Disclaimer: No copyright infringement meant with story. Characters owned by ZPI, not by me. I only wish to borrow them for a little while.

Summary: What happens after the incidents in "Ultimate Justice"? How does Diego avoid suspicions, especially those of the Alcalde? Plus, the Alcalde has plans of his own.

AN: Thank you for returning and enjoying this story. And for all the reviews, favs and follows. I apologize for not getting this out sooner, and I am kinda scared…sure hope this does "fly", for we find out what the Alcalde has in mind…I think it could have happened this way…hope you agree…

Previously:

Surprisingly, the Alcalde said as he wiped imaginary dirt and wrinkles from his jacket. "I accept your apology. I do understand you being under such stress." Directing a look of steel at Alejandro, de Soto said, "However, do not allow it to happen again, Don Alejandro. This is your final warning."

Don Alejandro allowed himself to be led out of the jail by Felipe. Once outside, Felipe began to sign excitedly. "Slow down, Felipe! You know I'm not as good as Diego with reading your signs."

Felipe gave a frustrated sigh, recollected himself, smiled an apology, and signed, "Let's go to the tavern and talk with Victoria. We need to do something for Diego."

Alejandro nodded, and followed Felipe as he headed toward the tavern. Alejandro tried to clear his mind of all extraneous thoughts running through it to focus only on his son's dilemma. He was very frustrated with having such a short visit with his son, but at least two things were accomplished. Diego did confirm he was Zorro, and he did give his father an idea how to help him. If only Ignacio would allow them the time to get their lawyer here. One way or another, he just couldn't lose his son!

Watching Felipe maneuver across the street towards the tavern, Alejandro wondered how much the boy knew about Zorro. Perhaps he and Diego had developed some plans to extricate Diego out of such a situation. At least that would be what he, himself would have done.

Thinking such thoughts brought a sore spot to Alejandro's heart. How he would've loved to have helped Diego plan his escapades, the missions Zorro carried out. He allowed himself a moment of fatherly pride in thinking it was indeed his own son who defied two alcaldes without loss of life and without being caught himself. Well, until now.

Alejandro worried about what other evidence the Alcalde had, for him to be so certain Diego was Zorro. However, there was hope, for Alejandro had observed the Alcalde blanche when Alejandro mentioned their connection to the King. He himself was worried about what the King would say if he did find out about Diego's ideas of fighting the injustice he found here in California. Zorro's actions could only be seen as treason against the King…unless special circumstances were called. Which a King could.

Felipe and Alejandro entered the tavern and were met with many of the patrons rising from their seats attempting to reach them. Alejandro attempted to greet them all, but finally stopped. Motioning Felipe to help him, Alejandro stood on a chair. Raising his hand up in the air, he attempted to call for attention. After several attempts, he did succeed in getting silence.

"I appreciate all of your concerns and questions. However, I do not have any new information. Yes, Diego has been arrested. We do not know what those charges are or why the Alcalde has been slow in charging him. When we do find out, I will let you, my friends, know." Looking around to include everyone, he concluded, "For now, Felipe, Victoria and I ask for privacy. Thank you."

Several of the dons attempted to reach Alejandro anyway, but they were gently pulled back to their seats by their friends. A buzz rose as the patrons began to whisper amongst themselves. After lowering himself to the floor, Alejandro searched the room, located Victoria behind the bar, and motioned Felipe to join him as he made his way to her.

"It appears you gave an effective speech, Don Alejandro," Victoria told the older man with a small smile. She leaned over the bar to whisper, "I've been bothered all afternoon by everyone trying to find out the news. I didn't know what to tell them."

"Gracias, Victoria, for being discrete. And I was not lying, I have nothing new to say."

"I wonder why the Alcalde is taking so long to charge Diego."

"I don't know, Victoria. It might very well be he'll decide to pardon Diego somehow, but wants to draw out our waiting to get back at Diego for everything Zorro has done."

Victoria's lips curled. "I suppose it's better than what Ramon would have done. He would have whipped Diego first, and asked questions later."

Alejandro nodded. Looking around the tavern, he noticed a great many of the townspeople had left after his announcement. "I guess it's later than I thought. Do you think you could spare a few moments to talk to Felipe and me about…?" And he made a small 'Z' movement in front of his chest.

Looking around, to not only see how many patrons were left but also to see whether anyone was still observing them, Victoria nodded. "Yes, I think we can slip out. I'll tell Alicia. She's in the kitchen. I'll meet you and Felipe in my back parlor."

Once she had arrived and settled herself in her armchair, with Felipe and Alejandro sitting on the couch, Victoria said, "So." She looked at Felipe. "Is it true? I didn't dream all of this, have I?"

Felipe blushed a little at her regard, shook her head, and slowly signed, "He hated not telling you. But he…he wanted to keep you safe."

"I didn't even know, Victoria. His own father, and he never confided in me," Don Alejandro said with bitterness dripping off every word.

