Disclaimer: This was written for the soul purpose of my entertainment. I lay no claim on Walker Texas Ranger or any of its characters.
"Westfield Isle"
Part 3
The Recovery
By: Janis Boisclair
jboisclair@rogers.com
Ranger Headquarters Dallas
Alex Walker sat patiently with Erica Trivette and Julie Gage in Walker's office waiting for Walker and Trivette to take them to the chapel for the memorial service for Michael DuBois and Gage. Julie had been staying with her and Walker she couldn't bring herself to go to Sydney and Francis' apartment. She insisted she wanted everything the same when Sydney came home.
"You know I was suppose to becoming here next month to marry Michael not to burying him," Julie finished her statement off in a whisper and tears.
Erica took her hand as Alex's arm tightened around her shoulder. "I'm going to go and see what is taking Trivette and Walker so long," Erica stated squeezing Julie's hand before heading for the door.
Opening the door she caught sight of the two men's backs as they stood looking at a television. The two of them blocked the screen from her view, so closing the door she moved up behind her husband to see what was capturing their attention. Putting her hand on Trivette's shoulder she peered around him at the screen to catch Sydney and Gage in the water holding each others hands as a dolphin swam between them.
Jimmy's arm went around his wife and he pulled her close as their eyes stayed on the screen Gage had just dove under the water pulling Syd under with him.
Erica quickly wiped the tear from her eye asking, "Where did you get this?"
"It came today you can have a video made when you swim with the dolphins. It was part of their trip," Trivette absently replied.
The video came to an end and Walker clicked it off, "We have to get going," he said turning to his office to escort Alex and Julie to the cars.
Aboard The 'Martillo De Blarney'
Francine Boisvert rolled over in the cramped bunk to reach for Philippe Martez. She had been sharing his quarters for the past couple of weeks since the incident concerning that silly old woman in the market. Of course if Philippe hadn't made a mistake and let Julie Gage escape death there wouldn't be a problem. Now they had that snivelling sister of his to deal with over the fact that the Gage woman got her share of the estate. The only one remotely happy was Anton he had the prize he wanted on his island. At least this turn of events had worked out for her. Instead of being left in Nassau waiting for Philippe's return she was actually travelling with him.
"Philippe?" she called out to him getting no answer. "Hmm," she pouted throwing back the covers stretching her tall lean body before swinging her legs out of bed to stand. Again she stretched trying to decide if she should go back to bed or get dressed and go look for the captain. She caught her refection in the mirror and stood there a moment to study her reflection. The cabin door clicked quietly open and she sensed her lover entering as she continued to gaze at her reflection.
Martez silently walked up behind her and gazed over her shoulder at her reflection too. "You are a very beautiful woman Francine," he murmured to her bending his head letting his lips meet her shoulder. "I thought you would sleep all day."
"After the workout you gave me last night…" they both grinned remembering what last night had entailed.
"I have to make a few unscheduled stops in the next few days when my business is done there should be some time for us to take in the sights, do some shopping, enjoy each other's company," he whispered kissing her cheek, her neck and back to her shoulder.
Francine turned in his arms and smiled asking, "And what about the problem with Lynn?"
"There will be lots of time to take care of Lynn's problem with the Gage woman when we get back," he smiled pulling her tight against him and roughly kissing her.
"Umm," she purred pushing them back against the bed.
Westfield Island Present Day
It was beginning to get light evidence that another day was dawning. Gage's eyes were fixed on Sydney as they lay in bed his arms around her his mind going back to the night he had freed her from Anton Westfield. Even now if he closed his eyes he could hear the docks and boats going up in a fiery explosion all over again. The smell of the dense smoke as he had lain across Sydney protecting her. His eyes flew open and he swallowed hard, protecting her he half laughed at the words knowing and hating he wasn't there when she really needed him to protect her, knowing he had let her down.
Syd pulled herself closer to him and he looked down at her his mind once again going to that night…
He had flung himself over top of her when the shooting had started and had fired back. Then everything around them began exploding.
"Sydney, Syd are you hurt?" he cried out his hand going to her face that was wet with tears. Another explosion sounded and he flung himself across her to protect her again. Her hands were clutching tightly to him, he could feel her nails digging into him as she cried over and over again, "Don't leave me Gage, don't leave me."
"You okay?" it was the voice of Kim Hu; his hand was on Gage's shoulder.
He hesitated a moment before answering, "yes fine. You and Lin?" His eyes still hadn't left his wife.
"We okay," the elder man replied, "the boats all gone."
Gage's eyes wandered to what was left of the docks, one of the warehouses was on fire and the boats their only means of escape had all been destroyed. "Is there anyone else left alive?"
"I don't know I haven't seen anyone," Lin told them glancing around in every direction.
"Come we go back to the house," Kim urged. Gage looked down into Syd's face her body was trembling against his he nodded his head in agreement and picking her up in his arms started back to Westfield's house.
"Gage what is it?" Syd was looking up into his face.
"Morning Honey," he smiled leaning down to kiss her.
"Francis everything all right?" she asked again feeling him draw her closer yet her fears were always there. She knew that he loved her and it went without saying how much she loved and needed him but was that enough to get them past this.
"Everything is all right Syd," he softly spoke to her his fingers playing against her cheek. "And it always will be if you're by my side."
She pushed his chest rolling him on his back sliding on top of him feeling his arms go around her. She brought her fingers to his face gently rubbing her thumb across his lip letting him draw it into his mouth for a moment to suck on it. Her dark brown eyes fixed on his equally blue ones as both let their minds drift to a time before any of this had happened. Her head bent to his and her lips were on his both yielding to a deep held passion they had for each other now and always.
Syd broke the kiss her arms going tightly around his neck as she laid her head on his chest. "I wanted to be dead Gage, I thought you were dead and I wanted to be dead too. After he raped me I just kept hoping that the next time that needle went in my arm it would kill me."
"Oh Sydney…" Gage started his pain for her breaking his heart once again.
She pulled her head up and looked into his eyes again whispering, "Shh let me finish Gage. The night you rescued me, parts of it are still a blur. I remember I was struggling with him I knew what he was going to do to me. I want you to know I was trying to fight him… I didn't want him…"
She couldn't go on her head had fallen to his chest again and he tightly held her rolling them over as if by some magical touch this could save her from the hurt.
"Sydney listen to me," Gage ordered her and waited until she could nod her head yes. "I saw what happened that night. I saw Westfield towering over you; saw him holding your arm to inject more drugs into you. I heard what he said how he was going to have you. I saw your face, heard your pleas and felt your pain. You have suffered enough for what he did to you. I only want to share you and love you no matter what has happened. I'm trying hard to forgive myself for not being able to stop them from taking you and bringing you here to him. For not being able to stop him from… You have to do the same forgive yourself there was nothing either of us could have done."
It was at this point she knew he was right, knew she could trust him and knew she could once again take comfort in his love for her.
