The Secret of Sinbad's Cave

  Chapter 37

  Drake’s Vow

  Drake pressed her face against the cold rock. She couldn’t believe what she’d seen. The cache had finally been uncovered, and now – her body shuddered at the thought – it had been delivered to the child. How could Abraham do this to her? He knew she was out there, watching; she was sure of it. She’d even felt a strange pang in her chest, seeing him under the kaiwaka trees, where they used to walk together. The message was unmistakable. Abraham had resurrected the Protectors of the Valley, and soon they would be stronger than ever before. With the cache in their possession, they could access any of the places she had dreamed about.

  She spun around. It was imperative she get it. The planning had to begin immediately. The surveillance would not stop until she had retrieved it. She allowed herself a wry smile and clutched the briefcase to her chest. She still had the mask, and knew where both gems were.

  She watched as Abraham settled on a park bench and gazed up the valley. How much had he told them? He must have whispered the truth; Sinbad and his sailors were not the only ones to visit New Zealand in times gone past. Although many agreed to the official lie in public, only a fool would believe it; it was obvious these shores had been visited by many. She smiled as she watched the old man. Perhaps she should be grateful to him for teaching her that.

  She wondered if he would be proud of her; she had visited each of the Treasure Valleys, as he had once done. It was impossible to choose a favourite; the grandeur of Egypt had impressed, but their valley had been the first to fall and be raided. Mexico too, had been ransacked. Tibet had a different type of majesty, as did Patagonia. Nothing like this quiet place. But she alone knew what was here and had the means of removing whatever she wanted.

  Abraham stood, and looked across to where she was hidden. He lifted his hand, and tipped his imaginary cap towards her.

  Drake froze.

  Abraham smiled to himself and wandered along the street, eventually disappearing from view.

  Huddled under the trees, Drake’s eyes flashed. Enough, she decided. The old man had done his time; now he was a nuisance. She would get rid of him, destroy the young Protectors of the Valley and take all of its treasures. And no-one would ever again forget the name Majella Te Kaitiaki.

  – The End –