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"Here There Be Vampires" A Promise City, Arizona Story Hour
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<blockquote data-quote="orchid blossom" data-source="post: 2873085" data-attributes="member: 12815"><p><span style="font-size: 12px">Old Acquaintences</span></p><p></p><p>The ride between Promise City and Tombstone is a familiar one for both of them and today's journey proves to be less problem filled than some of those trips before. About half-way there they cross paths with the Wells Fargo Stage, returning to Promise City, with Chuck Nevers tipping his hat towards the couple.</p><p></p><p>Nanuet cringes as they reach the spot where he had Chester had been ambushed and captured two months earlier but today there are no problems at that section of roadway. They arrive in Tombstone at approximately 4:30 P.M.</p><p></p><p>Nanuet and Minerva make their way over to the train station and purchase tickets to Flagstaff before securing a hotel room for the night. As they make their way to the hotel Luna glides down and lands on Minerva shoulder. "Buenas Tardes, Luna." she says scratching her affectionately between the shoulder blades. "Where have you left Maska?"</p><p></p><p>Nanuet concentrates to see if he can sense Maska's presence. He can sense that she is nearby but most likely hunting. "Maska's around, she is trying to locate her supper I believe."</p><p> </p><p>"Let us find the hotel that we stayed at during our previous visit. I have some rather fond memories of their tub," she laughs.</p><p></p><p>Nanuet and Minerva stop at the O.K. Corral to board their horses for the next several days. They then make their way up to the Grand Hotel which is part of and adjacent to Big Nose Kate's Restaurant, the finest eating establishment in town. The clerk waits on them and gives them a key to an available room, which turns out to be the same room that they stayed in during their previous trip in April.</p><p></p><p>"Well at least we know the tub doesn't leak," Nanuet says with a wink and some mild blushing. </p><p></p><p>They enjoy a nice meal at the restaurant, both consuming a bit too much alcohol and retire to the room to enjoy each other's company.</p><p></p><p>Minerva stops and turns Nanuet to face her before they enter the room. She wraps her arms around him and kisses him passionately; she pulls back and plays with the tie of his vest. "Do you remember what you said the last time that we were here, Mi Amor?"</p><p></p><p>He opens the door to the room and it is a repeat of the scene from their last visit to Big Nose Kate’s. Flower petals are strewn about the room on the bed and in the fragrant steaming bath.</p><p> </p><p>Nanuet's face cracks with a wide grin as he sees the room decorated as it had been not so long ago. He thinks back to what he said the last time the room was decked out in the same fashion and blushes. "I know this will probably get me in trouble but I admit I do not remember what I said exactly, although I can assure you I meant what I said." he says stumbling over the words trying to avoid Minerva’s gaze.</p><p> </p><p>Minerva laughs at his discomfort. "You told me that the 'next time' I could take care of everything! Do you not remember charging by me like a crazed bull to get to the desk clerk the last time we visited? Now it is my turn and I shall take care of everything," she says pushing him into the room with her body and kicking the door closed behind her with her foot while she works on removing his vest.</p><p> </p><p>The awkwardness he was feeling at not being able to remember vanishes as quickly as it had come. He slips out of the vest with Minerva's help and returns the passionate kiss she had given him earlier. He nuzzled her gently and then lifted her easily off her feet.</p><p> </p><p>Minerva laughs. "I am the one who is supposed to take care of everything," she says wiggling out of his arms. She quickly removes her garments and effortlessly picks up Nanuet and slips him into the tub. She quickly climbs in after him.</p><p></p><p>Nanuet is shocked for a moment as Minerva scoops him off his feet. He doesn't struggle, but laughs as she slips him into the tub and smiles as she joins him. "Minerva you never cease to amaze me. Your beauty, your strength, your brilliance. I love you Miss Florencia, more and more each day."</p><p></p><p>"As I do you. Now you just relax." She says picking up the cloth and soaping it up. "I shall take care of everything."</p><p></p><p>Nanuet had never been in a situation quite like the one he was in now, but then again he had learned that Minerva would introduce him to many new experiences. He did his best to relax and allowed Minerva to take care of him.</p><p> </p><p>The following morning Minerva places Luna in her cage and makes her way to the train station with Nanuet.</p><p> </p><p>Monday, May 15th, 1882, 10:30 A.M.</p><p></p><p>Purchasing tickets for the train to Flagstaff proves to be easy but boarding the trains becomes more difficult as the train’s conductor insists that the wire cage housing Luna must be placed in the baggage car. Minerva adamantly refuses and both the Tombstone Depot Manager and train’s engineer become involved in the discussion. </p><p></p><p>Concessions are only made due to Minerva being a priestess on official church business, so the end result is that Luna is allowed to travel with them and only provided that she does not annoy any of the other passengers. Minerva assures them that the owl will not be any trouble. </p><p></p><p>At 12:45 P.M. the train they are riding on stops at its destination at the train depot, which services the adjacent communities of Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tempe. Nanuet and Minerva have a little more than a two-hour before the northbound train to Prescott and Flagstaff departs.</p><p> </p><p>"Well it seems like we have a couple hours before we leave again, shall we check out this town, perhaps get something to eat? Maybe you can let Luna stretch her wings if she need to."</p><p></p><p>"Si, that is a fine idea. Let us get you some lunch!" she says looking around for a likely spot to procure a meal.