Key West
Allison Kovack took another sip of her morning coffee as she sat at the little breakfast bar in her tiny kitchen. She fingered the ivory and gold barrette that sat on the counter in front of her. She hadn't been able to get the incident with Julie Gage and those Texas Rangers out of her mind. It had just been something about the look in Julie's face that had stayed with her and she couldn't shake.
She glanced at the clock on the wall she had thought she would sleep late today and spend the afternoon on the beach but the phone had rang at seven. It had been Zeke calling her. Three weeks had gone by since she had last laid eyes on him or even heard his voice on the phone, now here he was big as life calling her. He was going to be there the next day set some time aside for him he wanted to see her.
Julie had told her she was staying at the Dubois Hotel; she had been there plenty of times with Zeke and his boss Anton Westfield. In fact the last time they were there was the night that cute blonde guy had knocked Westfield to the floor for bothering his wife. She smiled at the recollection she didn't care for Westfield that much.
Michael DuBois had come in with Julie on his arm sized up the situation and tossed Westfield and his whole party out that included her and Zeke. When she asked about it he had become outraged. "After all the money Mr. Westfield spends on us you even think to question what he says or does." He had stormed at her; in fact he was so mad she feared he was going to hit her.
Hesitating a minute more she picked up the phone and dialled. "Is Julie Gage there?" she asked.
~~~~~
Walker and Alex had tried to get Julie to stay just a little longer with them but she insisted that she needed to get back; she needed to be by the ocean so she was closer to Michael and Francis. She also wanted to search more for Sydney but refrained from saying so until she had something concrete to tell them.
She had arrived late last night thankfully Lynn had left and she had her old suite back. She had just gotten up and ordered some coffee when her phone rang.
"Hello," she answered.
"Hello this is Allison Kovack, I don't know if you remember me or not I met you a few weeks ago I have something that belongs to your sister-in-law.
Julie sank to the bed phone still at her ear as pictures of Francis and Sydney jumped to her mind. Sydney swaying her hair that she had just had braided, showing off the barrette, her brother pulling her close and nuzzling her ear. "Are you still there?" Allison's voice brought Julie back to the moment.
"Yes, yes what can I do for you Allison?" Julie asked excitedly.
"I've been thinking about our encounter… this barrette… I mean I think it could be your sister-in-laws," Allison stuttered out. "I just can't get it out of my mind. You are absolutely sure that there isn't another one?"
"Allison we went back to the woman who sold it to my brother she told us it was an antique a one of a kind," Julie confirmed to her.
"She isn't mistaken?"
Julie thought back about the poor woman lying mortally wounded in the street because of what she had told them. "Yes I'm sure she wasn't mistaken."
"All right then but if I help you, you have to help me. If he finds out I talked to you he'll kill me I know he will."
"Allison I'll do what ever it takes to make sure you are safe."
Allison hesitated for a moment before saying, "Zeke called me he is coming here tomorrow morning."
Ranger Headquarters Dallas
The phone rang, Trivette was no where in sight and Walker had three candidates sitting outside his office hoping to fill the positions that had been left open by Sydney and Gage.
"Walker," he said as he snatched up the phone.
"It's me Julie I'm not catching you at a bad time am I?"
"No," Walker lied but actually glad for the diversion. "What can I do for you?"
"Zeke McCall, I'm going to meet him tomorrow morning," she revealed the excitement showing in her voice.
"Julie what are you talking about?"
She quickly explained what was going on. "Walker this may be the only chance I have to find out what happened to Sydney."
"You don't go near McCall by yourself," he warned her looking at the three sitting outside his office. Trivette had just walked through the door and he waved him inside. "We're on our way," he reiterated as he hung up the phone.
"Where are we going partner?" Trivette asked.
"Key West."
Trivette stared at Walker for a moment before following his partner out.
Westfield Island
Syd's foot came up catching Gage in the side of the head as she spun around to attack with her foot again. He easily caught hold of her pulling her other foot out from under her pinning her from the side to the ground.
"Change your strategy a little Honey you're becoming predictable," her husband instructed her.
"You mean like this?" she asked swinging her legs up and catching his neck in a scissor hold. She pulled him back at the same time sitting up herself breaking the hold he had on her.
"Yeah something like that," he laughed twisting loose grabbing her in his arms in the process. He leaned down and kissed her soundly her arm going around his neck.
"You aren't going to beat them like that," Lin called coming into sight.
"That's true Lin but I think Syd has given me enough of a work out today," Gage replied not looking up from her eyes.
"Are you going to teach me more after lunch today Sydney?" Lin asked.
Gage was helping Syd to her feet as she answered, "Yep, you're picking this up quick you'll be able to take on Gage before much longer."
"If I can hold my own against those on the 'Martillo De Blarney' I will be happy," she replied. Grandfather has lunch ready and he said to hurry or he would be feeding it to the livestock. Both Syd and Gage smiled being able to hear Kim Hu utter the words to his granddaughter to relay to them.
"Tell him we'll be right there as soon as we clean up a bit," Gage smiled slinging his arm around Syd.
"Okay," she laughed running down the trail ahead of them.
"You really think we have to worry about the 'Martillo De Blarney' Gage?"
"Yeah and we have to be ready we know how deadly they are all ready," he replied holding her a little closer.
They walked slowly towards the house keeping to their own thoughts until they came to the foot of the stairs leading up to the porch where Syd stopped them.
"Gage it is Martez we need to be afraid of he is ruthless and his crew is fiercely loyal to him. He commands authority and his crew respects him for it," she finished standing in front of him her hands holding tight to his arms her fingers pressing in.
"You don't have to tell me that Syd I saw what he did to Julie and Michael," he grimly told her letting his arms go around her and his hands come to rest on her behind.
"I know you did," she tried to smile instead of letting tears fall, "I'm sorry Gage I guess I'm just scared."
He hooked his finger under her chin and lifted her face to his, "I know Honey that makes both of us, but that has never stopped us before." She smiled a true smile this time and he smiled back whispering, "that's my girl."
~~~~~
Lin and her grandfather were both in the kitchen when they came down the backstairs to join them.
"You late," Kim Hu crossly told them as they took their places at the table.
"We're sorry," Syd began to apologize to the grizzled old man.
"You see it don't happen again or you go hungry young lady," he threatened serving up the lunch. Lin as well as Syd and Gage all tried to hide the smiles that were creeping across their faces.
After lunch Lin and Syd went to practice Gage stayed behind to keep Kim company. He would have offered his assistance in cleaning up but had learnt earlier on that this was the old man's domain and not to interfere.
Gage silently watched Kim as he cleared away the dirty dishes putting them in the sink to wash. Neither had to speak to enjoy the other's company. As Kim finished up he turned a minute to face Gage, "Sydney okay now?" he asked.
"She's much better," he replied.
"Not much better, okay?" he asked again. "That Mr. Westfield was bad, he hurt her and hurt her."
Gage had turned his head from the old man murmuring softly, "I know he did."
"It's good you come she need you. You help make her whole person again," he told Gage. "You help each other be okay."
