Queen of Swords 2x04

[damar2525]

Queen of Swords

MONTOYA'S TRAP

Prologue
Colonel Montoya stared though the dust of his escort out the coach's window at the passing landscape. He and his twelve men from the Santa Helena garrison had made it safely to Monterey. The escort had proven strong enough to deter the Queen of Swords. He had been forced to deliver the taxes personally, just to make sure they got there. Not only that, but it was his own money paying the taxes. 'How can it be that a mere bandit queen can out maneuvering me' he wondered?
He brooded bitterly over his latest encounter with the Queen. He had thought Fenner and his formidable friend Roman Petroff were a good bet to kill the Queen. He had even bent them both to his will when Fenner tried to back out. He had actually thought the Queen was within his grasp when Roman had brought her to his office. Instead he had lost 800 reales to those two thieves and gained a public humiliation from the Queen.
Grisham had been left in charge of watching Santa Helena although he had barely managed to avoid disaster last time he was in command. Montoya wondered if Krane was still in Monterey prison or whether he had been executed by now. There should be no problems like that this time; he had left more than three-quarters of the garrison with Grisham. Not that he was concerned for Grisham's sake, but there was the matter of his remaining treasury. He was glad that he had moved the deeds for his land to the vault in the basement where he had stored his correspondence. Grisham wouldn't be a problem - he didn't know the combination to the vault. Montoya wondered bitterly if there is anyone left in town who didn't know the secret of the bookcase room.
The coach was passing down the narrow streets of the busy town and soon entered into the plaza. With shouts from his escort, the coach lurched to a stop outside the Viceroy's palace. It was time to face the Viceroy. Montoya climbed from his seat into the bright sunshine.
"Sergeant Gomez, have two men bring the chest and accompany me to my meeting."
"Yes sir Colonel, I will see to the stabling of the horses at the hotel and have them prepare your suite for the night".
"Very good Sergeant. Make sure they understand that I require dinner this evening and a private dinning room. And take special care of my baggage. Detail Private Mendez to attend me there. You and the rest of the men will find quarters in the garrison barracks for tonight, but there is to be no drinking. We leave tomorrow morning." There was no use tempting fate too much, and Montoya felt it unwise to leave Captain Grisham too long off his leash. His ambition could be a dangerous thing for both of them. It would do Grisham good if he arrived back a day early.
Montoya turned as a splendidly dressed Colonel wearing the regimentals of the infantry regiment of Castile strolled out of the building towards him. "Colonel Montoya, what an unexpected pleasure to see you. His Excellency the Viceroy was not aware of your impending visit."
Montoya smiled at the implied criticism. "Ah my dear Colonel Orvantes, you know I never let my personal comfort stand in the way of duty. I have come to deliver the taxes and discuss urgent business with his Excellency. As soon as you have written out a receipt for me please be so kind as to let him know of my arrival."
"By all means, my friend, if you will come with me." Orvantes gestured to one of his men and murmured something to him before leading Colonel Montoya up the stairs.
The two officers entered the building followed by the soldiers with the chest. Montoya walked beside his rival, well aware that Orvantes had pressed to be appointed commander of Santa Helena. Orvantes turned a cynical eye to Montoya before he gestured the way to his office. "We are of course glad to see you, Colonel. We were beginning to wonder when your payment was going to arrive. It is a trifle late, no?
Montoya knew that the payment was more than a trifle late but stated "it is for that reason that I have come to see his Excellency. I must discuss the problems facing my command"
Orvantes laughed as he lounged around his handsome desk to draw a piece of paper towards himself and scrawl a quick signature on the receipt. "Colonel, I think all of California has heard of the problem facing your commend. I gather that the bandit, the Queen of Swords is still eluding you? I am sure the Viceroy would be delighted to discuss this personally with you. I have already informed him of your arrival. Let me escort you to his office."
Montoya quietly seethed with anger as he followed the languid officer up the stairs and to the right.
********

[damar2525]

Act One, Scene 1
Augustin Ortiz was not a happy man. While it was true that he was the Viceroy of the whole of his Catholic Majesty's Alto California, it was not through any choice of his own. He had received his appointment to this backwater due to his wife's connections at court and he had accepted it due to his precarious financial position. He would far have preferred the governorship of one of the more lucrative colonies where the opportunities to fatten his purse were greater. Instead he had to make due with the slender pickings here in California.
Consequently, any impediment to lining his pocket irritated him greatly. Governor Ortiz looked up and gestured an impatient hand to come in as Orvantes knocked and then opened his office door. "So Senior Montoya, you have finally managed to deliver your taxes, a mere month and a half late."
"Yes, your excellency, this time I saw to it personally and the taxes now rest securely in the treasury. I had sent them on time to you but alas, they were stolen twice before today's delivery. It is for such reasons that I must draw your excellency's attention to the needs of my poor garrison. We are stretched to the limit doing our duties in Santa Helena. The area abounds with bandits and I need more men to guarantee the safety of the area."
An impatient frown crossed Governor Ortiz's face and he replied "Colonel Montoya, you have come here to tell me that one woman, the Queen of Swords, is more than you and your entire garrison can handle. Don't be preposterous! I cannot spare any more troops for your region and I will not send you more funds for you to raise your own. If you cannot deal with this menace, I have many others here who are impatient for the chance to do so." As he spoke he glanced significantly at Colonel Orvantes.
Not the least disconcerted, Montoya paused to ease a crease from his coat's sleeve and then proceeded. "I must remind your Excellency that while it is true that the Queen of Swords still remains at large, my command has dealt with many other bandits. I personally was able to rid the colony of El Serpiente. I believe that he had caused no little trouble around Monterey eight months ago, with no one here able to catch him." As he spoke, Montoya looked blandly at Colonel Orvantes. "Only last month I sent to your prison the American freebooter, Krane. He made the mistake of crossing swords with me and paid the price," said Montoya grandly, ignoring any mention of Captain Grisham's or the Queen of Swords role in Krane's capture.
Ortiz waved an irritated hand at Montoya. "I am well aware of these facts Colonel, but we were discussing your failure to capture the Queen of Swords. If it weren't for your other successes you wouldn't be standing here in front of me as the commander of Santa Helena. If you want to keep your position then no more mistakes. You will deal with the Queen of Swords and send her here for justice or I will have you here as my garrison stable master! There is no more money, you must make do with your present resources."
Montoya swallowed his disappointment then continued, "of course I will deal with the Queen. It is merely a matter of time before she makes a fatal mistake. I was not aware previously of your Excellency's desire to have her brought here alive. Surely her death would serve the purpose as well as her capture?"
Ortiz tapped his finger on his desk as he spoke. "Colonel, you must be aware that even in Spain there is talk of this Queen of Swords. They press me to know who she is. There are even hints that they may want her sent to Spain to answer questions as to how this colony is run." Ortiz looked significantly at Montoya. "I don't know if this Queen has any influence with the government in Spain. It could be she is a person of significance and has allies at home. I want to talk to her myself and discover the true state of affairs. I certainly don't want her identity to be public knowledge before that. It could be very dangerous to our positions here. I trust I make myself clear?" he said inquiringly. "You bring her here alive and with her identity concealed. No one is to know who she is. By that I mean your soldiers as well as the public. If we can keep even her capture quiet until I have interrogated her, so much the better. I am not a fool and did not get to this position by taking unnecessary risks."
