tired, hungry, and not in the mood for Montoya's sarcasm.

"But there hasn't been any progress - there is nothing to report.  I have important guests, Grisham, I cannot afford to be distracted by the incompetence of the guard." Montoya took an appraising look at Grisham. " And another thing, you will treat Senorita Reyes with the utmost respect."

"Of course Colonel, I would never think of treating her as anything but a lady," Grisham replied.

The tone was respectful, but Montoya saw the flash of rebellion in Grisham's eyes and he could not afford to have his captain asserting his independence at this time.  Not unless I want his body parts spread all over the square.  That was a tempting thought.

Montoya moved very close to Grisham, something he never did, and when he spoke his voice was soft, low and impossible to ignore. "Marcus, I am going to make this very clear and an order: keep your hands, and anything else, off of Katerina Reyes.  Now, if you disobey this order it will be treason and I will shoot you.  Her father would have done it anyway, but now I will be able to make it an execution.  Do not let your pride or your cock control your actions. Do you understand?"

The look in the hard, blue eyes held Grisham absolutely still.  He now knew what a cobra's prey felt like. "Completely, sir." He managed to speak normally.

The spell was broken and Montoya moved toward the door. "I doubt that, but I will settle for adequately.  And Grisham, make sure the Queen of Swords doesn't cause any trouble in town.  You can chase her through the desert all you want, but I do not want Governor Reyes knowing anything about her."

*-*-*-*-*

Returning to his home, Montoya was told that Reyes had requested wine and to be informed of his return. "I will see the governor myself," he said.  Turning to his desk, he wrote a couple of notes and handed them to his servant. "Take these immediately to Captain Grisham and Doctor Helm, and inform the cook that dinner will proceed according to plan."

As the servant left, Montoya tried to think of anything else to delay the audience. This was the moment he had dreaded since first being informed of the identity of the new governor.  They had met while Luis was Captain of the Guard on the Galvez estate. It had been a prestigious position, for General Galvez had liked to retain men and officers from the Spanish army for his personal staff.  His daughter, Antonia, had arrived with her husband and two children and she had stayed through her confinement with her third child.  Juan Sanchez Reyes, her husband, would pass the time on the training ground with the Guard and it was here that the friendship between the men developed.  Friendship, was it ever truly a friendship?  If it once was, it never could be again that much was certain.

He couldn't put this off any longer.  The tap to the door was answered with a sharp, "Enter."

Juan was sitting by the window with a glass of wine and what looked like reports from his inspection tour so far.  He waved Luis into a nearby chair. "Spain likes to think she has control over all of her colonies, but more and more are slipping through her fingers.  As long as the reports keep coming she will ignore California, and since there is so little support coming for Spain, California will increasingly ignore her.  You know this, don't you, Luis.  That is why you have established yourself here, isn't it?"

"I came here because there was nothing for me in Spain.  Someone was generous enough to recommend me for this post and I have made the best of it."

"Nothing for you in Spain?"

"Nothing that would have been of any advantage to me," said Luis.

Juan put aside the reports and lifted his glass. "To the birth of the mercenary.  The vocation suits you, Luis.  You always had a gift for breaking a situation into its most basic components, cutting straight to the heart of the matter."  He drained the glass and stood to walk the room.

Luis had to restrain himself from turning to watch Juan pace.  It went against every instinct to let this man out of his sight in such close quarters.   When hands came to rest on his shoulders, his heart started to race but that was the only sign of his disquiet.  He concentrated on the voice that came from so close behind him. "Now that you are working to please only yourself, what is it that you want?" asked Juan.

That was a frighteningly loaded question.  There was only one way to answer. "To rule the world."

Laughter came from behind him and the hands gave a brief squeeze before letting go.  Juan moved back to the other chair. "Why does that not surprise me?  You were never one to settle for anything less than all." Juan rested his elbows on his knees, leaning forward "You could have had all, why did you not take what was offered?"

Anger was rising, that was the one emotion Juan was guaranteed to evoke.  The difficulties came with the others that sometimes followed.  Not this time, Luis was not going to let Juan manipulate him anymore.  He replied in the cool voice he had perfected in the nine years since leaving Spain, "What I was offered was a stagnating career in Barcelona or a reflection of a life as your shadow and whipping boy."

Juan paused for a moment, as if searching for the reference, then he said, "That man was under your command and you were meting out the punishment.  If it went too far how is that my fault?"

"You were not there practically salivating at the sight of blood and pain?  You were not virtually whispering in my ear, goading me for one more lash, just one more scream of agony?  You were not tempting me with the lust in you eyes and in your voice?  I wonder who that was?  The results of that event were quite exceptional." Hell! Taunting Juan Sanchez was never a wise manoeuvre no matter how polite the tone.  Especially with a polite tone.  He had to get control of his impulses, but that was so difficult to do once they were running free again. Merde! Juan is pleased.

"So it was, I didn't think you remembered." Juan moved to stand in front of Luis' chair and placed his hands on the arm as he leaned in.

Luis forced himself to maintain eye contact. "I told you I hadn't forgotten.   I remember everything; the good, the bad and the disastrous results."

"You're exaggerating," said Juan, with a smirk.

"AM I?" The words were full of hate and rage, the vehemence surprising Luis himself.

Juan retreated a little but maintained his position in front of the chair. He said, "We are in a new land, with few to account to.  We are the power here and it would be beneficial if we could work together, towards a common goal." Juan's eyes were warming with a tantalizing light. He leaned in again so that Luis could feel the heat from Juan's face close to his cheek and heard the whispered offer, "We could rule the world."

A surge of heat went through Luis but he managed to douse it. "Send me your plans and an estimated timetable and I will see if it works for me."

The flip reply brought Juan back with a start.  This was an aspect of Luis that he hadn't encountered before and was not quite sure how to proceed.  The hot-headed, passionate, impulsive youth he knew had been replaced by this cool, calculating, self-possessed man.  But he had seen the fury in those blue eyes, if only for a moment.  The fire was still there and having it encased in such an immaculate package made the temptation even greater.  Juan realized they could not just pick up where they left off, he would have to get to know this man all over again.  It was not an unattractive prospect.

"Better you give me your timetable, Colonel," and so the Governor was back in meeting with his regional commander. "I believe I heard mention of a dinner tonight with your staff.  Katerina will be most pleased. Between the invitation this afternoon and more company this evening it may even satisfy her thirst for society. "

*-*-*-*-*

Captain Grisham couldn't sleep.  Fortunately, being the captain meant he could walk the pueblo without anyone questioning his presence.  He was checking the sentries; he was pacing is what he was doing.

Montoya is a sadistic son of a bitch. Telling me to stay away from Katerina Reyes and then inviting -- ordering -- me to dinner with the new arrivals.  Of course Grisham hadn't been able to keep his eyes off of her.  The candle light had caught the dark gold in her hair; the heat of the season had brought a faint sheen to the pale curve of her breast; her soft features had seemed ready to smile, particularly when the brown eyes turned his way; and he was behaving like a love struck school boy. Stop it. She is just a girl. A beautiful, graceful, intelligent, very, very off limits girl.

The captain hated to be told what to do in his personal life.   As a soldier he would accept it, but the rest of his life was his own business.  Although the sight of her father, who had caught one of her glances to him, was rather unnerving.  Maybe Montoya was doing him a favour.   Governor Reyes seemed an intimidating man; maybe on better acquaintance he became truly  frightening.  This was a man who knew the training field and whose skin was already acquiring the golden patina that all seemed to gain after time in the California sun. As tall as Grisham though slightly heavier in build, the dark hair and eyes brought a certain hardness to already sharp features.  Grisham was certain that a smile would not be a comfort coming from this man.

"It is a beautiful night for a walk, Captain.  Would you mind if I join you?  We could watch the moon rise." The voice that had been haunting his thoughts all evening came from the shadows between two buildings at the edge of the square, just out of sight of Montoya's residence. "It is just coming over the mountains now, in a short while there will be too much light for tarrying in a public square." She came partially out of the shadows and Grisham saw she had exchanged her rich dress for a plain one, although the dark cloth was of good quality. He caught his breath at the next detail he noticed -- no corset. Oh, oh.

