The Kings of Monte Cristi

Copyright © 2013 by Leola Hamparian.

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This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, names, incidents, organizations, and dialogue in this novel are either the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

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ISBN: 978-1-4759-6616-9 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4759-6618-3 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-4759-6617-6 (ebk)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2012923437

iUniverse rev. date: 01/09/2013

Contents

Introduction

Tragic Love

The Kings of Monte Cristi

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter Twenty-Four

Chapter Twenty-Five

Chapter Twenty-Six

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Chapter Thirty

Chapter Thirty-One

Chapter Thirty-Two

Chapter Thirty-Three

Chapter Thirty-Four

Chapter Thirty-Five

Chapter Thirty-Six

Chapter Thirty-Seven

Chapter Thirty-Eight

Chapter Thirty-Nine

Chapter Forty

Chapter Forty-One

Chapter Forty-Two

Chapter Forty-Three

Chapter Forty-Four

Chapter Forty-Five

Chapter Forty-Six

Chapter Forty-Seven

Chapter Forty-Eight

Chapter Forty-Nine

Chapter Fifty

Chapter Fifty-One

Chapter Fifty-Two

Chapter Fifty-Three

Chapter Fifty-Four

Chapter Fifty-Five

Chapter Fifty-Six

Chapter Fifty-Seven

Chapter Fifty-Eight

Chapter Fifty-Nine

Chapter Sixty

Chapter Sixty-One

Chapter Sixty-Two

Chapter Sixty-Three

Chapter Sixty-Four

Chapter Sixty-Five

Chapter Sixty-Six

Chapter Sixty-Seven

Chapter Sixty-Eight

Chapter Sixty-Nine

Chapter Seventy

Chapter Seventy-One

Chapter Seventy-Two

Chapter Seventy-Three

Chapter Seventy-Four

Chapter Seventy-Five

Chapter Seventy-Six

Chapter Seventy-Seven

Chapter Seventy-Eight

Chapter Seventy-Nine

Chapter Eighty

Chapter Eighty-One

Chapter Eighty-Two

Chapter Eighty-Three

Chapter Eighty-Four

Chapter Eighty-Five

Chapter Eighty-Six

Chapter Eighty-Seven

Chapter Eighty-Eight

Chapter Eighty-Nine

Chapter Ninety

Chapter Ninety-One

Chapter Ninety-Two

Chapter Ninety-Three

Chapter Ninety-Four

Chapter Ninety-Five

Chapter Ninety-Six

Chapter Ninety-Seven

Chapter Ninety-Eight

Chapter Ninety-Nine

Chapter One Hundred

Chapter One Hundred And One

Chapter One Hundred And Two

Chapter One Hundred and Three

Chapter One Hundred And Four

Chapter One Hundred And Five

Chapter One Hundred And Six

Chapter One Hundred And Seven

Chapter One Hundred And Eight

Chapter One Hundred And Nine

Chapter One Hundred And Ten

Chapter One Hundred And Eleven

Chapter One Hundred And Twelve

Chapter One Hundred And Thirteen

Chapter One Hundred And Fourteen

Chapter One Hundred And Fifteen

Chapter One Hundred And Sixteen

Chapter One Hundred And Seventeen

Chapter One Hundred And Eighteen

Chapter One Hundred And Nineteen

Chapter One Hundred And Twenty

Chapter One Hundred And Twenty-One

Chapter One Hundred And Twenty-Two

Chapter One Hundred And Twenty-Three

Chapter One Hundred And Twenty-Four

Chapter One Hundred And Twenty-Five

Chapter One Hundred And Twenty-Six

Chapter One Hundred And Twenty-Seven

Chapter One Hundred And Twenty-Eight

Chapter One Hundred And Twenty-Nine

Chapter One Hundred And Thirty

Chapter One Hundred And Thirty-One

Chapter One Hundred And Thirty-Two

Chapter One Hundred And Thirty-Three

Chapter One Hundred And Thirty-Four

Chapter One Hundred And Thirty-Five

Chapter One Hundred And Thirty-Six

Chapter One Hundred And Thirty-Seven

Chapter One Hundred And Thirty-Eight

Chapter One Hundred And Thirty-Nine

Chapter One Hundred And Forty

Chapter One Hundred And Forty-One

Chapter One Hundred And Forty-Two

Chapter One Hundred And Forty-Three

Chapter One Hundred And Forty-Four

Chapter One Hundred And Forty-Five

Chapter One Hundred And Forty-Six

Chapter One Hundred And Forty-Seven

Chapter One Hundred And Forty-Eight

Chapter One Hundred And Forty-Nine

Chapter One Hundred And Fifty

I am dedicating my third book, The Kings Of Monte Cristi to my brother Professor Edward Vrej Safarian and my late sister Lily Zepure Adourian. I have known many wonderful people throughout the years that have inspired me in forming some of the personalities in my fictitious characters and I want to mention I give all credit to my siblings for the portrayal of integrity and brilliance that you will come across in my book through these characters.

Most importantly, I would like to thank my daughter Janet. Without her help this book would not have been possible.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Stephanie Shernofsky for coming to my rescue with the Hebrew translation which was needed in an important section of my book.

I would like to thank Vicken Boghosian for his contribution in bringing to light the ornate crown worn by Tigranes The Great, King of Armenia during the 1st Century BC shown throughout the book. Also, the Armenian Eternity Wheel is shown at the top of the medallion which is illustrated on the front and back cover of this book.

It is an honour to mention and display the Crown and the Armenian Eternity Wheel in my book.

Introduction

The purpose of this introduction is to help familiarize you with the continuing story of Roberto and Shane if you haven’t read books 1 and 2, Gardenia of Love and The Golden Gardenia. If you have read the first two books (thank you), read the following anyway; it might make you smile.