"I will of course do everything in my power to do as you wish, Senor" Montoya answered. "I will raise the reward to1,000 reales for her capture and only 500 reales for her death, but I can not guarantee that I will capture her alive."
Governor Ortiz chuckled in amusement. "Colonel Montoya, you can't even guarantee that you will keep your position at the rate you are progressing. As I said, I much prefer her to be alive, but if she is dead see to it that no one knows who she is. Now Colonel, I have more pressing matters to deal with than your failures, so I will excuse you." With those words the Governor turned back to the papers on his desk.
Montoya gritted his teeth but saluted and turning on his heel walked out in front of Orvantes. Aside from the successful delivery of the tax money, the trip was a total failure.
Colonel Orvantes allowed himself a slight smile of amusement. It was good to see his arrogant rival humbled. He had little doubt that Montoya was not up to the task of capturing the Queen. 'Soon I will be in charge at Santa Helena,' he told himself, 'with the opportunities to build my fortune. And to think I will owe it all to a woman!'
Montoya's thoughts were as black as his frown as the two exited the building onto the busy plaza. The square was thronged with shoppers intent on bargains. Travelers on horseback carefully picked past market stalls, pushing their skittish horses through the crowd. Rambunctious children ran laughing and screaming as they played their games oblivious to the traffic around them. Montoya stared haughtily at the scene. A familiar figure caught his eye. It couldn't be, yet there was no mistaking the huge man cutting across the square.
Montoya turned to Orvantes. "Quickly, I need you to fetch a squad of soldiers. I have just spotted a criminal who must be apprehended."
Colonel Orvantes looked startled for a moment. "Where is the man?"
Being careful not to stare and draw attention to himself, Montoya indicated Roman with a nod of his head. "That gargantuan man there is Roman Petroff, who is wanted for theft."
Orvantes's glaze settled on the enormous figure. A slight smile crossed his face before he turned to Montoya. "Ah Colonel, I am sorry to disappoint you once again. That man is not Roman Petroff."
"What do you mean not him, do you think I am blind? I recognized him immediately" stated Montoya.
"An understandable mistake Colonel, one that I made myself. We are well aware of Roman Petroff's undesirable activities and would love to have him a guest in our prison. However that man is his brother, Mikhail."
"How can you be so sure?"
"Because Mikhail was arrested in error three weeks ago and lodged in the Monterey jail. We believed that we had captured Roman Petroff and no one paid the least credence to his claims that he wasn't. However we received irrefutable proof two days ago of his identity. He was in jail here when Roman and his English accomplice robbed the bank in San Luis Obispo. Unfortunately Mikhail's stay in prison has ruined him financially. He had a large herd of wild horses when we arrested him. They have all disappeared and since his release he has been trying to scrape together enough funds to finance another horse hunting trip."
"I cannot believe that is not the same man. The resemblance is truly astonishing" stated a startled Montoya.
"That is because they are twins. They are both men of enormous strength," said Orvantes ruefully. "When I arrested him it took eight of my men to bring him in."
"I have a score to settle with his brother. Perhaps Roman will come to help his brother" speculated Montoya thoughtfully.
Orvantes laughed outright. "My poor Colonel Montoya, Roman will visit Mikhail when hell freezes over. Not only has there been bad blood between the brothers for years, but now Mikhail blames his brother for his arrest and financial ruin."
Montoya stiffened and drew himself upright. He was not used to being laughed at and didn't find it to his taste. "I must bow to your greater knowledge of the man. It's a pity that it is so. I would dearly like to see his brother in chains. Now if you will excuse me, Colonel, I believe I will seek out my lodgings for the night" Yet even as he spoke Montoya's glaze rested thoughtfully on Mikhail Petroff's figure.
Orvantes gave a slight bow and replied, "by all means Colonel. I would invite you to dinner but I am on duty this evening. Perhaps next time we meet I could be so fortunate as to have your company." Orvantes' teeth gleamed as he smiled his farewell
Montoya merely returned the bow and turned to leave. 'Yes my friend, you would like to meet again,' he thought, 'because you think you will be taking my command. But it will take a slyer man than you to outfox me.' Turning ideas over in his mind, Montoya began to see how this situation could be put to his profit.
********************
Act One, Scene 2
Montoya pushed back his chair from the table. The inn had put its best efforts into his meal and while not up to the standards of his cook at home it was passable enough. He glanced round the room and noted that the brandy decanter with two glasses had been brought in as he had requested. He had chosen to take his meal in the solitary splendor of his suite for he was expecting company and desired privacy. A small frown of concentration knit his brow but otherwise he looked his usual urbane self. He had changed from his military dress and was wearing a dark civilian coat with his cravat neatly tied.
Whatever his thoughts, they were interrupted by a discreet knock on the door. "Come in," he commanded. The door swung inward to reveal a hulking figure. Mikhail Petroff walked in as Private Mendez carefully closed the door behind him.
"Welcome, Senor Petroff. I am so glad that Sergeant Gomez was able to extend my invitation to you. Please come in and take a seat." Montoya was all charm as he gestured to the other chair at the table. "May I pour you some Brandy?"
Mikhail looked carefully around the room as he advanced towards the table. The resemblance to his brother was truly remarkable. They both stood 6 foot 4 inches tall, were clean shaven with short hair and had bodies bulging with muscle. Their features appeared identical. But where as Roman Petroff's demeanor commanded attention when he walked in a room, Mikhail's was less assured. Plainly he was a little uncomfortable with the situation.
"I wasn't aware that it was an invitation," Mikhail answered carefully.
Montoya frowned. "I am sorry, I must speak with Sergeant Gomez tomorrow. I thought I had made it clear that you were to be my guest. Please excuse my Sergeant's clumsiness. You are of course free to go but I hope that you will stay. After all we have something in common."
Mikhail approached the table puzzlement writ large upon his face. "Do we, Senor Colonel? I wasn't aware of even knowing you before this evening. What is it that we have in common?"
Montoya waved this aside. "We both have suffered losses at the hands of your brother, Roman."
Mikhail's face darkened and he said, "I don't even want to say his name. Thanks to him I spent three weeks in Monterrey prison. The profits from all spring were tied up in my horse herd and that is gone too. He has caused me nothing but trouble and not for the first time."
"Ah, it is always the way with wrong doers" sympathized Montoya. "They don't care who they injure, even their own relatives. Your brother stole from me 800 reales and after I had befriended him and offered work. But come, take a seat and try some of this brandy."
Mikhail carefully lowered his frame into the seat opposite Montoya. Satisfied that it could take his bulk, he reached out and gingerly accepted the brandy snifter from Montoya.
A charming smile lit up Montoya's features as he noted that while Mikhail was physically his twin's double, he lacked the bold confidence that characterized Roman.
"Thank you Colonel. It is most kind of you to offer. I didn't receive anything like this in prison and since my release I haven't been able to afford a decent drink," Mikhail said in his thickly accented Spanish.
