Heart of the Sun

Chapter 15: Spanish Gold

Third person point of view:
Alice stood on the deck of the Santa Maria, watching the infinite waves of the ocean rise and fall. She had been sailing for a few weeks now and was adjusting well. She had feared that the men here would reject her, and it did start of rough. But once they realize she wasn't her brother and gave her a chance, they found to have a liking for the first mate's wife.

She sighed, feeling harsh sunshine warm her skin. The captain was still uneasy. But who could blame him? Her heart ached for the poor woman that was captured. Her name still floats about the ship, Alice hears about her now and then. Little bits and snippets of things she loved and did. It surprised Alice that even the most scar ridden and sea-hardened men missed her. It made her want to meet this woman. Who is this Isabel Fernandez, what's she like? Though her curiosity was burning, she was too shy to ask Alfonso. It seemed like a very touchy subject as they seemed close. Weren't they cousins? Or was it siblings? I know their definitely family and losing family is hard... Tears clouded her eyes. Her own lost still haunted her. It hurt her more knowing her own kin caused others this pain.

Antonio's point of view:
I watched as Alfonso talked with his bride. The only thing keeping me from tossing her off the railing was Alfonso's grin. He honestly was coming to love the woman his father arranged for him to marry.

But the sight of her still irked me. Her hair, her eyes, her language. Even some of her habits. Not to mention my sister was being tormented while his was being showered in love. How cruel.

To distract myself, I stared at the water depths, hope to get a glimpse of shimmering scales. It's been awhile since I last saw the pink fish tail, but I was sure it was near.

After watching for awhile, my head started to drift to all the ships and ports that I've stopped by recently. Some people have started to realign with Kirkland or simply rebel because Kirkland has claimed to have "bested me". They thought that the the King of Seas was overthrown. But they soon learned how wrong they were.

And so will Kirkland.

Isabel's point of view:
My life continues quietly. While I still visit Allister in his room, I find myself more to be more withdraw and preferring the emptiness of my "room". It had been decided that my old cell was too dirty and they wished to preserve my health now. The memories of old chains and dried blood still haunt me. While I'm no longer harassed like before, I still feel on edge and miserable. I was still held against my will, away from my loved ones. I desperately cling to everything I can remember about my old life, praying it won't fade from time.

I swear, I will never allow myself to be that helpless ever again. I will fight with every grain of life I have. I rather die by my own hand then by such sinful ones.

But my opportunities haven't run out yet and I've still got people to live for. Just not Lovino. My eyes mist. Alfonso also has a life outside the seas and can't spend forever looking for me. His father doesn't care and Alfonso will always put his father above me. But Antonio, Dios, he will always fight for me. As long as I still have him, I can never lose hope.

The cat, which I have named Patches, scratches on my door. Then he starts to hiss, displeased with something. I jump up to aid my precious animal, opening the door to find myself agreeing with his displeasure. Arthur Kirkland stands with Allister, both tense.

"You, lets go."

I stiffen, confused and immediately thinking of the worst. Before I can panic and make a move of attack, Allister calmly walks up a grabs my arm. He's gentle, but still forceful. Wishing not to aggravate the closest thing I have to an ally, I allow myself to be brought to the top deck. There waiting was a few unfamiliar but nicer dressed men. 
One in particular stood out to me, his blonde hair shining in the heavy sunlight. His clothes were fine and in rich colors of red, blue, and white. He too looked up to watch me, a friendly smile gracing his handsome face. He visited my cell once. This situation wasn't looking good. They looked like traders, perhaps upperclass.

"Glad you look pleased with what you see. Now do me a favor and show me what I want to see."

Arthur's words were cold and business like. So he doesn't plan on keeping me. Perhaps this is to further upset Antonio for when he catches up.
My heart was sinking fast. They plan to sell my body to used to pleasure others no doubt. I can't let them take my dignity, its all I have left of myself! I started looking around, ready to start a fight when something caught my eye.

The Frenchman had a gold cross peeping out of his shirt. But not just any gold cross, a cross which only has two others just like it. It was one of the crosses my brother owns and gave to two of his most trusted friends. It was made of pure Spanish gold and embedded with precious stones. Either he took it from the original owner or it an ally of mi hermano!
A new plan snapped into place. I must leave with that man. He was my chance to get back to my family. I calmed myself down, ready to obey the commands which would lead to freedom.

"Why of course! And she looks so much better now too, so I give what extra is due."

The Frenchman handed the English captain a large sack of his payment before boldly walking up to me. He then grabs me by the waist, pulling me to his side.

"And I'll be taking my leave now."

"So long then."

The captain's face soured for a moment before quickly dropping into a indifferent face. Allister too remained indifferent, along with most of the bored crew. I allowed myself to lean close to the blonde, closer to someone who actually had a shred of interest in me. Nothing made me happier than to walk the gangplank to the Monseigneur.

Good riddance to the Black Baron.