Scenes 1 to 5 - Scenes
11 to 15 - Scenes 16 to 20 - Sequel homepageCharacter sketches - Ideas and suggestions - Web Mall directory
Scenes 1 to 5 - Scenes
11 to 15 - Scenes 16 to 20 - Sequel homepage
WARNING: Some scenes contain explicit sexual content and are not
appropriate for children.
WARNING: Some sections of scene 6 contain explicit sexual content and are not appropriate for children.
A lavish banquet was spread in the shaded part of the huge courtyard. The guests, after freshening up, could sample from the bounty laid out before them. Pitchers of icy cold beverages were available to quench their thirst. In one corner, the children took turns at playing piñata hoping impatiently for the toy to burst open with their little prizes.
As the day wore on, the courtyard became more and more crowded. The musicians gathered on the makeshift stage and began to play, filling the air with music. The guests were there for many reasons. Some came to make new business contacts; others to take advantage of Alejandro's and Elena's generosity; a few, it seemed, came to pry their noses into everything. Then there were those like the young Miranda Arletta, who came to chase after dreams.
Miranda Arletta followed her aunt Rosalie through the crowd, eyes downcast, careful to remain the customary 3 or 4 paces behind, obediently carrying the loaded plate of food to be consumed by her aunt. Around her the guests of the Don Alejandro and Dona Elena laughed and joked and danced. The fiesta was in full swing. As her aunt strutted ahead, Miranda blushed with embarrassment for the comical figure she presented.
Tonight, ever chasing youth, her aunt wore an overly frilled dress -- in requisite black, of course -- that only served to emphasize fleshy shoulders and heavy arms. The expanse of mottled skin was carefully powdered and scented. Her gray-streaked hair was piled alarmingly high whilst childish ringlets bobbed about her ears. Ostrich feathers, dyed black, sprang from the stiff curls and swayed at alarming angles from her head. Poor Dona Carlotta, who had the misfortune to be seated on Aunt Rosalie's left, had been swiped many times by one particularly large feather.
As she stumbled behind her aunt, carrying the plate of food before her, Miranda was unaware of the appreciative eyes of several young men who watched her progress. She was a girl of nineteen years. Her parents had died that desperate winter, five years ago, struck down by pneumonia. Alone in the world she had been taken in by her Aunt Rosalie, a widow who had once been married to her mother's brother.
Dona Rosalie Martinez was a rich woman, but was quite loath to share her wealth with anyone, let alone a niece. Miranda had quickly been placed in the role of poor relative, acting as companion/servant to her aunt, meekly trailing in her wake like an awkward child. Told so often that she lacked poise and breeding, Miranda believed it to be true. Nonetheless, tonight of all nights she hoped she looked passably good.
They made their way through the crowd and finally joined the other widows from the district who had gathered together at a corner table so that they might watch the festivities and gossip freely. As she took her seat next to her aunt, she glanced down at the lavender satin and velvet dress she wore and smiled secretly to herself. Her aunt had paid for this dress without knowing it. She might be miserly but she was also extremely imprudent in matters of money. It was a dress cut in the most fashionable style, interwoven across the revealing bodice were velvet ribbons and small delicate satin flowers of a violet hue which exactly matched Miranda's eyes. The dress was cut daringly low displaying milk-white skin, fine breasts and a narrow waist. In it she felt wonderfully exotic. Maybe HE would notice her tonight. She had spent the past week in a lather of thrilled expectation, and now finally the time for the fiesta had come.
Once again her eyes anxiously searched the room for him. He was invariably easy to locate. She watched as he threw back his head and laughed. He laughed often it seemed. Those around him, enchanted as always by his presence, moved closer to hear his words, share his aura, his charisma. He was the catalyst around which all gravitated within any group. As she looked at him now she saw he held a glass of wine in one hand whilst the other encircled the waist of his wife, Elena. Miranda's eyes focused on him as he placed the wine down to take a cigar that was offered and to light it. As he stopped to do this, the fascinated group of onlookers paused, also waiting, eager for him to begin again his animated discourse.
Miranda had seen him many times during her visits to the local market to purchase supplies for her aunt. Unlike the other Dons who sent servants, he would visit the market himself. He loved to walk with his wife and children amid the vendors, carrying his son on his shoulder, shouting greetings to merchants and sometimes kicking a ball with carefree children. The first time she saw him she could not believe a man could be so magnificent.
All at once she sucked in her breath. Don Alejandro was striding across the crowded courtyard toward her table. He would have passed by had not her aunt grasped his sleeve and pulled him back. "Why Don Alejandro, how glorious of you to invite so many to your excellent fiesta," she fluttered, "and it is wonderful of you to remember those who have lost their beloved spouses. There are so many of us these days with wars and disease taking their toll."
He stopped and looked down at her aunt with a warm smile. "Are you enjoying yourselves, ladies?" he asked pleasantly.
"Everything is perfect. You must give my compliments to Dona Elena. Let me present my acquaintances." She began to introduce the other matriarchs at the table. Miranda, feeling sick with nerves, a hot flush scalding her cheeks, looked down at his boots, not daring to raise her eyes.
"And who is this?" he questioned because her aunt had introduced everyone at the table except her.
Dona Rosalie dismissed Miranda with a brush of her hand, reinforcing her lack of importance in the group. " Why this is my niece, Miranda Arletta, Don Alejandro, sadly made an orphan five years ago. I have taken responsibility for the child out of the kindness of my foolish heart. I do enjoy a youthful presence in my home. Stand up, girl, and be presented," she instructed with irritation.
"Why, pequena, you haven't danced yet? Eusebio!" Alejandro called, "Over here." He motioned for his amigo to join him. "Don Eusebio, may I present Senorita Miranda Arletta. She is dying to dance."
Eusebio flashed his ready smile at Miranda. "I would hate to see such beauty die. Come, Senorita. Let us show the others how it is done!" Miranda nodded awestruck. The most sophisticated one of all the Dons was leading her out to dance! Though he wasn't the man of her dreams, he was handsome and charming and she was in his arms.
As Alejandro was attempting to move on to greet other guests he was intercepted by Dona Carmen, who was sitting with the other widows. "Don Alejandro. May I count on a dance from you this night?" she asked him coyly.
"Yes, Dona Carmen, I shall have the honor of dancing with all the beautiful women at this table before the night is through," was his charming response.
"Oh, Don Alejandro, you are so very kind to those of us who no longer have husbands to dance with," purred Dona Carmen. "May I count on the next dance?" she questioned.
Thinking it a good idea to get that particular commitment out of the way, Alejandro readily agreed. "Si, si, Dona Carmen. The next dance is yours."
Alejandro moved his attention to other guests doing what he did best -- charming each one and helping them to feel important. He heard the beginning strains to familiar music and instantly his thoughts turned to Elena. It was the music of the scandalous Fandango to which they had danced to just a few short years ago. It was their special dance and he wanted her in his arms at that very moment. He scanned the courtyard and found her.
She, too, had heard the music and was looking right at him! A thrill ran up his spine as all thoughts were pushed aside and he began making his way across the crowded courtyard towards her. Suddenly he felt a tug at his sleeve and a voice, which seemed louder than was necessary, spoke his name, "Don Alejandro! Did you not promise this dance to me? I am ready if you are!"
Alejandro gazed at the woman who was speaking to him. Slowly his wits came back to him and he recognized her: Dona Carmen. Yes, he had promised her the NEXT dance. He looked up to see Elena watching him, waiting for him to come to her. He returned his attention to Dona Carmen. "Oh, I am sorry Dona Carmen, I promise I will dance the next one after with you. It is my wish to dance with my wife now."
Dona Carmen bristled at these words. "Why Don Alejandro, you and your wife have a lifetime to dance together. Is your word to be taken lightly?" Dona Carmen raised her eyebrow expectantly.
Alejandro looked around at the small crowd looking on. With a sigh he realized he could not afford to begin offending guests. He looked at Elena one more time hoping that this was one of those moments when she could read his thoughts, as she was still too far away to hear the conversation. He shrugged his shoulders indicating to her the hopelessness of the situation. He extended his arm to Dona Carmen and led her out to the dance floor. Although she tried to snuggle into him--he did his best to keep her at a proper distance. At least for a while.
Elena frowned in resentment. That Dona Carmen! Elena had so looked forward to enjoying the Fandango with Alejandro -- after all it was THEIR dance. Now Dona Carmen had ruined it for them. Oh well, she thought, there will be other dances. "I think I had better get away from this crowd and catch my breath before I let my emotions carry me away," Elena said to herself.
Strolling over to the well in the back of the house, she fanned herself with the delicate lace fan Alejandro had purchased for her the last time he had gone into town; he was always buying her thoughtful little presents. Suddenly a coarse voice cut through her dreams.
"What's a purty gal like you doing all by yerself?"
The peddler! He must have followed her from the house.
"That husband of yers, he don't know how to treat a lady like you proper. Look at him, tomcatting after that widow woman, Dona Carmen."
"Sir, you insult me and my husband with your insinuations," Elena stated.
He leered lustfully at her. "Lady, I only know what I seen. He's doing that fandanging with her and he shore looks like he's enjoying hisself too dang much. So that's why I gotta say, it ain't proper. Go see fer yerself."
Elena turned on her heel. "I don't believe him," she said to herself . All the same she returned to the fiesta, just in time to see Dona Carmen twirl away from Alejandro and whirl back into his arms. She turned so forcibly that he had to grab her to prevent her from falling. She reached up and dragged his face to hers, trying to compel him to kiss her.
Alejandro was stunned by this woman's boldness! "I should let her fall, he thought to himself."