Montoya smiled. "It is for that reason that I invited you here tonight. I think that I may be able to help you recoup your losses. As I said before, your brother stole a large sum of money from me. Unfortunately he and his friend Fenner have removed themselves from the local of my Pueblo and I cannot find them. However, their accomplice the Queen of Swords still remains nearby. I think that you will be able to help me catch her."
Mikhail looked up, a spark of interest in his eye. "Of course I'm interested in anything that can set me back on my feet again but I don't see how I can help you. I don't know the Queen of Swords and have no idea where she is. Besides which, it is my brother that I wish to see punished."
"I assure you, Senor, your brother will be quite unhappy if we catch the Queen of Swords. There is no need for you to find her. I intend that we make it so she finds you. I should also mention that the reward for her capture alive is 1,000 reales."
Mikhail choked on the sip of brandy he was taking. Montoya stepped forward and clapped him on his back. Regaining his breath Mikhail sat up straighter and replied. "Indeed, Senor Colonel, that is enough money to interest any man! The chance to earn a fortune and stick a spoke in my brother's wheel. He has caused me so much grief, it would be a pleasure to cause him some. But what am I to do?"
Montoya said carefully, "something that should be easy for you - be yourself. Or perhaps I should say be your brother Roman who looks just like you. If you are agreeable I will have you return with me to Santa Helena. Outwardly you will be my prisoner, Roman Petroff. I have no doubt that the Queen of Swords will receive word of this and I have equally little doubt that she will hasten to rescue you. Once she has set foot into the trap you have merely to take her unaware and the reward is yours."
A concern crossed Mikhail's mind. "I have heard of this Queen of Swords. I am no swordsman like my brother. Even if she takes me with her how could I ever capture her?"
Montoya reached over and picked up Mikhail's hand. "This is all the weapon you will need. Once you lay a hand on her she will be as putty in your hands. Until then she must suspect nothing. I will have Sergeant Gomez obtain clothing such as your brother wears and only he and Private Mendez will know who you are. I suggest that you wait until you are clear of the jail and town before trying to take her. She will naturally be most on her guard in the jail and town. If during your rescue my soldiers capture her, you will still receive a share of the reward. But don't delay too long, it would not do for her to suspect your identity."
All doubts now eased Mikhail eagerly stood up. "Senor Colonel, you have got yourself some live bait. Consider the Queen as good as trapped!"

[damar2525]

Act Two, Scene 1
Grisham looked around the plaza of Santa Helena. He was standing on the balcony of Colonel Montoya's home enjoying one of the colonel's cigars. Things couldn't be better right now. Montoya was away until tomorrow, the town was securely patrolled by a large number of troops and he would be seeing Vera in three hours. 'Life should always be this good,' he thought. He was born to enjoy the life of the wealthy. The unwelcome idea that this was only temporary intruded on his enjoyment. There had to be a way to gain the riches he wanted. Montoya was doing well here but he took delight in preventing Grisham from sharing in the money. A sharp Gypsy word caught his ear and he turned to see Tessa Alvarado being driven into town by Marta her servant. Marta expertly flicked her whip as the buggy horse tried to shy at the sight of two small boys wrestling in the dust and the two proceeded across the square.
Tessa Alvarado is rich, but it was Vera that he desired. The thought of his conversation with Vera before her kidnapping crossed his mind. What had she said? Something like it was lovers are wonderful but husbands are forever. Let's face it he was never going to get Vera permanently. She would be no more unavailable to him whether he was married or not. He might as well marry Tessa Alvarado and enjoy her wealth. His gaze returned to Tessa as she swung gracefully down from the buggy. She was a beauty and had no favored suitors. True she was flighty and empty headed but that could be a bonus. She would be easier to impress and more trusting. One could feel almost sorry for the girl. Montoya had only been prevented by sheer bad luck on a couple of occasions from obtaining her land. 'I would be doing her a favour by making her my wife and protecting her,' he told himself. Perhaps he could cut his cake and eat it too. There was no saying that Vera might even continue their liaison
He watched as Tessa and Marta walked to Dr. Helm's office and entered. He decided he would make a determined effort to win her hand. Stubbing out his cigar a thought uneasily crossed his mind. He better be discreet about this. Vera might not be too happy at first and could take awhile to come round. He would cross that bridge when he came to it. At least by then he would have the money to pay the toll. Walking smoothly, Grisham ambled down the stairs and entered the town square.
****************
Act Two, Scene 2
Dr. Helm swerved abruptly to avoid the suddenly opening front door. The tray he was carrying tilted dangerously and he watched helplessly as the pestle, mortar and various chemicals slid over the edge.
"Bloody hell!" he shouted as he dived unavailingly to catch the pestle.
Tessa Alvarado stood staring at the chaos she had created, Marta peering inquisitively over her shoulder. "Why Doctor I had no idea that you were standing there. I am sorry that you have created such a mess."
"I didn't create it, you did, Senorita. If I have asked you once I have asked you a thousand times, will you please knock before entering."
Tessa's smile if anything became sweeter. "Oh, didn't I knock? I must have forgot this time. Marta has brought some of her salve for you. Where would you like us to put it?"
Dr. Helm's teeth ground audibly. "You may put it there over on my work bench. But please be careful to avoid the chemicals on the floor. And don't touch anything" he added too late as Tessa swept clear a space on the crowded bench.
"I didn't touch anything, I merely moved it. Marta, you can place your pot here," she said indicating to the cleared area. "I must say Doctor that you could keep your office a bit tidier. I would never let my home get into this state."
"No doubt I could," replied Dr. Helm, "but I find my time more profitably spent making medicine for my patients. Perhaps you would be able to clean it up?"
"An excellent idea, Dr. Helm, but I need Marta to help with the shopping. After all the time she spent making the salve for you I don't see that I can spare her now" Tessa said brightly. "We only stopped by to help you."
Dr. Helm visibly caught hold of his breath and told himself to count to ten slowly before replying. "You are too kind, Senorita, but I meant you could clean it up and let Marta do the shopping."
Tessa looked surprised. "But Doctor, I have to be there to tell her what to buy."
Dr. Helm sighed and admitted defeat. "Of course you would have to, how silly of me. Well, don't let me take any more time from your busy schedule." With these words he gently but insistently herded Tessa and Marta back out the door.
Tessa turned on the front step, "yes, it is good of you to realize how little time there is in my day. After I get up at noon, the day just seems to fly by. Come, Marta, let's get to the market before all the fruit is gone. You know how it disappears so fast." With these words Tessa set out across the plaza, her basket swinging from her arm.
"I will be right there, Senorita" Marta replied. "I just want to give Dr. Helm some instructions on how to use the salve."
Helm glowered at Marta. "I will never understand how you could have raised such a scatterbrained dilettante," he said.
"I'm sorry, Doctor. I didn't mean for my salve to add to your troubles. I just want to apologize for Tessa. It is all the fault of her losing her mother so young," she added helpfully. "Now I really must go. Hasta Leugo, Doctor."
Helm watched in frustration as the two women picked there way across the plaza. It was beyond him what Tessa Alvarado could find to do in day, since doubtless it was done for her. With an impatient sigh he closed the door and went in search of the dustpan.
