QUOTE CHALLENGE #21

By Greg
gmccarron-hb@att.net

TRIO CHALLENGE: brick, medicine bottle, a piñata
NOTE: I have been lurking in the QofS Fanfic for a while and been enjoying the stories. This is my first attempt at a fanfic. This vignette takes place in Dea's world where Dr. Helm has discovered the identity of the Queen of Swords and started getting to know Senorita Alverado.
SPOILERS: None
FEEDBACK: Please
DISCLAIMERS: I don't own them. If I did they would still be working.

~~~~~

"This is wonderful news. I must go see Tessa at once."

Don Gaspar Hildego looked at his wife and with a twinkle in his eye stated matter of factually, "Remember, my petal, Tessa still has a hacienda to run and can't just receive visitors at the drop of a hat."

~~~~~~~

"Are the rumors I hear true, Dr. Helm?" Miguel, the pueblo's general store owner, asked.

"What rumors have you heard?" Dr. Helm asked as he carefully placed some salve in one of his glass medicine bottles. "Next time watch where you are going so you don't trip over one of the bricks the workers left around after your store expansion. To answer your question. You may want to stock up on piñatas. Make sure you keep that cut clean.

~~~~~~~~

Colonel Montoya was sitting at his desk when Captain Grisham enter. "Life in our pueblo has just taken a most interesting turn hasn't it, captain?"

"It has. That meddlesome doctor has stolen my meal ticket. I thought I was going to be the happiest man in California," Grisham replied.

"Maybe I will donate some of my roses to the event."

~~~~~~

Tessa swept into Dr. Helm's office just as he was cleaning up after his last patient of the day. "I see, Senorita, you still have not learned to knock." Dr. Helm stated with just enough of a smile in his voice to take the sting out of the words.

"Robert, if you keep putting restrictions like that on me I may have to retaliate."

"You wouldn't!"

"Only if you force me to." Tessa replied.

"It appears that our secret is out. Miguel just asked if the rumors were true."

"I guess the serious planning will have to start now. Marta will be happy. Keeping this secret was killing her." Dr. Helm looked at the simple piece of paper that had caused such a stir in Santa Helena. A huge smile erupted over his face as he reread the words.

Senorita Marie Teresa Alvarado and Dr. Robert Helm request the honor of you presence at their wedding on....

END

TRIO 22

DISCLAIMERS: I don't own them. If I did, they would still be working.
SPOILERS: None
FEEDBACK: Please
Thanks to Rodlux for betaing
NOTE: If you did not read my response to last week's challenge you may want to read it first as things.

~~~~~

When Dr. Helm had asked for help sorting through a couple of trucks he had recently received from England, Tessa had jumped at the opportunity. After all she told Martha it would give her a chance to spend some more time getting to know her fiancee. Now she was gleefully sorting through one of Dr. Helm's trucks when she discovered a large wooden mallet. "Doctor, is this some strange medical instrument?"

Dr. Helm looked up from across the room, where he was conducting his own treasure hunt, to see what Tessa had found. "It's a croquet mallet." Seeing the confused look on Tessa's face, he began to explain the intricacies of the game he played as a young lad on his father's country estate. He was rewarded with an increasing puzzled look. "Oh never mind," he finally muttered.

Tessa thought, So, I am not the only one with secrets.

~~~~~~~

It had been one of those days. Colonel Montoya felt he truly understood how Don Quixote felt when he uttered the now famous line, "When the head aches, all the members partake of the pain." He had started sorting through dispatches early this morning, worked throughout the day, and could now finally see the bottom of the stack as the evening ocean breezes brought relief to his kingdom. He picked up an urgent dispatch from the military commander in San Diego. As he broke the heavy red wax seal, he wondered what could be troubling Colonel Martinez. As he read the letter a dark fury settled over his pale grey eyes, anger inflamed his heart, and standing so quickly he knocked over his chair he yelled at the top of his lungs, "GRISHAM!"

What does he want now? Grisham had just returned to his quarters after having dressed down the troops for letting the Queen get away again and was looking forward to getting some rest. It can't be another quartan tongue lashing about letting the Queen get away. I already got that today. Deciding it was not in his best interests to keep the Colonel waiting he picked up his hat and headed toward the lion's den.

As he entered his superior's office, Markus Grisham noted the Colonel sitting calmly in his chair but pure rage radiated for his eyes. I had better be careful, he thought snapping off a crisp salute. Colonel Montoya let Grisham stand there for what seemed like eternity before his words cut through the air. "Captain, I have just received a dispatch for San Diego, the supply ship coming from Spain also carries an Inquisitor from the Royal Court." Before Grisham could digest the information, Colonel Montoya continued, "You will be on your best behavior."