Once upon a time in a far-off land known as the Dominican Republic, there lived a handsome prince who was also a handsome guerrilla leader determined to free his Country from a raging Civil War. Now the fact that his lineage could be traced all the way back to Charles, King of Spain, verified that his ancestry was directly connected to royalty so he really was a prince. But somehow, it did not seem right to refer to our hero as the handsome guerrilla leader also known as Prince Roberto Enrique Castaneda, so we dropped the Prince (literally) and he became Roberto Castaneda, sometimes also referred to as Comandante Castaneda, which he really was.

Anyway, Roberto did free his beloved Country from the ravages of the Civil War and settled down with his beautiful Shane who he had kidnapped because he didn’t have time to explain to her who he was and why she should leave her two friends who were vacationing with her and ride off with him into the Dominican sunset. (A simple introduction might have worked but there’s no romance in anything that simple)

Maybe she would have gone along willingly if she knew he was a prince and had a lot of money. But somehow, if you had read the first book, you got the feeling that she wasn’t too impressed. In a way you can’t blame the girl because her home, Toronto Canada, was far from the Dominican Republic and she missed her mom and dad. She also missed her two brothers, Skye, a doctor, and Terry, a journalist for a large newspaper. Now both Skye and Terry had very demanding and busy jobs which was probably the reason why they never left immediately for the Dominican to look for their one and only sister when they heard about the kidnapping. So I suppose this is good reason to forgive them. However, Shane was not just beautiful but also a very intelligent girl and she made a very smart and fast decision (and sacrifice) by marrying Roberto. (If you saw Roberto, you would know that it was really no sacrifice.) After all, Shane was 22 years old and still single and was not getting any younger and he was very dashing and handsome as all princes are supposed to be.

Shane grew to love Roberto as he had predicted and not because she never had to do any housework or even cook, which that alone would have convinced an awful lot of women that marrying Roberto was the right thing and a necessary sacrifice (there’s that word again), but Roberto did treat her royally and gave her three children. Well, he didn’t just hand them over to her; it involved a bit more than that, and he took her to his castle which we’ll call the Villa, to live happily ever after.

Now things did not stay perfect for this handsome couple. (Shane would be considered beautiful rather than handsome but the sentence sounded good) Anyway . . . Roberto’s right-hand man and closest friend, the ever-faithful Raphael, disappeared after he hit upon the beautiful Shane (what nerve) and they continued their lives without him. It wasn’t easy because Raphael had been doing all the cooking and cleaning and probably the laundry too. You would think that Shane would have been nicer to him but she wasn’t. Anyway . . . this is where Rosita came in. This very nice lady had been helping out with the cooking at the Villa and now she took over and looked after everything. (Every household should have a Rosita) Thank goodness for this because poor Shane had her hands full with three children and would never have time to cook, clean and still look beautiful. Perish the thought.

And then there was Ramon, their trusted bodyguard who lived with them and did a great deal to help out. He not only was Shane’s personal bodyguard (?) but he helped raising the three darling children, twins Frederik and Enrique and their younger sister Camille. It was he who was there when they took their first steps and it was he who taught them to ride superbly and without fear at a young age. He was a very close friend and confidant to Roberto and also very close, actually a little too close to the beautiful Shane and before you knew it the little rascal had fallen hopelessly and deeply in love with her. (Oh the price of beauty) Now Shane didn’t know this until much later on in the story, or maybe she did know but never let on because he always carried a machine gun. If so, I can’t say that I blame her because Ramon could be scary and brutal and some people thought he was inhuman. Now if that doesn’t convince you, add to it the big scar on the side of his face that starts at his hairline and runs down his left cheek to his neck. He was also missing his little finger on his left hand. Well, actually, he didn’t miss it, it just wasn’t there. But hey, it could have been worse, it could have been his ring finger and the poor guy would not have been able to get married. (?) Anyway . . . he had long dark hair that went past his shoulders and so there, you have the picture. Add to this his incredible strength which they say is equivalent to five men and no scruples whatsoever and you have Ramon. Nevertheless, he was a damn good bodyguard and the only law that he respected was his own. Now if that doesn’t scare you, wait and see what happens. Sorry, this I cannot reveal, you’ll have to read it. Even I was surprised as my pen wouldn’t stop and before I knew it, it had happened. Well, I think you’ll agree it was bound to happen. Sometimes the characters in a story are more powerful than the writer and . . . well, it’s hard to explain. Anyway, he also trained hand-chosen bodyguards and formed an elite and selective group of men which he named Da Elegido who he also proudly referred to as my Kings. And Kings they were, nothing but the best for these brave men. Life was good for them once they recovered from the screaming and slapping and threats handed out by Ramon.

So there you have the picture so far and not wanting to give away any more of the story, I’ll let you read on to find out what happened to these incredible people. Oh, I forgot to mention that Ramon married Roberto and Shane’s daughter, Camille. Yes, he was older than her; she was sixteen when she became Camille Rubenstein (you read right) and Ramon, the tricky little rascal was thirty-eight. So what’s wrong with that? My dad was twenty-six years older than my mom when they married and they had three gorgeous, intelligent children. Just kidding; well, not really.

Anyway . . . read on and I hope you enjoy book #3, The Kings Of Monte Cristi.

Happy reading

Leola Hamparian

Tragic Love

A love like this is beautiful

It’s also very sad

He celebrates it in his heart

The love he’s never had

He knows that it’s forbidden

But he treasures it like gold

Just a memory of something

Not his to have and hold

He thinks of her most often

As he rides along the beach

He worships her within his heart

Forever—out of reach

Leola Hamparian

The Kings of Monte Cristi

Incredible, astounding, unbelievable. When Sierra Castille first saw Enrique, these were the thoughts that raced through her wicked and corrupted mind. She had never seen such innocence portrayed in the face of an adult. The look in his soft dark eyes was pure, almost child-like, his movements refined, his manner eloquent. All the qualities she never had, never possessed but craved like a starving animal at the sight of food, was there before her eyes. As she watched she suddenly had an intense desire to take him away from all other human beings for fear of contamination that might destroy the rare innocence that he possessed that fascinated her. But she would not let that happen, first things first. She would find out who he was and why he had a bodyguard with him constantly. It was obvious the bodyguard sitting by the window with the machine gun was there because of him. He had not moved away and had continued sitting there while Enrique was alone in the hospital Emergency room. However, that would not be a problem; the bodyguard could easily be eliminated. She continued to stare as her heart raced wildly and waited while the fire within her maniacal mind seemed to suddenly turn cool and she felt a temporary soothing relief.

