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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: 2881135" data-attributes="member: 12815"><p><span style="font-size: 12px">Lessons</span></p><p></p><p>The train then pulls into Prescott, the capital of the Arizona Territory and one of the larger cities. Most of the passengers disembark at this point, including the group of Indians who head to the baggage car for their possessions. There is an hour long layover before the train continues northward, the next stop being the small logging town of Flagstaff.</p><p> </p><p>Minerva and Nanuet disembark to stretch their legs before continuing their journey. Minerva looks around hoping to catch a glimpse of Nakomo and reassure herself that he is alright.</p><p> </p><p>She sees that Nakomo has run into the train depot, but rather than going alone one of the Western Apache Indians has accompanied him. She gets close enough to hear them asking a porter about borrowing another cart to put their luggage on.</p><p> </p><p>The Indians head off into the town of Prescott. Nanuet and Minerva stay near the train depot. A new group of northbound passengers arrive, including a group of twenty-nine United States Army soldiers. They soldiers load several wood and metal trunks that appear to be quite heavy into the baggage car. Four armed soldiers go into the baggage car and the doors to that car are then closed and locked with padlocks.</p><p></p><p>The conductor calls for all to get aboard. Nanuet decides it best to avoid the passenger car with the soldiers and sit in the other one instead. The train heads off to the northeast. It travels for an hour and then begins to slow down shortly after passing through the small depot town of Clarkdale.</p><p></p><p>Looking out the window Nanuet and Minerva see the reason for the delay, as they are approaching the bridge that crosses the Big Chino River. A fallen tree has washed down the river and is lodged against the bridge. Some of its limbs are sticking up through the bridge rails and is partially blocking the track ahead. The train comes to a complete halt prior to the bridge.</p><p></p><p>The Lieutenant leading the soldiers assumes the worst, yelling to his men that that the tree barricade was possibly put there to stop the train. He orders all of the passengers to either lie down in their seats or onto the floor. He then orders six men to remain in each of the two passenger cars, spacing them three per side on the front, middle and end of each car, and sends four more to take positions up on the roof of the baggage car.</p><p></p><p>The Lieutenant then exits with train with his remaining eight troops and they approach the bridge. The officer and the two men flanking him have their revolvers out while the remaining five men are holding their rifles and watching the surrounding terrain.</p><p> </p><p>"Now what?" Minerva whispers to Nanuet while they crouch down in their seat as instructed. She opens Luna's cage, takes her out and cradles her in her arm while gripping her pistol with her other arm. She peeks out the window to try and see what is going on.</p><p> </p><p>The soldiers manage to dislodge the tree limbs from the bridge and return to the train without incident. The conductor in the passenger car wipes some sweat off of his brow and comments out loud, “Whew…looks like it was just a stuck tree all along.” The train starts up again and crosses the bridge.</p><p></p><p>As they travel through the monotonous land Minerva stares listlessly out of the window, no longer seeing the stunted scrub pine, dying sagebrush or the colorless rocks slide by. The train rounds yet another bend of what Minerva assumes will only be more flat, lifeless landscape, when they suddenly find themselves in the town of Sedona. Its stark contrast to the barren land hits her like a splash of icy water causing her to inhale sharply as she is jarred from her bored reverie. A soft hiss escapes her lips as her breath is stolen away by the awe inspiring sight of the blood red cliffs rising out of the ground around her. The colors are so full of life and vitality that she is sure that this tapestry could only have been woven by the hand of a great god. Momentarily speechless, she fumbles behind her in search of Nanuet's arm and gently shakes him awake without taking her eyes from the glorious view. "Look, Mi Amor, Have you ever beheld such unearthly beauty? What god is it, I wonder, that thinks so highly of man that he would bestow such a wondrous gift?" she whispers.</p><p></p><p>They disembark from the train to say a prayer of thanksgiving to whatever god or gods that would create such splendor upon the earth before continuing on their journey to Flagstaff.</p><p></p><p>The train travels another twenty-five miles northeast, with a short stop at the town of Sedona. It then goes north for another twenty-five miles to the town of Flagstaff. Minerva and Nanuet exit the train.</p><p></p><p>They discover that there isn’t much of a town as of yet, Flagstaff being a logging town. Most of the train depot consists of platforms with recently cut timber waiting to be loaded upon a freight train at some point in the near future.</p><p></p><p>The center of the town square features a huge flagpole flying an American flag. A wooden plaque beside it states that the flagstaff was erected on that spot on July 4, 1876 to celebrate the nation’s Centennial.