Dark Voyage

 

Disclaimers: The characters from the Queen of Swords are copyright to Fireworks Productions and Paramount. No copyright infringement is intended or revenue expected from their use. The story plot and other characters are copyright to the authors, Shirley Long and James Guy

 

Rating: 2 Swords for violence and suggestive scenes

 

 

 

Prologue

 

In the pouring rain, Tessa stood amongst the ruins, sword drawn, daring someone to make the first move. Scattered around the canyon were soldiers, some with their swords drawn, and others with rifles trained on her. Sitting just outside the ruins on horseback were Montoya and Grisham, practically drooling in anticipation. It had all seemed so simple—break into Montoya’s office and steal the tax shipment before he sent it out and set up an ambush for her. Naturally, everything had gone wrong. The Captain had been waiting for her, and she barely made it out of town in one piece. And of course, they had to go chasing after her. Tessa had made it all the way to La Luna Canyon before anyone had caught up with her.

 

“Why don’t you just surrender now, Mi Reina? Save us all a world of trouble. Surely you must realize that there is no escape from me this time.”

 

“I’ll take my chances, Colonel.”

 

“Have it your way.” Montoya signaled and those soldiers brandishing swords attacked. She caught the first one with a knee to the gut before ramming the hilt of her sword down on the back of his neck. One down. Two more charged her from the sides. Rolling her eyes at their stupidity, she ducked down and rolled away, causing them to impale each other with their swords. Seconds after she was back on her feet, someone grabbed her from behind. He held her in place while his compadré stalked towards her, sword drawn and ready to run her through. As soon as he was within reach, Tessa kicked out and caught the guy in the face. Using that as momentum, she flipped over the other guy’s back, took him down with a sharp kick to the knee, and finished the job with a quick rap of her sword hilt.

 

“Damn. You just cost me 2 reales.” She turned to see Grisham striding towards her, his sword resting on his shoulder, a lit cigar in his mouth. “I bet the colonel that my men would be able to take you down without my help.”

 

“Sorry to disappoint you Captain."

 

“Not a problem. I’ll just take the money from the reward I’m about to collect.” He gave a mocking salute before lunging at her. She easily deflected this first attack and planted a swift kick in his rear as he passed by her.

 

“Looks like Montoya will be keeping his money after all.”

 

“I’m just getting started.” They both assumed the en guarde position and the duel began in earnest. The Americano was good, but, as usual, extremely arrogant. A flaw Tessa planned to use to her advantage. She stayed on the defensive, waiting for him to make a mistake. There! He lunged at her again, overextending his reach. She turned the attack aside and quickly disarmed him. A sharp kick to his ribs drove him back a few feet and sent him sprawling. Tessa started to advance on Grisham, but one of the other soldiers got back to his feet and charged her, diverting her attention from the fallen Captain. She’d barely had a chance to turn the attack aside when she saw Grisham holding an object that he had lit with his cigar. He threw it at her, but before it had reached her there was an explosion and her vision was flooded with this bright, white flash. Stumbling backwards, her hand flew to her eyes, wiping at them to try and get rid of the stars that had suddenly appeared. Shaking her head to clear out the last of them, she turned to face Grisham once more and saw him on his feet and making his way over to where his sword lay. At least, she thought it was him. It was hard to tell because everything was starting to look fuzzy. She wiped at her eyes again and shook her head, hoping to clear things up. It didn’t work. In fact, it was getting worse. Someone came at her, and she was just barely able to turn them away. Tessa shook her head once more. She could hardly see two feet in front of her and her ears were still ringing from that explosion. Could that flash be what was causing her sudden vision problems? What the hell had Grisham done to her? She felt a sharp pain in her left arm. Damn. Someone had gotten close enough to cut her. She swung out with her sword, hoping to hit something. But all she did was catch someone else’s sword and suddenly find herself unarmed. Shadows surrounded her, closing in. Something heavy was driven into her ribcage. Tessa dropped to her knees, clutching her side and gasping for breath. Stretched out before her was an endless black void. She heard the unmistakable sound of a pistol being cocked and, seconds later, felt the cold steel of the muzzle pressing against her forehead.

 

Chapter 1

 

“Well, isn’t this a nice change? You…on your knees…my gun to your head. Any minute now I’m sure you’ll start begging for mercy.”

 

“Wha…what the hell did you do to me, Grisham?”

 

The pressure of the gun lessened slightly as the Captain muttered something about his face, only to return in full-force a moment later. “That's just a little something I call ‘Plan B,’ do you like?”

 

“Bastardo!”

 

“Whatever. See you in hell, Queen.” Tessa closed her eyes, pointless as it was, and braced herself for the shot that would send her to eternity.

 

“Hold your fire, Capitán!” The gun came away, and, futilely opening her eyes once more, she breathed a small sigh of relief, ignoring for the moment the irony of having been saved by Montoya. But her relief was short-lived as she was soon hauled roughly to her feet by a couple of soldiers, both of whom kept a firm grip on each of her arms. “What a glorious day this is. After all this time, Reina, I finally have you right where I want you. Tell me, how…what on earth are you staring at?” The Colonel suddenly seized her chin, forcibly turning her head to, presumably, face him. “Look at me when I’m talking…” He trailed off, releasing his grip. A moment later, Tessa got the vague sensation of something being waved in front of her face, followed by a string of particularly vile oaths from Montoya. “The gods, they mock me yet again!”

 

“Sir?”

 

“She’s blind, you idiot! How could you do this to me?”

 

“Ok, how the hell is this my fault? I’m hurt too, ya know.”

 

“You’re the one who threw that damned explosive! You’re lucky you didn’t kill us all with that thing! What the hell did you do, use a short load? Any armorer knows you don't pack those things light.”

 

“Hey, I didn’t know this was gonna happen!”

 

“Somehow, I doubt that. To make sure you don't try this again, let me give you a lesson in playing with explosives. If black powder is packed loose it will flash. If it is packed tight it will explode. Explosives need resistance to build up pressure to turn a burn into an explosion. Black powder used to be mealed and often does not detonate but only burn. There is now a process called corning that turns the black powder into grains. The secret of a black powder charge working properly is the air spaces between the grains that provide oxygen. Now before you try to blow us all up again, take a lesson from the Queen.”

 

“She’s blind. So what? Doesn’t change anything. We still caught her, didn’t we?”

 

“It changes everything! You Americans have no concept of honor. If I take her in like this, I’ll be a laughing stock. No one will respect or fear the name Montoya ever again.”

 

“So we’re just gonna walk away?”

 

“Yes, we are. And in your case, I mean that literally. Sergeant! Please escort the Captain’s horse back to town, as he has just been demoted to infantry.”

 

“Wait a second, Colonel. I think I know how we can turn this…new development to our advantage.”

 

“Alright. You have thirty seconds to convince me before I bust you down to garrison stable boy.”

 

“She’s blind, right? I mean, that’s gonna be a pretty difficult condition for anyone to hide, even her.”

 

“Your point?”

 

“It’s the key to finally figuring out who she is. Find the Doña who’s suddenly gone blind, and you will have the Queen.”

 

“Grisham, I won’t arrest a blind woman.”

 

“You don’t have to. If she stays blind, that means I’ve put the Queen out of business for good. She doesn’t, well; you’ll finally have the proof you need to make the arrest. It’s win-win.”

 

“Well, Capitán, I think you’ve made an excellent point. While you haven’t completely redeemed yourself, you’re well on your way.”

 

“Does that mean I get my horse back?”

 

“No.” Tessa heard the sound of rapid hoof beats, which soon faded into the ever-present darkness, signaling that Montoya had indeed left. The soldiers released their hold, and she dropped back down to her knees.

 

“You got off easy this time, Queen,” Grisham taunted from somewhere nearby. “Next time we meet, I won’t hesitate to pull the trigger. I don’t care if you are blind.” Something metallic was thrown on the ground in front of her, and it soon became apparent that she was alone. Blind, and alone. She moved her hands towards the place where she had heard the metallic sound and felt the hilt of her sword. They leave me blind and throw me my sword as an insult. I must find Chico. She waited until she heard the soldiers’ horses move away before she whistled for her mount. She heard the animal move towards her and held up her hand to feel his head. "Well boy, I guess this will beat all the holes in my blouse that Marta has had to repair."

 

Tessa replaced her sword by her side and felt along Chico's side until she found the stirrup. Carefully she mounted and sat a moment, listening and trying to decide which way to go. She leaned forward. "Ok Chico, let's find someplace safe. We can't go home as Marta isn't there and we can't go to town. Doctor Helm is my only hope and he is with the Chumash, somewhere up north." She nudged the horse and he set off slowly. Unable to see, she could only trust her mount. She felt the warmth of the sun to her right and knew they were headed towards Monterey.

 

Chapter 2

 

Relying on the sun to tell her the time, she realized that it was almost noon as it baked her from directly above. She pulled Chico to a halt and dismounted. Finding her canteen, she used her sash to wet the horse's mouth before taking a drink herself. She removed the lace mask and wet it before dabbing her eyes and burnt face. "Damn you Grisham." Chico whinnied and Tessa's blood turned cold. Automatically, she reached for her sword. The best she could do was bluff anyone who came near. She heard the rumbling of an approaching wagon, which soon came to a stop. Her instinct told her that there was more than one person approaching and she knew she couldn't fight them.

 

She stood her ground as she heard soft steps coming towards her. "Señorita, are you all right?"

 

"Sí. Who are you?"

 

"Me llama es Juan. It is the name the padres gave me. I kept it when I ran away.” He paused for a moment, and she heard the steps come even closer. “I know you."

 

"I’m the Queen of Swords."

 

"No. You are Señorita Alvarado, the sister of my brother Churi."

 

"You know Churi? Where is he?"

 

"Very far away." Juan paused again. "Señorita, is something wrong?”

 

“I’m…having a little trouble finding my way.”

 

“Where are you going?”

 

She laughed dryly. “That’s the problem. I’m not really sure.”

 

"No problema. I take you to my boss."

 

"And who would that be?”

 

"Señora Mary Rose."

 

Before she had a chance to respond, Tessa found herself being helped into the back of what she presumed was the wagon she’d heard approaching earlier.

 

“This isn’t really necessary, Señor. I have my horse.”

 

“Por favor Reina, I insist.”

 

“Since you put it that way…”

 

Juan settled her in between what felt like a couple of large crates, and soon she sensed movement beneath her, indicating that they were on their way. Great…, she thought, idly wondering what was in the crates. Much as Tessa liked Mary Rose, she wasn’t sure how sympathetic the hard-edged sea Captain would be to her current situation. And traveling through land whose beauty she could no longer see certainly wasn’t helping her anxiety any. What if this is permanent? No more lying on the beach with Robert, looking for pictures in the stars. No more staying up all night just to watch the sun rise in the morning. And I’ll certainly never be able to just jump on Chico’s back and race towards it as it sets, like Papa and I used to. Hell, I’ll be lucky if I ever get to leave the house again. God, this is a nightmare. Why didn’t Grisham just finish it? The wagon suddenly lurched to a stop, jarring Tessa from her morose thoughts. She heard footsteps approach and quickly wiped away the tears that had fallen during her mental wanderings, wanting to look presentable for the Captain.

 

“Well, if it isn’t her Majesty, the Queen. I must say, you’re certainly the last thing I expected to see in my cargo.”

 

“You mean these crates,” Tessa asked, cracking a small smile. Leave it to Mary Rose to think of business first. “Anything I should be concerned about?”

 

“Not really. So, what exactly are you doing in there?”

 

“We found her on the road, Jefa,” Juan chimed in before she could respond. “She said she was lost.”

 

“Really? Since when does the Queen of Swords get lost?”

 

“Since this morning.”

 

“Why? What happened?”

 

“Let’s just say I’m having some trouble with my eyes.”

 

“How much trouble?”

 

“A lot, actually.” For the second time that day, Tessa sensed something being waved in front of her face, this time followed by a loud gasp from the pirate Captain.

 

"Good Lord, girl. Why didn’t you say something sooner? Muchachos, help the lady down and into the house. Rapido."

 

Tessa felt several hands gently help her from the wagon and lead her inside to a chair.

 

"You don’t have to do this, Captain Guevera. Really. I hate to be a bother."

 

"Nonsense. You know, when we first met, I said a book could be written about you, Maria Teresa. I just didn't think it would be as the Queen of Swords."

 

Tessa gasped. "You know?"

 

"Well, your mask is gone and the black clothes, red sash and sword at your side do make a statement. Don't worry; your secret is safe with me. My men won't tell either. Juan is one of my best workers and he vouches for you. Now, tell me how this happened."

 

"I was fighting with Grisham and he threw some sort of bomb at me. It flashed a few feet in front of me and I’ve been blind ever since."

 

"Well, you came to the right place. That kind of injury is common among the people in my profession. What you need is a sea voyage. I have to leave in the morning with my cargo anyway, and I’m sure there’s plenty of room for one more. We have some medicine that can be applied to your eyes and I think a fresh sea voyage will do you some good. One question, though.”

 

“Yes?”

 

“Why didn't you go to your cook, Marta?"

 

"I couldn't go home as Marta and her husband are in Santa Barbara. And Marta is my dueña, not my cook."

 

Mary Rose laughed. "I remember that really makes her mad. The two of you have a lot of fire. I mean, look at you. Mild mannered Señorita Maria Teresa Alvarado is the Queen of Swords."

 

"Mary, do you think you could send someone to tell Doctor Helm? Juan knows where he is."

 

"Juan left just after you arrived. I would imagine your fiancé will be here before we leave."

 

"Oh no. I just wanted to let him know where I am so he doesn’t worry. Besides, he isn’t my fiancé."

 

Tessa shuddered slightly, and soon felt a hand on her shoulder. "That man loves you, Maria Teresa, and nothing will stop him. Now, come with me and we’ll get the medicine on your eyes." The Captain gently took hold of her arm and helped her to her feet. They started to walk somewhere, but before they got too far Tessa paused.