To Elena, it appeared the embrace was real. The peddler was right! She ran into the hacienda, up the stairs to their room and slammed and locked the door behind her!
If only she had waited a moment more she would have had the pleasure of seeing Alejandro drop Dona Carmen on the floor. He feigned a most sincere apology and offered his gentlemanly hand to help her up. Although Alejandro had recovered from his impulsiveness, it was obvious to all who witnessed the scene what had truly gone on. Most did not blame him, and they could already hear the whispers beginning, "Serves her right! She is just shameless, throwing herself at a married man like that!"
Having caught a glimpse of Elena running to the hacienda Alejandro guessed what was going on in her mind. He rushed out after her, leaving Dona Carmen to gather up the shreds of her dignity.
A shocked and embarrassed Dona Carmen looked after Don Alejandro as he went after his wife. Amid giggles and whispers and a few loud guffaws, she picked herself up and straightened up to reach her full height. With head held high (a little too high--she looked like she was sniffing the air in order to detect the source of some foul odor) she strode away from the crowd and toward the stable. A shadowy figure rushed behind her.
As she entered the stable she let out an odd sound that was something like a cross between a sob and an angry growl. She leaned against the wall and looking at the ceiling she let out her embarrassment and aggravation with a deep sigh. A sudden scuffling startled her, but she relaxed as the shadowy figure stepped into the light. She opened her arms in greeting and the man accepted and returned her affectionate embrace.
"I saw what happened," he said, trying unsuccessfully to suppress a chuckle.
She pushed him away and spat at him, "Oh yes, very funny! Alejandro is going to pay dearly for that little bit of drama!"
The man reached for her again and said gently, "Oh Carmen, forgive me. You don't deserve such treatment! After all you are truly of noble lineage. I am sorry I found amusement in your embarrassment. Forgive me?"
"Yes, of course I do. Had it happened to anyone else, I too, would have found it amusing," she responded with a wry little grin. "So step back and let me get a better look at you." Her eyes moved approvingly up and down his body. There on his head sat a battered old hat, which had lost its original shape long ago. He was wearing a tattered coat, really too heavy for this delightfully warm weather, but sufficiently shabby to fit the desired image.
Now it was Dona Carmen's turn to chuckle, "Oh Jonathan, the shabby look suits you, I believe." Her chuckle grew until she was laughing with amusement.
Jonathan hushed her with these whispered words, "Carmen, my love, you must remember that while I'm dressed like this my name is Pete. Captain Jonathan Halligan will make his appearance soon enough, but for now I am just "Pete the Peddler."
With that "Pete" turned his attention to the stalls, quickly appraising the animals to be found there. "So did you find the horse?" he questioned, not seeing one which fit the description.
"Yes," Dona Carmen answered, "he is right over here. I am certain it is...." She stopped in mid-sentence because the stall she had led Pete to was empty! "Hmmm, now why would that horse be gone? No one has ridden out of here all day. Well, now I am certain it is the one! Why else would it be missing now?"
Pete nodded in agreement, seeing her point. "Yes," he said, "I'm beginning to believe the stories of that old drunken peasant, José, now. Things are starting to add up, all right."
"Yes, but we must be sure. After what Alejandro -- or whatever his name is -- did to me tonight it is clear that he would not hesitate to make us look like fools if we cannot expose him completely and convincingly! He is nothing, if not clever and charming! Why I would be laughed out of proper society, not to mention lose every chance I ever had of increasing my wealth if we move too quickly in this matter."
"Yes, of course, you are right Carmen," replied the peddler. "We must be absolutely certain."
"Elena, querida, let me in." Alejandro pounded on the door.
"Go away," she shouted. "I hate you!"
"Open the door, mi esposa," Alejandro demanded.
"Never!" Suddenly, the door burst open and Alejandro stalked in.
"Go back to your puta," Elena spat.
"What the hell are you talking about?"
"Dona Carmen! You've shamed me in front of everyone! Embracing her, kissing her. The peddler was right! You do not know how to behave properly."
"Not proper?" Alejandro said. "I'll show you what is 'not proper'." With a sly smile and a mischievous growl, he pounced on her. Gone was the fine Don and in his place was a mountain cat. He pulled the short puffed sleeves of her gown down her arms along with her camisole and her lush breasts burst forth. He gazed for a moment at the pink and white confection, then bent his head to taste the succulent treats. He thrust up her skirts to explore her hidden delights, stripping her of her pantaloons. Impatiently, he removed the rest of her clothing and she lay naked before him. "Muy hermosa, querida," he breathed.
He slid lower down her body, kissing her softly rounded belly. Drifting downward, he pressed a kiss against the soft curls between her legs. His touch gentled as he spread her thighs and bent to sip deeper of her sweet nectar.
"Take off your clothes, querido," Elena begged. "I wish to see you." She gazed eagerly as Alejandro disrobed. He was built like a god, his body lean and graceful, his manhood aroused. She scooted back against the carved headboard, not knowing exactly what to expect.
"Oh, mi alma," he whispered. "Let me love you." He straddled her body and entered her with a swift sure thrust. Slowly, he began to rock against her, then faster and faster as their passion mounted. Her fingernails lightly scored his back and he grinned down at her. "Little she cat," he whispered in her ear. Legs tightened around his lean flanks as he drove deeper and deeper into her welcoming warmth. Her breath came in short, harsh pants. He rained kisses everywhere, till he returned to the carnal lushness of her mouth. His tongue dipped between her lips, and his teeth lightly nipped them. His hands fondled her breasts as his fingers played with her pert nipples.
"Harder," Elena commanded.
"As you wish, mi corazon," Alejandro said. He moved deeper and harder until finally they reached ultimate joy.
"Now, Elena, no more talk of 'proper, not proper'. You are my soul, mi alma, you know I would never betray you."
"Si, my husband," she said contritely. "I know. It was just my disappointment that I could not dance with you."
"Was this not a better dance?" he teased.
"Si," she smiled. "The best dance."
With Alejandro as her lady's maid, she put on a fresh dress. They returned to the fiesta, glowing with satisfaction. The musicians were taking a break and, inspired, Alejandro took up an abandoned guitar and called for silence.
"I wish to dedicate a song to mi esposa, mi vida. Please grant me your indulgence." The courtyard quieted as he began to sing. He burnt the hearts of every female to a cinder as he torched the tragic love song. Every word was caressed. Every note was kissed -- hot, deep and open mouthed. His baritone was like aged sherry and just as potent:
"Te amo, mi alma, ahora y siempre.
Auntie separado en esta vida,
A los muertes, seremos libre
Reuniros. Mi corazon, recuerda."
I love you, my soul, now and always.
Though separate in this life,
At death, we will be free
To reunite. My heart, remember."
The appreciative silence that greeted the last strains of the guitar was broken by the cry of "Fire!"
A boy of about twelve ran into the crowd, gasping for breath. "There is a fire at Dona Carmen's Hacienda!" he yelled between breaths.
At the word "fire!" pandemonium immediately broke out.
Dona Carmen screamed, "My home! You must do something!". She looked around at the dons, but it immediately became clear that they were not willing or able to deal with a such crisis. Seeing this, Don Alejandro ran into the stable to get his horse, then realized that Tornado had been hidden, he would have to ride someone else's horse.
Men were arriving from all over to help with the fire, with Alejandro and the #$!@ horse he had borrowed following the pack. The more he spurred the horse on, the slower it seemed to want to go. Finally he caught up with the rest of the men.
The barn where the crops were kept was ablaze. Alejandro urged the horse forward towards the well to start a fire brigade, but just as they got to the well the horse panicked at the fire, reared up violently -- and threw Alejandro into the well! He landed in the water with a loud curse and then grabbed for the bucket and shouted for someone to pull him up. The rope was immediately raised, and Alejandro reached the top to find Pete at the other end.
The two men looked at each other for a moment, Alejandro with some degree of embarrassment, and then Pete said, "Really, you should leave this to the men -- this is hardly the work of a gentleman."
Alejandro, struggling to maintain his temper at the thought that this peddler should think him incapable of manual labor, turned his back on Pete and ran to restrain the horse who was now out of control and endangering the men. He grabbed the horse's reigns and tried to pull his head down to whisper reassuringly to him when his foot became tangled in the reigns and the next thing he knew he was flat on his back being dragged by the hysterical horse! He struggled to release himself from the reigns until the horse hesitated for a moment and he was able to jump free. Pete, still standing by the well, simply shook his head in disbelief, sure now that Dona Carmen must be wrong about this don and wondering why she was so obviously attracted to such a buffoon.
The horse had dragged him to the back of the barn, just in time to see three men running away. Alejandro knew that he had never seen these men before and immediately gave chase. The men, seeing him coming, stopped short and drew their swords. Alejandro drew his as well, and sprang into action as one of the men leapt towards him. The ring of their swords was almost lost to the night, with the fire raging and the fire brigade yelling.
Alejandro met each man's parry, gracefully deflecting their swords. He grabbed a tree branch, swung himself up, and knocked one of the men out as he jumped down. As another man came up behind him he twirled, catching the man by surprise and he was impaled on the sword. The third man ran at him in a fury, and Alejandro stepped aside, pulled out his dagger and grabbed the man, placing the blade at his throat. He demanded, "Did you set this fire?! Tell me why!".
The man hesitated, then spat out, "Because I was paid to -- and it's about time us Americans got what we deserve!"
Alejandro growled, "I should give you what you deserve for this destruction," and then saw, out of the corner of his eye, the man who had been unconscious leaping for him. He turned, holding the American in front of him and the sword of the other man sliced through the American. Before the other man could comprehend his mistake and take action, Alejandro ran him through.
