Alex and Alez

8/14/2019 Alex and Alez

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Chapter 1

California, 1802.

Spanish lord, Alejandro Santiago watched the girl in his fields from his bedroom

window. It was difficult to see what she was doing but he was sure of who she was;Alexandra De Sanchez. No one else had red hair in the village. He knew Federico, her

father; their family had just moved here from England but he knew Federico would never

let his daughter wander around on another mans land so what on earth was the girl doingin there? He toyed with the idea of sending one of his men to bring her in but brushed the

thought away; the men would probably scare her. He would goafter his drink.

Alexandra had cornered Menelaus, her dog. She was trying not to startle him and was

moving in slowly. The creature probably thought it was a game. He pranced around readyfor another run. Idiot would have been a better name for you She said to the dog. He

barked. Shhh! someone will hear us. Apparently someone did; she heard sounds coming

from beyond the clearing she was standing in. This is just great. Here she was on a mansplantation. This was the sort of thing thatNo! She was not going to think about that

now. Menelaus! Come! Out of some miracle the dog actually followed her. She

planned on going to the center of the field then moving towards the only unguarded

fence. Damn the stupid maze! She planned to this, but which way led to the center? Thenext sound made her heart start beating wildly; it was the sound of hooves and she didnt

want to be caught in here. Ok. Calm down. She told herself. All she needed to do was

find the nearest path. But where was that?

The sounds got nearer and she broke into a run. She could hear and feel the horse behindher and suddenly she was pulled unto a horse by a pair of very strong arms. She could tell

that this was no ordinary worker by the softness of his shirt, it was definitely silk. Shecould feel his taut muscles beneath his shirt and his cologne seemed to fill her senses.No! What was she doing? She should be fighting to get away from him. If word of her

being here got to her fatherwell the thought didnt bear consideration.

Let go of me Seor or your master will hear of this! What was the man doing here

anyway? She thought.

I fear He already knows. He said and there was amusement in his voice.

Ill scream if you dont let me go. She didnt mean this of course; the last thing she

wanted was to draw attention to herself and, besides, if what the man said was true, DonSantiago might have sent him here. He was probably a well paid henchman. Her struggleswith him, however, did not elicit any response from him other than a laugh. So she

screamed but far from letting her go, he put his hand over her mouth and said Hush

Querida. Since she couldnt bite his hand she licked it instead. His reaction showed thatit was just as effective. She spat and said I am not your dear! (She had learned Spanish

from her maid Bernadine) Now let me go this instant! Surprisingly enough he did and

she got off the horse with as much dignity as she could muster. When she turned around


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to give him the tongue lashing he so richly deserved, her eyes widened in shock. The man

on the horse was none other than Don Santiago. He smiled. You might want to get back

on the horse; you wont get far on foot

I was trying to get out

Ahh but why were you in?

My dog ran in here and I was trying to find himhes somewhere herehe just ran

offhell turn up any minute nowany minute now. She realized she was just

rambling but the skeptical look on his face made her slightly nervous and the continuedabsence of Menelaus made her story seem false. She looked around for the dog. It was

true of course but unless the stupid animal suddenly turned up, it was likely he wouldnt

believe her and then what? This was his land and she was trespassing; dog or no dog.What did they do to trespassers in this country?

Come up on the horse. Ill take you home He said.

No, no. Im sure I can find my way if you just get me out of this maze.

Oh no. I couldnt let you walk.

I walked and ran here chasing Menelaus, so Im sure I can do it again.

Menelaus?

My dog

Oh, he said in comprehension. Any how I insist. I never let a lady walk if I can help

it.

Please do.

Give me a reason.

I have one

But?

But I cant give it now.And if I can help it I never will.

When will you give it then?

Sometime.

Will it be as interesting as your reason for being here?


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That was the truth! She said rounding on him. She had been walking towards a path she

could beyond the clearing; she assumed he would tell her if she was going the wrong

way; he was right behind her after all.

I never said it wasnt, Querida.

Can you refrain from calling me that?

In reply he rode forward, grabbed her and swung her unto the horse; right in front of him.

She screamed again and tried but failed to get out of his grasp.

You cant take me home! Do you know what my father would say if I arrived astrideyour horse looking like this? Did you bother to think about the possible consequences of

your taking me home? No! Of course not! You only

I only planned on taking you to the main road.

Iohrightum thank youbut why couldnt you just ask? You nearly gave me

heart attack!

I did ask.

And I said no

Would you rather walk?

Actually nowellthank you She said grudgingly and turned away, staring right in

front of her.

The pleasure is mine.

For the next five minutes they rode in silence; perhaps the man had decided to leave her

to her own musings

What color is your dog? or not.