 

"Mary Rose,” she asked, her voice trembling slightly. “What…what if I am permanently blind? What will happen to the people if I can’t fight to protect them?"

 

Tessa felt Mary Rose’s arm go around her shoulders, squeezing slightly. She winced, the pain in her probably-bruised ribs returning. Captain Guevera didn’t seem to notice, though. "Don't worry Maria Teresa, I’m sure you’ll figure something out. I mean, you could always be a blind swordswoman like that man in Japan…Zatoichi, I believe his name is. I heard about him from some Portuguese sailors I know."

 

“Yeah, right. I couldn’t even fend off a couple of lousy soldiers this morning and you expect me to be some sort of blind wonder-woman? I don’t think so.”

 

“Well, like I said, you’ll think of something. In the meantime, let’s leave this pity party and go see about that medicine. Alright?”

 

She shrugged. “Do I have a choice?”

 

Chapter 3

 

As Helm walked out of an Ap he saw a rider on Chico, coming in fast. He looked over and saw Churi walk to the edge of the village. The rider was on the ground before his horse stopped. "Doctor, I have a message from Señorita Alvarado and my jefa, Mary Rose. You must come quickly."

 

"Slow down Juan, what’s happened?"

 

Juan took a deep breath. "I found Señorita Alvarado this afternoon. She was riding north, but told me she was lost. I took her to the Captain, who discovered she was blind. I don't know how, but her face looked like it had been burned."

 

"It's getting dark. We will leave in the morning."

 

Juan shook his head. "No Doctor. We must leave now. Mary Rose is taking the Señorita aboard her ship in the morning."

 

Helm nodded as he turned to Churi. "You heard? Juan needs another horse, Chico is too spent to ride back."

 

"One of my warriors is already getting one. It's a good thing you found that herd last year. Our sister has kept a string near here. Safe journey brother."

 

A warrior led two horses into the village. Helm began to mount. "If Tessa is hurt, Montoya may come here to arrest me to keep me from helping."

 

"Don't worry brother. We will delay them." He smiled as he signaled to another warrior. Ten warriors ran up carrying muskets. "We have learned from the white-man. Now go."

 

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

 

Tessa was in the middle of a particularly pleasant dream involving Roberto and a hot spring when she felt someone shaking her and calling her name. Reluctantly, she tore herself away and opened her eyes, only to find herself in total darkness. She shot up, her breath quickening and sightless eyes darting about the room in a futile attempt to get a sense of her surroundings. “Alright, what’s going on? I don’t know who’s out there, but could someone please light a candle or something already? This isn’t funny.” As her panic worsened, a pair of hands grasped her shoulders.

 

“Tessa, I need you to calm down, alright?” Recognizing Mary Rose’s voice, she tried to do as the Captain asked, but it didn’t seem to be working.

 

“What’s happening?”

 

“You’re blind, remember? It happened yesterday when Grisham threw that bomb at you.”

 

“Oh…right,” she said, shivering as the memory returned. “And here I was hoping it was all some horrible nightmare.” It took her a few moments, but Tessa finally managed to get her breathing back to normal. Captain Guevera gave her shoulder a slight squeeze, attempting to comfort her.

 

“I really wish it was, Tessa, but I’m afraid the situation is all too real.” Nodding, Tessa brought a hand up to her eyes and found them covered in some kind of cloth.

 

“Mary Rose, if I’m blind, then why am I wearing a blindfold? Afraid I’ll give away some of your secrets?”

 

Mary laughed. "You’re quick Maria Teresa. That’s the reason...in case you were faking." She removed her hands from Tessa’s shoulders and patted her on the arm. "Actually, it’s not a blindfold; it’s a bandage containing a mixture of aloe and other medicines. Not only for your eyes, but also for your face, which was burned as well. Without the mask, you look like a raccoon."

 

Tessa shook her head. "Great, even if I recover my eye sight, everyone will know who I am just by looking at me."

 

"Not after a sea voyage and a sunburn. By the time we come home, you’ll look as tanned as any of my crew. Which reminds me…it’s dawn, which means it’s time to start making preparations to leave.”

 

Tessa groaned. “You got me up at dawn? Figures. Even when I’m injured I can’t sleep in.” With an exasperated sigh, she flopped back down onto the bed and yanked the covers over her head.

 

“Tide’s in. If we don’t leave soon, we may end up waiting until tomorrow, and I really can’t afford the delay. Now, come on.” The covers were pulled away and Tessa propped herself up on her elbows, glaring at the Captain. Or, at least, she was trying to. “Alright, Tessa, none of that. Get out of that bed and I’ll help you into some clean clothes. I’m pretty sure we’re about the same size.”

 

“Is that an order?”

 

“It could be.”

 

“Fine.” Reluctantly, Tessa pushed herself the rest of the way up, turning so her legs dangled off the edge of the bed. She listened as Mary Rose’s footsteps faded away, only to return moments later.

 

“Here we go. These should fit nicely.” Something landed softly on the bed next to her—presumably, whatever outfit Captain Guevera had selected.

 

“Whatever you say.” Thankfully, her corset had been removed the night before, so all Tessa had to worry about were her shirt and trousers, which could easily be taken off without help. She took care of the shirt first, wincing a little when she twisted the wrong way while pulling it off her arms.

 

“Something wrong with your side, Tessa?”

 

“Soldier hit me with some kind of club yesterday.”

 

“And you never mentioned this, why?”

 

She shrugged. “Didn’t seem all that important. Don’t worry, I’m fine.”

 

“I’ll be the judge of that.” She felt the bottom of her chemise being lifted, and hissed sharply when Mary Rose decided to poke her ribs. “That’s what I thought. They’re not broken, though. Just badly bruised. I’ll be right back.” The Captain walked away for a moment, and upon her return began wrapping something—probably more bandages—around Tessa’s ribcage. “You know, it’s pretty difficult to treat someone’s injuries when they try and keep them to themselves. I’ll let it go this time, but I strongly suggest that you not make this a habit.”

 

“I’ll try not to.” Her ribs now properly taken care of, Tessa somehow managed to finish getting dressed in the clean shirt and trousers Mary Rose provided with no further incidents and only a little bit of help. Once she was fully dressed, a couple of rancheros came and helped her outside and onto the Falcon while Captain Guevera left to take charge of the final preparations for the trip.

 

Chapter 4

 

Grisham ran up the steps to Montoya's office. "Colonel, I know you don't want to execute the Queen now, but I had my soldiers visit the haciendas to find out which Don's wife is blind."

 

Montoya nodded. "And what have you discovered, Capitán?"

 

"Well, the only women missing are Señorita Alvarado and that gypsy Marta. I guess we have our answer."

 

"Not so fast. Remember, Doctor Helm is at that Chumash village that we attacked. You know, the one that Señorita Alvarado spends a lot of time at. Did your men check there as well?"

 

"No, they’re scared to go anywhere near the Chumash after the last time."

 

"I see. I heard that Roman took Marta to the mission at Santa Barbara a few days ago. Señorita Alvarado may have gone with them."

 

"I will send a man to Santa Barbara."

 

Montoya smiled. "You do that, Capitán, while you are saddling your horse and mine."

 

"Why?"

 

Montoya sighed. "First of all, because I told you to do it. Secondly, I will lead the patrol to the Chumash village."

 

 

It was mid-morning when ten soldiers led by Montoya and Grisham neared the Chumash village. The last time he had been here was when one of his soldiers almost killed the young Señorita. Salan bucked as an arrow whistled through the air and landed in front of the horse. The soldiers fought to regain control of their frightened mounts. Montoya settled Salan down as an Indian walked towards them from the village.

 

"I am Colonel Montoya of Santa Elena. Why did you shoot at us?"

 

The Indian smiled. "I know who you are, Colonel. That was a warning as you and your soldiers are not welcome here. Go away."

 

Grisham looked at the Indian. "I know him Colonel. That’s Churi, their Shaman. We have ten men with muskets. We can storm the village."

 

Montoya waved his hand. "For all of your brilliant military expertise, Capitán, did you fail to notice that there are ten muskets aimed at us from the rock fence that Helm had erected? Besides we are here to see the Doctor, not start a war. Remember what happened last time?" He looked at Churi. "I wish to speak with Doctor Helm. Is he here?"

 

Churi gave a crooked grin. "No Colonel. My brother and sister are visiting friends."

 

"How long have they been gone?"

 

Churi shrugged. "Two, maybe three moons."

 

"Do you know where they were going?"

 

"Who can say, Colonel? My brother mentioned something about a…romantic trip, I believe was the term he used."

 

Grisham turned to Montoya. "He's lying. Who are this brother and sister he keeps talking about?"

 

Montoya frowned. "By your brother and sister, I presume you are referring to Señorita Alvarado and Doctor Helm?"

 

Churi nodded. "Sí. They are blood brother and sister to the Chumash. You should remember the last time your men attacked our village. I believe your Captain ended up being chased by our women, all the way to Santa Elena.”

 

Montoya nodded. “I remember.” He turned to Grisham. “We will leave now. I do not wish to incite a war or end up with an arrow in me.”

 

Grisham nodded. “Colonel, I had a thought.”

 

Montoya closed his eyes. “And what, pray tell, is that Capitán?”

 

“Señorita Alvarado is friendly with that pirate. If she’s the Queen, maybe she went there.”

 

“And how would she know where to go? She can’t see. No, we are not going to ride all over the countryside chasing a Doña who may just be visiting a friend. We will wait. If the Señorita returns and is not blind, we would make fools of ourselves. If she does come home blind, then we will act. Not before.”

 

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

 

 

 

While Grisham and Montoya were busy with the Chumash, Helm and Juan were making their way onto Mary Rose’s land. Upon their arrival, one of the other rancheros ran ahead to where the ship was docked. He rushed on deck and spoke briefly with the Captain, who was standing by the till. Looking their way, she smiled and waved them over.

 

As Helm dismounted, he grabbed his medical bag and ran to the ship. He had to slow as he walked up the gangplank and dropped to the deck. As soon as his feet touched, he made his way over to where Captain Guevera was standing.

 

“How is she?”

 

“As well as can be expected, under the circumstances. She should be waiting for you in the first mate’s cabin.”

 

“Should be?”

 

"Well, that’s where I told my rancheros to take her. But you know how impatient she can get.”

 

“That I do,” Helm said, feeling rather nervous. What if she’d wandered off and gotten herself hurt even worse? The Captain reached out and squeezed his shoulder, probably having noticed his anxiety.

 

“Relax, Doctor. I’m sure she’s still there.” She gave his shoulder another squeeze before releasing it. “Go to her. I’ll be down as soon as we set sail." Nodding, Helm turned and headed down below.

 

Chapter 5

 

Tessa sat on the first mate’s simple bed, deeply lost in thought until a knock at the door jolted her back to reality. "Quien es?”

 

"It's me, Robert. May I come in?"

 

"Why not? I’d hate for you to have come all this way for nothing."

 

She heard the door slowly open, followed by footsteps approaching her position. A strong, yet gentle hand brushed a few stray strands of hair from her face, and she felt the bed depress slightly as he sat down on her right. Rubbing her hands together, Tessa turned towards the man next to her and tentatively reached forward until the tips of her fingers made contact with his face. She slowly and deliberately ran them across his features; wanting to be sure it was really him. Unruly hair…strong jaw…exceptionally prominent nose…. His callused hands gently grasped hers, lifting them from his face. A moment later, she felt his soft lips lightly brush against her bare knuckles. "Are you alright, Tessa?” he asked softly. “How are you feeling?"

 

The moment shattered, Tessa quickly snatched her hands away, shoving them under her arms. “How the hell do you think I feel!” she snapped, regretting it immediately. “I’m sorry, Roberto. It’s just…”

 

“It’s okay, I understand. This whole thing must be terribly upsetting.”

 

“You don’t know the half of it,” she muttered. The bed shifted again, and she sensed someone in front of her, presumably Roberto.

 

"May I take a look?"

 

Tessa nodded and felt Helm's hands on the bandage. She heard a quiet intake of breath as he examined her eyes. "Well, Doctor, what’s your diagnosis?"

 

Footsteps moved across the room and, after a brief pause, returned to where she was sitting. “Tessa, look towards the sound of my voice and tell me if you see anything."

 

"There’s brightness on the left…no, right. Wait…now it’s in front. I must be going loco."

 

"No, Tessa. Riding around fighting soldiers is crazy. What you were seeing was my moving a lantern around."

 

“Is that good?” she asked, momentarily ignoring the comment about her activities.

 

“Well, it’s a sign.”

 

“What kind of sign?”

 

“That there might be some hope.”

 

“Might be?”

 

He sighed. “Tessa, you have to understand that injuries like this are notoriously difficult to treat. Mostly, it’s a waiting game. You might make a full recovery, but then again you might stay this way for the rest of your life. The fact that you could see the light from my lantern means there’s a chance you’ll recover, but there are no guarantees. I’m really sorry, Tessa. I wish there was more I could do.”

 

“I know.”

“How the hell did this happen, anyway?” Helm asked as he replaced the bandages.

"Grisham threw some sort of a bomb and it went off in a flash a few feet from me."

 

“Knowing Grisham's incompetence, he probably made it with half a charge. Be thankful the damage wasn’t worse. You could be in pieces scattered across half of the territory." He tried to take her hand again, but she pulled away.

 

“Maybe I’d be better off that way.”

 

“Come on, Tessa. Surely you don’t mean that. You’re blind, yes, but it’s hardly the end of the world.”

 

“Isn’t it?” She got up and started to stalk to the other end of the cabin, only to trip over some unknown object in the middle of the floor. A pair of well-muscled arms caught her before she hit the ground. After a moment, she pushed herself out of them and moved to lean against the nearest wall. “Look at me, Roberto. I’m useless! Can’t even cross a goddamned room without needing help!”