"I think you're right Kim neither of us are much good without the other.
Kim rested his hand on Gage's shoulder, "We beat Captain Martez. I know we will."
Gage wished he had the confidence the kindly gentleman had.
~~~~~
Kim walked with Gage down to where the girls were having their daily practice. It was the same spot as the two of them had been earlier. Watching his wife he knew she was at the top of her game once more.
"Those bad guys will be running scared when you get back on the streets of Dallas Syd," he called out to her.
"Sure Gage," she laughed picking up a towel to wipe her face at the same time and letting it hang around her neck. Turning to Lin she commented to the girl, "Good work out."
"Thanks Sydney you are a good teacher," she replied also picking up a towel to wipe her face.
"Hey Shorty coming for a walk with me I want to check the island's perimeter?" Gage asked. She smiled and nodded her head yes it had been a long time since he had called her that and it felt so very comfortable.
"We'll be a couple of hours you know what to do if there is any sign of trouble?" Gage knew he didn't need to ask Kim but they both felt better when he did.
Taking Syd's hand they started on their trek. They walked this same path every second day to make sure everything was ready in case some how Martez had got an inkling that his brother no longer ruled his little kingdom and was mounting a sneak attack as he had. They checked on the few surprises that Gage had rigged up for anyone not expecting it making sure the triggers hadn't been tripped. All was as they had left it two days earlier.
As they came out of the dense forest on the far side of the island a lone seagull screamed and landed on the beach. Gage put his arm around Sydney as he stared off into the water; this is where he had come ashore that night.
"Gage lets stop being serious for just a little bit," Syd implored him her hands already going beneath his shirt lifting it up to pull off of him. "Let's go for a swim, just play in the surf a little."
"Play in the surf a little?" he smiled loving that she was so relaxed, letting her pull his shirt over his head exposing his bronzed chest and shoulders to her. She guided her hands across his breast her thumbs gently teasing his nipples. He closed his eyes letting the emotions she was stirring in him come slowly to the surface as his hands moved beneath her shirt, pulling it over her head too. She looked into his blue eyes a small smile coming across her face knowing he was looking at her breasts enjoying her.
"Francis," she laughed putting her arms around his neck and bringing herself against him. "Please don't ever change."
"What?" he innocently asked a grin coming across his face before leaning down to kiss her.
She gave him a little push and wiggled out of her shorts making a run for the waves that were crashing in diving under the water. As she surfaced so did her husband right beside her. He reached for her bringing her against him once again tenderly kissing her lips feeling her hands move up the back of his neck and through his hair. Her legs were moving around him and he made for the beach falling with her in the wet sand the waves crashing against them then rolling back out to the sea to come crashing in again.
Gage lay on his back his eyes closed letting his wife have him. She bent to him licking the salty water from him before taking him in her mouth. He moaned slightly and her eyes went to his face her hands rubbing over his hard stomach.
"Syd Honey he whispered trying to reach for her. She raised her head and murmured, "You've been looking after me Gage for a while now let me look after you, let me have you."
"Yes Syd," he agreed feeling her hand moving on him and then her mouth engulfing him as he clenched handfuls of wet sand. She watched his face his enjoyment written there her own excitement beginning and quickly letting go swung her leg over him lowering herself on him to enjoy the pleasure too.
His strong arms went around her and he rolled them over taking command from her. His lips went to her breast his teeth holding the hard nub, biting gently and sucking hard. As the next wave crashed in on them, their love and emotions crashed hard against them too.
They lay quietly not moving in each other's arms, Syd was smiling she didn't cry.
Outside Allison Kovack's Apartment
Julie Gage sat between Walker and Trivette as they watched Allison Kovack's apartment. It was ten fifteen and Julie was beginning to think that she had gotten the two rangers here from Dallas for nothing, not to mention sending Allison back there for protective custody.
"I'm really sorry about this," she had begun to say as a dark blue sports car pulled up and Zeke McCall jumped out.
"Don't speak too soon Julie," Walker smiled as both he and Trivette opened their doors to get out.
McCall had rapped lightly on the door and not getting an immediate answer had pounded furiously on it yelling, "Come on Allison open up it's me."
"Maybe she's not home," Trivette offered he and Walker coming up behind the man.
"Who are you two?" McCall questioned knowing that they had to be the law.
"Texas Rangers looking for one of our own," Walker answered.
"Well in case you hadn't noticed we're in Florida not Texas," McCall sneered at them.
"We noticed all right," Trivette continued, "the thing of it is Ranger Cooke, Ranger Gage's wife was last seen in Florida. Then just to complicate things a little more your friend Allison here was seen wearing an expensive one-of-a-kind barrette that belongs to Ranger Cooke or should I say Mrs. Gage."
McCall's eyes darted from Trivette to Walker not sure what they actually did know. "You have no jurisdiction down here."
"That may or may not be true," Walker agreed, "We may have just come here to find our Ranger any way we deem fit. We might just take you out into the middle of the gulf and put a bullet in you then leave you for the sharks. We could just sail right on back home no one be the wiser."
"That's what you, Westfield and Martez do isn't it?" Trivette asked.
McCall knew he had to escape Walker and Trivette coming across with a punch into Trivette's stomach. Walker quickly retaliated for his partner and with a couple of quick punches had McCall down on the ground. Trivette quickly had the cuffs out and on the man dragging him to his feet.
"Where is she?" Julie Gage was demanding to know. She had jumped from the truck when the fight had started. McCall recognized her immediately his mouth dropped open and closed just as quickly. "I know you know you tell me where she is," Julie screamed running at him fists flailing. Trivette caught hold of her pulling her away from McCall as Walker took him over to the sheriff's department who were waiting for him.
"I want to be there for the interrogation Walker," Julie told him more then asked him.
"Julie are you sure about that?" Trivette asked still holding on to her.
"I'm sure he knows where she is just as sure as I'm standing here and I want to be there when he tells us," she firmly stated as Trivette let up on her.
"All right, all right you win," Trivette replied throwing his hands up thinking to himself her brother was a lot easier to stand up to then her.
They followed to the sheriff's office and McCall was taken into interrogation and Julie to observation.
Trivette began, "Well we know Westfield and Martez are half brothers, that Westfield had a fascination for Sydney Gage and he and her husband had a fight over her the night before they left on their cruise.
Trivette paused and McCall looked straight ahead ignoring him so Jimmy continued. "We know that Martez attacked the 'Precious Jules' leaving everyone for dead and blowing her out of the water with the exception of Ranger Sydney Cooke Gage. He took her to his brother didn't he?"
Again a stony silence and McCall stared straight ahead.
"We know you have seen her you gave Mrs. Gage's barrette to your girlfriend, so that leads us to believe you have her or you know who does."
After four hours of continuous questions they had still come up empty handed. Finally Walker took the sheriff aside while Julie stood with Trivette. They both watched the senior ranger as he conferred with the sheriff.