Sierra was extremely dangerous but even she was not aware to what extent her evil ways could reach. Within the next two months her poisonous tentacles would reach out and touch the Castaneda family and before she was through the havoc and devastation caused by her would be so enormous that it would forever take away something precious and beautiful and leave a permanent emotional scar on all of them.

The Hospital of the Holy Angels was having a busy morning. There had been a three-car accident on the highway and several people had been brought into the Emergency. Enrique’s uncle Dr. Skye Dalinger and another doctor were trying to stabilize a critically injured man and Enrique was applying a cast on a child’s arm. The child was crying and Enrique told the nurse that it would be all right if the mother came in. He lifted the little girl and walked to the window talking to her and trying to console her. Enrique’s gentle mannerisms made him popular with children and she soon stopped crying. He turned to return to the table and almost bumped into the woman who had been standing directly behind him and the first thing he noticed were the eyes—very dark, large and round. Her face was exquisite with high cheekbones and very smooth skin, the colour of light coffee and cream. Her dark hair resembled a wild mane which oddly suited her. She was stunning. If he had not been carrying the child she would have grabbed his arm and pulled him to her. Enrique was startled.

Perdon, I did not realize there was anyone behind me said Enrique, I’m sorry. She did not move or say anything and just continued looking at him as if hypnotized. Enrique walked around her and placed the child on the table just as the nurse returned with the mother.

The critically injured man was being wheeled out and Enrique finished putting the cast on the child’s arm. The nurse carried out the child followed by the mother and he turned his attention to the woman standing at one side watching him. She did not say anything but put out her hand. There were red welts across her fingers and two of them were bleeding. He examined her hand and knew it probably wasn’t very serious but quite painful.

Don’t go away, I’ll be back he said going to the sink. She definitely had no intention of going away and watched as he filled a basin with cold water and returned, gently placing her hand in the basin. At his touch she felt as if an electric current had gone through her body and did not take her eyes off his face.

Was your hand caught in a door? he asked gently bending her fingers in the water. Her heart was pounding inside her and she wanted to touch his face.

Si came her answer.

Enrique looked up and their eyes met. I know you are in a lot of pain he said. Are you allergic to any medication?

She shook her head. She was in much more pain than he could imagine but he was unaware of the effect he had on her. Enrique dried her hand and moved the fingers again. Nothing seemed to be broken and he treated the cuts.

The room was quiet, the nurse had not returned and he knew the woman beside him was a little strange but being Roberto’s son it would take a lot more than that to upset him. He gave her a pill and a glass of water and said what is your name? She stared at him and said Sierra.

Enrique looked surprised. Would you be Sierra Castille?

She looked warily at him. How would you know that?

Enrique smiled. You are a neighbour of ours.

She was quiet for a moment trying to believe what she had just heard. A neighbour?

Si he said. My name is Enrique.

Enrique what? came back her quick response.

Castaneda he said looking at her curiously.

Castaneda? Are you related to Frederik?

Enrique picked up the basin and carried it to the sink before answering her. He is my brother. Do you know him?

She continued staring at him. A little. You are older than him I presume?

Enrique turned and looked at her. We’re the same age.

She looked surprised. You are twins? Impossible.

He folded his arms and faced her; because we do not look alike? That is absurd.

It’s more than that she said moving closer. You’re both so different.

Si agreed Enrique, that we are. Now, if the swelling in your hand does not go down . . . .

She did not let him finish the sentence. I will be back to see you she said.

If I’m not here, just make sure you see another doctor said Enrique looking at his watch.

I will not be seeing another doctor she said. Oh, by the way, why do you have a bodyguard? I trust the one sitting over there with the machine gun belongs to you.

Enrique did not want to discuss it. Si, don’t worry about it.

She moved and stood very close to him. I don’t intend to. When will I see you again?

Enrique was surprised at her spontaneity and she continued to stand beside him waiting for an answer. He was at a loss for words. I . . . I don’t know he said.

It doesn’t matter she snapped, I will come to your Villa. I’ll see you around and turned and walked towards the door turning once to look at him and walked out.

Enrique just stood there. She was really strange and there was a disturbing air about her. He had the feeling that he would have to look over his shoulder now that she lived so close, right in the area. This angered him. He refused to live like that and suddenly felt as if there had been an invasion of his privacy. The Castanedas were a very private family but he had accepted the fact that he would come in contact with all kinds of people while he worked in the Emergency of the hospital but he had never come across anyone like Sierra. He stood there for a moment lost in thought then just shrugged it off. He had no idea whatsoever that Sierra would be the deadliest person ever to enter into his life and the part she would play in bringing great harm and tragedy to his family.

Enrique, where did you go? came Skye’s voice. Skye was Enrique’s uncle, his mother’s brother and he was standing beside him with a curious look on his face.

Tio Skye, I’m sorry, did you say something? said Enrique trying to pull himself together. He did not want to admit that she had unnerved him.

I’ve been saying your name for the last twenty seconds said Skye, where were you?

Uh, oh, it’s nothing Tio Skye, just thinking he said. If you don’t need me, I think I will call it a day. I’m feeling a bit tired.

Skye looked at him closely. This is your uncle talking Enrique, what’s happened, something’s wrong!

Enrique shook his head and put his hand on Skye’s arm. No Tio Skye, it is nothing, I just have to sleep, that’s all.