"Senorita Reyes, it is dangerous for a lady to be out alone," said Grisham with every intention of escorting Katerina home.

"Then be my protector, Captain.  Surely you know of some place safe and private where we can watch ... the moon ... rise." With this thinly veiled suggestion came a smile that was entirely unsuitable for an unmarried lady of her station.  She had been moving closer to him.  With her tawny hair, he was reminded of one of the wild cats he had seen in the canyons, the kind that could pounce on you unawares.

Pounce... Grisham brought himself back to the problem at hand, almost literally at hand. "Senorita Katerina, I don't think you know what you are doing. Your father..."

He was immediately cut off.  "My father," the two words were spat out but her voice quickly reverted to the smooth, seductive tones that had been resonating through Grisham's nervous system all night, "knows nothing about me, nor does he care to." Katerina stepped closer again and Grisham's legs hit the back of a watering trough; any farther back he was going for a swim.  Katerina pressed her advantage, and her breasts, against Grisham's chest. He brought his chin up to avoid looking at her but he could still smell her -  roses and lavender. Her breath played across his throat as she whispered to him, "But I know a lot about you, Marcus.  Ladies need not speak of such things openly. So much can be said with a look, tone of voice, choice of words.  And the lower classes do have a tendency to be a little more open and will talk to be friendly to a stranger."

Damn, thought Grisham, I knew that fucking Montoya's new maid was a mistake. The colonel had made his orders very clear and this woman was scaring him a little. Which is rather exciting.  No! Stop thinking and follow orders!

"I am afraid, Senorita, that you have a mistaken impression of me.  I am a soldier, I follow orders -- one such order is to stay far away from you." Oh shit, that was far too blunt. He looked at her expecting outrage but, much to Grisham's surprise, the lady smiled, a true smile.

She said, "And you take your orders from Colonel  Montoya alone do you not?" Grisham's reluctant nod confirmed the statement. Katerina stepped away and without another word made her way back to the Montoya residence.

"Nice disengagement, Captain."  The voice came from the shadows near the doctor's office.

Now that Grisham looked he could see a lean form reclining within the door way.  "You make it sound like a military manoeuvre, Doctor," said Grisham trying  not to sound breathless.

Dr. Helm stood upright and took a few steps toward Grisham and into the brightening moonlight. "I know a woman in full battle dress when I see one.  That one is out for blood." He indicated the direction Katerina had taken with a nod of his head.

Grisham was surprised. "Why? I hardly know her."

"Not yours, Captain.  You were just a tactic.  She will find another way to her target.  A woman who is that motivated must have a very personal score to settle."

Grisham thought for a moment, going over the conversation. "Her father." Yes, that seemed right.  "What would possess a woman to cross swords, even metaphorical ones, with that man?  Even the colonel is wary of him."

"You know what they say about falling apples," said Helm with a wry smile, then he went back inside.

Grisham took a long look at the door Katerina had entered.  Montoya had expressed a strong desire to acquire cannons but how would he handle an artillery barrage wrapped in silk.   If he was to be the next one to be caught in the cross fire of Katerina's apparent war with her father then Grisham almost felt pity for his colonel.

Almost.

*-*-*-*-*

The next day proceeded without incident.  Montoya and the governor went over the taxes and finances for the small garrison, which was, of course, woefully under funded.  The main diversion for the day was the preparation for a party that evening.  With new faces in attendance all of the local dons and their families would be sure to attend.

The party was well under way and Marta was standing discreetly in a doorway on the edge of the crowd keeping a close eye on her mistress, Tessa Alvarado, in case she was needed.  Tessa did not need a protector or, in this company, a chaperone but Marta always liked to know what her Tessita was doing.

"It is a shame that the most beautiful woman in the room is forced to remain in the shadows." The smooth voice came from behind her close to her ear.  She knew immediately to whom it belonged  but couldn't help the shiver that went down her spine.

"Doctor!" Marta feigned shock in order to cover her slight blush.

"Please Senorita, don't tell me you are one of those women who take the slightest compliment as an indecent proposal."  Doctor Helm sounded dismayed but there was humor in his eyes and he couldn't keep the smile from his lips. The two had developed a friendly, though professional, relationship since an explosion had destroyed the doctor's office;  Marta had been assisting him in replacing his medicines with local sources.  This level of playfulness in him was something new.

Bemused, Marta said, "Flirting -- another skill to add to that rapidly growing list of yours, Doctor.  You seem in a particularly good mood tonight.  I thought you disliked parties?"

"I have it on good authority that this one may be more interesting than usual." He indicated the visitors now in conversation with Tessa.

Marta nodded in acknowledgment. "Although it would be difficult for them to get less so."

This actually brought laughter from the doctor and caught the attention of Katerina.  "Who is that talking to your servant?" Katerina whispered to Tessa.

"That is Doctor Helm.  He's English," Tessa said, as if that fact explained all.

"Maybe so, but still worthy of better company than a servant.  Introduce me." The last was said with anticipation and Tessa seemed momentarily inclined to refuse but Katerina was already leading her toward the doctor.

At their approach, Helm immediately turned his attention to the two ladies, but Marta saw the reluctance.  It was as if he had agreed to play by the rules of society even if he didn't completely approve of them.

Tessa smiled at the doctor and Marta in greeting, before saying, "Katerina, may I introduce Doctor Robert Helm?  Doctor Helm, Senorita Katerina Reyes."

Helm bowed over the offered hand, as Katerina commented, "You seem to be enjoying the evening, Doctor?"

"And it is getting better by the moment, Senorita."  The smile faded from his face as he saw Montoya discreetly motioning for him to be introduced to the governor. "However it is taking a brief  downturn.  Colonel Montoya is taking me away from your charming company to introduce me to your father.  Senorita Reyes,  Senorita Alvarado." He quickly glanced at Marta and she was sure he would have winked at her if it wouldn't have stretched propriety so thin.  Who knew the man had such a capacity for mischief?  And it seemed to be contagious.

"The doctor is in fine form tonight, is he not, Senorita?" Marta's comment was directed at Tessa but she briefly caught Katerina's eye and the young woman was quick to catch onto the game.

"And such remarkable features, those eyes particularly.  Is he always so charming, Tessa?" said Katerina, casting an appreciative eye at Helm's back.

"His manners seemed to have improved of late but I see nothing remarkable about him tonight." The tone was too casual. "It is a good thing we came over; there would have been some talk if he had been seen whispering in the corner with you too long.  You know better than that Marta."

Tessa walked away with Katerina, the later sending Marta a quick grin over her shoulder.  Marta was amused but also a little peeved; sometimes Tessa played the spoiled lady too well.

*-*-*-*-*

On their way back to Governor Reyes, Tessa spotted the Hidalgos and moved to join them.  Katerina asked Tessa to make her apologies as she wished to speak to her father for a moment.  The gentlemen's conversation paused with the approach of the lady and Katerina knew it would continue on a topic at no way related to the one being previously discussed.  She let a small sigh escape as she joined the group.

"So pensive at such a lovely party, Senorita," said Helm, as if sensing escape for himself as well. "Would an invitation to dance lift your spirits?"

"If the offer is from you, Doctor, how could it not?" Smiling, she was led to the dance floor.

The polite conversation required in such a situation was initiated by Helm. "I am sorry I didn't have the opportunity to make your acquaintance earlier, Senorita." Katerina's questioning look prompted further explanation. "I was invited to dinner last night, but a medical emergency prevented me from attending."

"You're skills were of help, I hope?"

"The man will live with a nasty scar, if infection doesn't set in.  By the time I had returned I was in no state for polite company," said Helm

Katerina was almost sure this was the man she had seen with Grisham last night just after she had entered the house.  She was anxious to know if he was going to say anything, not that it mattered but she would like to be prepared.  "What time did you manage to return to town?  We seemed to stay up late into the night and would have welcomed your company."