 

“You’re angry.”

 

“Gee, what gave it away?” A hand came to rest on her right shoulder, obviously in an attempt to comfort her.

 

“Look, I understand what you must be feeling right now…”

 

“Do you?” she demanded, shoving the hand away. “Do you really, Doctor? Tell me, do you have any idea what it’s like to go from being a hero to a goddamned charity case in the course of one day? To possess more intelligence…more strength…more skill than anyone else of your station could even dream of, only to have it all suddenly ripped away by some idiot with a really bad plan? If you do, please, for God’s sake tell me, because right now I seem to be the only one.”

 

“You’re right. I couldn’t possibly begin to understand what you’re going through right now. But I do know that giving up isn’t the answer. Tessa, the only thing you’ve lost is your sight, and that could very well return. And even if it doesn’t, all those other things you mentioned are still part of you. You’ll just have to learn a different way to do things, is all.” Tessa felt those strong arms draw her into his chest, one hand stroking her hair while the other made tiny circles on the small of her back. “It’ll be alright, Tessa,” he whispered. “I promise.” That did it. Mustering all the strength she could, Tessa suddenly shoved Helm away, gaining a small measure of satisfaction when she heard him hit the floor.

 

“Don’t make promises you can’t keep, Doctor. The last thing I need right now is your pity. Now get out of here!”

 

“But Tessa—“

 

“Out!” After a bit of fumbling, she heard footsteps moving away from her, followed by the door being closed. Immediately she moved towards the sound, somehow making it without incident. A minute or two of groping later, she managed to locate the locking mechanism and turn it, effectively sealing herself in. Leaning her back against the wood, she slowly slid to the floor and, drawing her knees up to her chest, finally let fall the tears she’d been holding back since it first happened.

 

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

 

Upon exiting the cabin, Helm almost literally ran right into Captain Guevera.

 

“So, how’s the patient doing?” Upon hearing the lock turn, he took the Captain by the arm and led her a little further from the doorway.

 

“Ah…perhaps it would be better to discuss this in your cabin.”

 

“Of course. This way, Doctor.” He followed her down the hall a bit, and soon found himself standing in somewhat more lavish quarters than the one he’d previously been in. “What?” she asked, arching an eyebrow. “Isn’t the Captain entitled to a little luxury?”

 

“I never said anything.”

 

“You had a look.” As if to change the subject, she turned and made her way over to a cabinet standing in the far corner. “Some tea, Doctor? Or would you prefer something a little stronger?”

 

“In this case, I think stronger would be better.”

 

“That’s what I thought.” She removed a demijohn of brandy and two glasses from the cabinet and set them on the desk. “Please, Doctor, have a seat,” she said, gesturing to the chair opposite her. As he settled himself in, the Captain filled the glasses and then sat down in her own chair, propping her feet up on the desk as she picked up her drink. “Now, how’s Tessa doing? Is she going to be alright?”

 

Helm took the remaining glass and studied its contents, trying to figure out just how much to tell Mary Rose. “She…it’s hard to say, really. These things can be quite tricky.”

 

“Tell me something I don’t know.”

 

“Well, she was able to see the light from the lantern I held in front of her face, which is a good sign. But, as I told her, there’s no guarantee that she’ll ever make a full recovery.”

 

“I’m guessing she didn’t take the news very well.”

 

“Not really.” After swirling the liquor around for a moment, Helm lifted the glass to his lips and swiftly downed the contents. “God, I wish there was more I could do for her. But medical science only goes so far. We’re just going to have to wait and see what happens.” His thoughts turned to Grisham, and he stood up and threw the glass against the cabin wall in an attempt to vent his rage. “I swear, if I ever get my hands on that son of a bitch, I’ll kill him!”

 

“Get in line, Doctor. Soon as we return to Santa Elena I plan to have him keelhauled and buried up to his neck at low tide. Somehow, I don’t think Montoya would object.”

 

“Good.” There was a brief silence as Mary Rose nursed her drink while the doctor restlessly paced the length of the cabin. The Captain was the first to speak again.

 

“So, what about Tessa? How do you plan on handling her?”

 

“Well, I’m certainly not going to have her keelhauled.”

 

Mary Rose chuckled a little. “Not exactly what I had in mind, either. Seriously, what do you think we should do?”

 

“Honestly,” he said, coming to a stop in front of the desk, “I think the best thing for us to do is just give her time. She has a lot to deal with right now, and the last thing she needs is us hovering over her constantly. When she’s ready to talk to us, she will.”

 

“Yeah…when she’s ready,” the Captain muttered, tossing back the rest of her drink.

 

“You know we can’t force her to talk to us if she doesn’t want to.”

 

“Maybe you can’t, but this is MY ship.”

 

“Captain…” Helm shook his head. "Maybe some tough love."

 

Mary nodded. “All right, I’ll give her a few days, but eventually, one of us is going to have to be the bad guy…get her to stop wallowing and rejoin the rest of the world. And I really don’t think you’re up to the task. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have work to do. Unlike Tessa and yourself, I’m not on vacation.”

 

“Of course. I’ll just go check the rest of the crew. As I am here I might as well be the ships Doctor, you know make sure everyone’s in good health and all that. Good day, Captain."

 

“Doctor.” With a slight nod, Helm turned and exited the cabin, leaving Mary Rose to…whatever it was she had to do.

 

Chapter 6

 

Tessa stayed in her cabin staring into the blackness around her. During that time, she had refused to unlock the door when anyone came to see her. She could hear the sailor's feet as they walked on the deck above her and the creaking of the sails as the wind pushed at the canvas.

 

Footsteps stopped at the door and she awaited the inevitable knock. "Tessa, it's Robert. Let me in."

 

If she could have found something to throw, she would have. "Vaya El Diablo."

 

"I have food and drink for you."

 

"I’m not hungry."

 

"Tessa, you haven't eaten all day. Please open the door."

 

"No. Go away."

 

"If you won't eat, fine, but at least come out on the deck and get some fresh air."

 

"Why, so I can watch the sea and the dolphins as they pace the ship? You might as well tell Mary Rose to turn around and take me home."

 

"Stubborn twit."

 

As she heard his footsteps retreat, she lay back down on the bed and sniffed. "I suppose I could use a bath. I stink….Forget it. Why should I care? It's not like I’m going anywhere."

 

Three days later Tessa heard footsteps pounding on the deck above and down the steps. A fist hammered on the door. "Maria Teresa, open this door immediately or I will break it down!"

 

"No."

 

"If I break it down, I will charge you for the repair and it will be very expensive."

 

"I don't care. Do what you will."

 

Tessa crossed her legs and arms defiantly. She shook her head when she heard scratching at the door. A sudden gust of air bracketed her as the door came off its hinges. Footsteps approached her.

 

"Well Tessa, fortunately for you I only had to remove the hinge pins. Now get your lazy hito out of that bunk and get up on deck or I will have you carried. I have some sailors that would love to put you over their shoulder and carry you."

 

"You wouldn't dare."

 

Tessa felt Mary Rose move near and the Captain's breath blew in her face. "Don't try me, Señorita. My sailors are tough men and they cower when I yell."

 

Tessa considered the thought of being thrown over a sailor's shoulders and stood up. "Alright, I’ll go on deck."

 

"That's better. Igor, help the Señorita onto the deck."

 

She heard heavier steps come near her and a hand touched her elbow. "Sí, Jefa."

 

Tessa gasped as she felt herself being lifted from the floor and slung like a sack of flour over a very strong shoulder. "Put me down. I said I would go."

 

She heard Mary Rose chuckle. "This will ensure you do. Igor, if you please."

 

Tessa tried to struggle, but she knew that if she did get away, there was no telling how far she would fall. This man was obviously at least the size of Roman. She felt the ocean breeze and was relieved when her feet were placed on the deck. She heard lighter footsteps come up behind her.

 

"Maria Teresa, did you enjoy your ride? Here’s how this works. You will spend all day, everyday on the deck. I will set up a place for you so that you will be out of the way of the crew, but still get fresh air. If you refuse to come out of your cabin, Igor will bring you out. Do you understand?" Tessa felt a hand on her shoulder. "The correct response is Yes Captain."

 

Tessa nodded. "Sí, Captain."

 

Mary Rose laughed. "Sí, Captain for a Sea Captain. I like it. You do have a sense of humor, Señorita."

 

"Mary Rose, where are we going, anyway?"

 

"Hawaii. It is the hub of the cargo trade. We will trade goods from California in exchange for salt and sandalwood. Traders going to China take the sandalwood which is made into jewelry boxes which come back and are traded to ships heading west."

 

"What do you trade?"

 

"We run up to the Russian fort and trade for furs that we take to Hawaii."

 

"I heard that Hawaii was tropical. Why would they want furs?"

 

Mary laughed. "They don't, but the Chinese do. You would be surprised where furs from California end up. Places like Korea and Japan as well as China. Spain thinks it owns the Pacific, but there are Russian, English and American ships that travel all across the ocean."

 

 

Tessa leaned against the ships railing. “Mary, I can’t stand in one place all day. Is there someplace I can sit?”

 

“Small wonder after not having eaten. I am assigning my cabin boy, Tomas, to help you. He is a bit addled and speaks few words, but he will guide you around and change the bandage on your eyes. In fact, he should change it now, as it has been a few days. Just don’t expect a lot from him.”

 

“Why isn’t Doctor Helm doing it?”

 

Mary sighed. “He left after you threw him out three days ago. We were close to land, so we put him ashore at his request.”

 

Tessa felt a sinking feeling in the pit of her stomach. “He left? Where was he going? I need him.”

 

“I don’t know, Tessa, but he did say something about England and that it was over. Now, let Tomas lead you to a safe area or you will fall overboard.”

 

Tessa felt a light touch at her elbow. “Venga, Señorita. This way."

 

She walked hesitantly across the unfamiliar deck until she felt Tomas stop. "Chair Señorita, sit down, por favor."

 

Tessa reached down and felt for the chair before turning around and with Tomas' help, sat down. In a minute she felt the bandage around her eyes being removed. Tessa gulped as she realized that she could see light instead of the black darkness from just after she was injured. Looking around, she could tell when someone walked past her. "Mary, are you there?"

 

"Right here, to your left."

 

"I can see light. Not clearly, but there is a brightness now. Tell me it’s daylight and that my mind is not tricking me."

 

"Yes Tessa, it is nine o'clock in the morning. Tomas, apply the salve but do not bandage the eyes. Tessa, I want to leave the salve on during the morning, but for now, you will only wear the bandages in the afternoon and nighttime. I want you to get as much early morning sun as possible."

 

"Mary, my face itches something fierce, like I have scales."

 

The Sea Captain laughed. "Your face is peeling from the burns. I have an aloe plant in my cabin. We’ll put that on your face at night. It is healing, and you don't look as much like a raccoon as you did before…more like a molting snake."

 

Tessa frowned. "Thanks a lot…that makes me feel so much better."

 

"Just don't scratch."

 

"Sí, Mama Mary Rose."

 

"Smart alec. Tomas, when you are through please come to my cabin. Make sure she eats something, even if you have to force feed her."

 

"Sí, Señora."

 

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

An hour later, Tomas walked into the Captain's quarters. "Should we tell her, Captain?"

 

Mary looked at Tomas. "Not yet. She has to rebuild her confidence in case she doesn't regain her sight. I think a little sword play would work wonders."

 

"Mary Rose, she is blind. She could hurt herself or someone else."

 

Mary Rose laughed. "My dear Tomas, that is why you will be her partner."

 

"Me? I am just your addle-minded cabin boy, remember?"

 

She smiled. "Ah yes, but then in my line of work, even the cabin boy must be able to fight. Now you could always be Guillermo, my cargo handler."

 

Tomas shook his head. "I will train Tessa."

 

"Good. Just stay out of the way of her sword. I’d hate for your blood to be on her hands."

 

Tomas laughed. "Me tambien. You know, she almost bit me when I was feeding her."

 

“Why?”

 

Tomas laughed. “I held her nose so she would open her mouth.”

 

Chapter 7

 

Grisham paced the floor of Montoya's office as he waited for the Colonel to return from his meeting with Don Hidalgo on the patio. He stopped as Montoya entered. "Colonel, I need to speak to you."

 

Montoya frowned. "Is that why you broke into my office?"

 

"I didn't want any one to hear what I have to say."

 

Montoya walked around the desk and sat down in his oak swivel chair. "What is it?"

 

"It has been two weeks and neither Doctor Helm nor Señorita Alvarado have been seen. Isn't it about time that the Alvarado hacienda was confiscated?"

 

Montoya shook his head. "Always the bull in the china shop, Grisham. You may be right about the Señorita, but I don't think now is the time. You know, I met with Don Hidalgo and inquired about our missing duo."

 

"Does he know anything?"

 

"No. What is interesting is that your lovely Señora went to see Tessa and was met by several Chumash who were guarding the hacienda along with her rancheros. I met with the Petroffs earlier and Marta assures me they are on a ship. The Falcon."

 

"Mary Rose." Grisham nodded. "Well, the Chumash can be run off and the rancheros bought off."

 

Montoya shook his head. "Unlike you, Capitán, her rancheros are loyal and the Chumash are blood relatives."

 

"If she is innocent, why would her hacienda be guarded? Maybe she and Helm are holed up there."

 

"Would you leave your hacienda for weeks unguarded? Look what happened between her father's death and her arrival. Someone ransacked her home."

 

Grisham shifted his feet nervously. "You have a point, Colonel."

 

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

 

The light breeze of the gentle Pacific gave way to a strong gale and high seas a week later. As the winds kicked up, Mary Rose took Tessa by the elbow and led her to the cabin. The ship lurched to the side, tossing both women off of their feet. "Tessa, stay in your cabin and on the bunk. I will raise the sidebars so you won't fall off. The Pacific is no longer peaceful."