*************
Act Two, Scene 3
Tessa's eyes were brimming with mischief by the time Marta caught up with her. "Has the good Doctor recovered from my visit?" she asked.
"Tessa, how could you do that? You have created hours more work for the poor man."
Tessa laughed outright. "It serves him right. Last time I was in town all the good doctor could do was lecture me on not supporting Don Hidalgo's stand against Montoya's tax increase. If he told me one more time that a woman needs a man to run her financial affairs, I was contemplating returning as the Queen and robbing him blind."
"Shush Tessa, don't mention that name here in public. Here comes Captain Grisham."
"Ladies, what a delight to see you in town," said Grisham as he swept a bow to Tessa. Intent on furthering his ambitions he added, "let me help you with your parcels. You shouldn't be obliged to carry a heavy basket."
Tessa looked at him in some surprise. "This is a honor, Captain, you don't usually escort me on my shopping."
"Only when my duty has prevented me. But whenever I have the time I am delighted to be of assistance," said Grisham gallantly.
Tessa smiled graciously and forbore from pointing out the numerous times he had refrained in the past. She was spared the necessity of answering him by a shout from the sergeant of the guard.
"Capitan Grisham, Colonel Montoya's coach is approaching."
Grisham looked startled. "I'm sorry ladies, but it appears that duty once again has come between us. I must see to the Colonel's arrival," he said. Mentally, he was running his mind over the condition of the Colonel's office as he had last left it. Had he put everything back in place? He had better check and he moved hurriedly towards Montoya's villa. He was, however, too late for Montoya's coach and outriders were already sweeping in through the town gate.
A confused babble of voices arose as the dust from the coach settled down around him. "Captain Grisham" a sharp voice barked out. Grisham walked to the coach devoutly hoping everything was in place in Montoya's office. "Good to have you back, Colonel, I trust you had a pleasant journey?"
Montoya looked sardonically from the coach's window. "Ah, Captain Grisham, so happy to have me back early I see. The journey was most tedious but it has brought me some good fortune. I have a prisoner for you to take charge of."
Across the square Marta's breath caught sharply in her throat. "Tessa, look!" she said as she tightly grasped her arm. "It's Roman."
Tessa peered intently as the shackled man was lead from the coach's interior. There was no mistaking that huge frame cloaked in his black duster.
"Tessa, you must rescue him. Montoya will certainly have him killed after what he has done."
"But Marta, they are going to be expecting the Queen."
"It doesn't matter. The Queen will find a way, she always does," said Marta urgently. "Let's get home and you can think of a plan."
*****************

[damar2525]

Act Three, Scene 1
Captain Grisham watched with satisfaction as three men pushed Roman Petroff into the cell and the door closed behind him. "You know it really doesn't pay to cross Colonel Montoya. It's too bad that you are learning the lesson the hard way," he said with a devilish grin.
Mikhail Petroff glowered at him from the back of the cell. "Do you think this jail can hold me? This is just a little shack, Captain."
"You won't be going anywhere, my giant friend. Better men than you have found that this jail is more than strong enough. Besides which, those shackles aren't coming off your hands anytime soon. I will see to it personally that neither the Queen of Swords or your little friend Fenner interferes with your stay. You know, the Colonel was really quite upset about your last visit. He is really looking forward to your execution."
Mikhail was quiet for a moment before walking to the cell cot and stretching out. "Just when do you think this execution will be taking place, Captain? I haven't even had my trial yet," he asked in his accented Spanish.
Grisham smile lent good humor to his face. "You are lucky there. The Colonel has his music party tomorrow night and he will be tied up with the preparations. I think he wants it to be extra special. And of course, he wants to tell the Dons of his latest success and let them know he is not a man to be trifled with. That means you will have your trial and execution in two days from now, rather than one. Sweat dreams," he said and jauntily walked down the isle to the guardroom at the front.
"Sergeant, are the two guards posted outside the cell window and is the rear door locked and barred?" he asked.
"Si, Capitan. And I have a detail of six men posted in the building across the street as you ordered."
"I'm sure the Queen will come for her large friend tonight. If she does, it will be her last visit. Tonight I am going to stay here in the guardroom. You will join the men across the street and keep alert for my signal. With the back of the jail watched the only way in will be through the front. Remember, your job is to make sure no one gets back out the front door. We will take her before she can even release the prisoner."
"Si, Capitan. But don't you want some men to stay here with you?"
"No, you idiot. It can't look too discouraging or she won't try. Give me that private's jacket and take my Captain's coat back to my quarters." Grisham shrugged into the soldier's coat and reached out for a shako and crammed it down on his head. "There, now I will appear as the only guard in the building. You keep alert or I will have your stripes. The moment the Queen enters the building you and your squad seal off the front door and take her." Nodding his dismissal, Grisham settled himself into the chair behind the desk. Vera would be disappointed but it couldn't be helped. He had a lot of past scores to settle.
******************
Act Three, Scene 2
It was well past midnight and it would be light in a couple of hours. Grisham yawned as he sat behind the desk. Damn, this was more tedious than he thought. It was beginning to look like the Queen wouldn't be coming.
Back in the cells, Mikhail was still awake. Montoya was certain that the Queen would make her move within the first day of his capture. As he said, she couldn't be sure of how long she had to rescue him before his 'execution'. A tiny sound caught his attention. Starting in surprise, he realized that a key was turning the lock of the jail's rear door. Fascinated, he watched as the door was pushed slightly inwards before coming to rest against the bar. He glanced down the hall towards the guardroom but apparently the sounds of the intrusion had not reached there. There was a slight scratching sound then a slender string tied around a ring worked its way through the doorframe above the bar and was lowered rapidly to the floor. A knife blade flickered under the door and carefully hooked the ring back out of sight. An instant later the string grew taut and snubbed up against the door bar. He watched as the bar rose quietly upward from its bracket and the door swung silently inward on well-greased hinges.
The dark clad figure of the Queen of Swords ghosted noiselessly into the aisle and up to his cell. Once again a key was produced and the cell door swung open. "How did you get the keys?" he whispered in a hoarse voice.
"I've been in and out of this jail so often, I thought I better make my own set. It's really quite handy. Now let me see those cuffs," she answered in a soft whisper. In her hand was a thin flexible strip of metal. She inserted this into the lock on one manacle and worked intently for a moment. With a loud click the cuff sprung open and within another minute the second followed suit. Mikhail stood up and shrugged the kinks out of his shoulders.
"My my my, where in the world did you learn to do that?" came Captain Grisham's voice. The Queen looked up startled. In the cell doorway, with a pistol pointed nonchalantly, at her stood Captain Grisham.
"I started night school awhile ago," the Queen answered, standing up with one hand resting on her hip.
"Well you must be their honor role student," Grisham responded.
Intent on his prey, Grisham walked closer. Unexpectedly, Mikhail stretched out a long arm and his hand grasped Grisham's wrist. With no visible effort his hand tightened slightly and Grisham went a shade of white as his suddenly nerveless fingers released the pistol. "Now its not polite to point," the giant lectured gently.