The smile that filled Helm's  face did not reach his eyes; they were wary. "The best thing about dancing with a doctor, Senorita, is that he takes everything you say as a professional confidence."

"The soul of discretion, Doctor?" asked Katerina, just to be sure of the understanding between them.

"In this case, I think it is the best course."

They continued the dance in companionable silence until Katerina noticed that Tessa and the Hidalgos had been joined by Captain Grisham.  The impishness that had prompted her to participate in Marta's teasing of Tessa reasserted itself. "Would you mind if we rejoin Senorita Alvarado?  I feel guilty leaving her all alone," she said.

Helm sent her a sharp look which she returned with undiluted innocense.  The sound he made as he moved behind her to help manouevre through the crowd was suspiciously like a chuckle.  "Remind me to never cross you, Senorita Reyes." The comment was made in low tones for her ears only.

"You are much to shrewd to ever do that, Doctor Helm," came her equally soft reply as they approached the group. Moments later she said,  "Tessa, you haven't danced all evening. You must take the doctor as a partner."

Tessa seemed to be looking for an excuse to refuse. "You love to dance, Katerina, I can not take your partner."

"Nonsense, the captain will escort me. Won't you, Captain Grisham?" Katerina batted her eyelashes at him.

"Yes, Captain," encouraged Don Hidalgo, "make a good impression to the Senorita with the quality of gentlemen in our town.  Vera has commented that you are a fine dancer."

Helm made a formal offer to Tessa. "Senorita Alvarado, it would be my great honor if you would give me the pleasure of this dance." With a nudge from Katerina, Tessa put her hand in the doctor's and was lead to the dance floor.

Grisham had little choice but to follow suit with Katerina.  Throughout the whole dance Katerina kept up meaningless conversation with a beatific smile on her face.  Except for the moment when she spotted Marta on the edge of the crowd, then the smile turned into a wide grin and she sent the woman a wink over Grisham's shoulder.

*-*-*-*-*

Katerina was standing alone for the moment, but her expression showed that she was enjoying the evening.  The girl Montoya had been observing tonight was very different from the snarling creature he had seen facing down her father, or sophisticated woman who was doing her best to entice Grisham and enrage Reyes at diner the night before.  So many masks; Montoya was starting to wonder which was the true face or if there was another one underneath them all.  Meanwhile, it would not do to leave one of his guest standing alone, particularly the guest of honor.

"I noticed you were enjoying your dance with Captain Grisham."

"Yes, Colonel.  I was rather surprised I would.  From everything I have heard he seems to be very much the rake, but with me he was a perfect gentleman. Not even the hint of the flirtation that is most attractive in a man and flattering to a woman."

Montoya tried not to smile at the subtle hint. "Perhaps he is intimidated by the governor, your father?"

"Perhaps. Are you intimidated by him, Colonel?  You know him so much better than most here."

"You would know him best of all, Senorita."

"But how well can a child know its parent?  A child's eyes often only sees what they are shown, and what can a young child understand of the adult world when it is observed?  No, Colonel, you are the one with the greatest understanding of my father."

Although the argument was convincing Montoya did not believe her - these two were too much alike.  For moment blue eyes met dark brown and Montoya glimpsed behind her masks.  In that instant the carefree girl was back. "You haven't asked me to dance all evening, Colonel.  I hope that it was just an oversight and not deliberate avoidance."

The pretty scolding produced its sought reaction. "How remiss of me!  Senorita Reyes would you do me the honor?" Montoya offered his hand.

"With great pleasure." Katerina was again on the dance floor.  

*-*-*-*-*

It was quiet.  Montoya had retreated to his office after saying goodnight to his guests and was trying to read, to relax with his regular evening ritual.  Tonight it was being aided by a glass of cognac, something that he rarely indulged in but after spending the day with Reyes he needed it.  He kept expecting some repeat of the previous day's sparring, but business had been conducted in a professional matter and the party had proceeded without incident.  Even Grisham had behaved himself.  Maybe the gods were smiling.

He heard the door close. He had been so lost in thought that he had not heard it open.  When he looked up the phrase that sprang to mind was "tempting fate".  Katerina was leaning against the closed door in a simple, dark dress.  As she came closer he could see that it was deep green and set off her loose hair perfectly; the lack of detail only accented her natural beauty.  It was a modest cut, there was not the usual swell of flesh over the top of the bodice, and he could no longer span her waist with his hands but those curves were made more enticing be the fact there was no whalebone between them and the fabric of the gown. An ironic thought occurred to Montoya - a woman is more dangerous once she removes her armor.  He was also disappointed because he had hoped her better than this common and ill-advised rebellion, but he was inclined to humor the child, just to see how far she would take the game.

"Senorita, what brings you to me at such a late hour?  A nightmare perhaps?  Should I tuck you back into bed with some warm milk?"  The smirk that accompanied the taunting remarks was small but effective in stoking Katerina's ire.  He could see her rise to the challenge.

Katerina perched one hip on his desk and reached for the snifter of cognac, "Thank you Colonel, a bedtime drink does seem in order."  She took a small sip, just enough for the flavor to fill her mouth and wet her lips, "Wonderful, you keep an excellent cellar.  But how rude of me, stealing your glass.  Here, let me give you a taste."  She leaned forward and held the glass to his mouth tipping it so he could sample the liquor.  The fingertips of the hand under the glass gently brushed his beard, just enough to make contact.  Montoya went still, but not before he saw that Katerina had caught the slip of control, the brief spark of interest that had appeared in his eyes.

He watched her as she carefully planned her next move.  She walked behind his chair, an ornately carved monstrosity, then reached around the back and placed a blade against his collar bone with the point barely brushing his neck. She had picked up the dagger that had been left on the table behind the chair.  It was a beautiful piece of art and kept very sharp.  Montoya remained still but his eyes turned to her showing anger and fear mixed with desire; this tactic was familiar to him.  She slowly moved the tip of the blade along the edge of his collar until it had passed his ear and then flipped it into his hair, cutting the restraining ribbon.  Katerina gave him a quick grin as she pulled the ribbon away and tucked it down her bodice.

The silly little gesture replaced the anger in his eyes with humor, but that quickly turned to wariness as she continued.  Montoya had caught on to her strategy and thought, She wants to try to loosen all my restraints, does she?  This may be interesting.  The rules to this game seem to be developing on their own. His resistance was to be passive and she was to do anything it took to break his control; they were both to be silent.

The snifter was again lifted from the table but this time instead of a direct taste from the glass she dipped in her little finger and quickly sucked the cognac off.  In any other context the gesture could have seemed natural, almost innocent, but he thought the furtiveness only added to the appeal in this case. She looked at him as though she had heard the slight catch in his breathing but he couldn't be sure.  She dipped her finger in again but this time wet his lips with the spirits.  A slight relaxing of his mouth was all the reaction he would give her; no darting tongue, no extra glint in the eyes, nothing but the steady stare that had held hers since she had picked up the snifter.  She turned slightly to place it back on the desk.  He waited until her eyes briefly left his follow the path of the glass before he took a deep, but silent, breath and cleared the liquor from his lips with his tongue.  When she turned back the only difference she would see was a renewed challenge in his eyes.

She had picked up a bowl that had been sitting on the desk as she perched there again with her feet resting on the corner of his chair.  The bowl was resting in her lap filled with the first grapes of the season.  She picked the biggest one and bit into it. It was unexpectedly sweet and juicy.  She giggled as the juice ran down her hand and she quickly licked it off to keep it from spreading.  He couldn't help but focus on the pink tongue running down the length of her hand. For a moment it seemed she had forgotten that she had a task to complete until she leaned forward and fed him the other half.  She had to keep her other arm over the bowl for balance which pushed the bodice of the dress so that the neckline loosened as she leaned forward.  He kept his eyes focused on hers but it was difficult to miss the alluring view  before him.  Soft, feminine flesh was not an uncommon sight -- corsets pushed the upper curve of the breast over the neckline of most gowns -- but this was different.  With an evening gown they were fashion accessories, but this was an enticement for a sensual experience.  It was an invitation to brush his fingers over skin that was warm, soft and close -- far too close.  Katerina shared a few more grapes with him, which gave him time to think about what was being offered.  That was her mistake.