</p><p></p><p>The town square consists of only a dozen buildings, namely: Two sawmills, three large barracks/bunkhouses for the loggers, two logging company offices, one fancy residence belonging to the owner of a logging company, a combination General Store/Post Office, a barn/corral/stable, a saloon, and a newly constructed Greek/Roman church.</p><p></p><p>They finally arrive in Flagstaff, sweaty and tired. A feeling of relief washes over Minerva as they step off the train. "Thank the gods we have arrived unmolested," she prays.</p><p></p><p>The priestess looks around the infant town and immediately spots the church among the few buildings. She turns to Nanuet and takes his hand. "Let us go and make our presence known to the Bishop and then we shall find a place to refresh ourselves and relax over a warm meal. We can pick up our bags at the station later."</p><p></p><p>She opens the door to Luna's cage releasing her from her confinement before strolling over to the church on Nanuet's arm.</p><p> </p><p>They enter the building to see Bishop Costas Papandraus, the Deputy Administrator of the Greek/Roman Church in the Arizona, New Mexico, Wyoming and Utah Territories. He is seated in the front pew of the church talking to a female dwarf who is the equivalent of age thirty and a male human of around eighteen.</p><p> </p><p>Minerva walks toward them and waits patiently until they have finished their conversation before addressing the bishop.</p><p></p><p>"Buena Dias your Excellency." She Curtseys. "I am the Priestess Minerva Garcia Florencia, representative of the Church of Olympus in Promise City and this is my escort Senor Nanuet who is also learning the ways of the gods."</p><p> </p><p>Nanuet bows awkwardly in respect and keeps himself a step behind Minerva, feeling out of place among the church officials.</p><p> </p><p>"Your Excellency? Relax Minerva, you're among friends. Please address me as Costas. And Nanuet, it is good to see you again as well. Come over here and I'll introduce you to the others."</p><p></p><p>He gestures to the dwarf. She is wearing priest’s robes, her hair tied back in a long braid and her beard neatly combed and cropped. Bishop Papandraus states, "This is Hilldi Argyle MacTavish. Like yourself, she is new to the clergy. She will be running a church in the town of Kingman, around one hundred miles west of here."</p><p></p><p>He then gestures to the man and says, "This is Silas Oraibi Barnes. He has been named the priest of this church. I consecrated this structure on Sunday, simultaneous to Trisus doing the same at your own church Minerva. I am sorry that I could not be there but I find that my duties have me spread rather thin, supervising four Territories.</p><p></p><p>I must say, you made very good time getting here, we weren't expecting you until tomorrow."</p><p> </p><p>Minerva shakes hands all around and congratulates the priests on their posts, wishing them well. "May the gods be merciful," she says and turns her attention to the Bishop. "Si, Costas. Things appear quiet in Promise City at the moment and I was quite curious to know why you would send for me so we left almost immediately after receiving your message.</p><p> </p><p>He replies, "I brought you here for a few days of training. My schedule is so tight that I thought it best to train the three of you simultaneously while I was here in the territory."</p><p></p><p>He then glances towards Nanuet and says, "If memory serves you are also a novice priest. I realize that you are not a follower of the same deities, but some of what I will be teaching these three is universal to most religions. You are welcome to participate with us if you wish."</p><p> </p><p>Nanuet meekly steps forward. "Yes, I am a novice priest and have had discussions with Minerva about broadening my horizons and learning about your religion. I am honored you would allow me to participate."</p><p> </p><p>"Oh, this is wonderful!" Minerva beams. "When shall we begin? Nanuet and I just arrived a few minutes ago and need to eat and freshened up first. We should collect our luggage from the train station and settle in first also. Is there a hotel that would be suitable?"</p><p> </p><p>Priest Barnes says, "A room has been built in the back of this structure for myself to live in, which I have given to you and Hilldi to stay in during this week. I had secured lodgings for myself and Costas at one of the boarding houses in town. I can get you a room there as well Nanuet."</p><p> </p><p>Nanuet looks to Minerva, a little unsure of how he should handle the situation. He then looks back to Priest Barnes and nods, "That would be perfect, thank you."</p><p> </p><p>Minerva turns to Costas and smiles. "Costas if you would be so kind as to spare me a moment, I have a private matter that I must discuss with you."</p><p></p><p>"Certainly, why don't we go into the back room while the other get to know one another better."</p><p></p><p>Once the Bishop and Priestess leave Priest Barnes turns to Nanuet and says, "Hello Nanuet....that is a Yavapai name is it not?"</p><p></p><p>Nanuet is a little surprised at the Priest's knowledge of his own tribe, but it is a pleasant surprise.</p><p></p><p>"Yes, it is a Yavapai name, how are you familiar with that may I ask?"</p><p></p><p>He reaches his hands up to the sides of his head and pulls his dark hair back, revealing slight points on the top of both of his ears. "My maternal grandparents were both half-elves, my grandfather being of the Pawnee people and my grandmother from the Hopi people. They were raised by the Hopi, as was my mother. She was raised at the Oraibi Pueblo, around fifty miles northeast of here, which is the origin of my middle name. I am familiar with all of our people in this region."