</p><p> </p><p>They travel a short distance from the train depot to the Cactus Flower restaurant. The specialty of the day is barbequed beef ribs, roast corn on the cob and a wheat bread with strawberry jam.</p><p></p><p>Nanuet and Minerva eat their fill, and Nanuet procures some extra food to bring with them. After that they wander around a little bit keeping fairly close to the train station so that they are not late for their departure.</p><p> </p><p>At around 2:15 P.M. they are still waiting for the outbound train north to pull into the station for the departure at five minutes before 3:00. Nanuet and Minerva are just sitting around minding their own business when Nanuet spots trouble.</p><p></p><p>A group of six male Indians are approaching from down the street. All six are attired in standard western garb, leather boots, wool/cotton blend pants, cotton work shirts and leather vests or coats. Rather than cowboy hats they are all wearing patterned cotton bandanas across their heads, the pattern being a common one worn by the Western Apache.</p><p></p><p>That these men are trouble isn't just a guess, Nanuet knows it for a fact, as he recognizes four of them. One universal commonality of nearly all races is that there are bullies who prey upon the weak. That was the case with Nanuet's people as well. As a teenager he and other loners were always picked on by this older pair of Yavapai brothers, Naumkeag and Nesenkeag. The problem was exacerbated when the white men combined the tribe with the Western Apache and those boys found kindred spirits with a pair of Apache bullies named Kokokehas and Pakesso, with Pakesso becoming the leader of the pack.</p><p></p><p>Nanuet reflects back on the quartet. At least none of them are related to him, so Kajika's spell will prevent them from remembering him. Nanuet had always tried to avoid them, but stood up to them whenever they picked on his cousin Nakomo. Nakomo was a skinny little half-elf, the result of a union between Nanuet's aunt and a human tracker. Last he heard these men were still living on the reservation near San Carlos, approximately ninety miles east of where they are now. Obviously that was no longer the case.</p><p> </p><p>Minerva can sense that Nanuet is unsettled when the group of elves comes into view. He glares at them but doesn't move, just keeping an eye on them as they approach.</p><p></p><p>The six approach and glare at Nanuet and Minerva. Pakesso gives Minerva a lecherous look and then whispers something to the Indian beside him, who Nanuet doesn't know. They continue past for around thirty feet and then stop at another bench at the train depot, with Pakesso continuing to glare at Minerva.</p><p></p><p>Nanuet stands and paces then stares right back at Pakesso.</p><p></p><p>Pakesso stops staring. After around ten minutes one of the Indians takes out a pocketwatch and says something to the others. Naumkeag says in the Apache language loud enough for Nanuet to hear, "He better hurry up or we'll miss the train. I'll see what's keeping him."</p><p></p><p>Naumkeag walks back the way they had come, walking by Nanuet and Minerva, and starts to head down the street. He apparently then sees who he is looking for as he stops and yells in the Yavapai language, "Hurry up you slow-witted fool, you're about to made us late."</p><p></p><p>Nanuet glances down the street and sees an Indian boy in Yavapai clothing pushing an overloaded handcart filled with well-worn luggage and horse saddlebags. As he gets closer Nanuet recognizes the boy as being his half-elf cousin Nakomo.</p><p> </p><p>Nanuet turns to Minerva and says, "I'll be right back, please stay here."</p><p></p><p>Nanuet walks quickly forward happy to see his cousin and at the same time irate to see that he was still the target of these ruffians.</p><p> </p><p>Minerva, although she cannot speak the language, recognizes the posturing of bullies. She keeps an eye on them and her hand on her parasol, while Nanuet walks over to speak with the boy.</p><p> </p><p>Naumkeag yells again in the native tongue, "Hurry it up stupid," as turns back towards his friends and walks by Nanuet.</p><p></p><p>Nanuet sees that one of the two wheels on the handcart is partially broken and lopsided, causing Nakomo considerable difficulty in pushing it. Because of all the luggage stacked immediately before him the boy still doesn't see Nanuet, who is now only ten feet away.</p><p> </p><p>Nanuet stops and glares at Naumkeag as he walks past him. He knows that Nakomo will not remember him but he decides to take a chance and call out to him. He yells out the Yavapi word for 'cousin' as he starts walking towards him again.</p><p> </p><p>Nakomo stops and looks up. He says, "Cousin? You look very familiar, have we met before?"</p><p> </p><p>"I cannot explain Nakomo, but I truly am your cousin Nanuet. I know you don't remember me, and at some point I can explain. I never realized you might have escaped the slaughter of our people before I left. Why are you here with those hooligans?"</p><p> </p><p>"Nanuet? I was away with my human father when the other members of my elvan family were killed. I do not remember you but I was very young then. My father is now gone away. I am with these men because without family they have been named by the tribal elders as my protectors."</p><p> </p><p>Nanuet's face drops at young Nakomo's declaration that these men have become anyone's protectors. "I am very pleased to know you are safe Nakomo. Here, let me help you with your cart while we walk. I see that it is broken and you are struggling with your burden."</p><p></p><p>Nanuet takes one side of the cart and they walk towards the train platform as he continues to talk.</p><p></p><p>"Do the elders realize that your 'protectors' treat you so poorly, use you as their slave?"</p><p> </p><p>The boy says, "The Elders had to do something with me and these boys were the only ones around at all close to my age. They are really not so bad now, they treated me much worse when I was younger they....." He stops and stares at Nanuet and says, "I remember you now. You used to protect me from them."</p><p> </p><p>Nanuet smiles at the young elf's recognition of him. "Come, let’s drop these off with the others and then I have someone I would like you to meet."</p><p></p><p>Nanuet continues to help him with the luggage and brings it over to the other 4 as they wait by the train tracks.