Felipe quickly took hold of Alejandro's hand. He squeezed it, and then signed, "He only meant for both of you to remain safe. And to keep the number of people in on the secret to the minimum, to protect everyone. I think that's why we managed to keep the secret for so long. Just the two of us knowing."

He looked at both Alejandro and Victoria, silently pleading for them to not be angry with either him or Diego. To understand Diego only had the best of intentions in doing what he thought was right.

Victoria patted his cheek. "We're not angry with you, Felipe. And…" looking at Alejandro for agreement, "We're not really angry with Diego. Especially if this all means…" some sobs started to creep out even though Victoria tried to hold them back, "we might lose him. However…" she cleared her throat. "What can we do? Would Zorro break him out of jail…" when the two men looked at her questioningly, she tried to explain, "Don't you know what I mean? What would Diego do in this situation? How did he ever come up with all those wonderful ideas of his?"

Felipe shrugged his shoulders, blushed a little, and tried to think about what would Diego do for another person in this situation.

Don Alejandro said, "I know I'm risking my son's life, but I have a feeling de Soto is leaning towards a legitimate trial. Unlike Ramon…."

'That Ramon!" Victoria quickly made the Sign of the Cross, "May God have mercy on his soul, but he...he'd have hung Diego first chance he got if he were here."

"But Ignacio?" Alejandro asked, wanting her opinion.

"I don't like this not knowing, but I think I agree with you, Don Alejandro, that…we wait with any rescue plan until we see what Ignacio rules on a trial. You agree, Felipe?"

Felipe thought it over. All he wanted was this nightmare to end. He was having difficulty thinking clearly, but he forced himself to do so for Diego. Sighing, he signed, "Yes, I agree as well. While we wait, though, I will see about getting a rescue together, just in case."

Alejandro nodded. "You and I can discuss this more at home Felipe. Just in case." Looking at Victoria, who appeared ready to fall asleep in a moment, he said, "We should go home and get some rest. We'll see what tomorrow brings. Don Cristobel should be arriving late afternoon to help us with this, as well. Yes, getting Diego released on legal means would be much better than doing anything illegal and reckless."

~~Z~~Z~~Z~~

Previously:

Diego sat down on the bed, realizing he may very well be out of ideas. No way should Felipe masquerade as Zorro this time. de Soto was more intelligent than Ramon had ever been. He very well would deny the so-called sighting of Zorro if Felipe wasn't present as well. Same with his father, if Don Alejandro would instead ride Toronado. And there were no one else in the pueblo they could trust or risk to do such a thing.

Diego hung his head, his shoulders slouching in defeat. His brain was tired with trying to figure out what they could do. His spirit was uncertain if it could dig up any more hope for the situation. Looking for some sort of relief, Diego rubbed his temples. He decided to lie down for a while, at least give his body some rest, if not his mind.

After his father's visit, and the Alcalde's "gathering of evidence", Diego felt as though his head was about to explode. He couldn't believe what had happened in such a short span of time. Of all things he had tried to plan for, Ignacio getting in touch with a former classmate to get information about him didn't occur to Diego at all. He had to admit, though, it did make sense. But how could he have prepared for something like that? After mulling it over, Diego realized he couldn't have planned for that type of thing at all. Unless it was to remove de Soto from the position, and of course that was exactly what he'd been trying to do for two years. But perhaps not as fervently as he perhaps could've been.

He tried to quell the growing anxiety regarding what the Alcalde was going to decide. Again, Diego wondered about the length of time the Alcalde was taking to supposedly decide. Knowing Ignacio like he did, especially over the past two years, Diego wouldn't be surprised if it ended up his way of taking revenge against 'Zorro', but in the end choosing not to punish him. There was still a smidgen of doubt, though, which was giving him increasing unease in his stomach.

Not to mention what was going to happen to his family and Victoria. It was very strange Ignacio did not mention them. If it had been Ramon, Diego was certain he'd be dead by now, with his family and perhaps even Victoria joining him. He at least had a shot at surviving this because it was Ignacio.

Now that he had a terrible headache from attempting to think all the things through, Diego decided he better lie down and attempt some more rest. Perhaps Dios will be kind and provide him an answer through a dream like He had done with Joseph in Egypt.

~~Z~~Z~~Z~~

Diego spent another long, lonely night in jail. He attempted to sleep, knowing being rested might make the difference between life and death, but it was difficult. The sun had been up several hours before Diego was woken with the jangle of the jail door opening. Despite his grogginess, he forced himself into a sitting position on the cot and watched Ignacio walk towards him slowly.

"Oh, Diego, have you been having difficulty sleeping? I know the prison cots aren't as luxurious as the beds you grand de la Vegas might have at the hacienda. But you know, the government cannot waste money on such unnecessary comforts."