"What do you think that is all about?" Julie whispered to Trivette.
"I don't know but I'd put money on Walker finding out if Sydney is dead or alive and where she is by the end of today," Trivette replied as they both kept their eyes on the two men.
"Julie," Walker spoke as he motioned her over. "Can we get access to the Hotel yacht?"
"I don't see why not," she confirmed.
"When can we be ready to cast off?"
"Give me a minute and I'll see," she told them pulling her cell phone and dialing.
While Julie talked on the phone Trivette looked at his partner his face silently questioning.
"If Sydney and Gage could swim with the dolphins I'm sure Mr. McCall can swim with the sharks," Walker supplied as Trivette looked even more confused.
He didn't have any more time to think about it Julie had snapped her phone closed saying, "She is in dock can be ready to go within the hour. I told them to go ahead and make it ready."
"Let's go fishing and see if we can find Sydney," Walker announced.
Aboard the Dubois Hotel Yacht
"Where are you taking me?" McCall demanded to know.
"Little sight seeing tour," Walker replied as they took McCall aboard the boat still in handcuffs.
"I don't need any boat ride or sight seeing tour," he told them in no uncertain terms.
"Easy solution to that," Trivette piped up, "tell us where Ranger Cooke is."
Again McCall said nothing.
"Miss Gage," the captain had come forward. "Where are we headed?"
"Straight out into international waters," Julie told him.
McCall's head snapped around to stare at Julie. "Where are we going?" he demanded again.
"You'll see when we get there Mr. McCall," the sheriff informed him smiling at Walker. With that being said they took him over and sat him in one of the deck chairs making sure that his right hand was secured tightly with the handcuffs to the boat railing.
While the rest headed up top Trivette took a seat opposite McCall pulling his hat down low over his eyes pretending sleep.
"Hey you Texas Ranger," McCall called out to Trivette. "Are you going to tell me what's going on?"
Trivette tipped his hat back up so he could see McCall's face and smiled before speaking. "Remember how Walker said he might just shoot you a couple of times and leave you for the sharks?"
McCall stared at Trivette trying to decide if he was pulling a fast one on him or not. "Yeah right," he snickered.
"Believe what you want but you got two strikes going against you on this one. First you know who was behind killing Ranger Francis Gage and you know who has his wife. There isn't a law enforcement officer in the land who takes kindly to another officer being killed or kidnapped," Trivette began to explain. "Something you don't know is to what lengths Ranger Walker will go to get the answers he wants. That story he told you about feeding you to the sharks," Trivette let a slow purposeful smile come across his face, "I've seen him do it before."
McCall had begun to fidget yanking on the handcuff that had him secured to the boat. "It ain't happening here we're not in Texas we're in Florida," McCall spoke with confidence.
"Think what you want Zeke," Trivette replied pulling the hat over his eyes again before adding, "In another forty-five minutes we'll be in international waters neither Florida or Texas."
"The sheriff still has to account for me," he came back grasping at straws.
"Oh didn't I mention the sheriff and Mrs. Gage are cousins used to play together as kids."
McCall stared at Trivette as he mulled the news over in his head.
~~~~~
An hour later the boat began to slow, Walker, Julie, and the sheriff joining Trivette and McCall on the lower deck.
"Trivette lets get his hands cuffed together in front of him," Walker began to instruct. Trivette pulled his keys from his pocket and began to walk towards the prisoner.
"Julie maybe it would be best if you went top side for this," he asked turning towards her.
"After what he did to Michael and my brother I'm not going any where. In fact I'd like to be first to pull the trigger," Julie told him staring at McCall all the while.
Walker nodded his head in agreement.
"I've got the cable right here," the sheriff informed the rest going to loop it around the handcuffs that held McCall's wrists.
"What are you going to do?" McCall was shouting at them.
"Send you for a little swim," Walker replied his hand resting on his service weapon. "How bout you climb up on that rail."
McCall seeing no other choice obliged Walker talking as he climbed, "I can tell you where I last saw her she maybe dead by now though."
"We're listening," Walker told him.
"It was Westfield he had to have her like all the other women he just had to have. He had his brother Philippe Martez take out the 'Precious Jules' and kill everyone on board or so he thought except for her. He had her brought to his island and when she attacked him he had her pumped full of heroine so she couldn't resist him when he raped her."
Julie's eyes closed for a moment as she thought of Sydney at the hands of Anton Westfield a tear escaping her to run down her cheek.
"It went on for a few days I don't think that she really knew what was happening to her much any more. Then one night Anton went upstairs to her again and it happened. Two of our people heard a clatter come from her room and went to investigate. Anton was dead and Sydney gone. She couldn't have done it by herself she had to have had outside help."
"From who?" Walker asked.
"I don't know we never saw who. We just hightailed it to the docks and before we knew it they were going up in an explosion and flames we were lucky to get away with our own lives."
"You can take us back to that island I take it?" Trivette asked.
"I know the coordinates," he told them for the captain to check out adding, "They are probably dead if Philippe has gone back and found the destruction."
"You had better hope not," Walker replied.
"Who do you think the outside help was?" Trivette asked.
"Anton Westfield was choked to death by someone's bare hands. If I caught someone doing what Westfield was doing to my wife I'd have done the same thing. I would bet on it being her husband."
"Francis is still alive," Julie uttered out loud.
"Julie don't get your hopes up here," Trivette was comforting her holding her elbow as the shock began to subside.
"Ranger Walker," the captain had called out interrupting them. "According to these coordinates we are going to have to go back in and start in the morning. We aren't outfitted for a trip of that length."
"All right Captain take us home," Walker ordered, "We'll head out tomorrow."
Lobby of the DuBois Hotel
Lynn Cartier DuBois stood in the lobby of the DuBois Hotel her phone in her hand waiting for the connection to be made with her brother's ship.
"I told you Lynn he isn't here," Gabriel O'Shea spoke he had taken the call in his friend's absence.
"You find him and you tell him that Julie Gage and her two ranger buddies just got off the hotel yacht with Zeke McCall in handcuffs. He had better forget about his whore for awhile and tend to business," Lynn spit at him before snapping the phone closed cutting off the connection.
Westfield House
Kim and Lin were in the kitchen when Syd and Gage returned. Kim eyed them suspiciously before asking, "You smiling Sydney you work up good appetite?
Syd's stuttered out answer was drowned out by Gage's rich laughter. "Oh you," she said turning and playfully smacking his arm.
"Come sit down dinner ready soon. We need talk," Kim continued watching the young people.
Sydney sat down at the table while Gage got them each a cool drink. After setting down the drinks he let his hand come to rest on her shoulder and she reached up taking hold of it.
"What is it we need to talk about Kim?" Gage asked looking towards the man.
"Martillo De Blarney' due back this week," Kim simply said. "Captain Martez never stays away longer then four weeks. It will be four weeks in two days."
Syd could feel her husband's hand tighten on her shoulder which was probably good because it prevented anyone from seeing how much she was shaking.