Grisham winced as Mikhail released his hand and tried to rub feeling back into it. "This won't do you any good," he said. "You must have disposed of the guards around back but you will find your retreat back the way you came blocked. I took the precaution of stationing a squad to watch those guards. Step outside that door and they will fill you full of bullet holes" he added triumphantly.
"Most thoughtful of you, Captain, but we are leaving by the front door," said the Queen. "And before you try to yell I must tell you that your Sergeant and his men across the road will find that they are locked in."
It was Grisham's turn to look surprised. Not heeding the Queen's advice he shouted "Now Sergeant, come now!"
Slipping her hand onto her sheathed sword, the Queen stepped forward and shot the hilt straight under Grisham's jaw. His eyes rolled upwards in their sockets and he collapsed gracelessly on the floor.
"Come on, Roman," said the Queen. "We only have a few minutes before those fools across the street break out." Sword in hand, the Queen led the way into the front guardroom. Mikhail spared one glance for Grisham then quickly followed. Exiting onto the street he could hear excited questions being shouted from the back of the jail. "This way, I have horses waiting for us," urged the Queen.
Loud cursing erupted from the building across from the jail as Sergeant Gonzales roared "break the damn door down if it's locked!" Ineffectual thuds were heard as the two fugitives sped down a darkened alley. Soon the two reached their horses and the sound of hoof beats retreated into the night.
Colonel Montoya strode unhurriedly onto the scene, a pistol dangling from one hand. The door of the house suddenly burst open with four soldiers sprawling down on top of it. Sergeant Gonzales and two others trampled over them looking frantically up and down the street. Grisham staggered from the interior of the jail, one hand nursing a swollen jaw.
"I see, Capitan, that you have the situation well in hand as usual," stated Colonel Montoya. Grisham rolled a bleary eye at the Colonel and struggled to speak. The Colonel waved him to silence. "No, Capitan, spare me the explanations." Montoya looked at Grisham and thoughtfully stroked his beard. "Somehow I am not surprised that you failed tonight. It will be light in two hours and I want you to take a detachment and follow their trail. Come see me when your head is clear and I will explain why you will not catch-up with the Queen and Senor Petroff. Unlike you, Capitan, I have a backup plan." With these words Montoya left the puzzled Grisham to pull himself together and returned to his home.
*********************

[damar2525]

Act Four, Scene 1
It was well past daylight but the Queen continued to press the horses deeper into the hills. Mikhail occasionally glanced over their back trail, but no pursuit was visible. Montoya had said he would have Grisham and his soldiers follow them to help with the Queen's capture. Mikhail had a shrewd idea that if Grisham were to help he might have trouble claiming the full reward on the Queen's head. However he wasn't going to capture anyone while they were on horseback.
"My horse cannot keep up this pace much longer," he called to the Queen. "You might not have noticed but I weigh a little bit more than you."
The Queen pulled Chico up and looked appraisingly at Mikhail's horse. The animal wasn't totally winded but it could definitely use the rest. She looked back and could see nothing on their trail. "I know a place about 20 minutes from here. It has cover and a view over our back trail, plus there is water there for the horses. We will rest there and I can catch up on what's happened to you."
Mikhail nodded grateful acceptance. You had to hand it to the girl; so far she hadn't presented him with one opportunity. It was typical that she would choose a resting-place that would allow them to catch sight of any pursuit long before it caught up with them. He hoped Grisham wouldn't blunder into sight but rather would have the sense to hang back and watch.
A few more minutes of riding brought them to a slight bushy rise. Mikhail swung stiffly out of the saddle as the Queen sprung down and led the horses to a seep of water. The horses gratefully sipped water but they were left saddled and bridled ready for any emergency. The Queen said "I'm sorry, Roman, but I didn't bring anything for you to eat."
"Don't let it bother you. It is far better to be free and hungry than be in town eating the last meal of a condemned man," said Mikhail with a broad grin. "Come here and let me thank you for the rescue. I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw that jail door swing open."
The Queen strolled up to where Mikhail was standing, a half smile of amusement curling her lips. "Did you think I would leave you for Montoya to hang? I thought you knew me better than that. By the way, where is Fenner? I would have thought he would have kept you out of trouble."
Mikhail started absent-mindedly rubbing his left wrist where it had been chafed by the manacles. "Fenner wasn't with me when Montoya captured me. He had some business of his own concerning a lady friend and had left for a week or two."
"Is that wrist bothering you? I have some salve for wounds in my saddlebag. Let me put some on that." The Queen walked up to Chico as she spoke and briefly rummaged in her saddlebag. Taking out a small jar she walked back up to Mikhail. "Push up your sleeve a little so I can get at it" she ordered. Mikhail meekly did as he was told and the Queen spread a little of the ointment on the wound. As she finished, she turned her back to take the salve back to her horse. Without warning, two strong arms encircled her from the rear, lifting her off her feet and pinning her arms to her sides.
"Roman, what the hell are you doing!" she yelled. Struggling madly, she attempted to kick back with her feet.
"Now just behave and you won't get hurt" grunted the giant holding her. Seemingly without effort he took the Queen and tucked her under his left arm, freeing his right hand. He pulled the Queen's rapier from her waist and cast it down then plucked her main gauche dagger from her boot.
Tessa's face was turning red with effort but she couldn't get her hands free and her legs had nothing to kick at. She felt Roman's grip shift yet again and she found herself being placed face down on the dirt. Keeping a knee on her back, Roman pulled her hands behind her and deftly lashed them together. She felt her ankles drawn together and then they too were bound. Roman turned her over and sat her against a nearby rock. More cord was produced and wrapped around her body further pinning her arms to her sides.
"Roman, have you gone utterly mad?" she sputtered.
Squatting down to her level Mikhail replied, "firstly, I am not Roman and secondly I am perfectly sane."
The Queen's jaw dropped in surprise. Swallowing she asked, "but you are Roman, I know what you look like."
"Let me introduce myself. I am Mikhail Petroff, Roman's twin brother."
"Why are you doing this" Tessa asked. "I am a friend of Roman's. He will be furious with you."
"I am doing this for two reasons. The first is the 1,000 gold reales I will get from Montoya when I turn you in. The second is to pay back my brother for all the grief he has caused me. I hope he will be miserable over your capture."
As he spoke Mikhail straightened up and looked over their back trail. Noting his glance the Queen asked, "are you expecting company?"
"Oh, Captain Grisham is out there somewhere, perhaps even in sight. I think that tired or not I better get you back to Santa Helena before the Captain gives Colonel Montoya a reason not to pay the whole reward."
"I see that you are beginning to get an appreciation of Colonel Montoya's character" Tessa said swiftly. "He will never pay the reward to you so you might as well release me."
Mikhail looked pained. "Colonel Montoya is a gentleman. He warned me that if I had help with your capture he would be obliged to split the reward. Why do you think I waited until we were out here?" Mikhail turned to the horses and gathered them together, carefully attaching the Queen's rapier to his saddle and placing her main gauche in a bag. He tied Chico's reins to his horse's saddle then bent down and untied the Queen's ankles. She was given no chance for escape since he once again picked her bodily up and set her down in Chico's saddle. Taking more cord from a pocket he tied each foot to a stirrup. "We wouldn't want you to fall out of the saddle on the trip to town" he said cheerfully.