Why?

If its seen I would think you would want it returned to you.

Hes brown with a white nose. The odd silence prompted her to thank him once again.

Again the pleasure is mine.

They rode on for about ten minutes in silence until they reached the main road.


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Are you sure you dont want me to take you home?

Yes. Im sure. Thank you again. Goodbye Don Santiago.

Please call me Ally.

Only if you call me Alex Wait! Where had that inappropriate outburst come from?

And the man was smiling. He turned his horse around saying, Goodbye Alex, well seesoon enough.

What did he mean by that, she wondered. She was still puzzling over this when

something or someone grabbed her arm. Come with me!

Seorita Honduras! What are you ?

I should be asking you the same question, Alexandra. Alex hated being called

Alexandra and Honduras was one of the few people who actually called her that. ButIm sure your father will be capable of asking you himself.

Mymy father? You didnt? You couldnt have

The minute I saw you sneaking in hereI never thought the Don could be so

The Don did nothing! Alex said, tearing her arm away. And I can find my own way

home, thank you very much! With that she turned and started towards home.

Somebodys in trouble, her younger sister Adele sang. Daddy wants to see you.

Do you know why?

Oh no; I never listen to other peoples conversations

Liar!

She went towards the stairs but hesitated on the first step; perhaps her sister could be ofsome help. Do you know who he was talking to?

Im not your spy, she said superciliously and returned to what she was sewing.

I hope you prick your finger.

I hope you break your heart.

What is that supposed to mean?

Nothing.


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Then why did you say it? Why would I break my heart?

Why, why, pigeon pie.

Of course, your little bouts of madness. Alex said going up the stairs, her sisters

laughter following her.

Come in, Alexandra. (Her father was the only other person who called her that wellher brother did but only when he was extremely angry).

She walked in and closed the door behind her.

Alexandra, I will not beat about the bush. I ask you: Why were you sneaking around in

Don Santiagos fields?

I wasnt sneaking around. I was trying to find Menelaus.

Seorita Honduras says you where on his horse draped all over him.

She would. Alex muttered.

What was that?

Nothing.

There. See?; even now you disrespect me.

Im not trying to be disrespectful, father. She said slowly.

Why do you do this to me, Alexandra?

I was just

Is that the way of a lady of my household? Do you know what it means for my own

daughter to be seen with a man? Unattended!?

But you know the Don

It is of no consequence whether I know him or not. From now on

Excuse me father Lincoln, her elder brother came in right on time, in her opinion.Theres a man who wishes to see you on some very important matters. He looked

quizzically at Alex, who refused to meet his eye.

Ill talk to you after dinner, Alexandra. Her father said and left the room.


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What did you do this time? Lincoln asked.

Nothing whatsoever.

Nothing whatsoever?

Nothing whatsoever. She reaffirmed.

Then why is father livid and Adele overjoyed.

Im starting to hate that girl.

She grows on you after a while.

Like a parasite? She asked with a grin.

You know I didnt mean thatHe laughed. I used to hate you too; everyone treatingyou like glasscome to think of it they still do; I just stopped noticing when I started

doing it myself.

This is all that snakes fault. Alex said, vehemently.

That Honduras woman?

See the nickname makes sense.

Careful; the walls have ears.

Our walls wouldnt tell hers anything. Besides Im not afraid of her. All she has is her

vipers tongue and I dont care about talk.

Maybe you should.

Maybe you should. She imitated him Dont be so supercilious. You dont care about

talk either. Youve said so yourself many times.

I dont have to. You, on the other hand, do. He left the room.

Stop being so damned prophetic, Lincoln. It doesnt fit you.

Alex sat cross-legged on her bed her eyes wide with rapturous delight. Her personalmaid, Bernadine, busied herself with some articles of clothing while she listened with

interest to her lady speak.

Oh Bernadine, you should have been there! Alex gushed.


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My lady, I think you would rather I wasnt there.

Yes, yes, youre right. But Bernadine his arms

Yes?

He was so strong and soso manly. And his smell

His smell?

Oh no. I meant his cologne. It wasit made me so lightheaded. And his smile wasitwas heavenly.

Was it really? Adeles sneering voice floated into the room as she walked in.

Dont you ever knock?

And miss the looks on peoples faces when I come in? Of course not!

Get out Adele!

Fine! She said, stalking out and slamming the door behind her.

Trust herto ruin my fantasy.

My lady, may I make a suggestion?

If it doesnt involve the disappearance of my sister, please dont. No, really do go on.

Well I think shes lonely; maybe if you talked to herYou and Master Lincoln never

pay any attention to her and shewell maybe she needs that.