"Grandfather is right," Lin continued, "Captain Martez never stays away longer then a month, he will be back here in the next couple of days. He'll be back…" her voice trailed off and she suddenly bolted out the back door.
Syd squeezed Gage's hand tight for a moment and followed her out. "Lin, Lin wait up," she called after the girl.
Lin was running and not stopping Syd had to run to keep up to her. Finally she caught up to her on the beach where she had collapsed in tears. Sydney dropped in the sand beside her young friend reaching out and taking her hand waiting for her to say what was wrong.
"Sydney I'm sorry I didn't mean to run away crying," Lin told her still staring out to the ocean.
Sydney smiled at the girl who was all of seventeen before she spoke, "Lin you're talking to the wrong person when it comes to not shedding tears. Did you want to tell me what happened?"
She kept her eyes on the ocean as she began speaking again. "My father died when I was very young, my mother and I lived with my grandfather. We were very poor so when we had the opportunity for a better life we take it. Captain Martez brought us here. He said that Mr. Westfield bought us that he owned us and we had to do what he wanted. He make my mother go with him, my grandfather tried to stop him and they beat him. They told him they would kill my mother and me if he didn't do what they said. When Mr. Westfield got tired of my mother Captain Martez took her away and I never saw her again. I'm so glad Gage killed him."
Sydney had her arms around the young girl and they both cried over the destruction Westfield had caused in all their lives.
They sat there a while longer just looking at the waves until Lin suddenly remember, "Supper Grandfather kill us if we don't get back."
Smiling Syd agreed and they both got to their feet and headed to the house.
Gage was standing on the back porch looking out for them. He couldn't shake the worry he had for Syd when she was out of his sight. "I was just about to come looking for you two," he smiled reaching out to take Syd's hand as much for him as her.
"Supper ready come eat," Kim was shouting out the back door as another round of pots and pans began crashing in the sink and on the counter.
Gage pulled the door open standing back to say, "Ladies," letting them enter ahead of them as they all hurried to sit down to eat.
Later that Night…
It was decided they would start taking turns keeping watch at night. Kim had told them that it had been by accident that he had found the secret passage from the house to the docks and he was quite sure that not even Westfield had known about it. They decided the end of the tunnel would be the perfect vantage point to keep lookout for the 'Martillo De Blarney'.
Sydney was taking the first watch and Gage had walked to the end of the tunnel with her. "Kim told me what happened," Gage confided in her taking her in his arms.
"Westfield hurt so many he was a monster Gage," Syd venomously said her husband's arms tightening around her.
"Syd I'm just going to stay here with you tonight," he nonchalantly spoke.
"How are you going to get a good nights sleep sitting up with me?"
"I'm going to lay here and catch a little shut eye," he told her still holding her close. "Besides I wouldn't sleep with you down here and me in bed. I still need you close Syd."
"Thanks Gage I know what you mean."
Restaurant at the DuBois Hotel
Walker and Trivette sat discussing the latest developments as they waited for Julie Gage to join them. "You think that Gage may really be alive?" Trivette was asking his partner hoping that some of his Cherokee intuition was honing in giving him the answers to the questions.
"I don't know I think we are going to be lucky to find Sydney alive. I've been thinking if McCall is telling us the truth about what happened with her it might be a good idea to have Alex and Erica to meet us down here for the trip home," Walker speculated with his friend.
"Maybe we should wait until we know for sure before we have the girls come down here," Trivette speculated further as Walker nodded his head.
"You think it's good idea to let Julie come with us?" Trivette asked.
"Since it's my boat I can't see that you have much choice," Julie's voice came from behind them. Both Walker and Trivette spun around to find her standing there.
"Morning Julie," Walker greeted her as both men stood up and Trivette pulled a chair out for her.
"Julie I was just thinking it might be dangerous out there and we don't know what we are going to find," Trivette tried to explain himself.
"Jimmy if there is any sort of inkling that either of them might be alive I need to be there. You can understand that can't you?" Julie prodded him for an answer.
Trivette knew what protests he would have if anyone suggested that he stay behind but even so he was trained for this Julie wasn't. He could also tell from the determined look on her face there would be no changing her mind.
"Man Gage wouldn't have stood a chance when he was a kid with you around," Trivette teased trying to lighten the mood.
"He still doesn't," she replied holding onto the hope that McCall was right, that he was alive and they would be bringing both of Francis and Sydney home.
"I think it's time we went to find them," Walker smiled as the trio left together for the marina.
~~~~~
Standing back unnoticed by the three of them Lynn once more pulled her phone and dialled. Once more Gabriel O'Shea answered. "Yes Lynn he's here let me see if he is available," he told her.
O'Shea hated to disturb his friend but Lynn was becoming a real bother. He knocked gently on the cabin door. "Just a moment," he heard Philippe call back and waited for the door to open.
Martez had pulled on his pants but stood bare chest to greet his second officer. "What is it?" he asked stepping into the corridor and pulling the door closed.
"Your sister she called twice yesterday and she is on the line again now."
Martez let out an exasperated sigh before going back inside the cabin and grabbing his shirt and shoes. "I should have known better then to do any business with her it always ends badly," he muttered to O'Shea. "What is it she wants now?"
O'Shea relayed what Lynn had told him concerning Julie Gage and Zeke McCall. Martez stayed silent looking at the phone that was offered him. He sighed again before stating, "What did I tell you about that Gage woman."
Taking the phone from his friend he held it a minute then bringing a small across his face as if his sister could see it. "Lynn dear sister you have been looking for me?"
"Don't dear sister me. Things are tumbling like a house of cards here thanks to you only doing half a job and then doing nothing to fix your mistakes," she accused.
"Lynn calm down I'm about to set sail for the island and Anton and I will devise a plan to make everything right in your little world. You just sit back and relax all those millions will soon be in your very capable hands," Philippe tried to appease his sister.
"Then you had better tell Anton to do something about McCall before he decides to save his own bacon and start talking. Or maybe he all ready has Julie and her friends has chartered off the yacht for the next few days for an undisclosed destination. You don't suppose they are going to go get Julie's sister-in-law do you?"
Martez's face paled with teeth clenched he told her, "I will take care of things Lynn." Breaking the connection he tossed the phone at O'Shea. "Get Anton on the line and set a course for Westfield Isle," he barked out the orders going to stand at the window to gaze at the ocean stretched out before them. He shook his head again knowing they were a day and a half out from the island, knowing too that he was right Sydney Gage was some how going to be their downfall.
Gabriel came up behind the captain to report, "We can't raise the island communication is completely out."
DuBois Yacht
Julie stood at the front of the boat looking out at the blue water of the ocean. An involuntary shiver went over her as the events of what happened on the 'Precious Jules' began to come back to her.
"You all right?" Julie turned to find Walker standing behind her.
"Yeah fine," she smiled turning back to look out over the calm water. They both stood silent both wondering what they would find when they got to Westfield Isle.