"Why, how kind of you to be so thoughtful," replied the Queen ironically. "I can't remember that last time I was so well taken care of."
Mikhail looked at her. "You see it is nothing personal with me. I just need the money. It's only my brother that I have a score to settle with."
"Well, I'm glad you explained all that," the Queen answered. "It makes everything so much better for me."
Mikhail ignored this last comment and stepping into his stirrup, swung himself up onto his horse. "I would suggest that you save your breath. We have to trot now if we are to make town by nightfall."
Tessa sat upright in the saddle and tested her bonds as Chico obediently followed Mikhail's horse. There was not the slightest give in them and with her feet tied to the stirrups she couldn't attempt to slip away once they were in brush. Like it or not, it would seem that she was going to Santa Helena.
Act Four, Scene 2
"Colonel, I can't see why we are paying taxes if every time a criminal is arrested they break out of jail. It's not a jail, it's a free meal with bed for the night!" Gaspar Hidalgo had worked himself up to a fine passion as he cornered Montoya near the dance floor. The audience of Dons gathered round him nodded approvingly as he made each point
"Don Hidalgo, please let us put aside that unfortunate incident for now. This is an evening for the ladies to enjoy themselves. We can discuss business at some other time." Giving Gaspar no chance to continue, Montoya turned to the small band and signaled for them to strike up a waltz.
His musical evenings were quite popular and he usually enjoyed them. He had promised to favor the company with a few airs on his violin but the uncertainty of his plans' outcome was destroying all his comfort. He was in a fever of impatience to hear what had happened. 'It was just like Grisham not to be back yet,' thought Montoya irritably.
He stepped back to give the dancers more room when his attention was claimed by an urgent whisper. "Senor Colonel." Montoya turned away from his guests to see Sergeant Perez standing to attention. "Yes what is it?" he said sharply.
Sergeant Perez's eyes looked meaningfully at the crowd and he quietly replied "Your guest from last evening has returned and wishes to speak to you. Would you please come this way sir."
It could only mean that Mikhail Petroff had returned. Montoya's heart quickened with anticipation as he followed the Sergeant down the hall to the back kitchen. He strode eagerly into the room only to stop suddenly with disappointment. Mikhail Petroff looked up from his chair at the table where he sat alone.
"What are you doing back here?" asked Montoya abruptly. "You are supposed to return only with the Queen of Swords." A hopeful thought occurred to him, "does Grisham have her?"
Mikhail looked amused as he stood up towering over Montoya's slight figure. "I had to come back for supplies" he replied in his thick Spanish. "Please come with me and I will show you what I need." With these words he led Montoya out the kitchen door to the rear courtyard.
Montoya followed impatiently. What supplies could the fool need? The important thing had been to stay with the Queen. An angry utterance died on his lips as he saw Mikhail standing beside a tethered horse. In the saddle sat the Queen of Swords, a gag tied round her month, her hands bound behind her. Her dark eyes blazed with spirit but otherwise she was still.
Mikhail grinned widely at Montoya. "I didn't think you would want everyone in the house to know she is here," he said. "Besides, I do need a supply of gold now."
Montoya walked forward raptly to the Queen's horse. "A supply that you shall have my friend" he answered. "Well my dear," he addressed the Queen, "I seem to have you at a disadvantage. Not so chatty this time. I think it's time to escort you to my special guestroom. Sergeant Perez," Montoya called into the house.
Mikhail started to untie the Queens feet from the stirrups as Perez hurried outside only to come to halt with a loud gasp as he beheld the Queen. "Should I take her to the jail now?" Mikhail inquired.
"No, not the jail. She has been in and out of that building like an open market. Sergeant Perez, get your squad and follow me." Perez called for the four man guard detail as Montoya strode back into the house. Mikhail and the Sergeant hustled the Queen forward in his wake. Montoya caught up a lantern and lit it as he crossed the kitchen and pulled open a large door. Behind it, steps descended into darkness. Holding the lantern up high Montoya started down the steps.
Tessa had no choice but to follow him as Mikhail prodded her in the back. Her wrists were sore from the binding wrapped around them and her mouth was a dry as dust from the gag. She carefully walked down the stairs, not wishing to trip with her arms tied. Reaching the foot she looked around at the capacious storage cellars of the villa. There was a hodge podge of unused furnishings and implements in the center of the room. To one side of these were stores of root vegetables, garlic cloves and dried pepper strings. To the other side large sacks of rice and flour were piled. Across the far wall was the villa's wine storage, bottles piled into a row of arched alcoves build into the wall. She watched as Montoya walked up to the center alcove and grasped the wooden frame built into it. His hand seemed to fumble for a second then the whole rack of wine swung outward.
Tessa's eyes widened in surprise. It would appear that her hacienda wasn't the only one with secrets in its wine cellar. Montoya entered the darkened alcove and produced a key from his pocket. He inserted it into a heavy iron bound door that occupied the whole of the back wall and then shot back the extra bolt. The door creaked slowly inward to reveal a stone walled room. Mikhail's large hand thrust her forward and she stumbled into the room. The room appeared empty aside from a large safe along one sidewall. There were no other furnishings to relieve the stark appearance of the chamber.
Colonel Montoya chuckled as he watched her take in her surroundings. "I see that I still have the capacity to surprise you, my dear Queen. This is my true treasure room. The vault upstairs was merely for convenience. Because you seem so familiar with the workings of our jail, I took the precaution of installing these." Montoya gestured to the wall opposite the safe and Tessa noticed with a sinking heart several sets of manacles hanging from chains cemented to the wall. "Since you are indeed a treasure, it seems appropriate to have you here" Montoya said smoothly. "Sergeant, remove her bonds and chain her to the wall."
Clustering around her, Sergeant Perez and his squad grabbed hold of the Queen and removed the ropes about her arms and wrists. Tessa allowed herself a small sigh of relief as her arms were released. The soldiers then marched her backward to the wall and attached a set of manacles. She was left standing with her hands pulled to either side unable to join her hands together. With a flourish Montoya stepped forward. "Allow me to remove this" he said and then unknotted the handkerchief from behind her head. Tessa spat out the wadding and allowed her jaw to relax.
"What's the matter, cat got your tongue?" inquired Montoya.
"It's just that your hospitality leaves me speechless," Tessa replied.
"Sergeant Perez, please escort Senor Petroff out. You and two men will guard the entrance to this room and let no one in without my permission.
"But what of my reward?" protested Mikhail.
Montoya looked impatient. "You will have your reward in good time, Senor. Trust me you will not be forgotten. Right now I would like to have a private unmasking and a little talk with the Queen." After that…" began Montoya only to be interrupted by a loud shout from the top of the kitchen stairs.
"Colonel, are you down there?" The call was followed by the clatter of feet on the stairs. A moment later Captain Grisham looked round as he stepped into the vault room. The Captain had been though a trying 24 hours. He had got little sleep the prior night due to his vigil at the jailhouse, been knocked unconscious by the Queen and then spent the whole day in the saddle. He never had found Mikhail and had abandoned the search when it got dark. As he caught sight of Mikhail and the Queen his face darkened with a flush of anger. "I thought I was supposed to help you capture the Queen," he said to Mikhail. "Instead I could barely follow your tracks. I have spent the whole day eating your trail dust."