Most men would have had the desk cleared off by now, he thought and was rather proud of himself for keeping is hands on the arms of the chair.  By the way she had narrowed her eyes he could tell she was thinking something similar.  In a swift movement she deposited herself on the his lap while spreading her skirts around them both.  Now the only thing separating them was his uniform.  He could feel the heat from her thighs and she would be able to tell that her efforts were producing a reaction.  The maneouvre also brought an unexpected response, he found it very funny and had to work not to laugh out loud.  She stared at him in indignant confusion for a moment until she too saw the humor in the situation; a young girl playing at being a sophisticated seductress reduced to the tactics of a common whore.  But there was a reason why the whore got paid - her tactics usually work, and so did Katerina's.  When she turned an impish grin to him, their eyes met and the laughter slowly died.

The tone of the game shifted.  Even though the rules were still being followed the motivation was no longer clear.  He was having difficulty remembering why he had agreed to this in the first place; she was becoming very dangerous.  She hadn't really touched him except with her little finger and even now it was only her fingertips that she gently carded through his hair.  Next her attention turned to the uniform, undoing the buttons carefully to part the heavy material. Although she stroked the soft shirt underneath, the motion was without pressure. She was only getting close enough to feel the heat from his skin without crossing the barrier of actual contact.  The feather light touches were a torment.  He was used to rougher handling, careless caresses.  The focus she was giving to every detail was becoming his undoing.

She looked into his eyes, studied his face.  He knew that she prided herself with her ability to evaluate people at a glance, but she seemed to be searching for something in him.  He couldn't decide himself if he wanted her to end the games, would dare her to continue, or beg her to let him go.  Of his involuntary reaction to her there was no doubt, but she seemed wary.  It was as if she had the feeling that with one wrong move he would dump her on the floor and laugh her out of the room. It was this confusion that held them both suspended for a moment outside of time.

Again, Luis never heard the door open.

"You selfish, thieving little bitch!!" Juan Sanchez was in the room and over to the chair pulling Katerina up by her hair.  It seemed he was going to drag her out the door when he glanced back, then paused to take a longer look at Luis still sitting in his chair -  uniform half buttoned, hair gently mussed, slightly flushed and definitely aroused.  Juan turned back to his daughter with a snarl and punched her.

Luis had caught the look on her face, it was panic.  She obviously had never had her father turn on her in a full rage and hadn't expected his reaction to this.  She was quickly realizing she had missed something and was now out of her depth.  As she fell, she hit a small table by the door tipping its contents on the floor -- Luis' riding gloves and crop.  Juan spotted the crop and picked it up.  With Katerina stunned on the floor, Luis knew he had to do something or the child would be dead and he would be taking the blame.

Juan did manage to inflict half a dozen strokes before Luis surprised him, tackling him to the floor.  Katerina had regained some of her senses in spite of the pain and was watching the scene frozen in fear.  "Get out!"  Luis managed to bark at her.  It  was all the impetus she needed to make her escape.  She even had the mind to close the door. That click he heard.   Then there was only the sound of their harsh breathing, the familiarity of that brought the current situation into sharp focus.  Luis had most of his weight on the Juan's right side, the one with the crop.  He was straddling Juan's right leg with his knee between Juan's thighs.  And even with all of the adrenaline, or because of it, his erection was pressed firmly into Juan's hip.

"That thieving slut. I have wanted to do this from the moment I arrived." Juan threaded his free hand into Luis' hair and pulled him into a hard kiss.

For a moment Luis just let go, drowned in the sensations this man had always evoked; he hadn't allowed himself to do that with Katerina.  That thought kicked his survival instinct back into play.  He couldn't indulge in this with too many avenues for disaster open at the moment.  But bringing Juan back from violence induced lust was not easy.  He would have to ride it through but try to minimize the possible damage. If only I could have thought like this 15 years ago.  If he has been thinking about this for two days then it could be over fast.  Help it along, Luis, you remember how.  The kiss had ended so Luis initiated another, one that brought Juan's head back to the floor with a slight crack.  He brought his knee tight against Juan's crotch and then rubbed the length of his thigh against the partial erection. The reward was instantaneous.  Juan's roar would have woken the house if it hadn't been muffled by Luis' mouth.

The hand in Luis' hair tightened and pulled his head back. Juan's mouth went to the exposed throat.  "I don't like the beard." The words were muffled, but Luis smiled at the tone, a child complaining about his dinner.

"I don't recall consulting you," said Luis and pulled his thigh back up again.  This time the groan was lost in the collar of his uniform.  He was enjoying this. It wasn't the all consuming, feverish, thought destroying experience he remembered, this was another thrill altogether -- an amazing sensation of power.  Unbuttoning Juan's trousers enough for access, he replaced his leg with his hand in order to control the pressure and the tempo.  He was enjoying this but "brevity is the soul of wit". Dios mio!  Here with Juan's hard cock in my hand and quoting Hamlet to myself.  He had to get out of this situation -- fast.  And so he did, with hands and lips and about three minutes.  Again silencing Juan's satisfaction with his mouth, Luis was forming a plan to escape the need for a repeat performance, at least tonight.  Fortunately, Juan would now at least be reasonable, if not completely pliable, and if Luis moved fast enough, Juan may not notice that he alone had enjoyed the evening.

Juan tried to grab him as Luis moved away. "Where are you going?" The half commanding, half pleading tone was not going to work anymore.

"I am too old for the floor,  Juan.  There are other matters to consider, your daughter being one.  Do you really want the whole pueblo to know what has happened here?"  The sweeping comment covered a wide range of slanderous accusations. "I need to make myself presentable and check on Katerina to see if she is seriously injured. Then I am going to frighten the servants and get some sleep. The sun will be up in a few hours and I have duties to perform.  Do you want some help getting to your quarters?" In the light of such logical and coherent reasoning Juan could do nothing but wave Luis out of the room professing that he would be fine.  After he saw to Katerina, Luis would make sure that Juan had not fallen asleep on the floor. It wouldn't be the first time if he had.  

*-*-*-*-*  

Katerina was sitting at the dressing table in her robes.  Her eye was starting to swell and she could tell it was going to blacken spectacularly.  Her father hadn't pulled his punch, she was lucky nothing was broken.

She blamed herself for the way this evening had turned out.  She should have followed her instincts.  She had approached Grisham without a second thought, focused only of her goal, but as soon as she had shut the door to Montoya's office she had been uncertain.  Not because he was the less appealing choice, on the contrary, but because she could see that he knew her true purpose and was humoring her.  He had also known just what to say to bring her pride into play. What possessed me to try to toy with this man?"

Colonel Montoya tapped lightly on the chamber door but did not wait for an answer before entering.   Katerina made the appropriate noises of a lady interrupted in a state of undress, but he just smirked.  "Considering the offer you were making to me this evening such a display lacks a certain sincerity."

"I have changed my mind," Katerina's reply was caustic, but automatic, as a new plan was already forming.

Montoya must have seen it for he moved behind her and leaned in close meeting her eyes in the mirror.  "Well then," he said in almost a whisper, "what is it that you do want from me?"

Katerina was about to protest but then realized it would be futile.  This man was enough like her to see any token protest as the stall tactic it would be.  She decided to take a chance on trusting her instinct and be blunt.  Her chin came up. "I want to spend the remainder of my father's time in Santa Elena in the house of one of the aristocrats of the area.  Someone who still keeps in contact with Spain."

"Someone whose lady may note the results of this evening in a personal letter to another lady who may mention it to someone who...."

Katerina cut him off tersely.  "Yes, yes. You understand, I see." She turned toward him and he moved toward a chair. "Will you help me?"

"Tell me why." He was now sitting the comfortable chair and was back to his usual immaculate appearance.

Seeing him enthroned, Katerina was tempted to continue the game from earlier this evening but then she recalled the look on her father's face.  "It would be useful to have an ally if the time ever comes that you are in conflict with my father," she said as she thought, See Colonel, I now understand something of you as well.