</p><p></p><p>Minerva smiles encouragingly at Nanuet and follows the Bishop into the back room. She is a bit nervous about what his reaction will be to her declaration but hides it well behind her noble stance. “Costas, there is something that you must know.” She says matter-of-factly.</p><p></p><p>“Shortly after my arrival in Promise City, I was introduced to Senor Nanuet. I am not a fanciful woman Costas, but when we met, I felt connected somehow… as though the gods had ordained our meeting. I did not understand why the gods would wish this, but I chose to trust in the divine wisdom of the gods. Senor Nanuet, not being a particularly trusting fellow, was at first quite leery of my sudden presence in his life,” she smirks as she recalls his anger on the day of her arrival in Promise City. “But despite his initial resistance, we came to trust and respect one another in an extraordinarily brief span of time.”</p><p></p><p>“There was some trouble,” she says frowning in remembrance. “Senor Nanuet was critically injured and I prayed fervently to the gods not to take him from me. I have never felt that kind of fear before,” she says pressing her clenched fist to her heart. </p><p></p><p>The gods granted me a great boon…not just our gods, but Nanuet’s gods as well. They bound our magics together in an amulet that a Shaman of Nanuet’s faith had bestowed on him, allowing me to heal Nanuet’s grievous wound and save his life.</p><p></p><p>Not long after this, the gods summoned me through the veil of dreams. I found myself in a wood before a fork in a path. Now, I know that it is not unusual for the gods to ask us to choose a path,” she says stopping before him. “But this was quite unusual, as the gods had also brought the spirit of an ancient Yavapi warrior through the Veil also. He stood before the path, the path that would lead me to Nanuet, and smiling his approval of our spiritual bonding, told me the choice was mine to make. He stepped aside allowing me to find my way to Nanuet. Costas, I believe that the gods of both our pantheons desire that Nanuet and I travel the path together.”</p><p></p><p>She hesitates for a moment, screwing up her courage before continuing. She looks directly at the Bishop and stands tall, a joyous light shines in her eyes as she says, “On the eve of the Festival of Dionysus, Nanuet and I, according to the will of the gods, completed our bonding by performing the sacred ceremony of Venus. We are now joined spiritually, magically and physically, Costas. I just thought that you should know, as there are some in Promise City who would not see honor in the worship of Venus and I have no intention of hiding what the gods have ordained.</p><p> </p><p>He nods and says, "Then it is appropriate that you have brought him here. That is an unusual situation, and I appreciate your candor. I would caution you about making such declarations to others though. I am not sure how my senior Bishop would react to such knowledge and I have no doubt that Mrs. King would write him of it if she were to discover this.</p><p></p><p>This training period should be helpful to both of you. While I can personally teach the two of you various spells and clerical magics, it is through your two fellow students that you may learn even more. Both have had considerable experience with bridging two different worlds and races.</p><p></p><p>Racial and religious prejudices have been part of both of their lives. Hilldi preaches to both a human and dwarven community, but many of the dwarves have shunned her for taking on a human-worshipped deity as her primary god, although she still respects and acknowledges the dwarven and norse deities as well. Silas Oraibi Barnes may look human to you, but he is one-quarter elvan. His maternal grandmother was from the Hopi tribe. He doesn't flaunt the fact but neither does he hide it, using his middle name which is Hopi."</p><p></p><p>Minerva answers, “I have no intentions of making any unnecessary declarations to satisfy the curiosity of others, but neither will I skulk around and give credence to the beliefs of such misguided souls as Mrs. King. My behavior is deemed appropriate in the eyes of the gods and is in accordance with Their will. I will not be cowed by those who cannot accept it. Thank you for your understanding Costa." Minerva say's hugging him in relief. “If you have no objections, I would prefer to share my room with Nanuet during our stay here."</p><p></p><p>"Senor Nanuet will be quite pleased. He also has had to live in a world fraught with bigotry and is learning to overcome his misgivings. His Shaman Kajika has promised to teach me the ways of the Yavapi also."</p><p> </p><p>"Well, that would be problematic, as you will be sharing the same room with Hilldi. And it would not be safe for either of you women to stay at the boarding house. With the exception of the lumber company owner's wife the two of you are the only females in town. It is far safer that both stay here in the safety of the church."</p><p></p><p>"Si, I understand. I will stay with Hilldi. I will go now and find Nanuet. After we have eaten and I have claimed my bags from the train station, I will return. Grasias Costas. I appreciate your understanding," she says and takes her leave.</p><p></p><p>The Bishop and Priestess return to the others. Costas asks Hilldi to show Minerva to their room and asks Priest Barnes to take Nanuet over to the boarding house and get him a room there. Costas says, "While you are getting settled in I'll get some supper going for us all."