Page 106 of A Flash of Golden Fire

He and Dinesh looked at each other again, and the gravity of their expressions worried me.

“What are you not telling me?”

Captain Martin’s expression melded into one of exaggerated unconcern.

“Oh, no, don’t worry. You saved us, once again. That’s all.”

“But the last time this happened, I obliterated an entire ship and its crew. Was there no damage done?” I stared at Captain Martin, who continued to smile, although the sentiment didn’t reach his eyes.

“Are you a witch, Rooster?” Domingo asked in hushed tones.

“I have no idea,” I said, tired of the question. Tired of wondering myself.

“Never mind,” Captain Martin said. “Simon needs to eat. I’ll go see Guthrie.”

“There was some damage,” Domingo said then, and Dinesh levelled a sober stare his way. “To the dock. Enough that they couldn’t come after us.”

Captain Martin sighed.

“Yes. Well done,” he said, but there was no enthusiasm to his words.

My stomach rumbled, and I wondered if some food might help my head. I couldn’t worry about the secrets they were keeping, not right now.

“Could you please ask Guthrie if he’s had time to make any of his raisin scones? How long have I been out of it?”

“You’ve been sleeping for nigh on two days, I’m afraid. I’m sure he’s made all your favorite foods. Everyone’s worried about you,” he said.

“Truly?”

“Yes, Rooster. You’ve made many friends here.”

Domingo stood. He’d changed from his robe into a pair of linen trousers and one of the captain’s white shirts. The garment, much too big for him, made him look sweet and small. His dark hair was tied back with a ribbon, and the look suited him.

He lifted his chin and spread his arms, showing off. “I’m a buccaneer now, Mr White, ain’t I? Perhaps I’ll try living a different life.”

“I think you’ll have to,” Captain Martin said. “You must have some skills beyond…” His face turned red, and he coughed.

Domingo grinned. “Beyond sodomy and prick eating, you mean?”

“Well…”

“Perhaps I do, but I don’t know what they are.”

That made me smile. I was pleased that Domingo was on board theArrowand safe from harm, either from the Spanish invaders or from the men who bought his services. Perhaps he could find some skill that would serve him well in the future. For now, I supposed, he was crew.

As if reading my mind, Captain Martin turned to Domingo.

“I’ll make an announcement to the crew that you’re not to be trifled with. They respect and admire me, and I’ll have your back, don’t worry.”

“Thank you, Dinesh.”

“Guthrie has a spacious room near the kitchens. Perhaps you can bunk with him. The man is committed to celibacy, believe me. I’ve challenged that position for years but he won’t budge. You’ll be safe with him.”

My eyes went wide. “What do you mean? Have you tried to bedMr Guthrie?”

“Oh my goodness, no. For heaven’s sake.” He waved his hand in the air. “Merely philosophical discussions, around the idea and practice of celibacy. Don’t be ridiculous.”

I frowned. “He ain’t a bad looking man, Mr Guthrie. I’d tup him.”