"You think there is a chance that they are there?" she finally put the question to Walker. "I know Michael is gone I saw him die before my eyes." She wiped a tear from the corner of her eyes that were every bit as blue as her brother's. "But if there is a chance that Francis and Syd…" she stopped mid sentence letting Walker put his arm around her shoulder.
"Julie if anyone can survive this it would be those two," Walker tried to ease her mind.
"You're right Walker," she sighed letting the salt air blow in her face. "You know when Francis called to tell me he and Sydney were getting married I couldn't have been happier. He needs a keeper you know and I don't know anyone more up for the job then Sydney. She adores him and it's not very often any of us get a glimpse of that side of her.
They have that special something, you know what I'm talking about I've seen it between you and Alex.
Walker smiled nodding his head having seen it too between his two junior rangers.
"You know the night it happened Francis had just told me that they had just decided to start a family…" Again she paused choking back tears whispering, "And now this had to happen."
Julie turned into Walker's arms crying her tough front breaking down. "I'm sorry I've tried to be brave and see this through but I just don't think I can bear it …" again her voice stopped mid sentence.
"Hey we are not on a wild goose chase here," Trivette piped up coming up behind the two of them. "We got to be positive here. Man they wouldn't want to know that we were giving up on them."
"You're absolutely right Jimmy," Julie smiled at him wiping her face, happy to have them both there with her to help her through this.
Westfield Isle One Day Later
It was shortly after seven Gage lay against her as she gazed out over the ocean where she found nothing more then clouds and seagulls. She yawned wide letting her husband snuggle against her a little closer. This was the second night they had spent taking turns to keep watch.
"Syd," Gage suddenly called out to her sitting up straight disoriented for a moment.
"Right here Honey," Syd called reaching out and pulling him back against her. "I think we need a couple good hours of sleep."
"It's overcast looks like we are going to get a little rain," Gage commented letting himself rest against Syd once again. She ran her fingers through his hair both letting their eyes rest on the horizon.
The peaceful silence was broken a few minutes later when Lin came down the secret tunnel to take over the watch from them. "Morning Syd, morning Gage," she sang out.
"Morning Lin," they called back at the same time as the girl appeared.
"Grandfather has breakfast ready for you, you better hurry, you know what he's like," she informed them.
Both smiled as they thought of the kindly old man whose bark was worse then his bite. "You are so right Lin," Gage smiled as he got to his feet turning to help Syd up as well.
~~~~~
"You need rest you have two very long nights," Kim started in on them as they came through the panelled wall that hid the passage entrance.
"We took turns resting," Gage responded as Kim set a heaping plate of ham, eggs and fried potatoes in front him. "Looks good Kim," Gage told him picking up his fork to dig in.
"It is the very least an old man can do for you," he replied patting Gage's shoulder with actual affection.
Gage didn't have time for an answer they could all hear Lin calling to them before the panel wall opened. "There's a boat sailing in," she was repeatedly shouting.
Sydney and Gage were both on their feet following Lin back through the tunnel Kim but a step behind them stopping short of the entrance to gaze out.
Getting closer they began to realize that it was not the 'Martillo De Blarney' but they still didn't recognize the ship. "Suppose McCall and some of his cohorts are coming back?" Gage asked Syd as they watched the ship move in as close as it could and drop anchor. She shrugged her shoulders; a small boat was being lowered down the side of the ship followed by a rope ladder.
Two men began climbing down the ladder and a flicker of recognition hit Syd as she exclaimed, "Oh my God Gage," jumping up at the same time.
A woman had next begun to climb down and Gage's heart near stopped. Syd was all ready running for the lagoon Gage right behind her tears streaming down both their faces.
"Julie, Walker, Trivette," Gage was shouting and waving his arms Syd standing silently watching knowing they were finally going home.
Both raced into the water waist deep towards the boat. Julie followed suit jumping into her little brother's arms. Walker and Trivette were in the water too hugging Sydney and Gage a like.
"We thought you were dead," Gage cried hugging Julie tighter with one arm taking Sydney in the other one.
"How did you ever find us?" Sydney was asking.
"Your sister-in-law she never gave up hope that she could bring you home Sydney," Walker was explaining.
"I just never thought I'd be lucky enough to get my brother back too," Julie exclaimed wrapping her arms around Syd in a hug.
Lin and Kim had come out on the beach and stood quietly watching the reunion of family and friends. Making their way out of the surf Gage quickly introduced the Asian man and his granddaughter explaining that he and Syd owed them a debt of gratitude for all they had done for them during the time on the island.
"Gage I hate to rush you," Walker interrupted, "but…"
"I know Walker we want to get away from here too."
"Everyone just grab what you need and we'll get back aboard the yacht," Trivette was directing as they headed to the house for one last time.
Aboard The 'Martillo De Blarney'
Captain Philippe Martez stood in the wheelhouse of his ship, his second in command on one side, and his mistress on the other. He looked through the field glasses he held in his hands surveying the destruction on Westfield Isle, seeing the ship that had sailed into the lagoon and catching sight of Sydney Gage on the beach with the others.
Chomping down on the cigar that hung from his mouth he began to wonder what had happened to his brother knowing the only way he would find out was to get on that island and confront the people responsible for what had happened.
Moving the binoculars from his face he began to issue orders. "Lower the launch," he bellowed as he began naming off the men who would accompany him to the island. Turning to face O'Shea he gave him a direct order, "Make sure that ship or anyone on it doesn't leave this island."
O'Shea acknowledged the order with a simple nod and they went to work.
Francine Boisvert stood at the rail watching Martez and his men load into the small launch to take them to the far side of the island. She watched as the small boat he piloted disappeared out of sight a hollow sour feeling of doom beginning to form in the pit of her stomach. She said nothing knowing it would be of no use she had learnt long ago that her opinion was not what he valued in her.
"It's not good," she whispered to herself.
"I agree," O'Shea replied overhearing her words watching the launch disappear too.
~~~~~
Turning they headed towards the house only to have Kim stop them. "Gage," he pointed as he spoke seeing the pirate ship as she sailed into the lagoon.
"Get everyone off the yacht," Gage shouted having seen how the ship had destroyed the 'Precious Jules'
Trivette all ready had his phone out making the call and the captain responding.
Kim was making a mad dash to his post Gage shouting after him, "Kim come back they are too close, they know we are here," he shouted again tackling the little man to the ground. "I'll set the charge."
"Gage no argue, you look after Sydney and Lin. Lin has better chance with you and Sydney then me," the old looked at Gage with pleading eyes. "I know what to do. I can do it."
Gage looked into his eyes and slowly nodded his head yes. "Remember wait till they get half way past the mark before you hit the switch and then run for the house."
"I do it Gage," he reinforced as Gage let go of him.
The rest were helping the yacht's crew onto the beach and Lin was leading the way to the house. "We need to take cover," Gage was shouting hoping the DuBois yacht wouldn't sustain too much damage in the blast.