</p><p></p><p>"That is much appreciated, it will not take me long to settle in as I travel with few belongings. Perhaps then I could help you with the preparation of the evening meal?"</p><p></p><p>Costas welcomes Nanuet's assistance. They have a collection of vegitables as well as two freshly skinned rabbits. Costas tells Nanuet "The congregation primarily pays their priest in food."</p><p> </p><p>"That sounds very practical, although I am not sure what they are paying you for. What services do you provide to the people that earn payments?"</p><p></p><p>"What services will Priest Barnes provide? Why healing of course. This is a logging town. Saws are dangerous tools, as are using block and tackle when swinging about large trees and logs. The richest loggers are the fastest loggers, but working fast also leads to more accidents. Having a priest right here in town rather than a railroad stop away could mean the difference between life and death, or possibly loss of limb which for a logger would be permanent unemployment."</p><p> </p><p>"Well, I never figured the clergy would provide those services, but it does make sense. It is good that those services are available and that Priest Barnes is flexible with the payment arrangements. Here, I think that should do it," Nanuet says holding up two perfectly skinned rabbits.</p><p></p><p>Minerva gathers her belongings and settles in, She claims the bed near the window and opens it to let what breeze there is waft into the room and Places Luna's cage beside it so that her feathered companion can come and go as she pleases.</p><p></p><p>As she is unpacking she chats with Hilldi. "Costas tells me that you that you have chosen to serve a mixed community. How are you faring Hilldi? Are they treating you well?"</p><p> </p><p>The dwarf replies, "The humans treat me better than my own race. Dwarven communities here in the United States tend to be male dominated. Just becoming a priest is independence enough, but to also take on the deities of other races is too much for many of my race to adapt to. But as the only Priest around, and given the number of on-the-job accidents that occur, it will only be a matter of time until they all seek my services of one form or another."</p><p></p><p>Minerva and Hilldi are soon finished her unpacking and they return to the others. The five priests sit down for dinner together. Costas says, "I suppose that one of us should say a blessing....seems to me like we are all well qualified for that task."</p><p> </p><p>“Even the poorest man is qualified to speak with the gods, but it is true that the gods have shown us special favor, Costa," she says discreetly squeezing Nanuet's hand. Let us link our hands in a circle a give thanks in unison.</p><p> </p><p>During the meal Costas outlines the tentative schedule for the next three days. Barring any interruptions from the town's congregation, he plans for ten to fourteen hour days of intense study and training. For the training the students will learn, both individually and collectively, various skills, feats and spells by which to better serve their congregations. He states that since some of them are at differing levels of instruction they may need some future instruction to better master some of these but that the initial exposure to these things will make that future training go quicker.</p><p> </p><p>After the meal has ended Nanuet and Minerva stroll through the town arm in arm. They chat excitedly about the prospect of further training that will enable them to more effectively serve their gods.</p><p></p><p>Minerva sighs as Nanuet walks her back to the church. "I do regret that we are unable to room together during our stay here, but Costas feels that it would be safer if the women board together. I told him of our relationship and that I would prefer to stay with you but, although he took it well he still insists that I should stay with Hilldie. I suppose it would be safer for Hilldie if she did not stay alone." Minerva shrugs her shoulders in resignation. "I hope that you are not angry." she says looking up at him with concern in her eyes.</p><p></p><p>Nanuet notes the concerned look in her eye and runs his fingers through her thick black hair as he reassures her. "First of all, we will not be able to stay with each other every night, I understand that. Then there is the matter of this not being your fault at all. I have no right to be mad at you, for you did nothing wrong. We will spend our time together when the moment is right. Here we should focus on the message of the Gods and the teachings of the priests."</p><p></p><p>"Gracias, Mi Amor. I am glad that you understand and are not offended. You are a wonderful man. A true gift from the gods." She pulls him into the shadow of the church and leaning up kisses him passionately before entering her room. "Dream of me. Mi Amore." she whispers.</p><p> </p><p>"I always do," he says softly as she enters her room and leaves him in the street. Even though Nanuet did not need sleep he figured it would be best to rest and be prepared for the intense days ahead.</p><p> </p><p>The new day dawns, bringing with it new challenges that tax their stamina and strength. Their time in Flagstaff flies by... Up at dawn, prayers, exercises, lectures, practice... leaving little time or desire to think about food or rest or more carnal desires.</p><p></p><p>At the close of each day Minerva falls into her bed too tired to do much more than strip off her clothing, too weary to even dream of her lover, before the sun rises again for another grueling day devoted to the gods. But although the work is arduous and she is bone tired each night, each morning she awakens strangely energized and full of anticipation of what the day will bring.