"Pardon my obtuseness, but wouldn't it be better for me to ally with someone who has your father's ear rather than someone who wants to rip it off?"

This brought a quick grin then a slight wince to the usually lovely face. "As you know, my father keeps his own council. No one has his ear.  I don't know what he has told you of my marriage but this is the situation.  My father has chosen for me a wealthy, highly placed, but not very bright nobleman who is making his fortune in the New World.  At least he would be with the proper management of his assets.  My father sees this as the perfect way to bring the property and capital under his control."

"And you disapprove of this and of his choice of husband?" said Montoya while thinking, Is she really just a little girl who was mad at her papa?  How disappointing.

"On the contrary, I am anxious to complete this union."

Montoya gently prompted, "Because?"

"This is the perfect opportunity for me.  You understand about opportunity don't you, Colonel?"  Katerina could see that Montoya was putting the pieces of this puzzle together.

"And you are fighting about this marriage with your father...?"

"Because he knows me too well.  If I had just said, "Yes, papa." he would have been suspicious and would have changed his mind just to disrupt what he would perceive as my plans. If I am in a vindictive rage then I have no time to actually think about the situation, at least that is my father's perspective. Salvador is a good man though rather naive. I will have no complaints about his role as husband." Her small smile a reminder of the events of this evening. "He is also very trusting, and an assertive wife could influence his decisions.  He likes to go to hunts, parties, play at all of the amusements of the upper class, which is why his holdings suffer.  He will not balk at letting me manage a small part of them, just to keep myself occupied."

Montoya rose and she knew that he had clear understanding of the situation.  He responded to her offer, saying, "I am not in need, at this moment, of an ally against your father.  However, I will arrange for you to be the guest of one of the local ladies.  Do not read to much into this, Senorita.  The way your war with Juan Sanchez is going at the moment makes my motives purely selfish."

He turned to meet her questioning look as he reached for the door and said, "Blood is so very difficult to remove from the carpets."

*-*-*-*-*

The next morning Reyes insisted that Katerina join him for breakfast.  She was not going to be allowed to retreat to her rooms to hide her shame, not that Montoya saw much of that.  He did see the now blackened eye and the stiffness in her movements.   The meal was silent and afterward Katerina returned to her room.

"Might I make a suggestion?" Using such a submissive tone went against Montoya's every instinct with Reyes. "The presence of your daughter in this house is not in our best interest.  I suggest that she be removed from any further temptation until you are ready to leave. I have a suitable location in mind,  Senorita Alvarado's hacienda.  With the Senorita and her duena, Katerina will be well chaperoned."

Reyes was very interested in this turn of events.  "Will Senorita Alvarado agree?  They have only met twice."

"The Senorita is an intelligent and practical woman, but she is a woman and therefor has a soft heart.  If I may mention the bruises?" Montoya asked, already sure of the response. Reyes was not afraid to be known as a man with a strong hand toward his children

After a moment thought, the governor nodded his agreement. "An excellent suggestion.  You go to see Senorita Alvarado and I will make sure that Katerina is prepared for the change in plans."

"My carriage is at her disposal." Montoya left to inform the coachmen and have his horse saddled.  The day was starting off well.

*-*-*-*-*

The trip to the Alvarado ranch went far too quickly. A ride, alone, was just what Montoya had needed to refocus his attention on the problem at hand instead of trying to control his reactions all the time. Reyes had always had that effect on him, inciting him to go with his instincts, his impulses.  Around Reyes, that would lead to nothing but trouble -- disastrous, career-destroying, violent, ecstatic, bloody trouble. Montoya did not want to let loose that part of himself again.

Senorita Alvarado was there to meet him at the door.  "Colonel Montoya, what a pleasant surprise.  Won't you come in?  Something cool to drink?"

Tessa was playing the perfect hostess.  Usually he would enjoy extending this scene but he was in no mood for polite games today.  "I'm afraid I don't have time for an extended visit, Senorita, although a drink would be welcome.  Could we sit here a moment?  I have a favor to ask." Montoya had indicated the chairs on the shaded patio and Tessa, seeming intrigued, obliged.

"Marta," Tessa called into the house, "could you bring out some of the lemonade you made this morning?  Now Colonel, what could I possibly do for you?"

"It is more for Senorita Reyes.  Katerina has angered Governor Reyes and he is a stern father.  It is in her best interest to be out of his sight for a while.  Would it be possible for her to stay here for a few days?  She knows no one and took a liking to you the few times you had a chance to meet."

Tessa was looking suspicious, so Montoya played his trump card. "I hear your servant has some talent in the healing arts.  They would be beneficial to Katerina since going to Dr. Helm is out of the question, in this situation.  Discretion in this matter is very important, Senorita Alvarado."

He drank from the glass he had been offered while Tessa and Marta looked at each other in silent communication.  When Tessa turned back he could see the decision had been made in his favour.

"Of course, Senorita Reyes is welcome for a long as she wishes to stay."

"Thank you," he said with sincere gratitude and rose from the chair. "You have lifted a great weight from my mind." He bowed over her hand and when he raised his eyes he saw surprise and confusion in hers. You didn't expect this, did you, Tessa?  That Montoya could have a heart.  Interests you, does it?  Maybe Grisham is not the best man for the job.  The smile he gave her was genuine and the kiss he pressed to her hand more than prescribed.  He remounted and turned back to the women. "The senorita will arrive in my carriage some time later this morning."

"We will be ready to welcome her," said Tessa, still bemused.

On the ride back he berated himself.  What had possessed him to flirt with Tessa Alvarado!  This was the type of situation that he had been trying to avoid. Think, Luis, think. Don't just act, think about the consequences.  For a man with his ambition, any attention from this lady would just cause unnecessary problems. He had enough with Reyes, but that problem would be leaving, hopefully soon.

As Reyes had promised, everything was ready upon Montoya's arrival.  Katerina was already in the coach and the colonel was sure that she had been thoroughly threatened, not that it would have been necessary.  From his horse he met her gaze calmly, but with her back to her father Katerina gave him a small smile from under her veil.  He gave the driver and guards their instructions and sent them on their way.   One more difficulty solved.  This day was going far too smoothly.

*-*-*-*-*

They could see the cloud of dust in the distance and wondered, again, what would arrive at their door.  Tessa and Marta had spent the hour since Montoya's call readying the house for their visitor and preparing some poultices.  From what he had hinted at they expected at least bruises, if not worse, left on Katerina by her father.  So they were not surprised that, despite the heat, she had donned a veil and made a slow descent from the carriage.

They quickly led her to the house and dismissed the escort to return to the pueblo.  It was in the house that the women got a look at the black eye.  Katerina dismissed the cries of dismay. "It's not that bad, barely even swollen anymore.  And in case your wondering it is only my back that has any other injuries.  It is the corset that is making the pain worse.  May I take it off?"

Tessa hesitated for a moment, stunned by the fact that a lady of her position would even make such a suggestion, but Marta quickly went to help.  As the dress came off, Katerina smiled at Tessa. " I shocked you, didn't I?"

"Not with the suggestion itself but just the fact that you, a high born lady, would make it. That was a surprise," said Tessa.

"You think there are few women at court with the sense to come in out of the rain if being wet and cold became fashionable and was considered proper." Tessa ducked her head, that was exactly what she thought. Katerina laughed, "You would be right,"and almost immediately winced.

Marta went to the small cabinet where she kept her herbs and medicines and brought back a small jar of white powder.  Tessa thought it looked familiar. "Is that some of Doctor Helm's medicine?  The one that he made for the fever?" she asked.

"Yes, he said it was good for relieving pain as well," Marta said

"How did you get it?"

"He gave it to me."

Tessa knew how the next question would sound and so restrained her curiosity as long as possible. She didn't last three minutes. "Why?"

Katerina was now more comfortable in her dressing robes and reclining on a couch.  Marta had been getting some water so that she could take the medicine, but the Gypsy almost spilled it restraining her laughter as she replied, "Because I asked him."

"Marta!" It was the cry of a child being denied a treat.