The fire had not been a big one, and by the time Alejandro came back it had been put out. He found the horse he had ridden, and jumped on, yelling "Go!" to which the horse remained stock still. Throwing up his hands in despair, Alejandro climbed off the horse and walked the five miles back to his home, sharing his opinions of this horse to nobody in particular as it followed him back.
When he arrived home it was nearly dawn and the courtyard was empty. He quietly entered the house and climbed the stairs to his bed chamber. When Elena saw him, she commented on his bedraggled appearance. In reply, he lay down on the bed and said, "Remind me never to curse at Tornado again," and then promptly fell asleep.
Tiger had watched as Alejandro hurriedly followed after the men and Dona Carmen as they raced to her estate. He had argued with Alejandro, protesting that he should go with him. Alejandro had insisted that he stay and watch over his family and the others. Besides, the fire would just bring back a re-living of the horrors he had witnessed as a child. Why did Alejandro always have to be right?
Closing his eyes, he suddenly had a vision of Alejandro, sprawled lifeless, those beautiful, kind eyes staring, unseeing into his face. That magical essence of life gone, the puppet dead: it's strings severed forever.
Shaking himself and taking a deep breath, Tiger walked with his sure step through the gate towards the sounds of the fiesta. Many of Alejandro's men had gone with him, although there were still the sentries around the perimeter of the main house and gardens.
The night air was cool and sweet from the flowers in Elena's garden. There was a full moon overhead, dimmed by the nearby lights, but coldly beautiful. He much preferred it to the burning sun. Reluctantly, he entered through one of the many archways the bright, hot and noisy world of the fiesta.
The remaining dons were gathered together in the courtyard, smoking cigars and drinking brandy. Elena was speaking with Mariana, separate from the other women, who were laughing delightedly at Don Eusebio, as he was serenading them with the most popular love song of the moment. Glancing at the women in the group, Tiger noted a wildly waving fan, a flushed face and the glance of death itself coming from Dona Julieta. Perhaps this was an added bonus for Don Eusebio.
As Tiger made his way towards Elena, he noted Mariana's glance in his direction and her suddenly reddening cheeks. She hurriedly returned her attention to Elena as Tiger neared. Waiting patiently while Elena finished giving the girl her instructions, he suddenly heard shouts coming from immediately outside the courtyard walls.
Strange men started to pour into the courtyard, swords drawn. There were three banquet tables placed lengthwise between him and the first wave of attackers. No time to make his way around them, he leapt to the top of the nearest table, drawing his sword. The feel of it in his hand calmed him; the dance had begun.
He had leapt to the third and last table when he reached his first man. Slicing across the man's mid-section, he didn't pause to see the man drop his sword and fall, mewling, to his knees, clutching desperately at the gray ropes of his intestines. He opened the next man's face with another slice. He was moving very fast, striking quickly and moving on.
The dons were fighting as well and some of Alejandro's as well as the other dons' men began to join in the fight. Clearing the space around him, Tiger became aware of a group of women clustered against the far courtyard wall, Elena among them. Don Eusebio was standing in front of them grasping his guitar by its neck and brandishing it like a weapon at the three swordsmen who were advancing on the group. Don Eusebio had not been wearing a sword.
Elena had pushed Mariana and the young girl Miranda behind her. Tiger could see by her eyes that she desperately wanted a sword at that moment. As he neared the attackers, the swordsman nearest him heard his approach just in time to turn slightly and meet the edge of Tiger's long dagger as it sliced across the side of his neck. The other two were good. He parried their first thrusts and watched in amazement as one of the men staggered to his knees, revealing Don Eusebio standing behind him, shattered guitar clutched in his hands. Tiger took advantage of the moment and thrust his sword into the heart of his startled opponent. Using the pommel of his dagger, he knocked the kneeling man unconscious. He was delayed a few seconds as he placed his booted foot on the body of the man he had impaled and yanked to free his sword.
Turning to the fight once again, he noted it was over. The attackers had been fewer in number than he had at first feared. Going to one of Alejandro's men, he gave instructions to tie up and confine any wounded attackers for questioning later. Out of the corner of his eye he saw Elena flying up the stairs towards the family chambers, Mariana closely behind. The children!
Racing after them, blades still drawn, Tiger entered the nursery to find Elena on her knees, clutching little Joaquin to her; his eyes so huge they completely swallowed his face. Releasing him, she gathered Esperanza from Morning Dove's protective arms and sobbed as she kissed the crying baby's face. Joaquin clutched her dress in both his chubby hands and looked up in puzzlement at his sobbing mother. Mariana and Morning Dove collapsed in each other's arms. Glancing up, Elena saw Tiger standing in the doorway. Her lovely eyes swimming in tears and a look of determination on her face, she said in a steely voice, "Find out who has done this, Tiger. I'll be down shortly to see to the others." Tiger bowed his head in acknowledgment and left the room.
The courtyard was a mess, the sharp tang of blood was in the air, mixing with the scattered food and spilt wine, but the men had already removed most of the bodies and the servants had begun to attend to the wounded. Tiger cleaned his dagger on the shirt of one of the remaining bodies of the attackers and noted the man's face. He recognized it. Returning the dagger to its sheath he went through an archway to an open area and whirled his sword, flinging the last of the blood from its smooth surface.
Turning at the approach of footsteps on the gravel pathway, he smiled grimly as he recognized Don Eusebio. He admired the man for his stand against the swordsmen, armed only with a guitar. Foolish, but brave.
The don noted the young man's nod and barely discernible bow of greeting. He was an arrogant one, this Tiger. Alejandro seemed to be able to control him easily. It certainly improved his standing with the other dons, to be able to command someone like this, with a snap of his fingers. Alejandro was certainly more than he appeared to be.
Smiling broadly and he hoped reassuringly, he felt as if he were approaching a wild animal, one with very sharp teeth, he said, "You certainly live up to your reputation as a swordsman. That was a remarkable display."
Shrugging, Tiger simply stated, "Most of them weren't that good. They were mercenaries. I recognized one of them."
"Indeed."
"He worked for Don Miguel."
Don Eusebio's eyes narrowed at this news. Don Miguel was known to deal much with the Americans. An American sea captain in particular. Don Miguel gambled a great deal, and lost. He had noted Don Miguel during the fight and he had seemed to acquit himself well. These mercenaries could be hired by anyone.
Tiger suddenly grinned and said, "I,m sorry about your guitar; you have quite a nice voice." His grin broadened, "Have you heard the latest lyrics to, 'The Farmer's Wife and the Peddler?'"
Nearly choking at this unexpected question, Don Eusebio managed to say that he had, indeed, heard the latest addition to this very lewd and obscenely funny song, which already had over 20 verses.
"Good, because I will need you to accompany me on your new guitar when I teach them to Don Alejandro. He will need some cheering up later, when he returns from fighting fires and sees what has happened here."
Laughing out loud, Don Eusebio replied, "I would be pleased to accompany you, my dear boy. If our Don Alejandro manages to survive both the fire and Dona Carmen, he will be in need of not only song but cerveza, as well."
Dona Carmen's Fantasy
As Dona Carmen rode through the night toward her hacienda, she was not concerned with what she would find there. She was only too well aware of the staged event and the other planned happenings of the evening, thanks to Captain Jonathan in his disguise as 'Pete the peddler'. Pete would ensure the easy access to Alejandro's hacienda and he had promised to remove the insufferable Elena from her life, once and for all. If things went as planned tonight, she would be one step closer to her dream. She was so close to her goal; she succumbed to the pleasure of her fantasy.
In her dream, she stood with the children, now hers, as Alejandro approached. Her eyes lingering on his body and its easy grace. The thought of those much beloved hands touching her body, scalding it where it touched bare flesh. Those incredible eyes, filled with love and longing......for her! Touching his face gently, she marveled at the beauty of the face before her, tracing the eyebrow and around as her finger swept across the cheek, brushing against the long lashes, down to the mouth; it's fullness inviting and so easy to smile or to demand a passionate response. A mouth which should be crushed with kisses.... Dona Carmen was suddenly brought to reality as her horse stumbled, nearly tossing her from her saddle. Regaining her seat, she grasped the reins tighter and glanced behind her, reassured at the familiar form riding there.
Dona Elena's Fear
Bone weary, Elena supervised the servants as the last of the wounded men was put to bed. Tiger had seen to the securing of the two wounded attackers and the disposal of the bodies. They had lost a man; one of the guards at the outside gate. The dons themselves had not suffered any serious damage, but had lost some of their men as well.
Tiger was questioning the two prisoners now. Elena shuddered. She hated to think of what he was doing, but knew it had to be done.
Pacing the floor, Elena's fear for her husband increased as the night wore on. Her only solace had been the sleeping faces of her children.
She was filled with relief when he finally arrived. Startled at his appearance, she couldn't help but comment as he fell exhausted to bed. Bending down, she pulled a coverlet over his body and murmured, "Time enough tomorrow, my love, to tell each other our tales of woe."
Alejandro awoke early the next day, despite his adventures. Elena told him of the night's events as he soaked in the bath. She felt his body tighten and he grasped her hand as she soaped his chest. His eyes intent upon hers, he declared, "I will never leave you and the children to face such things again!"
Kissing his stubled cheek softly, she smelled the clean scent of him as she murmured, "Zorro can be anywhere, but he can't be everywhere. You would have been proud of Tiger." Her voice filling with laughter, she continued, "Even Don Eusebio was a brave lion!"
Pulling her closer, he was filled with a sudden desire for her, the reassurance that all was as it should be, that life continued. Grasping her by the waist, he pulled her gently but firmly, she protesting loudly at first and then not at all, into the warm water with him. His lips moving softly against the side of her neck, he spoke against her skin, "Did I thank you for letting me sleep so soundly last night? I will."
