"Ballots & Bullets" (TSR Module BH3) Concluded!

[Silver Moon]

Chapter Twenty-One, “Getting Settled”, Friday, May 26th, 1882, 5:15 P.M.

Kate stopped the buggy a bit behind the stagecoach and the three passengers climbed out to meet their companions in the coach. "The livery is just around the corner," Kate said. "I'll just run the buggy up and be right back. Would you like to go to the bath house first? I think we can all use a good soak."

Mr. Seagram suggests they visit a General Store or Dry Goods store first, to buy fresh things to change into at the conclusion of the bath. "I had been thinking to send Ginnie while we were bathing, but she probably wants a bath as badly as the rest of us," Kate said, smiling at her girl. "We'll go see Mary Kelley and see what she has. If we still need to we can go to Mr. Lacey's General Store after that."

Kate asked Ginnie to lead their family to Kelley's while she had the buggy put away and said she would meet them there. She dropped off the buggy at the livery, stopping to talk for a moment with Austin Blake. She answered his questions about the fire, paid for the first week of storage for the buggy, then made her way over to Mary Kelly's shop where her family was looking for new clothes.

Kate smiled at Mrs. Kelly as she walked in and moved to speak to her. "They're going to need enough clothing to see them through this visit. Not today but in the next day or so. Do you think you'll be able to handle that, or if anyone in town can?" Mary tells Kate that she and her husband Kevin will be happy to help keep her family properly clothed and comfortable. Kate replies, "Thank you. I know it's a lot of work, I just didn't want to overburden you. For now they'll just need a fresh set of clothes for today and nightclothes for tonight. We can worry about what they'll need for the whole visit tomorrow."

Meanwhile, Josephine Marcus heads over to Mary Kelly's, arriving while the Seagram family is shopping there. "Good afternoon, Miss Marcus," Kate said politely. Josie replies, "Good afternoon Mrs. Kale. I trust your brother is recovering?" "Quite well. A priest healed the worst of the damage, although the doctor wants him to keep the sling for a few days. He's already frustrated with our fussing and that's always a good sign. We're very lucky to have him still with us," she finished sincerely.

Josie smiles at Kate but there is a sadness in her own eyes. "That's good to hear. I hope he continues to mend well. And I am glad that everyone is alright. Well, take care." She half heartedly rifles through some clothes on a rack next to her, pretending to look them over. "Forgive me, but are you quite well?" Kate asked. "Yesterday was a long, difficult day."

Josie puts on a fake smile before looking back up at Kate. "Yes, it was a long difficult day for everyone. I, ah, yes, I am fine. Thank you for asking." She knew she couldn't say anything about Wyatt to this woman, Ruby's friend, but she was so terrified of the unknown she almost let it slip out. "It's just a little lonely here, I don't know too many people and with Ruby gone it's even less. I am trying to keep my mind busy by starting plans for the play."

Kate answers, "It's always difficult being alone in a new place, but you're always welcome at the Lady. I'm sure Mr. Booth would be happy to help you keep busy with the play. He hasn't said much about it, but I think he's looking forward to acting again. Ruby will be happy to have someone helping her out. She's very excited and sometimes she gets ahead of herself. Your experience will help her keep from feeling overwhelmed by it all."

Josie answers, "I got that impression from Mr. Booth myself. Acting is one of those special talents, either you have it or you don't. And if you do, the desire is always there. I am sure Conrad will enjoy this process immensely and be a great help." Her smile turns more genuine. "You are right about Ruby. As much as she has seen she is still very young and doesn't always understand the way things work. It wasn't so long ago that I myself thought that anything I wanted was possible."

Kate says, "Most things are, if you work at them hard enough. The hardest thing is learning which few aren't. There's one thing Ruby and I have in common; I don't always understand how things work either. It sounds like acting is a lot like being a musician. No matter what else you're doing, you're still a musician." Ruby had briefly told her about Katherine losing her husband and the thought quickly passed through her mind that she more than most should know that all things were not possible. "Are you a musician Mrs. Kale?"

With a smile Kate replies, "Yes, I'm a pianist. I play for Ruby several nights a week although once I start teaching next week I'm not sure how long I'll be able to keep it up. I prefer to play classical music myself, but any playing is fun." "Oh, I didn't know that," Josie replies with interest. "Will you be participating in the play then?"

Kate answers, "As much as I'd like to, I don't think I could devote enough time to it to really be a help. My school opens next week so I'll be teaching most of the day, then there's the ranch that needs my attention, my daughter, and working at the Lady at night. Perhaps if there was some way I could help in the hour or two after school I can participate in some small way. My friend Mrs. Wainwright is a lovely pianist as well as Mr. Stanley Barker. I wouldn't have expected to find so many talented people in such a small town."

"Sounds like you ARE busy Mrs. Kale," Josie laughs. "But I hope Ruby won't be too disappointed." She goes back to looking at the dresses, inspecting them. "We put Mrs. Wainwright in charge of the music actually, but I don't know if she'll play too or just direct. I suppose that is up to her. I am here to ask Mrs. Kelly about the costumes. Ruby is hoping her friends in town will come together to help with the show. She seems to think many of her friends are talented and would be willing to help." "Are you a fan of the theater?"

Kate says, "Very much. I saw my first play in New York City when I was a little girl, and I have loved the theater since. I've missed it since I came to Arizona. But things are changing very quickly, and Ruby is already bringing us the theater here. Hopefully this play will be a success and Ruby will be encouraged to do another. And maybe a few of the town residents will get the theater bug as well."

"Ah, New York City. Some of the grandest theaters in the world!" Josie picks up a dress and holds it close to her. "This Mary Kelly is very good. She'll do for our costumes." She gently places the gown back on the rack. "I am sure Ruby will love the attention of playing Juliet. We will do what we can to make the show a success. Normally these small towns find themselves enthralled with the excitement of theater and Ruby chose a wonderful piece of literature to get the public to show up. Occasionally we find a whole city that is not at all interested in theater but those are more rare. Promise City seems ripe to have civilization brought to them," she laughs.

Kate says, "Well, that depends on how you define civilization. I hope they will embrace the culture, and leave out some of the uglier parts of whole institution. Mrs. Kelly is very talented. Ask Ruby to show you her costume from the festival ball and you'll see. I should help my family now, and I believe you have business here. But if you get lonely my family and I should be at the El Parador most of the night. If I'm not there, Conrad takes his meals there."

A look of surprise crosses Josie's face. "Thank you for the offer Mrs. Kale. Ruby told me you were kind." She pauses for a moment. "I might stop by. I do want to speak to Conrad and I had fun the night I went there with Ruby. Good luck with your family, and I hope your brother continues to improve."

Josie approaches the woman Katherine pointed out as Mary Kelly. "Excuse me, Mrs. Kelly? My name is Josephine Marcus, I am a friend of Ruby's. She said I should come and see you. Your work is excellent and I think your talents will suit us for a project we are working on. Has Ruby spoken to you yet?"

Mary replies, "Not yet Miss Marcus. I saw both of your perfomances at the Festival, the one on the town stage and the longer performance at the Gay Lady. Your acting is exquisite." "Thank you for the compliment Ms. Kelly. It's taken me many years of hard work to get where I am now." She smiles at Mary. "You may call me Josie."

"I am going to be passing some of my experience to Miss West. We are putting on a production of Romeo and Juliet to be played at the Lucky Lady. We are going to be needing costumes and Ruby mentioned that you are the only seamstress in town she uses. We are wondering if you'd be interested in helping us."

Mary says, "Oh certainly, I would be happy to help. I will be tied up the next few days clothing the Seagram family, and Kevin will be off to Tombstone for the next day or two, but after that we can sit down with you and begin the designs. " "Sounds good. From my experience it doesn't take very long to make the costumes." Josie laughs, "Plus I am sure the stars of the show don't want their costumes upstaging them, nothing too elaborate."

"Thank you Mrs. Kelly. I, and I'm sure Ruby too, looks forward to working with you. In the meantime, if you have time, you might want to read up on Romeo and Juliet." Josie bids her good day and heads home, feeling like she accomplished something useful.

Meanwhile, Ginnie slips past Mrs. Kelly to the back room where she quickly inventories the cloth that they have available. She leaves a note on the sewing table "With the fire in Tombstone they are shipping people out. We are going to be able to increase our sales faster than we can sew as there is also a problem with the train supplies will be limited. I'm taking some money and picking up whatever cloth I can from the store before the price goes through the roof. You may want to have the girls start to cut basics as I believe we will not be able to keep up with the demand. Ginnie" After that Ginnie gathers her "stash cash" and heads to the general store.

Kate moved over to her mother where she was looking at the dresses already made. "This lady is quite talented," Amelie said with some surprise. "Yes," Kate agreed. "I have a few dresses that I bought here. I will have to show them to you. "We'll get enough to get you through a couple days and come back tomorrow to find a few things for the rest of your visit. Mrs. Kelly can take your measurements and do a few alterations so they'll fit correctly."

She looked over at her brothers and father, talking pleasantly with Kevin Kelly who was very quickly and professionally getting rough measurements for them. Her father and Henry both seemed interested primarly in suits like they had been wearing while Phillip wanted the more western style garb in the shop. This was going to take longer than she'd anticipated.

"Maman, will you all be alright here for a few minutes? I just realized I didn't ask when the stage from Wilcox would come in and I'm supposed to meet General Pleasants friends. I'll be right back." Kate reaches the Wells Fargo Office and the half-orc Coolie Fagan tells her that the Wilcox Stage is being run by Morand Cartage Company rather than Wells Fargo.

She make's a trip to the Morand Complex on the northeast end of town, finding that the stagecoach has already arrived, around a half-hour earlier. She is told by Zack Morand that the Stage was met by Mr. Job Kane, a frequent visitor to Wilcox, who knew several on board and extended an invitation to all of the passengers to join him at the saloon that he owns for a complimentary drink. Zack believes that they all accepted Job's offer.

Kate thanked Mr. Morand, then thought for a moment. She just could not be in two places at once and she was already late to meet the Caudell family. Finally she turned her steps to the El Parador in search of either Conrad or her teacher. Conrad Booth is sitting at his usual table eating his supper with Kate's brother Phillip, who is wearing his new Western attire having skipped the suggested bath. The two are chatting about the fire and Conrad's rescue of Josie Marcus from Brown's Hotel.

"I'm sorry to interrupt you gentlemen," Kate said with a smile. "Phil, did the others go to the bath house on their own? The stage is already here and I have to go get the Caudell's, but I didn't want to leave you all on your own."

He replies, "The others are still waiting for you back at the Dry Goods Store. I offered to come over here to see about the rooms and saw Conrad here sitting by himself and thought he could use some company. And the chili looked good so I thought I'd have a bowl too, good old western-style chili isn't something they serve in Boston. Do you want me to go back to the store with you or can I stay?"

"I just need someone they know to show them to the bathouse, so you going back wouldn't help much. Well, it would, actually. The bathouse is just down the street. If you'd just run back and let them know the Caudell's are already here, and I will see all of you back here after I have them settled. I hope you don't mind? I'm sorry to take your company away, Conrad," she apologized. "But knowing Phil he'll be back before you can finish your dinner."

Phil left to do the errand while Kate made her way over to the Lucky Lady. The place had around a dozen people there, many of whom she does not recognize. Realizing that Henry Pleasant's friends would be in their late thirties or early fourties and having a son in tow she looks around for them, finding the trio at a table chatting with Jeff Mills.

Kate took a deep breath and ruthlessly crushed any thoughts that drifted to where Mr. Caudell served during the war. Instead she put a pleasant smile on her face and approached the family. "I'm Mrs. Kale, are you Mr. Caudell?" He replies in a North Carolina accent, "Why yes Mrs. Kale, Henry said for me to try to locate you. Mr. Kane invited us over here for a drink. Since that is how Henry and I first got together I figured it would be a good way to approach this new town." He gestures to his two companions and says, "This is my wife Mollie and son Melvin."

Kate smiled gently at the boy, then turned to his mothers and said, "How do you do?" politely. "This is a good place to start, I work here most evenings. The General asked me to help you find a place to stay. There a few houses available, but for tonight my neighbors run a boarding house and they should have a room for you."

Nate says, "Oh, that's good. It is getting late and I was worried that there may not be anything available here what with so many people from Tombstone having to move on." Kate replies, "If all else fails, there is room in my home. I have a little house out on my ranch as well that you could stay in" Nate says, "That is a very generous offer to make to a stranger." Kate replies, "Well, I'm certainly not going to let a family sleep on the street when I can do something about it."

Mollie says, "Henry was telling me about this town....that it is considering giving the right to vote to women. That's why we came, we were thinking originally of going to the Utah Territory, where women already have that right. Is it true that one of the lawmen in this town is a woman?" Kate says, "Yes, Helen Barker. She earned the job by proving she was a better shot than most of the men in town during a Merchant's Association meeting.” Mollie exclaims, "Hot Damn! That sounds like somebody I have to meet!" Kate gave a startled smile after Mollie's exclamation about Helen.

Kate says, “She and I have talked about how to make sure women get that right. There are several women on the Merchant's Association. I think we have a good chance." Mollie replies, "Good, sounds like I may like it here." Kate replies, "I hope so. I like it here myself. Mrs. Barker plays here every other Saturday night. Her husband gives a concert. If you're really anxious I could take you by their photo studio. I have to meet my family at Mrs. Gilson's bathouse. Would you care to accompany me, or would you like to find a room?"

Nate says, "Let's find us somewhere to stay. We bathed last night in Willcox, so could probably wait until tomorrow for another one." Kate says, "Well, then, if you're ready let's head over to Fly's and see if Mrs. Fly has an open room." They arrive at Fly's but discover that there is no longer an available room, as Roger needed to give it to his brother and sister-in-law who had lost their home and business in Tombstone.

"We could try some of the other boarding houses, but I'm afraid we'll hear more of the same. My house is right behind, let's just go there." Kate led the family over to her house, uncertain about leaving these strangers there, but she had to get back to her own family. She unlocked the door into the schoolroom and led them inside. "I'm afraid there's not much to entertain you here. If you'd like to drop your things here, I can take you down to the El Parador where I'll be bringing my family shortly."

Thirteen-year-old Melvin asks "Why aren't they staying here with you Mrs. Kale?" "There isn't quite enough room for all of us," Kate smiled. "If they were only going to be here a night or two I'd have them stay here. But they'll be here two weeks at least and I think we'd all start to feel crowded. I used to live at the El Parador, and I wanted them to see that too. Plus I'm going to start teaching next week, and I didn't want them to worry about being disturbing rattling around the rest of the house."

Ginnie stumbles into the back door of the house her arms filled with bolts of cloth. She exclaims, “Oh, I didn't realize anyone was here. Ma'am Kate I think I'm set if we end up with a rush from Tombstone.”

"We just got here, Ginnie," Kate said, hurrying over to take some of the bolts out of her hands. "This is Mr. and Mrs. Caudell and Melvin Caudell. Mrs. Fly is full up at the boarding house, and instead of running around town trying to find them a room I thought we could just let them stay in our spare room." She turned to the little family and said, "This is my ward, Ginnie."

Young Melvin's eyes light up and a silly grin crosses his face. He tells Ginnie, "A pleasure to meet you." The parents leave the youngsters to chat and follow Kate to see what she has to offer them for lodgings. "I'm afraid it's not large," Kate said as she led them up the stairs, "but it should be comfortable for just the one night."

She opened the door to the small spare bedroom that would be the nursery in a few months. The wainscotting had been painted cream, and the upper half of the walls papered in a soothing light blue. The bed was just wide enough for two and made up with linens to match the walls. A small bureau and a bedside table completed the furniture, and lace edged the linens and the cream colored window-curtains. "We'd have to make up a pallet for Melvin. There is a sofa downstairs we could make up for him, but I doubt you'd want him away from you in a strange place."

Mollie says, "I'll take the sofa, I can sleep on anything, let the men have the bedroom." "Men are terribly delicate when it comes to sleeping, aren't they?" Kate said lightly. "As long as you're sure you'll be comfortable, we'll make up the sofa for you. I hate to be in a hurry, but I do need to meet my family. The fire in Tombstone threw everything off, as you know very well. You've had a drink but I imagine you need dinner. The El Parador is on the way to the bathouse; we could escort you there and join you a little while later if you like. Dorita would take excellent care of you."

Ginnie offers to stay and help get the Caudell family settled. "Thank you, honey," Kate said and hugged her. She made a quick trip upstairs and got out of her dirty leather riding clothes and into a fresh dress. Her braid was rapidly undone and she just brushed her hair out then pulled it back with a ribbon. As she passed through downstairs again she said, "Make yourself at home with whatever you can find in the kitchen. I'm not sure how long I'll be gone, but I'll try not to make it too long."

She hurried down the street, peeking inside the El Parador to make sure her family had not arrived there yet before going all the way to the bath house. Laurie Gilson indicates that the Seagrams are all getting baths at the moment. Kate begged for one of her own, and sank gratefully into the water in the same room with her mother. She could have wished for a bit more time to soak, but for now she was just happy to get clean. Once everyone was bathed and dressed in fresh clothes, Kate led them all down to the El Parador to get checked in and get some dinner.


[DM’s Note: The characters of Henry Pleasants, Nate Caudell and Mollie Bean (Caudell) were real people who served in the Civil War. Harry Turtledove used all three of them as characters in his excellent alternate historical fiction novel The Guns of the South which was set in the 1860’s. I decided to use his interpretation of those characters as they might be in 1882]

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter Twenty-two, “Indian Troubles”, Friday, May 26th, 1882, 7:30 P.M.

Nanuet spends the rest of his day catching up on work around the Lucky Lady, showing Thom where things went and how to stock the shelves properly. He continues to work with the puppies whenever time allowed and also checked in on Ruby and Jake's house morning and evening.

When Chester gets back to Promise City he drops off his horse at the stable and visits Clarisse. She gives him a big hug when she sees him. "Oh, Chester. I was so worried about you. I couldn't sleep." He replies, "I missed you too. We just got in. Tombstone's a mess. It'll take them a while to rebuild. Was the ride back OK for you?"

She says, "The driver had to take it slow because of darkness, so the trip took longer. It was hard to rest because the coach was full. But we made it back just fine." The pair rest in the Double Eagle's sitting room for a while, before Clarisse falls asleep. Chester leaves for the Lucky Lady.

Chester gets a hold of Jeff Mills there. "Hey there Jeff. How are you?" Jeff replies, "Good, Deputy. Glad to see you made it out of Tombstone alright. I heard the fire was really bad. About half the town, right?" Chester nods, "I've heard even more. But yeah, it was bad. Lucky for them our fire wagon was at the train station waiting to be delivered. Their wagon caught fire and burned so they used ours. Marshall Williams said to tell you thanks for the loan."

Chester asks, "Do they still need it?" "They don't need it anymore. No one can deliver the wagon here, so you'll have to send some men out there to pick it up." Jeff says, "Well, with Nanuet back now and Thom around too I should be able to get away to head over there this weekend to get it, there's enough stagecoaches running the trip. Figure I'll get some advice from the Tombstone guys while I'm at it, since they're now experienced in fire fighting. Guess I'll leave tomorrow morning."

Chester says goodbye to Jeff and heads for the table. Five men enter the Lucky Lady. Chester recognizes four of them as ranchers Emery Shaw, Ashley King, Forest Morand and his son Tempel Morand. He does not recognize the fifth. They have a seat at one of the larger six-person tables. Shaw gestures for Chester to come join them. He takes the offered seat in a cloud of soot. He says, "How are you gentlemen? Sorry. I'm still sooty from Tombstone. A damn shame. What's this about?"

Nanuet sees the five men enter the Lucky Lady and recognizes most of them. When they call Chester over Nanuet's interest in piqued. He helps Harry with their drink order and makes sure his "work" keeps him close enough to their table that he can hear most of what they are saying.