"Yes, Colonel," Grisham replied as he saluted and turned to leave the room.

~~~~~~

Tessa slowly maneuvered around the wine cellar, watching every move of her imaginary opponent. A light bead of sweat had formed on her brow due to the heavy wool chemise under her white fencing shirt. When Martha had asked her why she wore that hot uncomfortable thing during practice she replied, "Maestro Torres once stated that you should practice as though your life depended on it, because someday it will. I can't only fight for justice at night. I must be ready to fight during a hot day." Since the wine cellar was the Queen's area, it was off limits to all but Martha. Hearing a sound behind her Tessa asked, "What is it, Marta?"

"The supply ship has arrived."

"We must go into town at once. Maybe there will be some oranges from Seville or some golden apples," Tessa replied with a twinkle in her eye as she remembered a chance encounter over an apple, "or maybe the red fabric you order for my wedding dress will be there."

"First you must change," Marta stated.

"Of course you are right, Marta. I must change from Tessa to Senorita Marie Theresa Alvardo." As Tessa changed into her white blouse and long blue skirt, Martha watch in amazement as the caring compassionate Tessa she knew became the arrogant self-absorbed senorita everyone else in Santa Helena thought they knew.

~~~~~

Tessa and Marta where happily strolling through the square after a successful shopping trip, when Tessa saw Colonel Montoya and Captain Grisham nervously waiting in the square as Montoya's coach arrived from picking up a passenger from the ship. Tessa strategically altered her course to take up a position behind the Colonel. As the visitor stepped out of the coach, Tessa felt a wave of happiness washed over her as she recognized the visitor. "Maestro Torres, your reputation proceeds you," stated Colonel Montoya.

"Colonel Montoya, flatter will not save you. I have been appointed by the Royal Court at the request of Governor Ryes to investigate why your garrison and your supposedly competent Captain of the Guard have been unable to stop one woman." Why you overgrown pompous peacock I could teach you a thing or two if I had the chance, but heeding the words of his master just days earlier he said nothing.

Observing Grisham's body language, Maestro Torres stated, "You disagree with me, Captain."

"No Sir."

"Captain, your mouth says one thing and you body says another. Which is it?"

As Tessa overheard the conversation, the warmth of happiness was replaced by a cold dread in the pit of her stomach and a tensing of her jaw as she said, "Martha it is time to go. As the two women headed back to the wagon, Maestro Torres eyes followed them because in additional to Grisham's reaction, he had also seen Tessa's.

THE END

By Greg

TRIO CHALLENGE: cameo brooch, weight scales, a lantern + epuration
RATING: G
FEEDBACK: Please
NOTE: For those of you who were looking for a continuation of my last challenge, sorry, The Inquisitor went underground, at Eliza urging, to the Virtual Season of Q of S. However, this challenge response continues from my first response where a wedding was announced.

~~~~~

"Marta, don't leave me like this." The protest fell on deaf ears as Marta was already heading toward the front door to see what the messenger, she had seen through Tessa's window, wanted.

I hope I don't have to talk to Marta. Her kind gives me the creeps. The messenger dismounted his horse and approached the front door of Alvarado hacienda. As soon as he knocked, Marta answered the door. "I have a message for Senorita Alvarado from Colonel Montoya."

"What is it? The Senorita is occupied. I will deliver the message to her."

"The Colonel requests the presents of Senorita Alvarado and her fiancee at a celebration this evening. He requested that I stay until I receive an answer."

"Very well. Wait here while I get your answer," Marta replied closing the door on the messenger.

"What did he want, Marta?" Tessa asked as Marta enter her dressing room. Marta looked at her charge, and had to suppress a laugh. Tessa looked like a red pin cushion as Marta had been working on her wedding dress.

"The colonel has requested your presence at a celebration tonight. The messenger is waiting for your reply."

"Do I have to go? The Colonel's parties are so boring. I have to sit around listening to all the Donas vacant drivel, while the Dons are discussing the important information in another room."

"Tessa, you don't have to go if you don't want to, but this is the first formal event since your engagement to Dr. Helm. It would only be proper for the two of you to put in an appearance."

"Of course, Marta, you are right. Tell the messenger we will be there, ask him to inform Dr. Helm, and then come back and help me decide what to wear tonight."

~~~~~~

Tessa had been in a tizzy since the messenger left. Every dress she owned was spread out on her bed. "Marta, can you make me a new dress by tonight, something that will highlights mama's cameo brooch?"

Marta just rolled her eyes. "Wear this one," Marta stated asked as she picked up a blue satin dress fringed with black lace, "and use the brooch to hold the black velvet shawl."

"Do you think Robert will like it?"

"If you don't start getting ready, we will never know."

~~~~~~

Dr. Helm had been in the middle of seeing a patient when the messenger had arrived informing him of his evening engagement.

Damn that woman, she always is speaking for me without asking me first. Now, as evening was approach, he was looking through his wardrobe to select a suitable suit for tonight's party. He had no doubt that Tessa would be her normal radiant self. He just had to do his best to keep up with her. After looking over his wardrobe twice, he finely selected a blueish grey suit. I had better get ready. Taking his wash basin from the night stand and filling it with clean water, he stepped outside his quarters into the golden light of late afternoon as the cooling ocean breezes began slicing through the oppressive heat and the doctor's hair. Setting down the basin, he looked into the mirror attached to the side of his quarters. Robbie, try not to cut yourself too badly. With that thought fresh in his mind, he rolled up his sleeves and began to shave.