Fencing Practice
As Mariana passed by the closed bedroom door she smiled upon hearing the noises of laughter and splashing water coming from inside. She hurried to help the other servants as they cared for the many guests. Even Dona Carmen had returned and she was in a towering rage. It seemed she could not long be parted from Don Alejandro, though some of her own hacienda lay in smoking ruins.
Glancing into the courtyard, she paused once again as the sight of Tiger warming up for his sword practice greeted her. Wearing only his tan chaps, laced up the sides, she could see the tiny white scars scattered over his muscular chest and arms. There was a particularly nasty one that ran across his left side. Her fingers ached to touch it. The early morning sun shone on his shiny black hair, which he had in its usual pony tail. Sighing, she reluctantly continued on her way to the kitchen.
Tiger frowned in concentration as he stretched to lengthen too tight muscles. He had been grimly prepared to question the men they had held captive in one of the storage buildings. He did not enjoy that sort of thing, but had done it before and was prepared to do it again, but the men were dead when he arrived. He was told they had been killed while trying to escape. Obviously, they had been silenced.
Alejandro skipped down the stairs humming to himself as he entered the courtyard a short while later. He was greeted by the sound of music and unexpected laughter. Tiger was there as he expected, but so was Don Eusebio and he had a guitar, which he was playing. Tiger was singing along, in a surprisingly good voice, and then they both broke out laughing. He had no idea Tiger could sing so well, or that Eusebio was interested in fencing.
Tiger looked up to see Alejandro approaching, a beautiful smile on his face. He didn't want to change that mood; so he asked Alejandro if he could make his report after they finished their practice. Alejandro agreed readily, knowing he had a grueling day ahead of him and seeing that underneath the laughter, Tiger was extremely tight and on edge. They both needed this practice.
Removing his shirt in the morning sun, Alejandro stood comfortably in his black pants, his sword glinting and his eyes alight as he watched Tiger for his first move. The music of the swords began as the two men began the slow dance, building in intensity, each movement graceful and precise. Alejandro darkly beautiful as a panther, muscles moving smooth as velvet, warily watching the scarred young tiger. When it was over, their muscles had loosened in the heat. Relaxed, they slumped onto the bench together, their breathing slowing. Alejandro ran his hand through his damp curls and smiled at Tiger, who was pulling at his loosened hair.
"Stop it. I don't want to have you go bald. Mariana wouldn't like it."
Startled in mid-pull, Tiger looked up. "Mariana's an intelligent girl; she could do far better than me."
Alejandro's smile grew broader and that irresistibly mischievous look came into his eyes. "I don't believe Mariana would agree with that assessment."
Don Eusebio, who had not gone far, drew nearer. "I would have to agree with Alejandro, Tiger. Half of the women may be terrified of you but the other half are terrified they won't get you into bed."
Making a rude sound, Tiger shook his head, then asked in puzzlement, "Terrified of me?"
Alejandro broke out laughing at the look on Tiger's face. He asked suddenly, "What was that song you and Eusebio were singing earlier?"
Glancing conspiratorially at Eusebio, Tiger proceeded to sing a few verses of 'The Farmer's Wife and the Peddler'. Before he was finished with the third verse, Alejandro was reduced to tears and convulsed with laughter. Catching his breath, he pleaded for Tiger to stop.
"For the love of God, Tiger, don't let the children overhear you! If they start repeating any of this, Elena will have my hide!"
Alejandro's face quickly became sober as Tiger stopped the lewd song but began to recount the nights events. He voiced his concerns that the man killed at the outside gate had been done by someone at the fiesta. He also noted the connection of Don Miguel and the mercenary, but Alejandro was reticent to convict someone on such slim evidence. Alejandro agreed that the men they had captured were probably silenced to protect whoever was behind all this.
Looking at Don Eusebio, Alejandro extended his hand and then clasped the man to him, briefly hugging him tightly in gratitude. "Elena told me of your defense of her and the other women last night. I cannot express to you how deeply grateful I am."
Don Eusebio, uncharacteristically at a loss for words for a moment, murmured that it was Tiger who had been the true hero of the evening and he regretted that Dona Elena did not have a sword in hand, for she could then have defended his poor self. Grinning, he added, "Indeed, my dear wife, Dona Julieta, has informed me on more than one occasion that my music is deadly."
Alejandro laughed warmly, feeling that he could trust these two men at his side. A frown forming on his brow, he knew he would have to discover as much as possible about his other "friends" today; the last day of the fiesta.
The Horse Race
A horse race was planned later in the morning, before the heat of the day fully took effect. After that, the guests would begin the long process of loading carriages and saying farewells.
The little Joaquin broke into delighted laughter as he was placed in front of Alejandro, astride his horse. Still wearing the black pants from his fencing practice, Alejandro had put on a loose white shirt to take part in the race. His curls blew lightly in the morning breeze as he steadied his gelding. He looked down at Elena's smiling face. They were both oblivious of Dona Carmen's stare. The minute Elena left with Joaquin, she approached Alejandro. Grasping his stirrup, she looked up at him, her long white throat exposed, her full lips slightly parted. He could smell the heavy scent she preferred. "I haven't thanked you properly for coming to my aid last night, Alejandro."
"There is no need for thanks between friends, Dona Carmen." Easing his foot from her grasp, Alejandro inched his horse forward. Nodding his head he said, "Wish me luck."
Dona Carmen's eyes glittered as she murmured, "May you ride to victory, Alejandro." And, softer still, "and into my arms."
Before Alejandro took his place at the starting point he was delayed once again. It was the young girl, Miranda. Smiling down at her upturned face he gently took the flower from her outstretched fingers as she wished him luck. Nodding his head in thanks, he absently placed the flower in his belt and took his place.
Tiger sat quietly nearby, astride his mare, watching the guests milling about. Mariana approached determinedly, carrying a bright green ribbon. Shocking even herself, she reached up and tied it to his saddle. Looking up she thought it matched his eyes, perfectly. "For luck," she murmured and ran off.
Tiger stared, a frown on his face, at the slender back as she disappeared into the crowd. Feeling a tug on his boot heel he looked down into Don Eusebio's wryly grinning face. "Be careful, dear boy, this may not be the only race you will run."
As it turned out, neither Alejandro or Tiger won the race that day, but Alejandro received his reward, nonetheless, that evening.
Alejandro gazed out the open window of his bedroom at the setting sun as he shrugged his coat off his shoulders and casually tossed it to a chair. He bent and pulled off his black leather boots letting them drop to the floor. Bracing his palms against the frame he leaned forward slightly absorbing the dying rays and feeling the warm breeze ruffle his hair. The house was quiet, the last guests having departed a few hours ago. No doubt the servants were busy below cleaning and straightening but their clatter did not reach the large suite on the second floor. The strain he felt after days of pretending to be the arrogant Don Alejandro slipped away with his clothing and he felt the muscles in his neck and back gradually relax.
His mind was racked with confusion, though. The events of the last few days had been extremely odd to say the least -- the fire at Carmen's, the behavior of the strange peddler, the attack on his hacienda, Don Miguel's possible involvement -- was there a connection somehow or were these incidents completely coincidental? Not willing to take further chances with the safety of his family he had removed his favorite sword from hiding and placed it on the table beside the window easily within reach. Tomorrow Tornado would be back in his stall.
A soft shuffling stirred the air behind him and in one graceful swoop Alejandro grabbed his sword and whirled around, knees flexed, muscles tensed ready to face any foe.
Elena detached herself from the shadows, moving slowly so that the amber light revealed her body in inches. She was clad in a white corset and ice blue dressing gown similar to the one that she had been wearing when she had first confronted Zorro in the stable. The symbolism was not lost on Alejandro. His arms dropped to his sides, the tip of the sword in his hand touched the floor. He was aware only of the lush form slowly emerging before him and his own blood which was pounding in his ears and rushing quickly to his lower body. He felt himself harden but remained perfectly still letting Elena set the pace.
She stood squarely in front of him now, about six feet away, close enough for him to see the pulse at her throat but too far to touch.
"Give it back," demanded Elena softly, her head cocked, her eyes locked with his.
"What?"
"What you have stolen from me. I want it back. Give it to me now."
A trace of a smile touched Alejandro's lips. "No"
Elena slowly moved forward, her eyes still locked with her husband's, her hips swaying provocatively and her long heavy black hair swept over one shoulder. The light played with her body, revealing then concealing hills and valleys as she approached. She stopped in front of Alejandro, so close that her breasts brushed his chest. Neither of them breathed. The house was deadly quiet except for the combined drumming of their hearts.
Alejandro's voice was low and hoarse. "And what have I stolen from you, mi amor?"
Elena shrugged her shoulders, letting the robe fall in a puddle at her feet. Her eyes never left his as she took his left hand in hers and raised it to her breast. "My heart, mi marido. You have stolen my heart."
Alejandro's fingers gently caressed the tender flesh reaching deeper to cup the fullness in his palm and stroke the hardened nipple with his thumb. "That is something that I will never return. It will be mine 'til the day I die." His hand moved to her shoulder and slid the garment down until her breast was fully uncovered. Only then did his eyes leave hers. He marveled at the perfection revealed to him and he lowered his head until his lips replaced his fingers. Her breath ragged, Elena raked both hands though the silky black curls and pressed his head to her, arching her back, her hair grazing the floor behind her.
