Heart of the Sun

Chapter 21: Stay With Me

Alice's point of view:

I sat upon the wooden boards of my room. It was a peculiar thing to do, especially when there's a bed and chairs, but it was most comfortable down here.

I was always the weird one, wasn't I? I would always the one girl who had no interest in gossip or flirting. I was the one girl who didn't want to use a side-saddle and wanted to learn to fight. Other girls would play dolls and I searched for bugs. I love to talk about politics and run about bare-foot. I studied stars while others learned the latest dance.

I could almost hear Arthur laughing and saying I was being  ridiculous. He always supported my abnormal nature. He would even join me along with whatever unlady-like actives I was doing.

I sighed, lowing the book from my nose. For the longest time, whenever I thought of my brother, I felt resentment for all he has done. But now, happily settled in my new life, I find myself missing his championship. No longer did I care about a good marriage and escaping the pressure of living with my father.  Even though he treated me well, I constantly felt like what I did was never enough.
The thought had a familiar ring to it. Didn't Arthur say that? He did. That always did confuse me. I thought Father was a good man even if he could be a bit harsh at times...
Now that I pondered more about it, I couldn't remember too many conversations Father and Arthur have had. I was only there for light talk at dinners and other event. It seemed like when they did it was always a private conversation....
The opening of my door tour me from my thoughts. Then a bulky body collapsed on the floor with me.

"Has Antonio been working you too hard today?"

He cracked his eyes a bit, potentially disrupted from a nap he tried to take.

"Yeah, and now I don't want to do anything but lie here with you."

I tried to hide my blush behind my book as Alfonso scooted up to put his head on my lap. But it didn't matter as he was instantly asleep.
I quietly put the small book down. I trade leather for soft straw as I run my fingers through his hair. I smile, knowing even though I've lost someone who loved me much, I have someone who will love me still.
But maybe, he'll stay with me. This one will be different. He won't leave. That's all I need. Just a loyal love.
But that didn't stop the mist in my eyes. I still love my brother, and I miss him badly. I know him, better to know he didn't leave just to hurt me. He didn't leave for a crazy reason either.

Arthur is an intelligent man, I only wish I knew what was going on inside his head.

Gilbert's point of view:
I saw her waiting on the deck of the Monseigneur. A smile lit her face. My big sister. It felt like the gangplank couldn't have been thrown down fast enough. Julchen came barreling across. I grinned, ready to meet her force with my own. We collided into a hug, locking our arms tightly.

"I missed you Sister."
"Always the big softly, aren't you Gil?"
"For you I am"
"And her?"

I twist my head to see who her is. Elizabetha stood smiling at Julchen's and I's interaction. She was smiling, honestly happy that we are.

"If I am, then she'll surely then be my downfall."

Julchen then ran over as her as Liza shared their own bear hug.
Elizabetha has been Julchen and I childhood friend since we could barely speak.

I was about to join in on the conversation the girls had quickly started when I saw someone. She was standing with Francis. She was very pretty.
I walk over confidently to introduce myself.

"Hello, I am Captain Gilbert Beilschmidt. May I ask what brings you to my awesome ship?"
"Hola, I'm Isabel Fernandez!"
"Fernandez you say?"
"Yes, I'm Antonio's sister!"
"Ohh."

So this was that Spanish bastard's sister. I could clearly see the resemblance between them. I can only wonder if their looks is where it stops.

Suddenly, Isabel was spun around by a current brunette.

"So you're Isabel? Oh my goodness you're so cute! You're even more than I imagined! Oh you must be so exhausted!"

I turned away from Liz's rambling to Francis. I knew now that she would take good care of her. Liz was, after all, was the most nurturing person I knew.
Francis, meanwhile had a stern expression. He meant business.

"So I bought her from Arthur Kirkland some weeks ago. But I am still suspicious of his plans. He's changed a bit in some way, not too sure what it is or what caused it. But he was somewhat reluctant to let her go. I think this means he's not done with her yet. Also I haven't been able to contact Toni so I want to drop her off in the colonies in America. Especially since I know you are already house a woman there... I'm sure one more couldn't hurt. I can transport her there myself but, I needed the coordinates."

I grinded my teeth, unwilling to give an answer. Sophie's location is supposed to stay private as possible but I wouldn't have the time to go there myself. But I did want to help Isabel in her time of need as she is the sister of one of my closest friends.
As my mind tumbles with the idea, my wandering eyes catch Julchen. I remember that I can fully trust her and that she'll make sure everything runs smoothly.

"Okay Francis, as long as Julchen is in charge of Isabel and the voyage. She also must agree to it. That or I can keep her with me if you find keeping her an endangerment to her or your ship. But I do find your proposal the best for everyone."

Elizabetha's point of view:
Julchen and a lost Isabel sat in the gallery while I fixed a quick meal. Even though I'm sure Francis and Julchen did the best they could, a soldier and double agent aren't ideal caretakers. Isabel appeared fine, but I knew an underfed person when I see one.

I set salted pork and buttered bread down, watching the subtle glow of hunger fill Isabel's eyes. I try to stifle a laugh as both her and Julchen eat quickly.

"Do they feed you on that French ship?"

Their gaze flickers up at me, both a little embarrassed.

"They have more alcohol than they have food."
"I bet if you'd cut them up they bleed wine and ale rather than blood."

Both start laughing at the very thought, causing me to crack some in turn.
Francis' heeled boots blended with the laugher before then dominating the air. The two look back, interested in what he might have to say.

"Sorry to intrude in the lively conversation, ladies, but I must speak with Julchen."

They made brief eye contact before she rose.

"I promise it's important and you shouldn't miss her for long."

As the left, Isabel and I faced each other, carrying on the conversation.

"So do you like it here Elizabetha?"
"Please, call me Liz. But I do. The Beilschmidts have been life long friends so to be traveling the seas with them is all could ever want."
"What about a love life?"

She paused rethinking her question.

"I'm sorry if that's too personal though and-"
"No no! It's fine!"I laugh off.

"That is something I want but, I think I might have found it here too."