Skye was concerned, he knew that Enrique had been working almost sixteen hours but it was something else, he could see it in his face. Go ahead Enrique, everything seems okay here. Go home and get some rest and I’ll see you tomorrow, and don’t come in early, just when you can.

Enrique smiled, You are spoiling me dear Tio Skye, I love you and he embraced him and left.

As he prepared to leave, the bodyguard stood up immediately still holding his machine gun as if ready to shoot. Samouil, good heavens man, don’t you ever relax, there’s no one here said Enrique with a sigh.

Your papa said we have to be on alert, especially now.

Enrique stopped and looked at him. Since when did we go back to this Samouil? It was understood that we were going to slacken some of this bodyguard stuff. Now what’s happened?

They got into the jeep and Samouil sat beside Enrique holding his gun the way he always did and said Apparently things are going back to how it was before—maybe even tighter. I think your new neighbours have something to do with it.

Enrique shook his head. There is no need for alarm, my papa has been a bit upset lately, for no reason he said trying to sound casual.

No reason to be upset? said Samouil looking at him with a surprised expression. I saw her when she left a few minutes ago and she didn’t look too happy. No, I would say rather pretty nasty would be more like it.

When who left, Samouil, who are you talking about? said Enrique keeping his eyes on the road.

You know who I mean, that woman said Samouil glancing at him.

Sierra?

That’s the one. Those two men, the ugly ones that are always with her, and that cheetah that she’s been trying to scare people with, that wild animal she left down in the lobby. That cheetah goes everywhere with her.

Does she scare you Samouil? asked Enrique glancing at him.

Samouil laughed, don’t you know me by now Enrique? When someone goes through Da Elegido training with Ramon, nothing scares them, especially a woman.

Well, you’re right said Enrique, I believe she can be pretty nasty. Samouil looked at Enrique. She said something to you? he asked. Enrique was quiet. Did she do something to you? he said.

No Samouil, nothing happened, forget it.

I will see Ramon in the morning said Samouil settling back and looking ahead.

No, don’t do that said Enrique. There is nothing to tell, no reason to involve Ramon.

Samouil shrugged his shoulders, Take your choice, it’s either him or your papa. Which one will it be? She threatened you didn’t she? he said glancing at Enrique again.

You’ve got it all wrong Samouil. Don’t make something out of nothing. I’ll tell you what, don’t tell anyone, let’s keep it our secret and I will be careful. I can look after myself, okay?

No, it’s not okay Enrique, that’s not the way Da Elegido operates. If you want me to stay quiet then this gun and I will follow you wherever you go, every room, every hallway, the elevator, everywhere. I will become your shadow and don’t argue about it anymore, comprender?

They were approaching the front of the Villa and Enrique gave a sigh as he stopped the jeep. Comprender Samouil, I am too tired to argue.

Good said Samouil. I will wait until you are inside and pick you up tomorrow morning. Buenos noches Enrique.

Enrique got out and gave a half wave, Buenos noches Samouil he said resignedly, see you tomorrow and he went inside the Villa.

Chapter Two

It was Roberto’s favourite time of day. The sun was beginning to slowly rise and her warmth and beauty began to emerge. It was so much like lying next to a beautiful woman awakening in the early morning and watching her slowly open her eyes. He knew the feeling. Rider and horse faced the ocean as the light slowly appeared before them and Roberto bowed his head and prayed. He was grateful for what he had and would once again ask forgiveness for taking lives. But now the heaviness in his heart was gone and he lifted his head and looked towards the heavens. His dreams had come true—he wanted his dynasty and now it was happening. So why was he not happy? He had his beautiful Shane, he had found his brother Andre who he had thought had been killed, he had his children Frederik, Enrique, Camille, and Ramon who was now his son-in-law, and he had Skye and Maria and the little king Marc Shai. Also they were surrounded by the ever-faithful Lorenzo, Samouil, Garcia and Diego and there was Lorena and her mom Sara Davis, and Shane’s loving parents and her brother Terry, the newspaper journalist, all of them part of his dynasty. So what was wrong with this picture? Nothing, the problem was what was about to enter this picture—Sierra Castille.

Roberto had to be careful, very careful. He had heard stories and if they were true, she could make their life a living hell. She could easily destroy everything that he had built through the years, everything held near and dear to him. If the rumours were true, she possessed evil powers and for some unknown reason had chosen Monte Cristi as her new home, not far from the Castaneda Villa. Why? Why had she chosen the Dominican Republic and why, of all the places she could have moved to in the Dominican she chose to become Roberto’s closest neighbour?

The sun had risen and cast its magic over the ocean. A red satin shimmer lay across the waves as Allegro trotted along the white sands at a slow pace. A lone rider galloped across the beach towards Roberto and caught up with him.

Buenos dios Diego, how are things with you?

Very good Roberto, we have extra men patrolling at the gate and farther down the beach. That’s Lorenzo up ahead and Nish is near the hospital.

Good said Roberto. Any problems with our new neighbours?

Actually, and he paused, actually there was an incident last night or rather early this morning.

Roberto glanced at Diego, what do you mean an incident?

Well, the guards at the gate . . . .

What about the guards at the gate? asked Roberto quickly as he glanced again at Diego.

That woman, Sierra, your new neighbour, she was there with those two men that are always with her. One is known as Jackal, the other, I think his name is Meridian and Diego shook his head and made a face, Meridian, ouch! Anyway, she had that animal with her, the Cheetah.

What were they doing at our front gates? I was not aware of this, why was I not contacted?

It was late Roberto, 3:00 A.M. and we handled it. No need to disturb you, we felt it could wait.

Why were they there and did they say what they wanted? said Roberto starting to feel alarmed. The situation that had occurred was too close to his family and he didn’t like it one bit. Diego paused and Roberto’s heart jumped.

She wanted to see Enrique said Diego quietly.