</p><p></p><p>"Where are you headed now?" Nanuet asked his young cousin.</p><p> </p><p>The six Indians eye Nanuet suspiciously as he assists the young half-elf get the luggage cart over to where they are standing. They don't say anything when the boys walks slightly away with Nanuet.</p><p></p><p>Nakomo says, "We're taking the train to Prescott. We're meeting with the Territorial Governor and a Government representative from the Office of Indian Affairs to discuss our grievances regarding the San Carlos Reservation."</p><p> </p><p>Nanuet looks puzzled for a moment. "None of the elders are going on such an important trip? You should be honored to have been chosen for such an important task."</p><p></p><p>Nanuet brings Nakomo over to Minerva. "Nakomo I would like you to meet my uh... my companion Minerva Florencia. Minerva, this is my cousin Nakomo. He is traveling to Prescott."</p><p></p><p>He smiles and says, "A pleasure to meet you Ma'am."</p><p></p><p>"None of us were chosen, the letter came addressed to the elders. But Kemo works at the General Store and sorts the incoming mail. He brought the letter to Pakesso instead. Pakesso decided that he would make a better spokesman for the tribe."</p><p> </p><p>An anger wells within Nanuet, but only Minerva can tell, anyone else looking at him would not see the emotion. He steadies himself before speaking.</p><p></p><p>"These fools have no idea what they are doing. Nakomo, if I confront them will you stand by what you have just told me?"</p><p> </p><p>He replies, "They....they will beat me. I should not have told you."</p><p></p><p>As they are speaking the northbound train pulls into the station. Passengers begin to exit and porters open the baggage cars to unload.</p><p></p><p>Minerva smiles brightly and begins to extend her hand to express her pleasure at making his acquaintance, But it is obvious that Nakomo is quite distressed, fear evident in every tense muscle of his body as he continued to address Nanuet.</p><p></p><p>Pakesso yells over to Nakomo, "Hey half-wit, stop bothering that Indian and help get that luggage on board."</p><p></p><p>Minerva does not know what they are discussing but recognizes the cold anger coiled tightly within Nanuet, ready to spring out and strike at any moment. She places her hand on her lovers shoulder in a calming gesture and replies evenly to the Indian boy. "Nakomo, do not be afraid. We will not allow you to come to harm."</p><p></p><p>As she says this one of the apache men yells, to the boy in a derogatory manner. The young priestess stiffens and stops talking she stands tall and marches over to the bully with a cold fire burning in her eyes she demands. "I am the Priestess Minerva Garcia Florencia and I would like to know who you are that you should presume to speak to another in such a manner."</p><p> </p><p>As they are speaking the northbound train pulls into the station. Passengers begin to exit and porters open the baggage cars to unload.</p><p></p><p>"Nakomo, you don't need to be afraid of them, I will not let them treat you like that." Nanuet stands with Nokoma remaining away from the other Indians. He watches the situation with Minerva carefully.</p><p> </p><p>Pakesso orders Naumkeag and Nesenkeag to, "Go get the kid." The two brothers walk over towards Nanuet, Minerva, and Nakomo. Naumkeag is surprisingly polite, as he addresses Minerva and Nanuet in English, "Sir, Ma'am, I apologize for the youngster's intruding upon your company." Nesenkeag adds to Nanuet, "And thank you sir for your assistance with the cart, we will help the boy from here."</p><p> </p><p>Nanuet wears a shocked expression on his face as Naumkeag speaks in polite, flawless English. "Oh, he is no trouble, no trouble at all. I am glad to be of assistance, but curious to know why you or none of your companions were helping since he is obviously carrying all of your luggage. Also, why do your friends refer to him as a half-wit? He seems like quite a remarkable young man to me. I mean he must be if he has been sent by the elders to meet with the territorial governor at his young age!"</p><p></p><p>The expressions on the faces of both Indian brothers immediately change to anger. Naumkeag grabs Nakomo harshly by the arm and exclaims in the Yavapai language "Stupid fool, what have you been telling this stranger?" Nesenkeag tells Nanuet in English, "The boy is my responsibility you just mind your own business. This is a tribal matter."</p><p> </p><p>Nanuet responds in Yavapi, "I understand it is a tribal matter, but I don't understand how you were chosen to represent the tribe. Take your hand off my cousin, he is not property and should be treated better!" Nanuet's voice rises in anger towards the end of his statement.</p><p> </p><p>"Cousin?" Nesenkeag replies in the native tounge. "All of his elvan family were killed, how could you be his cousin?"</p><p></p><p>Nakomo declares, "He is, I remember him. He went away a long time ago and was not with the family when they were attacked." </p><p></p><p>Naumkeag gestures towards Minerva and states in the Yavapi tongue, "And you associate with the stinking humans instead of your own people, no wonder you stand up for this half-blood. You are not fit to call yourself one of our tribe." </p><p></p><p>The angry posturing has caught the attention of the other four elves who start to walk in that direction.</p><p> </p><p>Nanuet speaks in English so that Minerva can understand. "You will regret that you said that. I am more fit to be a Yavapi than you will ever be. What did you tell the elders you were doing when you left for your little journey here? Don't you think the territorial governor will expect more than a few ruffians showing up at his doorstep?"</p><p> </p><p>Pakesso arrives and walks directly between Nanuet and Nasenkeag, stating in English "What transpires here?"</p><p></p><p>Nasenkeag gestures to Nakomo and says, "The boy claims this is his cousin. The boy also told him about our planned visit to Prescott." </p><p></p><p>Pakesso walks directly up to Nanuet's face, getting within inches of him. He states, "I am not sure what lies the child told you, but my advice to you is that you mind your own business. There are six of us and but one of you."