If this were any other person, Bernadine, honestly, I would agree with you but my sisterdoesnt need to talk to me; shes part of every conversation in this house, even though the

other people involved dont know shes there.

But maybe if you invited her to talk, she wouldnt have to listen at keyholes.

She doesnt have to listen at keyholes; she doesnt need to hear what is being said behindclosed doors.

What she needs is someone to talk to, theres no one her age around here.

What she needs is a good thrashing and Im sorry Bernadine but I dont want to talk

about my sister; shes selfish and full of spite.


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Selfish maybe, but full of sadness not spite.

Bernadine

Oh Ok. She said raising her arms up in mock surrender. So what did the Don look

like?

Did I tell you about his eyes? Theyre green! Can you imagine green eyes? And his hairwas as black as ebony!

The dinnig room was large enough to seat twenty and was not at all to Alejandros taste.

The room was well lit, especially the side on which he sat and ate in silence. His longtime friend, Narciso chose that moment to enter then promptly begged pardon and was

about to leave when Ally called him back.

Narciso, come dine with me.

Oh Seor I could not.

Would you deny me this one thing; eating alone is very boring.

Is it really, Seor?

Yes Narciso. You know it is.

Then far be it from me to deny you my company, he said, sitting down.

Im glad your ready wit has not left you.

This is like old times.

In the fields

By the river Alejandro laughed then said, I really wanted to talk to you. Youve

become so distant. Is it something I said?

Hes sick of your company, Ally.

Carlos! Welcome! Come join us.

Dont need to be asked twice. He said sitting down.

How about a toast? asked Narciso. To long life.

To women, said Carlos.


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To fields and horses. said Alejandro.

Chapter 2

Ally was fingering a sword. He was in huge room with a high ceiling, a fighting court of

sorts, which had an assortment of weapons hung on almost every bit of space on thewalls. It was equipped with everything necessary for a fight but did not have seating for

onlookers, it was a private court. It, however, had benches at opposite ends of the room,

upon one of which, sat Ally. The chamber had twelve windows, (three in each wall) highin the walls. A door, of which there were two opposite each other, opened. Carlos walked

in and asked, Are you planning on killing anyone?

Yes, you, he replied jokingly. This was fathers

I know. I used to come in here and play with his weapons.

And he would come in and tell you to stop but you never did.

How about a fight? Carlos suddenly asked.

A fight? Surely you jest.

No, Im serious. Come on. Are you afraid youll lose?

I hardly ever lost to father once hed thought me. Why would I lose to you? Ally asked

in good natured fun. Or were you planning on paying me to let you win? It would cost

you more than you can afford

Are we doing this or are you just going to talk? Carlos asked with a tinge of impatience

in his voice.

Alright then. Choose your weapon.

Alex flipped through the book she was reading not really paying attention to the words.

She kept glancing up and looking around the room and every time she looked down shewould flip through a few pages. Ordinarily she would have been enjoying the story but

she had other things on her mind. They had just had breakfast (a meal Alex considered to

be the most tedious of them all especially since Adele was presentwhere was she

anyway?) and were lounging in one of the many parlors the mansion consisted of. Herbrother, Lincoln, who was seating opposite her, looked up from the newspaper he was

going through and said, Either youve suddenly developed the ability to read atlightening speed or youre not really reading that book. She put the book down with a

smile and said, Im not

A penny for your thoughts.


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My thoughts arent worth a penny.

Can I have them for free then?

Im thinking of a word that starts with the letter A. Can you guess what word it is?

Is it a name?

You know then? She asked, sitting up.

Actually no. Lincoln replied, slightly surprised at her enthusiasm.

Ohwell its theAlehandro Santiagoyou know him dont you?

The one I met in Monterrey?

Yes. He lives here andoh Lincoln I think Im in love.

Youre obviously infatuatedbut waitIm remembering something. As he said this a

smile began to play across his face. Dont remind me Lincoln, Alex said. She felt herears getting hot.

No, no, this is too funny, He had started laughing now. You fancied that fop from

Belgium. What was his name?

Michelangelo. Yes, yes and he was

Marriedhe was bloody married.

Its not funny, Lincoln. Elder brothers are supposed to be compassionate to theirsisters.