~~~~~~

As Tessa drove the buggy toward the pueblo, she realized that her stomach was churring and she felt warmth on her cheeks even though the breezes had taken the edge off the heat. Why am I nervous? I have been to events with Robert before, but I have never been to a party as his fiancee. As that idea blossomed in her mind, a smile spread across her face, and the remaining trip to meet Dr. Helm seemed to fly by. Stepping out of the buggy in front of Dr. Helm's quarters, Tessa felt the happiness in her heart spreading throughout her body.

Knocking on the doctor's door, Tessa was rewarded with a clipped, "Enter," from within. Opening the door and enter the building, Tessa stopped in her tracks as her eyes settled approving on Robert Helm. Madre Dios. He is even more handsome tonight than normal.

My God, she is positively glowing tonight. "Senorita, you knocked? Are you feeling alright?"

"Yes Robert, I am fine. You have finally trained me to knock. Are you ready for our public debut?"

"Not really, I would rather be one of Grisham's punching bags, than listening to the Dons boost about their latest achievements."

"Would you rather listen to Donas talk about nothing?"

"Heavens no."

"Shall we go?"

~~~~~~

The lanterns in Colonel Montoya's courtyard seemed to dim as the most talked about couple in Santa Helena entered and the attention shifted to them. "You are just in time for the unveiling," Colonel Montoya purred.

"Unveiling?"

"Yes, Senorita Alvarado, the statue will stand in front of the administrative building in the pueblo." With a snap of the colonel's fingers two soldiers pulled off the cloth to reveal a statue of justice blindfolded holding a weight scale.

"He must be joking if he actually thinks people believe justice is blind in Santa Helena. It is always twisted to the Colonel's needs," Dr. Helm whispered to Tessa.

"Maybe Lady Justice will provide Santa Helena with the epuration it needs," Tessa stated.

With a knowing twinkle in his green eyes, Dr. Helm asked, "Isn't that the Queen's job?"

TBC

By Greg
gmccarron-hb@att.net

TRIO CHALLENGE: a fireplace, a shoe, cherries +"oniomania" (O-nee-uh-MAY-nee-uh, MAYN-yuh) noun - Excessive, uncontrollable desire to buy things.

Disclaimers: I don't own them. If I did, they would still be working.
Spoilers: None
Feedback: Please
Note: This vignette continues my first couple of posts. When they are done, they may be combined into a complete story.

~~~~~

Their debut had, without question, been a success. Tessa had enjoyed seeing all the senoritas turn varying shades of green.

The couple was slowing walking back to Dr. Helm's quarters, after Colonel Montoya's celebration, just enjoying each other's company. Even though the evening air had turned quite chilly, Tessa didn't feel it. The happiness in her heart spread warmth throughout her body.

All too soon, they reached Dr. Helm's front door. Robert turned and tenderly kissed Tessa. The kiss, while brief, contained all the growing love between the couple, laced with the promise of future passion.

"Good night. Thank you for a wonderful evening."

"You're welcome. When I come to town tomorrow, we need to discuss some details about the wedding."

"I will be at your disposal tomorrow, Senorita," Dr. Helm replied with a slightly mischievous twinkle in his eyes.

"Don't tempt me, Robert." With that, Tessa turned and quickly stepped into her buggy.

Dr. Helm turned to watch the buggy disappearing into the darkness wishing he could be next to Tessa to protect her. In just a few months I will be joining her as her husband. Smiling he entered the front office of his practice closing the front door behind him.

Entering his bedroom, he hung his jacket in the closet. Sitting on the edge of the bed, he liberated first his left and then his right foot, which had both started to hurt, from a pair of brand-new shoes. Note to self: Do not wear new shoes to one of Montoya's LONG boring parties again. Before his head hit the pillow Robert Helm was dreaming about the senorita with the split personality.

~~~~~

Tessa stopped to look at the portrait of her father, Don Alvarado, hanging above the fireplace as she entered. Robert is a good man. I know you would like him if you were alive to meet him.

~~~~~

"Marta, try to control your oniomania this time. Don't buy the whole market. We only need half a box of cherries." Tessa playfully pleaded as the two women stepped down from the wagon.

"Maybe, you should come with me, to keep me under control."

"I can't. I have to talk to Dr. Helm about the wedding."

As Tessa parted company with her duma, Colonel Montoya advanced toward her. "Senorita Alvarado, could I steal a moment of you valuable time to discuss a very delicate matter. Please, join me in my office."