</p><p></p><p>Minerva jokingly, comments to Nanuet and Hilldi that Costa is running an Olympian bootcamp of the faithful.</p><p> </p><p>After three days of intense study the five priests gather for their final breakfast together on the morning of Friday, May 19th. The train to the southwest is expected to arrive at 9:30 AM. Hilldi has prepared a fine breakfast of ham steaks, flapjacks with whipped butter, toasted bread and baked cinnamon apples. Costas says a prayer before they all begin to partake of the meal.</p><p></p><p>Once the prayer is done Nanuet stands for a moment and thanks his hosts for all they have done. "I want to extend my thanks. You have been great hosts and I have learned much in my short stay here. You have opened your minds and your hearts more than most people dare to and looked past my heritage and were willing to share your beliefs with me and train me in your ways. I hope you were able to learn something from me and the ways of my people as well and I hope our religions can find a happy marriage. May the Sun shine brightly into the dark corners of your life and give you hope when it would otherwise be lost."</p><p> </p><p>Hilldi thanks Nanuet for the toast and says that she deeply believes that the Territory will indeed learn to accept a polytheistic attitude towards the various gods given the mixture of races that now comprise the population.</p><p></p><p>Costas makes the next toast, saying how proud he is of all four priests and that it is an honor for him to have gotten a chance to work with them. He says that he will also be taking the train west, going back with Hilldi to her church. From there he will then go north up to the Utah Territory and then back to Wyoming.</p><p></p><p>He states that at the end of the month and into June he will be working in the New Mexico Territory adding, "I anticipate finishing up there in early June near the southern part of the Territory. From there it would only be a short trip over to the community of Promise City." He glances at Hilldi and Father Barnes and says, "Once you complete your worship services on Sunday June 4th why don't the both of you plan on heading down to Promise City and I can work with the four of you again that week."</p><p> </p><p>"That would be most wonderful, I look forward to your continued tutelage... although perhaps we can dispense with the grueling exercise routine at the crack of dawn?" She says with an impish smile. She turns to Hildi, "And you can stay in my new home. I have plenty of room and I would be honored if you would accept my invitation!" she smiles warmly at the dwarven girl. And father Barnes we have plenty of room for you also, unless you would prefer the out of doors as does Nanuet. He prefers the natural serenity of the grove, as do I.” She thinks as a vision of herself wrapped in her lovers arms, under the vast night sky flashes in her mind. She smiles at Nanuet and says, "It will be good to get home."</p><p> </p><p>The priests say their goodbyes to the Flagstaff priest and board the west bound train. The ride is without incident, with Hilldi pointing out various geographic features to the Bishop, Nanuet and Minerva.</p><p></p><p>The train reaches Prescott shortly before 10:30 A.M., where Nanuet and Minerva disembark to change trains while Costas and Hilldi will remain on the westbound train as it continues on to western Arizona. Nanuet and Minerva do not have long to wait for the southbound train from Prescott heading to Tombstone by way of Tempe and Tucson.</p><p></p><p>That train ride proves to be long and rather boring, with Minerva napping through much of it. Nanuet is attentive to the scenery while the train travels though the lands that once belonged to the Yavapai tribe but looses interest afterwards. It is 4:00 P.M. on this Friday afternoon when the train eventually reaches its destination of Tombstone.</p><p> </p><p>Nanuet gently shakes Minerva awake. "We have arrived in Tombstone, my Spanish Flower. It is time wake up."</p><p></p><p>Minerva stretches and smiles at the sound of Nanuet's pet name for her. "I feel more like a desert weed that has been trampled by a stampede of wild buffalo," she says as she stands and tries to loosen her knotted muscles.</p><p></p><p>They disembark and Minerva releases Luna from her cage. She instructs her to stretch her wings and find herself a meal somewhere while they tend to the business of finding their luggage.</p><p></p><p>"Let us check on the horses before we find ourselves a meal I have missed Shadow and I am sure that he is impatient for my return as well."</p><p> </p><p>"As I am sure Shadow has missed you. It will be good to get home and digest all that we have learned. You seem that you had a good nap on the train, perhaps we can celebrate our homecoming late into the evening tonight," Nanuet says as he leads Minerva towards the stables.</p><p> </p><p>The horses have been well tended to at the O.K. Corral. Nanuet and Minerva get saddled up and ready for the ride home. Nanuet senses Maska nearby, and she joins up with them once they are away from the town.</p><p></p><p>Nanuet is thrilled to see his loyal companion and that she is well. He asks Minerva to call for Luna so that the two animals can see one another again. He then says a prayer requesting a safe journey and continues the ride towards Promise City.