Roberto stopped so suddenly that Diego had to turn back. It’s okay Roberto, we got rid of them, they left. Roberto turned his horse around and Diego followed him. Ramon is at the Villa and Samouil is on the verandah, there is no reason to worry.

It’s not good enough said Roberto, we have to get those people out of our area—out of the Dominican. I will not have my family living in danger, not if I can help it. Come on Diego, we will get a jeep and make a visit to the Presidential Palace. It has already gone too far.

They rode back to the Villa and Roberto went inside to check on everyone taking Samouil and Diego with him. Frederik and Andre were having breakfast and Roberto sat at the table with Diego and Samouil beside him. Frederik looked at Roberto. Papa, what is wrong, what has happened? he said glancing at Samouil and Diego.

Did you know that Sierra was at our front gate at 3:00 this morning demanding to see Enrique? said Roberto in an angry tone.

Frederik stood up so quickly his chair fell backwards as Andre put down his fork and stared at Roberto. How does she know Enrique? he asked. She actually came to our gate?

Roberto nodded. Frederik had clenched his fists, anger in his eyes. He turned to leave and Roberto called out, Frederik, what are you doing, do not be foolish. Frederik ran up the stairs passing Ramon who was coming down.

What happen to Frederik? he said as he entered the dining room. Diego told him what had happened and Ramon suddenly looked dangerous.

Roberto, we get rid of her he said looking towards the stairs. Frederik went upstairs to see if his brother still there. You want to live like this? This is bad, very bad. She has eye on Enrique, I go kill her.

Wait Ramon, we have to make a plan. We can’t just go out and kill people like that. I have to think this out. It has become a very serious situation. There are guards with her and we don’t know how many.

It’s okay, no problem said Ramon. By the time you do thinking I kill them too, I make big clean up, fast and he turned to go.

Wait Ramon, wait said Roberto quickly, come back and sit down.

Ramon slowly turned, why, why you ask me to wait? I go myself; do everything, this open-close case, finish.

That’s open-shut case Ramon; anyway, just sit down for a minute. We have to talk.

Why, why talk? She wants your son and you want to talk? I not understand. Ramon was getting agitated.

Listen Ramon, we know she keeps a Cheetah with her all the time said Roberto.

That is nothing, so what said Ramon. You think Cheetah scares Ramon? I shoot all kinds of animals, human animals, animal animals . . . .

Hold it said Roberto holding up his hand and trying to interrupt him, we don’t know how many animals or bodyguards Sierra has and we have to find out more before we do anything.

Shane entered the room with Camille, both women with concerned faces. What is all the commotion? she asked in a worried tone, what has happened?

Upstairs, Frederik had entered his brother’s room and was relieved to see him there sleeping. Gemelo, wake up he said shaking him. I have to talk to you.

Enrique opened one eye and turned his face in the opposite direction. Go away Frederik, I’m really tired.

Frederik shook him again, Gemelo, look at me or I will pick you up, you know I can and I will.

Enrique opened his eyes and slowly sat up. What is so important that cannot wait until later? Okay, I’m awake, what is it?

Frederik sat on the bed. How do you know Sierra?

Enrique was starting to yawn and suddenly stopped halfway. Perdon? He was now wide awake and sat up staring at his brother.

She came to our gate early this morning and I mean early. At 3:00 A.M. she was looking for you with those two weirdos and the big cat. How do you know her?

Enrique pushed his hair back and shook his head. I don’t know her Frederik; she came into the hospital Emergency yesterday and I treated an injury to her hand. Did you say she was here at 3:00 this morning?

Si, anyway you say she came to the hospital and then what happened? said Frederik as his eyes flashed angrily. What did she say, what did she do, tell me everything. Frederik was beginning to sound concerned.

She came to our front gates? What did she want? said Enrique in bewilderment.

She wanted you but never mind that Gemelo, just tell me what she said to you; I have to know.

Enrique told his brother everything while Frederik’s eyes narrowed as he listened. There’s something wrong with her Gemelo, I think she is disturbed and dangerous. That is a pretty bad combination and she’s got her eye on you. I don’t like it.

She talks big, I’m not too concerned said Enrique, but I don’t like her nerve, to come almost to our front door in the middle of the night.

Diego was out there with several guards said Frederik. Too bad it wasn’t Ramon.

Enrique looked at him. Don’t underestimate Diego; he’s one of the best out here. You know that Frederik.

Oh, I know, he is excellent; I’m not putting him down, not at all. What I meant was if it had been Ramon out there, well . . . his tactics are different. He would have had them all shot and the Cheetah skinned in five minutes and somehow he would get away with it with no questions asked.

Enrique started to laugh and Frederik joined in just as they heard a knock at the door. Entrar called out Enrique and Roberto and Ramon entered the room.

Well, I’m glad you boys can find something to laugh about said Roberto. I take it, Enrique; you know what has happened and the seriousness of this situation?

Si papa, do not worry, it is not as bad as it sounds.

Is worse interrupted Ramon. Let me go visit them and I give them Ramon’s special welcome to neighbourhood, si?

No Ramon said Roberto; we will all have a meeting first. We will go about this the right way. I will go out to Juan Gomez and find out what can be done. That will give us the strength and the power of the President to back us.

I go with you said Ramon. I tell President what I think should be done.

No Ramon, you stay here said Roberto, we need you here. I will feel better knowing that you are here. Diego will accompany me. However, I don’t feel right about something he said with a thoughtful expression.

What’s bothering you? asked Ramon.

How can we keep Sierra away from the hospital? said Roberto. I don’t think we have a right to do that and in all probability she will return for treatment on her hand. We don’t want bad publicity but I also don’t want her in the same building as my son.

You go Roberto said Ramon angrily, you not worry over Enrique, I watch him. If hand bother her, I cut it off, no more trouble. Lorenzo stay with me, no problem. We not let her go near him.

Roberto smiled. I have full confidence in you Ramon, all of you. Gracias.