</p><p> </p><p>"You can try and bully me all you want Pakesso, I remember you even if you don't remember me. What you are about to do is wrong, you put our tribe in jeopardy. And the way you treat this boy is wrong. He should not be punished by you because of his parent's decisions. He chooses the way of the elf, you should embrace him and protect him, not bully him."</p><p> </p><p>Pakesso replies, "We do protect him, in fact the elders have named us as his protectors. You are sticking you nose into matters that are none of your concern." </p><p></p><p>Naumkeag points out to Pakesso that the northbound train is now boarding. Pakesso tells him companions, "Each of you grab your own luggage and get on the train. We can waste no further time with these people. Naumkeag still has his hand gripped around Nakomo's arm as he reaches for a saddlebag with the other arm.</p><p> </p><p>"Let him go." Nanuet says calmly. "Just because the elders have named you his protectors does not mean that you are doing the task. If they knew how you were treating him you would regret it!"</p><p> </p><p>"You are quite mistaken," Minerva says, the fury evident in her expression. "There are two of us... and Nakomo is coming with us." Minerva says blocking his path.</p><p> </p><p>Naumkeag says, "Out of my way woman I have a train to catch". He continues to walk forward, his hand still gripped on Nakomo, despite Minerva being in his path. She continues to hold her ground and he swings up his saddlebag at her to knock her out of his way.</p><p> </p><p>Minerva steps back to avoid being hit with the bag. Furious at being assaulted she says a quick prayer before plowing her fist into the man's face.</p><p> </p><p>"Oh no!" Nanuet exclaims, concerned with Minerva's display of violence. He takes his place beside her waiting to react.</p><p> </p><p>Naumkeag is struck squarely in the face by Minerva. He just stands there, shocked by her assault, while still holding onto his saddlebag with one hand and the boy with the other.</p><p></p><p>The confrontation has attracted the attention of a man fifty feet away who is wearing a badge. The man starts to hurrying in their direction. Pakesso says the Apache phrase for "White Man's Law" while gesturing in the direction of the approaching Deputy Sheriff.</p><p> </p><p>A pained look comes over Nanuet's face as he moves to get between Minerva and Naumkeag. "Minerva, you must stop! I am angry too but violence will solve nothing. Now the law will be involved."</p><p> </p><p>"Sheriff! Sheriff! Por Favor, Help me!" Minerva yells as she points accusingly at Naumkeag. "This heathen had the audacity to attack me with his saddle bag!"</p><p> </p><p>Naumkeag had remained motionless and speechless, almost like a statue, from the moment that Minerva had struck him. She sees his eyes cross and he then collapses downward onto the train platform, also knocking Nakomo to the ground and falling atop of the boy. The boy attempts to push the unconscious Indian off of him as the Deputy Sheriff approaches.</p><p></p><p>"What is the problem?" the human with the badge exclaims.</p><p></p><p>Pakesso steps forward and states, "No problem Sir, other than my friend," gesturing to Naumkeag, "...not being able to hold his alcohol. We will be boarding the train now and leaving your county. You will have no further difficulties from us."</p><p> </p><p>Nanuet wears an expression of shock on his face as he looks back and forth at Minerva's fist and Naumkeag lying on the ground. He leans over and helps Pakesso to his feet and nods to what he is saying to the sheriff.</p><p> </p><p>Nasenkeag helps carry his brother onto the train while the others gather up all of their luggage. The Deputy continues to closely watch then all. Pakesso helps up Nakomo and then hands him over to one of the Western Apaches in the group who Nanuet does not know. </p><p></p><p>When Pakesso sees that Nanuet and Minvera are also planning to board the same train he softly states to Nanuet, "You should go to the other passenger car. It is best that my friend not see her when he wakes up. That could lead to more trouble."</p><p> </p><p>Minerva looks at Nanuet and sees him scowling his disapproval at her action. She momentarily lowers her head and hides her hands behind her back to rub her sore knuckles.</p><p></p><p>She takes the Indian’s cue and does not dispute his story, but she is unable to disguise the feeling of satisfaction or the smug look on her face as she boards the train. She looks back when she hears Pakessos warning, "Perhaps, when your friend awakens he will show more respect in the presence of a lady of the Cloth," she says with a haughty air.</p><p></p><p>"Nakomo, you can come with us. You don't need to stay with them. What they are doing is wrong. Once they are discovered the elders will be very displeased with what they have done. Come with us."</p><p> </p><p>Nakomo says, "Go with you? I barely know you. And if I leave the reservation how will my father know where to find me when he gets out of prison."</p><p> </p><p>"We can sort all of that out. I will not make the decision for you, but I will give you an option. Those others are nothing but trouble. You can do better than that, make your elders proud."</p><p> </p><p>Nakomo walks away with Nanuet until he is a bit away from the others. He stands firm and states loud enough for the others to hear. "I will make the elders proud. I am on a mission for the elders of great importance to our tribe. He then lowers his voice to a whisper and adds, "That's why I have to go with these men now, otherwise it could be the ruin of all Yavapai."</p><p> </p><p>Nanuet nods and says in a return whisper, "Then go and make me proud cousin. If you ever need my help I am now living in Promise City. Please come for a visit, I will be very interested to hear how this trip goes for you and our people."</p><p> </p><p>"Thank you," Nakomo states. He then returns to the other Indians, two of whom are busy helping their unconscious friend into a seat on the train while the other three help stow away their luggage in the baggage car.</p><p></p><p>Nanuet turns to Minerva. "Well I'd preach to you about patience, but I'm afraid you'd punch my lights out too! That was one heck of a punch, you pack a wallop!"