Elena faces the Fox!

Elena sprinted down from her room after Zorro. Knowing the terrain, she decided to try to cut him off at the stables. Sure enough, as she sprinted into the room she saw his all back form running.

"Stop Senor!" She called out.

Zorro spun, striking a fighting stance. Then he saw Elena and instantly relaxed. This infuriated Elena. She knew men never took her seriously, and the smirk on the Fox's face showed he didn't either.

"Good evening Senorita." Zorro tipped his hat, the smirk never leaving his face. "I'd love to chat, but I am in a hurry..."

"I want you to put it back." Elena ordered.

"Whatever you stole from my father." Elena explained. "Put it back. Now!"

"Uh.. no." Zorro said with a chuckle.

At his laughter Elena struck a stance, drawing her rapier and pointing it straight at Zorro. The Fox's eyes widened, but then he found his amused calm again.

"I'm sorry Senorita, I have no time to give you the proper instruction..." Zorro said.

"I've had the proper instruction since I was five." Elena shot back fiercely.

Zorro looked her up and down. Then, with a nod, he tossed off his hat and drew his own sword.

This was the first respect the thief had shown Elena. She was determined to earn much more respect with her blade!