Shaw introduces Chester to the other man at the table as Calvin Oldfield, owner of the Circle-T Ranch situated around six miles west of town alongside Five Mile Creek. Forest Morand says, "We just talked Calvin here into joining our new Cattleman's Association and also to add his ranch to the new town."

Shaw interjects, "It only makes sense," gesturing to the Morands and King and stating, "since his ranch is located between our three." King calls Harry Rote over to the table and orders a round for his friends and adds, "And whatever the good Deputy would like as well."

Shaw introduces Chester to the other man at the table as Calvin Oldfield, owner of the Circle-T Ranch situated around six miles west of town alongside Five Mile Creek. Forest Morand says, "We just talked Calvin here into joining our new Cattleman's Association and also to add his ranch to the new town." Morand says, "We intend for the Sulphur Spring Valley Cattleman's Association to be a very powerful voice, not only here in Promise City but in communities of Tombstone and Dos Cabezas as well. After the mines play out we're going to be the economic strength of the region."

Shaw says, "Which brings us to you Mr. Martin. I must say, I was mighty impressed with both of our first meeting. Not once but twice you had the backbone to take on those awful Cowboy rustlers, and that was even before you wore that badge." Ashley King adds, "And my mother has heard very good things about you too from that young woman you are courting." Chester laughs, "Well, thank you. That's good to hear Mrs. King approves of me."

Morand says, "Once we get our slate of candidates elected we hope that you'll be willing to stay on as Deputy and give your full support to our new Town Marshall." Shaw interjects, "It only makes sense," gesturing to the Morands and King and stating, "since his ranch is located between our three." King calls Harry Rote over to the table and orders a round for his friends and adds, "And whatever the good Deputy would like as well." Chester says, "I'd be glad to stay on as Deputy. Who are you running in the elections?"

Morand says, "It would be premature to pick candidates right now, the qualifications haven't even been decided yet. Plus we hope to enlist a few more members in the Association before we decide so would want their input too. As of now we have our four ranches, which are four of the five largest in the region. We figure we have four smaller ranches to ask about joining." Emery Shaw says, "Actually five. Back when I was helping put up fencing I heard that Pete's Ranch and Mrs. Kale's are adjacent but are independently owned."

Chester says, "I guess it is too early. We don't even have an election day yet. Pete's Ranch is owned by Flint Greymountain and Mrs. Kale's is owned by her, Sonoma Figures, and Nanuet. Did you speak to the smaller ranches yet?" Shaw says, "Not yet, I figured we would start here. Will Mrs. Kale be coming in later on?" Chester says, "Yes, but I don't know when. Her family's in town, so she'll show them around a bit. They'll want to see where she spent most of her time."

Minerva hears news of her friends return to town and hurries over to the Lucky Lady to see with her own eyes that they are all safe. She hurries in the door and sees a tired, sooty Chester, deep in conversation with King and Shaw. She rushes across the room and surprises him with a tight hug. She steps back and looks at him questioningly "You are not hurt? and the others? are they safe? Where is Nanuet?" Ashley King points Minerva to the opposite side of the table and a short distance away and says, "I believe that your friend Nanuet is over there."

Minerva sighs in relief when Ashley point out Nanuet. "Senor King! It is a pleasure to see you again. Por Favor, Forgive my rudeness, my worry for my friends safety has obscured my manners. Perhaps we can chat later?" she smiles brightly before turning back to Chester. "Do you have news of Senora Katherine? Ruby? Senor Jake? Are they safe?" Ashley says, "We can talk later when you have time, Priestess."

Chester replies, "Kate and her family are OK for the most part. Her brother was hurt, but a priest got to him in time. We came back this morning, so she's probably getting them settled. Ruby and Jake were lucky. Their train left before the fire reached the station. Nanuet found me in Tombstone."

Emery Shaw says, "It sounds like you've got your Indian sidekick well trained. I apologize for not understanding your relationship with him when we met out on the trail, you and the Priestess here seem to have trained him well." Before Chester can reply Oldfield interjects, "But an Indian? I can see how the elf's tracking skills would be helpful to you Deputy, but how can he ever be trusted?"

Minerva exclaims, "It is apparent that your Maman's were unsuccessful in training their sons to speak respectfully of others. I can assure you that Senor Nanuet is far more trust worthy and well mannered , than those who would dare put their own petty feelings before the Will of the gods, Senors. " Minerva walks off, before she can give in to the temptation to run them through with her rapier. Chester replies, "Mr. Oldfield, I trust him with my life. He's saved my life before and he's my friend. I'm a veteran of the Indian Wars, so I don't say that lightly."

Once she is out of earshot Ashley King says, "It's just a phase...she's attracted to the exotic quality of elves. Once she finds out how differently our races really are she'll start looking to humans again." Tempel Morand elbows his friend and says, "Yeah, sure she will Ash, and where do you suppose half-elves come from? You might as well give it up and start looking for another gal."

Chester smiles. He asks Ashley, "You have your eye on the priestess? She's a fiery one. If you want my advice, you better start watching what you say around her if you want her to even look your way." Chester thinks, Not that even that will help, since you can't change your mother. Interesting bit of information, though.

Temple Morand turns to Chester and interjects, "You have to cut Calvin some slack, he's been having his own Indian troubles the past week or so." Oldfield says, "Yes, but not as bad as the Stu Greene, they've been stealing from him for a couple of weeks now." Shaw says, "See, I told you those Apache wouldn't keep to the treaty." Chester states, "How do you know they're Apaches? It could just be bandits or even Cowboys who won't stay down. I could ask around to find out if the Apaches are on the warpath.

Nanuet sees Minerva and can tell her mood. He walks over and puts a hand on her shoulder for just a moment before approaching the table where Chester sits with the ranch hands. "I couldn't help but hear my name gentlemen, but I don't believe we have met sir." he says extending his hand to the stranger. "I heard you are having trouble with the Apache. I helped negotiate the treaty, perhaps there is something I can do to help?" Minerva breaths deeply and masters her anger. She smiles When Nanuet walks over, but stays alert for any trouble.

Calvin Oldfield has a shocked look on his face at being addressed by an elf. A few seconds of silence follows until Ashley King says, "Sure Nanuet, pull up a chair." He then yells across the room to Harry, "Mr. Rote, please bring Nanuet a mug of his favorite beverage." Chester lets go of the breath he'd been holding when Oldfield reacted to Nanuet. "Evening Nanuet. This is Mr. Oldfield. He has a ranch near town."

Emery Shaw tells Oldfield, "Nanuet is the one who helped negotiate that treaty last January between the Army and the Apache." "Which they've now broken," Oldfield interjects. Forest Morand says, "Actually I don't think it's the Apache. I have a few of them working part-time on my ranch, and they say that Geronimo is sticking to the Chiricahua Mountains. Your ranch and the Green Valley Farm are by those hills in the southwest Dos Cabezas Mountains."

Nanuet states, "I am a tracker. I could take a look around if you like, perhaps I could come to the bottom of things." Morand says, "That sounds like a good idea. Why don't you and Deputy Martin head out there tomorrow and take a look. Cal, tell them what's been going on."

Oldfield says, "Around five days ago I started loosing chickens, one or two a night. We figured it was a wolf or coyote and started posting guards at night. They took a calf that night instead, the guard said it was a pair of elves. I then talked to Greene, he said that he's been loosing livestock for a week now, started with chickens. Saw an elvan boy running off with one on Tuesday. But last night they took a 400 pound hog, pulled it off on some type of sled, had to be more than just a boy to do that."

Nanuet states, "I would be glad to help. You can count on me. If you'll excuse me I have some things to attend to. I'll be out tomorrow to have a look around. Have a pleasant evening. Next round is on me gentlemen." Nanuet waits for a few moments to see if there is any response. The two younger men, Ashley King and Tempel Morand, are both quick to thank him. Tempel's father and Shaw then each add a quick thanks. Oldfield does not speak.

Nanuet then heads to the bar and pays Harry for a round of drinks for the five ranchers. He then heads to Minerva and smiles. "You can breath now, unclench those teeth. You did good, keeping your calm. I have to help around here tonight, I am sure you understand." She replies, "I will stay as well then, although the air in here is rather rank this evening." she takes his arm. "Nanuet, be careful. They are not your friends. Do not trust them."

"OK, I will take your words to heart. I do worry about the situation with the elfs though, I did help to negotiate that treaty and I don't want to see a war. If I can help them figure out what is going on, then I will feel much better about things and they can see more of who I really am."

Chester asks Oldfield, "What's the guard's name? The one that first night. I want to talk to him; ask him exactly what he saw." He replies, "My guard? Will Flynn. Not sure of the Guard over at Greene's, you'll have to ask there." Chester nods. "I'll do that. Do Indians use sleds? Anyway, if the trail's fresh, we'll track them back. Unless there's something else, good night."

Kate and her family arrived in the busy Cantina and wound their way over to the table where Phil was still sitting with Conrad. As soon as she saw Dorita she hurried over to hug her. "You already met Phil, I see. That must be at least his second bowl of chili," she laughed. "Come meet the others." "Si, your brother eats like you should!" Dorita said as Kate took her over to the table.

"Dorita Figures, my mother, Amelie Seagram, my father Fredrich, and my brother Henry." Dorita tells the Seagrams "You have a wonderful daughter, you should be very proud of her." She takes their food orders. While the Seagrams are dining the evening crowd begins to arrive, with Estaban starting up a chorus of Spanish Guitar in the background. Conrad excuses himself to head off to the Long Branch. Phil looks to his parents and asks "Can I go with him?" Conrad assures them that the will keep a close eye on the boy and the two head off together.

Kate sat down for a quiet dinner with her family, finding now that she could stay still that she was incredibly tired; greatly due to the fact that she hadn't eaten anything since breakfast. Her mother looked a little overwhelmed by the atmosphere of the Cantina, but her father seemed comfortable and Henry was wide awake with interest. She explained about the Caudell's during their meal.

Frederick Seagram says, "Yes, Henry told me about his friends during the soldiers stay in Boston after you left. He sounds like a good man. Apparently his wife couldn't read when they first met, and she wasn't ashamed to admit as an adult that she couldn't read. Nathan spent two years with Mollie as her teacher before they ever started courting. Henry says that she's a powerfully strong woman, raised their first son Nate Junior to be a chip off the old block. Right now he's away in a military school and Henry plans to help get him sponsored for West Point.

What do you think of their other son? Henry says they've had some problems with that boy." Kate replies, "I haven't had much chance to talk with them yet, so it's hard to say. He seemed like a friendly boy, curious. And Ginnie seemed to turn his head a bit, so I can't fault his instincts," she said with a laugh. "Mrs. Caudell did seem to be a strong woman. She's anxious to meet of lady Deputy Marshall. I think we could be friends."

Frederick Seagram states, "General Pleasants says they are good people and he's a good judge of character. I believe he called her a 'straight shooter', one who dispenses with small talk and gets right to the heart of the matter." Mrs. Seagram says, "Somebody like that would be eaten alive by Boston Society." Frederick adds, "True, but she should fit right in out here."

In a sudden moment of honesty Kate blurted out, "It's one of the reasons I decided to stay here." She looked down for a minute but looked right back up. "I never realized how much society's rules weigh on a person until I didn't have to live by them anymore. Understand, I haven't thrown them all out the window, but it's nice to just be myself and not a caricature. She will do well here as long as she doesn't care if Mrs. King likes her, and somehow I doubt she will."

Kate's mother asks, "So why is this Mrs. King so powerful?" Kate answers, "She's the driving force behind the Vigilance Committee, and from what I can tell the money behind it as well. Imagine, in the incorporation the Merchant's Association with over fifty members and the Committee, with only five, have to agree on the terms. Now, I don't begrudge anyone their voice, but that gives those five people and Mrs. King an enormous amount of power.

She seems to be trying to set herself up as society. She wants to make the city civilized. I want that too, but she wants it to be like back East and this town couldn't survive that way. Anyway, I am getting along just fine here and Mrs. King hates me. I decided the right society are the people with good hearts, not the people with all the right appearances."

Frederick says, "Good for you Katherine, it appears that we raised you correctly." They finish the meal and her father suggests, "Why don't you give us a few minutes to go get better settled into our rooms. Then you can show us where you work." "Of course, Papa. They'll probably need me tonight. It's always busy on Fridays and it might be more so with people coming in from Tombstone. I hope they won't though. I don't think I'm up to a long night."

The Seagrams head upstairs. While they are gone Dorita comes over to Kate and says, "You have nice family. They welcome to stay here as long as they want to." "I have two nice families," Kate said and kissed Dorita's cheek. "I'm glad you like them. I hope you and Pedro will keep an eye out for Phil. I think he's just a little overexcited about being in the West."

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter Twenty-three, “The Seagrams visit the Lady”, Friday, May 26th, 1882, 7:30 P.M.

The Seagrams return ten minutes later, just as Ginnie arrives at the El Parador with the Caudell family in tow. " Hello Dorita!" Ginnie yells out as she dumps the family at an empty table and runs over. "I brought the new folks that Ma'am Kate has staying at the house tonight", she lowers her voice to a whisper "they don't look rich but they do look hungry and so am I! and there's no better place in town to be fed than here that and I need some new reading materials all the ones we bought got burned up in the fire in Tombstone." She give Dorita a quick hug and heads for the kitchen.

"That girl is a whirlwind," Amelie said with a shake of her head. Kate quickly made the introductions between her family and the Caudells as the new arrivals sat down to dinner. "We were just on our way to the Lucky Lady, you caught us just in time. Has Ginnie taken good care of you?"

Mollie says, "Yes, she's quite the young lady. I believe Melvin is a bit taken by her." The boy's face turns red with embarrassment at that comment. Nate says, "We'll get a bite to eat here and then catch up with you there if that's alright."

Just then Ginnie comes back to the table plates of food balanced on her arms which she lays in front of the family. "Everything here is good so I figured I'd just save the time and fill the plates for you haven’t eaten anything until you taste Dorita's chili and cornbread dumplings." She tucks a biscuit into her mouth and turns back to the kitchen scanning the room. chewing quickly She looks to Dorita "Is he here or will I need to wait until later to get something new and to tell him all about the fire?" Dorita says to Ginnie, "No, he out of town. He say he not be back until tomorrow or Sunday."

"Of course," Kate said, a bit relieved. "Dorita will make sure you don't go away hungry. We'll see you in a little while." Kate took her chance when Ginnie stopped for Dorita's answer to kiss her forehead and say, "We're headed for the Lucky Lady now. Make sure you come by later, alright?"

“I guess I can wait until tomorrow for a new book,” Ginnie states. She looks to pout for a minute but then keeps going "I'll need to bus the tables tonight anyway I think at the Lucky Lady, with it being Friday and all that and the Tombstone crowd is likely to be coming in at a pace soon. Oh, by the way you may want to make sure you stock up on supplies I think this town is going to be pretty busy for a while until they start getting Tombstone back up and running. that and the prices are likely to double so get what you need now before it does double in price.”

Ginnie tucks in a quick meal hugs Dorita grabs a cookie and heads to the Lucky Lady.
Henry offered her an arm, and she led her family out of the El Parador on the short walk to the Lady. There they saw Chester, Nanuet and Minerva, as well as Emery Shaw and several other men. As they walked inside she said, "Jake and Ruby each own one quarter, as well as Mr. Kane over there, and Mr. Rote."

Kate led them over to Job. "Good evening, Job. I'd like to introduce you to my family. My father Colonel Fredrich Seagram, my mother Amelie , and my brother Henry." Job stands and shakes all of their hands "Welcome to Promise City. I heard that you had quite the ordeal in Tombstone. I'm glad you made it through that safely. Welcome to the Lady, I think you'll like it here. Great food, wonderful music and honest gambling it that interests you."

"Can't say I ever gambled," Friedrich said, "But I've always enjoyed good music and good food. It's nice to put faces with the names Katherine's spoken about." Henry gave him a firm handshake and said, "I might try a bit of cards later."

Nanuet notices Kate and her family had entered. "Look" he says motioning towards Kate "that must be Kate's family, we should go say hello." Nanuet then leads Minerva by the hand over to Kate. Kate smiled brightly as Nanuet and Miss Florencia came over. She repeated the introduction of her family, then said, "This is Nanuet, and Miss Florencia." "Yes, we've heard a great deal about both of you," Friedrich said, extending his hand. "It's my pleasure to meet you."

Minerva approaches Katherine but knowing that she is not comfortable with Minerva's displays of affection, refrains from hugging her. Her happiness however is evident in her eyes as she addresses her. "Senora Katherine, I am so happy to see you home safe.. and your brother, will he recover?"

Henry offered his hand with a wide smile. "I'll be just fine. This sling here is a bit of a nuisance, but the doc said it's just for a few days. Henry Seagram, Miss Florencia. Glad to make your acquaintance." "My brother Phillip went with Conrad to the Long Branch. He can't seem to see enough fast enough," Kate added. Minerva laughs. "I know how he feels. Promise City is certainly a colorful place!" Henry nods with a smile. "I'm hoping to find it so, myself. You haven't been here long yourself, I understand."

Nanuet shakes the hands of everyone Kate introduces. He smiles and exchanges simple pleasantries. "So, seems like you had an interesting last leg of your trip. I am glad to see everyone is in high spirits despite the drama in Tombstone. Hopefully the rest of your time spent here will be enjoyable." "Every day seems to be an adventure here, maybe just the thing to wake us old people up," Friedrich said lightly.

Ginnie floats around the floor of the Lucky Lady picking up dirty glasses listening to the conversations going on and clearing tables. Chester makes his way to Kate and her family. He tips his hat. "Evening folks. I'm Chester Martin. How do you do?" "Yes, we saw you in Tombstone helping out," Friedrich said. "Seems my daughter makes good choices in friends."
Chester replies, "Thank you sir. You taught her well. I'm glad to see you all made it here safely."

As only two of Job Kane's regular players have arrived thus far he heads over to the table with the ranchers and inquires if any of them wish to join his game. Forest and Temple Morand both say that they will as does Oldfield. Emery Shaw says "I may join you after I have a chance to speak to Mrs. Kale." Ashley King says, "I'll pass, I want to listen to the lady sing" as he gestures to Clairisse Townsend who has just entered the Saloon.

Chester sees Clarisse enter. He waves her over. "Clarisse, you've met the Kales, right?" She replies, "Yes, Chet. I stayed with them after the fire. They were so nice to me."

Emery Shaw approaches the Seagram group. He says, "Hello Mrs. Kale. Did I hear correctly, that these fine people are your relatives?" "Yes. Mr. Emery Shaw, my family," Kate began and again repeated her introductions. "Mr. Shaw has given us assistance on more than one occasion when we've found trouble on the road to Tombstone."

Shaw talks briefly with the Seagrams. He then says, "If I could please borrow your daughter for a few minutes there is a business matter that I need to discuss with her." Kate glances over towards the stage, thinking she would have to accompany Clairisse but notices Harry Rote moving towards the piano bench instead as the young woman climbs up to entertain the crowds.

The Seagrams found a table and have a seat with Nanuet, Chester, and Minerva while Kate accompanied Mr. Shaw. "What matter of business can I help you with, Mr. Shaw?" Emery Shaw replies, "Several of us area ranchers have started up a new organization, The Sulphur Spring Valley Cattleman's Association. At present four of the five largest ranches in the region have joined, my Lazy-S, the Morand's Rocking-H, the King's Bar-W, and Calvin Oldfield's Circle-T. We've intentionally skipped asking the Thayer Ranch to join, as Nick Thayer is know to have been involved with the Cowboy Gang last year back with Curly Bill was running that group. We've now been talking about asking most of the smaller ranches in the area to join as well. Would you be interested?"

Kate replies, "I can't speak for Sonoma or Nanuet, but for myself yes, I would be. My husband felt that ranching is what would keep this part of the country going. Mines don't last forever. It's always a good idea for those of us with like interests to support each other. I'm not certain if we will chose to be a part of the town though. My main worry is since I'm the only human partner and not a man laws that might be passed could make it difficult for us to operate. What would be required of us in the Association?"