It had not been since he was in the military that he had worked with explosives but when he had found the materials in one of the outbuildings he had set to work rigging the lagoon. Kim had been especially interested in what Gage was doing and it had just sort of become his job to set off the charges if they were attacked.
They could see the cannon being levelled at the yacht just like had been done to so many defenceless ships. Everyone was scrambling for the dense cover of trees and foliage. Gage had just time to make it to Sydney and Julie before an earth-shattering explosion sounded raining water and pieces of the ship in every direction. The smoke was thick and acrid as it had been that night their lives had all been blown apart.
Gage lay atop both Syd and Julie. Syd clenched tightly too him knowing she just couldn't be separated from him again and left to them. She would die by her own hand first.
"Syd?"
She heard his voice and breathed a little easier.
"Gage?" It was Walker calling to him.
"Over here Walker," he called looking into his wife's face as she smiled up at him. He quickly kissed her turning to his sister who smiled to him, "I'm fine."
"Lin? Where's Lin?" Gage was asking.
"Nice trick Gage," Trivette was congratulating him. There was absolutely nothing left of the 'Martillo De Blarney'.
"Lin has anyone seen Lin?" Gage was asking again both he and Sydney were on there feet trying to find the girl.
"Grandfather no," her scream broke the still quaking skies.
Both Syd and Gage ran to where the desperate scream had come from finding the young woman on her knees holding her grandfather cradled to her. Gage knelt down with her placing his fingers on the old man's neck and looking up to Syd he shook his head no. By this time the rest had gathered around and Syd had sank down beside Lin taking her in her arms.
~~~~~
Martez and his men had just landed on the little beach when they heard the explosion go up. The thought that his ship and crew had been vanquished from existence never entering his mind.
"So much for escaping," he said his sinister laugh going up loudly as the rest joined in. "Look alert men they will be retreating to this side of the island," he cautioned loudly. "Derry take point."
"Yes Sir," the wiry young man replied sprinting on ahead of the group as he had done on numerous adventures before.
"The rest of you keep close," the captain commanded as they proceeded into the dense underbrush along the trail. Martez could hardly wait to get to this prize; he knew that Anton had to be dead that Sydney's husband would never leave him alive knowing what he had done to her. He had every intention of extracting his revenge on both of them they would die together on this god forsaken island paradise.
The sky was darkening and a gale wind picking up as they marched on towards the main house. A streak of lightening broke the dismal gray followed by a loud shriek of pain that could only come from a human voice and then silence.
"Pick up the pace men," Martez ordered taking the lead a drizzle of rain beginning to soak them. They didn't have far to go until they found the source of the cry. Derry had tripped one of Gage's traps and now hung limply pinned to a tree by a homemade spear, lifeless his head hanging to the side a small trickle of blood at the corner of his mouth.
The rain had become a steady downpour as Martez stared at the young man a renewed hatred boiling over in him. "Watch your step men," he growled taking the lead of the small band once more.
The monstrous house loomed a head of them; it lay in darkness as they headed for the back entrance to finish the job they had set out to do.
~~~~~
The rain fell in sheets cutting off sight for more then a few inches in front of you. The blowing wind had turned cold uprooting things in its path. Francine pulled herself onto the beach, the lone survivor of the devastation that had been meted out on the 'Martillo De Blarney'. She brought her hand to her cheek; it felt as if it was on fire. She couldn't see from the one eye and the pain from her disfigured face causing agony beyond belief. She knew she couldn't stay there she had to find some sort of shelter. She had to find Philippe and warn him.
~~~~~
"Gage we're going to have to wait out this storm before we can see what kind of shape the boat is in," Walker was speaking and taking charge.
"You're right," he agreed glad to have his boss here, glad to let him make a few of the decisions.
"Lin let Sydney help you to the house," he coaxed the girl, "I'll carry your grandfather."
She numbly let Syd and Julie help her to her feet watching as Gage lifted Kim Hu up in his arms. They all proceeded to the house the wind and rain whipping around them.
Once inside the cool dark interior Gage carried the old man to the room he lived in for so long and gently deposited him on his bed. There they left him with Lin for her to say good-bye to her grandfather for the last time.
"Captain Underwood was there anything in the weather advisories predicting this storm or how severe it would be?" Walker was asking as Gage and Sydney joined them.
"Only a few isolated thunderstorms nothing major," the captain was advising them. "This should blow over very quickly and then we can access any damage that may have been done to the yacht."
Gage had walked over to the front door where Trivette stood looking out. "That sky is completely black," he commented. The lightening streaked across the sky again followed by a crash of thunder and Trivette turned to look at him. He looked different some how the same old Gage but different some how.
"Gage," they both turned. "Julie and I are going to the kitchen to see about fixing something to eat."
"All right Honey," he replied. "I'll join you in a few minutes," he told her still unable to be away from her for too long.
"How did you two ever survive this?" Trivette unintentionally spoke the question out loud.
"It was pretty rough Syd's still getting over it," Gage absently replied.
"Looks like you are too," Trivette observed letting his hand come to rest on his friend's shoulder.
"Yeah you're right we've had a lot of horrible things happen that have changed our lives for ever…" They both stood silent for a minute before Gage continued the words catching in his throat, "I'm just thankful to be alive and to still have Syd."
~~~~~
A faint glow came from a window at the back of the house the pirate captain had made his way to it to peer inside. Lin Hu sat silently beside her grandfather's bed staring at the old man, as he lay not moving. He watched for a few moments, as the girl gently reached forward to lay her hand on Kim's face realizing that the old man must have died.
Two more of his men came to his side to report in, "The two women are in the kitchen the men in the entrance but no sign of our people."
"You," he motioned with his head, "go to the docks and see what's going on. Be careful you never know what other traps they have waiting for us. The rest of you come with me."
Slowly they made their way to the side entrance and while his men spread through out the house poised on attack the captain made his way to Kim's room. The door stood ajar and Martez easily slipped in unnoticed. Coming up behind Lin he clamped a hand over her mouth dragging her to her feet.
Quickly she dug her elbow into his gut her teeth sinking into his hand at the same time, still Martez would not let go. They struggled for a few minutes more before Martez was able to render her unconscious but not before they had knocked over a heavy wooden table alerting both Sydney and Julie that something was wrong.
"Go and get Gage," Syd ordered Julie the two women looking out the kitchen door.
"What are you going to be doing?"
"Seeing what the noise was," Syd flatly replied. "Get going," she prodded.
Julie hesitated a minute more not wanting to leave Sydney but knowing they might need help. She hurried silently back to where she had last seen her brother while Sydney went in the opposite direction.
Kim's door was wide open, Syd approached with caution until she caught sight of Lin lying unconscious on the floor. Rushing to the girl she failed to notice the tall figure of Philippe Martez behind the door. As Syd knelt beside Lin Martez brought the butt of his gun down into the back of her head and she fell unconscious across the floor next to Lin.