Tessa became uneasy as Colonel Montoya closed the doors to his office behind him. "I must congratulate you on your upcoming nuptials. However, your fiancee is not Catholic. As military governor, I cannot allow your wedding to take place without a dispensation for Rome."

Tessa felt a vise tighten around her heart and her head started to spin as the news slammed home.

TBC

TRIO CHALLENGE: vellum parchment, metal pot, a ceremony + "triturate" (tri-CH-uh-rayt) verb tr. - To rub, crush, grind, or pound into fine particles or a powder; pulverize.
Disclaimers: I don't own them. If I did, they would still be working.
Spoilers: None
Feedback: Please
Rating: G
Note: This vignette picks up right after The Problem vignette. To every problem, there is a solution.

~~~~~

Colonel Montoya observed Senorita Alvarado's reaction with a growing sense of satisfaction. Finally, I have triturated that unflappable veneer and stubborn spirit. Now, I can finally control her, like I do the Dons.

"Senorita, you are not looking well. Would you like to sit down? Would you like me to send for the doctor?" As soon as he uttered the words, Colonel Montoya wanted to retract them. It was too late.

"That won't be necessary, Colonel. If you will excuse me," Tessa replied coldly. As she turned to leave, Colonel Montoya noticed a new and frightening element to the young senorita's eyes, a cold, calculating hatred aimed directly at him. He stared at the now vacant spot, where the young senorita had been, for several minutes before sitting down behind his desk. Damn, now I have two women who want to kill me.

Tessa descended the stairs from the Colonel's office as quickly as possible without attracting too much attention. She felt a cold dread nipping at her heels, threatening to stop her in her tracks, before she reached safety.

Dr. Helm was combining several ingredients for a salve in a metal pot when without warning the door to his office opened. He turned toward the door, ready to chide his visitor for not knocking, again. She looks awful. What happened to her? Not saying a word he opened his arms inviting her in. Encircled in the safety of Robert's arms, Tessa's aristocratic veneer finally cracked wide open, unleashing a tidal wave of emotions. As the storm subsided, Robert asked, "What happened?"

"Montoya won't let us marry because you are not Catholic."

"Is that so? Let me get a couple of things, then we can go see Montoya. We also need to stop by the church to see if Padre Quinterra is available."

A half hour later, Dr. Helm, Tessa, and a reluctant Padre Quinterra, waited outside Colonel Montoya's office. Grisham open the door, invited the group in, and closed the door behind him as he left to collect some taxes from some peon. Addressing the leader of the group, Montoya simple stated, "My hands are tied in this matter, Dr. Helm. Since you are not Catholic, I cannot allow you to marry Senorita Alvarado. I am sure Padre Quinterra would verify that." The padre simply nodded his agreement.

"Why do you believe me not to be a Catholic?" Doctor Helm quietly asked.

"You are English," Colonel Montoya stated simply.

"Have you ever heard of English Catholics?" Colonel Montoya didn't like the way this conversation was going.

Smiling, Dr. Helm laid an oilskin case on Montoya's desk. From inside the case, he produced four pieces of vellum parchment laying each carefully on the desk in front of the colonel. "These are my certificates of baptism, confession, holy communion, and conformation in the Diocese of Essex. I am sure Padre Quinterra can verify their authenticity."

The padre stepped forward to examine the paper. After a few minutes, he stepped back. "The documents are genuine," he simply stated.

" But you never go to Mass," stated Colonel Montoya.

"After the war, I abandoned my faith."

"That means you still cannot marry," crowed Montoya sensing victory was again within reach.

Padre Quinterra cleared his throat causing everyone in the room to turn toward him. "In such cases, the Church requires that the person confess their sins and reaffirm their belief in the Church. Then there would be no obstacle to the wedding ceremony."

"Are you free tomorrow after Mass to hear a confession?" Dr. Helm asked.

"I will see you, tomorrow, my child."

With that Dr. Helm collected his papers, took Tessa by the arm, and escorted the Padre out of Montoya's office.

TBC

TRIO CHALLENGE: cheese, skull, clock + blase
Rating: G
Feedback/Beta: Yes, please
Notes: This vignette follows immediately after the Bless Me, Father, for I Have Sinned vignette (QofS FF message # 4688). If you have not read it, you will want to read it first.

~~~~~

It took all of Tessa's aristocratic breeding not to show the shock on her face she felt in her heart. How had he figured it out? What did I do wrong? She realized she needed a plan to keep her head attached to her shoulders. As Montoya looked at his nemesis, he amazingly noticed a smile forming on her face.

Pressing her sword harder into his neck Tessa allowed anger to edge into her voice as she replied, "You think I'm that spoiled, pampered, self indulgent, brat. You are even dumber than I thought, Colonel. I should run you through for that insult alone if for nothing else." Changing to a more business like tone Tessa asked, "Now, about the new taxes you levied against the peons. Surely, we can reach some sort of compromise."