He replies, "One of the main objectives of the Association will be to influence the laws and development of the towns, not just Promise City but Tombstone and Dos Cabezas as well. For Promise City to work for us we need to become a main force, and we can do that by promoting our own slate of candidates. Right now Ashley is trying to have us work with the Vigilance Committee to put forth a combined slate. Forest and I both have some reservations about that ourselves but it's better than the other alternative, namely Fisk and whatever the Earps have left of the Cowboy Gang.

At present though it's much better for us to work together with the Vigilance group at least until the town decides who can vote. Not everybody believes in Bill Watkins position that it should be human male landowners. While I personally would never trust an Apache I wouldn't think of denying the vote to people like the Escobars. Manny Escobar's house has stood where it is for over a century while most of the rest of the town grew up around it only two years ago."

She replies, "I've made no secret of my dislike for the Vigilance Committee, and I have reservations as well. Honestly Mr. Shaw, I had planned to vehemently oppose almost anyone they put forth. Of course, I was assuming it would be people like Bill Watkins. The slate method for the vote makes me very nervous. But I'm glad to hear you feel that race shouldn't be a factor in who can vote. There are many good, valuable people here who deserve to have their voices heard. People like the Escobars. I'm definitely interested, but considering the Vigilance Committee I'm going to need a little time to consider.”

He replies, "Just be careful that you don't back yourself into a corner being too narrow in your choices. There is strength in numbers and working directly with people is a good way to get compromise. For example, Bill Watkins and Jim Eaton both want to see all saloons in town closed down. Forest and I disagree, people need a place to unwind, so we will instead recommend to the combined group that they seek to perhaps impose reasonable closing times such as 11:00 P.M. and midnight on weekends." She says, "You're right, of course. I just have to decide how far I'm willing to bend."

She adds, “Beside that I need to speak to Sonoma and Nanuet." He replies, "Of course. Tomorrow I plan to head out to Pete's Ranch and speak with your friend Flint. I suspect he'll join given Dwarven honor being what it is. One rancher helping another is a key goal of this Association and he's sure to remember the assistance that I gave him before."

"Forgive me if I'm forgetting something I should know, but I don't recall ever hearing about that," she said with interest. "If you mean something beside the day we saw you after we got Chester and Nanuet back." Shaw says, "That's when I'm talking about. Not just our driving the cattle there but then coming back and putting up all that fencing. We didn't charge you or him one cent for all the labor or materials. My plan is to have the Association do that for all new ranchers that decide to start up here to help get them off on the right foot. We might even start sharing resources for cattle drives too, I know the Morands would appreciate that."

"And I still can't tell you how grateful we are for that help," Kate said with a smile. "And helping others get started is something I'd like to be a part of. Thank you for inviting us. I'll let you know in a day or two, but I'm fairly certain I'll convince myself that I can deal with the committee."

At the table Henry says, "I'm sure the fire in Tombstone is affecting my judgment, but from what my sister says as well things don't calm down around here very often. I realize just how much all of you must have done to keep her safe here while she's learned how to get along. We can't tell you how grateful we are for that." "Your sister does have a way of livening things up a bit."
Minerva says with a mysterious smile. "Well I think Kate has helped me as much as I may have helped her. In the time that I have known her she has certainly blossomed."

Chester turns to Henry and says, "She's done just as much keeping us upright as us. But, yeah, things are exciting around here. So much for the sleepy town image. How's the arm?" He replies, “fine.” Henry turned slightly as his father continued to talk to Nanuet. "I did notice something different about her in Boston. But in this place I think it's come into your own or be trampled, and Jacqueline was never one to let herself be trampled. You don't seem to be that type either. What brought you this far west? My sister crossed a country, you crossed an ocean." "My destiny brought me here. I go where the gods will. and they Will me here." she says and shrugs her shoulders noncommittally. He replies, "Understand, I am a man of faith, so I understand believing in their guidance. But I have never found that kind of certainty."

Minerva replies, “Do not dwell on the thought. When it becomes necessary, It will find you, Senor. You are welcome to attend services at our new church while you are in town. I think that you will find it a refreshing change from what you are used to in Boston." "Oh, you'll see all of us." A shadow crossed his face as he continued, "Well, except Katherine but I'd guess you know that already. I'll admit, at Boston services I always feel it's more about praising the priests than the gods."

“She has helped me to get along here in town which is no small feat I assure you." Nanuet replies meekly to Fredrick and Amelie Seagram. “I think Kate has helped me as much as I may have helped her. She has helped me to get along here in town which is no small feat I assure you." Nanuet replies. Minerva adds, "Si, Senor Nanuet is a man of many talents. He has been a great help to me as well as to others.”

"We hear plenty of reports about the conflicts between humans and elves out here. Kate indicated that they're highly exaggerated, but I imagine choosing to live in a mostly human town must be hard on you. What made you decide to stay here?" Amelie asked.

Nanuet stops for a minute, a bit of a glassy look in his eyes as he reminisces. "I had no intentions to stay here, but once I got here I found friends and a home. Something I never really had before. I like it here, and I can make myself useful." "Feeling useful is one of the most important things," Friedrich said. "I've seen a lot of people lost because they didn't feel they had a place. I've always thought that now and then the gods give a little nudge and bring people together who can help each other."

Minerva asks, “Henry, What are your plans? Would you like to be a cowboy and work your sister's ranch ?" Henry laughed. "I think my wife would object. I think she'd pass out from the sheer horror of packing up our girls and leaving everything behind."

Following his conversation with Kate Shaw goes to join the other three ranchers at Job Kane's table. Ashley King then approaches Kate and says, "Hello Mrs. Kale, I've been meaning to have a chat with you." Kate hid her surprise and said in an outwardly friendly voice, "Have you? I'm sure it would be a pleasure, although I can't imagine what you'd want to chat about. Please, have a seat and satisfy my curiosity."

He smiles and says, "You need to realize that I am not my mother. Actually, it is she who I wish to warn you about. Right now she is conspiring with Jim Eaton and Icabod Shackelton to rally against both your school and the notion of non-humans being allowed to vote. They're planning to be active in town the next three days."

"I'm sorry. It's been a long couple of days and my manners aren't what they should be." Kate sighed and relaxed a bit. "I certainly understand your mother isn't my biggest fan. I spoke harshly to her the one time we met, but I don't understand how I offended her before that. All I want is to offer an education to children who haven't had an opportunity to get one.”

He replies, "Which is commendable, education creates opportunity and understanding. After I move to town with my son Troy I will probably still have him tutored with the Eaton children, but not because I find you unfit. I just think he'll get more personal attention in a class of four than a class of twenty-four. Plus my mother will pay the bill for the tutor."

She says, “And I just don't understand wanting to deny people who live here a voice in their own lives.” Ashley answers, "I'm afraid that I can't fully agree with you there. Many of the people in town are transients, here today and gone tomorrow. It is highly unlikely that just because they live here right this minute they will still be here for the two-year-long terms of office of the elected officials. Why should they get to decide who the rest of us should have leading us?"

She asks, “Do you have any suggestions as to how to counter what they plan? What do they plan, anyway?" He replies, "I'm sorry, I don't know specifically what they have in mind. I just caught glimpses of their conversation. I do recall Eaton making reference to 'killing two birds with one stone' and I just assumed the two birds are your multi-race school and the multi-race voting. It's possible one of the birds is actually the Priestess, they are no fans of her either."

She says, "Well, if it is the multi-race nature of my school they object to, I think they'll be disappointed. I have been very honest with every parent I've spoken too. They are all aware that I am accepting students of all races and none have expressed a concern to me about that. You and I aren't so far apart about who should vote, either. I've been thinking we need to have some kind of residency requirement, but I can't figure a way to make it fair. For example, I have guests in my home tonight who intend to buy a home and live here.

If we used home, business, or land ownership as a criteria for residency they would be able to vote, but then someone who has lived here for two years but rents his room couldn't. It's a thorny problem. I do understand about wanting your son to get personal attention with his schooling. Being able to tutor Ginnie exclusively has been wonderful and I regret I won't be able to give her the time I did, but we must support ourselves."

Ashley replies, "Well then, I am glad that we had this conversation. Please give serious consideration to joining the Cattleman's Association. The more ranches that are involved the stronger a force we will be....and since we're not inviting three of the dozen to join due to their reputations and rumored associations with criminals I'm hoping that all nine of the legitimate ranches do join up." Kate answers, "I'll do that. I'm disposed to accept, but I need to take a little more time to think on it. Thank you for the warning, Mr. King. I appreciate it."

Minerva discreetly keeps an eye on Katherine and her conversation with Oldfield and Shaw knowing that they probably don't think much more of a female rancher than they do an elf. She is a bit annoyed when she notices that Katherine is smiling and responding in earnest to whatever it is that they are discussing and makes a mental not to warn her of their views.

"Something wrong, Miss Florencia?" Henry asked, noting her distraction. "Wrong? No, no. nothing is wrong." Minerva says dragging her attention back to Henry. "I was just concerned as to what business those two gentleman have with Senora Katherine." she shrugs her shoulders. "Forgive me, Por favor. "she smiles. " I am sure that all is well. I have a tendency to be a bit overprotective where my friends are concerned I suppose... But after all this is the wild west and a girl can not be too careful."

He replies, "You're right about that. Thankfully Jacqueline seems to have found people to watch her back. I imagine they're discussing ranching business of some kind."

After her conversation with Ashley King, Kate pitched in with the work at the Lucky Lady for about an hour. Her parents continued to talk with Miss Florencia, Nanuet, and Chester while Henry took a seat at Job Kane's table for a few hands where he managed to win just often enough to break even.

The Caudells came in and sat down with her family. While they all seemed to be enjoying themselves the last few days had been long and fatigue was showing on all the faces. She spoke briefly with Job, then suggested everyone retire for the night. They walked her family back to the El Parador and said good-night. Then Kate and Ginnie took their guests home, got them settled, and got to sleep well before ten o'clock at night.

Chester excuses himself early from the Seagrams and takes a seat to watch Clarisse perform. He struggles mightily with staying awake. After she's done, he walks her home. He kisses her goodnight then walks back home and stumbles into bed.

Minerva waits for Nanuet to finish up for the night and they stroll back to the house, arm in arm with the familiarity of an old married couple. The night air is refreshingly cool and clean in sharp contrast to the dank smell of sweat, tobacco and alcohol that permeated the saloon. Minerva inhales deeply and visibly relaxes as she leans her head on Nanuet’s arm. She scans the dark sky in search of Luna.

She asks, "Will you be going out to Oldfields's ranch tomorrow?" He replies, "I have to talk with Chester but I do believe I will be. I think it is very important to keep up good relations with the Apache and the ranchers and others. I don't want things to get hostile if I can help it. Is that OK or did you have other ideas?"

"You are right." Minerva sighs. " It is important to keep up good relations with the ranchers and the Apache. " She stops and turns to him. "Por favor be careful in your dealings with them, Mi Amor. They made some remarks which revealed their deep prejudice against your race and I am worried that they would treat you no better than a mangy cur. They made it quite apparent that they do not trust or think very highly of you, but perhaps by getting to know you, the ranchers will learn respect for you and others of your race." She looks up at the sky. "It is a beautiful night. Let us sleep in the grove."

Nanuet listens to the warnings that Minerva gives and takes them to heart. "I understand that some of them do not see me as their equal. I will be careful and watchful, I promise" he says as he leads them towards the tranquil grove. Nanuet calls to Maska to join them and keep watch so that he and Minerva may be together and rest without worry.

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter Twenty-four, "Dinner and Stories with the Partners", Friday, May 26th, 1882:

After breakfast, Jake leaves Ruby to visit the telegraph office and to enjoy the day with Jane while he attends to some 'business'. Though earlier than is his want, Jake gets Red to the lawyer and they finalize the paperwork making Jacob Cooke a partner in the meeting house. Red returns to the meeting house without Jake, who has other plans to finish before dinner.

Jake leaves the lawyers office with an air of pleasant determination, a spring in his step and a mental list of items rolling around in his head. He traverses the shops of Tuscon for hours, searching, examining, questioning and negotiating. Many hours later with his feet tired and his wallet $314.25 lighter he returns to the meeting house, satisfied. The delivery boy hauls the empty trunk, large enough to contain all his attractively wrapped purchases, into the building.

"Richard, could you arrange to store this for me and keep it secret from Miss West? There will be eighteen packages delivered to my attention here shortly, please have them placed in the trunk without Miss West knowing as well. They are surprises for her when we return home." He is feeling very good despite his stomach grumbling with hunger and his tongue complaining about lack of suitable drink. Once the trunk is put away Jake sets about finding some company, food and drink, but not necessarily in that order.

After Jake leaves at an ungodly hour Ruby falls back into bed to continue her vacation. Late morning she finally rises and dresses, then finds Jane. They enjoy a casual brunch before heading to the telegraph office, where Ruby, unconcerned about privacy this time, sends another telegram. Upon hearing of the new office set up, this one goes directly to Promise City.

After that the girls head back to the Meeting House where they spend the afternoon rehearsing for tonight's show and tomorrow night's ceremony. Ruby discusses her other gown choices with Jane, who concurs that her red and black gown and her green gown are both nice enough for the evenings festivities, which disappoints Ruby as she always loves to get new dresses.

Jane leaves Ruby at the bar to go speak to the kitchen about dinner. Ruby enjoys her time with Mr. Grappini and a bottle of fine champagne, waiting for something else to divert her attentions. Jake comes upon two of the three items he was looking for and decides that will do. "There is my girl. Mr. Grappini a fine glass of whiskey please. How did the day go? Are you and Jane all prepared for tonight?"

Ruby's lip form into a large smile as she turns to face Jake. "Hi darling. The day was great, although I missed you. Jane and I practiced for tonight and a little for tomorrow night. Should be a lot of fun, I'm excited. But that reminds me," she reaches out an arm for a cuddle and sips at her champagne with the free hand, "Do you not want me to help Jane tomorrow night?"

Jake, who had not even been thinking about the upcoming ceremony, suddenly loses his boyish grin. "Since WE are certain that only good ol' Jake goes to BED with the pretty redhead, I should not have a problem with it. You know I will not lie to you; I am not particulary fond of you sharing your nakedness with other men. Besides a bit of jealousy, it leads to no good. The primary reason I was angry last time was that you told me you would not, and then did anyway." He downs the whiskey the Italian gave him and taps the bar with the glass, getting his attention.

"However, I know it is meanful to you. I personally enjoy it, I cannot lie about that either. Does it cause any more trouble for us than you flashing that pretty smile or your suggestive singing to a bunch of drunk patrons? This boy is not smart enough to know. Do what you feel is right, and no deceit." Jake accepts the refill from the bartender with a nod. Before he picks up the glass he reaches out and grabs the front of Ruby's dress with a finger and pulls her in close to his face. "If you perform the seductive dance for the worshipping masses, I expect it to be worth my while," he says and ends with a kiss that lingers for several long moments.

Ruby enjoys every second of the kiss and the closeness of Jake, letting him be the one to finally pull away from her. She doesn't let him go far. "I don't even know if Jane wants me to dance, or sing, but if she does," she puts her hands on his face and looks deep into his eyes, "You can truly believe this time it's all for you. I promise you with all my heart. And if you didn't want me to, I wouldn't, and would not be sad about it." She is quiet for a moment, letting her words sink in.

A devilish smile appears on her face. "You know what? I'm starving and it's time for dinner. I hope Mr. Patrick or Jane shows up soon. But while we're waiting," she closes the small gap between them, wrapping her arms around his neck, "Why don't you tell me what exactly would make my dancing worth your while..."

"Heh, and pit my meager imagination against one inspired by the goddess Aphrodite? I think that is exactly the point." Jake chuckles and his mood seems to have lightened. Ruby laughs too. "You know, Mr. Cook, one of these days I'm going to run out of ideas. Then what are we going to do?" She kisses him again but out of the corner of her eye spots Mr. Patrick.

"Good evening," she calls out to Red. "I hope you're coming to tell us dinner is ready. We're both starved!" He replies, "Indeed it is, back to the owner's dining room. My friends and co-owners Richard as well as Father Blackstone will be joining us for the meal."

They head upstairs to find place settings for all of them. T-bone steaks, sliced potatos in a cheese sause, garden salads, and honey-coated carrots await. Ruby smiles with glee as she sits. "This looks wonderful!" She waits for the other to sit before she begins to eat. "So what did you do today Mr. Patrick, anything interesting?"

Red replies, "Jake and I met with my attorney and made his partnership official." They are joined by the other two who Red had mentioned. He looks to Jake and Ruby and says, "You've both already met Richard, I would like to also introduce you to Father Joseph Nickolas Blackstone." "Just call me Joe," the man offers.

Red waits until they are all seated and for wine to be poured. The waiter then departs, leaving the six of them alone. Red says, "I wanted all of you here for this toast, as of all of the partners of this establishment you are the only ones I have a long history with. Each of the other partners were hired by my associates Mr. Allister or Mr. Van Horne. Each of you other three gentlemen I knew long before I ever set foot in the Arizona Territory. To old friends and future partners."

Ruby raises her glass of champagne high. "And to new friends too," she adds before sipping her agreement. "So," she places her glass down, "Joe, I've heard you are a priest of Hermes." She deliberately does not look at Jake. "What kind of things does a priest of Hermes do?"

He replies, "The usual, healing, services, things of that nature. My parents were proud of my going into the priesthood but disappointed in my choice of a patron deity. The god of thieves, gamblers and liars just doesn't carry that much respect. I found that true of the church hierarcy too, them seeing Hermes as just the messenger of the gods and treating me accordingly. After several years of useless clerical positions I rebeled. I demanded a better position or else I would quit. They decided to let me quit.

But unlike my colleage here Mr. Grappini, I was never defrocked, so I can still officially perform priestly duties. I first met Red when we were working the same Mississippi riverboat. I had taken the position of the boat's physician, as I could perform healing and they liked the idea of having a priest of gamblers on board."

Red interjects, "When Mr. Allister and I got the Water Hole Saloon going here in Tucson we needed to hire trustworthy folks as guards. I figured I wanted at least one of the guards to also have healing skills and immediatley thought of Joe. Took me a while to track him down since he wasn't assigned to any church, but in hindsight I'm glad that I did." Joe says "Yes indeed. I never imagined an opportunity to carry on the works of Hermes as is now before me. This is what I was led to do." "And profitable too," Richard interjects.

Ruby laughs, "The profitable part never hurts. It's great you found what you really should be doing. Seems Red here, with Jane's help, brought a lot of people to what they were always meant to do. That's pretty deep if you think about it."

Joe very sincerely interjects, "Let's also not forget Mr. Allister and Mr. Van Horne, they too deserve much of the credit." Jake catches enough of a reaction from Richard to that comment to confirm that the man has indeed already deduced the true nature of the secret identities.

Red says, "Well of course, but I haven't known them nearly as long as the rest of you. Richard and I met around seven years back in Chicago. Saved my life then and more than once since." Richard says, "We met when I was the bouncer in a floating gambling barge alongside Lake Michigan. A thief was on the verge of getting caught and decided to try to throw off suspition by accusing Red of being the thief."

Red continues the story saying, "Richard took us both into custody to try to sort it out. The other guy didn't hold up well to questioning and drew a gun, a massive 45-calibur job hidden in of all places a false compartment in the man's wooden leg. Richard managed to push me out of the way just in time or my head would have been blown clean off." Richard laughs and replies, "He gives me far too much credit, I was merely trying to push him out of the way to give myself a clean shot."

Red says, "Uh huh, and what about the time a year later that you warned me off in Saint Louis? I would have been killed for sure then." Richard says, "Just passing on some information to an old acquantance. I knew the lay of the land there and you didn't. Besides, you repaid me the favor last year in Dallas." "That's what old friends do," Red replies.