You were ten! I still cant believe you sneaked up into

Go on laugh! You never take me seriously, no one does. She said with an exaggerated

pout. Lincoln got up and playfully ruffled her hair as he left the room. She said nothingbut stared at his retreating back. She had hoped Lincoln would forget that incident with

Mike. But then no body would ever forget everything she had done in London. She had

been young and restless; why couldnt anyone see her differently now. She got up andwent out to the balcony breathing in the tangy sea air. Alex had been coming to this

balcony lately to think and just dream. Her mother had always said she was a romantic,

always playing at being a princess while Jeremy Collingwood, one of her very good

friends, played the prince. In her minds eye, she saw a fairy tale romance in which ahandsome prince would come and sweep her off her feet. Shed never told anyone about

this fantasy mainly because it sounded so silly and childish and also because the

likelihood of that ever happening was slim. Back home she was everyones friend, but


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nothing else. No one saw her as a woman. Couldnt people see that she had grown up?

Couldnt they see her as anything but a tomboy who was good company? In her tight knit

circle of friends her behavior which had fallen just short of recklessness, was not lookeddown upon and she had had such good connections that not even the strictest of the ton

would dare to ostracize her. But then her friends got married and even her connections

couldnt save her from the scorn of all the eligible men who werent friends. Perhaps thatwas why they werent friends. Who wanted a reckless redhead with a temper to scorch

the earth as their wife? Apparently nobody did or she would have been snatched up

immediately. Her dowry alone would attract many and she wasnt exactly ugly. In factshe was vain enough to classify herself as beautiful. So why at eighteen wasnt she

married. She pretended she didnt care when half of her friends were married at sixteen

but the prospect of becoming an old maid was enough to have her at her wits end. She

could not adopt a completely different lifestyleno she wouldnt. Of all the things hermother had told her, she remembered her constantly reminding Alex to be herself. The

problem was that England did not accept individuality quite so well. So maybe it was

time to take a different approach. In most cases the move to California had been the best

thing to have happened to her. She could start over. She had made a resolution to getmarried by the end of this year and then Alehandro Santiago had practically fallen into

her lap. Or rather she had fallen into his. That couldnt happen again. From now on shewould be the epitome of lady-like behavior. As hard as it was to admit, her father was

right.

Give up, Carlos? Ally asked, his sword holding up his brothers chin.

How do you do it? Carlos asked, still on the floor.

Do what? Ally asked sheathing his sword.

You know, sword fighting.

Like I said before, father taught me. Come get up. He replied, holding out his hand.

Carlos accepted the offer and with Allys aid got up. Do you think you could teach me?

It might come in handy someday. He asked tentatively.

Of course I why would it come in handy? You arent still fighting that Hernandezboy are you?

Not right now but if I could prove myself better than him maybe Ill get some respect

from people here.

You dont need to prove yourself to anyone.

No you dont, ImIm just your little brother and nothing else. I just need a fewpointers and I could take him.

Im not going to teach you to kill yourself. Ally said, an edge to his voice.


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You dont think I could win?

I dont think you have to.

Have to? Have to? What do you know about what people have to do? You dont have to

do anything here. Every one respects you, everyone knows you and if they dont theywant to. Thats your life, yourperfectlife that you dont have to do anything in because

everyone does it for you. Do you know what my life is like? Of course not. You dont

have to so why would you. Let me give a little insight into my life. Every day I have tostand behind you even if you arent there. Im your shadow, your little brother from

England, the gringo. No one respects me the way they do you. No one cares what I say or

what I do. Im stuck being your shadow for the rest of my life and you tell me about what

I have to do. You dont know anything about what people have to do. Whats more youdont care. I ask you for one thing one little thing and you wont give it to me. For

heavens sake, Im your own flesh and blood and you

Stop Carlos, Ally bit out, Ive heard what you have to say and

No you havent. You still think this is okay. Well its not

Shut up Carlos! You claim to live a hard life yet I dont see that. And I think you of allpeople are the last to be making assertions about my life. You want my life? Well you

cant handle it. You couldnt last one day in my shoes. You see that out there, He

pointed at a wall, I have to run every aspect of it. I have to deal with people who allwant different things and get them to work together. I have to deal with theirissues. They

come to me. Not because Im their favorite person in the world but because thats my job.

Its called responsibility, brother dear, He made the words sound like an epithet,

something which you know nothing about. They stood opposite each other, Ally withhis hands clenched and his eyes glinting and Carlos looking mutinous. He was red in the

face and his knuckles were white as he gripped the sword hilt.

Fine! He said, Fine. Here, have the stupid sword. He threw it at Allys feet, spunaround and stormed out of the chamber, slamming the door through which he had come

in. The opposing door opened revealing Narciso. Maybe you should teach him. Ally

turned to him and just stared at him for a while then, looking as though he werepondering something, asked, How long have you been there?

Long enough. Narciso replied. Ally checked his pocket and felt a set of keys. He

looked back at Narciso, who had an impassive expression, inwardly shrugged then asked,And you really think I should teach him?

Its not necessarily what I think. Perhaps a strengthening of the bond you share wouldhelp him on the path to self actualization.