"Senorita Alvarado, as a hacienda owner you understand the need to control those underneath you. I cannot simply repeal a tax because some people feel it is unfair."

Knowing he was trying to goad her into making a mistake caused a fresh wave of rage to wash over Tessa. She reacted by pressing down a little harder with her sword on Montoya's neck resulting in a thin red line running out from under the blade and onto the clean white sheets. Seeing a worried look creep into Montoya's eyes Tessa said, "Don't worry, Colonel, I will leave the cold-blooded murder to you or Grisham. I will let you sleep on what we discussed." Moving toward the balcony Tessa wiped the blade of her sword on one of the curtains to remove the Colonel's blood. "Don't bother calling the guards. Last time I saw them. They were sleeping on the job." Of course a sword hilt to the skull always helps in that regard. With that she turned and was gone. Luis decided it was not worth chasing after her. Her neck would be in a noose and her hacienda would be his soon enough.

For her plan to work she needed to set it in motion now. The queen rode away from the pueblo, not toward the safety of the Alvarado residence, but in the opposite direction. Having left Chico a safe distance away, Tessa approached the hacienda cautiously avoiding several patrols. Scaling the wall to the second floor she slowly opened the owner's bedroom window. Easing over the window sill Tessa put both feet on the floor and promptly froze as the cold steel of a buccaneer's sword pressed against her throat. An equally icy voice ordered, "Stay where you are or you are dead."

"Mary Rose, my life is in danger."

"Considering you're the one with the sword at her throat, I think you are correct," the pirate queen replied.

I hope she does not turn me over to Montoya. Raising one hand slowly to her face Tessa pushed back her mask revealing her face while replying quietly, "No, my life as Tessa Alvarado is in danger."

"Senorita Alvarado," Mary Rose replied as she lowered her sword, "I suspected you were the Queen of Swords ever since we meet on the way to my son's trial and you said that we wouldn't see the queen because her job was done. Does Dr. Helm know?"

"Yes he does," Tessa replied warmly. Tessa's voice took on a cooler tone as she continued, "Unfortunately, tonight I found out that Montoya knows."

"Does he have proof," Mary Rose asked?

"If he did, he would have acted already. I have a plan. However, I need a swordswoman of your skill to make it work."

"It cannot be more dangerous than plying the seas as a buccaneer. Besides, if it causes Montoya a headache it is worth the danger," replied Mary Rose, a conspiratorial smile spreading across her face. Several hours later Tessa replaced her mask, slipped out the window, and mounted Chico for her ride home confident in her plan.

"Where have you been? I was worried about you." Marta asked, the concern evident in her voice.

"I'm sorry, Marta. I had to do some planning to do after my visit with Montoya tonight. He knows I'm the queen."

Marta crossed herself and her face became deadly serious, "Madra Dios, how did he find out."

"I don't know. Maybe he overheard me in the confessional. I do not think he has proof yet or he would have moved against me," Tessa stated as she finished removing the last of the queen's outfit.

Marta watched as the queen's persona receded and her Tessa, the vulnerable, sensitive, young dona, reemerged. How long can she keep this up? This is so hard on her.

"We need to go to town tomorrow to put my plan in action."

"We had better get to bed then," Marta replied in her best motherly tone.

~~~~~~~

Captain Grisham thought he heard his name being called out and a woodpecker invaded his wonderful dream. He opened his eyes to see Colonel Montoya standing at the end of his bed in the predawn greyness. "Good morning Captain, it is time to go to work."

"Can't it wait until the sun comes up," Grisham replied sleepily propping himself up on the headboard?

"Captain, today is the day we finally set the plan in motion to capture the Queen of Swords, Marie Theresa Alvarado."

Montoya's words chased the cobwebs from the captain's brain. "That spoiled brat is the Queen of Swords? Are you sure? Do you have proof?"

"Sadly, I have nothing that would hold up in court. That is why I have created a plan. Have Corporal Ramirez arrest someone for something. I really do not even care who it is. Make sure the corporal ties the criminal to a post in the middle of the square. I will be having a party tonight. When the senorita cannot make it due to a supposed illness or disappears just as the queen appears, we will have her. You will keep the Alvarado hacienda discretely under surveillance. I want you on your way in a half hour. Do you think you can do this?"

"Yes sir," Grisham replied as he began to get ready.

~~~~~~~

Several hours later, as he sat behind a rock outcropping on a hilltop overlooking the Alvarado house, he wished he had not worn his dark army uniform. Well, I know what not to wear next time the colonel sends me out on surveillance. The chimney of the large adobe building had started to smoke shortly after he arrived but nothing of importance had happened until now. Peering through his telescope Marcus saw the team horses being hitched to the wagon and led to the front of the house. The senorita and her Duma, Marta, emerged from the house and headed toward town in the wagon. He followed the progress of the wagon until it disappeared around a bend in the road. Setting down the telescope, he opened his saddle bag and removed a piece of hard cheese he procured from the mess hall and proceeded to eat the morsel.

~~~~~~

"We are being watched," Tessa calmly stated as the wagon rounded the bend.

"How do you know?" Marta asked.

"I saw light glinting off something on the hill just before the bend. When I looked again, I saw a dark area. Montoya probably sent Grisham out to look for the queen leaving the hacienda. That will change the plan, a little."