Ruby enjoys listening to the old 'war' stories. "Hey Red, you got any stories you want to tell about you and Jake here? I'd love to hear some. It takes a lot of needling to get facts out of this one," she points to Jake with her thumb. Red says, "I don't know that he'd appreciate my telling. But here's one for you, takes place in Columbia, Missouri, a town in the middle of the state.

We had been gambling in Kansas City together for a while when I received an invitation to high-stakes tournament back in Saint Louis. The quickest way to get there was along the Missouri River, which connects the two cities crossing the state in roughly an east to west route. But at the docks in Boonville we got wind of the fact that the County Sheriff was waiting to arrest us for a past indiscretion the following day downriver in Jefferson City. So we skipped out on the boat and got on an overland stagecoach east.

Well, this Sheriff was no fool and when we didn't show up in Jeff City he sent telegrams out looking for us. We spent a couple of days in Columbia, deciding to split up and rejoin a few days later once the coast was clear. I wound up hiding out with a local tomato farmer and schoolteacher named Lewis Hansbrough. A very nice man, who proved to be an excellent math tutor, taught me things I new knew before about mathematics.

Jake spent those days merchant named Tom Walton, a nice enough guy but he really had no head for business. Jake wound up giving the man lots of ideas on how to make his store more profitable. We wound up missing the poker game altogether and returning to the relative safety of Kansas City."

"Stories, huh," Jake says tapping his lips. "Alright, how is this one... long before I met Red."

Jake sits upright in his chair from the familiar slouch. "I had bought into a back room game at a sleazy tavern called the Pewter Mug in a small town near Fort Wayne. Looking back now, I should have been surprised they let a youngster like me into the game. That should have warned me off, but then I was itching to show off my poker skills. I was still pretty green at poker, but had already learned to palm cards and was not too bad at it.

This night, I discovered, there was not one but two of the other five players cheating in this game. I’m not talking nicking cards or dealing from the bottom; they were holding cards off the table and swapping them for cards in their hands. The three fellows not cheating were tough looking gents, and I who had recently turned seventeen was the only one at the table not carrying a side arm. It did not take long for most of my stake to end up in the hands of the two cheaters, and I needed to do something in an attempt to break even.

So I palmed an ace out of an otherwise poor hand. No one noticed. So I palmed another. I was waiting for a pair of anything figuring I could add the aces, bluff big, take one pot and retire. Wouldn’t you know, I drew two aces. So I asked for two cards and hid my discard of three. From there it was easy enough to add my other two aces in and palm the extra card. I figured I would leave the table with the extra card and most of my stake back calling it a lesson learned.

It would not be that simple for me that night. All six players stay in. The man to my left raises, and all around the table we call with my call using my last dollar. The cheater on the left two seats over proudly displays his cards, four aces. I just about panicked trying to decide whether to run or to put on a show. Act disappointed, throw my cards on the floor, stomp out the door, and then run like my life depended on it. Remember I always tell you watch the eyes? Well I look around the table and I notice that the other cheater has not put his cards down, his eyes have a scared look and a bead of sweat has broken out on his brow. Maybe I’m saved! Quickly, I place my cards face up on the table in a stack only showing the four of clubs and hiding the aces below and say, Damn I’m out, how close were you, feller? and point to the man, the only one who was still holding his cards.

Everyone looks to this man and there is a brief tense moment where not a word is spoken. Suddenly a man to my right lashes out and knocks the sweating cheater's cards to the table. Everyone looks down at the second set of four aces! There is an intake of breath from some folks who were watching. In a flash hands are moving to holsters and I dive to the floor. As I am falling I have the forethought to make a grab at the table and over it comes towards me. There is shouting and three guns shots. Then there is more shouting, men and furniture moving, the acrid smell of gun smoke and more gun shots. I grab a handful of money just dodging a bloody man who falls nearly landing on me. I yell, “Behind you” and bolt for the door as more gun shots erupt.

I ran and ran and ran until I was far out of town that night. Shaking with fear and cold I slept under some fir trees. I had lost about half my money and all my appetite for gambling in Huntington for a little while."

Richard says, "The common thread in all of these stories seems to be a strong sense of self preservation." Jane adds, "Yes, but also a trust of friends. I think there is a promising future for our venture here."

Red turns to Jake and Ruby and says, "Now, when I saw you at the festival you were planning an expansion of the Lucky Lady. How is that coming along? I'm asking becuase I'm thinking that a regional poker tournament might soon be in order. I wouldn't want to host it here given the private-club nature of the establishment. But I wouldn't mind if some of the partners got to see how various Arizona high-rollers play before we considering inviting any of them here."

She replies, "It's done actually and it looks great, very classy a real Saloon. Plus we're going to open soon as the nicest hotel in Promise City to boot. A poker tournament would be so exciting! I'd love to have it at the Lucky Lady, that is, if I actually do decide to leave here," she laughs. "What did you have in mind?"

Red replies, "Basically it would be an invitation only event with an absurdly high entrance fee with half of the money as the main prize. Invite people from all of the major Arizona communities and maybe a dozen or so from other western states and territories. Cap it at, say, thirty players. That would be five tables of six players plus the five dealers. Have it start on a Friday night and run until the wee hours of the morning then pick up again the next day at some point early in the afternoon and run from then until it is over.

I assume that Mr. Cook and Mr. Kane of the Lucky Lady would both deal, I'd pass on letting Mr. Lucky if I were you. Promise City has a few other good dealers but your competitors may not be willing to let you use them. I'd also suggest using Cornelius Van Horne as a dealer, he's established a name for himself in the territory so would add credibility and a draw to the tournament. You may also want to use the two main dealers and partners here, Mr. Stevens and Mrs. Osborn, but that would be your choice.

As players drop out you would decide when to consolidate tables and rotate dealers. Some of the other partners here would also go along to keep a close eye on things. How does that sound?"

"Heh, sounds pretty good." Jake chuckles, "When is there a bad time for a poker game?" Red laughs and replies, "Lots of times, usually when you've lost a fortune, are being shot at, or both." "Now you are splitting hairs. If I stopped playing poker every time someone took a shot at me I would never get to play." Jake gives him a wink. "As far as I am concerned, I say we do it. We can plan the details later."

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter Twenty-five, "Condemnations", Saturday, May 27th, 1882:

Nanuet awakens before the sun as is his custom. He slips away from Minerva as to not disturb her and does some light work around the grove. He spends a moment in reflection as the sun's first rays light the dawn and sets off to fetch some breakfast for his companion. When he returns he offers some food to Maska and wakes Minerva gently.

"I brought you some breakfast. I am leaving to go find Chester and see what is up at those ranches. If you need me for anything, send Maska. I will return as quickly as possible."

Minerva tosses back the blanket. She stands and stretches enjoying the sun's rays as they caress and warm her cool bronze flesh. She smiles and wraps her arms around Nanuet to deliver a sound'Good Morning' kiss' upon his lips. "Breakfast! This is a pleasant surprise!" She slips into her clothes and seats herself back on the blanket and begins munching as she speaks.

"Rembember what I told you last night, Mi Amore. Do not turn your back to them. They may be good men, but their beliefs are misguided. I am going to find Senora Katherine this morning. Perhaps she will tell me what they had their heads together about last evening..and she must be warned of their views. Considering the comments that they made about you, I am certain that they do not approve of her school either." Nanuet then leaves to find Chester.

Morning crept softly into Kate's room, setting the sheers below her curtains aglow with sunlight. Most mornings she would patter downstairs in her dressing gown looking for something to eat, but there were guests in the house and it wouldn't do to run about undressed.

It was going to be another busy day, so she put one a simple skirt and blouse and pinned her hair up out of her way and went downstairs. She knew how to make a simple breakfast these days, so she got the stove going and began cooking eggs and bacon and toasting bread. Eventually the smells of breakfast reached the noses of the others in the house and they arrived one by one in the kitchen.

Kate apologized for the plainess of the meal and she served it, saying "I'm just learning, so I thought it best to stick with something simple. It's a busy day today. I've heard about three homes available in town. One is owned by a man known for cheating people, so I'd suggest we stay away from there. We can check out the others today. Luckily the first stop would be the El Parador. Someone who knows about one of the buildings should be there. Is there anything else you're going to need?"

They indicate that would be fine. Once the light breakfast is finished they head over to the El Parador. They find out that one of the availble houses on the eastern side of town has already been occupied by a family burnt out of Tombstone but that one adjacent to the Ramirez brothers is still available. It is owned by banker Frank Condon.

Kate led the family over to Condon's Bank. She hadn't been here since March when Wyatt Earp arrested Jake and Chester. All of her friends had moved their money over to the town's other bank and stayed away from the Condon's since. She also remembered what her teacher had said about the Condon's having been friends to them once upon a time.
They arrived at the bank shortly and went inside looking for Frank Condon.

On Saturday's the bank is open in the morning and banker Frank Condon is sitting in his usual manager's table. As they approach he smiles, shakes Nate's hand and says to the Caudell's , "Hello there, did you come here from Tombstone?" Nate replies, "No, North Carolina actually." Condon begins to tell them about his bank.

Kate listened politely as Mr. Condon told them all about his business. Once he seemed to have wrapped up his story, Kate took her chance and said. "We heard you have a house available? The Caudells are looking for a home here in Promise City." He replies, "Why yes, it's not that large but it is clean and the neighbors are nice people. The bank closes at noon today, I can show it to you then if you would like."

Kate nodded slightly to Mr. Caudell's glance and he said, "That should be just fine. We'll meet you back here at noon. Thanks." The men shook hands and the group left the bank.
"I should go check on my family. You're welcome to join us if you like, or I can just meet you back here at noon." Molly says, "No, we're fine. I think we'll just poke around this town some on our own."

Kate smiled. "I thought you might like to. Have a good morning and I'll see you later."
She hurried away with and sighed with relief. She had not wanted the family to feel she was trying to get rid of them, but she was anxious to have time to herself as well. Her steps took her quickly back to the El Parador in search of her family.

She found them altogether eating breakfast. Kate took a seat at the table with them and joined the conversation. After a while she asked, "Phil, how was your night at the Long Branch?" He smiles and says, "Great, I lost $ 400!"

"Phil! That is not great. What in the world were you doing betting that kind of money? I..." Kate had to stop for a minute and collect herself. "I didn't think you were actually going to gamble. Wasn't Conrad supposed to keep you out of trouble?" He states, "Relax Katie, it wasn't real money, it was table credit. Conrad gave me $ 200 in credit! It took me nearly three hours to lose it and with a poor-playing novice there his table filled up with folks eager to play. When I was finally broke Mrs. Higgins gave me $ 100 in credit to spend at the tables of her other two gamblers. It was great fun and the Long Branch cleaned up for the night!"

"Yes, there's nothing like a novice to bring more players to the table. Be careful though, Phil. Not everyone here is friendly, and some people like gambling just a little too much." She was quiet for a minute as she studied her brother. "I still need to talk to Sonoma and Flint about some things to do with the incorporation of the town. I'll probably go out to the ranch this afternoon to do that. If any of you are feeling up to it you could go out with me. Have you been back to see Mrs. Kelly again yet?"

He says, "No, I slept in this morning. Going out to the ranch sounds like fun. I know that Father and Maman are planning to go tomorrow, to pay their respects to Thomas on the holy day." Kate swallowed and nodded, not trusting herself to speak. Phil's face lost his playful look for a minute as his hand squeezed his sister's. "We miss him too, Kitty."

They were both quiet for a few mintues. Kate broke the silence, saying, "I'm glad you like it here. Just don't get too attached. Papa would be very upset if you decided to skip college and move out west." He replies, "Mr. Booth said as much too. He also pointed out that loosing isn't nearly as much fun when you've had to earn every penny of it. Don't worry Kit, I'll be heading back to Boston, but I'm going to enjoy myself while I'm here.

While they are speaking Mr. Pickering approaches Kate. "Hello Mrs. Kale, I was wondering if I could be so kind as to borrow your classroom for the afternoon. I could use a blackboard to outline for my students what they can plan to see in the night sky this evening." She says, "Of course, Professor. I can show you where the school is now. Phil, I'll be back a little while after noon, alright? Make sure you get down to the Dry Good's store and get some more clothes."

She stood up and joined Mr. Pickering. As they walked she said, "I hope your journey was easy and you got rooms alright. You were lucky to get out of Tombstone before the fire."
He replies, "Yes, some of my students were sorry that they missed it but those boys don't really know what they missed. Perhaps you can tell them about it later."

They walk the short distance over to East Street. As they approach the building they can see that a large whitewashed wooden sign with large black letters that has been nailed to the front door that reads:

CONDEMNED!
Condemnations to those who
would use this building to corrupt
the minds of innocent youth
with falsehoods!

"And so it begins," Kate said quietly while looking at the sign. She carefully controlled her voice and pushed her anger aside. "I'm sorry Mr. Pickering. You see, I plan to offer education to all children no matter their race and there are those who are offended by that.

I don't think anything can be done, but we'd best show the Marshall. Things like this can escalate, and I don't want to wake up one night when a torch is thrown through my window. Come inside a moment."

Kate opened the door and let Mr. Pickering in while she went into the kitchen. When she had recieved her boxes from Boston she'd had to get a crowbar for opening them. She grabbed it and went back into the schoolroom. "Mr. Pickering, would you do me the favor of getting that thing off my front door?"

"Absolutely," he states, quickly removing the sign. He looks over the school room and says, "This will do quite nicely. Some of the chairs are a bit small for my boys to use but there seem to be enough benches. You and your family are welcome to sit in on the lecture, I plan to give it from 2:00 to 4:00 P.M."

"Thank you, that's very kind. I had planned to go out to my ranch with my brother, but we can do that after your lecture. The seats were actually made to fit the students, although I had a few made larger and the benches put in to accomodate how fast children grow.
If you wouldn't mind, would you escort me to the Marshall's office? I'm sure I'd be perfectly safe but I would feel a bit better.

Pickering escorts her over to the Marshall's Office. Deputy Marshall Helen Barker is currently on duty. "Mrs. Barker, how are you?" Kate said as she came in. "I'm sorry we haven't spoken since the meeting. The fire in Tombstone set all my plans reeling. I just took Professor Pickering to see the schoolroom and we found this nailed to the door."

As Mr. Pickering put the sign on the desk she said, "Three guesses as to who put it there." She says, "Not all that hard to guess. I'd say Bill Watkins or Icabod Shackelton were responsible. The question is, what do you want me to do about it? Even if one of them confesses I'm afraid that it isn't all that much of a crime unless they also did some other damage, a small fine and a day or two in jail at the most.

Plus that may also be their plan, not too many people wander down East Street so few would have seen this. But if somebody is arrested and tried then the whole town will hear of it and also see this sign when it is presented as evidence at the trial. A trial would also give them a very public forum to explain to everybody their views."

Kate answers, "I don't really expect you to do anything about this, I just wanted to make sure you knew it had happened. Ashley King warned me last night that his mother, Doctor Eaton, and Ichabod Shackelton were conspiring. He didn't hear enough to be sure, but he thought some of it was aimed at the school.

I don't know any of them well, so it's hard to guage how far they might go. I can handle signs and slander. But they could directly or indirectly put Ginnie and myself in danger. I doubt they mean violence, but if they manage to work up the wrong person.... It just seemed smarter to make sure someone knew.

Will you be at the Lucky Lady tonight? We can conspire a bit and see how things are looking for the incorporation. Miss Townsend should be in tonight with Ruby gone, so I can speak with her as well." Helen replies, "Yes, but late. Stanley is playing at the Comique first. That is why I have the day shift today." Kate replies, "Wonderful. I'll see you tonight then. I think I'll just take this with me and use it for firewood."

Minerva finishes her meal and returns home to freshen up and give thanks to her gods. She returns to the church to be sure that all is ready for this week's service and satisfied, strolls into town with Luna in the hopes of finding Katherine at home.

Kate and the Professor left the Marshall's office. Even though she assured him she was fine to walk home, he insisted on carrying the sign for her. As they approached the house Katherine saw Miss Florencia waiting at the door. "Good morning, Miss Florenica," Kate said as they arrived. "This is Mr. Pickering. He and his students are here to see the eclipse later this week. Mr. Pickering, Miss Florencia the town's Greek and Roman Priestess."

Mnerva startles at the mention of an eclipse but instantly hides her discomfort. She curtsey's and holds out her hand in welcome. "Buenas Dias, Senor Pickering. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintace. An eclipse, you say? How fascinating! Of the sun or the moon? If a god wishes to send us a message of unease, it is important to know which one we should appease and ask for guidance." she says continueing to smile pleasantly.
She turns to Katherine "Senora Katherine, I can see that you are busy, but would lie to speak with you at your leasure. There is no hurry."

"A Solar elipse, Ma'am," Mr. Pickering answered. "I cannot say whether it's a message from the gods or not, although I could explain the science. I will leave interpretation in your capable hands. Mrs. Kale, I will see you here at 2:00. A good day to you ladies," the gentleman said before he tipped his hat and started down the street.

Kate turned to Miss Florencia and said, "Actually, my time is free until about noon. My family are getting new clothes made I believe, and Phil is very good at entertaining himself. We can talk in the parlor. You might even enjoy helping me get rid of this little gift from the Vigilance Committee," she said, indicating the sign. Minerva follows the line of Kate's finger. Her color rises and her eyes sprakle dangerously when she spies the sign. Her lips are set in a grim line. "So it has begun."

After Pickering leaves Minverva points to the sign and says to Kate. "I came to warn you of just such a thing." Last evening, before you came into the Lucky Lady, Senor's Oldfield and Shaw made some very nasty remarks about Nanuet. It is obvious that they are ruled by their predudices. When I saw the three of you with their heads together, I became concerned for you. Although it would be wise to know what they are plotting, I just wanted you to know thier views so that you could protect yourself."

Kate replies, "I have never met Mr. Oldfield before, so I can't say for him, but I know Mr. Shaw to be someone who tries to fight his prejudice. They are starting a Cattleman's Association and asked if our ranch would want to be part of it. A ranch partially owned by Nanuet and another elf. They are by no means perfect, but they are far above the vigilance committee. Ashely King warned me last night that something like this might happen. It's apprently the work of his mother, Doctor Eaton, and Ichabod Shackelton, the tutor."

Minerva states, "I hope that you will be able to help Senor Shaw see the error of is views, but Senor Oldfield may be a more difficult man to deal with. Will you join with them if they are not willing to accept Nanuet and Sonoma?"

Kate answers, "No. But I don't think that will be a problem. The way Mr. Shaw spoke, he is inviting ranches rather than specific ranchers. The only people he is excluding are people with ties to the Cowboy Gang. I have no problem with that. I'm more uncomfortable about the idea that he wants to try to work with the Vigilance Committee to temper them somewhat. I know if I'm too stubborn I could miss a chance to make a difference, but the idea of working with those people makes my skin crawl."

Minerva asks, "What will happen to your ranch if if you bind it to this association and then your ranch loses it's voice in the decision making process because it is run and owned by women and elves?? How will you safeguard against that possibility?"

Kate replies, "That's a major reason why I haven't already accepted. I need to speak to Sonoma and Nanuet. About whether we want to be part of the town as well as if we should join the Association. As much as I'd like to break all of this down into black and white terms it's not possible. I would like to talk to Mr. Shaw again about how his association will work. I don't want my name associated with anything to do the Vigilance Committee, even if it could make nonsense like this sign stop."

Minerva answers, "Not all of the Vigalence members are as extreme as Senora King and Dr. Eaton and there are others who are not part of that committee who are just as blind. You are a wise woman, Senora Katherine, I would not presume to make this decision for you, I just wanted to be sure that you were aware of the possibilities. If it would not be too much trouble for you, I would appreciate it if you could keep me apprised of their plans. I must know who remains to be enlightened if we are to bring Promise City into the light." She glances up at the sun. "Oh, and beware the solar eclipse, Senora. Do not look up to it. Apollo has been known to remove a mortal's sight if they gaze upon him overly long."