Diego chewed on his inner cheek and refused to be baited. He continued to watch Ignacio approach the cell bars. His so-called enemy took a folded paper out of his inner jacket pocket and held it between the bars towards Diego.

"You might find this interesting and worth your time, Diego."

Knowing the piece of paper probably held his future, Diego exhaled slowly and stood up. He walked to the bars and took the slip of paper, unfolded it slowly and began to read:

"This document hereby grants the man known as Zorro pardon for all the past crimes he has committed towards the county of Spain and of the Pueblo Los Angeles in particular. This pardon, granted by the Alcalde of Los Angeles, Ignacio de Soto, is conditional that there will be no other crimes committed by the man known as Zorro, and he will no longer be seen in the guise of Zorro anywhere in the state of California."

Diego had to read the paragraph twice before the words began to sink in. He then looked up to find Ignacio watching him with an expectant air.

"I suppose you want to know the reason for it?" Ignacio asked with a small smile curving his lips.

Forcing his tone to be mild, Diego replied, "Of course, Alcalde. This is not what I expected."

"I suppose not, Diego. This second letter will answer those questions," Ignacio said as he pulled a second folded letter from his pocket and handed it to Diego.

Diego's eyes narrowed as he took the paper and unfolded it. This letter read:

"I, Diego de la Vega, confess to riding as the former criminal known as Zorro. I realize I remain pardoned as long as I no longer ride again as this masked man. My intent was to correct the wrongs of the previous governments, but the problems have recently been resolved by the current Alcalde, Ignacio de Soto, and I recommend him for promotion in the Spanish government."

Diego also read this paragraph twice. He walked backwards toward the cot and blindly sat down. He looked up at the Alcalde, undecided what to say. He ran his fingers down his chin as he considered the development in front of him.

"I know I made a lot of mistakes when I first arrived, and for most of the two years I've been here. I admit it, Diego, and I know that's why Zorro continued to ride. But you must admit, the past six months I have begun to govern more fairly."

"Through no fault of your own," Diego let slip past his lips with a trace of bitterness.

"That's rather unfair, Diego. Even though, before this, I would've chosen to die rather than admit this to anyone, but you, or should I say Zorro, had been affecting me, making me see the error of my ways."

"Well, if that's so, why arrest me now, despite the letter? Why not pardon me a month ago, or even a week ago?"

"Pride, Diego. I wanted to catch Zorro, for he has been an irritant in my life from the moment I'd arrived in this pueblo. I also wanted to present his identity to the King, so I could return to Spain in triumph."

"Is this all for truth, Alcalde, or are you afraid of the King's reprisals if you'd execute me for the crimes of Zorro?"

Cocking his head to the side, de Soto considered him for a moment. A small smile curved his lips. "What kind of fool would I be to threaten my political career simply because of revenge?"

"So do you feel vindicated by making me sweat out your answer, delaying it as long as you could?"

"Frankly, yes, Diego, because I really do wish to hang you for your crimes. However, like I said, after much thinking, I cannot imagine, if I did do that, it wouldn't affect my career." Shifting his weight to the side, de Soto asked, "Well, do you agree to the conditions for your release then, de la Vega?"

Diego considered de Soto through the bars. He gave no impression of subterfuge, nervousness, or anything else besides honesty. "If I sign, this will be between us? Or will you make a grand announcement of Zorro's identity, and pardon, to the pueblo?"

"You don't seem to strike me as one who would want for a parade, Diego."

"Actually, I'd prefer no announcements, no parades, whatsoever."

"So the mighty Zorro is too humble to receive appreciation from a grateful public?"

"No, I fear reprisals against my family. There might be vengeful individuals who'd return to the pueblo seeking revenge for putting them in jail."

Ignacio considered his remark, cocked his head and nodded. "I never thought that part through, but I can certainly see the logic in your fear. Especially concerning a woman as beautiful as Senorita Escalante."

Diego wished he didn't feel the slight blush coloring his cheeks. Wishing to change the subject, Diego asked, "How long do I have to think about this? I also wish to consult with my family on this as well."

de Soto groaned in frustration. "What is needed to think over? You don't think I deserve a good position in Spain?"

Diego considered the man in front of him. He had to admit, when de Soto had first arrived, Diego thought he'd do an excellent job. Then all expectations were for naught. But, as he himself had said, Ignacio had much improved his governing over the past six months. Perhaps…

"I did not say that, Alcalde. There are a lot of factors going into this decision. I'd rather get my father's opinion before I decide."

Shaking himself, de Soto said, "All right. I don't understand, but I'll give you a few hours to consider it. I will also send word to your father to visit." As Diego was about to say something, de Soto rolled his eyes. "All right. The mute boy and Señorita Escalante can visit as well."

AN: So, does this all seem feasible? I'd like to think so. Were you surprised? I so wanted to think up a twist to this particular scenario. Like I say, if you feel kind, please let me know what you think. Always appreciated, and believe you me, it does help the pesky Muse.