 

Tessa nodded. “I feel squeamish, just like I did when we rounded Tierra del Fuego. I was sick the entire time."

 

"Don't feel bad, it happens to the best of us. Give me your hand."

 

Tessa sat on the bunk and let Mary guide her hand to the side rails and then down to a round object. “What the hell is that?"

 

"That is what you will use if you become sick. It is set into the edge of the bunk so it won't tip over. Don't worry if you miss. I’ll send Tomas in to clean up after the storm passes us by."

 

"Is that what the sailors use?"

 

Mary laughed. "No they use the other side of the ship, but in your condition you would fall overboard. In this weather, if someone falls overboard, they are gone. We can't turn around. You try and rest and…." She stopped as another wave hit the ship. "Damn."

 

Tessa heard Mary Rose race out of the room and yell. "Turn into the wave! Turn into the wave!"

 

The ship lurched again and Tessa felt as if she would be flung to the ceiling. She grabbed the rails and hung on for dear life. "I hate the sea,” she muttered. “Give me a horse any day."

 

As her hand felt for the bucket, she pulled herself to it and hoped her aim was good. A wave of nausea overcame her as the ship bounced in the water.

 

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

 

Hours later, as the storm ceased, Mary Rose caught sight of Tomas. "You look a little pale, Tomas."

 

"I don't know how you sailors do it."

 

"Yo no soy marinaro, soy Capitán.”

 

"I was a soldier, not a sailor. If God wanted man to live in the sea, he would have given him gills."

 

Mary Rose laughed. "Didn't you know that we bury our dead at sea because we have them?"

 

"I thought sailors went to Fiddler's Green."

 

"Why Tomas, I’m surprised that know our legend. It is our final resting-place. Oh…before I forget, you had better check on our patient. Take a bucket of water and a mop. You may have to clean up the place."

 

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

 

Tessa heard a knock on the door and groaned. "Come." She heard the door open.

 

"Señorita? Are you alright?"

 

"Tomas is that you? Yes, I’m all right, but my stomach is churning. Do you have any water?"

 

"Sí, I brought a canteen in case you needed it. Here, let me help you."

 

She held out her hand for the canteen. "Just help me sit up. Is the storm really over?"

 

"Si. The sea is like glass now with just enough wind to keep the sails full. The Captain thinks we should reach our port in a few days, unless we got blown off course."

 

"Have you been with the Captain very long?"

 

"No, not long." Tomas looked around the cabin. He picked up the used bucket. "I will be right back after I empty the bucket."

 

Tessa found his sleeve with her hand. "I’m sorry to have caused you so much trouble."

 

She heard him laugh. "Think nothing of it, Señorita. I had a rail to hang on to." He cleared his throat. "Señorita, the Captain wants you to start getting more exercise."

 

"Exercise? How? There are no horses on board, are there?"

 

"No. She wants you to start your sword practices."

 

"I’m blind. How in the hell can I fight with a sword?"

 

"By listening to your opponent. Besides, just going through the movements will keep your strength up."

 

Tessa curled her lips. "What fool will fight a blind woman?" She barely heard the response.

 

"Me."

 

Tessa gasped. "Do you have a death wish, or has the Captain lost her mind? You’re a cabin boy, not an expert swordsman."

 

"Señorita, even a cabin boy must defend his ship."

 

"Funny, you don't sound like an addle-minded person. Tell the Captain I will train with you, but as soon as my stomach feels better, I challenge her."

 

For the next three days, Tessa worked on her sword movements on deck in an area that had been roped of so no one would be accidentally injured. Every night, Tessa would relax in a tub of hot water that Tomas would prepare. Tessa put her head back and remembered the first day. Tomas had led her into the room and put her hand on the tub.

 

"Señorita, I will have a hot bath waiting for you after your exercises."

 

"Thank you Tomas. That would be nice."

 

"I can even massage your shoulders."

 

She had laughed. "Whoa, Tomas. I am the one that’s blind, not you."

 

"I will keep my eyes closed, Señorita."

 

"Sure you will. I suppose you’ll just feel your way. I don't think so, but thanks for the offer."

 

Her thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the door. "Quien es?"

"Mary Rose."

 

"Come in Captain." She heard the door open and close. "You come to give me a back rub?"

 

"No. I understand Tomas offered but you declined." She laughed.

 

Tessa shook her head. "Blind or not, he would have lost a hand. Where did you ever find him?"

 

Mary Rose chuckled. "Oh…around. Now, I wanted to tell you that, starting tomorrow, you will be going up against Tomas. Try not to kill him. He’s still useful."

 

"No promises, Captain."

 

For the next three days, Tessa and Tomas faced off, in a macabre dance of flashing steel. Every time Tessa started to get more confident, Tomas would disarm her. Tessa's spirit deflated until she gave up. "I can't do this anymore. I never want to feel a sword in my hand again!" She arched her arm back and hurled the blade away. Instead of a splash, she heard a thunk as the steel imbedded into something wooden.

 

"What the hell do you think you are doing?" Tessa heard the irate shout of Mary Rose. "You will continue to train and you will not throw your sword. You came within an inch of the Falcon needing a new Captain. Now, get your sword and try again."

 

Tessa shuddered. "No. I can't do it anymore."

 

"What did you say?"

 

"I said I can't do it anymore! I give up!"

 

A pair of hands latched onto her collar and lifted her up so her toes were just barely touching the deck. "I will not have a quitter on my ship! You will either keep training or get off!"

 

"No!"

 

"Yes!"

 

"No way in hell!" She shoved the Captain away and, ignoring the voices that tried to call her back, somehow managed to find her way back to her cabin and lock the door.

 

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

 

Grisham led a patrol through La Luna canyon. He scratched the stubble of his beard as he remembered the flash of the bomb and his face being burned. That was a dumb thing to do. Why didn't I just try and capture her with a sword instead of being the hero? As much as I would like to capture her, I have to admit that I get a rush just seeing her. I still remember the first time we met. What a woman.

 

"Capitán. The Queen!"

 

Startled out of his reverie, he looked up at the canyon walls. A woman in black on a horse was staring at him. She waved as she turned her mount and rode away. He half raised his hand to wave back then thought better of it. You go Reina. I am glad to see you’re alive and well. We will meet again.

 

Corporal Trinidad moved closer to Grisham.  “Capitán, we might still be able to catch her…or at least follow her.”
 
Grisham frowned.  “Corporal, how do you propose to follow her?  You couldn't track a goat in the mud.  It hasn't rained and the ground is hard packed.  It would take you at least fifteen minutes to get up there and the Queen is a master of covering her tracks."
 
Trinidad scowled. Montoya will hear about this.
 
*********************
 
The horse and black clad rider rode into the foothills, taking every animal trail and arroyo available until the land became a forest. The rider stopped and grinned and dismounted. Stripping off the black shirt, mask and pants, the rider jumped back on the horse and rode bare-chested away from the hills.  Tying a bandana around his forehead, Churi thanked the gods of his people for the deception that he used to confuse the enemies of his sister.

 

Chapter 8

 

Tessa stood perched on the rail of ship, one hand clutching the rigging as sightless, bandaged eyes stared out across the Pacific. The cold night wind whipped at her clothes, chilling her to the bone. Her mind whirled with activity as she steeled herself for the task at hand. What the hell am I waiting for? It’s not like I have a reason to stick around. I can’t fight…hell, I can hardly walk two feet without needing Tomas to guide me. Tomas, who Captain Guevera so graciously palmed me off on. She obviously thinks I’m a burden. Why else would she stick me with her addle-minded cabin boy? And Roberto…he finds me so repulsive now that he left the ship rather than stay with me when I needed him. Everyone will be much better off if I just go ahead and finish what Grisham started. She released her grip on the rigging and was about to jump when she heard footsteps behind her.

 

“Just what the hell do you think you’re doing?” came the familiar tones of the Captain.

 

“I’m ending it, Mary Rose. You won’t have to worry about me anymore.”

 

“That’s crazy talk, Tessa. Now, come on down from there and we’ll discuss this in my cabin.”

 

“Forget it. I’m not crazy, Captain. Hell, I don’t think I’ve ever been so clear in my life. I’m tired, Mary. Tired of being such a burden to everyone, tired of hearing the pity in your crewmen’s voices as they pass me on deck, and I’m damned tired of being so helpless. There’s not a single thing I can think of that’s keeping me here.”

 

“So that’s it then? You’re just going to jump and let the sea take you?”

 

“Why the hell not? I’ve made my decision, Captain, and don’t you dare try and stop me.”

 

“Wouldn’t dream of it.” A hand pushed into her back, and Tessa felt a rush of air, followed by a cold, wet sensation as she hit the water.

 

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

 

“What the hell are you doing, Captain!” yelled Tomas as he joined her on deck.

 

“I’m trying to save her life.”

 

“By drowning her?” Tomas removed his shirt and was about to dive in when a hand on his shoulder halted his progress.

 

“No. Not yet.”

 

“Why not?”

 

She sighed. “Tessa was about to kill herself. I’m hoping this will convince her of what a horrible idea that is.” The Captain peered out over the rail in time to see Tessa surface, sans bandages, coughing and sputtering as soon as her head was out of the water. “Cold, isn’t it?”

 

“What the hell was that for?”

 

“Just lending a helping hand.”

 

“Ha, ha. Very funny. Now that you’ve had your fun at the poor blind girl’s expense, why don’t you lend me a helping hand back onto the ship?”

 

“Why? So you can try this again soon as my back is turned? I don’t think so.”

 

“So you’re just going to leave me out here to die?”

 

“That’s what you wanted, isn’t it? To die, to sleep…to sleep, perchance to dream…”

 

Tomas looked at her quizzically. “Shakespeare?”

 

“Hamlet.”

 

“How fitting,” he muttered. Nodding, Mary Rose returned her attention to Tessa, whose head was now darting about nervously, as if searching for some unseen danger.

 

“Something wrong?”

 

“Cagajōn...I just remembered that there are things out here that’ll eat me.”

 

“You won’t have to worry about them. Temperature will probably get you first. It can drop pretty quickly at night. By the time any creatures start sniffing around, you’ll be too numb from the cold to care.” The Captain could see that Tessa was really starting to panic now, and took it as a sign that she was getting through. All she needed was a few more minutes, but soon realized that was not to be as something streaked past her and plunged into the depths. “No, Tomas!” she called out, but it was too late. “Damn it!” She pounded her fist against the rail in frustration, and whirled around to glare at the crewmen who’d gathered to watch the spectacle unfold. “Don’t just stand there, you dogs! Get some rope!”

 

“Aye, Aye Captain!” they shouted in unison as they scrambled all over themselves to follow the order.

 

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

 

Dios, Tessa thought as she struggled to tread water. She’s not really going to just leave me out her, is she? The Captain suddenly stopped talking, and she really started to get worried. Oh no…what if she’s left already? I was right. She really does see me as a burden. Probably couldn’t wait to get rid of me. Just as panic threatened to overwhelm her, Tessa heard a splash nearby and felt a strong arm wrap itself around her waist. Instinctively, she started struggling against the intrusion, until a soft voice whispered in her ear.

 

“Shh…it’s alright, Tessa. I’ve got you. I’m not going to let you die.”

 

“Tomas?”

 

“Si, Señorita. I need you to wrap your arms around my neck, por favor, and hold on tight.” Tessa quickly did as he asked and soon found herself being pulled, presumably, closer to the ship. Curiosity got the better of her and, as they moved, she carefully pulled one hand away and took a moment to explore Tomas’ features. Wet, matted hair…strong jaw…exceptionally prominent nose…. Wait a minute…

 

“Roberto?” He didn’t answer, and soon the two of them were being pulled out of the water and onto the deck. Upon coming over the rail, they landed in what Tessa could only assume was a rather undignified heap. As they worked to untangle themselves, she heard booted feet running in their direction.

 

“Are you two alright?”

 

“I’m fine, Captain,” Tessa answered. “Sure, I’m wet, cold, and my eyes are burning, but otherwise, I’m just great.”

 

As soon as she said the words, Tessa felt two hands lift her face. "Get me some clear water!” shouted Tomas…no, Roberto. A minute later, water was poured over her face and her eyelids were pulled back so her eyes could be flushed out. Once the water had done its job, she got the sensation of something being gently pulled off her eyes just before fresh bandages were placed over them. Her eyes properly tended to, Tessa felt a couple of large hands grab her arms and help her to her feet.

 

“Thank you, Igor. Now, I need you to escort the Señorita to the hold and make sure she stays there.”

 

“What!” yelled Tessa and Helm in unison.

 

“I’m sorry, Tessa, but after tonight’s display, there’s no way in hell I’m letting you run around my ship unsupervised. How can I be certain you won’t try and find some other way to end your life if you’re that damned determined to do so? Now, I know for a fact that there’s nothing in my hold that can be used towards that purpose, so there you will stay until I can be sure you’ve gotten this nonsense out of your head. Understand?”

 

She nodded slowly. “Si, Captain.”

 

“Good. Because if you don’t straighten yourself out by the time we reach the next port, I will leave you there.”

 

“You’re bluffing.”

 

“Tessa, I never bluff. Igor, if you would…”

 

“Yes, Captain.” Tessa was immediately hit with a sense of déjà vu as the large man hoisted her over his shoulder and carried her off.

 

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

 

“You’re not serious Captain, are you?” Helm asked as he watched Tessa being taken below.

 

“About what?”

 

“Leaving her at the next port.”

 

“Damned right I am.”

 

“How can you be so bloody heartless?”

 

“You should talk, Doctor. It wasn’t my idea to lie to the poor girl…make her think you’d abandoned her when she needed you most.”

 

“I was just trying to help. And you went along with it, Captain, so don’t try and lay all the blame at my feet.”