Kate states, "It wouldn't be too much trouble. Hopefully I can have some good effect from the inside. I had not really planned to look directly at the sun," Kate said lightly. "I believe Mr. Pickering has an alternate way of observing the eclipse. Diana is also a part of the eclipse, so I am very interested in it."

Minerva replies, "Good, I am glad that you will be showing the proper respect when gazing upon his splendor. Apollo can be rather temeramental and he has been know to extract harsh retribution on more arrogant mortals. I have known others brazen enough to challenge his brillance, only to lose their sight." she shakes her head and with a wry smile says "You cannot win a battle against a god."

There is a knock at the door and the women look up to see Western Union telegraph operator Dave Meleny standing there. He has a note in his hand and says, "Hello Mrs. Kale. I have a telegram from you. It was apparently sent a while ago but with the confusion in Tombstone took a while to get relayed on." "Thank you, Mr. Meleny. I was in Tombstone, I certainly understand." Kate took the note inside, carefully slit it open and read it. The note reads:

The Golden Eagle requests the company of Senor Gonzales immediately to discuss the future relations of his songbirds. Three Gods watch over the Golden Eagle while waiting for Senor’s company.

Mr. Winston departs. Kate read the note and said, "Ruby want Mr. Gonzales to come to her, but I don't think he's even here right now. I wonder what's going on... and I have no idea where to wire her back."

Minerva says, "I know that you are in a hurry so I will not delay you any longer. If you find that you are being harrassed, por favor, come to me and I will assist you in any way that I can." "I will. I'm not sure how to fight back against this and I'll need advice from everyone."

Kate walked Miss Florencia out and locked the door behind them. "I'm sure I'll see you tonight at the Lucky Lady. If you're interested, Mr. Pickering is giving his students a lecture here at 2:00. I'm sure he wouldn't mind if you sat in as well."

The ladies separated and Kate made a quick check at the El Parador, confirming her suspicion that her teacher was not there. She slipped into the kitchen and asked Dorita, "Do you have any idea when your grandfather will be back? Ruby sent a rather cryptic telegram for him and I get the feeling it's important." Dorita says, "I not know, he say Saturday or Sunday. Don't expect before tomorrow. I tell him you ask."

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter Twenty-six, “The Chicken Thieves”, Saturday May 27th, 1882:

Nanuet finds Chester and says, "Ready to get a start on the day? I appreciate you coming with me to handle this. The sooner we get to it the better I think." Chester says, "Yep. I want to get to the bottom of this too. If someone is stirring up trouble to start a war between us and the Apache, then I'm going to put a stop to it. It won't be good for either side." He shakes his head. "Didn't we go through this a couple months ago? We can't have these things flaring up. One of these days, there'll be shooting. Let's ride out."

Nanuet and Chester ride out to Calvin Oldfield's ranch. Chester calls out to the nearest ranch hand he sees, "Hey. Where's Will Flynn? Tell him Deputy Marshall Martin's looking for him." Flynn is one of five hands working the cattle ranch with Oldfield. He rides up and shakes Chester's hand saying "Pleasure to meet you Deputy. I heard that it was your posse that took down Johnny Ringo. Nice to meet a man who isn't afraid to take on rustlers."

He takes them out to the chicken coop and they check for tracks, but between the ranchers and chickens any that might have been on the ground are now obscured. Flynn isn't even sure exactly where the calf was when it was taken, just that it was gone.

Flynn mounts up and rides with them a mile north over to the Green Valley Farm where he introduces the deputy to the owner Eli Greene. The farm is comprised of six acres of hay and two acres of wheat, all of which are sold to the various ranches of the valley. He also raises chickens, ducks and pigs.

Greene brings out his ranch hand Amer Renner, shows some skepticism to Nanuet. Renner points to Nanuet's saddle blanket and tells the deputy "The Indian I saw wore clothing with a similar pattern and design. You sure this redskin isn't part of this whole thing?" Chester's eyes narrow. "You're damn right I'm sure. You going to show us the trail or not?" He stares at the man until he looks away.

Renner shows them where the pig was taken from. Some type of wooden sled was indeed used to take animal away. Nanuet says nothing to the man when he makes the comments about him possibly being part of the whole thing. "Let's see where these tracks go shall we?" Nanuet says to Chester. The two begin following the marks that the sled left in the ground.

Flynn and Renner insist on both going with them. The sled track go for a few miles, ending near a stream where there is evidence that the pig was butchered on that spot. There are no more tracks indicating that they traveled through the stream from that point. Riding upstream towards the Dos Cabezas Mountains they go for nearly three miles before they see slight indications of a pair of horses having exited the stream.

Nanuet and Chester follow the barely discernable trail eastward for a few miles. They see it approaching a mountain a few miles north of Promise City. As they get closer both Nanuet and Chester realize that the trail is leading directly to the cave where they had been told of the Earth Spirits back in January.

Nanuet mentions to the men that they had been to that cave before when hunting. He explains to the men that he is going to get closer and take a look at the activity at the cave. He would like to go alone so that he can scout. Nanuet decides to hide and move silently towards the cave. Once close enough he will try and listen as well as check the area for tracks.

Chester keeps watch on the surrounding area. Memories of the Chimera flood back. Hopefully those spirits are far away from here. He grips the handle of his Remington tightly. Nanuet approaches the cave where the group had met to speak to Kajika and Storm Golden Eye about the Earth Spirits. He can make out the outline of two humanoids just inside the cave mouth, using the shadows for concealment. He cannot make out their specific race but can see that one is holding a rifle and the other a bow.

Nanuet scans the area for a small stone. He picks up the stone and throws it, aiming for an area in front of, but on the opposite side of the cave mouth, hoping to make enough noise to draw the two out so that he can get a better look.

The ploy works and the two step forward and look around. Nanuet recognizes them as Nesenkeag and Naumkeag, two brothers from his Yavapaia tribe who were bullies and had made his life a living hell when he was younger. Nanuet and Minerva had briefly run into the two and some of their Western Apache companions ten days earlier in Prescott Arizona.

Renner is watching the cave entrance. He nudges Chester. "See? Just like I told you--Indians. Keep a watch on your Indian, Deputy. I still think he's in cahoots with them." Chester doesn't say anything at first. "Let this play out, Renner. Dead men can't pay you back." Renner nods but Flynn raises up his rife and says, "Them Indians is armed. We have to protect ourselves."

Nanuet makes his way back to the others. He sees Flynn has raised his gun and puts himself directly in it's path as he approaches them, a steely look in his eyes. Chester looks at Flynn. "Put that weapon down now."

Once he is with the others and out of earshot of the Yavapi in the cave Nanuet speaks, "Yes, they are elves. Yes, they are bad seeds and most likely have stolen from you. However, they are not Apache and have not broken the treaty. They are renegades and have no true allegiance to any tribe. I had met the two that you saw come out of the cave recently in Tombstone whilst I was traveling. I do not want to see bloodshed this day, I have seen enough to last me several lifetimes. We should be able to take them without killing them and see that they are punished properly from their crimes. What is your opinion of this?"

Chester nods. "Good to hear the truce holds. Are they going to surrender to us? If so, tell them to throw their weapons on the ground. I have a couple pairs of manacles in my saddle bag." Nanuet says, "Chester I doubt that they will just surrender to us. These two are a pair of roughnecks and bullies. They are not the swiftest pair either. Wasn't able to tell how many sets of tracks there were, so I am not sure if they are alone or not. If you think stealth is the way to go then it is you and I, otherwise we all go together."

"We should sneak up to get the drop on them. Will, Amer, stay here. If there are more of them, we'll need you outside of any ambush. OK?" Chester gets off Lookout. To Nanuet, he says, "Let's go." He draws a pistol in his right hand as they sneak forward.

Nanuet and Chester slowly and carefully make their way around the bushes and rocks to the entranceway. The two Indians have moved back inside but are not that far away. Based upon the smells coming from the cave the men each realize that there is at least one horse inside as well. They here distant voices coming from further back behind the two in the entranceway which Nanuet makes out to be the Western Apache language although they are too far away for him to make out specific words. He then hears a more high-pitched voice that he concludes is from his young cousin Nakomo.

Chester whispers into Nanuet's ear. "There are more of them in there. Can you tell what they're saying? Since there's only one way in or out, we can bring Will and Amer forward." "I can't really hear to well from here, but..." Nanuet falters. "Chester, these two are from my former tribe, and my cousin is in there. I can hear his voice." Nanuet hangs his head in shame. "I am ashamed my people would stoop so low, especially my own blood. Let's call the other two forward and be done with this."

Nanuet motions for the other men to come up. Flynn and Renner both move forward, rather hastily, which catches the attention of the two brothers guarding the cave mouth. Naumkeag moves forward and knocks an arrow on his bow to fire at the men while Nesenkeag moves further into the cave and calls out softly a phrase in Western Apache which Nanuet recognizes as "White hunters attack".

Chester draws his other pistol and shouts, "Give up. We have you outgunned and there's no other way out of that cave. Don't make us come in after you." He cocks both guns. Flynn and Renner hold their rifles at the ready. Flynn says, "Just say the word, Deputy and we'll bring them down."

Nanuet hollers out in Western Apache "Naumkeag, Nesenkeag surrender now and we will spare your lives. You are trapped in the cave, drop your arms and come out." He then turns to the men and in English says "I just called the two I saw earlier by name, told them to surrender and that we have them trapped."

Naumkeag turns and fires his arrow at Chester. It flies perfectly striking him right in the heart, or rather, hitting the magical coat right above Chester's heart. Rather then penetrating the arrow deflects harmlessly to the side. Both Renner and Flynn fire. Neither shot hits and Naumkeag hurries back into the safety of the cave.

Nanuet ponders his next move. It pains him deeply to be fighting against others from his own tribe, but all the evidence points to them being thieves, and they did attack first. Nanuet pulls out his hunting knives and moves in quickly, chasing after Naumkeag. Chester drops to his seat in shock. "That would have killed me. Sorry Nanuet, but we have to go in." Chester gets up and charges into the cave, aiming at whatever target presents himself.

Nanuet is able to reach Naumkeag and tackles him before he gets very far into the cave. Chester barrels into the cave after them. He takes a shot at Nesenkeag which misses. Nesenkeag stops and points the rifle barrel, not at Chester but instead down towards Nanuet's head. The Indian says to Chester, "Drop your gun or I'll kill him."

Nanuet looks right at the rifle and says "Nesenkeag, nobody has to die today. There are more men coming, they will surely kill you if you continue to fight. You are thieves and must be punished. Your behavior disgusts me and you are not fit to be called Yavapi." Nanuet then spits on the ground at his feet. Chester looks from Nesenkeag to Nanuet. He keeps aiming at Nesenkeag. "Even if you shoot him, you'll be dead too. Do you really want that? If you give up, we can see what the Judge will say. No one's been hurt yet."

Nesenkeag stands dumbfounded, uncertain of what to do next. His brother however does act, rolling to the side to shake Nanuet free of him and yelling up something in a language that Chester does not know but Nanuet recognizes as the command "Kill them".

Nanuet rolls to the side to try and avoid any oncoming shots from the rifle. Once able, he gets to his feet and looks for Naumkeag. He throws one of his knives at him, aiming for the leg. Chester hits the dirt and fires with both guns at Naumkeag. "Flynn, Renner, get in here. Nanuet, tell them to surrender." Nanuet states, "I tried Chet, they isn’t listening to reason!"

Naumkeag regains his footing only to have Nanuet's knife go through the leg and one of Chester's bullets through his side, causing him to collapse. Nesenkeag aims the rifle at Chester and fires, the point blank shot hitting the lower ribs but again deflecting off of the jacket causing nothing more than a minor bruise. At that point both armed humans come changing into the cave mouth while simultaneously four more armed Indians, one atop a horse, come up from the lower rear of the cave complex.

Nanuet charges Nesenkeag, holding on to his remaining knife. When he gets close enough he tries to disarm him by stabbing the arm that is holding the stock of the rifle. Nesenkeag dodges the knife and uses his rifle like a club to push Nanuet back. The other four Indians charge closer, with both Kokokehas and Pakesso taking aim and firing their guns at Renner and Flynn. Flynn gets hit in the upper chest and falls. The one named Kemo is atop the horse which he gives a kick and charges forward, leaping over Naumkeag and Nanuet and heading directly towards Chester.

Chester tries to dodge to the side, while firing at Kemo's horse. "Damn it why won't you listen?" Nanuet gathers his feet underneath him and throws his remaining knife at Nesenkeag. He then moves back towards Flynn as quickly as possible.

Chester's shot hits the horse but the animal keeps moving. Kemo exits the cave and begins to gallop away. Nanuet's knife strikes the side of Nesenkeag's neck, causing a gush of blood. Kokokehas drops his rifle and rushes to Nesenkeag's side, applying direct pressure onto the wound to stop the flow of blood. The Indian who Nanuet does not know the name of turns and runs back into the cave.

Pakesso, the leader of the group, is left the only one standing holding a weapon, with Renner taking aim at him. As has been true of bullies from time immortal, when faced with any real opposition and without a gang to back him up, he chooses to quit. He drops his weapon and raises up his arms.

Nanuet continues to move towards Flynn. As soon as he arrives he checks the severity of the wound. Flynn's wound is clean, the bullet having gone straight through and didn't strike any vital organs or major blood vessels. Flynn seems to be ignoring the pain, being more concerned about the other Indians in the room than his injury. Nanuet tells him to sit still for a moment and then spontaneously casts a cure moderate wounds spell,.

He then checks the situation to see how things are going. Chester brushes himself off. He asks Nanuet, "Is he going to be OK?" Nanuet replies, "I can heal his wound." Chester says to Renner, "I'm going to get the manacles. Keep an eye on that one." He points to Pakesso. Chester returns with the manacles and shackles the Indian. "You had your chance. Now you're likely to get the gallows now."

Flynn thanks Nanuet for the healing and stands up to help with the Indians. Kokokehas is still holding his hands over Nesenkeag's neck wound to slow the flow of blood. He turns his head towards Nanuet and sharply says to Nanuet in the Western Apache language "You heal white men but will let your own kind bleed to death?"

Naumkeag remains on the ground, Nanuet’s knife still sticking out of his leg. He is holding his side where Chester shot him. Renner points further into the cave and says, "The other one ran off that way. Is there a different exit?" Chester and Nanuet do not remember one. Nanuet responds, "I don't remember there being a different exit, as I said, we were here before."

He then turns to Kokokehas as he walks towards him and Nesenkeag and speaks in English, "I will heal whom I choose in the order that I choose. I already told you that you are thieves and a disgrace to my people. In my eyes and in my heart you are no longer Yavapi. I don't think the wound is that serious, it just hit a bad spot." Naumkeag blurts out in the Western Apache language "We are no longer Yavapi, the weak-willed Elders have cast us out. They are the ones who have disgraced the tribe's name."

Nanuet kneels down next to the dying elf and casts cure moderate on the wound that is spilling his lifeblood. Chester watches as Nanuet heal the wounded elf. "Flynn, you just got hurt so stay here with Nanuet. Renner come with me, please. I want to capture this one, but just in case there are more of them..." Chester reloads his Remington. "We should be able to see with the sun out. Don't forget he has the advantage because Indian eyesight is better than ours. Ready?"

Renner checks his rifle. "Lead the way, Deputy." Chester's memory of the cave is that it continues on for another eighty or so feet, curving down and to the right and ending in an irregularly shaped chamber approximately fifteen by twenty feet in size.

They carefully make their way around the curves, smelling smoke ahead. They also hear chickens clucking. As they reach the bend just before the chamber Chester moves quickly, fanning the room with his gun.

The only Indian in the room is an unarmed mixed breed boy. Also in the room are one horse, a calf, and a makeshift cage built of branches with a dozen chickens inside. A fire pit next to a two-by-three foot coal bed is on the far wall. The fire is out but the glow of the coal bed illuminates the room. A metal grill stands above the coal bed, covered with a makeshift cover made from a metal trash bucket. On the grill are close to 100 pounds of butchered ham steaks that are in the process of being smoked. Based upon the bubbling water on the crackling logs, the steam rising off of it, and the pair of empty canvas buckets beside it Chester deduces that the fire has just been extinguished in the last couple of minutes. A small iron pot beside the fire is filled with water and eggs. Renner enters the room behind Chester and raises his rifle towards the Indian boy.

Chester lowers his guns and looks at the boy. "You there. Where'd the other Indian go? We don't want to hurt him, but he needs to come with us." The boy gestures up to the stone chimney in the cave roof above where the fire was that the steam is rising up through.

Chester exclaims, "Damn. There's no way I'm going up there to get him. Maybe we can tell where the smoke is coming out of the mountain. Kid, you're coming with us. What's your name? I'm Chester and this is Amer." He says that his name is Nakomo. Chester states, "Nice to meet you, Nakomo. Where are your parents? They're going to have to come get you in Promise City."

The boy replies, "My mother is dead and my father is in Prison. My only know relative is an Indian named Nanuet, but I have no idea where to find him." Chester perks up upon hearing Nanuet's name. "It's your lucky day. Nanuet just happens to be in the outer cave. He's healing the wounded. Let's go see him."

They lead the child back to where Nanuet is and Chester says, "The other guy escaped out a smoke hole. This kid was back there too. I'm going outside to see where the smoke is coming out. How're you doing here?" Nanuet replies, "I think he'll live. I'll tell you the story later once we gather the rest of them up. Do you have anything to bind these two with?"

Nanuet then speaks to Naumkeag in Western Apache saying "Our tribe is based on us following the wisdom of the elders. Your disrespect for them has put you in this position; stealing, hiding out in caves. Simple ruffians and bandits, thieves. Despicable."

"Let me check if I have more manacles." He returns to Lookout and grabs the shackles. Getting back to the cave, he puts them on the prisoners. "There we go." He asks Naumkeag, "Where did your friend go? He's going to end up dead if he runs. The Army will stick its nose in this and you know they aren't subtle. Just tell me where he'd go. I'm not going to hurt him." "The army won't catch either him or Kemo," Naumkeag states. Chester says to him, "They might not, but they'll hassle your people until they do. So if you want your people to suffer, they don't say a thing. It's all the same to me."

Renner suggests "One of us should ride into town and get Deputy Sheriff Hunter. You're outside of your jurisdiction here Marshall, but he can arrest these guys, and we'll need a wagon to transport them to jail. We should also get the town butcher Rudy Baines to get that meat and finish curing it. No point having it go to waste."

Nanuet states, "I would suggest Chester be the one who goes, that way the story can be related lawman to lawman." Nanuet double checks the manacles and makes sure the prisoners are secure.

Chester says, "Nanuet's right. Hunter's more likely to listen to me, than any of you. I'll be back soon." Chester mounts Lookout and rides off to the Sheriff's Office. Nanuet turns to Flynn and Renner and says "So I hope I proved myself to you today. I hope you can see that men should not be judged by the color of their skin alone." Flynn comments "You're okay in my book Nanuet. Thank you for the healing." Renner nods yes as well but refrains from further comment.

Nanuet replies, "You are welcome. I hope that with the upcoming changes in Promise City that people can keep a more open mind. I thank you for the opportunity to help you get to the bottom of this situation. I feared the worst, and although it is not a good ending, it is better than I had hoped."

Nakoma approaches Nanuet and says softly in the Yavapai language "And what will become of me cousin? Will I be jailed with the others? I too am guilty of theft, I stole most of the chickens." Nanuet replies, "Yes, you will be arrested with the others. You made the choice to be a thief and now must pay for your decision. Be brave and accept the consequences."

The boy nods. He then tells Nanuet "We only killed two of the chickens, the others are all still down at the end of cave. So is the calf. We also have one more pony, it wasn't stolen, it belongs to Kokokehas."

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter Twenty-seven, “A present for Ruby”, Friday, May 26th, 1882, 6:00 P.M.