Roberto and Diego arrived at the Presidential Palace and were ushered into Juan Gomez’s office.

It is good to see you Roberto he said immediately arising from his chair and embracing Roberto. Diego, my good friend he said embracing him also. Now tell me Roberto, what is this problem that you are faced with?

Roberto wanted Sierra Castile out of the Country. He wanted to know if there was anything in her background that could make them legally expel her from the Dominican or even have her extradited if anything criminal could be proven in her background in which case she would be handed back to the country from which she came. He did not want interference or bad relations with Paraguay or cause ill feelings with any of the Latin American countries. Sometimes it didn’t take much to cause an international incident that could cause injury to their foreign connections.

Juan Gomez sat back with a concerned look on his face. Roberto, I find it most disturbing that she would be living so close to you and your family. It is a known fact that this woman has been involved with tragedy amongst her neighbours and this is why she keeps moving, four times in the past year. No one has been able to prove her involvement in the crimes she has left behind. Roberto, I don’t like it one bit, she seems to get away with it and she has spared no one. Six children have died mysteriously since last September and everything points to her. However, no one has been able to prove her connection to any of this. It’s one of those things, we all know it’s her doing but she covers up her tracks well. I want her out of your area; we must protect your family. Has anyone seen her dwelling, what’s it like or how many bodyguards she has in the area?

I do have some information said Diego to the astonishment of Roberto and Juan Gomez. It’s not much but we do know she’s in a very wooded area and actually her home is not visible from the road. We don’t know, as yet, how many guards or bodyguards there are inside the house but we do know that there are fourteen guards on the grounds and eight dogs—killer dogs. There are electric bars on the windows and a balcony in the back facing the wilderness. Besides the Cheetah she collects snakes and has three of them in her home which we have verified as poisonous. However, where she gets the snakes from is a mystery because to the best of my knowledge we do not have poisonous snakes here in the Dominican except for the Sankies, a blunt-headed green tree snake that’s moderately venomous. The ones we saw were not Sankies. And last but not least, there are two things that bother me a great deal besides all this. Diego paused as Roberto and Juan Gomez, who had been very quiet while the bodyguard had been talking stared at him and waited. The guns that her guards have in their possession we recognized as very sophisticated, probably amongst one of the best in the world.

Diego paused again and the President said and the other thing, Diego, that bothers you?

Diego looked at Roberto, his eyes were serious. She lives fifteen minutes from your home Roberto.

Good Lord! exclaimed Roberto, I didn’t realize she lived that close to us. When did you find out all of this Diego?

Soon after she moved in. We automatically get reports of anyone that enters the Dominican with resident papers and anything in their background that is suspicious. We follow up on people like that and keep a close watch on all of their movements. You will be receiving a full report on this shortly Roberto.

Roberto smiled. Gracias Diego, you men never fail to impress me with your quick thinking. Your commando training brings to us an extra dimension when we are faced with situations such as this.

She is already pretty upset, something to do with Enrique said Diego. Whatever we do, I think we should not waste too much time. She’s dangerous and we don’t want to give her a chance to cause any more tragedies.

I can have Enrique relocated said the President until we get Sierra out of the Country and . . .

Roberto cut Juan Gomez short. Get Enrique relocated? repeated Roberto. Juan, do you think my son will allow this to happen? You don’t know him as well as you think. He would never agree to that.

Please Roberto said the President with a sigh, give me some credit. This will not be a problem for me. Diego, as soon as I get clearance you will get full permission from me to go ahead with extraditing the young lady.

Roberto smiled and Juan Gomez looked at him curiously. What are you thinking Roberto that makes you smile during such a grave situation?

I was just thinking of Ramon. If he was here he would have something to say if he had heard you refer to Sierra as ‘young lady.’

I’m sure of that said the President also grinning. I’ve heard him refer to her as ‘She Devil’ and who knows what else.

I’ve heard the ‘what else’ Senor, said Diego looking down but I am reluctant to repeat it.

I understand said the President still grinning. Anyway, let us know what you will need to carry out your mission. She’s overstayed her welcome and we are about to change all that.

You said they carried top guns, Diego which means she has access to imported ammunition? said Roberto.

Diego nodded. Very sophisticated machine guns Roberto. They obviously have connections with notorious, influential suppliers. But that is not a problem; we can easily find out who they are.

Very well done Diego said the President, I know how capable you are and I have full confidence in what you are doing. In the meantime I think we should have Ramon along with another Da Elegido to accompany Enrique when he goes to the hospital and leave the rest up to me. I will keep you informed on everything but—we must move fast. The meeting ended and Roberto and Diego left.

Shane’s parents were arriving later in the day and would be staying for a week and Roberto wanted to keep everything as normal as possible. Shane was overjoyed; she hadn’t seen her parents for quite some time and was helping Rosita to plan the meals. Camille was off to school accompanied by Lorenzo instead of Ramon who was staying close to Enrique along with Samouil at the hospital. So far, everything seemed quiet and they waited for President Gomez to get back to them.

Chapter Three

Frederik had been initially fascinated by Sierra but all that changed when he found out what she was really like and especially her actions towards Enrique. He was looking forward to seeing his grandparents and cancelled all his plans so that he could spend most of his time with them. Shane’s parents arrived and no one talked about Sierra but they did receive a telegram from Terry, Shane’s brother, informing them that he would be arriving in a few days to spend some time with everyone and have a reunion. Everything seemed idyllic for part of the week and everyone seemed to be enjoying each other’s company during this rare family time that was being shared by all. Skye, Maria and Marc Shai stayed at the Villa for a few days and Lorena and her mom came over every day which pleased Roberto as he watched everyone enjoying themselves.

When Terry arrived, it seemed as if the gloom lifted and once again the laughter could be heard throughout the Villa and spilling out to the beach. Terry was definitely good medicine and everything seemed to be going well. And then it happened.