 

“Yes, I did help…and that was my mistake. Look, Doctor, I’m a very busy woman. I have a ship to run, cargo to deliver, and a great many duties that I’ve been neglecting in order to try and help Tessa through this. After what she tried to pull tonight, I no longer feel I have the time or the energy to deal with her dramatics. So if you want her to remain on board my ship, I would strongly suggest that you find a way to help her get through these issues of hers. Otherwise, the next stop we make will be her last one on this ship. If you have a problem with that, then you can bloody well stay behind with her. Am I making myself clear, Doctor?”

 

“Yes, Captain.”

 

Chapter 9

 

Tessa felt her feet being gently placed on the deck of the hold. She could tell it was the hold as it smelled damp and dingy. On top of that, her feet squished when her weight was on them. She put out her hand and felt around. “Igor?”

 

“Sí, Señorita. I am here. La Jefa said to bring you here but she didn’t say you had to be alone.”

 

“Gracias, Igor. Say, would you please get me some water? I need a drink and my eyes still burn.”

 

“Sí, Señorita, I will be right back.”

 

Tessa heard him leave. “Oh great, blind and in a hold with my boots full of water. Well at least I can empty them.” She pulled off the left boot and dumped the water out. Keeping the boot in her lap, she lowered the foot while bringing the other one up to remove the boot. She jumped and almost screamed as a furry thing crawled over the bare foot on the floor. “If I could see, I’d throw my boot at you. Since I can’t, I’ll just have to scream at you.”

 

She shook her head. “Now I’m talking to rats.” She heard the sound of boots. “Igor, is that you?”

 

“Sí.”

 

“Tell me, was the Captain serious?”

 

“La Jefa does not bluff, Señorita. She once tied a man to the crows nest because he was afraid of heights.”

 

“That’s terrible. What happened? Is he still alive?”

 

She heard him laugh. “I would hope he’s alive, since it was me. Now I stay up there during the day and watch the others swab the deck.”

 

“You know, Igor, I feel like I know you.”

 

“You know my cousin.”

 

“Your cousin?”

 

“Sí. Roman Petroff.”

 

Tessa laughed. “No wonder you are so big.”

 

“That is a nice sound, Señorita.”

 

“What is?”

 

“Your laughter.” He handed her a cup of water.

 

“I haven’t had much to laugh at recently.”  She took off the bandages and accepted the water as she tilted her head back to wash out her eyes. When she finished, she handed the cup back to Igor, who replaced it with another.  She drank the contents of that one and returned it to the large man.   “Gracias, Igor.  I hate to be a bother, but could you see if there is something Doctor Helm can do about the itchiness in my eyes?  I feel like I need to scratch them from the back.”

 

“Sí, Señorita.” Tessa listened as she heard him hustle up the stairs to the main deck.

 

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

 

Helm paced the deck in his bare feet, having taken to the uniform of the sailors--three quarter length pants and no shoes. He looked up as he saw Igor emerge from the hold. "Igor, how is she?"

 

"Better. She had some water and washed her eyes again. She wanted me to find something to stop them from itching."

 

Helm nodded. "Do me a favor. Get my bag from the foc'sle and meet me in the hold. Helm padded across the deck and lit a lantern as he entered the hold, holding it up high in search of his quarry. His bare feet were barely audible as he moved toward the bow of the ship.

 

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

 

Tessa was uncomfortable sitting in a hold with rats running around. She held her breath as she heard a light sound, gasping when she turned towards it because she could see a light coming her way. "Who’s there?"

 

"Tessa, it's Robert. Where are you?"

 

"Aqui,” she called out as she stood.

 

"Tessa, I heard that your eyes itch. I think I can help."

 

"Just give me the medicine and go. I don't want you near me." She heard him stop.

 

"Tessa…"

 

She held up her hand. "Don't. You lied to me. You pretended to leave so you could make fun of me. Poor blind useless Tessa."

 

"That's not how it was. I pretended to leave so you would find your strength. I never left. I was always there for you, just as Tomas. It was I who risked my life when you went overboard."

 

"Why, so I would be beholding to you? So I would fall into your arms? I don't think so. Now give me the medicine and get out. Leave me alone." She turned away from him.

 

"Fine. I'll have Igor bring it to you." He turned around and started up the stairs, but stopped suddenly. "You know, trying to kill yourself has to be the stupidest thing you’ve ever done. What about your religion? It forbids suicide."

 

"I was pushed."

 

"Maybe so, but you were considering it, weren't you?"

 

"Yes,” she said, after a moment. “I’m no good to anyone this way. What else could I do?"

 

"You could live. You fought hard to climb that cliff trying to escape El Serpiente. You’ve fought most of the garrison at one time or another and you dove off a cliff rather than be captured."

 

"So, what of it? That was then, this is now."

 

"Tessa, you are a stupid fool. You’re willing to fight and risk your life for others, but you haven't got the guts to fight for yourself."

 

"If I’m so stupid, then why don’t you just leave? Get the hell out of here!"

 

 

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

 

Mary Rose stood at the door to the hold, listening. She shook her head. "Igor. Close the door and lock it. They can stay in there until they work things out."

 

"Sí, Jefa, but won't they hungry?"

 

"Possibly. You can give them water, but no food."

 

"Sí, Jefa." Igor closed the door, dropped the locking bar in place and chained it.

 

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

 

The hold’s occupants both heard the closing of the door at the same time. Tessa turned to Helm. "What the hell was that?"

 

"It sounds like someone just locked us in."

 

Tessa stormed up the stairs and pounded on the door with her fist. "Mary Rose you open this door! I won't be cooped up in here with this man!"

 

Tessa heard a laugh and looked up. Mary Rose stood on the grillwork that served as a cover to the hold. "Mary Rose!"

 

"This is my ship, Señorita Maria Teresa Alvarado. If you don't straighten up, I will set you ashore on some island for the rest of your days."

 

Tessa turned towards Helm. "Would she do that?"

 

“If she could find an island of the damned, she would." Helm walked back down the stairs, looked back at her, and then at a barrel. He took the lantern down and lowered it. "Tessa, look at this."

 

Tessa walked down the stairs and looked to see what Helm was staring at. She gasped and looked back to the grill. "Mary Rose! You are a damn pirate. This is Alvarado wine and I know I didn't sell or give it to you!"

 

Mary laughed. "You’re right. That is your price for this voyage. You didn't think I carried passengers for free, did you?"

 

"You wait ‘til I get my hands on you." She turned to Helm. "What was your price for this voyage?"

 

"Ship’s Doctor and crew. I have been climbing the rigging for three weeks."

 

"Three weeks? I thought it would only take two weeks to reach Hawaii."

 

"Normally, yes. You do remember that storm, don't you? It blew us off course. Cost us a week.” He wandered over and started rummaging around.

 

"What are you looking for?"

 

"Something to open a keg with. We don't have food, but at least we can drink some wine."

 

She pointed. "There is a spike over by those kegs."

 

Helm walked over and stopped. "Tessa, you can see."

 

"What? Yes! I can see!" She held up her hands to her eyes. "Look at my nails. They’re terrible."

 

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

 

Colonel Montoya pushed open the door to Grisham's quarters. The Captain jumped out of bed. "Colonel?"

 

"Capitán, when were you going to tell me you saw the Queen of Swords riding around and didn't chase her? Are you feeling guilty about trying to blow her face off or are you afraid of meeting her?"

 

"No, Sir. We were in the canyon and she was on top. It would have taken quite awhile to reach the top, just to try and track her. You know yourself that she is good at hiding her tracks and the ground is hard packed."

 

"I understand. You used your superior military knowledge to come to a decision. I will let it slide this time." Montoya turned to the door. "Yes Capitán, I too know that Corporal Trinidad is no tracker. Just don't let it happen again." Montoya slammed the door behind him.

 

"Yes, Sir." He stared at the door and saluted with his middle finger.

 

Chapter 10

 

Helm finally coaxed the spike into the barrel and a thin stream of wine poured out. He caught the liquid in one cup and then another before sealing the hole with said spike. "Well, let's hope Mary Rose appropriated a good vintage," he said, offering her a cup.

 

Tessa almost yanked the cup out of Helm's hand. "All my vintages are good." She took a sip. "Ah yes, 1816. A fair vintage--one of my father's, but 1819 was better."

 

Helm gulped the wine and refilled his cup. "Too bad there’s no cheese." He sat down on the floor.

 

"Maybe there is. Doesn't the galley open into the hold?"

 

Helm stood up. "You’re right." He picked up the lantern and looked around. "Ah, here it is." He walked over and picked up a wax covered wheel about 1 foot across and six inches thick, then reached back for his belt knife. Taking the knife, he cut into the wheel and handed her a piece. "Cheese?"

 

Tessa took it, peeled back the wax and took a bite. She laughed. "Now all we need is bread, but I wouldn't think we’d find it down here." She took more of the wine and handed Helm the cup, who refilled it and gave it back. Cup in hand, she hopped up onto an upright barrel. "I really don't understand what is going on here."

 

Helm shook his head. "Like what?"

 

"Why I can now see and why I didn't realize it. Why Mary Rose locked us in here and why I hate you and love you at the same time."

 

"Well for the first part, I have a theory. The aloe salve created a film over your eyes that allowed them to heal, and the salt water created a chemical reaction that loosened the film. When you rubbed your eyes, you broke the film lose. You did rub your eyes, didn't you?"

 

"Yes. Ok, I can accept that. Now, what about the second question?" She drained the cup.

 

"You pissed Mary Rose off and I pissed her off by diving into the sea before she had planned the rescue. She hates people fighting unless she is one of the participants. She thinks we belong together so when she heard us fighting…" He shrugged. "I guess she decided to play match maker. She probably figured we would stop fighting or kill each other."

 

"She has a point. If you don't fill my cup, I will kill you." She handed the cup to him.

"Ok, what about the third? Why do I hate you and love you at the same time?"

 

"You love me?"

 

"Ever since the day you took my apple." She downed the cup again and swayed as she handed it to him. "More."

 

Helm laughed as he handed a full cup back to her. "I remember. I rode all the way from Texas to steal your apple. I thought you were the most obstinate, stuck up, beautiful woman I ever met." He drained his cup and refilled it.

 

She stared at him. "You thought I was beautiful?" She drained her cup.

 

Helm refilled her cup. "I still do." He upended his cup and staggered over to the cheese. He stabbed at the wheel, missed, and had to yank the knife tip out of the barrel. As he turned and slipped to the floor, Tessa staggered over and sat down next to him. She heard him say something quietly.

 

“What was that?”

 

“Huh? Oh I was just singing a little song about Fiddler’s Green. Mary and I talked about it.”

 

“How does it go?”

 

Helm hummed and then launched into the song.

As I walked by the dockside one evening so fair
To view the salt water and take the sea air
I heard an old fisherman singing a song
Won't you take me away boys my time is not long

Wrap me up in me oilskins and jumper
no more on the docks I'll be seen
Just tell me old ship mates I'm taking a trip mates
And I'll see you someday in Fiddler's Green

Now Fiddler's Green is a place I hear tell
Where fishermen go if they don't go to hell
Where the skies are all clear and the dolphins do play
 And the cold coast of Greenland is far, far away

Wrap me up in me oilskins and jumper
no more on the docks I'll be seen
Just tell me old ship mates I'm taking a trip mates
And I'll see you someday in Fiddler's Green

When you get to the docks and the long trip is thru
There's pub and there's clubs and there's lassies there too
Where the girls are all pretty and beer it is free
And there's bottles of rum growing from every tree

Wrap me up in me oilskins and jumper
no more on the docks I'll be seen
Just tell me old ship mates I'm taking a trip mates
And I'll see you someday in Fiddler's Green

Now I don't want a harp or a halo, not me
Just give me a breeze and a good rolling sea
I'll play me old squeeze box as we sail along
With the wind in the rigging to sing us a song

 

Helm looked over at Tessa. Her head was on his shoulder and only a soft snore could be heard.

 

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

 

The dawn was just breaking as Mary Rose stepped onto the deck. She noted that Igor sat next to the door to the hold. Smiling, she walked over to the big man. "Buenos Dias Igor. Que pasa?"

 

"Nada. They started out fighting, but it has been quiet for several hours."

 

"Do you think they killed each other?"

 

Igor shrugged his shoulders. "Quien sabe?"

 

"Well, we might as well find out. Open it up."

 

Once the door was opened, Mary Rose step into the hold, holding a lantern in her hand. She heard something, but couldn't tell what it was. Walking in further, she stopped, peering at the barrel with a spike in it. On another barrel was a partially eaten wheel of cheese. She frowned as she walked through the hold, following the low sound. As she approached the bow, she found a boot, then another scattered on the floor. Further on she found a pair of short pants and a shirt. Oh boy. She peered around a barrel, still following the sound. It sounded like a soft snore. She spied a lumpy blanket and approached quietly, grabbing said blanket and yanking it off. The Captain gasped as she found the flour sacks that had been uncovered.

 

"Looking for someone?" Mary jumped as Tessa and Robert leapt out from behind another set of barrels, whirling around. "Damn you! I should keelhaul you two for that."

 

Tessa and Robert laughed so hard that they could no longer stand. They sat down on the floor, watching Mary's face, which was now red with anger. "Igor, get some men down here."

 

Igor and three men raced down the hatch. "Tie them up and blindfold them. They’re going on a little trip."

 

Helm fought back at Igor, who promptly decked him. Tessa jumped at Igor and fell when the big man swung his arm back. She stumbled and went down, striking her head on a barrel. Mary Rose walked over and checked the two unconscious people. "They’ll be ok, and they’ll have quite a surprise when they wake up."

 

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

 

Tessa and Robert awoke to the sensation of something gently rocking beneath them. They both groaned as Tessa felt her head and Helm his jaw. Helm looked at the woman beside him. "Are you alright? What happened?"