Martez crouched down beside Syd rolling her to her back so he could see her face. His hand moved to her brushing her hair behind her ear. The braids were gone and the captain smiled in approval. "My instincts where right Sydney I should have taken you that night for myself and my crew then sold you to one of the island brothels. Anton would have gotten over you in time." He let his fingers caress her cheek once again lingering there for a moment then taking his place to hide again and wait for her husband to arrive.
Julie was just heading down the hall to the main house from the kitchen when she ran into Gage, "Francis," she gasped not expecting to run into him.
"Julie what is it?"
"We heard a noise and Sydney sent me for you and she went to see what it was," she retorted.
Gage could feel his heart jump to his throat, quickly pulling out a gun he handed it to Julie telling her to get Walker for him.
"Francis," she hissed back.
"Don't argue just do it," he ordered running down the hall.
Julie watched for a second more then turned to do what her brother wanted.
Kim's door was still open wide when Gage got to it his heart racing faster then he was. "Syd, Syd where are you?" he called out in a whisper catching sight of her as she lay on the floor unmoving.
"Sydney," he cried his mind forgetting all else but her he rushed towards her falling at her side his fingers going to her neck looking for a pulse. His mind suddenly sensed a motion behind him and he swiftly turned only to catch Martez's boot flying into his face. It flung him backwards off balance his head hitting the floor, Martez's foot coming at him again hitting him in the side causing him to coil in pain.
"You killed my brother," Martez accused him, "you and that whore wife of yours. I tried to tell Anton that Sydney may be beautiful but she would prove very deadly. He wouldn't listen to me he never counted on you. You will both pay dearly for what you have done." His foot came flying out once again connecting with Gage's ribs with a savage cracking sound as he cried out in pain.
Martez laughed loudly enjoying himself he brought his foot back once more to attack again only to be stopped by a loud bang.
Gage looked up at him through squinted eyes a look of shear surprise had crossed his face as a second loud bang broke the still air, Martez fell face first onto the floor. A third bang rang out, a fourth, a fifth, Gage lost count until finally all he heard was the continuous click of the trigger being pulled, the hammer hitting the empty chamber.
Julie stood above Martez killing him over and over again her mind wanting once and for all to avenge Michael's death. Gage pulled himself to his feet and to his sister; putting his hand over the revolver he gently pried it from her hand and took her in his arm where she cried uncontrollably.
"Gage?" Syd mumbled out she was trying to sit up and piece together what had happened.
"Honey don't try and move," he called to her, "everything is all right."
Julie looked in her brother's face and nodding her head whispered, "go to her."
"Gage Sydney," Lin's eyes had opened and she was calling them. Syd turned to the girl her hand going to the back of her own head.
Both Julie and Gage had dropped to the floor with Lin and Sydney as slowly they helped each other to their feet.
~~~~~
Walker and Trivette stood in the grand dining room with Captain Underwood, his second in command and the yacht's cook, the skeleton crew they had brought with them not knowing what sort of danger they may find.
"If at all possible I'd like to be underway by this evening," the captain was commenting to Walker.
Walker was agreeing but his partner could tell from experience that the man's mind was elsewhere.
"Trivette we have company," he quietly spoke as Jimmy looked towards the open french doors to see a figure run past.
The figure didn't escape Captain Underwood's line of vision as he calmly asked, "What do you want us to do?"
"Just follow our lead captain," Walker answered the same time as the doors flew open and the men came charging in on the attack. Walker and Trivette jumped into action delivering well placed blows cutting the odds against them in a matter of minutes. The captain and his crew held their own none giving an inch to the pirates.
Walker had just taken two out for the count when a third grabbed a polished sword from above the mantle and made a run at him. Walker easily sidestepped him grabbing up a silver tray at the same time to use as a shield. The man turned quickly charging once more Walker moving the tray in front of him to block the sabre from hitting its intended target. Moving the tray several other times he was finally able to deliver a blow to the man's head with the tray dazing him enough to give Walker time to grab the other sword.
Turning back the pirate was all ready coming at him and he brought his sword up just in time for the attacker's sword to clang together with his and Walker pushed him off. With the determined look of 'to the death' in both men's eyes the swords began to clang against each other both showing a honed skill as they battled on. In the end it was Walker's disciplined training in the marshal arts that was to make the difference.
Striking out with the sword Walker was able to catch the side of his opponent with his weapon cutting the man's side deeply. As his hand went to his side Walker easily struck out with a spin kick knocking the man's sword to the floor. The second kick to the man sent him to the floor and out for the count.
Sydney and Gage had made it to the dining room with Julie and Lin. With the two junior ranger's help the rest of the group were brought under control.
Aboard the DuBois Hotel Yacht
Gage stood at the rail of the yacht his arms around Sydney as they looked out across the ocean waters. They were going home. His arms tightened around his wife and she sighed turning to face him.
"I didn't think we would ever see this day Gage," she softly murmured to him as his lips pressed gently against her forehead.
"I'm not trying to be little anything that you went through but I just can't help think about what Julie and Lin have lost," Gage was rambling on and Sydney pulled him closer to her knowing what he meant. In the end they had each other. True Julie had both her brother and sister-in-law but she had lost the man she most loved in her life. Lin had lost the only family she had.
Gage's head bent to his wife his lips coming against hers he pulled her into an ardent kiss. His hand rested against her cheek and he held her for several moments a magical spell wrapping around them.
"Francis Sydney," Julie and Lin had come up behind them
"Hey you two," Gage smiled opening his arms to encircle them too.
"Lin and I have been talking and we are both kind of at a loss right now," Julie began, "So I have invited and she has graciously accepted, Lin to stay with me at the condo for a while. We are going to see if we can't get her on her feet and help her to become an American citizen."
"Sydney and Gage I'll never forget what you did for me," Lin smiled at the two of them.
"We are the ones to be thanking you Lin," Syd smiled hugging the girl in her arms.
"Hey Gage you still know how to eat don't you?" Trivette was calling him from the upper deck.
"That's something I'm not going to forget any time soon Trivette," Gage called back a smile spreading across his face. "Ladies shall we?" he asked moving back to let them pass grabbing Syd in the process just long enough to kiss her one more time.
Epilogue
Westfield Island
Francine Boisvert sat watching from her perch on the hillside watching the lagoon as the authorities rounded up the captured pirates and took care of the bodies. She watched as they reported in to the commanding officer that all were accounted for with the exception of Captain Philippe Martez and a mysterious woman that had been travelling with him. Both were presumed dead.
"They'll never find us Philippe," she told her companion. She had found the Captain in Kim Hu's room lifeless staring aimlessly in death. She had dragged his body from the house and up the hills and now the two of them sat there she watching what was happening below.
DuBois Hotel Key West
Lynn Cartier DuBois stood watching as the yacht pulled back into her berth at the marina. The rangers Walker and Trivette were there, Julie's brother and his wife and big as life Julie Gage stood there.
Lynn had been informed when the radio transmission had come in what had happened and that both her brother's were dead.
She stared at them all committing them to memory silently telling them and herself, "This isn't over yet."
The End.