~~~~~~

As Marta stopped the wagon, Tessa took in the scene around her, the market stalls filled with produce, the residents looking for treasures, and in the middle of the square Senor Vasquez tied to a stake. So there is the bait. Shifting her gaze to Montoya's residence, she saw Montoya on the balcony. And there is the cat watching the trap.

"Tessa, let's go," Marta urged, "before everything is gone."

"Sorry, Marta," Tessa replied as the two friends happily waded into the sea of humanity. As Tessa wandered through the market, she noticed the colonel descending the stairs.

The crowd parted as he made his way toward the pretty senorita, with the hidden identity. He was pleased that he inspired enough fear to not be bothered by the masses. Before he could address her, a voice cut through his thoughts. "Senorita Alvarado, it is good to see you again."

"Yes, Senora Rose, the circumstances are much better than our last meeting."

"The two prettiest roses in Santa Helena's garden in one place, it must be my lucky day, " Montoya ejected.

"Good morning, Colonel," Tessa and Mary Rose replied, almost in unison, causing Tessa to snicker.

How can she be so childish on one hand and a cold calculating killer on the other. "You are both invited to a party at my residence tonight. Of course, Dr. Helm would be welcome as well."

Tessa rewarded Luis with a brilliant smile. "Thank you for the invitation, Colonel. Dr. Helm and I will attend." The colonel turned to Mary Rose waiting for her answer.

"Sorry Colonel, my first mate and crew are already on the Mary Rose II preparing to leave on the noon tide for two weeks. I just came into town to pick up some last minute supplies. I will be on the high seas tonight."

"I am sorry to hear that, senora. Your stories always make my parties so interesting."

"Yes they do," Tessa added, "fair winds and safe anchorages, Senora Rose."

With a curt thank you the pirate queen turned and melted into the crowd. "Maria Theresa, you appear troubled. Is there anything I can help you with?" Colonel Montoya asked.

"Not unless you can help plan a wedding. There are so many little details." Tessa sounded almost frantic, but managed to compose herself before continuing. "Of course, it is nothing like running a pueblo and deciding who lives and dies."

"That is true, senorita. At dawn, I will carry out an execution, the hardest part of my duty. Senor Vasquez will learn the consequences of breaking the law." Fixing a cold stare on Tessa, he continued, "Unless, he was to be saved by the Queen. Please excuse me Senorita. There is much planning to do."

Like what you will do when you capture me. "Of course, I need to inform the doctor about tonight's party."

~~~~~~~~

Seeing no one in Dr. Helm's office, Tessa called out, "Robert, are you here?" Hearing a reply from the back room, Tessa proceeded toward the sound. Entering the room, she continued lightly, "I hope you are free tonight. We have been invited to another of Montoya's parties."

Dr. Helm's shoulders sagged and a sigh escaped his lips as he turned to face Tessa. "Not another one, how can you be so blase about these things. I think I feel a fever coming on," he stated, a playful smile dancing over his face.

"Robert, I need you there." His fiancee's pleading tone caused him to embrace her as she related all that happened

~~~~~~~

So she really is leaving. The three masted schooner slipped out of the protected bay and picked up speed as the sails caught the wind in their grasp. Montoya, leaving nothing to chance, watched the ship shrink in size until it disappeared into the sea mist.

~~~~~~~

He could see his prey. It was right where she said it would be. It had not moved since he had started his approach fifteen minutes ago. His prey fell unconscious as Dr. Helm brought his sword hilt down on the back of Captain Grisham head.

After returning to his horse, He headed toward the beach to pick up Mary Rose. I still have what it takes. Grisham didn't even see it coming.

~~~~~~

"Were there any problems?" Tessa asked as Dr. Helm and Mary Rose entered the hacienda.

"No," Robert replied, "I wager the captain is still sleeping like a baby."

"I am sure I saw Montoya watch the Mary Rose II leave the bay," Mary Rose added.

"Good. Marta, take care of Mary Rose's hair," Tessa ordered.

"Don't worry the dye will wash out after a couple of days," Marta stated as she led Mary Rose away to the bathroom. After several hours of frantic work everything was in place. Mary Rose was inside the covered carriage, having gotten to the barn through the secret room, which Tessa thought, with mild amusement, was becoming less and less secret.

~~~~~~~~

Marta stopped the carriage in one of the canyons outside of town. She watched Mary Rose, dressed as the Queen step out. If I can hardly tell the difference, no one else will be able to. Mounting Chico, Mary Rose rode off into the gathering darkness.