The giant's face assumed a look of innocence. "But Captain, I went as slow as I could. Fortunately I didn't require your assistance," he said indicating the Queen.
"Enough of this, Grisham, the important thing is we have captured the Queen. These men are just leaving so I can begin my chat with her," Montoya interrupted.
"Colonel, your guests upstairs are looking for you" Grisham replied. "Don Hidalgo was asking for you in particular. The band has stopped and I understand they are waiting for your fiddling.
A spasm of pain crossed Montoya's face. "It is a violin, Captain, not a fiddle. It is doubtless difficult for a man of your culture but please strive to remember it." Montoya looked thoughtfully at the Queen. "I think I will postpone the pleasure of your unmasking until later. In the mean time, I will let you get comfortable in your new accommodations."
Gesturing towards the door, Montoya ushered everyone out of the vault room, leaving the lantern hanging from a chain in the ceiling. As he exited, Montoya pulled shut the heavy door and then locked it and slid across the bolt. "Captain Grisham, you will accompany Senor Petroff to my office. Locked in my desk you will find Senor Petroff's reward money. Here is the key. After that you will return here and take charge of the guard detail. To your care I entrust the vault door key. And Marcus" he added in warning, "I expect to be the one to unmask the Queen."
Already smarting from the crack about his culture, Grisham couldn't prevent himself from saying "but Colonel, I was going to attend your party. I have a booked a dance with Tessa Alvarado."
"Captain, it is always duty before pleasure. I will convey your regrets to Senorita Alvarado." With these words Montoya climbed the stairs to the kitchen leaving Grisham and Mikhail to join him. Sergeant Perez indicated for two of his squad to follow while he and the remaining men pulled out some chairs and a table from the stored furniture and proceeded to make themselves comfortable.
*****************
Act Four, Scene 3
Inside the vault room, Tessa listened carefully until all sounds had died down on the other side of the door. When satisfied, she carefully slid down the wall towards the floor. There was just enough slack in the chains for her to sit on the floor with her back to the wall. Stretching her left leg out in front of herself Tessa braced against it and lifted her right leg up. Demonstrating her flexibility, she brought her boot cuff within reach of her right hand. Tessa carefully worked her fingers inside the boot and pulled out the spring steel lock pick concealed there. This was going to be a bit more difficult than she had thought since she had to use only the one hand to pick the manacle lock. Working carefully so not to drop the precious pick Tessa's lips pressed together in concentration. A few minutes later there was a sharp click and the cuff fell away from her wrist.
'I really must thank Doctor Helm,' Tessa thought. 'Goodness knows how he learned it but he is an excellent locksmith and teacher.' The Queen was going to have to do something nice for him in exchange for his lessons and the gift of a lockpick. The second cuff opened much more quickly than the first then Tessa stood and stretched gratefully. She walked quietly over to the door and looked at the lock. She could manage the lock, but the bolt on the other side would be a problem.
Settling down against the wall she proceeded to wait patiently.
****************
Act Four, Scene 4
Grisham settled resentfully into his chair. The cellar was chilly and not particularly comfortable. He had paid Mikhail his money as instructed and he was now stuck here with two soldiers to wait god knows how long for Montoya to return. He had dismissed the sergeant and told him to wait for further instructions from Montoya. 'I should be upstairs impressing Tessa Alvarado not stuck down here,' he told himself. He wondered what plan Montoya had for getting that 1,000 reales back from that buffoon Mikhail. He was sure he wouldn't just let him leave town with them. Luck had favored the giant and made Grisham look bad. At least with the Queen out of circulation he wasn't likely to have any future failures to further lower his stock with Montoya.
"Capitan, there is someone coming from the kitchen" one of the soldiers said. Grisham looked up in time to see the kitchen door open at the top of the stairs.
"Who the hell is there…" he began only to stop when he saw it was Mikhail. The giant wasn't alone. Fenner stood with him, his hands secured behind his back and a rope looped around his neck.
"I have brought another present for Colonel Montoya," said Mikhail jovially. "You wouldn't believe the things you find lurking around. Come now," he said as he led Fenner down the stairs and into the cellar.
"Hey careful with the neck, it's the only one I've got," squawked Fenner. "A rather important part of me body is attached to it and I like keeping them all in one piece.
Grisham stood and strolled over. "I wouldn't worry to much about it if I were you. You are going to be losing the head in a couple of days anyway." Frustration gnawed at him at Mikhail's further triumph.
Mikhail gestured towards the vault, "Montoya told me to secure him in there along with the Queen."
Grisham smiled without humor at Fenner. "Not a problem, plenty of room for one more." He went to the door and producing the key inserted it into the lock and turned it. Satisfied it was unlocked he drew back the bolt and pushed against the door.
The two guards slung their muskets over their shoulders and came over to assist. Grisham's attention was claimed by a sickening thunk and he turned to see Mikhail release the soldiers' heads he had just knocked together. "Hey what's going on!" Grisham hand sought his sword hilt only to come to a halt. Fenner grinned with genuine amusement as he held the pocket pistol he had brought from behind his back pointed steadily at Grisham's head.
"I'd have a care there, Captain, or it will be you not needing your head anymore." Grisham stood stock still while Mikhail reached over and removed his sword.
"Thank you very much, Captain," continued Fenner, "It's always a pleasure doing business with a sensible man. Now if you would be so kind as to lead the way, we will go and see how the lady is doing.
Having no choice, Grisham pushed past the door and into the vault room. He had just entered when from behind the door the Queen emerged and gave him a mighty kick between the shoulder blades. Grisham went staggering across the floor and cannoned into the wall.
"No need for that, love," Fenner said as he and Mikhail stepped into the room. "Old Fenner has the situation well in hand. I thought you said she was chained to the wall," he added to Mikhail.
"She was when I left," replied Mikhail. "How did you get loose?"
Tessa smiled behind her mask. "I told you before, I studied lock picking in night school."
Grisham shook the cobwebs from his head and gingerly straightened up. "I don't understand how you persuaded Mikhail to help you," he asked the Queen.
"If you must know Captain, I didn't persuade Mikhail to do a thing, that's Roman."
Grisham gasped then groaned. "When did you switch places with your brother?"
Roman rocked lightly back and forth on his heels, a pleased look on his face. "I never had to switch places with my brother. The Colonel made the mistake of thinking my brother was still in Monterey. I had already met with him and given him some money. As soon as I left my meeting with Montoya, Fenner was on his way to tell the Queen."
If Grisham was surprised before, the world fairly rocked for him now. "Then what was all this in aid of?" he asked.
Fenner's face took on a pitying look as he patiently explained. "It was to find this room. Her majesty calculated the easiest way to find Montoya's secret hiding hole was for him to show it to her. Roman and I couldn't resist another 1,000 reales of Montoya's money."