Perhaps, perhaps not. I just dont want him to feel ready and jump into a fight with

Hernandez, thinking he can win.


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Maybe he is ready

Trust me, hes not. Carlos has so much energy but just puts it in all the wrong places.

From what I know of Hernandez, hes excellent with swords. He could beat Carlos in hissleep.

An excellent reason why you should teach him. The knowledge certainly wont be

wasted.

Thats the thing. As long as he does not think hes up to it, he wont put himself in any

unnecessary danger. At this point Narciso laughed. Whats so funny? Ally asked.

Im just imagining the look that would have been on your face, if your father had told

you this. The laughter gone, he said, Ally, you can refuse to teach him but you cant

stop him from fighting. One day hell want to fight and hell go out hoping to prove

something. You arent going to be there on that day so dont you think it would be better

if he knew something of the art? Ally looked at the sword Carlos had thrown at his feet.He bent, picked it up and said, I just hope Im doing the right thing.

Chapter 3

Alex lay in her bed, relishing the warmth around her. Sucks to England! She could justimagine what the weather would be like there and shivered involuntarily. Although she

had grown up in England, she had never liked the chilling temperatures and had acquired

an affinity for velvet. Wearing that now was ridiculous. In fact wearing anything otherthan cotton and perhaps silk she could never abandon silk was impossible. It was just

too warm. Well not really; early in the morning and late in the night, when the cool air

had its vengeance, one really needed some kind of cover. And even then the only one shewould be dressing up for was the sand man and he apparently found tousled hair and arumpled night gown quite appropriate in his court. A very childish night gown, might she

add. It was sooooooo awfully appropriate, that Alex often closed her eyes to the sight in

order to stop herself from ripping the horrid thing to shreds. It really was too apposite forher tastes but, by English standards, she was still a child and a childs clothing she must

wear until she had her official debut At least that was what was supposed to happen. It

was not that she minded missing her debutante ball it might well have been a disaster but then again she could have actually gotten married. And thenthen she would know.

She would know all sorts of things that her friends (married as they were) had hinted to

her about. She knew one thing at least; she would not have to wear this entrapment ever

again. A thought flashed through her mind, she shoved it away immediately then stoppedherself. Why did she just do that? Was it so embedded in her mind that she was a child

and would always be one, that she could not even bring herself to venture into the

recesses of her mind and dwell on the thoughts that lay there? She felt angry with herselfand everyone at that moment. Currently she had even less freedom than her sister (more

so than before now that she was restricted to the mansion indefinitely. Sometimes) who

was allowed to run wild and yet never actually did so. She would probably rub it in herface thishow long was this going to last? Ugh! And even with her limited mobility, she


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couldnt even think whatever she wanted to. Despite the anger building up in her,

however, she could not bring herself to think anything inappropriate and it was their fault.

Honestly! She thought bitterly, punching a pillow into shape. Why was it that everyone(and by that she meant her family) seemed to acknowledge, even encourage the thought

that she was growing up, in England but seemed to forget that fact here.

She tossed and turned herself back into a turbulent slumber and was suddenly very aware

of a tall, dark-haired, green-eyed, man, standing beside her on a balcony overlookingnothing. They (the man and she) were talking but he was having some difficulty telling

her something. You know, Alex, you really are beautiful and yet soso innocent. I

cant tell you how much it hurts me to say this. I just felt you ought to know first.

Ally, she said softly, Dont say it if its that bad. She put her hand on his shouldereven as her mind screamed at her to run away; she would not want to hear whatever it

was that he had to say. Her body had other ideas; every outward message she was

sending was of acceptance and she did not want accept.

I have to. Its better this way.

No! No its not. How could it be if you and I arent together?

So you understand. Im terribly sorry to end thiswhat we had, like this but I met

someone who I was hoping we could still be very good friends like

Im terribly sorry too Ally, she said cutting him off, But we can never be trulyfriends. Then she turned around and jumped off the balcony.

She woke with a jolt and felt a chill as she sat up exposing herself to the cool breezes. Atthat moment Bernadine entered, carrying a tray of breakfast things.

My lady you look like youve just seen a ghost. Is something wrong? Bernadine asked,

looking perturbed. It took a while for Alex to understand the question; she was still tryingto shake of the ugliness of her dream. No Bernie, everything is just fine. She

deliberated each word, trying more to convince herself than Bernadine. Come talk to me

about your brothers again. I dont feel quite up to breakfast right now.

Its freezing, Ally. Why do we have to get up this early? Carlos asked, rubbing hishands together. They were in an outdoor court similar to the indoor one.