Alejandro released the sword from his hand and it clattered to the floor beside them, the sudden noise accelerating their passion. Free of the sword, his hand went to her waist to support her body as he bent her back even further. Elena moaned as his hot lips, tongue and teeth tormented her breast, licking and sucking. His day's growth of beard softly rasped her skin. Her fingers curled and knotted in his hair. Still supporting her waist, his other hand moved to cup her round buttocks and he ground her hips hard to him. She groaned as she felt his arousal then his hand as it curved down between her thighs to caress her through the satiny garment that was rapidly becoming wet.
His breathing labored now, his mouth abandoned her breast and captured her mouth, his lips forcing hers wide to accept his exploring tongue, his hand moving from her waist to support her head. They both moaned as their tongues entwined. Elena released his hair and almost frantically moved to his hips feeling the firm muscle of his buttocks through the black pants and pressed him to her forcefully.
"I want you inside me," she whispered between breathless gasps. "Alejandro, I need you inside me." Her trembling hands found the buttons of his pants but struggled uselessly against the tightly stretched fabric.
Alejandro's hands moved to her shoulders and he guided her backwards until she was pressed against a solid carved wooden post at the foot of the bed that supported the canopy. He turned and grabbed the sword from the floor. "Don't move," he whispered as he carefully slipped the tip of the sword under the stays of the corset and snipped them open one by one, deliberately taking his time to avoid cutting her. His slow movements only added to their excitement. Elena dared not breathe until the last hook was opened then she impatiently pulled the garment away and tossed it into the corner. Her satiny undergarment followed and she stood before him naked.
"Give me the sword."
Alejandro looked at her in surprise then hesitated as he realized what she intended to do with it. His hand went to his pants. "I'll take care of...."
"Give me the sword, Alejandro."
Realizing there was no point in arguing with his spirited wife he reluctantly passed her the handle of the sword.
"Now, stand perfectly still."
Alejandro gulped and looked at the ceiling praying that her hand would find divine guidance. He felt the tip of the sword work its way carefully into the waistband of his pants then expertly snip away the top button without touching his skin. He relaxed a little but stood rock still. The sword worked its way slowly down his taut abdomen carefully avoiding the hard bulge that stretched the fabric so tight, cutting through the pants and the thin black silk undergarment that he favored. He looked at Elena's beautiful face -- a study in concentration and admiration. She looked back at him smugly as the last button fell and his body sprang free.
Alejandro grabbed the hem of his shirt in both hands and flipped it inside out and up over his head, buttons flying around the room as Elena dropped to her knees in front of him and took him in her mouth, at the same time working his pants down his legs to the floor. The sword was still dangerously in her hand. He tossed the shirt and kicked the pants to the growing pile of shredded clothing in the corner. Then he took the sword from her hand and flung it point first at the far wall where it impaled itself deeply into the dark wood and added one more gouge to the many already there. He grabbed Elena under the arms and raised her to her feet despite her protests of disappointment. He was far too aroused to take the caresses of her mouth too long right now.
He bent swiftly placing his arms under Elena's knees and behind her back as he picked her up effortlessly, holding her tightly to his bare chest. One long stride took him to their bed where he shouldered aside the lacy netting and gently placed her on her back. She opened her legs to him and he fell on top of her entering her in one smooth movement of his hips. She thrust up to meet him and wrapped both legs around his waist as if willing him never to leave her. His hands found hers and he stretched her arms above her and wide on the velvet covering of the bed, raising his upper body so just their hands and hips were joined.
Gazing down into her flushed face Alejandro whispered, "Te quiero." Then his mouth captured hers again and the surging strokes of his tongue matched the thrusting of his hips. Elena pulled her hands free and her nails raked his back. Her teeth found his neck and earlobe and she bit hard causing Alejandro to shudder.
She felt his arm move under her back and he quickly pulled her into a sitting position atop him, her long legs still wrapped around his waist, her arms in a similar posture around his neck. Alejandro's hands slid under her hips lifting and lowering her in rhythm with his movements, his body throbbing inside her. She felt like she was astride a great black stallion barely hanging on as he took her for a wild ride through the night.
The breeze from the window stirred the netting around the bed and Elena grabbed the transparent fabric as it brushed her arm and pulled it over and around them, the silkiness of the gauze caressing their moist skin and enveloping them within. Their wild movements caused the delicate netting to pull tight around them then rip away from the velvet canopy above before floating like the white gauze of a wedding veil on top of the writhing couple.
Her limbs quaking, Elena felt the sweet familiar waves build quickly then crash over her and she gasped like a drowning woman as she surrendered her body and soul to the man she loved. Alejandro shuddered violently and threw his head back as his body tightened then flooded into his wife. She looked down at her husband's face. His eyes were pressed tightly closed, the heavy brows dipped down in strain but curved up again over the nose giving him a mischievous look even in passion. His open mouth gasped for air and his soft lips were wet. His wild curls glistened on his forehead and neck and clung to the moist skin.
He was completely spent now and Elena reached behind his head, threading fingers through the damp hair and gently pulled his head forward onto her shoulder where she stroked his curls and murmured soft words of love while she rocked him like a child until his ragged breathing returned to normal.
Her hand left his hair and traced slowly down his neck and over his shoulder where, to her horror, she felt raised bloody welts inflicted by her fingernails. "Oh, Alejandro. Lie on your stomach, mi amor. Come, lie down." She coaxed the sleepy man face down on the bed. Elena sat back on her heels and stared at the damage she had inflicted -- scratches and scrapes, many oozing blood. "Why didn't you tell me I was hurting you?" she asked in a small voice.
He looked up and leered at her. "Because it didn't hurt at the time." His leer turned into a boyish lopsided grin and he lowered his head into the pillow again. "Besides, you do that every time we make love, you were just a bit more enthusiastic this time." His laugh was muffled by the pillow.
Elena smacked him sharply on his shapely rump. "Did you feel that?"
"Oh yes, I felt that, but only because there was nothing else to distract me," came the jovial reply.
Elena rolled her eyes as she left him for a brief moment, gathering her silk robe from the floor and pulling it on before she returned with a jar of salve. She regarded the red imprint of her hand on his left buttock and was very tempted to lean over and add teeth marks as well. Instead, she threw a leg over him and sat on his rump eliciting a "Hrumph" from him as she pushed his midsection into the soft feather mattress. She massaged his neck gently with one hand feeling him relax then she dipped her other hand into the jar and slathered cream on the cuts quickly working it in deep.
"Ow!" cried Alejandro, his body convulsing so hard that he almost unseated her. He twisted to face her. "Now what are you doing to me?"
"I need to put salve on those scrapes so they don't become infected."
"What you need to do, mi alma, is trim those fingernails."
"I know, I'm sorry. Now lie down again and let me finish. It'll stop stinging in a second."
Alejandro tossed her a dubious look but did as she asked. She applied more salve and felt his muscles tense slightly then gradually relax once more as she continued the massage down his back to his waist.
"Alejandro?"
"Mmmmm?" came the drowsy reply.
"How are we going to explain why the netting ripped this time?"
A low laugh rumbled in his chest. "Damned netting. I guess in the future we'll have to stick to the floor, or the bath, or the settee, or the window ledge. Nothing to wreck there."
Now it was Elena's turn to laugh. "What do you mean, nothing to wreck? The other night we flooded the floor with bath water and the water dripped down through the ceiling into the library."
"We'll just have to be a little less vigorous in the future, I guess."
Elena lovingly gazed at her husband's naked body. His face was turned to the side and the smile remained on his lips but his eyes were closed, the thick brows and long lashes casting shadows on his cheeks. "Less vigorous?" Elena considered that for a moment then added. "Maybe we can get rid of the netting or just let the mosquitoes bite instead. If I had wanted a man who was less vigorous do you think I would have married Zorro?" she teased.
She removed herself from her perch on his backside and slid off the bed. After returning the jar to her dressing table she wiped her hands on a towel. "Less vigorous indeed," she muttered as she returned to the bed. "I married a stallion not a gelding." She pulled a light sheet over Alejandro then settled down beside him.
He turned to his side and pulled her into his arms and held her tight. His mind was troubled again. "That peddler... what was his name? Pete something? He bothered you at the dance, didn't he, and he followed the men to Carmen's to fight the fire. That's very odd behavior for a peddler. Why did he stay here so long? And why would such a man risk his life fighting a fire for someone he didn't even know? At Carmen's he pulled me out of that well but the only reason he was at the well in the first place was because he followed every move I made -- watched everything I did."
"He made me very uneasy too," replied Elena. "I couldn't believe it when he approached me in the garden. He didn't frighten me but he shouldn't have been there. He seemed to want to stir up trouble between you and I."
"The attack on this house at the exact time when most of the men were gone can't be a coincidence. Could the fire and the ambush be connected?" Alejandro rubbed his eyes and sighed. He was exhausted but his racing mind would not allow sleep to come.
He was still for a moment then said quietly, "Elena, Zorro is needed again."
Those soft words sent a chill though her, as effective as a dousing with frigid water. Although she often privately referred to Alejandro as "Zorro" it was more an endearment than a literal description. He was her husband now and she wanted him by her side -- forever.
Alejandro continued, "I am going to follow the peddler to see what I can learn about him. I don't know why, but I feel he's the key to all of this."
Elena didn't reply but Alejandro sensed her distress in the dim light of the moon. "We both knew this time would come. So did your father... remember?"
"Yes, Alejandro, I remember. I knew that it would. But now that the time is here when you are actually going to wear the mask and cape again I'm terrified. We're parents now, Alejandro."
Alejandro smiled as he always did when he thought of his children. "I have every intention of seeing my son grow into a handsome, strong man, and my daughter into a beauty who slays men's hearts." He tickled his wife's ribs playfully. "And my exquisite wife -- into an ugly old hag with a hunched back, straggly gray hair and no teeth."