Jake comments, “I am looking forward to tonight." The meal at the Three Gods Meeting House wraps up and they head downstairs. Ruby is introduced to both Isaac Stevens and his sister Marybeth Osborn as they prepare for a night of gambling.

The doors open at 6:30 P.M. and several patrons begin to arrive. Red brings Jake upstairs to the second floor balcony and he gives them a brief description of each patron as they enter. He points out what each knows of Mr. Alistair. He then tells Jake, "A while later I'll have you do a short spell as Mr. Alistair. It's about time that he's seen in the same place as Mr. Patrick, can't be letting too many people figure it out. Tomorrow I'll also ask you to play Alistair for part of the night simultaneous to Mr. Van Horne being out on the main floor." Jake nods in agreement. "I just need to be me when that pretty red head picks her guy for the night. Otherwise, I am happy to assist."

"So Jane," Ruby asks when they are alone again, "What were you thinking about the ceremony tomorrow, I mean, what would you like me to do? I can't do what you do." Jane replies, "Just dance with the acolytes. The dresses I've picked out for them and you to wear tomorrow are also not overly revealing, I'll save that for the high holy days. When the show ends just head upstairs with Jake, you're not a Priestess of Aphrodite yet so I don't expect you to mirror us."

"I don't think I'll ever be that," Ruby says blushing, "I mean a priestess. I would not be good enough and besides, there is Jake." Ruby is quiet for a moment. "I don't mind whatever dress you choose. Jake might mind but my theory is, if you have if, why hide it? He thought I might be dancing what I danced at the festival and you know how that ended," she laughs lightly. "So, do you actually bring these strange people back to your own room?"

Jane replies, "Yes, I bring whomever the Goddess directs me to share my love with. They aren't necessarily all strange people though, this is a member's only club. In the four weeks that we've been open I've brought back two men I knew very well, one I was just acquainted with and one that was a stranger."

"What happens if the goddess directs you to bring up someone you don't want to bring?" Ruby asks curiously. Jane replies, "That has never happened, I will always do as my Goddess wishes, although there have been times in the past when a person who I was drawn to by the Goddess has refused to join me in Aphrodite's love."

Ruby asks, "Well, what would you do if it did happen? I mean, what if she directed you to bring up Jake?" Jane smiles and replies, "I am confident that she won't, and quite frankly he isn't the one I'm worried about. There is a very good reason why I want you dancing behind me and therefore outside of my field of vision during the final dance."

Ruby furrows her brows. "Well, I was really just using him as an example...but what do you mean, what's the good reason? Is there someone in the crowd you were hoping I would take their attention?" Jane says, "Ruby darling, I don't want Aphrodite to draw me to you again. Men aren't the only ones who find you desirable."

Ruby is taken aback and stutters slightly as she speaks. "Well, of course I know that... I mean, I have experience... in the past... I mean..." She shakes her long red hair around her, "What do you mean... again?" Jane replies, "Your dance at the Festival was divinely inspired. It drew me towards you while simultaneously turning your lover from you. If the violence of Ares hadn't intervened there is little doubt in my mind how that scenario would have ended."

Ruby looks deep into Jane's eyes and feels a slight shiver come over her before she looks away. She swallows hard and has the sudden and powerful desire for a drink. She stands uncomfortably for a few moments, unsure of what Jane was really trying to say.

Finally she gathers herself, stands taller and smiles, "Well, that might have been a fun evening but we'll never know now. At any rate tonight and tomorrow should be very fun and I'm looking forward to it. I’ll ask no more silly questions, but I will go and have another drink. I know you have to finish your preparations for tonight."

Ruby excuses herself and heads to Mr. Grappini. It had been a while since Ruby felt she had to get drunk and she fought the feeling. She orders a champagne, starts on it, and looks around for Jake.
She knew she would have to shake off the feeling if she was going to perform tonight. But the question that ran over and over in her mind was: Was she right?

After he finishes speaking with Red on the balcony, Jake goes back to his room to change his clothing. It only takes a few minutes to cleanup and attire himself in his familiar white silk shirt and black linen trousers. On his return towards the large gambling room, he encounters the priestess of Aphrodite. "Could we speak for a few moments? Privately?" She nods her assent and Jake follows her to what he assumes is her private room.

Once they are alone Jake begins, "Jane, priestess, I need you to do something for me. Actually it is for Ruby." "For Ruby?" Jane says with a bright voice. "Tell me what you would ask of me."
"Ruby has scars on her shoulder and chest, I want you to heal them," Jake says matter of fact.

"What you ask is not that easy. I do not have the power to do such a thing. It is not as simple as you make it sound." Jane sounds apologetic. He asks, "You can heal can you not?" She replies,
"Yes, I have some goddess given power to heal." "Then I do not understand why you cannot heal Ruby's scars. You are a priestess of the goddess of love and beauty. Who better to remove the scars and bring her back to her natural beauty." Jake is insistent.

"No, Jake, I do not have the power to do this. I cannot simply banish the scars from her." Then she looks at him suspiciously. "Why did Ruby send you, why not come herself and ask this of me?" He states, "Ruby did not send me. I have come on my own and did not tell her my intentions." Glancing down, Jake steeples his hands and taps them against his lips. "It is her birthday soon and I wanted something very special, more special than trinkets." He looks up and meets the priestesses gaze and holds it. "Does it take money, is that why you are hesitant? I have money."

"No, that is not the problem. I have told you I do not have the power or skill to do this. The goddess has not granted me this gift. I cannot simply banish her scars." Jane is starting to get agitated. "You know I would help Ruby if I could..."

"No, I do not know that you would. Prove it to me and yourself. Pray to your goddess and ask for the power or the way." He lowers his voice but the tone is demanding. "Both of her scars came from fighting the enemies of the goddess. One of the bullets could have been meant for you but she was the one brave enough to stand up and show her faith. You may very well be alive today because of her. Who better to receive such a gift, she is clearly favored of the goddess. It seems a small thing to ask for one who risked her life so willingly in the name of the goddess. It seems wrong to me that a scar should EVER mar her beauty."

She states, "Jake, no you do not understand…." He interrupts her sharply, "No, Jane, you do not understand. I want this for her very badly." He sighs and eases his tone. "Yes, it is a vain thing but it pains me so when I watch her. They are little enough, I hardly even notice them, but she is terribly distressed over them. She tries to hide them from me, from everyone. She also tries to hide how much they grieve her, but I have watched her. It breaks my heart.

Please, Tell me what I must do to make it so. If you cannot banish them then put them someplace else." Jane looks at him questioningly and he responds, "I am just attempting to be creative. If you cannot banish them move them... or something. Give them to me instead of her or figure out something else." Jake steps very close to her. "Now, tell me you will pray. Tell me you will put aside your doubts and ask your goddess for a way. Tell me that you will take my request seriously."

Jane sighs, "Jake, I...." but she looks into his eyes. He is hiding nothing now, those brown eyes are pleading and yet insistent and something else. Desperate perhaps? She has seen desperate lust before but this is different. Desperately in love? The priestess of Aphrodite sighs again. "I will pray Jake Cook. I will take your request seriously. I will do what I can but do not raise your hopes. The goddess has her reasons..."

At the mention of the goddess a bitter look travels across his face and then departs. "Thank you, priestess. Thank you, Jane." He says to her, and she believes he is sincere. He moves quickly to the door and as he is closing it, he catches her eyes one more time and mouths the words 'thank you'.

He stands outside her door silently for a minute, composing himself. He smoothes nonexistent wrinkles from his shirt and trousers. He makes a short shake, almost a shiver, and then walks quickly away.

The long walk back to the bar does him good, letting his mind wander. When Ruby sees him walking across the large room towards her he is his old self. Confident, a slight spring in his step, his eyes on her and yet darting about the room taking in every detail of every person. Looking formal in his white and black, and yet not too formal without a tie or jacket. There was something about how he wore his 'poker outfit'; he always had them tailor made and they lay upon him with a comfort and a style like he was born to wear them.

He stopped in front of her with a little smile on his face that was not quite a smirk and a twinkle in his eye. "Hi beautiful, buy me a drink? I am feeling lucky tonight." Then he quickly adds, "Heh, standing next to you I feel lucky all the time."

Ruby immediately returns his smile with a warm one of her own. She faces the bar, "Mr. Grappini, how do you say 'the love of my life' in Italian?" He responds with a chuckle, "L'amore della mia vita." "Well then," she says, turning back to Jake. "I'd like the finest whiskey you have for l'amore della mia vita."

"Right away Miss West, we can't be neglecting someone so important," he says and walks down the far end of the bar. She says, "Now, just how lucky are you feeling? You don't even have your lucky hat on, so it must be pretty lucky. As for me," she cocks her head to the side, "I don't feel lucky, I AM lucky when I'm around you."

He says, "All the better then, we can toast to our good luck." While waiting for Grappini to come back with his whiskey Jake says, "Will you be angry with me if I trade five percent from my share in the saloon for the five percent here? We could not have a better partner than he, and it would not be a bad thing to have him turn his attention our way a bit." Jake glances down and drags his boot across the floor before looking up and accepting the glass from Grappini. "I just feel odd simply taking the share here."

She replies, "Why would I be mad? It's your shares after all, I don't get to tell you what to do with your business." She holds up her champagne glass and twists and turns it in her hand. "Besides, I am completely and utterly jealous of you being a partner here and all the benefits that come with it and would do the same if I was in your place."

"Heh, I am not even sure what all the benefits are." Jake shrugs. "I am just excited to be part of his business venture. It means a lot to me." Jake looks around the place. "After you dazzle them with your performance tonight they will be scheduling you to come back periodically anyway. So we would need a place to stay." Jake grins, "See it all works out."

"Well, one of them is that nice dining room upstairs." Ruby is obviously jealous but she pushes the feelings away. Ruby shakes her head. "Enough of that. Let's toast to being lucky and successful." They clink their glasses and toast each other, ending with a kiss. "And I am very happy for you baby, I really am. This place is great."

"So, are we staying up late tonight carousing? Drinking, dancing, gambling and all the fun stuff that comes with it? You look so handsome I want to show you off so everyone knows you are mine." She lightly fingers the buttons on his shirt. Jake's smile just grows broader. "The night is young."

"Alright darling, good." Ruby finishes off her champagne and places the glass on the bar. "We're going to have to get some of this." She slides off her chair. "I'm going to get ready for the night. I want to play some cards too, I guess after I sing with Jane. Good luck until then." She kisses Jake again then hurries back to Jake's room.

She had hung her gowns so the wrinkles of traveling would fall out. She chooses her fairly new and revealing red and black gown http://fan.inkstigmata.net/satine/89.jpg and takes time to style her hair elaborately. She doesn't change her regular jewelry but ends her outfit with a thin black velvet ribbon tied delicately around her neck. When she is satisfied she looks ravishing she heads off to find Jane for the night's performance.

Jane and her Acolytes meet Ruby back stage to begin the evening's performances. Ruby is surprised to see an eight-piece orchestra arrive and take up positions on the far end of the stage, as their rehearsals were only with a single pianist. Ruby exclaims, "Wow Jane, I am impressed. You know, I don't think I've ever performed with as many people as you say are going to be here. It's so classy here too, I wasn't expecting all this." She smoothes her gown and hair and smiles. "I'm ready when you are."

The evening performance begins. They perform non-stop for the next hour after which point Jane declares a break. The band members all get up to stretch and then head over to the long bar. Jane's acolytes fan out throughout the room, mingling with the customers. There appear to be around 125 people present, with all four poker tables, both faro tables and both blackjack tables mostly full. Jake is now standing with Mr. Michael Patrick, the two of them having moved to a front table during the dancing.

"Looks to be going well. Almost time for Jake to head off and take care of a security concern. Perhaps our friend Mr. Alistair will pay a visit to the floor tonight?" Ruby sees Jake and Red together so she swaggers over to them, swinging her hips. She pulls her hair off her face and asks with a smile indicating she already knows the answer, "So, how did we do?" "Marvelous, simply marvelous," Red exclaims.

"Why thank you, Mr. Patrick, we do aim to please," Ruby giggles. "So... I want to play some cards and dance tonight. Can you suggest a table for me to start at?" Red replies, "Start with Marybeth Osborne, she'll welcome having a woman at her table." Jake states, "Last time I was here she showed herself to be a fine dealer." "What are you going to do?" Ruby asks Jake. "I wanted to talk to you about something, if you weren't busy. It isn't that important."

"I need to address a security concern sometime soon." Jake looks around to make certain no one is nearby. "We can talk before if you like or afterwards. Just do not recognize me if I look different between times." He turns back to Mr. Patrick "Before I forget, you were correct about Richard, he suspects or perhaps is sure and is just discrete." Red says, "Actually that's good, I can train him how to use the Alistair chain as well. As you've noticed, I trust him more than anybody other than you Jacob me boy. We have a loyal partner in him."

"I was trying not mention the chain out here on the floor. I figured I would fill Ruby in later. If you trust him that is good enough for me." He makes eye contact with Ruby and adds, "You know about the chain. I will just wear it for a bit tonight, I will explain later."

Ruby's brows come together. "I don't really understand Jake. I'll just go play cards. Please don't abandon me tonight though." She looks slightly worried. "No, do not be worried." Jake leans in close and whispers in her ear, "I am just trying to help Red. I will be wearing a disguise for a short while. I will be back to myself after not too long."

Ruby waits until Red is done whispering to Jake before speaking. "Alright then darling, wish me luck. Perhaps I'll notice a new admirer if Jane wants me to sing with her again tonight." She offers Jake her cheek and after he kisses her she saunters over to Mary's table. "Miss Osbourne? I'm Ruby West," she says and offers her hand. "I'm here to play some cards, Mr. Patrick sent me to you."

She smiles and says, "Ah yes, you're the companion of my partner Mr. Jacob....who I am now told is actually Mr. Cook. Welcome to the Three Gods Meeting House. I'll be pulling together a table in a few minutes. Do you have any playing preferences?" "Yes, I am Mr. Cook's girlfriend. I don't really have a preference, I have experience in a little bit of everything and I'm planning on having some fun tonight. I'm flexible," she smiles.

Ruby orders her current drink of choice, champagne, and waits patiently for the game to begin. Jane walks past her at one point and she calls out, "Janie, I will be here playing with Miss Osbourne. If you want me for the next set come and get me, I'll be glad to." The four men who join Ruby at Mrs. Osbourne's poker table include City Councilor Charles Hummel, blacksmith John LaMont, store owner Charlie Seebeck and a cowboy named Ralph 'Texas' Wiley.

"Hello gentlemen. Ruby West," she says and offers each her hand and a smile. "I hope you'll go easy on me tonight, I am on vacation," she laughs. They play for the next ninety minutes. The average pot ranges from a low of $ 5 to a high of $ 25. Ruby finds that all except Wiley are good players and he is soon out his $ 100 and gone. By the end of the game Ruby is $ 75 ahead. By her reckoning Osborne is up around $ 35, Seekbeck and Hummel are close to even and LaMont is down $ 10. Ruby is quite excited about her winnings but tries hard not to look for Jake to tell him about it. She knows she might recognize him and give him away, whatever he was up to. Instead she excuses herself and squeezes through the crowd to find Jane.

She finds another drink, and then when she does find Jane she asks, "Would you like to do another set?" Jane agrees and the they head backstage. She lets her Acolytes continue to entertain guests on the floor, deciding that this will just be a duet. Ruby smoothes her hair and gown and finishes her champagne. She spins towards Jane, "How do I look darling?" she laughs.

Jake asks Red to tell him how Mr. Alistair behaves and where he should put on the chain. Red gives Jake some instructions. They spend the next hour together out on the main gambling floor greeting people and wandering around. Near the end of the hour Ruby and Jane begin singing and dancing up on stage. Red says, "Let's head back out and try to find Mr. Cook." Mr. Alistair nods agreement and follows. Jake Cook returns to the main room dressed as before. Mr. Alistair seems to have retired for the night

The Meeting House was packed and was close to the amount of people Ruby had performed for during the festival, which was the largest crowd she had ever commanded. It filled her with confidence and happiness to know she could make so many people happy with something that came so easily for her. Jane and Ruby seemed to have a connection, the complimented each other perfectly with their singing and dancing, and even their looks were different enough to satisfy a crowd. Ruby guessed it all had to do with the goddess bringing them together, but she wasn't sure. She hadn't really known Jane all that long but it was like they had always been friends.

The performance, while not a ceremony, and the drink she partook in earlier, made Ruby giddy and lightheaded. Towards the end she starts searching the crowd for Jake, longing to be with him, hoping whatever he was doing was done. After the performance Ruby and Jane head into the enthusiastic crowd. They greet some of the patrons and it takes a while before Ruby finally gets back to the bar.

"Mr. Grappini," she says bubbly, "I feel SO great right now! I'm having a wonderful time here. I'd like another drink please." She taps her lips, "You know what? I love surprises, why don't you surprise me with something different." Mr. Grappini laughs at Ruby and returns with some pink looking beverage. Ruby has no idea what it is, but she drinks it down anyway. She orders another champagne for her next. Feeling happy she turns from the bar. Speaking to no one in particular she exclaims, "I don't care what that boy is doing, where is he?" as she searches the large crowd for her man.

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter Twenty-eight, “Partners”, Friday, May 26th, 1882, 9:00 P.M.

"Another wonderful performance," Jake says as he comes upon Ruby at the bar. "Mr. Alistair could not stop talking about it." "Jake!" Ruby squeals and jumps into his arms. "Glad you and he liked it. Now," she says and taps her hand on the bar for Mr. Grappini to bring Jake a drink, "I want some romance and attention, I hope you're planning on giving it to me. I want to dance and..." she kisses his lips softly, "Other things." "First things first," Jake says and pulls her away from the bar to the open dance area. He whirls her about and they nearly prance about to the music, one song after another. Finally, gasping for breath they return to the bar.

Ruby giggles her way through dancing with Jake. At the bar another round of drinks is ordered and much laughing and whispering and drinking continues as they catch their breath. Finally Ruby puts a serious look on her face and says, "I have to tell you something," but laughs at the end. "Do tell," he replies cheerily.

She tries to squash her smile but it doesn't want to stay off her lips. "Well, shomething Jane told me." She pauses and rubs her lips before continuing, "She, uh, she... thinks she might pick shomeone, uh, for the ceremony tomorrow... she is worried about it." Jake pulls Ruby close and nuzzling her neck whispers, "Why should we care about that?" Ruby answers simply, "Becaush it's me." Jake pulls his head back to look her in the eyes. "Sorry, you are taken. She will have to find some other delectable red head to feed her craving."

"Sho... it doesn't bother you at all then?" Ruby returns the gaze, hoping to find the truth beyond her fuzzy head. "I thought of finding out about her and Red sho I started asking questions. I didn't know she... well, she was right about shomething. She shaid at the festival the goddess drew her to me while pushing you away from me."

Jake snorts a derisive laugh. "I do not see why the gods are so interested in Jake Cook. They are likely not." He pauses to take a deep breath followed by a sigh. "I find it highly unlikely that every time I do something to endear you to me, or to annoy you that it is the gods at work. Seems to me they should have better things to do. Are they pulling everyone's strings? Jane may be directed by the goddess with everything she does, or maybe she just fervently believes that every decision she makes on her own is goddess inspired, or mayhaps Jane is selling snake oil and just uses the goddess as a convenient excuse so she can indulge in whatever she desires without guilt.

How would this poor saloon rat know; I have never lived in her bloomers. I will tell you this, I have small respect for folks that cannot stomach making their own decisions and living with the consequences. Looking for someone else to place the blame." Jake laughs, "Listen to me rant! Just because you did something at the festival that made me angry does not mean I was pushed away. Pity the man or woman, even that night, that attempts to come between me and my Ruby West."

Ruby listens intently as Jake rails on, with sentiment she has heard before. It felt good to know Jake really believed what he said and that his words held up over time. "You are sho smart and wise darling. Don't worry, no matter who tries to come between us your Ruby West is yours and always will be." She ends with a kiss, soft and sweet.