The laughter came, but Marta also took pity on Tessa who was being torn between indignation and curiosity. "I had collected some herbs and willow bark and brought some to Doctor Helm.  I know he has little time to do such things and I have seen the state of his garden.  When I gave them to him he insisted on paying me, so I said I would accept some of the medicine in exchange.  He agreed and told me of its other uses.  I picked up the powder when you were in the cantina  the other day with Senora Hidalgo and the senorita."

Katerina was enjoying the play between the two women, thankful that they were comfortable enough around her to behave so naturally.  She missed her own family in Avila.  When her mother died five years ago, Katerina had taken the responsibility to oversee the raising of her younger brothers and sister.  It was little Margarita in particular, nine years younger than herself, that she had watched over.   Katerina missed her almost as much as the woman who was now her duena, a woman who had been by Katerina's side for as long as she could remember.  Like Marta and Tessa, the bond was almost as close as blood but she did not deny her sister this comfort.  It was reassuring to know that Rita was well cared for.  Maybe that was why she had felt a strong connection to these women;  they were a family.  She resolved to enjoy her time here and try not to let plans and tactics and schemes get in the way.

*-*-*-*-*

Montoya managed to avoid the governor for the rest of the day.  By supper he had still not come up with any way to convince Reyes that the event of the previous night was an anomalous occurrence. It was, at least since arriving in California, but why would Juan Sanchez believe him?  He hadn't hesitated the night before.  Did he really want a way out?

That thought brought him up short.  Part of him was insisting that he avoid the situation at all cost while the other was tempting him to give in to the inevitable.  It took more strength than he had to turn Juan Sanchez when the man was focused on a goal. Luis knew of only one person who was ever able to do that.  He would just accept that Juan had caught him again and be thankful that Katerina was out of the house.  Was that why he was so willing to help Katerina leave?  No, that was another matter entirely; a matter that also required careful thought.

Luis knew he could do this.  He was not the same person he was 15 years ago, he need not get swept away in Juan's desires again.  Bathe in them, bury himself in them, let go of all the controls and just feel. The thoughts of last night replaced the ones from long ago, there was something to hold on to -- power.  Reverse the situation, let Juan be the one who gets lost.  He could do this.

Juan Sanchez arrived in the dining room and Luis rose to meet him.  The men had taken their seats at the long table, and the first course placed in front of them, before Juan opened the conversation.  "You have been avoiding me."

Luis put down his spoon and relaxed into the chair, giving the statement his full attention. "I thought it best.  There was work to be done, arrangements to be made."

This seemed to satisfy Juan for the moment. "Tell me about the day to day running of your little kingdom," he said with a mocking smile. The tone Luis was familiar with, he had heard it all his life from the sons of influential noblemen.  It said that he may have the money to buy his way into schools and society but he would never have the blood to truly be a part of it. Juan had never used that tone with him before, but Luis was no longer an uncertain youth, he saw the disdain for what it was -- bravado.

"Of course, Governor. Should I start with sunrise?" said Luis.

The meal progressed with this innocuous topic while the undercurrents grew stronger with each course served.  By the time the meal had ended it was obvious to Luis that he would not avoid a confrontation with Juan. He had informed his staff that since Senorita Reyes was not in residence they could retire after dinner, and he suggested to Juan that moving to his study would be a good way to continue the evening.   He had a fine bottle of verdelho madeira and they would be far from possible intrusion.  The latter he did not state, but the implication was not lost on Juan.

"An excellent plan.  A relaxing evening is just what I need before continuing my journey tomorrow," said Juan, within easy hearing of the servants.

Luis breathed a prayer of thanks. They were still leaving tomorrow.  He had not been sure how Juan would react to the possible  renewal of their physical relationship.  Perhaps Juan Sanchez was no longer as possessive as he once was, no longer as focused, as undeniable.   Why am I disappointed?  This is a good thing.  This man is dangerous to me, thought Luis.  He continued in his role of host until they passed the door to his rooms.

Juan stopped.  "Are we going to continue the charade all night?"

Not wanting to attract any attention, Luis moved into the room with the intent of trying to reason with Juan Sanchez.  That he really should have known better was his last coherent thought before Juan's mouth took his full attention. He tasted of sweet wine mixed with the honeyed melon with which they had finished the meal.   Juan had always used his superior height and strength to his advantage, this time he had simply trapped Luis against the closed door. He was as possessive and focused and undeniable as he had always been.  "Mine!" was growled between kisses which brought back Juan's comments about Katerina's thieving from the night before.  Again, it was the thought of her that returned Luis to his senses.

He grabbed two fists full of Juan's thick black hair and pulled the head back breaking the kiss. "I thought you didn't like the beard," said Luis, as he slowly moved them away from the door and toward the bed.

Juan's surprised showed in his eyes which sent a wave of lust through Luis.  He had never taken any initiative in their sexual activities unless goaded by anger. This power was what he had tasted last night and what he was going to revel in now.  Being slightly shorter meant that he was at just the right height to take advantage of Juan's exposed throat.  He ran his lips and tongue along the pulsing artery, feeling the beat quicken as his did so.  As he reached the jaw line he moved away but not before placing a hard nip on the bone.  Juan groaned and at the sound all of the fear that had been haunting Luis disappeared.  Since the news of the new governor's identity had reached him he had dreaded the inevitable undermining of his hard won control but now he knew that in this they were equals. He might even have the advantage.  That changed everything.  All thoughts of avoiding this encounter were pushed aside.

They had reached the bed.  Luis let Juan go and stepped back to look at the other man.  He took his time to admire the strong, athletic build that had caught his attention years ago; a little heavier but not much changed.  Hair still as black as a raven's wing but there were lines around the dark eyes made more noticeable by the tan Juan had acquired during the summer.  Straight nose, strong jaw, no soft lines on this face, accept for the generous mouth.  Even when the full lips were twisted in a sneer, as they were now, they could be considered temptation itself.

Juan was recovering from his surprise. "You like what you see?"

"Very much.  You have an excellent tailor, your suit fits you well.  Take it off."  The last phrase was given as an order.  Juan was about to object to prompt an argument until he looked into Luis' eyes.  He saw that there would not be the remembered explosion of fireworks, all noise and bright light, but in its place a hot, steady flame that could likely burn him alive. He didn't move and Luis seated himself in a straight back chair stretching his legs out in front of him.

"Do you need some help?  Are the buttons too complicated?" Luis was being intentionally provoking.

Juan picked up on the insult as the goad it was and finally both men were at the same place.  The sneer changed to a smirk as he removed his coat and placed it across Luis' lap, the vest followed. Juan sat on the bed to remove his boots and it was then that he took a moment to admire the sight in front of him.  The face was only recently familiar.  Gone was the shock of hair constantly falling in clear blue eye; it was pulled back well in control and the eyes were like steel.  Even the smile with which he had been so familiar was different with the thin lips framed by an elegant  beard.  The rest was the same. Although he complained about being trapped behind a desk, Luis had not gained the figure of a bureaucrat.  Only average in height, broad shoulders tapered to slim hips in perfect proportion giving an illusion of greater size. The legs stretched out in front of him would be deceptively strong for he had always been a  talented horseman and had not let that skill deteriorate in this country.  It was those legs that captured Juan's attention.   Putting his boots aside, he sank to his knees to remove Luis'.

Luis seemed about to say something, but instead tossed Juan's coat and vest on a table behind him never taking his eyes off the man on the floor.  With both boots removed, Juan let his hand travel up the lean legs noting that he was right about the strength of the thighs under his hands. Stopping at the edge of Luis' jacket, he undid the buttons and, grabbing the lapels, lifted Luis off the back of the chair to remove the uniform.  Juan stayed close until he heard a soft voice gently reprimand him. "You are not finished."

Juan stood back up to full height and looked down his nose at the man in the chair.  Luis had a small smile. He was not going to back down from this new role.  He could no longer be intimidated now that he knew Juan wanted this more than he did.  However, as the white silk shirt came off, the admission did come.  Maybe not much more.  That and the fact that it was taking all of his concentration to keep his hands off the pale golden torso caused Luis to chuckle at his own weakness.