 

Tessa tried to laugh. "You tried to fight Igor and got knocked out. I tripped and must have hit my head." She glanced around. "Where the hell are we?"

 

Helm looked about. It was night with no moon showing. "We’re in a longboat." He sat up. "Damn. She set us adrift." He sat back down and looked at Tessa. "Your friend set us adrift in a longboat."

 

"What? She wouldn't do that…would she?"

 

"Well, you can't deny that we are in a longboat and there’s no sail above us. What do you think?"

 

Tessa pulled herself up to the stern and looked over. "I can't see anything. It's pitch black."

 

"This is a fitting end, Tessa. You wanted to die. Guess you’ll get your wish."

 

"Wait a minute, Roberto. Don't you feel it? This boat is moving." She climbed over him and pulled herself up to the bow. "Look, there is a rope and it’s taut. She’s towing us behind the Falcon."

 

"Guess she got tired of your yelling."

 

"Me? You were the one making accusations." She sat back down beside him.

 

"And you were the one to call her a pirate." He put his arm behind her head for a pillow.

 

Tessa looked at him. "What do we do now? How long do you think she’ll leave us here?"

 

"Well, at least over night. That’s plenty of time."

 

She looked at him. "Time for what?"

 

"Hmm…time for this." He placed her on a rower's bench and got down on one knee. Taking her hand in his he looked up. He could barely see her face in the dark. “Maria Teresa Alvarado, will you do me the honor of becoming my wife?" He felt her pull her hand away from his. As he bowed his head and sighed, he felt her put both hands on his head and raise it.

 

"Sí, Roberto, but only if you will honor me by becoming my husband."

 

He raised himself to the bench before he bent over and planted a soft kiss on her lips—one that she eagerly returned, wrapping her arms around his neck

 

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

 

A thud woke Tessa and Robert from their slumber. They looked up to see the side of the ship and Mary Rose grinning from the rail. The sun had risen, and Tessa had to put a hand above her eyes as a shield as the light was hurting them. She didn’t say anything though, not wanting to spoil the moment. "Did you have a nice sleep? Sorry about knocking you out, but that was your own fault."

 

Helm rubbed his jaw. "That's all right. I had a good nurse taking care of me last night."

 

Mary Rose laughed. "I'll bet. Would you like me to have you brought on board for breakfast or would you rather trail behind?"

 

Tessa grinned. "Breakfast would be nice."

 

Mary Rose nodded. "Bring them aboard and tell the cook we’ll have breakfast in my cabin.” She looked up at the crow's nest. "Igor, keep a sharp eye out. We’re near land."

 

Tessa stepped foot on the deck, squinting against the brightness. "How can you tell?"

 

Mary pointed to the sky. "Birds. Those are land-based birds. They don't travel too far from land. Won't be long now." Tessa hadn’t looked up, and the Captain must’ve noticed because she walked over and laid a hand on her shoulder. “Something wrong, Señorita?”

 

“I’m fine.”

 

“Tessa,” she said, warningly. “I thought we already had this discussion back at my ranch.”

 

She sighed. “The sunlight’s really bothering my eyes. I guess this means the cure didn’t take.”

 

“Nonsense. Helm, please escort Tessa down to my cabin so she’s out of the sun. I’ll join you there in a few minutes.”

 

“Yes Captain,” Helm said, gently taking Tessa by the arm and starting down the stairs.

 

"Land Ho!"

 

At Igor’s yell, everyone stopped what they were doing, Tessa and Robert included. Mary looked up to Igor and then in the direction he pointed. “Well, don’t just stand there, Doctor,” she said, motioning for them to continue what they were doing. "I’ll be down as soon as I can. Breakfast will have to wait, though. That’s Hawaii."

 

Chapter 11

 

Montoya sat at his desk in a foul mood. It had been three weeks since the incident that made him believe the Queen was blind. Grisham had searched every hacienda looking for a blind woman but so far the only one he found was an old woman who had been blind for years. In the meantime, the Queen had been sighted five times from a distance. Feeling more confident, Montoya ordered a small wagon to Monterrey carrying a shipment of four sacks of gold for the taxes at night. He was elated, knowing that the Queen would never suspect a nighttime delivery.

 

Unfortunately, as the patrol had stopped to clear a small rockslide, the queen had crept up on the wagon and made off with two sacks of gold. The patrol had not suspected anything until three hours later, when they had stopped for another rockslide. Upon returning to the wagon, they discovered that the remaining two sacks were gone and a tarot card was in their place.

 

"Grisham!"

 

A guard responded. "Sir, Captain Grisham is in his quarters."

 

"Then get him here, pronto."

 

"Sí, Colonel."

 

A few minutes later the Americano entered. "Sir, you wished to see me?"

 

"While you have been searching for a blind woman, the Queen of Swords has robbed the wagon I sent to Monterrey."

 

"I was not informed of a shipment."

"Only myself and the patrol knew. Somehow the Queen found out and waylaid it. You and your blind Queen."

 

"Sir, you were the one who said she was blind."

 

Montoya frowned. "She was blind alright, but she must have regained her sight. Now the question is, where is Señorita Alvarado and what is she doing? Maybe the Queen has burn marks on her face as you do."

 

Grisham winced. "That damn Helm had to leave. Fortunately that gypsy took pity on me and gave me some stuff to take away the pain."

 

"Well, now you can try and find Señorita Alvarado. Since she is supposed to be with Mary Rose, station some men near her hacienda and try and find her and Doctor Helm."

 

"I already did that. So far they haven’t seen anyone and the Falcon is no longer tied up at the dock. It’s been gone this whole time."

 

Montoya scowled. “Señorita Alvarado…come out, come out wherever you are.”

 

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

 

As the Falcon headed into port in Hawaii, Tessa and Robert sat in the Captain’s cabin, waiting. True to her word, Mary Rose joined them a few minutes later, thrusting a small object into Tessa’s hands.

 

“What’s this?”

 

“It’s a pair of tinted glasses. They’ll help protect your eyes from the sunlight so you won’t have to spend the rest of the trip cooped up inside.”

 

“How do you know they’ll work?”

 

The Captain smiled. “A few years ago, my first mate was blinded when one of our cannons backfired during target practice. I treated the injury the same way I treated yours, and he regained his sight after falling overboard during a storm. Only reason we didn’t lose him was because he was smart enough to tether himself to the mainmast. Anyway, even though his sight had returned, his eyes were quite sensitive to light for sometime after. I had these made for him so he could return to his duties. He doesn’t need them anymore, though, and was more than happy to let you have them.”

 

“Thanks, I think…wait a minute. Did you know this was going to happen? That I’d get my sight back if I went overboard? Is that why you pushed me?”

 

“Wouldn’t you like to know…now, why don’t you go ahead and put those glasses on so we can go back up top. Unless I miss my guess, we should be getting quite a welcome committee.” Smiling, Mary Rose turned and walked out of the cabin. Her curiosity peaked, Tessa quickly put on the glasses as she and Helm followed suit. They arrived back on deck in time to see several outrigger canoes with four paddlers and ten native girls approach the ship. Happily, Tessa noted that the tinted glasses seemed to be doing the trick. Not a perfect solution, but definitely a marked improvement. The crew of the Falcon dropped over a cargo net and the girls scrambled up, carrying many leis, which they put over the heads of the visitors with an "Aloha". Tessa was shocked when she realized that the girls only wore grass skirts and leis, but didn’t say anything, as her own attire was earning her some strange looks from said girls. She scowled as one lovely native girl took off the leis she was wearing and draped them over Helm's neck, then laughed as Helm's face turned beet red and he looked at Tessa with a pleading in his eyes. An impish grin playing across her features, she walked over, took Helm by the arm and kissed him in front of the girl while she took her own leis and put them over his head.

 

Mary walked over to her passengers. "Well what do you think about our reception?"

 

Tessa shook her head. "I don't know anything about Hawaii. What can you tell me about it?"

 

Mary grinned. "Well it does not belong to Spain or Britain. On January 18, 1778 Captain James Cook, the British commander of HMS Resolution and HMS Discovery found Oahu and Kauai. He was actually thought to be a god by the Hawaiians as the reincarnation of Lono, one of their principal deities. He named Hawaii the Sandwich Islands in honor of the Earl of Sandwich, and he returned a year later and dropped anchor in Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island. He died there on February 13, 1779 chasing after a stolen rowboat. There used to be between 250,000 to 1 million people here, but Europeans brought cholera, measles and gonorrhea that decimated the Hawaiian people."

 

Helm shook his head. "Such a shame. The Spanish did the same thing to the Chumash. Mary, who rules here and what all is traded?"

 

"Well, rum was introduced to the Hawaiians and in 1792 Captain George Vancouver brought cows from California to Hawaii. In 1791 Kamehameha I became the ruler of the Big Island of Hawaii, and in 1792 he conquered Maui, Lanai, Molokai and Oahu. Then, in 1810 he unified the Hawaiian Islands under a single rule after negotiating a peace with Kauai. He believed he was destined by prophecy to unify the Islands and used western weapons to seize power. He shrewdly promoted trade with Europe and the United States. He died in 1819 in Kona. Kamehameha II took control in 1819 and ordered the destruction of all heiau (temples) and the end to the kapu (taboo) system, idol worship, and he abolished the traditional Hawaiian religion. He formed a dual rulership with his wife, Kamamalu. He is in control now."

 

Tessa frowned. "He eliminated their religion? I thought I saw some steeples in the distance."

 

"You’re right. There are missionaries that have arrived that are pitting the Congregationalist missionaries of the Calvinist ideology against that of the New England whalers."

 

A young Hawaiian girl walked by Helm and gave him a smile. "You kiuke." She nodded towards Tessa. "She aloha nui loa you."

 

Mary laughed. "She said that Robert is cute and that Tessa loves you very much."

 

Tessa smiled. "Muy verdad." She put her arm around Robert. "I will have to keep an eye on him. How long will we be here?"

 

"Only a couple of days. You can look around, walk the beach or what ever. We will be having a luau on the beach tonight, so don't get lost."

 

Helm nodded. "No offense, but it will be nice to get my feet on land again."

 

Mary laughed. "None taken. I have a house near the beach that you can use while we are here." She looked at the glances from Tessa and Robert. "What? I come here quite often for trade goods. Why shouldn't I have a house here?"

 

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

 

Alone at last, Tessa thought as she walked barefoot along the beach beside Roberto, having discarded her boots some time ago after learning the hard way just how much sand they could collect in even a short amount of time. It had taken them several hours of dodging hordes of natives eager to welcome them to the islands—most of whom had been scantily clad females—to finally find the spot Captain Guevera had mentioned. And it had definitely been worth it

 

“Have you ever seen anything so beautiful, Roberto?”

 

“Yes, and she happens to be standing right next to me.” Brushing her hair aside, he leaned over and brushed his lips softly along the nape of her neck, eliciting a soft giggle before she playfully pushed him away.

 

“Flattery will get you nowhere, Doctor.”

 

“I don’t know…it seems to have worked so far.” He wrapped his arms around her waist from behind, leaning his chin on her shoulder as they stared out across the ocean together.

 

She sighed. “This place is so calm…so peaceful. Not like California. I almost wish Mary Rose would leave us here.”

 

“Me too. But you know as well as I do that we can’t.”

 

“I know…”

 

“Something bothering you, Tessa?” he asked, lifting his head so as to look into her eyes.

 

“It’s these stupid glasses. Not that I don’t appreciate the gift, but what happens when we do go home? Montoya’s not an idiot. I waltz into town with these on, and he’s gonna know. Might as well be wearing a big sign that says ‘I’m the Queen, arrest me.’”

 

“Well, we’ll just have to cross that bridge when we get to it. Hopefully, by the time we get home everything will have gone back to normal, but if it doesn’t I’m sure we can come up with something. In the meantime, why don’t we just relax…enjoy the trip. The Captain mentioned something once about a volcano on one of these islands. Might be worth checking out, long as you promise not to try and throw yourself in.” Tessa’s eyes narrowed dangerously behind the tinted lenses, and she roughly shoved Helm away from her and stalked off further down the beach. He stood there for a moment in shock before it dawned on him what he’d said, and upon coming to that realization he quickly ran to catch up with her. “Tessa, I—“

 

“Don’t,” she said, holding a hand up to his face. “That was low, Doctor. Especially for you. It’s over with, and there’s no excuse for throwing it back in my face like that. What more do you want me to say, Roberto? I’m sorry. I don’t know what I was thinking—“

 

“Yes, you do.” He reached out and took her hand in his, brushing a light kiss against her knuckles. “You were thinking that the man you loved had abandoned you in your hour of need, and with him went your reason for learning to live with your…new circumstances. I’m the one who should be sorry, Tessa,” Helm said, dropping down to one knee. “It was all my fault for coming up with that idiotic ruse and making the Captain go along with it. I was afraid that my presence would just be giving you a crutch—an excuse for giving up. In my ‘absence’, I was certain you’d be able to get your confidence back, with or without your sight. But all that did was drive you further over the edge, and for that I am really, truly sorry. Forgive me?” he asked, a hopeful look in his eyes. Smiling warmly, she knelt down in front of him and reached out to run her fingers through his wild, black mane.

 

“There’s nothing to forgive, Roberto. We’ve both done things over the past few weeks that we regret. However, if you’re looking to redeem yourself, I think I know a way you can do it.”

 

“What did you have in mind, Mi Reina?” She leaned forward and whispered something in his ear, causing his eyes to widen in surprise. “Are you sure?”

 

“Positive.”

 

“Well, then, what are we waiting for? Let’s go tell the Captain.” The couple rose to their feet and, hand in hand, made their way back to the docks to locate Mary Rose.

 

Chapter 12

The sun was dipping into the horizon as the crew gathered on the deck of the Falcon.