Elena gasped and punched him gently in the side with feigned anger. "Hag indeed. Well, even as a hag I will adore you. There were plenty of 'hags' at the fiesta who couldn't keep their eyes off you."
Alejandro wasn't sure why, but a vision of Dona Carmen came to his mind. He chuckled and yawned deeply. He would never admit it to Elena but the thought of being Zorro again erased every bit of tension from his body. He had often yearned to be on the back of Tornado flying through the night with his black cape whipping the wind behind him. It had been too long. Zorro was needed again. His body and mind were ready. Tomorrow the distinctive black costume would come out of hiding and Tornado would once again bear the ornate black and silver saddle. He pondered: Would he let Tiger accompany him or ask the young man to remain behind and protect his family? If he decided on the latter he knew he would be in for quite an argument.
He mentally shook himself. Enough for tonight -- he needed his rest. Alejandro kissed his wife's forehead then rolled onto his back, the cuts forgotten. He closed his eyes and soon drifted off to a peaceful, dreamless sleep.
Elena lay quietly for a while but sleep would not come, her mind still on the people who would take Alejandro from her if they could.
She propped up her head on her hand and studied her sleeping husband. "You don't know how beautiful you are do you, my dark angel? It would never occur to you that you are in so many people's dreams tonight," she whispered. "But you are. Miranda turns beet red and looks ready to collapse whenever you are near. Dona Carmen seems obsessed with you. Even Don Eusebio casts admiring glances your way when he thinks you do not notice. His eyes devoured you when you crossed swords with Tiger today. And there are others...."
She added thoughtfully, "Tiger notices. He notices."
Her voice turned a shade colder as she added with quiet determination. "You are mine, sweet Alejandro, all mine and I will never let another woman -- or man -- touch you the way that I do." Then she added with equal resolve, "Nor will I ever let any harm come to you my dashing Zorro." Tomorrow she would lift a sword in practice, something she had not done in years. Anyone who tried to harm Alejandro for any reason would have to deal with the wife of the fox. She thought about the outfits in her closet. She had black riding clothes that could easily be altered.
The only reply was deep, regular breathing.
Elena smiled down at the man she adored and would protect at all costs. "Te quiero." She brushed the tip of his nose with a kiss then lowered her head again and closed her eyes letting her mind wander back over the more pleasant events of the past few days and, despite the knot in her stomach, she slowly drifted off to sleep beside her husband.
Elena, curled in bed, watched her husband dress. "You are too quiet. Are you accustomed the morning after to sneaking away from a lady's bed?"
He smiled, leaning over her warm body. "Only your bed. I would be sleeping yet, but for your snoring."
She slapped his arm. "I do not snore. Ladies do not snore."
"Of course not." He kissed her. "I have things to do."
"It's still dark."
"Yes, yes, I know."
"You didn't mean it, did you? That Zorro was needed again?"
He stopped, in the act of pulling on his boots. "Yes, I meant it. Did you think I said it in jest?"
"No, I didn't think that exactly."
"You said nothing last night, guapa. What are you thinking now?"
"Last night, I was drugged with love. This morning, I think it is not yet time for Zorro. There's too much to risk."
"You know what we risked from the first, Elena mine. You've always known."
"It isn't time. I know it."
"You're afraid for me."
She sat up, hugging her knees, one finger lightly touching his white-sleeved arm. "For us."
"Do you think this will stop without my intervention?"
"No, I do not think it will stop if you do not intervene. But I believe you, Alejandro, you can stop it."
He regarded her thoughtfully.
"Do I change your mind?"
"I will consider it."
"I don't ask for you to lessen your vigilance. I only ask that you wait. Wait until it is unavoidable."
He pulled on his other boot, his brow furrowed. "I have said I will consider it."
--
Dona Carmen stood in the morning room, her white hands twisting her lace handkerchief.
Elena approached her, her dark eyes narrowed. "How lovely you look this morning, Dona Carmen. You slept well last night? What a horrible thing the fire was. Do you know any more about the cause?"
"No, I do not." Carmen, dressed in a sedate black stuff gown, a lace fichu at her throat, looked the picture of virtuous womanliness. "My dear Dona Elena, please forgive me."
"What am I to forgive you for? Please, do have a seat, Dona Carmen. You must be exhausted."
"Oh, no. I cannot. I'm surprised you are able to look at me. I'm afraid I behaved very unseemly."
Elena walked to where the pot of chocolate awaited, two delicate china cups on saucers beside it, small cakes on a silver tray, covered with a white embroidered cloth. "Chocolate, Dona Carmen?" she asked, preparing to pour.
"No. Nothing. I am too torn. Was there much damage, Dona Elena, to the hacienda? Monstrous that such a thing would happen here. "
"Not so much damage. It is mostly all repaired," Elena answered.
"And no one was hurt, then?"
"We seem to have come through the attack safely."
"I am so happy for that, at least." Dona Carmen walked nearer to Elena and Elena could smell the scent of Carmen's lemon verbena sachet, wafting from her dress. "I am contrite, Dona Elena. I feel I have compromised both myself and our friendship. Please forgive me."
Elena put the pot of chocolate down so that the tray rattled. "I am so sorry, Dona Carmen. I still do not know for what I am to forgive you."
"I am too mortified to mention it, but surely I must. My behavior with your husband at the fiesta, Dona Elena. When we danced. I forgot myself. It has only been too long, my dear friend, since I have been in the arms of an attractive man. I believe it went to my head -- I had a little wine with my supper and perhaps the combination caused the wanton display -- and I am so certain that Don Alejandro only reacted as he did because I threw myself at his head. I pray that you are not angry with him because of me." Carmen collapsed onto the gold settee, covering her face with her black lace gloved hands.
Elena took a deep breath and patted the woman's quivering back. "Think nothing of it. I don't."
Carmen looked up, her face flaming. "You do not?"
"No, no indeed. I trust my husband. And I know my husband thought nothing of it." Elena smiled. "Don't distress yourself, dear friend. You must stay and take some refreshment with me. Let's not discuss this again."
"You are so good," Carmen whispered, composing her rumpled gown.
"No, not at all."
"And Don Alejandro really thought -- nothing of the incident?"
"Nothing at all."
--
"My friend, marriage is both heaven and hell."
Tiger barely smiled, but his eyes lit up at the sound of Alejandro's voice. He put down the carving knife and the figure he'd been drawing, stroke by careful stroke, from the wood. "For you, I think it is mostly all heaven."
Alejandro nodded, "True. True. Today, however, I am going through hell."
Tiger watched as Alejandro picked up one of the wood carvings. "Very nice."
Tiger nodded, looking down, trying to disguise the look of pleasure. "It is a fox."
"I see that." Alejandro held the carving in the light. "You're an artist."
"No, hardly that."
"I have decided it is time to ride."
"As -- "
"Yes."
"Because of what has -- "
"Yes." Alejandro put the little fox back on the table. "My wife, the lovely Elena, disagrees."
Tiger nodded.
"You don't seem surprised."
"You are right."
Alejandro sat on the bench across from Tiger. "Then you agree?"
"I cannot agree or disagree."
"But you have an opinion about this."
"I trust your decisions, Don Alejandro."
Alejandro rubbed his temples. "Aiee, my head hurts."
--
Morning Dove hissed, "Hush. No more talk of it."
Mariana, seeing Dona Carmen and Dona Elena standing in the kitchen, nodded. "Si, mamacita."
Elena looked from Morning Dove to Mariana. "What is it?"
"It is nothing, Senora. Nothing for you to concern yourself with."
"If it concerns you and your family, Morning Dove, it concerns me. What is it? You are obviously both concerned about something."
Morning Dove shook her head, her cheeks reddening.
Elena said again, "Please go on."
Mariana murmured, "It is only village gossip. Only village trouble, Senora."
"Mariana, surely you know this concerns my husband and I."
Mariana looked at her mother quickly, then away. "Si, Senora."
Carmen said, "Perhaps it is really nothing, Dona Elena."
Elena ignored her, the only evidence of her displeasure her downturned mouth. "Now, please tell me."
"Senora, there have been babies -- stolen -- in the village and around the village."
"Dios mio! Stolen babies? Babies how old, Mariana?"
"Only babies. Three years old, four years old, babies."
Elena took hold of Mariana's rough hands. "Who? Who is doing this? Do you know?"
Mariana shook her head. "No."
"How many?"
"There have been five babies stolen in the last month."
Elena whispered, "Where are they being taken? Why?"
"No one knows."
Carmen said, "Oh, Dona Elena, you know these peasants. They have probably killed their own children through neglect and are using this as an excuse. I have heard nothing."
Uncharacteristically, Mariana interrupted her, "If you go into the village, you will hear weeping because of the babies -- weeping -- and no one knows."
Dona Carmen said, "That is a horrible story, girl. I hope it is not true."
Lifting her chin, Mariana said, "It is true."
Elena, her hands held to her breast now, whispered, "Mariana, why did no one tell us about this?"
Mariana shook her head again, Morning Dove said something to her, sternly.
Elena took Mariana's hand again, squeezed it, looked into the girl's tear-filled eyes. "Why were we not told?"
Mariana whispered, "I am so sorry." The girl rubbed her eyes with the palms of her hands.
"Mariana?"
"Pardon me, Senora, but we knew that there was trouble with the Dona Carmen and her troublesome mishaps and we knew that the fiesta occupied so much of your time to bring the nobility to the hacienda."
"It is I who should be sorry, Mariana. Don't apologize. Don't be afraid to come to me with these things. The fiesta is nothing to this. Please, do not cry."
"Six children missing?" Carmen repeated. "That seems extreme. Probably exaggerated."
"She said five children," Elena snapped.
"There is crying in the village," Mariana said again.