"Now what?!" Juan was losing patience.  It was surprising he had played along this far so Luis changed tactics.

He got to his feet and stood in front of Juan. "I was thinking you looked rather good," a quick shove dumped Juan on to the bed, "for an old man."  This time the grin thrown at Juan was very familiar.

The challenge had been made. "Old man, is it?  I knew those whiskers were borrowed.  Come here and I'll remove them, pup." But what Juan was removing was Luis's clothes.  The shirt was pulled over his head and this time Luis was the one dumped on the bed so that the rest of his clothing could be eliminated in one swift motion.  Juan was about to lunge on to the bed when a foot on his abdomen stopped the motion.

"You really do not take orders well, do you?"

"You're an impertinent child," said Juan, trying to brush the impediment away.  It only returned lower, the heel just brushing the top of Juan's erection.

"At our age, five years makes little difference.  I have had as much experience dealing with difficult men as you have, likely more.  Now strip."  Luis' tone had gone from indulgent to irritated, the last two words were snarled.

Juan blinked, not quite sure how the naked, slightly disheveled man sprawled on the bed managed to be so commanding.  Every time it seemed that he was back in familiar territory with Luis, he got side-swiped.  It was infuriating and very arousing.  That Luis was also finding Juan's confusion stimulating was quite evident. This prompted action, and Juan shed the rest of his clothing as he crawled on to the bed and up the length of Luis' body.  Luis raised himself up onto his elbows and met Juan in an unexpected kiss.   Their mouths were the only part that touched and this time it wasn't a battle, just an appreciation of the sensations produced by the meeting of lips and tongues in slow exploration.

The truce didn't last long though and Luis took advantage of Juan's less stable position to capture one wrist while shoving the opposite shoulder, flipping Juan on to his back.  Luis immediately pinned him there and renewed the kiss, this time putting the full force of a seduction behind the actions.  Juan tried to regain control by raking the fingers of his free hand through Luis' hair, finally completely freeing it, and getting a good grip on his head to increase the aggression in the kiss.  Luis shook him off, pulling back with a warning smile.

"This is my command, I am not going to give it up."

Before Juan could object, Luis renewed his assault.  He knew that he could not take the time he would have liked because of Juan's lack of patience, but still he was not about to rush. He started with a hard bite on the jaw to match the one he had given the other side earlier and also traced a similar path down Juan's throat.  This time when he reached the base he continued across the collar bone and diagonally down the plain of the pectoral, leaving the occasional set of teeth marks.  It was best to keep Juan's attention with a little pain.

He ignored Juan's nipples, just to annoy him, and made steady progress across the base of the rib cage to the point of the hip.   He considered drawing blood with this nip but decided instead to meet the deep brown eyes and lave the bone with his tongue, working his way to the crease where hip met thigh, completely ignoring the rampant cock just inches away.

"I never knew you could be so cruel." Juan was sounding slightly breathless.

Luis chuckled. "Of course you did.  I had an excellent teacher."  He had let go of Juan's wrist and the free hand quickly moved to give Juan's nipple a hard pinch.  The pain combined with the tone of the comments brought Juan off the bed with a growl, but Luis was not going to tolerate that.  He was quickly on his knees, with his full weight pushing Juan back to the mattress.  He raised himself with hands placed on Juan's shoulders, hair framing his face like a mane and a distinctly predatory look.  "Who told you that you could move?"  Luis punctuated the rebuke with a hard kiss and a bite to the full bottom lip that did draw blood.

Knowing your adversary is key in winning any battle and Luis knew Juan well enough to quit teasing.  He quickly sat back on his heels, drawing his nails down Juan's torso as he went, and turned his attention to the now weeping erection.  He lowered his lips to brush the tip and then caught the head between his teeth with a bite hard enough for Juan to draw deep, very audible, breath.  Luis looked up, meeting Juan's eyes. "If you put your hands on my head, yours comes off.  Do you understand?"  Juan raised his arms and rested his hands over his head in response. That was interesting.  I never would have guessed.  Luis was truly enjoying this experience and so added, "Don't make a sound."

A means to an end had always been Luis' approach, but this time it wasn't about release but capture.  He easily set his own responses aside and focused completely on Juan. He rediscovered where extra pressure would evoke movement in Juan's hips, which he kept firm control of anyway.  He found the spot where a flick of the tongue would make Juan bite his lip to silence the groan trying to escape.  He continued to watch breathing and pulse to judge when to slow down and when to release the throbbing organ from his mouth completely.  It was only when Juan raised his head and glared at Luis, with eyes gone black with hunger, that he steadied his pace and deepened the stroke so that Juan came quicker and harder than the past evening on the floor.  Juan remained silent, as he had been told, until he felt Luis swallow around his now sensitive cock.  At that movement a moan escaped Juan and his hands hit the bed on each side of his hips with a thump.  They didn't move any farther, but gripped the sheets as Luis sucked hard during the last spasms of the orgasm.

Like the night before, Luis had not found or even sought his own release, but the wielding that kind of power had maintained an arousal that could be easily stoked to the edge.  He moved up to lie on his back beside Juan and waited for what he knew would come next.

"Come with me to Monterey," said Juan, turning on to his side to look at Luis.

"This is sounding familiar, Juan.  A little too predictable." The words may have been mocking but a small smile took the sting out.

"I had to ask," said Juan as he thought of another approach. "It is very convenient for you to have friends in places of power.  Keeping in close contact with those friends is a wise course." Blue eyes narrowed, suspicious of Juan's train of thought. "For a regional governor, such as yourself, the possibility of advancement is limited, unless there is a change in policy.  It is often not wise to commit the discussion of such policies to paper.  Face to face meeting will be necessary."

Juan was suggesting more than regular official visits supplemented by further illustrations of the talent in the fingers moving across Luis' collarbone.   These underlying implications were what drew Luis' interest. "If you are trying to seduce me, you had best be more explicit."

"When I offered you the world Luis, I meant it.  More and more colonies are slipping through Spain's grip.  We could be the ones to lead California into self rule.  General Galvez had great confidence in your military skills all those years ago, I am sure they have only improved.  We could do it."  Juan was wooing him, with words and hands.  The hands were doing well but the words... Luis had heard similar before.  Juan always had audacious plans.  He thought just because they were his that they should succeed -- too often they had.  Luis knew the work involved to ensure success and was willing to take his time.  That didn't mean that Juan's ideas for self rule were not sound, just that it was unlikely he had the patience to achieve the results.

"The main problem, Juan, is that we are woefully under armed.  There are only four truly secure installations in the colony, there needs to be more.  Independence requires strength, strength is shown through arms.  Cannon, Juan. That would be a good place to start."

"Not possible," the words were muffled.  Juan's mouth had joined a new plan to turn Luis' attention to more immediate concerns, but Juan paused to expand on the refusal. "At least not from Spain.  It will take some time to find other sources that will not draw attention.  In the mean time, I think that expanding this garrison would be a prudent exercise.  More men, more horses, more guns, more munitions." Each item on the list had been punctuated by a light nip as Juan slowly worked his way down Luis' body. He had stopped at the navel and looked up. "How does that sound?"

Luis raised himself onto his elbows. "I think you could add a few more things to that list." Juan's lupine grin showed that he had a few more things in mind.  Luis decided to end the power play.  He drew a sharp breath as Juan's sharp teeth gently scraped down the length of his now demanding cock and made other plans for the rest of the night.

*-*-*-*-*

The messenger arrived at the Alvarado ranch early the following morning saying that Colonel Montoya would be sending his carriage for Senorita Reyes.  By the time it arrived the ladies had said their farewells and made promises of continued correspondence.  It would be novel not to have to wait months for a reply.  Tessa gave Katerina a gentle hug. Although the bruises were healing nicely the corset was again in use and likely causing discomfort.

Marta came up to the two women and pressed a bottle into Katerina's hand. "You know how much to take if you need it?"

"Yes, Marta. Thank you, I know how valuable the medicine is."