Standing with her hands on her hips, her head cocked to one side the Queen regarded Grisham. "It was very inconvenient of you to follow us after last night. Poor Roman couldn't be sure you weren't in sight and I had to be bound all day. I think I own you a little something for that. Roman, would you be so kind as to place the Captain in those manacles and drag those guards in here?" the Queen asked.
Roman and Fenner locked the protesting Captain into the shackles so recently vacated by the Queen. Whilst Roman dragged the two unconscious guards inside, Fenner relieved Grisham of his keys. Looking at the Queen, Fenner said, "I think you be needing the little toy you left with me." He reached in the breast of his coat and withdrew a stethoscope, which he tossed to the Queen.
The Queen deftly caught it. "Thank you very much. Your arrival couldn't have been better timed since Montoya will be tied up with his party for awhile longer." The Queen put the stethoscope in her ears and placed the other end next to the dial on the safe. It had been a simple matter for her to sweep it into her basket during the chaos of yesterday's visit with Dr. Helm. Tossing her hair back over her shoulder with a look of concentration on her lovely face, she set to work turning the dial slowly back and forth. Grisham watched in fascination. Within five minutes he heard a loud click and the Queen grasped the lever handle of the safe, twisted it and pulled the door open. "Yes" she said with satisfaction as she saw the thick stack of documents.
"I have found the deeds and Montoya's correspondence. These should be worth while reading," the Queen said as she seized a thick portfolio of documents "I really am interested in what secrets Montoya considers worth burying down here."
Just before locking the door the Queen addressed Grisham. "I wouldn't waste any breath calling for help, Captain, I'm sure no one will hear you from inside this room. Don't worry, the wait for Montoya will give you plenty of time to come up with excuses." Tessa flashed the captain a quick grin and a mock salute and then was gone.
"Come back here, you witch," yelled Grisham, but his only answer was the closing of the vault room door and the grating of the key in the lock.
***************

[damar2525]

Act Five, Scene 1
Montoya couldn't remember enjoying an evening more. Since his return, the smile hadn't left his face and the earlier comments from the Dons had slipped from his mind like water from a duck's back. He had been particularly inspired playing the violin tonight. The night was indeed music to his ears and he still had the delightful treat of hearing the Queen singing out her soul to follow.
He hadn't been able to resist composing a brief note to the Viceroy detailing the Queen's capture. The note had been dispatched to the stables and by now should be on its way to Monterey. Montoya smiled in satisfaction as he considered the rewards that would come. Without the Queen's interference he would be able to rake in all the tax money he wanted and seize even more land. With money and land he could raise more soldiers, buy the cannon he wanted and then start accumulating real power.
It was unfortunate he had to delay the Queen's unmasking. He was curious to know her real identity. He looked over his guests trying to determine if anyone was missing. Dr. Helm still hadn't arrived, but then he was always late. Vera Hidalgo was there; laughing and chatting with her a handsome young partner while her husband was safely tucked away with his cronies. He hadn't seen Tessa Alvarado yet, but he had glimpsed her servant Marta so she must be around. He thought perhaps that Senorita Aguilera was missing. He had had his suspicions about her ever since her brother had turned outlaw. His speculations were interrupted by Dr. Helm's arrival. Montoya moved over to greet him. "Good evening Doctor, so good of you to finally join us," he said with gentle sarcasm.
Ignoring the implied criticism, Dr. Helm ran a hand through his hair before replying. "I didn't think I would make it at all. It's been one hell of a day starting with treating your soldiers' broken limbs this morning right up until now. Somehow it seems to me that treating the sick and injured takes precedence over parties."
"Doctor, how lovely to see you, I've been looking for you all evening." Tessa Alvarado with Marta in attendance had suddenly appeared at Helm's elbow and was smiling engagingly at him.
Montoya noticed with amusement the slightly annoyed expression on Dr. Helm's face. It was really rather amusing how the Senorita's interest in the Doctor was not returned. The devil that was inside him prompted him to say "Doctor, I see that I can leave you in good hands. It appears that you and the Senorita have much to catch up on." Inclining his head, Montoya started to take leave of them.
"Oh don't go, Colonel," Tessa said sweetly to him. "I am sure that you need to relax more, you are always looking so tense. You know Colonel, you work too hard." Tessa turned back to Dr. Helm and continued "I just don't think things are fair for the Colonel. He had a long trip to Monterey and the night he gets back his prisoner escapes from the jail. Now he has to throw this party for everyone. I don't know when you find time to relax Colonel."
"Senorita, I'm touched by your concern. But I am a military man and we rise above our troubles. In fact, I think I may soon have some good news that I can share with you all," he said enigmatically.
"Oh I'm so pleased Colonel! You work so hard that you deserve good fortune," Tessa replied warmly.
Helm couldn't stomach much more to this so he interjected "Senorita, I'm sorry but I am not much of a conversationalist tonight. I have had a very long day and you must excuse me."
"You had problems today too doctor? I thought that only the Colonel had heavy duties to bear."
Helm started to bristle. Would nothing get rid of the wretched girl? "My day started with setting broken bones of two of the Colonel's men, then assisting with a baby delivery, attending a very busy surgery in my office and finally trying to complete that batch of medicine I was working on when you visited yesterday. Next time, Senorita, when I request you not to move anything on my bench would you please listen to me. Not only are all my chemicals mixed up but I still can't find my stethoscope. It made things very awkward in the surgery."
Being careful not to catch Marta's eye, Tessa somehow kept a straight face. "But Doctor, you know I pointed out that you should clean up your office. Don't worry I am sure when you tidy that it will turn up."
As they were talking Sergeant Perez had entered the main room and was staring intently around. Catching sight of Montoya he hurried over with a worried look on his face. Clutched in one hand was a sheet of paper. Montoya had a horrid premonition as the Sergeant handed it to him. "Colonel, I found this pinned to the back door of the Villa."
With suddenly trembling hands Montoya unfolded the paper.
Dear Colonel:
I must extend my apologies to you for not waiting for your return. I know you're a busy man so I didn't want to take up any more of your time. I can't thank you enough for the guided tour of your cellars. Your vault room is so well hidden its no wonder I couldn't find it before. Don't worry, your hospitality hasn't gone to waste as Captain Grisham nobly volunteered to stay in my place. I am sure that given the chance he will provide plenty of entertainment for you. By the way, Roman would like to add his thanks for the 1,000 reales tonight. Between that and the generous brandy you shared in Monterey he holds you in the highest regard
Adios, the Queen of Swords
Montoya barely noticed the tarot card fall from the opened paper
Montoya was dragged back to the present by an urgent voice. "Colonel? Colonel, are you all right? Did you get some bad news?" Tessa Alvarado placed an anxious hand on his sleeve and peered at his suddenly paled face. "Doctor, I think you had better get the Colonel a drink. He appears to have had a nasty shock." Tessa glanced around in apparent concern. "Where is Captain Grisham when you need him."
Pulling himself together with an effort Montoya said tersely, "no need to trouble yourself, Doctor. A momentary shock only. I'm afraid Captain Grisham is tied up just now, Senorita." Raising a shaky hand to his temple to think, Montoya remembered his message on the way to the Viceroy. With a tightening of his heart he felt the jaws of his trap close about him.
THE END
©Montoya's Trap - October 2001 - Terry