No one had seen or heard anything from Sierra’s area for about a week until suddenly she had turned up at the hospital looking for Enrique. Meridian waited in the lobby with the Cheetah on a leash and Jackal accompanied Sierra to the Emergency. She did not see Enrique and as she turned down the hallway she saw Samouil standing outside a room holding his machine gun. She approached and Samouil stared at her without moving. Sierra glanced inside the room and saw Enrique bending over a patient and then she saw Ramon. She recognized him and hesitated. Samouil was watching her closely and he smirked and stepped aside.

You want to go in? Good luck he said just as Ramon looked up and his eyes met Sierra’s. She immediately stiffened but it was too late. Ramon came out of the room so quickly that Sierra did not have time to step back.

What followed even surprised Samouil who had learned to never underestimate Ramon. Everyone knew that Ramon was totally unpredictable but what he did portrayed his rage. It was supposed to be a slap but coming from Ramon it was more like an assault. It was brutal and powerful causing Sierra’s head to snap to the side. Her hair flew around her face and the sound echoed in the hall. Jackal caught her arm or she would have fallen and Samouil already had his gun sticking into the man’s back. Enrique had also witnessed the now famous slap when he watched Ramon leave the room quickly and Ramon was not finished. His gun was under Jackal’s chin thrust deeply against his throat and the scar on his face throbbed.

Sierra was obviously shocked—she moved her hand away from the side of her face and red welts appeared across her cheek. Blood was trickling down her face as she stood there and it was at that precise moment Enrique came out of the room.

Next time you come here I kill you hissed Ramon as he stood in front of Enrique. She looked at Enrique then at Ramon with dazed eyes then turned around and walked down the hallway followed by Jackal who had been relieved of his gun by Samouil. As they disappeared around the corner Ramon turned to Enrique and spoke angrily. You stay home until we get rid of them, comprende?

Enrique’s mouth had dropped open. Holy Mother of God Ramon, I’ve never seen anyone hit like that."

Obviously said Samouil, you haven’t seen Ramon demonstrate his unorthodox training.

Never mind training said Ramon and he turned to Enrique, do you have more work to do here? If not, we leave. I have to finish something.

Ramon, there’s always something to do here, we’re never done and besides I’ve only been here a few hours. My God man, did you have to hit her like that?

That is only number four hit on scale one to ten. She very lucky, has nerve coming here looking for you. You not afraid?

Heck no Ramon, as long as I have you slapping women like that and Samouil the gun collector, what is there to be afraid of? I still have rounds to make. There was a hint of anger in Enrique’s tone.

Okay, we make rounds together da chiflado said Ramon walking with him down the hall. Enrique turned to Samouil; see, he calls me crazy, nuts and mad. He’s married to my sister and should show more respect, do you not think so?

That is Ramon’s way of saying I respect you said Samouil as the three of them went down the stairs.

*     *     *

Roberto rode with Ramon as he made his regular midnight patrol on the beach. Usually this would be a relaxing moment for both riders but today it was serious.

Roberto, you not realize what Frederik capable of. You under . . . under . . . cannot think of word. He is brave, more than you think. What is that word under . . . ?

Do you mean underestimate? Are you telling me I underestimate Frederik?

Si, that is it, you under . . . estimate him. This is crazy word but you know what I mean. Anyway, he surprise me, he something else.

Surprise you? In what way? said Roberto curiously.

I start him on Da Elegido manoeuvres but go easy said Ramon. He already has military training, he handles this good. Then today, Ramon stopped and gave a big sigh, we advance into danger.

Danger! Roberto paused then said what kind of danger, discipline or survival?

Ramon spoke quietly. You said be tough but not too tough. We did both.

Roberto stared; he knew what Ramon was talking about. You take a full week to go through each one. Are you telling me you put Frederik through both in less than a week?

Ramon sounded almost apologetic. He surprise me Roberto, he is so valeroso, valiente. He more gutsy than Samouil, he faster than Lorenzo, he take what I give and waits for more. Did you know he like that? I not know this. Why we not know until now? And he not cry, he is like you.

Roberto had been told by the Academy in Switzerland that physically, Frederik was capable of remarkable feats. However, to be able to impress Ramon, that in itself was remarkable enough. Is he okay Ramon? It’s hard to tell with him because I’ve never heard him complain. Where is he now?

At Villa I hope said Ramon. Then he looked very serious.

What is it? said Roberto.

Ramon’s voice was very low. Roberto, do not hold him back, Frederik is Da Elegido.

Roberto looked at him as he spoke. I’m going back, I’d better see if he is okay. Um, how far did you get today . . . how much more training does he need to finish?

Ramon looked surprised. To finish? That’s what I try to tell you, he is finished. Two days discipline, two days survival, he also has special military training from Academy and rest of week I teach him what I know. He become Da Elegido in one week, one week Roberto. He better than anyone I know. He is okay, he can take it. Then he say to me don’t be afraid Ramon, I can take it. Imagine, he say to me don’t be afraid, me, Ramon. So I give him survival training, not wait for next day like anyone else because he not like anyone else.

But Ramon said Roberto that takes a week, how can you do that?

That’s what I try to tell you. He doesn’t need week Roberto. Don’t worry, he is okay. I also teach him what to do if caught—you know, prisoner. He is okay, nothing happen, not much. He knows what to do.

Okay Ramon, it’s late, I’m going back said Roberto as he dug his heels into Allegro. See you tomorrow he called out as he galloped back to the Villa. Sometimes, he thought, you just couldn’t tell how serious Ramon was or how unorthodox his methods were.

It was almost midnight when Roberto returned. He did not want to disturb Frederik if he was asleep but he had to know, he had to see him. He went upstairs and down the hall until he reached his door. There was no sound and Roberto hesitated. He had never walked into his room without knocking but maybe he was asleep and he had to see. Slowly and quietly he opened the door and stepped inside. Frederik’s bed was empty—he was not in his room. Roberto quickly left and went downstairs and looked in the kitchen then the library and raced out of the Villa.