~~~~~~~~

The party is proceeding exactly as planned. Senorita Alvarado would soon slip away from the party to free Senor Vasquez and then he would have her. Where was that fool Grisham? Didn't he understand how important this was? The sound of someone clearing his throat jarred Luis from his thoughts. "How nice of you to finally show up, Captain."

"Colonel, we may have a problem. Someone attacked me while I was watching the Alvarado place. I was unconscious for several hours."

"Really, Grisham, I send you to do the easiest thing and somehow you manage to mess it up. Not to worry she is in our trap and will not escape."

The sounds of a duel in the square, caused Montoya to move to the rose garden's gate. He reached the gate just in time to see the queen fell the guard with a wicked blow from her sword hilt. Cutting Senor Vasquez free she whistled for her horse. He scanned his guests looking for Senorita Alvarado and was surprised to see her sitting with Dr. Helm and her duma. Confused he turned back to see the queen toss a tarot card in the air, as she galloped away.

His grandfather clock chimed eleven o'clock, as he bid good night to the last of his guests. "Senorita Alvarado, you have again made all my roses jealous."

Blushing Tessa replied, "Thank you, Colonel. It was a most pleasant evening."

~~~~~~

As the crescent moon hung over the water, Tessa, dressed as the queen of swords, approached Mary Rose. "Thank you, I am forever in you debt."

"You're welcome. I told you your life would make an interesting read."

As the pirate queen climbed into the long boat, sent from the Mary Rose II laying just offshore, she drew her sword in a time-honored military salute.

Tessa returned the salute, "Fair winds and safe anchorages, Mary Rose."

"And to you, Queen of Swords," Mary Rose responded.

TBC

The wedding is almost here.

CHALLENGE#27 for the week of 07-22-01
Quote # 3 and rodomontade
Rating: G
Feedback/Beta: Yes, please

~~~~~

The two adversaries circled each other in the flickering candlelight.

Her rodomontade attitude will be her downfall. Sooner or later she will fall for the traps I am setting.

He thinks I will fall for those traps? Any first year student at the academy would see the deception coming. Let's see what he thinks of this.

The fury of her attack sent him reeling back across the room. Desperately trying to regain the offensive, he noticed a small smile tugging at the corner of her mouth. My God, she really enjoys this. This is a side of her I have never seen before. Finally regaining control of the situation, he launched a counterattack driving her back. The strain of the battle was showing in her face but her eyes still showed extreme confidence. Where is that dagger? Not knowing where that was cost me last time. He caught sight of the dagger, as she launched an attack on his weak side.

As she drove her opponent back, she took satisfaction in seeing a bead of sweat appear just under his brow. At least this time he is working up a sweat. He might tire me out this time. Dismissing that negative thought. She continued to press home her advantage.

Having thwarted another attack, he began his own assault. As he drove her back, his attention drifted, beyond the sword and dagger, to the person wielding them She is a remarkably beautiful woman. A sword blade at his throat reminded him that she was also deadly. Dropping his sword and sinking to his knees he simply said, "I put my life in your hand, your majesty."

Sheathing her sword Tessa replied smiling, "Dr. Helm, your lack of concentration on the things that can kill could be fatal. Be careful. The prudence of the best heads is often defeated by tenderness of the best hearts."

Marta, who had quietly watched the drama unfold before her stated, "If you two are done playing, we have important business to discuss regarding the wedding."