</p><p> </p><p>The first two hours pass rather uneventfully, with the only person they pass on the road being a lone gentleman riding to the Bar-W Ranch. They have seen him around town before and assume him to be the private tutor that Rebecca King has hired to educate her grandson.</p><p></p><p>Minerva hails the gentleman. "Buenas Dias, Senor! What news do you have of Promise City?"</p><p> </p><p>He does not introduce himself by name. Instead he gives Minerva a venomous look and in answer to her question says, "Promise City? Nothing new to report other than the place continues on its downward path towards Hades. But what else would you expect from a place where an unqualified drunkard is sought to teach school and where the town's spiritual leader cavorts with savages."</p><p> </p><p>"Savages you say? And just what might this savage look like? Do you happen to know his appearance?" Nanuet says in a sarcastic tone.</p><p> </p><p>The man turns his attention back to Minerva and states, "You may have taught it to speak our language but I will not lower myself to interact with such a creature. Good day madam. May the gods teach you the folly of your foolishness." He begins to ride away.</p><p> </p><p>Minerva does not respond to the petty remarks. She realizes that it would be like preaching to the deaf in the dark, but neither does she bid the man a, "good day" as he rides off.</p><p></p><p>She turns to Nanuet with an apologetic look and sighs at the man's ignorance. "He was surely sent this way by the gods as a reminder to us that we have our work cut out for us. The gods' work is never easy," she smiles.</p><p></p><p>"But I have learned much from our companions these past few days and can feel the power of the gods' Will coursing through my veins. In the days ahead, we shall train those whose hearts are open to do the gods work, and pry open and liberate the hearts of those who are held captive by their own fear and ignorance. Come now. I am anxious to lay eyes upon our home, Nanuet." With that, she spurs her mount on to town.</p><p> </p><p>Nanuet's blood boils at the man's unfounded and prejudiced comments. His anger is stilled by Minerva's words, which is an unusual role reversal for the two. Nanuet hesitates for just a moment watching the man ride away and then gallops after Minerva.</p><p> </p><p>The man responsible for the education of the King and Eaton children disappears from sight. The two ride on. As the sun begins to set on the horizon they reach the part of the road where it branches off to the south to the Shaw family's Lazy-S ranch.</p><p> </p><p>"Minerva, it will be dark soon. That is the way to the Shaw ranch, we can either go on or see if we can hole up there. I can see in the dark, and should be able to lead your mount if we need to. I know you want to get home, just thinking of all the options."</p><p> </p><p>"You know me well! Si, I want to go home. I will follow you."</p><p> </p><p>They ride on. Before the last glimmers of light depart from the sky they reach the intersection where the road branches north and south. The familiar sign has an arrow pointing northwest that reads, “Dos Cabezas 6 Miles,” and another arrow pointing southeast that reads, “Promise City 14 Miles,” and below that, “Galeyville 26 Miles.” They turn south and continue onward. Nanuet estimates from the sky that it is shortly after 9:00 P.M. when they reach the wooden bridge over a Pine Creek. They then turn south, and soon see the lights from the town of Promise City visible in the distance little more than a mile away.</p><p> </p><p>Minerva turns to Nanuet and grins. "Finally! It will be sooo good to be home again. This week has gone on forever! I have missed our friends and our bed! ... and NOT necessarily in that order," she says with a twinkle in her eye as she picks up the pace to a trot.</p><p> </p><p>Nanuet watches Minerva ride away, his backside sore from a day in the saddle, scratches his head and says with a chuckle, "Where do you find the energy Senorita?" as he spurs his mount forward to catch up with her.</p><p> </p><p>At 9:30 P.M. they arrive in town. They arrive at the El Parador's stables where they board their horses. The centaur Qualtaqa greets them, him having appropriated one of the horse stalls as his own Promise City Home. Handyman Grant Keebler soon arrives and offers to feed and water the mounts.</p><p></p><p>Being a Friday evening they hear a festive crowd over in the El Parador. Hearing that they are there Dorita quickly hurries out to the stable and orders the pair to go inside and get something to eat.</p><p> </p><p>Nanuet knows better than to argue although Minerva had initially had other thoughts centering on a more private diner. Nanuet takes Minerva's arm and promptly escorts her inside and looks for a place to sit.</p><p> </p><p>The place is crowded but Minerva finds them a small table near the far corner. They are barley seated when Dorita puts plates of food before them. Estaban begins to play a Spanish love ballad.</p><p></p><p>Nanuet begins to dig into the food but Minerva pulls him away to an open area and wraps her arms around Nanuet. "The food will still be there mi amore, dance with my now!" Nanuet complies, and the two dance to the lovely ballad.