</p><p></p><p>Minerva turns to Nanuet looking rather indignant about his remark, "I certainly hope that you are not condoning his abhorrent behavior! He is naught more than a bully, and there is only one way to handle a bully. Had you behaved in a like manner I would have treated you with equal distain, but you would never have behaved so abominably, You are a good and kind man and it is not in your nature behave so. That is why I love you so much!" she says placing her hand on his cheek and tenderly kissing him.</p><p> </p><p>Minerva and Nanuet settle into their seats in their passenger car while the other Indians are in the second car. The journey northward is uneventful, with stops at most of the smaller towns along the way.</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="orchid blossom, post: 2873085, member: 12815"] [SIZE=3]Old Acquaintences[/SIZE] The ride between Promise City and Tombstone is a familiar one for both of them and today's journey proves to be less problem filled than some of those trips before. About half-way there they cross paths with the Wells Fargo Stage, returning to Promise City, with Chuck Nevers tipping his hat towards the couple. Nanuet cringes as they reach the spot where he had Chester had been ambushed and captured two months earlier but today there are no problems at that section of roadway. They arrive in Tombstone at approximately 4:30 P.M. Nanuet and Minerva make their way over to the train station and purchase tickets to Flagstaff before securing a hotel room for the night. As they make their way to the hotel Luna glides down and lands on Minerva shoulder. "Buenas Tardes, Luna." she says scratching her affectionately between the shoulder blades. "Where have you left Maska?" Nanuet concentrates to see if he can sense Maska's presence. He can sense that she is nearby but most likely hunting. "Maska's around, she is trying to locate her supper I believe." "Let us find the hotel that we stayed at during our previous visit. I have some rather fond memories of their tub," she laughs. Nanuet and Minerva stop at the O.K. Corral to board their horses for the next several days. They then make their way up to the Grand Hotel which is part of and adjacent to Big Nose Kate's Restaurant, the finest eating establishment in town. The clerk waits on them and gives them a key to an available room, which turns out to be the same room that they stayed in during their previous trip in April. "Well at least we know the tub doesn't leak," Nanuet says with a wink and some mild blushing. They enjoy a nice meal at the restaurant, both consuming a bit too much alcohol and retire to the room to enjoy each other's company. Minerva stops and turns Nanuet to face her before they enter the room. She wraps her arms around him and kisses him passionately; she pulls back and plays with the tie of his vest. "Do you remember what you said the last time that we were here, Mi Amor?" He opens the door to the room and it is a repeat of the scene from their last visit to Big Nose Kate’s. Flower petals are strewn about the room on the bed and in the fragrant steaming bath. Nanuet's face cracks with a wide grin as he sees the room decorated as it had been not so long ago. He thinks back to what he said the last time the room was decked out in the same fashion and blushes. "I know this will probably get me in trouble but I admit I do not remember what I said exactly, although I can assure you I meant what I said." he says stumbling over the words trying to avoid Minerva’s gaze. Minerva laughs at his discomfort. "You told me that the 'next time' I could take care of everything! Do you not remember charging by me like a crazed bull to get to the desk clerk the last time we visited? Now it is my turn and I shall take care of everything," she says pushing him into the room with her body and kicking the door closed behind her with her foot while she works on removing his vest. The awkwardness he was feeling at not being able to remember vanishes as quickly as it had come. He slips out of the vest with Minerva's help and returns the passionate kiss she had given him earlier. He nuzzled her gently and then lifted her easily off her feet. Minerva laughs. "I am the one who is supposed to take care of everything," she says wiggling out of his arms. She quickly removes her garments and effortlessly picks up Nanuet and slips him into the tub. She quickly climbs in after him. Nanuet is shocked for a moment as Minerva scoops him off his feet. He doesn't struggle, but laughs as she slips him into the tub and smiles as she joins him. "Minerva you never cease to amaze me. Your beauty, your strength, your brilliance. I love you Miss Florencia, more and more each day." "As I do you. Now you just relax." She says picking up the cloth and soaping it up. "I shall take care of everything." Nanuet had never been in a situation quite like the one he was in now, but then again he had learned that Minerva would introduce him to many new experiences. He did his best to relax and allowed Minerva to take care of him. The following morning Minerva places Luna in her cage and makes her way to the train station with Nanuet. Monday, May 15th, 1882, 10:30 A.M. Purchasing tickets for the train to Flagstaff proves to be easy but boarding the trains becomes more difficult as the train’s conductor insists that the wire cage housing Luna must be placed in the baggage car. Minerva adamantly refuses and both the Tombstone Depot Manager and train’s engineer become involved in the discussion. Concessions are only made due to Minerva being a priestess on official church business, so the end result is that Luna is allowed to travel with them and only provided that she does not annoy any of the other passengers. Minerva assures them that the owl will not be any trouble. At 12:45 P.M. the train they are riding on stops at its destination at the train depot, which services the adjacent communities of Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tempe. Nanuet and Minerva have a little more than a two-hour before the northbound train to Prescott and Flagstaff departs. "Well it seems like we have a couple hours before we leave again, shall we check out this town, perhaps get something to eat? Maybe you can let Luna stretch