You want to learn dont you? Well part of your lesson is discipline of your mind as well

as your body so get used to the cold; well be out here for a long time. Besides, you

should be used to the cold. England cant be much warmer than this.

Dont remind me, Carlos muttered. And why cant we do this in the indoor court?


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Well if I didnt try to dissuade, you what kind of brother would I be? Ally answered,

while he traced something in the dirt floor.

So youre doing this to dissuade me? Carlos asked, incredulous. Ally didnt answer butcontinued his tracing. He stepped back to asses his work then turned to Carlos and said,

Alright. This is a circle of combat. Within it are three smaller circles representingagility, courage and strength respectively

How come theyre?

Dont interrupt. The circles are eccentric because each skill represented is connected tothe other. To move from one circle to another, you must have mastered the skill it

represents.

The larger circle was about twelve feet in diameter. And each smaller circle was about

four feet in diameter. They intersected at certain points that were just big enough for a

man to stand in. Carlos looked at the circles for a while and asked, Are you joking?

Ally smiled then burst out laughing. A reluctant Carlos joined him. Then Ally stopped,

and, looking as serious as possible, said, No. He walked away towards a metal box he

had brought down with him leaving a bewildered Carlos staring at him. You really havea sick sense of humor you know, he said disgruntled.

I try, Ally replied a ghost of a smile still lingering on his face. He dragged the box back

to where Carlos was still standing and opened it. It was velvet on the inside withindentations in which lay five swords. My personal collection, Ally said, a note of

pride in his voice. You need to start with something new. Apparently you seem to be

more familiar with fathers swords than any other, He said this with his eyebrows raisedas though wondering how that could be possible. In any case, you are going to start withone of these since whatever you were doing with fathers swords isnt working. Carlos

flushed and a defiant expression crept into his eyes. And he mumbled, That wasnt my

fault. Ally got up, put his hand on his brothers shoulder and said, I know and weregoing to remedy that. He drew away and then said, First pick a sword. Dont just pick

one, play around with them, and see which one fits your hand and which one you can

move with. Ill be right back. He turned and walked briskly out of the court which,although it was outside, was enclosed.

Carlos knelt and ran his hands over each sword in turn. They glistened and looked as

though they had never been touched. He picked one up that was encrusted with emeralds.He smiled, they matched his eyes and the sword looked light and supple. He picked it upand was surprised at the weight. It was lighter than he had thought. He began to have

doubts, would the sword hold up to another of greater weight and size? He swung it and

felt a new respect for it. The sword cut through the air like a knife through butter. Therewas nothing wrong with it. He would just have to find out if it was strong enough. He

looked down at the other swords but the one in his hand seemed to outshine them all. It


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seemed to call to him. Take me, take me. He swung it through the air again enjoying the

sheer power emanating from it.

Good choice, Ally said, walking in, You obviously have good taste. Its a beautifulsword but most would reject it for fear of its being too small.

Would you have picked this sword? Carlos asked. No, Ally replied flatly, But then

Im used to heavier ones and wouldnt want to handicap myself in a fight. Alright, This

circle is where you start, He said indicating one of the circles, It represents agility andyou will have to learn basic thrusts and swings and be able to do them as fast as you

think. But then you should not have to think after a while, itll all become reflex. Ally

walked over to the box and picked up one of the swords. He turned to Carlos who was

standing in the circle of agility. Your stance is good which means we wont have towork on that. Carlos grinned. However, he continued, Your grip islets just say

your sword could be separated from you very easily. But well work on that. He walked

over to Carlos and said, You hold your sword like this, He indicated what he wanted

Carlos to do on his own sword. Your thumb and your other fingers will form a vee.

Chapter 4

The stair squeaked and Alex stilled her progress. She waited for the inevitable sound of

her sister coming out to foil her plans. It didnt come. She shrugged mentally and took aleap over the next three steps since she couldnt remember which one of them was the

second squeaker and didnt want to find out. Reaching the bottom of the stairs she made

her way towards the lower balcony she had named it that and after looking about her

twice she swung herself over the edge landing as she knew she would on the soft sandwith nothing but dusty slippers to show for her trip. Making her way to the stables she

told herself her trip had nothing whatsoever to do with a certain green-eyed lord.

xx

Senorita Alexandra what brings you here?

Alex smiled at the young hostler, Antonio, who she had become fast friends with once

she got to know him; he loved horses and as they were one of her passions she could

hardly dislike him. He was, however, very set in his ways which were constantly clashing

with hers.

What else but for a horse to ride into the city.

I cannot allow you to go without an escort. He said flatly. She groaned inwardly; this

was one of his ways which she always balked at.

I dont need an escort, Antonio. You forget that I am very capable of handling myself.