The deck of the ship was covered with flowers while the crew stood around as an honor guard. Mary and Robert stood near the til and waited as Tessa emerged from below deck. Robert looked at her and admired how beautiful she looked dressed in a long, white holoku, a formal version of the muumuu, that a native woman had given her for this occasion. The muumuu was the creation of the missionaries who were shocked by the nakedness of the natives. On her head, Tessa wore a haku lei made of ferns and flowers.

Tessa stared up at Robert, who was dressed in a long sleeved white shirt and white three-quarter length pants with a red sash tied around his waist, but no boots. In the Hawaiian tradition, he wore a fragrant green maile lei, which had braided strands of maile vines with broad leaves across his shoulders. She smiled as she glided up the stairs on her bare feet to her fiancé and the Captain.

Mary took Robert's right hand and Tessa left in her hands and raised them. "As Captain of the Falcon, I have many functions. One of them is to officiate at marriages. In that capacity it is my honor to participate in this auspicious occasion."

Several crewmen looked at each other, shrugged and whispered: "what did she say?"

Mary lowered her hands. "Robert, do you take Maria Teresa Alvarado for your wife, to love, honor and cherish as long as you both shall live?"

Helm smiled at Tessa. "I do."

"Maria Teresa Alvarado, do you take Robert to be your husband, to love, honor and ob..cherish as long as you both shall live?"

Tessa winked at Helm. "I do."

"May your marriage flourish and blossom with each and every moment. May the blossoms you emote together and the bridges you will need to build along the way together reflect the love and respect you hold for yourselves and each other, and continue to represent to those around you a loving unity. He pûnâwai kahe wale kealoha.
(Love is a spring that flows freely.)

Mary reached to a small table that was behind her and picked up two leis and handed one to each. Tessa placed a lei over Helm's head and he did the same to Tessa. She clasped their hands together and looped a maile vine over them. "Awaiauluke Aloha - Love made fast by tying together."

Mary walked over to stand in front of the tiller. "The ancient Hawaiian word for marriage is Ho'ao or stay until dawn and that is what we will do. A luau will be the wedding celebration near the beach." She walked over to the newly weds. "One of the Hawaiian traditions is a ritual cleansing in the ocean at daybreak. You can choose it if you wish as the bungalow is secluded." She winked at them. "Stay on board awhile and come to the luau at dusk. The crew will go with me."

The lure of the tiki flames drew Robert and Tessa to the Luau. They found Mary Rose already seated between a white man and a native.  Mary waved them over.  “Tessa, Robert, may I present Captain Alan Gildcrest of the Flying Eagle, an American ship, and Chief Tatu?  He is a cousin to the King.”

Tessa curtsied and Helm bowed to the chief then shook the American's hand.

Gildcrest looked Tessa up and down.  "Señora, Mary Rose has told me that you are a woman who runs her own hacienda. I would like to visit it someday"

"I do run my own hacienda, Captain, and my husband and I would love to have you visit. Mi casa es su casa."

Tessa looked at the food.  "So tell me, Captain, what all goes into a luau?"

Captain Gildcrest leaned over.  "There are many dishes.  Banana bread, banana, coconut and guava cake, Chicken Lu'au, Haupia, kalua pig cooked in an imu, kulolo, lau lau, lomi lomi salmon, sautéed mahi mahi, mango bread, pineapple and poi and taro."

Tessa gasped.  "That is more food than we feed at a barbecue on my hacienda."

Gildcrest laughed.  "Royal Hawaiians are big people and love to eat.  Did you know that the last king was seven feet tall?"

Tessa smiled.  "Reminds me of someone else I know.  Tell me Captain, what is kulolo?"

"Ah…that is a pudding made of taro, brown sugar and coconut milk.  The Taro is used in many forms.  Taro is served along with the mashed taro root called poi.  You eat it like this."  He put his second and third fingers together, picked up a bowl of a thick grayish brown substance, took a glob on his fingers and plopped into his mouth.  "There is a bowl in front of you Señorita, try it."

Tessa and Helm each followed Gildcrest's example.  Helm grinned.  "Tastes like glue."

She blushed, but the American broke out laughing.  "Yep, that is the taste.  Poi is an acquired taste, Doctor.  You should really try the kulolo.  After the main meal."

Six Hawaiians brought forth a platform on which lay a large pig, head included.

Tessa's eyes opened wide.  "That looks like it was roasted.  How big of an oven do you have?"

"Depends on how big of a hole you want to dig.  A hole is dug, hot coals put in then the pig.  It is covered up and let to roast."

Serving girls wearing grass skirts and leis brought the crew plates made of teakwood.  As they were eating, drums started pounding and native girls moved around the table.  Tessa watched with interest as the girls lifted their hips as they swayed.  As they walked in a four count, they would lift their heels while their knees were slightly expanding and then bend their knees with one leg extended.  They sometimes kept one foot stationary while moving the other foot back and forth.  All while their hands told a story.  Two of the girls approached Tessa and Mary, obviously intent on pulling them into the dance.  The Captain went along, but Tessa politely declined, content to just stay back and watch.  With a shrug, the girl went over and grabbed Captain Gildcrest instead.  The American went along willingly.  As she watched Alan and Mary being taken behind a screen, Igor came over and claimed the now vacant seat.

A few minutes later, Alan appeared, shirtless and with a lei around his neck.  Over his trousers he wore a grass skirt.  Mary was similarly dressed.  Her shirt was tied up so that her stomach showed and it was quite obvious that she did not have trousers under her skirt.  Two native girls took each visitor aside and instructed them in the dance of the hula.  With the music and drums playing, Alan and Mary were taught to sway with the sounds, not only with their hips but also with their hands.  Mary caught on quickly but Alan laughingly moved his hands and feet in the opposite direction of the girls.  Tessa's mouth dropped open when the girls kissed Alan and he seemed to enjoy it especially since he turned and kissed Mary. Tessa turned her head in disbelief when Mary grabbed his head and returned the kiss.

As the dance ended, a man walked out carrying a long pole.  He lit both ends on the tiki light flames and as he began twirling the pole, the drumbeat began.

Tessa leaned over and whispered into Helm’s ear. “Mary said something about a cleansing. I am going to get cleansed and then going to bed.”  Leaning on Igor to gain her footing, she turned and ran through the bushes.  As she pushed through, she found herself on the beach and was glad that she was still barefoot. She ran down the hard-packed wet sand as the surf lapped at her feet, soaking the hem of the dress.

"Tessa!"

She turned at the sound of her name and tripped over a partially submerged piece of driftwood and tumbled into the surf. Tessa looked back and saw Helm staring in her direction.  Getting up, pulled up the muumuu so she could run.  She took three steps when a hand grabbed her and swung her around.  A kiss was planted on her lips as she felt herself being picked up and carried into the sea.

“You said you wanted to get cleansed.” He walked out until the water reached his waist and ducked them into the ocean. Tessa squealed.

“Roberto, that wasn’t nice.” He laughed as he carried her back to the shore and lowered her to the sand.

Time marched on as did the sea and before long a wave crashed over the two, intent on interrupting their caressing.  They sputtered as they came up for air.  Helm stood and pulled her up while reaching for her discarded dress and his clothes.  Tessa looked at her soaked dress and his pants and shirt as Helm led her to the bungalow.  "Guess we need to hang these up so they will dry by morning."

"How are we to stay warm?"

Tessa smirked.  "Well, we are married you know. We can probably think of something."  She pulled ahead and yanked Robert after her. Helm pulled her back as they reached the bungalow.

“Allow me, Señora Helm.” He picked her up in his arms as he used his feet to push open the door. “I know it is not our home, but I feel like carrying you over the threshold.” He felt her also tighten her arms around his head as her lips caressed his.

A soggy plop could be heard as the wet clothing hit the floor. He padded his way to the bedroom. “Glad Mary likes the comfort of home.” He placed her on the bed, but lost his balance and fell on top of her. 

Tessa giggled. “Roberto, don’t be in such a hurry.”

He leaned back and stared at the beautiful creature below him. “I think you need a physical exam, professionally speaking, of course.”

“Of course.”

 

It was a week later when a darkly tanned Robert and a very sunburned Tessa boarded the Falcon for the trip home.

 

“So,” the Captain shouted as they stepped onto the deck. “How was the honeymoon?”

 

“Think you could be any louder?” Tessa grumbled. “I don’t think they heard you in Tibet. Thought we agreed to keep the wedding thing quiet.”

 

“Right. You and the doctor are ‘engaged.’ No problem. I promise you my crew won’t tell a soul. Anyway…from the looks of things, I’d say you two had a little too much fun in the sun,” she said with a wink. Tessa’s face turned red with embarrassment…or at least it would have if she hadn’t already been so sunburned.

 

“Oh, shut up,” she muttered.

 

“Come now, luv, it doesn’t look all that bad. Although, I am rather curious about your plan for explaining to Marta how you managed to get a sunburn on your—" Tessa quickly clapped a hand over his mouth, glaring at him from behind the dark spectacles.

 

Mary laughed. “Don’t worry, Tessa. I think my aloe plant can take a bit more damage. The first mate’s cabin should be all ready, so why don’t you two head down there and I’ll have someone bring the plant over. I’m sure your…fiancé…will have you feeling better in no time.” Nodding, the couple made their way over to the stairs and were about to descend when the Captain called out to them. “By the way, do you think the two of you can try to keep it down? The night watch is trying to sleep.” The crew laughed good-naturedly at this, and soon Helm had joined in as well.

 

“Traitor,” Tessa said, trying hard not to laugh herself. She slapped him lightly on the chest and ran down to the cabin, her new husband only a heartbeat behind.

 

Tessa reclaimed her sword the next morning, and, for every day after, spent most of the daylight hours practicing with it, either just going through the motions on her own or sparring with one of the crewmen. Nights, naturally, were passed in Roberto’s company, both in a professional capacity and otherwise. As Mary had predicted, the aloe had worked its magic and the majority of her sunburns had healed within days, save for the ones on her shoulders and face, which he had deliberately avoided treating more than absolutely necessary so as to make her story more credible when next she met with Montoya.

 

About two weeks after leaving Hawaii, Tessa was in the middle of sparring with the Bosun when the Captain strode out on deck, cutlass resting across her shoulders.

 

“Rumor has it that you’re looking to challenge me, Señora.”

 

Tessa quickly disarmed her current opponent, saluted, and then casually made her way over to where Mary was standing.

 

“That’s right.”

 

“Well, in that case, I accept.” She backed up a few paces and assumed the en guarde position. “Whenever you’re ready, Maria Teresa.”

 

Smiling, Tessa saluted and did the same as the crew stopped what they were doing and gathered around to watch. The combatants circled each other, each one studying her opponent in search of an opening. Moments later, the two finally clashed, steel flashing in the sunlight. Moving faster than most of the crew could follow, the women seemed to be equally matched. Whenever one would appear to gain an advantage, the other would quickly take it away. Several furious exchanges later, Tessa and Mary had their blades at each other’s throats when a shout came from the crow’s nest.

 

“Land ho!”

 

“What do you say we call it a draw, Captain?”

 

“Works for me.” They backed off, saluted each other and shook hands. “That was a good bout, Tessa. It’s been a long time since I’ve had such a challenging opponent.”

 

“Same here. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have to go change. Can’t have Montoya seeing me in trousers now, can I?”

 

“Of course not.” Tessa quickly headed down to her and Robert’s cabin, and Mary Rose went to oversee the landing preparations.

 

Chapter 13

 

Dawn was breaking as Private Hernandez watched the hacienda of the pirate. 'Damn Colonel Montoya and Capitán Grisham for sending me out here. All night without even a small fire to stay warm by, just because someone might see me.' He looked out to sea and stopped. After a moment, he looked down at his fellow soldier, Private Martinez, and kicked Martinez's foot. "Pedro, get up. Pedro!"

 

Sleepily, Pedro looked up. "What is it Fernando?"

 

"A ship. Quick, ride to the pueblo and tell Colonel Montoya."

 

"Why should I do it? You go."

 

"I was put in charge of this detail and I out rank you."

 

"By two minutes, and only because they started the promotions at the front of the list instead of the back of it."

"So? It still means I outrank you. Now get your lazy hito off the ground and into the saddle. The Colonel will not be pleased if he gets here after the ship arrives."

 

Pedro got up and mounted. He looked down at Fernando and gave him a middle finger salute before riding away. An hour later, a lathered horse rode into Santa Elena. The rider dismounted and ran up the stairs to Montoya's office. He pushed the door open and almost ran into a startled Montoya.

 

Montoya stared at the disheveled soldier. "What the hell do you mean by storming into my office without knocking? Stand at attention!"

 

Pedro came to attention. "Sir, a ship comes."

 

"Why didn't you say so? Corporal Valdez, ready my horse, and then get Captain Grisham."

 

Corporal Valdez, who had been standing guard, stepped into the doorway. "Sí, Colonel."

 

An hour later, Montoya led a patrol to Mary Rose's hacienda. He stopped and pulled out his telescope. "I think they will arrive within the hour. Grisham, I want your men stationed under cover around the dock. No one is to move until I say so, is that understood?"

 

Grisham nodded and looked at the patrol. "You heard the man, get to it." He grinned as the men dismounted and ran to the dock, taking up positions behind anything they could find. Montoya stood behind a cypress tree, watching the approaching sails. As soon as the ship glided up to dock, several sailors leapt from the ship and caught ropes thrown by other sailors on board. They wrapped the Falcon's rope around the cleats anchored into the dock.

 

Montoya waited until Tessa and Robert walked down the gangplank and onto the dock, followed by Mary Rose. He stepped out from behind the tree. "Señorita Alvarado and Doctor Helm, did you have a nice vacation?"

 

Tessa smiled. "Colonel Montoya, how kind of you to greet us on our return. We had a lovely time."

 

Montoya squinted. "Señorita, what happened to your face? It looks like it is burned. Perhaps from the blast from a bomb?"