After the kiss Ruby notices Red nearby so she calls out, "Mr. Patrick, come and dance with me." She turns back to Jake, "Just a couple more dances darling... I'll be right back." She kisses his cheek then bounces over to Red. She enjoys her dance with Red, another with Jake and afterwards one with Jane too while Red and Jake share a final drink of the night. Ruby pulls Jane over to Red and Jake and says, "Sorry I have to steal him away from you now," as she begins pulling at Jake's sleeve. "It's time for you to take me to bed baby!"

"You do not have to ask twice." Jake nods politely to Jane. "We will see you folks in the morning I trust." With that they wander away. Ruby grabs a final glass of champagne as they make their way past the bar. She practically pulls Jake back to their room where she leans up against the wall next to the door while Jake fumbles for the key. She finishes her drink, gracefully extends her arm and drops the glass on the thick carpeting where it lands with a soft thud. “For houshekeeping,” she giggles. She lightly bites her lip as she continues to watch Jake open the door, looking him up and down with hungry eyes. “You know, I really like it here. I don’t want to leave.”

The door opens with a click. "Leave? We just got here, and my mind is elsewhere," he says and pulls her giggling into the room. Once inside the room Ruby pushes Jake away from her with a gentle shove. "Lishten baby, you're going to have to do what I say tonight," she smiles devilishly, "Because I feel like it. Must be all the champagne." Ruby slowly pulls her long hair over her shoulder and puts her back to Jake. She looks back over her shoulder at him. "Help me with my dress," she says in a slightly demanding tone with the smile remaining on her lips and an eyebrow raised.

Jake does so and takes the opportunity to breathe a little heavily on her neck and in her ear. Ruby moves seductively as she slowly pulls off her now loose gown, pushing it down. She uses a finger to guide Jake, pushing him back into the chair, causing him to fall into it. She pulls her underskirt high up on her thighs and places her foot between his legs on the chair. She offers him her leg, waiting for him to pull off her stockings.

Taking his time, letting his eyes wander, he pulls off her stockings while his fingers lightly brush her skin. Ruby smiles and pulls her leg off the chair when Jake is finished. She places her palm flat on his cheek and leaning forward, puts her face very close to his. "You're shuch a very good boy Jacob," she says in a low voice, letting her hair brush against his chest. Then she stands and walks over to the bed, leaning on one of the posters with her arms crossed. "Now abandon those clothes and join me, and don't keep me waiting too long."

"As you wish." He leaves a leisurely trail of clothes from the chair to the bed. Ruby points to the bed as Jake walks towards her, and she waits patiently for him to get into bed before she joins him. She straddles him and smiles wickedly. "So... you ready to remind me how much you want me right now? And how much you need me?" She leans over and puts her face close to Jake's and waits for his response.

"What, you have forgotten? I should be insulted," he says with mock indignation. "How could the woman whose warmth feels better than the sun, whose existence is the air that I breathe, whose smile nourishes my soul, and whose touch..." Jake then moves his hands to her, "... yes whose touch I crave like an addiction, forget? Perhaps you had other things on your mind." He allows a faint smile to creep onto his lips.

Her smile softens just a bit as she places her hands over Jake's and guides him, pulling off her loose top, before putting his hands back on her waist. "No baby, I think we have the same thing on our minds," she says in a low voice while gently running the tips of her fingers over his soft lips. Then she kisses him hard, pressing her body against him and devouring him with a passionate kiss, which is only the beginning of their torrid evening.

……………………

Late the next morning when Ruby finally wakes she finds Jake holding her tightly, staring at her. They exchange good mornings and sweet kisses before lying quietly with each other for a bit. Finally Ruby speaks. “Last night was fun.”

"You will find no argument from me."

“I enjoy being bossy,” she laughs. She does her familiar routine as she traces hearts along his chest, stopping every once in a while to kiss him instead. She lifts up her head and looks into his eyes, “I wasn’t kidding last night you know, about leaving. It does feel like we just got here but it’s almost time to go already. I do really like it here Jake.” "Simple solution, we just keep coming back."

Ruby is quiet for a moment, and she begins lightly biting her lip. "It's not that Jake. I feel safe here. Everyone loves us here, there is no one out to get us here." "Ah, is that it. Well, if we stayed here all the time, we would get involved in Tucson or something else and then we would have worries here too. So best that we let our worries be elsewhere and come here now and then to leave them behind." Ruby is quiet again and obviously uncomfortable. She continues to tap lightly on his chest. "I'm not so sure."

He comments, "No?" Ruby shrugs. "I guess you don't feel the same. It's just that sometimes at home it is so hard for us. Here we can do the things we want to, drink, gamble, be together, all in the comfort of this place." She waves her arm around. "No interruptions, no problems, no getting shot at and almost dying. I just want us to be together. And I'm having fun and we're so happy here."

Jake sighs. "Princess, I do not believe it is all that simple. We would not have all this," he waves his hand around, "If Red and I were not friends. We did not become friends just by having a few drinks and having fun. We were there for each other. This is like a prison for him in some ways. He is a wanted man so he hides here. We would not have a fraction of the trouble we had in Promise City if we were not helping Katherine, Nanuet or the others. What about Jane and all the trouble we got into because of her? You mean to tell me if Jane got into trouble here too you would abandon her? I think not. And the trouble that finds us when someone decides they must have Ruby West after seeing her perform? You so sure that could not find you here? Are you willing to cut stage performances out of your life to avoid that kind of trouble?" Jake shakes his head. "We could arrange to be so safe and secure that we would perish from boredom."

Ruby’s looks like a child that has been scolded. She stops tracing hearts and lets her hand fall flat against Jake’s chest. “You’re always right,” she says dully. “I wouldn’t want to be bored.” Jake sighs again but remains silent.

"I didn't mean that the way it sounded. I really don't want to be bored. But I also don't want to be dead and I worry about us, and this election. It's going to get ugly, I know it. Kate and Minerva are going to take vocal stands, and maybe even Nanuet too, I don't know. You willing to die for that Jake? Because while I want to stand by my friends, I don't want to lose you more."

"I am not the kind of fellow who is willing to die for a principle. So, no, I am not willing to die to have a fair election. Nor am I willing to give my life to give women, non humans or donkeys the vote. However, I just have a hard time standing by when my friends are in danger. The same friends that were there for me when I was hurt, when you were missing, and when we had to go to Thomaswell." He lays a hand on the side of her face. "I did not mean that to sound like you do not care about our friends. I know you do. There just must be a way we can reduce the risk to ourselves while we look after those more principled types," Jake chuckles, "That we seem to have latched onto for friends."

Ruby forces a fake smile onto her face. "Let's just try to enjoy ourselves while we are here and together then, ok?" "Just try? I dare say we will do more than try," He says ignoring the obvious displeasure she has shown with his answer. Ruby sits up in bed, taking the bed sheet with her. "Alright then. Let's get on with the day. I want to see the city of Tucson." She climbs out of bed and stands there momentarily, looking at Jake like she wants to say something else but doesn't.

She dresses quietly, obviously lost in her thoughts. When they are both dressed and ready they leave their room. Once Jake and Ruby finally emerge from their room they immediately search for their late breakfast in the kitchen. After they have scrounged some food Ruby decides to drag Jake for some sightseeing around Tucson. On the way out they bump into Jane.

"Good afternoon Janie," Ruby smiles at the petite woman, "I have a question for you. I want to take a bath before tonight's ceremony. What do you do to get clean around here?" Jane states, "What do I do? Ruby darling, I have a water pump and tub in my room. So does Red. You're welcome to go use it if you wish."

Ruby states, "You have a tub in your room? I am SO jealous. I wanted that in the Lucky Lady. Anyway, I will take you up on that offer when we return. Thanks Jane." She kisses her cheek and off they go. Jake and Ruby spend their day out lazily exploring the city of Tucson. When they return they search out Red and Jane for dinner.

They again enjoy a leisurely dinner in the partners room, full of much laughing, story telling and fun. Ruby is obviously getting fairly excited about the upcoming ceremony. When it was her turn to honor the goddess, she hoped she would send her a message, like she did for Jane. Maybe not exactly like she did for Jane, but something letting her know she was happy with her. Even the other parts of the ceremony seemed interesting to her and she hoped to enjoy it with Jake at her side.

After dinner is over Ruby excuses herself and returns to their room. She gathers Jake's favorite green gown and heads to Jane's room. She doesn't find her there, but the door is open, so she enters her room and quickly draws herself a bath. Next to the bath Ruby finds fragrant soaps and oils and even flower petals so she makes herself a decadent mixture to add to the steaming hot water.

She slips out of her gown and slides into the hot water with a satisfied "Ahhh." She leans her head back against the tub and closes her eyes, breathing in the calming scents and enjoying the relaxing feel of the hot water on her skin. Ruby enjoys a nice long bath. She doesn't hear Jane enter the room until the Priestess is almost to the tub, at which point Ruby opens her eyes. Jane smiles and says, "The tub is one luxury I truly appreciate. I see that you do as well."

Ruby states, "I really do. When I was young I had a private bath but after I left home I've had to use bathhouses. You know, it's just not as relaxing as having your own. And you have all the nice extras, I'll smell nice for the ceremony."

"Can you do my back?" Ruby asks, then leans forward in the tub and grasps her knees to her chest. "I am looking forward to it, you know, the ceremony. Except for the festival I've never really done something like this. I hope the goddess has been pleased with me lately. I'm sorta hoping she will give me a sign of some sort." Jane rubs Ruby's back and softy says, "We're here along together in my room darling, I would take that as a sign."

Ruby suddenly realizes that Jane wasn't really kidding about her feelings towards her. She grabs her knees even closer to her chest. "Uh, Jane, I really only wanted a bath. Honestly, I like you, but things are different for me now. I love Jake. And won't do anything to mess what we have up, not if I can help it. I thought you liked Red or at least was thinking of him..."

Jane steps away from the bathtub and walks across the room. The petite woman sits down on a velvet-covered lounge chair, lowers her head to her hands and begins to cry. "I do love Red!" she exclaims. She sobs some more and then gets up and walks over to the bar. She picks up a crystal glass but instead of pouring a drink she walks a few feet towards the side wall and then throws the glass right at the wall and into a framed photograph of her and Cornelius Van Horne standing together in front of the Three Gods Meeting Hall. The glass shatters, also breaking the glass in the picture frame.

"Jane!" Ruby exclaims while she quickly stands and wraps herself in a towel. Dripping with water she hurries over to her friend. She lays her hand on Jane's arm. "Jane... what is it? Please tell me." Jane exclaims” It’s HIM! Van Horne! Red's planning to be him yet again tonight!" Ruby states, "And...? I don't follow what the problem is."

Jane answers, "Truth Ruby, the problem is truth. When I do my dance....the Goddess shows me who to be with....but Red is always one of his alter egos, usually Van Horne and never himself. The Goddess requires love to be true, and truth means the true person, she would never draw me to a false personae." Jane returns to the bar and now pours herself a drink.

She takes a sip and then continues, "On Saturday's we have our biggest crowd, members are allowed to bring guests and any one of those guests might be a person who would recognize the face of Patrick O'Brien. So it is safer for him to play Van Horne. But if he's not himself during my worship service then how will I ever know?"

Ruby grasps the towel tighter to herself as she carefully steps over the glass and retrieves the picture of Jane and Red. She looks at it for a long moment before walking back to Jane. "I understand now. I always try to be truthful with Jake, he is the first and only person I've ever wanted that with." She reaches out her hand to Jane, handing her the picture. "What is in your heart Jane? Maybe the goddess wants you to make this important decision yourself."

Jane smiles and says, "You're right Ruby, what you said earlier about not being a Priestess of Aphrodite. It's hard for me to explain, but I don't make decisions about love for myself, I couldn't ever, that would be turning my back on my faith." She finishes the drink and says, "Take a look in the closet over there, I picked out some gowns for you earlier today. You might find one that you like." She then eyes Ruby's shapely figure beneath the towel and adds, "I think I guessed your size correctly." Jane then leaves the room, shutting the door behind her.

When Jake has Mr. Patrick alone for a few minutes he asks him, "In what name would you like your five percent of the Lucky Lady?" He smiles and replies, "How about Cornelius Van Horne. That will drive Adair absolutely crazy. It would also explain my sponsoring the Poker Tournament there. It might also help if I tell Adair that I won it in a poker game from you, and considers me an inside source of information for him. However, he might also be too suspicious to share anything with me going forward."

Jake exclaims, "Done. Van Horne it is. I will take care of that when we get back. You are probably right on both counts, but it seems the wisest choice. I will use that story if anyone asks." Red replies, "He might buy it, after all, he won the Palace Saloon in a poker game. I have an idea, why don't you play Mr. Van Horne tonight and lose that share to him at a table full of witnesses. That'll really confirm the story. I can even make sure that a newspaperman is present to report it." Jake states, "You are a conniver after my own heart. This will be fun."

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter Twenty-nine, “Kate’s Conversations”, Saturday May 27th, 1882, 1030 A.M.

Kate replies, "Thank you, Dorita. I hope it's nothing serious. Your grandfather certainly doesn't like to stay still, does he?" She replies "He was very determined. He left right after he saw yesterday's newspaper." Kate says, "I'll have to take a look at yesterday's paper. I've been so busy I haven't had a chance."

Kate's parents return to the El Parador while Kate is talking to Dorita. Her mother exclaims, "This is a very interesting town, not at all how I pictured it." Frederick says, "I, on the other hand, thought it would be just like this. I ran into an old friend while we were out, a General from Germany named Ferdinand von Zeppelin, who had I met in the war. He was an observer with the Union army. He says that he's planning to soon build a manufacturing facility on the outskirts of this town.

Kate says, "Really? I had no idea. It seems a bit of an odd place to be doing manufacturing but then I'm no expert on business. I'm curious, both of you," Kate said, sitting down with her parents, "What did you expect?"

Kate's mother says, "I expected to see grasslands and green fields but it is mostly desert and rocks. I am told that the land south and west of here has green fertile lands, fed by the runoff of the mountains, but you wouldn't know if from around here." Frederick says, "I pictured a wild west town, this place lives up to that. Phillip must be beside himself with happiness, that's just what he wanted to see too."

"Phil is beside himself," Kate laughed. "And apparently Mr. Booth and I both already warned him that he'd better still go to college and not think moving here would be more fun. Which he assured me he is not going to do. It is very dry here, Maman, which is why the doctor thought it would be better for Tom. But after a rainstorm it comes alive with colors. I do miss the sound of rain though, and feeling of grass and hearing branches slap against my windows in the wind. Where did the two of you go this morning?"

She says, "We went shopping. Lacey's Store, Wainwright's Store, Cook's General Store, Hammer's Jewelry and Watch-making, lunch at the Silver Dollar Restaurant, and then your father bought some of those awful cigars at Boyd's Cigar Store." "Which I will enjoy tonight," Frederick replies "I will be joining Mr. Lacey, Count von Zeppelin, and Michael Seawell to exchange old war stories."

Kate replies, "You have been busy. And here I was worried about leaving you to your own devices. You'll know the town better than I do by the time you leave. Mrs. Wainwright is a friend of mine, Maman. I'm glad you stopped by their store."

Ginnie stumbles in from the kitchen with a huge basket in her arms. "Dorita you should see all the stuff I was able to gather up! Are there any cookies? I got you some really early clover blossoms and some really nice cactus that had broken off that makes a great spiced jelly. And I even found some mint too. Hi Ma'am Kate!

Kate got up and divested Ginnie of her basket by taking it and setting it on the table. Then she hugged the girl and kissed her forehead. "Good morning sweetheart. I haven't seen you yet today. Did you eat?" Ginnie replies, “Ma'am I'm a better cook than you are and I don't leave a mess in the kitchen yes I ate but I still would like a cookie if I can hunt one up or maybe one of the sugar donuts that were frying up?”

Kate says, "Go ahead you hungry thing, but then come back here please. Something happened this morning I need to tell you about." Ginnie heads into the kitchen fills a plate full of leftovers and hot sugar donuts grabs a pitcher of milk and a glass and plunks herself down at a table near Kate.
As she begins to eat she looks at Kate expectantly

Kate stole a donut from Ginnie's plate at nibbled at it. "I took Mr. Pickering to see the schoolroom this morning; he wants to use it to give his students a lecture this afternoon. Which we are invited to, by the way," she said address her parents as well.

Kate's face darkened as she went on. "When we got there a sign had been nailed to the door saying 'Condemned! Condemnations to those who would use this building to corrupt the minds of innocent youth with falsehoods!' or some such nonsense. We should both keep our eyes open and be careful. I doubt anyone means us any physical harm, but better safe than sorry."

Ginnie nodded a far away look on her face between bites. "We'll need to make sure that there is some security for the lecture a problem during it could make for a messy scene. where's the sign? any misspelled words or hairs from the brush that was used to make it in the paint? We might be able to have the priest "find" the rest of the brush and there by it's owner with it and although I'm betting on the Vigilance Committee I'd like to know who in this town is gunning for us. I'll check with my sources and see what I can find out.

"I have a good idea who it was. Last night Ashley King warned me that his mother, Doctor Eaton, and that tutor Ichabod Shackelton had been scheming. He hadn't heard their plans, but he thought our school might be one of their targets. I'm not sure accusing them is the way to go. It will only bring attention to them. The sign is in our kitchen at the moment so you can get a look at it if you like. I would like to know how far they're willing to go. My real fear is they will get someone worked up whose prejudice would lead them to violence."

Frederick gets noticeably angry at hearing of the sign. Kate's mother says, "That's dreadful. Whoever put it there obviously knows nothing about you and what you believe." Ginnie looks directly into Fredrick's eyes and says quietly "Angry people make mistakes, you enemies mistake is your advantage. The goal of the sign is to make people angry enought to talk about it and make the well maybe their right thought happen, and it's working.” "You're right Ginnie, that anger must be well-managed. Our enemies did make a mistake today, we will not."

Kate says, "Actually Maman, they do. They know I believe that children of all races deserve an education. They don't agree. There was an outbreak of measles last week, and the Doctor would not treat any non-human children. And while I have no proof, I understand one of the reasons the town has been slow about starting a public school is that Mrs. King is upset that her grandson lives too far out of town to attend, thereby robbing her of influence in it. Papa, I knew something like this would happen. Frankly I'm surprised it took this long."

Frederick says, "I will discuss this with the men I spending tonight with. I believe that a quartet of war veterans can help put our minds to see what ideas we can come up with to help turn the tide of this situation. In the meanwhile let's round up your brothers and Mr. Booth to attend this lecture of Pickerings." "Thank you, Papa. This is all new to me and I don't want to make any mistakes.

Dorita interrupts Kate, saying "I found newspaper". She hands Kate the sixteen page Promise City Mirror. The main stories are a short piece about the Tombstone fire and a much longer piece about the death and funeral of Warren Earp. She points to a related story on Page three with the headline "Wyatt Earp Alive" which tells of his rescue of Henry Seagram from the burning Brown's Hotel. Dorita says, "That the story that got him all worked up. He went upstairs, packed a travel bag, he came down stairs and left saying he be back today or Sunday."

Kate's brow furrowed as she looked over the story. "Obviously there are a lot of things going on I don't know about. None of us has much reason to like the Earps but I don't know why this would send him running off. I'll have to have a talk with him when he gets back. Perhaps it has to do with this message."

Kate asks her parents, “Any idea where Henry is? I haven't seen him yet this morning, nor Mr. Booth." Dorita interjects that Booth and Phillip shared a quick bite a short while ago and then headed back to Conrad's house. She thinks that Henry is upstairs in his room, having gone back there after breakfast. Kate said, "Papa, Mr. Booth lives right next door. Why don't you go fetch he and Phil, and I'll go get Henry."