her wings if she need to." "Si, that is a fine idea. Let us get you some lunch!" she says looking around for a likely spot to procure a meal. They travel a short distance from the train depot to the Cactus Flower restaurant. The specialty of the day is barbequed beef ribs, roast corn on the cob and a wheat bread with strawberry jam. Nanuet and Minerva eat their fill, and Nanuet procures some extra food to bring with them. After that they wander around a little bit keeping fairly close to the train station so that they are not late for their departure. At around 2:15 P.M. they are still waiting for the outbound train north to pull into the station for the departure at five minutes before 3:00. Nanuet and Minerva are just sitting around minding their own business when Nanuet spots trouble. A group of six male Indians are approaching from down the street. All six are attired in standard western garb, leather boots, wool/cotton blend pants, cotton work shirts and leather vests or coats. Rather than cowboy hats they are all wearing patterned cotton bandanas across their heads, the pattern being a common one worn by the Western Apache. That these men are trouble isn't just a guess, Nanuet knows it for a fact, as he recognizes four of them. One universal commonality of nearly all races is that there are bullies who prey upon the weak. That was the case with Nanuet's people as well. As a teenager he and other loners were always picked on by this older pair of Yavapai brothers, Naumkeag and Nesenkeag. The problem was exacerbated when the white men combined the tribe with the Western Apache and those boys found kindred spirits with a pair of Apache bullies named Kokokehas and Pakesso, with Pakesso becoming the leader of the pack. Nanuet reflects back on the quartet. At least none of them are related to him, so Kajika's spell will prevent them from remembering him. Nanuet had always tried to avoid them, but stood up to them whenever they picked on his cousin Nakomo. Nakomo was a skinny little half-elf, the result of a union between Nanuet's aunt and a human tracker. Last he heard these men were still living on the reservation near San Carlos, approximately ninety miles east of where they are now. Obviously that was no longer the case. Minerva can sense that Nanuet is unsettled when the group of elves comes into view. He glares at them but doesn't move, just keeping an eye on them as they approach. The six approach and glare at Nanuet and Minerva. Pakesso gives Minerva a lecherous look and then whispers something to the Indian beside him, who Nanuet doesn't know. They continue past for around thirty feet and then stop at another bench at the train depot, with Pakesso continuing to glare at Minerva. Nanuet stands and paces then stares right back at Pakesso. Pakesso stops staring. After around ten minutes one of the Indians takes out a pocketwatch and says something to the others. Naumkeag says in the Apache language loud enough for Nanuet to hear, "He better hurry up or we'll miss the train. I'll see what's keeping him." Naumkeag walks back the way they had come, walking by Nanuet and Minerva, and starts to head down the street. He apparently then sees who he is looking for as he stops and yells in the Yavapai language, "Hurry up you slow-witted fool, you're about to made us late." Nanuet glances down the street and sees an Indian boy in Yavapai clothing pushing an overloaded handcart filled with well-worn luggage and horse saddlebags. As he gets closer Nanuet recognizes the boy as being his half-elf cousin Nakomo. Nanuet turns to Minerva and says, "I'll be right back, please stay here." Nanuet walks quickly forward happy to see his cousin and at the same time irate to see that he was still the target of these ruffians. Minerva, although she cannot speak the language, recognizes the posturing of bullies. She keeps an eye on them and her hand on her parasol, while Nanuet walks over to speak with the boy. Naumkeag yells again in the native tongue, "Hurry it up stupid," as turns back towards his friends and walks by Nanuet. Nanuet sees that one of the two wheels on the handcart is partially broken and lopsided, causing Nakomo considerable difficulty in pushing it. Because of all the luggage stacked immediately before him the boy still doesn't see Nanuet, who is now only ten feet away. Nanuet stops and glares at Naumkeag as he walks past him. He knows that Nakomo will not remember him but he decides to take a chance and call out to him. He yells out the Yavapi word for 'cousin' as he starts walking towards him again. Nakomo stops and looks up. He says, "Cousin? You look very familiar, have we met before?" "I cannot explain Nakomo, but I truly am your cousin Nanuet. I know you don't remember me, and at some point I can explain. I never realized you might have escaped the slaughter of our people before I left. Why are you here with those hooligans?" "Nanuet? I was away with my human father when the other members of my elvan family were killed. I do not remember you but I was very young then. My father is now gone away. I am with these men because without family they have been named by the tribal elders as my protectors." Nanuet's face drops at young Nakomo's declaration that these men have become anyone's protectors. "I am very pleased to know you are safe Nakomo. Here, let me help you with your cart while we walk. I see that it is broken and you are struggling with your burden." Nanuet takes one side of the cart and they walk towards the train platform as he continues to talk. "Do the elders realize that your 'protectors' treat you so poorly, use you as their slave?" The boy says, "The Elders had to do something with me and these boys were the only ones around at all close to my age. They are really not so bad now, they treated me much worse when I was younger they....." He stops and stares at Nanuet and says, "I remember you now. You used to protect me from them." Nanuet smiles at the young elf's recognition of him. "Come, let’s drop these off with the others and then I have someone I would like you to meet." Nanuet continues to help him with the luggage and brings it over to the other 4 as they wait by the train tracks. "Where are you headed now?" Nanuet asked his young cousin. The six Indians eye