From behind them, in a soft and clear voice, Morning Dove quoted, "'In Ramah, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.' "
"Mother of Mercy! Peasants quoting scripture! What kind of a household are you running, Dona Elena?"
--
Elena knocked on the door to Tiger's rooms. "Tiger! Is he in there? Is Alejandro in there?"
For an answer, Alejandro himself opened the door. "You were looking for...," he started with a smile, but stopped, seeing her face. "What has happened? Has something else..."
"Did you know?" She included Tiger in her question, Tiger who stood against the wall, his burning eyes on both Alejandro and Elena. "Did you know that babies are being stolen in the village?"
"What?" Alejandro asked, drawing her into the room and closing the door. "What are you talking about, mujerita?"
"Did you know? Tiger?"
Tiger's face was blanched. He didn't answer.
Alejandro turned to Tiger. "My friend? Are you...?"
"Yes. I'm fine. Dona Elena, I heard nothing," the young man murmured, his lips scarcely moving.
"Are you all right?" Alejandro asked again.
Tiger nodded. "I'm all right."
"Now, Elena, perhaps outside...."
"No, now. I'm sorry if this bothers Tiger, Alejandro. Mariana just told me that there are babies in the village that are being stolen! This has been going on for a month! No one..."
"Babies being stolen? What is this, then?
"Mariana told me. Morning Dove didn't want her to say anything, Alejandro."
"Stolen babies? How many?"
"Five! And no one knows anything! No one knows who is doing it or where they have taken them."
"Why weren't we told?"
"Why should we have been told?" Elena stamped her little foot. "Why should we have been told? You are the appointed guardian of the people, Zorro, 'the Fox'."
"My little dove, please."
She said, more quietly, "And you were ready to ride as the Fox to protect your family, but all the while, in the village, a few miles away, among the people you have promised to protect -- horrible things occur! Babies stolen, Alejandro! What do you say to that?"
Alejandro stared hard at her.
"Babies nearly the age of our Joaquin. They did not tell us, Jandro, because they thought us too wrapped up in the mishaps of Dona Carmen and too concerned over our blessed --" Elena took a deep breath, "-- fiesta!"
"Is that why they did not inform us of this?"
"After Dona Carmen left, Mariana told me that Morning Dove forbade her mentioning it to us. Morning Dove was afraid for us, too."
"What would you have me do, then, love?"
"I would have you ride as Zorro."
"You are asking me to do this now?"
"I don't think I could stop you. I don't believe I could love you as I do if I thought I could stop you from doing the right thing."
"You have stopped me from doing the right thing," Alejandro said, bitterly. "Although it was not your fault. It has been mine. I have forgotten myself. I have forgotten my promise. I have been blind from love."
"May you always be in love." Forgetting Tiger's presence, Elena wrapped her arms around her husband, drawing him against her breast. "But may we never forget where our duties lie. We mustn't forget again."
"There has never been a woman as unselfish as you, Elena, my dove," he said, his voice deep with emotion.
She lifted his face, wiped away a tear from his cheek. "What would I do, my husband? If I were poor and had no recourse against those who took my children?"
"If I were poor and had your love, I would be the richest man in California. No, in this world."
--
"I apologized. And it wasn't easy," Carmen said, speaking into the mirror as she removed her ladylike hat, untying the black ribbands that went under chin.
Captain Jonathan Halligan moved behind her, his hands around her waist. "I would've liked to see you do it, though." He smiled at her.
She stood with her hands above her head, watching the both of them in the mirror. In her mind, Jonathan Halligan's blonde hair became a tumble of black curls, and the blue eyes of the Captain became the color of coffee -- the face of the beautiful Don Alejandro -- Carmen's face softened, her eyelids became heavy.
Halligan kissed her neck. "Did you grovel prettily, Carmen?"
Her lovely dream disturbed, she snapped, "Oh, yes. I was wonderfully apologetic."
He laughed. "Dona Elena's a fiery woman. You sure she forgave you?"
Carmen turned away, disdainfully hitching her pristine gown away from Halligan. "I wish that you would change your clothing before you come here."
He said, "Thought you liked this look."
She frowned. "You're filthy. And, I do not care whether Dona Elena forgives me or not. It was for appearances' sake. Because I still want access to the home of Don Alejandro and Dona Elena."
"Mostly to admire their etchings?" Halligan laughed.
"You're finding too much pleasure at my expense."
"I'd like a little pleasure. It's been awhile." He approached her again.
Carmen said, "I have the beginnings of a sick headache." Carmen glanced around the house. "Where is Valeria?"
"Who knows?"
"Who, indeed. I will be so glad when I can have some actual servants again. This is most humiliating."
"You do all right."
"Oh, so you say." Carmen glanced around the house. "You do not see the things a woman sees."
Halligan followed her into the sitting room, and flopped familiarly onto the couch there. He lit a cigar, with only a mumbled, "Mind if I smoke?"
She shook her head, walking around the room. How things had changed! Ah, life! Was there always to be pain? Oh, yes, everyone thought she had been happily married, but how wrong they were! Her husband -- she rubbed her ivory forehead, her well-shaped hands trembling -- Pedro had been kind, had been thoughtful, had been wonderful company, but Pedro had no need of her. She looked at Halligan as he slouched on the divan, his head tilted back, blowing smoke at the ceiling. Damn him! Damn all men! No, that would be too bad. Impossible to damn the beautiful Alejandro. To be needed, to be desired, to be treasured as Alejandro did Elena -- Oh, Holy Mother, that would be all in life she needed! Pedro hadn't needed her. Pedro had needed no one. The only thing Pedro had needed was the thrill he got from gambling. And when it came to gambling, he was indefatigable. So much so that he'd succeeded in gambling away the impossible -- he'd gambled away a fortune that had seemed endless.
"Dona Elena is most discountenanced over the missing children."
"That so? Who told her? I thought we had that covered."
"Her servants told her, Jonathan."
"Maybe a few more mysterious attacks on the hacienda..."
"By all means, attack the hacienda again. But do not, Captain, dare lay a hand on Don Alejandro, nor on the children."
"But your good friend Dona Elena..."
"Do as you like. This is not my affair."
Jonathan Halligan laughed. "Oh my god, but you're beautiful when you're cold."
Carmen lifted one white shoulder. "Dona Elena is persistent, Jonathan. She is highly unsettled by what the servants have told her. I believe she has gone to her husband with this information. And where Dona Elena is persistent, Don Alejandro is unrelenting."
"Like I said, more attacks on the hacienda ought to distract them. At a thousand dollars American for each kid, we can't afford any trouble."
"You're certain that the children are going to good homes -- that they will be better off? You're certain of this? You know I could not countenance this if I did not believe the children's destinies improved."
"You're so conscientious, Carmen."
"Don't mock me! You don't know! I loved my son. Domingo. He was my life. You don't know!" Carmen's hands were curled into tight fists. Her lovely eyes filled with tears.
"I'm sorry. I'm a brute. Of course the kids are going to good homes. It'll be a great improvement." He ground out his cigar, then held out his arms to Carmen. "Come 'ere, gorgeous."
--
Sent to investigate the goings-on in the village, Tiger reported his findings to Alejandro.
" ... Then they expect another abduction tonight?" Alejandro asked.
"Yes, Don Alejandro. That is what they expect. There has been none this week when every week before at least one baby was taken. They are very afraid, Senor, and they think Zorro has forgotten them."
"Why didn't Mariana tell you, Tiger?" Alejandro asked.
"She says it was because her mother did not want her to. She says it was because her mother worried for your safety and for the safety of the Senora and for your children."
"This is what they did to you."
Tiger nodded, biting his lip.
"When you were a baby. I know I have promised never to speak of this, Tiger, but I think I must."
Tiger looked up into Alejandro's face, at the clear brown eyes, and nodded. "Yes, I know it, Don Alejandro."
"You were taken from your parents and you were sold into slavery."
"Yes. Yes." The young man's head was bowed.
"Is there anything you can tell me, Tiger, that would help? Do you remember how they took you away?"
"I do not remember. I think it may have been by ship, Don Alejandro. I do not remember." His face crumbled.
Alejandro said, "My friend, it's in the past. This is the present. Think on the present and what we must do."
"Yes." Tiger looked up again, meeting Alejandro's gaze. "Thank you. For my life."
Alejandro, standing, said, "To the wars, Tiger."
--
In the lair of the fox, he stepped naked from the brass tub, the water dripping from his black curls, down his dark body, pooling at his feet. Without a word, he took the linen bath towel from Tiger and rubbed it cursorily through his hair, then over his face and body.
Tiger handed the clothing to him a piece at a time. Elena sat across the room from him, her hands twisting the skirt of her dress, spoiling its delicate embroidery. She sat silently, too, the ceremony of this event more sobering than she had imagined it would be.
When at last he stood before them, dressed in black from heel to head, he spread his hands. "Well, my wife?"
She walked around him, checking his appearance, conscientious of the last detail. The boots were of the finest leather, created by a master. In these boots, footsteps were as silent as night. The pants were deep black, fit snugly for quick movement, but not tight. The shirt was cut loosely, deep armholes for freedom of arm movement. She nodded. "Yes. You'll do."
He smiled, "I am most happy to hear that."
She handed him the belt. "Turn, guapo."
He turned as she slid the belt around his waist, the silver sword scabbard bumping against his leg. She fastened the belt, solemnly looking into his eyes.
Tiger handed the cape to Elena. She put it upon her husband's shoulders, fastening the silver clasp in front. The mask was next. Deftly, she combed through Alejandro's curls, only pausing once when he muttered, "Caramba, you are killing me." The mask went on, and she tugged it into place, her heart pounding a tattoo of panic. He is not so much yours now, something dark inside of her whispered. Elena frowned. She answered aloud, "It was for this you were born."