</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="orchid blossom, post: 2881135, member: 12815"] [SIZE=3]Lessons[/SIZE] The train then pulls into Prescott, the capital of the Arizona Territory and one of the larger cities. Most of the passengers disembark at this point, including the group of Indians who head to the baggage car for their possessions. There is an hour long layover before the train continues northward, the next stop being the small logging town of Flagstaff. Minerva and Nanuet disembark to stretch their legs before continuing their journey. Minerva looks around hoping to catch a glimpse of Nakomo and reassure herself that he is alright. She sees that Nakomo has run into the train depot, but rather than going alone one of the Western Apache Indians has accompanied him. She gets close enough to hear them asking a porter about borrowing another cart to put their luggage on. The Indians head off into the town of Prescott. Nanuet and Minerva stay near the train depot. A new group of northbound passengers arrive, including a group of twenty-nine United States Army soldiers. They soldiers load several wood and metal trunks that appear to be quite heavy into the baggage car. Four armed soldiers go into the baggage car and the doors to that car are then closed and locked with padlocks. The conductor calls for all to get aboard. Nanuet decides it best to avoid the passenger car with the soldiers and sit in the other one instead. The train heads off to the northeast. It travels for an hour and then begins to slow down shortly after passing through the small depot town of Clarkdale. Looking out the window Nanuet and Minerva see the reason for the delay, as they are approaching the bridge that crosses the Big Chino River. A fallen tree has washed down the river and is lodged against the bridge. Some of its limbs are sticking up through the bridge rails and is partially blocking the track ahead. The train comes to a complete halt prior to the bridge. The Lieutenant leading the soldiers assumes the worst, yelling to his men that that the tree barricade was possibly put there to stop the train. He orders all of the passengers to either lie down in their seats or onto the floor. He then orders six men to remain in each of the two passenger cars, spacing them three per side on the front, middle and end of each car, and sends four more to take positions up on the roof of the baggage car. The Lieutenant then exits with train with his remaining eight troops and they approach the bridge. The officer and the two men flanking him have their revolvers out while the remaining five men are holding their rifles and watching the surrounding terrain. "Now what?" Minerva whispers to Nanuet while they crouch down in their seat as instructed. She opens Luna's cage, takes her out and cradles her in her arm while gripping her pistol with her other arm. She peeks out the window to try and see what is going on. The soldiers manage to dislodge the tree limbs from the bridge and return to the train without incident. The conductor in the passenger car wipes some sweat off of his brow and comments out loud, “Whew…looks like it was just a stuck tree all along.” The train starts up again and crosses the bridge. As they travel through the monotonous land Minerva stares listlessly out of the window, no longer seeing the stunted scrub pine, dying sagebrush or the colorless rocks slide by. The train rounds yet another bend of what Minerva assumes will only be more flat, lifeless landscape, when they suddenly find themselves in the town of Sedona. Its stark contrast to the barren land hits her like a splash of icy water causing her to inhale sharply as she is jarred from her bored reverie. A soft hiss escapes her lips as her breath is stolen away by the awe inspiring sight of the blood red cliffs rising out of the ground around her. The colors are so full of life and vitality that she is sure that this tapestry could only have been woven by the hand of a great god. Momentarily speechless, she fumbles behind her in search of Nanuet's arm and gently shakes him awake without taking her eyes from the glorious view. "Look, Mi Amor, Have you ever beheld such unearthly beauty? What god is it, I wonder, that thinks so highly of man that he would bestow such a wondrous gift?" she whispers. They disembark from the train to say a prayer of thanksgiving to whatever god or gods that would create such splendor upon the earth before continuing on their journey to Flagstaff. The train travels another twenty-five miles northeast, with a short stop at the town of Sedona. It then goes north for another twenty-five miles to the town of Flagstaff. Minerva and Nanuet exit the train. They discover that there isn’t much of a town as of yet, Flagstaff being a logging town. Most of the train depot consists of platforms with recently cut timber waiting to be loaded upon a freight train at some point in the near future. The center of the town square features a huge flagpole flying an American flag. A wooden plaque beside it states that the flagstaff was erected on that spot on July 4, 1876 to celebrate the nation’s Centennial. The town square consists of only a dozen buildings, namely: Two sawmills, three large barracks/bunkhouses for the loggers, two logging company offices, one fancy residence belonging to the owner of a logging company, a combination General Store/Post Office, a barn/corral/stable, a saloon, and a newly constructed Greek/Roman church. They finally arrive in Flagstaff, sweaty and tired. A feeling of relief washes over Minerva as they step off the train. "Thank the gods we have arrived unmolested," she prays. The priestess looks around the infant town and immediately spots the church among the few buildings. She turns to Nanuet and takes his hand. "Let us go and make our presence known to the Bishop and then we shall find a place to refresh ourselves and relax over a warm meal. We can pick up our bags at the station later." She opens the door to Luna's cage