Marta grinned and the little game they had been playing at Tessa's expense renewed. "It is no trouble, I know were to get some more.  Maybe this time I will send the senorita with the herbs and we will get double the supply."

This brought a light blush to Tessa's face and a careful chuckle from Katerina.  The game of gentle teasing that had been going on throughout the visit continued until the carriage was at the gate. To everyone's surprise Montoya himself emerged to help Katerina.

"Colonel, I didn't expect you to take time from your busy schedule to escort me personally.  My father must be missing you."

The double meaning of Katerina's remark was not lost on Montoya but he answered the surface comment only. "You father had letters to write to Monterey and instructions to forward to your next stop.  I would have been of no service to him so I thought to shorten your journey by providing some company."  He settled Katerina in her seat and turned to Tessa. "Thank you for your assistance in this situation, Senorita. You have been a great service to me, I am in your debt.  And Senorita Reyes is looking the picture of health." Katerina raised an eyebrow at this, the one not bruised purple. "I think that the good doctor would be dismayed to know that he is not indispensable."

Tessa nodded and said, "I agree, Colonel, this is best kept between ourselves."

"I have always thought of you as a lady of good sense.  It is a shame to waste such virtues out here in the middle of the desert." Montoya had taken Tessa's hand in farewell.

"Once I am married,  I shall endeavor to tempt her to Monterey," said Katerina leaning out the window, "with tales of my wonderful home.  I may even find her a husband worth more than this land that she loves so much."  All smiled at this and Montoya bid good-day to Tessa with a light brush of his lips over her hand.  Katerina blew her a kiss as the carriage pulled away and sent a wave and a grin to Marta who had remained in the background since the escort had pulled up.

Marta took a good look at a now pensive Tessa and said,  "He can be very charming when he wishes to be."

"Montoya? Don't worry Marta, I know what he is.  It is just that I have had opportunities to kill him and now I'm glad I didn't take any of them.  He's not all evil, you know."

Marta looked at the receding cloud of dust. "No, not all bad."

"Just mostly bad."

Marta was developing a sly smile, Katerina had been a bad influence on this little game. "Unlike the doctor," Tessa turned a puzzled expression to Marta at the abrupt change of topic, "who seems to me, just bad enough."

"Marta!" Tessa's shocked exclamation followed Marta's laughter into the house.

*-*-*-*-*

Once the carriage was underway its passengers dropped all pretense.

"So, Senorita, was your maneuver successful?"

"I believe so.  Tessa has some powerful connections and a soft heart. Colonel, I would be careful of her if I were you.  She is observant and could say the wrong thing to the wrong person."

Montoya waved the idea off.  He was very careful at covering his tracks and, unlike Katerina's situation,  his were not women's matters. Who would believe the word of a young woman over a respected commander, without proof?

Katerina continued, "I would suggest marriage but now she is far too independent for that to be truly effective. She has gained confidence while running the property on her own."

"Yes, that was a mistake. Were you serious about trying to tempt her to Monterey?"

"Why not, she's enjoyable company.  Unlike Spain, the idea of that trip is not out of the question.   I may find some diversions for her, to entice her to stay.  Would that disappoint you, Luis?"

The use of his Christian name brought the exchange to another level. Montoya replied, "Not if she decided to give up her land as well.  I have no other interest in her and have been trying to persuade her to return to Spain without success."

"So, my father has brought you into an.....alliance." The lowered eyes and soft voice made Katerina's statement seem almost regretful.

"I think you had better be clearer, Katerina," Montoya said carefully.

Katerina sat up straight and took a deep breath. What she had said a few days ago to Grisham was true -  ladies tended to infer more than what was actually said.  With this topic, she knew Montoya would not want to have any misunderstandings.  Could that mean that he may also be direct?  She took the chance. "Are you my father's lover?"

"A moot point, since you are both leaving this afternoon."

Damn the man! "Luis!"

"Do you really want an answer to that question?  Does it really matter?  What do you truly want to know, Kat?"

Kat?  She put that aside for later. She could hear that the desperation in his voice was barely contained, that alone answered her question. But in his eyes was anger and disapproval, who it was aimed at was uncertain, and that gave her hope. "I want to know if you are going to betray me!"

Katerina could see Montoya almost physically grab onto his emotions.  The cultured facade returned as did the elegant speech. "Your father classifies people as for or against him, you know this.   He has decided that I am an ally, but that does not preclude me from forming other affiliations.  Although, with some, discretion will be required." He received an understanding nod in response.

The pair sat quietly, reviewing what had been said and what hadn't.

That was interesting, thought Katerina, In the space of minutes we passed from Senorita and Colonel to me asking very private questions and him calling me "Kat".   Had a connection been made in my mirror or in his office?  Was it earlier, the moment his lips had touched my hand in the square?  Oh Kat, you had best get married soon.   Kat?  What had prompted that pet name, or any pet name? Is that how he sees me, as a pet?  No, a tame beast would not have sparked that kind of fire in his eyes.  Should I let him see how much I want to see that fire again, unbind his hair again,  rumple the immaculate uniform again?  Those actions were prompted by my own pride and disregard of the task at hand but I would risk the beating again if not for this fragile, far more important, trust.

Montoya was bemused at his reactions as well. The emotional outburst, where did that come from?  I was prepared for the question but her response to avoidance was so like Juan's impatience.  They are not so much alike.  Juan would have stoked the anger, mine and his, where as Katerina focused it. She is letting me see her thoughts wander across her face but rather than acting on them she is just watching them pass by like a parade.  Is this alliance worth risking Juan's ire?  Could she really gain the position she is reaching for?  Am I acting on impulse, again?

Katerina reached across the width of the coach and touched Montoya's knee to get his attention.  "What are you thinking?" she asked with a smile.

"You mean you don't know? I thought you knew how to read people so well that conversation was not necessary."  He was teasing her and she played the coquette.

"Humor me," she said engagingly.

Montoya became serious. "I am wondering why I am acting so rashly." And telling the truth so easily.

"Rashly!  You are doing nothing but sending me a wedding present, your good wishes.  I hardly think that qualifies as acting rashly."  So the matter was decided and the rest of the trip back to Santa Elena was spent in polite small talk.  Just before they reached the pueblo Katerina put on her veil.

*-*-*-*-*

Barely a word was spoken between father and daughter during the rest of the day and most of the conversation in the Montoya residence was polite and formal.  Boxes were packed, letters were written, orders were given, and horses were harnessed to the traveling coach.

Although Katerina never got the opportunity to speak to Montoya alone again, every time she saw him her confidence grew.  He was ambitious, vicious, and calculating, but also cautious. There would be no careless mistakes.  As long as their goals did not clash, they would at least stay out of each others way.  They may even lend some aid when it suited their individual purpose. Katerina had no illusions, this was an alliance not a friendship; it was not personal.  She was certain that he would turn on her as fast as she would turn on him if threatened.

Governor Reyes was efficient but gracious in his leave taking of Santa Elena.  He made time to say farewell to everyone who approached him.  He played the politician well.

Montoya was also the picture of deportment.  To Katerina, he was as charming as when she arrived and gently  helped her into the coach.  There was no sign of the new arrangement between himself and his commander, except maybe for an instant as they shook hands.

The colonel watched the coach disappear in the distance before returning to his office, only then did Montoya let out a sigh of relief.  His sanity and his career had survived and he might have come out of this encounter ahead for a change. The promise of arms from Reyes and the promise of... what had Katerina promised me?  Influence?  Information?  Financial aid? He laughed aloud at the thought of that, she knew as well as he where power resided. That is what she offered -- understanding.  It would be silent and distant but as he acquired power she would understand the tactics he would have to use.  If he dared put pen to paper she would also appreciate the details of the manouevres he would make.  But that would never happen.

He moved to pour some of the cognac but stopped before a drop had left the bottle. Maybe her husband will have a riding accident while out hunting. They happen all the time.  But not too soon, there were still foundations to be laid if their empires were to succeed.  Their empires -- that thought brought a sardonic smile to his face. After all, it wouldn't be a proper empire without an Empress.
 
Continued in The Ambuscade