Nanuet suspiciously as he assists the young half-elf get the luggage cart over to where they are standing. They don't say anything when the boys walks slightly away with Nanuet. Nakomo says, "We're taking the train to Prescott. We're meeting with the Territorial Governor and a Government representative from the Office of Indian Affairs to discuss our grievances regarding the San Carlos Reservation." Nanuet looks puzzled for a moment. "None of the elders are going on such an important trip? You should be honored to have been chosen for such an important task." Nanuet brings Nakomo over to Minerva. "Nakomo I would like you to meet my uh... my companion Minerva Florencia. Minerva, this is my cousin Nakomo. He is traveling to Prescott." He smiles and says, "A pleasure to meet you Ma'am." "None of us were chosen, the letter came addressed to the elders. But Kemo works at the General Store and sorts the incoming mail. He brought the letter to Pakesso instead. Pakesso decided that he would make a better spokesman for the tribe." An anger wells within Nanuet, but only Minerva can tell, anyone else looking at him would not see the emotion. He steadies himself before speaking. "These fools have no idea what they are doing. Nakomo, if I confront them will you stand by what you have just told me?" He replies, "They....they will beat me. I should not have told you." As they are speaking the northbound train pulls into the station. Passengers begin to exit and porters open the baggage cars to unload. Minerva smiles brightly and begins to extend her hand to express her pleasure at making his acquaintance, But it is obvious that Nakomo is quite distressed, fear evident in every tense muscle of his body as he continued to address Nanuet. Pakesso yells over to Nakomo, "Hey half-wit, stop bothering that Indian and help get that luggage on board." Minerva does not know what they are discussing but recognizes the cold anger coiled tightly within Nanuet, ready to spring out and strike at any moment. She places her hand on her lovers shoulder in a calming gesture and replies evenly to the Indian boy. "Nakomo, do not be afraid. We will not allow you to come to harm." As she says this one of the apache men yells, to the boy in a derogatory manner. The young priestess stiffens and stops talking she stands tall and marches over to the bully with a cold fire burning in her eyes she demands. "I am the Priestess Minerva Garcia Florencia and I would like to know who you are that you should presume to speak to another in such a manner." As they are speaking the northbound train pulls into the station. Passengers begin to exit and porters open the baggage cars to unload. "Nakomo, you don't need to be afraid of them, I will not let them treat you like that." Nanuet stands with Nokoma remaining away from the other Indians. He watches the situation with Minerva carefully. Pakesso orders Naumkeag and Nesenkeag to, "Go get the kid." The two brothers walk over towards Nanuet, Minerva, and Nakomo. Naumkeag is surprisingly polite, as he addresses Minerva and Nanuet in English, "Sir, Ma'am, I apologize for the youngster's intruding upon your company." Nesenkeag adds to Nanuet, "And thank you sir for your assistance with the cart, we will help the boy from here." Nanuet wears a shocked expression on his face as Naumkeag speaks in polite, flawless English. "Oh, he is no trouble, no trouble at all. I am glad to be of assistance, but curious to know why you or none of your companions were helping since he is obviously carrying all of your luggage. Also, why do your friends refer to him as a half-wit? He seems like quite a remarkable young man to me. I mean he must be if he has been sent by the elders to meet with the territorial governor at his young age!" The expressions on the faces of both Indian brothers immediately change to anger. Naumkeag grabs Nakomo harshly by the arm and exclaims in the Yavapai language "Stupid fool, what have you been telling this stranger?" Nesenkeag tells Nanuet in English, "The boy is my responsibility you just mind your own business. This is a tribal matter." Nanuet responds in Yavapi, "I understand it is a tribal matter, but I don't understand how you were chosen to represent the tribe. Take your hand off my cousin, he is not property and should be treated better!" Nanuet's voice rises in anger towards the end of his statement. "Cousin?" Nesenkeag replies in the native tounge. "All of his elvan family were killed, how could you be his cousin?" Nakomo declares, "He is, I remember him. He went away a long time ago and was not with the family when they were attacked." Naumkeag gestures towards Minerva and states in the Yavapi tongue, "And you associate with the stinking humans instead of your own people, no wonder you stand up for this half-blood. You are not fit to call yourself one of our tribe." The angry posturing has caught the attention of the other four elves who start to walk in that direction. Nanuet speaks in English so that Minerva can understand. "You will regret that you said that. I am more fit to be a Yavapi than you will ever be. What did you tell the elders you were doing when you left for your little journey here? Don't you think the territorial governor will expect more than a few ruffians showing up at his doorstep?" Pakesso arrives and walks directly between Nanuet and Nasenkeag, stating in English "What transpires here?" Nasenkeag gestures to Nakomo and says, "The boy claims this is his cousin. The boy also told him about our planned visit to Prescott." Pakesso walks directly up to Nanuet's face, getting within inches of him. He states, "I am not sure what lies the child told you, but my advice to you is that you mind your own business. There are six of us and but one of you." "You can try and bully me all you want Pakesso, I remember you even if you don't remember me. What you are about to do is wrong, you put our tribe in jeopardy. And the way you treat this boy is wrong. He should not be punished by you because of his parent's decisions. He chooses the way of the elf, you should embrace him and protect him, not bully him." Pakesso replies, "We do protect him, in fact the elders have named us as his protectors. You are sticking you nose into matters that are none of your