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Be that as it may I do not believe the city is safe enough for you to venture out alone.

Why must you be so difficult? She asked, with an exasperated smile on her face.

I would ask you the same question if I did not know that that quality, for you, is

inherent.

In that case there is really nothing to argue about, She said with an exaggerated sigh, Isuppose I may never experience the city.

Why must you always get your way? Antonio asked, ignoring the disconsolate

expression on her face.

Why must you always deny me my way? Was her rejoinder.

You really are very spoilt. He attempted a serious expression while a smile kept trying

to creep across his face.

Swinging herself up to sit on the ledge he leaned against, she said, You know thats the

secondno third time Ive heard that this week.

Perhaps there is some truth to it then.

She looked down at him and said, with what could have been a frown on her face,

Perhaps you, my father and my brother are all wrong.

Your father!? He laughed, What have you now?

Why is it that I must have done something?

Because your father is the most liberal man I have ever known and for him to attest toyour being spoilt, you must have done something.

How very deductive of you but I would rather not discuss it.

He would not have forbidden you from leaving the house, would he?

Howyou knew? You knew and you let me tryYou wretch! You absolute wretch!

I may be a wretch but Im one who will not have the wool pulled over his eyes.

Especially not by a slip of a girl like you. The smile in his eyes belied his serious tone soshe knew he might still let her go.

Well! I suppose theres nothing for it then. Im going to ask you straight up though I see

no reason why I have to ask at all. Can I please have a horse, preferably my horse, to go

into the city without having to worry about my father finding out?


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No. Apparently facial expressions were very deceptive.

No?

No.

You really are most annoying, you know.

I know.

For lack of any other topic to discuss, why in heavens name cant you just turn a blindeye while I, I repeat, I saddle a horse and go to the city, which may I remind you, is

hardly a great distance from here.

Ive told you before; the city is a very dangerous place

Oh Bull! She interjected, Ive gone to the city may times before now and I haventbeen robbed, raped or kidnapped.

Do not jest with serious matters. If I were to let you go and any of those things you have

just disdained were to happen to you, I could never forgive myself nor could your father

forgive me. I suggest you stop your rendezvous into the city if you have actually gonethere many times because one day you may come to regret your rashness.

You neednt get so bloody angry, Toni, I wouldnt put myself in harms waytoday was

justspecial.

One black eyebrow went up as he asked, Special?

Yes Toni, special. So special that I cannot even begin to tell you why.

I cannot let you disobey your father. Was his simple comment.

She sighed then said, Youre a good friend Antonio, but you really are too honest by

far.

Its one of my many faults. He said softly as he watched her leap down the ledge and

flit out of the stable.

xx

If I cant go on horseback I might as well go on foot; it isnt very far after all. She

thought this to herself as she made her way through the winding pseudo-shortcut which

was hidden by the tall grass that she had gotten lost in when shed found last Monday.She was already half way and she wasnt about to turn back. She found the door where

she knew it would be and as expected it was open. Going through it she was met with the


19/22

familiar smell of poppies. The field before stretched out with them. She ran across

knowing that she could be seen easily by anyone and reached the high wall that she had

been coming to everyday since she had learned of what was going on the other side.

It had been coincidence - or perhaps it had not been - that she had found out about the

fencing lessons and since then she had sneaked out of her house to watch. Shed made themistake of trying to get a horse for that purpose today but that was one mistake she

wouldnt make again. Besides, she thought as she climbed up the wall by the rungs on theside, she was here wasnt she? She reached the top - which, she had been surprised to

find, was wide enough for five men to stand comfortably side by side - and sat with her

feet dangling over the edge on her side. Hoping the lessons werent over, she turned tofind herself being observed by two sets of remarkably green eyes.

Chapter 5

The younger of them smiled then burst out laughing. No doubt at the incredulity of her

situation, Alex thought, her face burning. A large part of her wanted to jump down theway she had come but a small part of her wanted to brazen this out and stay. She looked

down at the tall grass wondering how much it would hurt if she were to actually jump.

Dont even think about it. His voice cut through the air like a whip. He had obviously

realized what she meant to do.

She looked back at him and shivered at the coolness of his gaze.

I wouldnt dream of it. She knew her false air of calm was misplaced but then it was allshe had.

Carlos. He snapped at his laughing brother. Please have Jeremiah bring a ladder here.

Carlos, still laughing, left the court. He stared at her for a while, his arms crossed acrosshis chest. She attempted a smile but failed miserably as his cold stare burned through her.

Do you mind telling me exactly why it is that youre sitting on a thirty foot wall?

Why I should have thought that obvious, sir.

It isnt. So why dont you enlighten me.