 

Tessa frowned. "Why Colonel, what ever do you mean? I have a sunburn from spending too much time in the sun, both in Hawaii and on the ship."

 

Grisham stepped out. "A likely story. I see you recovered your sight. How fortunate for you, but the burns don't lie. Your face is bright red, just like mine has been."

 

"I assure you, Captain, not only is my face sunburned, but so are my shoulders. Unfortunately, you will have to take my word for it."

 

Grisham gave her a lecherous look. "Come now Señorita, I am an officer and a gentleman. You can trust me."

 

Tessa laughed. "You may be am officer, but you are no gentleman. Colonel, will you kindly tell your dog that Spanish ladies are not accustomed to being pawed at by lecherous Americans."

 

Montoya grimaced and turned to Grisham. "You will treat Señorita Alvarado with dignity." He turned back to Tessa. "Please, Señorita walk with me into the shade."

He stepped aside and, as Tessa walked past him, he placed his hand on her shoulder.

 

Tessa gasped in pain. "Damn you. I told you I have a sunburn on my shoulders."

 

"My pardons, Señorita, but I think you just verified what you are saying."

 

Tessa whirled on Montoya and slapped him hard. "Here is your verification, Colonel. Don't you ever touch me again!"

 

Montoya started to open his mouth as Helm stepped between the two. "What happened to treating her with dignity, Colonel? You should know that a Spanish lady will slap you every which way from Sunday if you touch her the way you just did my fiancé."

 

Montoya squinted. "Fiancé? When did this happen?

 

Helm shrugged. "Somewhere between here and there."

 

Grisham stared at Tessa. “You have thin white marks on your face by your eyes…from a mask perhaps?"

 

Tessa laughed. "Sort of. Actually, they are from dark spectacles. I was not used to the sun glaring off of the sea. It is much different than coming across from Spain. See?" She pulled out the spectacles and put them on. “The early morning sun doesn’t bother me but as the sun gets higher in the sky, I find I like to wear them. Sort of a fashion statement.”

 

It was Grisham's turn to laugh. "Dark spectacles will never catch on, Señorita."

 

"Maybe not, but when you sunburn your eyes from the sea glare, you will try anything." She looked at Montoya. "Now if there is nothing else, Colonel, I will return home." She started to walk away and then turned back. "I wonder, Colonel, if you are still trying to accuse me of being the Queen. Wouldn't just be easier to ask her yourself?"

 

Montoya shook his head. "Oh, if only I could."

 

"Why can't you? I mean, she’s right over there." She pointed to a knoll where a mounted figure in black sat on a chestnut horse. The figure waved and started to ride away.

 

Montoya glared at his Captain. "Grisham!"

 

Grisham led his men at a run up the hill to where the horses were tied, only to see them being driven away by the Queen. He turned back to Montoya. The Colonel growled as he saw Robert and Tessa climb into a wagon brought up by one of Mary Rose's rancheros. Tessa smiled at him. "Can we give you a lift to town, Colonel?"

 

"Gracias, pero no gracias. I will walk."

 

Tessa look back towards the Falcon to see Mary Rose back on board. "Fair winds and safe anchorages, Captain Guevera."

 

Mary raised her hand. "Fair winds and safe anchorages to you also Maria Teresa."

 

As Robert and Tessa drove up the pathway to the hacienda, they noticed several Chumash warriors come out from behind rocks and bushes. The warriors waved when they saw Tessa and then disappeared. Pulling up to the front, Tessa spied Marta standing at the doorway with her hands on her hips. She dismounted and walked up to her confidant.

 

"Maria Teresa Alvarado, just what the hell were you thinking? Sailing off to God knows where without even a note." She looked at Helm walking up behind Tessa with a grin on his face. "Robert Helm, wipe that grin off of your face. You are just as bad as she is. Were you two trying to give me a heart attack?" She stopped her tirade and looked at Tessa. "What are you wearing on your face? A new kind of mask?"

 

Tessa grabbed Helm’s arm as he came close and then looked at Marta. "Didn't Churi tell you?"

 

"Eventually. One of Montoya's soldiers came sniffing around Santa Barbara so we thought something was wrong. We came here first and found Churi had taken up residence."

 

Helm cleared his throat. "Maybe we should continue this inside."

 

Tessa released Helm and hugged Marta. "Thank you for watching over my hacienda and worrying about me. Marta, I had to leave in a hurry and I couldn't see my way to Santa Barbara." The women walked past Roman, who stood like a giant tree. "Roman, your cousin Igor said to say hello."

 

Roman started to reply but the women had already disappeared into the house. He looked questioningly at Helm and saw him grin. "It's a long story," Helm said, walking past him.

 

In the cocina, Roman and Marta sat in wonder as Tessa explained what had happened to her over the last few weeks. Marta shook her head. "Madre de Dios…you were blind? God was watching over you."

 

Roman stood up, walked over and gave Tessa a bear hug. She yelped in pain as she pried herself from his arms and held one of his massive hands in both of hers. "Roman, you are a good man and have made Marta a happy woman. But if you do that again, I will have to kill you." She gently rubbed her shoulders. "Watch the shoulders. I wasn't lying when I told Montoya I was sunburned."

 

Marta whirled on Robert. "Why didn't you apply some aloe on her shoulders?"

 

"I ran out of aloe salve. Between her eyes and face, I used most of it. Then she insisted on practicing on deck in a peasant blouse,” he said, sharing a conspiratorial glance with his wife. Marta arched an eyebrow skeptically, and Helm prayed that the gypsy didn’t have any sharp objects handy. “Anyway, I used the rest of the aloe on her shoulders two days ago. That reminds me, we need to replace Mary Rose's plant. Hers is a wee but thinner than it was before we sailed."

 

Tessa squeezed Robert's hand. "I still don’t understand how fourteen barrels of Alvarado wine ended up on her ship without anyone knowing."

 

Marta stood up indignantly. “Fourteen barrels? I only gave her four. Why that pirate..." She stopped when she saw Tessa and Helm laughing.

 

Tessa looked at her. "She only had four. How did she manage to talk you out of them?"

 

"Actually, it was six. I gave them to her after you cleared her son of murder. In turn she gave me ten cows and a bull as a way to make up for my kidnapping."

 

Tessa gasped. "We have ten more cows?"

 

"No, you have two. How do you think Roman and I were able to get a small herd going on our rancho? We had twenty when we were married. I kept the bull, eight cows and the calves."

 

Tessa laughed. "For all the trouble I’ve given you over the years, I should give you ten more."

 

Marta looked at Roman. "Deal. Roman, pick out the best ten cows."

 

Tessa's mouth dropped open. "And you call Mary Rose a pirate?"

 

Marta smirked. "For all of the trouble you have given me, you should probably hand over the rancho." She stopped and looked at Tessa and Robert. "There is something you are not telling me, isn't there?"

 

As Tessa grinned she leaned over to her and whispered, "No one must know yet, but Roberto and I were married in Hawaii."

 

Marta's mouth dropped open, as she was speechless.

 

 

 

Epilogue

 

It was late night as Marcus Grisham walked across the pueblo square. Stopping at the fountain, he bent over and splashed water on his face. 'God I'm tired. Montoya has been working me to death ever since I threw that damn bomb. First it was trying to find a blind woman and now, with all the suspects back home, including the Queen, I have to ride twelve-hour patrols every day. That damn walk back from that pirate's hacienda didn't help either.' He straightened up as he heard a slight sound, like a scrape of something in the dirt. Looking around he shrugged and yawned. 'Man, am I tired. I could sleep for a week.' He felt a rag thrust into his face and smelled a sweet sickly odor as he crumbled to the ground and a kaleidoscope of color swirled in his head.

 

Grisham groaned as he tried to shake off the sensation of being light headed. Forcing his eyes open he saw nothing. Everything was pitch-black and he couldn't move. He waited a moment, collecting his thoughts. His arms were bent back and his hands were tied, as were his feet. He realized that a cloth sack covered his head. 'At least I'm not gagged.' "What the hell is going on here? Release me at once!" He sensed a movement behind him as the cloth was yanked off of his head. Bright light caused him to blink and try to shade his eyes from the hundreds of candles. Beyond the candles he could make out several figures seated in the shadows. One of them stood up and walked into the circle.

 

"Ah, Captain Grisham, how good of you to join us before your trial." It was a woman's voice. She was dressed in a black robe and her head was covered with a black hood. Only the eyes were showing, but it was like looking into two black holes.

 

"On trial for what? You have no authority over me." He squirmed.

 

The woman walked closer. "Since you’re our prisoner, it’s a moot point. Now let me tell you how this will work. I will read the charges and you will answer, guilty or not guilty. If you won't answer, it will be taken as if you pled guilty. I would suggest you take this matter seriously. Your life depends on it."

 

He squinted as if trying to see through the hood. "Who are you people?"

 

She laughed. "Now, that would be telling." She took a candle and walked out of the circle, moving behind the seated figures. "These are the members of the jury." All five members wore black hoods and robes. The juror's eyes however, could be seen. She walked towards Grisham again. "I am the prosecutor."

 

Grisham tried to pull his hands loose. "This is a kangaroo court." He watched as the woman stopped at looked at the jury.

 

"Does anyone know what a kangaroo is?" She shrugged. "No matter, this is a trial nevertheless." She produced a scroll from the sleeve of the robe and unrolled it.

 

"Captain Marcus Grisham, here are the charges.

 

Item 1: You forced a peasant into the army during the great fever even though you knew his wife was deathly ill. When he escaped and went home, you tracked him down and killed him. Afterwards you warned her to say that he died of fever. Guilty or not guilty?"

 

Grisham remained silent.

 

"Guilty."

 

She looked at the scroll. "Item 2: You did willfully destroy the Doctor's office at the time of the fever while he was creating medicine for the entire pueblo. Guilty or not guilty?"

 

Grisham squirmed but still did not answer.

 

The prosecutor nodded. "Guilty. Item 3: You did willfully appropriate and withhold medicine from Colonel Montoya. Guilty or not guilty?"

 

Grisham lowered his head as sweat poured down his face.

 

"Guilty. Item 4: You attempted to keep your lover unconscious after an accident in the hopes of convicting the Queen of Swords for the injury, when you knew it was an accident. Guilty or not guilty?"

 

Grisham's head came up. "I was trying to keep her from being murdered by Montoya."

 

The prosecutor looked at him. "Guilty by your own words. Item 5: You did willfully throw a bomb at the Queen of Swords, injuring her and endangering the lives of your men.”

 

"Who accuses me? I have a right to face my accuser.”

 

Grisham chilled when he heard the words. “I do.” He looked towards the sound of the voice. A figure came out of the shadows. The Queen of Swords.

 

“I accuse you, Grisham, of trying to kill not only me but also your own men.”

 

“I was doing my job. You have a price on your head.”

The Queen looked at the Prosecutor and nodded.

 

"Guilty.”

 

“Bitch…” Grisham muttered. As soon as the word was out of his mouth, the Queen flew at him in a rage, landing a hard right to his jaw before latching onto his hair and yanking his head back as she put her dagger to his throat. For a few tense moments, the Captain hardly dared to even breathe, certain that his time had just run out. Then out of the shadows came this hulking figure, also clad in black robes and a hood, who wrapped his arms around the Queen and pulled her away. He held her in place as the Prosecutor turned her attention momentarily to the ‘star’ witness.

 

“As much as I appreciate your assistance in this matter, Your Majesty, I would strongly suggest that you restrain yourself, or else I’ll have my large friend here remove you from this room until we have finished. Am I making myself clear?”

 

“Perfectly,” she replied, glaring daggers at Grisham.

 

“Good. Now, where was I? Ah, yes…Item 6: You seduced a Don's wife without even trying to be discrete." Grisham shook his head to clear out the stars.

 

"She came on to me."

 

"Guilty. Item 7: You conspired with the criminal known as Krane to capture the Dons and threaten to kill them unless they were ransomed."

 

"I had no choice, Krane would have killed me. Besides, I risked my life to keep Montoya from being blown up."

 

"Guilty. Item 8: You are a deserter from the United States Army and are wanted on charges of murdering your commanding officer."

 

Grisham tried to hide in his seat.

 

"Guilty. Item 9…." She paused.

 

A juror stood up. "Madam Prosecutor, he has pled guilty to all eight charges, need we go on?”

 

She nodded and rolled up the scroll. "Marcus Grisham, you have pled guilty to all of the items. You are hereby sentenced to the following: you are to be flogged ten times for items two, three, four, and five. On the rest of the charges, you are hereby sentenced to death."

 

Grisham gulped. "Death?"

 

"You will be staked out in the morning with your eyes cut so that you will not be able to close them. You will be blind before you die and the vultures pick at your body. May God have mercy on your soul."

 

"You can't do this."

 

The hood was jerked back over his head and once he again smelled the same sweet sickly odor before he was completely overwhelmed.

 

Grisham jerked up sputtering and opened his eyes to see a bucket of water being emptied on him. He looked up to see a shadow backlit by the sun.

 

"Grisham, what the hell are you doing on the ground? Don't I provide you quarters to sleep in?"

 

Grisham shook his head and reached out to find the side of the fountain. Something slipped out from under his shirt. Montoya picked it up and handed it to him. "You and your games…you don't look well Capitan. I suggest you see Doctor Helm. In fact, here he comes now." Montoya walked away with a grin on his face.

 

Helm walked up. "Grisham, my office was broken into last night and some items were stolen."

 

"Like what?"

 

"Like a bottle of chloroform."

 

"What's it used for?"

 

"I use it to knock patients out before surgery. In fact, I must have some on my hands as I smell it right here."

 

Grisham sniffed. "I will look into it, Doctor." He looked at the item Montoya had given him. It was a black hood and inside was a tarot card. As Helm walked away, Grisham did not see the smile on the Doctor's face, nor the smiles on five other people in the square.