Kate went quickly up the stairs on knocked on the door to the room her brothers were sharing. "Henry? It's Jacqueline." "Come in," Henry states. She finds him seated on the bed writing a letter on the desk beside it. He appears to now be on the third page, but from the pile of crumpled up papers stacked on the other end of the bed he has been through multiple drafts before getting this far.

She sat down on the bed next to him, careful not to read what he was writing. "Want to talk about it? I doubt you're having that much trouble writing a letter to Elaine." Henry says with anguish in his voice, "How do I tell her and the girls that I almost died? And that my life was saved by one of Tom's killers?"

Kate put her arms around her brother and drew his head down to her shoulder, waiting several long moments to speak. "You tell them that you were trying to save a pregnant woman's life. That the building was coming down around your ears and you were struck, and that a man got you out. It won't be easy for them to hear, but they know you are alive and well and will come home to them."

She leaned back so she could look him in the eyes. "Wyatt Earp did not kill Tom. Morgan Earp did. Wyatt helped to hide it, but he was nowhere near the alley where Tom died," she said, her voice breaking a bit. "So you tell them that the man who wronged your sister remembered a bit of his humanity. That through his action in saving you he admitted he had wronged her. That he took the responsibility for his family that has been your sister's only desire since she learned the truth.
Henry, we owe Wyatt Earp nothing. He owed us. Saving you was only a start at paying back that debt."

He nods and says, "Thank you." He gestures to the letter and says, "Maybe I should just set this aside and try again later. Perhaps tomorrow after the worship service." She replies, "That might be better. I know that... uh, services help you to feel more certain. Mr. Pickering has invited us to sit in on a lecture to his students this afternoon. It's why I came looking for you. Would you like to come?"

"Absolutely" he replies. The two of them head over to the school building. It is not yet 2:00 P.M. but the students have already gathered there. The three Seagrams along with Conrad Booth soon arrive. Also present is the newspaper reporter Angela Young, who was selling newspapers when she heard of the lecture and decided to attend. She walks up to both Conrad and Henry, kisses them each on the cheek and says, "Thank you both for saving my life."

"Most of those thanks belong to Mr. Booth here," Henry said. "My good intentions notwithstanding. But far be it from me to refuse a kiss from a pretty girl." Kate approached them after a moment. "I'm so glad you're alright, Mrs. Young," Kate said. "Seems bring a reporter is a dangerous business. Exciting though. Shall we all have a seat?"

She led them over to the benches at the back of the room, taking a seat next to Conrad. "So what were you and Phil up to?" "Just showing him what I do for a living," Conrad replies. He then says in a much lower voice, "What is this I hear about you sharing drinks and chatting with Ashley King?"

"He was there with Mr. Shaw and Mr. Oldfield. They are starting a Cattleman's Association and wanted to speak to me about it. Mr. King took the opportunity to warn me that his mother, Doctor Eaton, and Ichabod Shackelton have been conspiring and he suspects the school is one of their targets." Kate said in an equally low voice. She then explained about the sign on the schoolhouse door earlier. "So apparently he wasn't wrong. And where did you hear I was speaking with him?"

Conrad says, "Word gets around. Heard that you and he were acting mighty friendly with each other. Be careful around him, he may act charming but he's a very dangerous man." "Conrad Booth are you jealous?" she whispered. "I assure you, nothing more happened than about five minutes of conversation sitting at a table, and I don't expect or desire the experience to be repeated. Why do you think he's dangerous? I know very little of him."

Conrad lowers his voice and says, "He murdered his wife. She had given him an ultimatum, either her or his mother. That was his answer. He got away with it too, paid off Marshall Hollister who then declared it a suicide." The color drained from Kate's face. "That's horrible. Conrad, you're certain? How do you know? You think his warning was purposeful, meant to draw me into conflict with his mother?"

Conrad replies, "No, he was probably sincere. Rumor is that he and his mother are having differences of opinion on a few things, the main one being who he should remarry to give his little Troy a new mother. And how do I know....by keeping my eyes and ears open and my mouth shut. Do you really think things happen out at that ranch without at least some of the ranch hands knowing?" She says, "I suppose not, I just.... I know things like that happen but it makes me sick to think of it. And you seem angry with me. I'm just... I'm a little thrown."

Conrad replies, "Oh, I'm angry, but not at you. At myself for not giving you more advanced warning about Ashley, and at his mother and her freinds. Helen told me about that sign on your door." Kate lightly brushed her fingers across his hand. "There's no harm done. Why would you imagine he'd speak to me at all? I've been working all morning at not being angry. I'm not going to rise to their bait. I just hope... is it foolish to be concerned about real violence? Maybe I've just been shot at too many times." Conrad replies, "On that point I totally agree." "And yet you keep coming around," Kate teased.

On that subject Ginnie is outside talking to two of the neighborhood children. She comes inside and tells Kate and Conrad "Manny Tolucca saw the sign being nailed up. He says it was Kirby Watkins who did it." Kate says, "Related to Peg and Bill Watkins, I take it. Our list of enemies grows longer.” Conrad says, "He's their son. He's had some trouble with the law before, which meant he would be the fall guy if caught. Either that or he did it on his own to get back into his father's good graces."

"That would imply he was out of it," Kate said as Ginnie wiggled onto the bench next to her. "He must have done something truly awful, like say something nice about a non-human," she said without humor. He says, "What he did was give Great Western keys to the Cowboy Gang, and they set the Earp's possessions on fire and shot at the Marshall's Office. That was on that back in March that day when Nanuet was shot and almost killed."

Any number of very ugly things to say came to mind, but Kate pushed those away. Instead she spent a moment being grateful that Nanuet had not died that day. "Well, we know one thing that Watkins considers going too far, at least. Too bad I could never get him to believe I had anything to do with the Cowboy Gang's poor fortune not long after that. So it's possible Rebecca King and her cohorts haven't really made their first move yet. You know, starting a school should not be this complicated."

Kate turns to her ward and asks, “Did you find out anything else, Ginnie? And are the kids excited for school to start? I certainly don't want them involved in any of this, but their excitement can go a long way toward keeping their parents well disposed to the school. And the sad faces of disappointed children can melt a lot of hard hearts."

Silence fell on the bench as they waited for Mr. Pickering to begin his lecture. It was a bit uncomfortable with the unusual, dark feeling coming from Conrad on one side and the nervous energy from Ginnie on the other. The room was busy with pleasant conversations and the familiar voices of her family talking comforted her and soothed her mind a bit.

"Oh!" She said suddenly. "I was supposed to meet the Caudells at noon to see a house. All this business this morning completely threw it out of my mind. And it's too late to even send a note." Her shoulders slumped. "I think maybe I should have just stayed in bed this morning."

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter Thirty, “The Indian Prisoners”, Saturday May 27th, 1882, 2:00 P.M.

Minerva spends the morning in her back yard practicing with her whip. It is a good exercise to relieve the anger and frustration that she is feeling about the views of certain town folk. After a light lunch she heads back to the schoolhouse to listen in on the lecture.

Pickering begins his lecture. He spends the next ninety minutes lecturing about the Arizona night sky of this time of year, using the slate chalk board to illustrate the various star constellations and planets that can be seen first with the naked eye and then adding those that will be visible through the telescopes. The final thirty minutes of the lecture is for questions, with most coming not from his students but instead from Ginnie and Angela.

Once the lecture started Kate let go of everything else and enjoyed learning something new. She wasn't surprised with Ginnie's questions, but Mrs. Young did surprise her a bit. As a reporter of course it was her job to ask questions, but she grasped the lecture so well that Kate would have thought she'd had some prior education on the subject.

Minerva listens to the Professor as he scientifically explains away the upcoming Solar Eclipse. Although she finds his lecture rather interesting from a secular point of view, she is mostly amused by his neat and tidy explanations. As she walks home in the late afternoon heat, to prepare the evening meal in preparation of Nanuet's return, she can't help wonder what the gods really have up their divine sleeves and if the coming eclipse has anything to do with the current political unrest that is dominating the minds and souls of the inhabitants of Promise City.

After the lecture everyone got up and mingled together. Kate smiled at Miss Florencia who has slipped in just before Mr. Pickering began his talk. She turned to Angela and asked, "Will you follow the Professor and his students through their visit?"

Angela replies, "I at least plan to interview him for a story. It's not every day that a Harvard Professor and Director comes to Promise City. Oh, on a similar note, please excuse me a minute. I almost forgot the reason I was sent here in the first place." Angela then walks up to the podium and takes out a stack of papers from her satchel and yells out "Promise City Mirror for sale! Tombstone Fire Exclusives! Information on Monday's Meeting! Only a nickel a copy!" Kate followed and paid the nickel. "Mr. Chumbley knew there would be a gathering here? I swear, his ears must be so sharp he could hear a whisper from a mile away." She let Angela get on with selling her papers and took a quick look through to see what was in this issue, especially about Monday's meeting.

Most of the news in the twenty-page Mirror consists of updates on the Tombstone Fire. Angela apparently spent a considerable amount of time at Schieffelin Hall interviewing dozens of townsfolk and the articles are filled with short human interest stories about the fire's impact. There is also a half-page ad from Tombstone Mayor John Carr and Acting Marshall Marshall Williams thanking the town of Promise City for the loan of the Fire Wagon.

Regarding the meeting, there is mention of how the Tombstone Fire emphasizes the need for Incorporation, as current Arizona law would require the Arizona Territory to have telegraph lines running to the town by no later than the election day. The article quotes Dave Melany stating that "A telegram now travels faster from Paris, France to Tombstone than from Tombstone to Promise City."

Chumbley has a front page editorial about the importance of all races getting the right to vote that continues on into two interior pages. Angela Young has an interior editorial emphasizing her own age and background and stating how the town has many working adults like herself that are younger than eighteen and how that should be taken into consideration when deciding who can vote.

The biggest piece is support of allowing all races to vote is a full page editorial sponsored by the "Committee for Racial Equality". All six of the committee members are male human business owners and their names are prominently stated. These men are: Travis Calhoun of the Gunsight Brick Yard , Neil Cassidy of Cassidy Lumber, Rufus Davis of the Arizona Billiard Hall, Roger Fly of Fly's Photo Studio and Boarding House, Niles Hoover of Hoover Liquor and the Lucky Lady Saloon, and Cole Rixton of Rixton's Furniture.

The back page of the paper is a full-page ad for the Palace Saloon. It mentions Saturday Night Boxing with a highly-anticipated bout between the favorite Finnegan and Boston Harker, foreman of the Breakheart Stamping Mill and Smelter. The ad also has a pair of coupons for two free drink this evening only, one drink between the hours of 8:00 and 10:00 PM and the other between the 10:00 PM and Midnight.

Kate laughed delightedly even as tears filled her eyes when she read the editorial from the "Committee for Racial Equality." She already knew most of those men to be good people, but the pride she felt in them at that moment was almost overwhelming.

"It seems we know the first place to go for some help," Kate said to Ginnie, showing her the article. "That is one committee I'm certain I want to be part of. Look Papa," she said louder as she caught her father's eye. As Conrad came over Kate pointed out the Palace ad and said, "It looks like it'll be a quiet night at the Long Branch and the Lucky Lady. Something is going to have to be done about that soon."

Frederick Seagram points out that he will be joining his army friends for dinner so not to expect him. Amelie Seagram suggests that the others dine at the Promise City Hotel, as she has heard good things about Melissa Smith's cooking. Conrad declines, stating that he will have his usual meal at the El Parador, as Dorita's cooking helps to put him in the proper frame of reference for work. Phil offers to join him but Conrad suggest instead that he should eat with his mother and brother.

Kate says, "I'll join you there around six o'clock? I'm sorry Phil, I know we'd planned to go to the ranch today, but we'll have to put that off until tomorrow. I was supposed to meet the Caudells earlier and I forgot, I should be here when they return for their things. You're all welcome to stay here with me, but it's going to be rather quiet so you might prefer to explore the town further instead. I'll have to work tonight, if you'd care to spend some time at the Lucky Lady."

Conrad says, "You folks will want to do that. They have a classical pianist perform on most Saturday nights who you will definitely want to hear." After a short discussion they agreed to meet for dinner, then go over to the Lucky Lady afterward. Friedrich, Amelie, and Phil all headed out to find their own amusement. The room eventually cleared until there was no one left but herself and Henry tiding up. Once that was finished they retired to kitchen for tea and wait for the Caudells to return or for it to be time for dinner.

"I'm feeling overwhelmed," Kate said honestly. "There is so much happening it makes my head spin and I can't get a handle on where to begin. But there will be people for me to talk to at the Lady tonight. Perhaps I can find some direction." "You'll find it, Jacqueline," Henry said quietly. "This is an unusual situation. Back home everything is established and you knew how to move though that quagmire. Here it's all nebulous and unformed, constantly changing around you.

That Mrs. King wants to be the Old Guard, the Lady of the town without whose approval nothing can be done. The subtle pressures of society in Boston aren't here yet. A little push here, the pull there that you would have exerted before now won't make a dent. That's what she wants to create. Seems others here don't want that, and neither do you. Be who you are, follow your instincts, and stick to your principles. I can't guarantee you'll win, but even if you don't you'll still be able to respect yourself in the morning."

Kate squeezed her brother's hand and smiled. "Life is an adventure," she said, echoing something Ruby had said not so long ago. "Perhaps it's time to take my cue from Phil and just jump in." The two continued to talk until the Caudell family returned to the house.

Across town, Chester arrives at the Sheriff's Office. He knocks on the door. "Sheriff Hunter? It's Deputy Martin. I've got a situation." Hunter says, "Come on in, Deputy. What can I help you with?" Chester replies, "I tracked a bunch of livestock thieves to their hideout. My friend and a couple ranch hands have them in custody at a cave. Since the crimes happened outside of town and we captured them outside, I've got no jurisdiction. Can you come out to arrest them?"

Hunter replies, "Sure, no problem. We'll have to put them in your jail though instead of mine. I don't have any assistance here at the moment to help guard them and until Wyatt Earp is caught I have a rather full plate. Too much else to do than guard prisoners."

Chester replies, "I don't see a problem with that. I'll go clear this with the Marshall first. We'll need a wagon since there are a few prisoners. Can you set that up?" Hunter says, "No problem. See you later." "Thanks Sheriff." Chester hustles to the Marshall's Office. Berg is behind the desk. "Mitch? Me and Nanuet were looking into some livestock thefts. We got the guys, but they were outside of town. Sheriff Hunter's willing to take them in, but he can't hold them. Is it OK to put them in our hoosegow?"

Berg replies, "Sure, there's four of us to help guard them. Who are these thieves? Not Cowboy Gang I hope." Chester replies, "No, they're Indians. It looks like they're rogues, not a raiding party. But we can figure that out later."

Berg agrees and says that he'll round up both Helen and Eduardo while Chester is off with the Deputy Sheriff. As per Renner's suggestion Chester also gets Rudy Baines to ride along with a wagon to pick up the partially smoked meat. Hunter rents a wagon from Drover's Livery to transport the prisoners in. They arrive back at the cave mid-afternoon.

Deputy Sheriff Colin Hunter sends both Renner and Flynn back to their respective farm and ranch to get the owners to come back to identify the livestock in the cave. It takes about an hour for Greene and Oldfield to return, where they confirm the calf and chickens are theirs. Both men state that they will press changes and come to town Monday morning for a trial. Oldfield negotiates a price with Baines for the meat and the butcher heads back to town with a full cart load. The farmer and rancher leave with their livestock.

Chester, Nanuet ride alongside Colin Hunter as the man brings the five shackled Indians back to town. They are then secured in the two cells inside the Town Jail. With five prisoners the Marshall suggests two guards on duty instead of one. Berg assigns Chester and Helen to guard until supper time. He says that he and Eduardo will take over then and watch until morning, at which time he asks Helen and Chester to return.

Once the prisoners are secure Nanuet heads out to find Minerva. He heads to her home and finds her working on the evening meal. His mood lightens a bit once he sees her and he announces his presence with a bear hug and a kiss. "I'm glad to be home Minerva, today was a trying day. How did your day go?" he says as he begins sampling the meal that she is working on.

Minerva playful slaps his hand away from the food and at the same time turns into his embrace and wraps her arms around him in return. "You will ruin your appetite, mi amor." she teases and kisses him warmly before he can respond. "I managed to keep myself amused but I missed you." she leans her head back to examine his face. "You DO look like you have had a difficult day. Come and sit. I will rub your shoulders while you tell me what has happened."

Nanuet is glad to feel Minerva's caring touch. He laughs at her comments about ruining his appetite. "I think my appetite is incapable of being ruined" he says with a smile as he does as she requests and makes his way over to a comfortable chair. He breaths deeply through his nose letting Minerva rub the stress out of his shoulders.

"We went to the ranches early as you know, Chester and I, to investigate the disappearing livestock. I feared it may have been the Apache violating the treaty and feared the worst. We were able to follow some tracks out to a cave, a cave we had visited previously."

He stops and reaches back gently pulling her hand from his shoulder to his lips so that he can kiss it lightly before continuing. He turns towards her saying "Remember the Yavapi that we met at the train station before heading out for our training?" She replies, "Yes Mi Amor, I remember the ruffians, they seemed a troublesome bunch, and your cousin, was he not part of that group?"

Nanuet nods and a painful look appears in his eyes. "It was them who were stealing the livestock. The two from that day and my cousin were all there. They were hiding out in the cave and using it as a base for raiding the nearby ranches. We had a gunfight with them and eventually they were all arrested, save one who escaped through a chimney hole in the back of the cave. I arrested my own people today, I had no choice, but I still can't help but feel like I betrayed them."

Minerva takes his hands and looks into his eyes to be sure that he understands. "No mi amore, You are not the betrayer! It is those despicable ruffians who have betrayed your people. By denouncing and arresting them, you have sent a clear message to the humans that they are not your people, that your people are good and honest and do not tolerate such savagery. But what of Nakomo? He is but a boy. We should do something to help him. Perhaps I should go to the sheriff and speak on his behalf."

Nanuet replies, "Yes, he is just a boy. The sheriff is not the one too decide his fate, I fear. I am not sure what good talking to him will do, but I suppose it might lay the groundwork for future discussions on his behalf. They are being held in the jail here, as there were not enough men to watch them elsewhere. I hope it is not too late for him, that these men have not poisoned him so much that he is beyond redemption."

Nanuet replies, “I do not think that he is beyond saving. He was not unkind when he spoke to you in Tempe. I believe he has done their bidding out of fear and a misplaced sense of loyalty. They were not kind to him and treated him little better than a slave. We shall explain this to the sheriff. He may be willing to remand Nakomo to my custody if you are willing to take on such a responsibility. Then we could return him to the tribe."

"I am certainly willing to take on that responsibility, he is my family, of which I did not even realize any were left. The elders have kicked them out of the tribe, but I am sure they too do not know the full story, then again, truly neither do we. I would like to try and do something for the young elf and set him on a better path, at least give him a chance."

Minerva replies, “Well then , we shall go and speak with the Marshall... but for now it will do him good to sit in a cell and worry about the consequences of what he has allowed himself to be a part of." she places a meal of fresh baked bread and elk stew on the table before him.

Nanuet smiles, both at the advice and the food. He eats the hearty meal, deep in thought and not saying another word until he finishes. He thanks Minerva for the meal and asks what her plans are for the rest of the day. "I have to go check on Ruby and Jake's house and then I'll be at the Lucky Lady working, do you have any plans?"

Minerva moves around the room clearing the table and tidying up the kitchen. "I think that I will visit the Lucky Lady later this evening. “Would you like to go and speak to the Marshall before then or would you prefer that I speak to him on your behalf? I really do not know how he feels about elves in general. It may be wise to have a word or two with your cousin before hand to see where he stands on the matter? Does he speak English?"

"I think we should both go now. I will come with you so that my cousin sees me and can get an idea about what is going on. I will allow you to most of the talking with the sheriff if you don't mind. Come, let's go now." Nanuet cleans his plate and helps with the clean up and then he and Minerva head to where the renegade elves are being held.