Two gendarmes stood talking by the gate and shook their heads when Roberto asked them if they had seen Frederik. He went quickly towards the stable, his heart beating fast and he knew he had to get his emotions under control. Calm down Roberto he said to himself, you’re supposed to be strong, shake it. Maybe the manoeuvres were too much for Frederik. He would feel responsible if anything happened. Maybe Ramon went too far. Stop it, smarten up Roberto he said admonishing himself, he is okay. Frederik’s horse was still in the stall and Roberto was thinking fast. He came out of the stable and followed the path. It was now very dark but he walked until he reached the table with the large umbrella. A lone figure was seated, his back to him but Roberto knew who it was. Not wanting to take him by surprise he cleared his throat and walked up to him.

Frederik did not flinch. He sat facing the ocean, a cigarette in his hand, his shirt open. Roberto stood beside him and looked down at his son. Frederik did not turn but Roberto had to see his face. He sat down and looked at him but Frederik kept looking out towards the horizon as if he were alone and not acknowledging his papa.

Look at me said Roberto and Frederik slowly turned and looked at him. A cool breeze was blowing around them, the sound of the ocean was almost eerie in the darkness and the face looking at his was too calm, but it was the eyes that bothered him—they were different, but how? And the cigarette, where did that come from? Who was this person, where was his son and what had happened to Frederik?

Hola papa he said inhaling the cigarette and turning his face away as he exhaled.

I was not aware that you smoked, my son. When did you start?

An hour ago papa and I apologize to you sir; please forgive me. It did not even sound like Frederik and Roberto was at a loss for words. They sat quietly just taking in the calmness of the night but it didn’t help and Roberto had to know.

What happened Frederik? I am concerned, are you okay?

Frederik turned and looked at Roberto again. Those eyes, whose eyes were they?

Am I okay? You want to know what happened? Frederik hesitated and took another drag on the cigarette, again turning his face away from his papa as he exhaled. He then turned back and looked at him. Those eyes, different, changed, like cold blue steel. Roberto waited, then Frederik spoke.

"Papa, I am more than okay. I am euphoric, elated and very happy. Papa, I know—I know what I want, I know who I am, I am at peace with myself.

Roberto kept staring at his son and a sudden sadness swept over him. It seemed as if the Frederik he knew was gone, the eyes looked older. Yes, that was it, older and the softness was gone. Ramon had overdone it because Frederik had insisted on continuing the manoeuvres telling him he could take it. Being able to handle easily the challenges that Ramon had put him through had excited him and made him feel powerful. The person who had emerged was different and the damage had been done. No wonder Ramon was impressed. He had never seen anyone, in all the men he had trained, to be so close to perfection while performing the intricate and dangerous manoeuvres that he had put them through. It was almost as if a superhuman had been discovered and Ramon knew it and soon Roberto would know it. Frederik now knew what he was capable of and only time would tell how this would affect his future.

Roberto looked at his son, his eyes were shining, his face was calm, self-assured and extremely confident and he wondered what Shane, Enrique and Camille would think. He knew that Andre would pick it up immediately.

It’s getting quite cool my son, we should turn in. Are you not cold? asked Roberto looking at him.

Frederik shook his head. You go ahead papa, I will be in soon. Ve con Dios papa, I love you.

I love you too said Roberto ruffling Frederik’s hair and may God be with you also my son, always. Roberto turned and walked away. He felt sadness inside but at the same time he felt a great deal of pride. Welcome to the real world Frederik he said softly. I pray the Almighty will protect you always. You will need it.

Frederik took another puff on the cigarette and blew out the smoke. He looked out towards the ocean deep in thought and his eyes narrowed. He liked the new Frederik, he liked the person that Ramon had changed him into—no, not changed, just brought out. He clenched his fists and stretched out his arms and he could feel the strength and power inside him. What was it about power that made men throughout the centuries declare wars to obtain it? He looked up and the full moon was shining down and it was perfect. Perfect said Frederik, si, perfeccionisimo.

He got up quickly, he must get his rest and he had to be ready in the morning to see Ramon. He must continue, he had to be perfect, si, he would surprise even Ramon. He walked back along the path to the Villa and the two guards at the gate waved to him and he waved back. It was quite late when he entered the Villa quietly so as not to awaken anyone going directly to his room. He felt different, he felt reborn and he liked the feeling of being above-average, almost divine.

*     *     *

Roberto had gone to bed with mixed feelings. He tossed and turned throughout the night and finally got up just as the sun was beginning to rise. He did not want to awaken Shane but would talk to her later. Riding always had a relaxing effect on Roberto and he entered the stable and saddled Allegro. When he came out he noticed someone coming towards him on horseback. As he approached, Roberto did not recognize him and the rider stopped at the path that led to the beach and waited.

Buenos dias Senor said the rider as Roberto approached. Roberto stopped and looked at him. Buenos dias, I don’t believe I know you. Are you new here?

Si Signor, I am, how you say, a protégé of Ramon. I have been here two days.

Two days, hmm said Roberto. Your name?

Si Signor, I am Nish, just Nish. I know you are Comandante Roberto Castaneda, and it would be an honour for me to accompany you on the beach, with your permission Signor Comandante.

Roberto looked curiously at the young man. He had dark eyes that seemed to portray an intelligence and his face looked very serious. Okay Nish, take the path and I will follow. The young man was obviously delighted as he rode down the path towards the beach and waited at the end for Roberto.

The sun had already set and it was the most beautiful part of the day—early morning. Everything was fresh and new, the sky was starting to show shades of pink mixed with the blue and the only sound to be heard was the soft thud of the horses’ hooves as they trotted across the sand. Lorenzo and Samouil were nowhere in sight and it was a good chance to find out more about Nish who rode confidently and very straight beside him.

Tell me Nish said Roberto glancing at him, "you said that you were a protégé of Ramon? I