concern." Naumkeag points out to Pakesso that the northbound train is now boarding. Pakesso tells him companions, "Each of you grab your own luggage and get on the train. We can waste no further time with these people. Naumkeag still has his hand gripped around Nakomo's arm as he reaches for a saddlebag with the other arm. "Let him go." Nanuet says calmly. "Just because the elders have named you his protectors does not mean that you are doing the task. If they knew how you were treating him you would regret it!" "You are quite mistaken," Minerva says, the fury evident in her expression. "There are two of us... and Nakomo is coming with us." Minerva says blocking his path. Naumkeag says, "Out of my way woman I have a train to catch". He continues to walk forward, his hand still gripped on Nakomo, despite Minerva being in his path. She continues to hold her ground and he swings up his saddlebag at her to knock her out of his way. Minerva steps back to avoid being hit with the bag. Furious at being assaulted she says a quick prayer before plowing her fist into the man's face. "Oh no!" Nanuet exclaims, concerned with Minerva's display of violence. He takes his place beside her waiting to react. Naumkeag is struck squarely in the face by Minerva. He just stands there, shocked by her assault, while still holding onto his saddlebag with one hand and the boy with the other. The confrontation has attracted the attention of a man fifty feet away who is wearing a badge. The man starts to hurrying in their direction. Pakesso says the Apache phrase for "White Man's Law" while gesturing in the direction of the approaching Deputy Sheriff. A pained look comes over Nanuet's face as he moves to get between Minerva and Naumkeag. "Minerva, you must stop! I am angry too but violence will solve nothing. Now the law will be involved." "Sheriff! Sheriff! Por Favor, Help me!" Minerva yells as she points accusingly at Naumkeag. "This heathen had the audacity to attack me with his saddle bag!" Naumkeag had remained motionless and speechless, almost like a statue, from the moment that Minerva had struck him. She sees his eyes cross and he then collapses downward onto the train platform, also knocking Nakomo to the ground and falling atop of the boy. The boy attempts to push the unconscious Indian off of him as the Deputy Sheriff approaches. "What is the problem?" the human with the badge exclaims. Pakesso steps forward and states, "No problem Sir, other than my friend," gesturing to Naumkeag, "...not being able to hold his alcohol. We will be boarding the train now and leaving your county. You will have no further difficulties from us." Nanuet wears an expression of shock on his face as he looks back and forth at Minerva's fist and Naumkeag lying on the ground. He leans over and helps Pakesso to his feet and nods to what he is saying to the sheriff. Nasenkeag helps carry his brother onto the train while the others gather up all of their luggage. The Deputy continues to closely watch then all. Pakesso helps up Nakomo and then hands him over to one of the Western Apaches in the group who Nanuet does not know. When Pakesso sees that Nanuet and Minvera are also planning to board the same train he softly states to Nanuet, "You should go to the other passenger car. It is best that my friend not see her when he wakes up. That could lead to more trouble." Minerva looks at Nanuet and sees him scowling his disapproval at her action. She momentarily lowers her head and hides her hands behind her back to rub her sore knuckles. She takes the Indian’s cue and does not dispute his story, but she is unable to disguise the feeling of satisfaction or the smug look on her face as she boards the train. She looks back when she hears Pakessos warning, "Perhaps, when your friend awakens he will show more respect in the presence of a lady of the Cloth," she says with a haughty air. "Nakomo, you can come with us. You don't need to stay with them. What they are doing is wrong. Once they are discovered the elders will be very displeased with what they have done. Come with us." Nakomo says, "Go with you? I barely know you. And if I leave the reservation how will my father know where to find me when he gets out of prison." "We can sort all of that out. I will not make the decision for you, but I will give you an option. Those others are nothing but trouble. You can do better than that, make your elders proud." Nakomo walks away with Nanuet until he is a bit away from the others. He stands firm and states loud enough for the others to hear. "I will make the elders proud. I am on a mission for the elders of great importance to our tribe. He then lowers his voice to a whisper and adds, "That's why I have to go with these men now, otherwise it could be the ruin of all Yavapai." Nanuet nods and says in a return whisper, "Then go and make me proud cousin. If you ever need my help I am now living in Promise City. Please come for a visit, I will be very interested to hear how this trip goes for you and our people." "Thank you," Nakomo states. He then returns to the other Indians, two of whom are busy helping their unconscious friend into a seat on the train while the other three help stow away their luggage in the baggage car. Nanuet turns to Minerva. "Well I'd preach to you about patience, but I'm afraid you'd punch my lights out too! That was one heck of a punch, you pack a wallop!" Minerva turns to Nanuet looking rather indignant about his remark, "I certainly hope that you are not condoning his abhorrent behavior! He is naught more than a bully, and there is only one way to handle a bully. Had you behaved in a like manner I would have treated you with equal distain, but you would never have behaved so abominably, You are a good and kind man and it is not in your nature behave so. That is why I love you so much!" she says placing her hand on his cheek and tenderly kissing him. Minerva and Nanuet settle into their seats in their passenger car while the other Indians are in the second car. The journey northward is uneventful, with stops at most of the smaller towns along the way. [/QUOTE]
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"Here There Be Vampires" A Promise City, Arizona Story Hour
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