I merely wished to

Do you know how old that wall is?

Well no but


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Do you realize how easily it would have been for one of those rungs you found so

convenient to give way?

I believe they could have taken my weight.

A child half you size felt the same way and attempted the climb. One of them cameloose and he fell, dislocating his spine. Alex winced inwardly but the stubborn streak in

her refused to back down quietly. Why was he so angry anyway? It wasnt as though

shed forced him to help her down. She was almost sure she could have gotten down onher own and said so. He didnt reply and merely glanced behind him to check if his

brother had returned.

You know I do believe youre a very good teacher. Ive been watching you for quite

some time and I can safely say that youre almost as good as I am.

Ridiculous conversation no doubt but the silence was nerve racking and she had to

imagine what he intended once she got no once he got her down. He didnt even blinkand just stared at her.

You know Im getting quite giddy here so maybe I could just

If you move I will personally break every bone in your body.

Well that was a threat that bore consideration. Of course he wasnt being literal but it

might not be the most judicious thing to do, trying to get down on her own.

In other words I risk breaking every bone in my bodyor breaking every bone in my

body?

I see you understand. Was his only reply. At that moment, though, Carlos returned witha swarthy man of relative height. They held a ladder between them though Alex had a

slight suspicion the other man, (Jeremiah?) would have liked it better had he bourn the

implement himself. He didnt make any comment upon seeing her and she decide toremain silent herself. The ladder was placed against the wall and it reached even higher.

She glanced at it fretfully, shrugged then got up shakily and moved towards it. Having

climbed down the rungs on the wall many times, she got down with relative ease and,

upon reaching the ground, couldnt resist giving a bow. There had been such a silencebelow that shed felt like a performer of sorts. When she straightened herself, she faced

the Don Santiago and he wasnt smiling. Well what did you expect; he wasnt exactlysinging your praises while you were on the wall. What she didnt expect was for him tosuddenly grab her hand and drag her behind him out of the court. An that was exactly

what he did.

Youll forgive me if I was rather surprised to find you on that wall. He said with

surprising calmness. Youll also forgive me if I seemed overly protective and thusirrationally angry.


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Well she hadnt intended to go that far but

I hope too that youll also forgive me if I feel justified in asking you what Gods name

you thought you were doing up there.

You know I could tell you if you werent going quite so fast.

You know I think you could tell me this if your father was hereor we were with him. Iwouldnt want to tax him but I find Ive become extremely curious. I wouldnt mind

taking the time to

Dont! I mean you dont have to bring my father into this. She felt cold and she couldimagine the look on her fathers face if he learned about this. Or when he learned about

this. Hells fires! She couldnt let him find out.

Look,Don," She started. "Ally." He said bitingly. "Right. Ally, we can resolve this

without my father. You dont know what he would do

I doubt it would be anything you dont deserve.

She didnt say anything to that but plowed on trying, but only halfheartedly, to loosen his

grip on her wrist.

Were two adults

He laughed at that. I dont deny my being an adult, querida,but I wouldnt bet too much

on you. Hed stopped at the foot of the stairs and his eyes seemed to hold hers.

I could show you that Im a woman. She wasnt sure from whence that had come but,

standing on her toes, she leaned forward and kissed him. Hed let go of her hand,

doubtless, shocked. She took a step backwards, red from the roots of her hair to her toes.

He didnt seem affected but when her lips had touched his and shed brushed against hischest it was if the world had shook. Or perhaps it was just she who was shaking.

I hope, Alexandra, that that was not your attempt to convince me of your womanhood. I

could have sworn you were at least eighteen but now I wouldnt go past fifteen.

She glared at him, feeling herself turn an even darker shade of red.

Well ifyou would at least cooperate. He seemed to be trying to hold back laughterwhen she threw her arms around his neck and leaned forward for another kiss. This one

was different. She could feel him responding too. Could feel his mouth moving across

hers, his arms coming around her and his tongue fighting for an entrance into her stillclosed mouth. She let him and the heat spread through her. Alex moved closer and he

suddenly let go of her and moved away.


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She didnt swoon, shed never swooned in her life. But it was a close thing.

He was breathing as harshly as she and his eyes were alive.

Go home, Alexandra. His words didnt make sense to her but then she wasnt sure

anything would have right then.

What? She asked.

Go home. Go somewhere. Just go!

She shrank away from his words but after a moment, she turned and ran out the way

theyd come in.

A/N: Cant say Im not sorry but I had a really good reason for not updating. I had

examsok Im sorry. Nehoot heres chapter 5. Tell me what you think cause it would

really help. I know you know I know you know want to review.

Cheers!

Starox.

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Alex and Alez