END

CHALLENGE #37 TRIO: a wax seal, a gold reale, milk
RATING: G

~~~~~

Tessa was too excited to sleep, so she lay on her bed starring at the ceiling. She was waiting, waiting for the first hint of the coming day. Throwing back the covers, she went back to the window to check for the light. "Finally," she whispered softly as she looked eastward between the tops of the mountains and the base of the low clouds and saw a faint grey line signaled dawn's approach. Quickly dressing in a heavy grey work shirt and black riding pants, Tessa collected her dagger from under her pillow and her boots from the end of the bed. Hoping not to wake Marta, she opened the door as quietly as possible and padded, panther-like, down the hallway in stockinged feet. 'All those years of practice in Madrid paid off,' she thought, as she reached the front door. Quietly putting on her boots, she exited the hacienda and headed toward the stables slipping her dagger into her right boot as she went. Entering the stable, Tessa heard Chico snort in recognition. "Don't get greedy. You got your exercise two nights ago, Reno needs hers today," she chided her favorite horse, giving him a sugar cube to lighten the blow. Wanting to make sure Reno was warm before reaching the beach, Tessa urged Reno into a gentle trot as they made their way down the narrow trail. Taking a deep breath, she allowed the cool morning air, cleansed by last night's rain showers, to energize her. Reno needed little urging from Tessa to break into a gallop by the time they reached the surf zone.

'She rides very much like the Queen of Swords, but I saw her and the queen separately in the same place at the same time.' Marcus replaced his telescope in his saddle bag and turned his horse back toward Santa Helena. 'Ever since Montoya had come to believe Maria Theresa was the Queen of Swords he has had me discreetly checking up on her at different times. Maybe, he could convince Montoya of the error of his ways today as this task was seriously cutting into his quality time with Vera.'

The sun broke through the low clouds just as Tessa returned to the hacienda bathing her in its warming rays. 'It matches the feeling inside me, and it's a good omen for today.' Dismounting, Tessa led Reno into the stable and began to rub down the chestnut mare. She was half way through her task when she felt Marta watching her from the doorway.

"What is it, Marta?" Tessa asked, not looking up from her task.

"Why you are doing this today?"

"I do this every day. Why should today be any different?"

"Today is your wedding day. That is why it should be different." Marta replied, the slight annoyance in her voice matching the stern look on her face. "Let Jose finish this for you. I have your breakfast ready for you."

Tessa stopped in mid-stroke and looked at Marta. "How could you have my breakfast ready?" Tessa asked. "Unless...."

"Unless I knew when you left and where you were going and when you returned," Marta finished for her.

"You are spying on me. When are you going to let me grow up?" Tessa demanded.

"I am not spying on you I am just fulfilling my pledge to your father to look after you," Marta replied. She watched in silence as the haughty, aristocratic Spanish, veneer cracked and fell to the floor like the faulty glaze on a badly fired pot.

Tessa quickly crossed the distance separating her from Marta and embraced her confidant lovingly. "Oh, Marta, I am so sorry. I sometimes forget to lower my defenses around you. Please forgive me."

"It is all right. I sometimes forget you are no longer the same helpless seven-year-old in need of protection. Now, let us go enjoy breakfast before it gets cold."

"Yes, let us enjoy our last breakfast alone together. Do we have any fresh milk?"

~~~~~

The early morning sun shining through his window woke Dr. Helm from a deep sleep. Quickly glancing at his pocket watch, he realized he was already late. As he threw back the covers, he remembered this would be the last time he would sleep in this drafty office. 'Unless, I upset Tessa and she tosses me out.' Dressing quickly he exited through the back door of the building with a bucket in his hand and a schoolboy grin on his face. Reaching the fountain, he cheerfully greeted Carlita, who had pursued him tirelessly after Montoya had introduced them at one of his parties. "Beautiful morning is it not, Senorita."

"It is for some, Doctor. I still do not understand what you see in Dona Maria Theresa Alvarado, unless you are marrying her for her money. All I can say is I could have made you so much happier." With that, she turned and left, carrying her bucket.

Setting the bucket down next to his washstand, Dr. Helm looked at his watch again and noted he had ten minutes before he met his elder brother, Edgar, for breakfast at the cantina. 'Just enough time to shave and look half way decent.' Five minutes later he stepped out the front door of his office and made his way to the square. As he crossed the square toward the cantina, he observed Captain Grisham, returning to the barracks. 'Probably checking up on Tessa again,' he thought as he sat down to enjoy breakfast with his brother and his wife, Maril.

~~~~~

Colonel Montoya watched the peaceful early morning scene unfolding in the square with a certain sense of satisfaction. The Queen had been less active recently, possibly because the person he suspected of being the Queen had a wedding to plan. Since today's gold shipment was scheduled to leave during the young Dona's wedding, he was sure it would arrive safely in Monterey. Turning from the window, he barked, "Sergeant."

"Si Colonel."

"Have, Captain Grisham, report here after he has taken care of his horse."

"Si Colonel." With a quick salute the sergeant left to find the Captain of the Guard, happy he was not the one having to face the colonel.

~~~~~

'Colonel, I have nothing new to report. The Dona has been acting quite normally. I have found no evidence to support your theory, suggesting she is the Queen of Swords.' Captain Grisham rehearsed his report as he made his way from the barracks to Montoya's office. 'Every time he sends me out it is the same thing. No one else thinks that spoiled brat is the Queen of Swords. Why does he insist on continuing to believe it?' Marcus removed his hat and check to make sure his uniform was in order as he passed a mirror on the way to his commander's office. He entered and found Colonel Montoya sorting through dispatches, meticulously breaking each red wax seal, with an annoyed look on his face. "Colonel, I have...."

"Spare me your platitudes about your incompetent surveillance and just listen," Montoya said, cooly cutting off his captain. "We will be sending out Monterey's gold shipment today."

"Yes, sir, I was planning to personally escort the shipment.

"Grisham, be quite and listen for once," Montoya stated, the temperature of his voice matching the icy glare of his of his pale green eyes.

Grisham decided it would be best to do what his commanding officer wanted in this case.

"The gold shipment will be leaving during Maria Theresa wedding. You will be escorting the Dona to her wedding in my personal carriage when it leaves so we know where she is. I will bet you a gold reale it will reach its destination since the Queen will be getting married."

"Sir, would it be better..."

"There is no debate on this. Just carry out your orders, Captain."

Sensing it was time to go, Grisham saluted smartly, turned on his heels and left the room.

TBC