His eyes -- yes, those were his eyes, and his mouth. His eyes smiling at her. She leaned forward, kissing his full mouth. "I suppose Zorro kisses, yes? It seems to me I remember he does."
"Only the very pretty ones." He stood. She could feel him withdrawing.
She handed him the black leather gloves, very tight, they were made very snug, of the best leather money could buy, leather with flexibility and strength.
"Don't forget this." He ducked his head as she replaced the silver medallion given to his brother so long ago by her own father.
He looked about him. "The sword, Tiger."
Tiger brought him the sword, a thing of beauty, the summation of all the metallurgical genius in Cordoba. Alejandro removed it from its flannel case, and slid it into the scabbard, metal sliding against metal.
"The hat." Elena retrieved it for him, dusting imaginary specks from it before handing it to him.
He held it in his hands, and looked at her. Elena wanted to touch him but couldn't. "I am to go to the house and wait," she said softly.
"Yes. It will be better there, my love. You must continue as you always do."
"I will."
"And Tiger."
"I am going with you," the young man said, raising his chin.
"No. You are not."
"But..."
Zorro raised his hand. "Listen to me. You will stay here and protect our family. You understand?"
At the words, "our family," Tiger looked up, strange eyes gleaming. "Yes. Yes. I will stay and protect -- protect our family."
"Good. Very good." Zorro said, his voice rough, "I would trust no one else to do it."
Tiger nodded.
"Bring Tornado, then."
As Tiger ran to get the horse, Zorro took the small hand of his wife. He studied it, beautiful hands, fingernails like small shells, skin as smooth as the finest satin. He carried her hand to his mouth, kissed it, felt her trembling. He said softly, "Mi vida -- I will return."
Tornado stamped his hooves and snorted, disdainful of the saying of goodbyes.
Without a backward look, Zorro mounted the horse, black on black, and rode into the moonless night.
--
Ascending the hidden staircase, Elena said, "He will go first to the village -- and watch."
Tiger nodded.
"When you went to the village this afternoon, Tiger, it was said that they were in waiting for another attack tonight?"
"Yes, Dona Elena. That is correct. Since this began, there has been one baby taken every week. There has been none this week, and tomorrow is the Sabbath. The villagers believe it will be tonight. They are watchful and very afraid."
Dona Elena nodded. "I want him to also see about Dona Carmen, too, to make sure that all is well at her hacienda. But first, he must go to the village."
Tiger nodded again, taking her elbow as they walked through the darkness.
"I say all this, Tiger, I try to gain some control by thinking what I would do if I were him. I desire his safety, more than anything. Do you know that?"
"Yes, Dona Elena. I know this."
It felt good to ride, por Dios, it felt good. He rode through the night, the darkened paths he turned Tornado down were well-known to him, well-known to Tornado. The cool night wind blew back the folds of his cape. Elena's words went through his mind, "It was for this you were born."
Zorro slowed the powerful horse. Tornado tossed his mane, showed his teeth, but obeyed the tug on the reins.
There was a fringe of sparse trees surrounding the edge of the village. Zorro slid from the horse, soundlessly. He tethered Tornado near a hulking boulder, whispering as he crept away, "Behave, hombre. Or there will be no oats for you."
--
Vittoriano Luis Ricardo Aguilar slept soundly in his little cot. His mamacita slept not four feet away, and her hand held the edge of his blanket.
Vittoriano was three years old, with dense black hair and dark, velvety eyes. He was a sober child, watching the events that passed in his life with silent, solemn contemplation. When he smiled, his mamacita believed the sun had come out. When he laughed, she declared, the angels did too. He was, in short, his mamacita's life. Vittoriano's papa left last year to seek his fortune, and had not returned. Vittoriano didn't remember what his papa looked like.
He slept deeply. And his mamacita never heard the intruder until he was upon her.
She awoke, frightened, not knowing why, and saw the form of a man standing over her baby's cot. She tried to scream, but when the man saw she was awake, he slapped her once, hard, then leaned over her where she cowered. "Say nothing, or I kill the brat."
She whimpered, "Do not take him. Do not take my baby. Take anything you want, but do not take my baby."
The man laughed, "Is that an invitation? Too bad I don't have time to take you up on it, Senora."
He scooped Vittoriano up in his arms, and startled, the baby wailed. He said, "Don't worry about it, Senora. You'll pop another one before you can count to three."
She whispered, "No, no."
Then the man was gone, and Vittoriano was gone. She put both of her hands in his cot, and she could still feel where his little body had been, but he was gone. She screamed.
--
From the other side of the village, Zorro heard the scream, and ran toward the sound. As he neared the little home, he saw a dozen people gathered in the front, saw a small woman, her hands upraised, her eyes glazed, heard her cry, "Vittoriano!"
Instead of going to the front of the house, where the small crowd had gathered, Zorro moved to the back. He saw the little door at the back, standing open on its hinges. He heard voices, "Senora Anna, did you see his face? Did you see the face of the man who took your Vittoriano?"
"No! His hat shadowed his face! He wore a hat so that I could not see his face!"
Zorro made a face, stood in the shadows, squinting into the dark. There was nothing. No movement, no scent, nothing in the shadows. The abductor had gone. But not far.
--
The boy stood very still against the boulder, his slim body pressed tightly against its rough surface.
Only a few feet away, The horse was tethered, tossing its silky mane and snorting, unthreatened by the alien presence of the boy, but disapproving of it, all the same. The boy thought it must take a very strong man to master a horse like this one.
In the cloud filtered moonlight, a scorpion skittered across the top of the boulder. The boy still did not move. He was scarcely detectable in the shadow of the boulder.
Out of the darkness he saw a movement that was pure shadow, then the moonlight caught a glint of silver and he was there -- the man standing only a few feet from him.
The man untethered the horse, whispering to it, "A quick exit is needed, my friend."
With one fluid movement, his cape flying back, the man mounted the horse and turned its head.
The boy chose that moment to step from behind the boulder. "Senor Zorro?"
The man known as Zorro wheeled the horse about, and the boy heard a faint clink of silver, a bare slice through the air and saw a sword was leveled at him.
"A word, Senor Zorro?" the boy asked again.
"I could have killed you chico."
"Senor, I do not believe you would have," the boy said staunchly, trying to still the trembling in his legs.
Zorro laughed and sheathed the sword. "What is it, then?" The big horse danced. "I have a most important appointment to make."
"Senor, it is this: I know where the babies -- I know where it is they are taking the babies."
Zorro leaned forward, his fingertips tilting the boy's face upward, toward him, the light of the moon, coming from behind a cloud lit the face. "What do you know about this, chico? There have been five babies -- six babies now -- abducted from their families in this month. What do you know, then?"
"Senor, I know where they have taken them. They took my baby sister. Can you bring her home, Senor Zorro? My mama, she mourns her. She cries all night when she thinks I do not hear. Can you help us, Senor Zorro?"
Zorro looked away from the boy, glancing back over his shoulder. The moonlight streamed from behind the clouds, black sky lightened by silver. Half of his face was covered with the black mask. He frowned, now, his full lips downturned. He shook his head. "What is your name?"
"They call me Paquito."
"Here, Paquito. Take my hand."
The boy unquestioningly took the black-gloved hand.
"Put your foot in the stirrup."
The little boy did as he was told, his bare foot on top of Zorro's booted one, and then he was swinging his leg over the back of the big horse and sitting behind Zorro.
"Hold on, chico. Tornado is the devil." The boy just had time to wrap his thin arms around Zorro's waist when he felt the horse explode into movement.
For one dizzying moment, he thought he was flying. He pressed his cheek against the smooth black back of the legendary Zorro and held on.
Zorro laughed, his deep voice rumbled in the child's ear, "Are you frightened, little one?"
The boy shook his head "no." And indeed, though they flew in the night over dangerously rocky terrain, the boy had never felt so safe in his life.
--
"It's there." Paquito pointed at the big ship where it was docked.
Zorro raised an eyebrow. "How is it you know this?"
The boy lifted his small, pointed chin. "I waited, Senor. I followed them. I am small and no one notices me when I hide in the shadows. I heard them say they were going to the ship. I followed them."
Zorro glanced at Paquito's bare feet. "You are a machito, with the heart of a hunter."
The boy smiled.
"Why didn't you tell your mother or one of the men?"
"They would do nothing. What could they do? The ship is armed. They said Zorro no longer cared. They said Zorro would not come. But I knew, if I waited, and I believed, I knew you would come."
"Do you know who it is, Paquito, who is taking the children?"
"I recognized one of the men, Senor."
"Who was it?"
"He was a paid man of Don Miguel Ruiz de la Gaonera."
Zorro nodded. As they watched, a man carrying an inconspicuous bundle in his arms boarded the ship.
Zorro hissed, his breath between his teeth. He hadn't seen the man until he was at the ship. He must be coming from the east. But that would mean he was passing directly through Dona Carmen's property.
"Will you bring my sister home, Senor Zorro?"
"Yes, Paquito." He ruffled the small boy's hair. "You have done very well."
"Gracias, Senor Zorro."
"I want you to stay here with the horse. I want you to be as still as a shadow. You can do that, yes?"
"Yes."
"No matter what happens, Paquito."
"Yes, Senor Zorro."
"Bueno." He absently patted the child's head.
Paquito said, "Senor Zorro, my papa used to say that you whistled for the horse. Do you whistle for the horse when you want him to come?"
Zorro glared at Tornado and said, "We're working on it." He moved from the shrub cover, a noiseless black shadow.