releasing her from her confinement before strolling over to the church on Nanuet's arm. They enter the building to see Bishop Costas Papandraus, the Deputy Administrator of the Greek/Roman Church in the Arizona, New Mexico, Wyoming and Utah Territories. He is seated in the front pew of the church talking to a female dwarf who is the equivalent of age thirty and a male human of around eighteen. Minerva walks toward them and waits patiently until they have finished their conversation before addressing the bishop. "Buena Dias your Excellency." She Curtseys. "I am the Priestess Minerva Garcia Florencia, representative of the Church of Olympus in Promise City and this is my escort Senor Nanuet who is also learning the ways of the gods." Nanuet bows awkwardly in respect and keeps himself a step behind Minerva, feeling out of place among the church officials. "Your Excellency? Relax Minerva, you're among friends. Please address me as Costas. And Nanuet, it is good to see you again as well. Come over here and I'll introduce you to the others." He gestures to the dwarf. She is wearing priest’s robes, her hair tied back in a long braid and her beard neatly combed and cropped. Bishop Papandraus states, "This is Hilldi Argyle MacTavish. Like yourself, she is new to the clergy. She will be running a church in the town of Kingman, around one hundred miles west of here." He then gestures to the man and says, "This is Silas Oraibi Barnes. He has been named the priest of this church. I consecrated this structure on Sunday, simultaneous to Trisus doing the same at your own church Minerva. I am sorry that I could not be there but I find that my duties have me spread rather thin, supervising four Territories. I must say, you made very good time getting here, we weren't expecting you until tomorrow." Minerva shakes hands all around and congratulates the priests on their posts, wishing them well. "May the gods be merciful," she says and turns her attention to the Bishop. "Si, Costas. Things appear quiet in Promise City at the moment and I was quite curious to know why you would send for me so we left almost immediately after receiving your message. He replies, "I brought you here for a few days of training. My schedule is so tight that I thought it best to train the three of you simultaneously while I was here in the territory." He then glances towards Nanuet and says, "If memory serves you are also a novice priest. I realize that you are not a follower of the same deities, but some of what I will be teaching these three is universal to most religions. You are welcome to participate with us if you wish." Nanuet meekly steps forward. "Yes, I am a novice priest and have had discussions with Minerva about broadening my horizons and learning about your religion. I am honored you would allow me to participate." "Oh, this is wonderful!" Minerva beams. "When shall we begin? Nanuet and I just arrived a few minutes ago and need to eat and freshened up first. We should collect our luggage from the train station and settle in first also. Is there a hotel that would be suitable?" Priest Barnes says, "A room has been built in the back of this structure for myself to live in, which I have given to you and Hilldi to stay in during this week. I had secured lodgings for myself and Costas at one of the boarding houses in town. I can get you a room there as well Nanuet." Nanuet looks to Minerva, a little unsure of how he should handle the situation. He then looks back to Priest Barnes and nods, "That would be perfect, thank you." Minerva turns to Costas and smiles. "Costas if you would be so kind as to spare me a moment, I have a private matter that I must discuss with you." "Certainly, why don't we go into the back room while the other get to know one another better." Once the Bishop and Priestess leave Priest Barnes turns to Nanuet and says, "Hello Nanuet....that is a Yavapai name is it not?" Nanuet is a little surprised at the Priest's knowledge of his own tribe, but it is a pleasant surprise. "Yes, it is a Yavapai name, how are you familiar with that may I ask?" He reaches his hands up to the sides of his head and pulls his dark hair back, revealing slight points on the top of both of his ears. "My maternal grandparents were both half-elves, my grandfather being of the Pawnee people and my grandmother from the Hopi people. They were raised by the Hopi, as was my mother. She was raised at the Oraibi Pueblo, around fifty miles northeast of here, which is the origin of my middle name. I am familiar with all of our people in this region." Minerva smiles encouragingly at Nanuet and follows the Bishop into the back room. She is a bit nervous about what his reaction will be to her declaration but hides it well behind her noble stance. “Costas, there is something that you must know.” She says matter-of-factly. “Shortly after my arrival in Promise City, I was introduced to Senor Nanuet. I am not a fanciful woman Costas, but when we met, I felt connected somehow… as though the gods had ordained our meeting. I did not understand why the gods would wish this, but I chose to trust in the divine wisdom of the gods. Senor Nanuet, not being a particularly trusting fellow, was at first quite leery of my sudden presence in his life,” she smirks as she recalls his anger on the day of her arrival in Promise City. “But despite his initial resistance, we came to trust and respect one another in an extraordinarily brief span of time.” “There was some trouble,” she says frowning in remembrance. “Senor Nanuet was critically injured and I prayed fervently to the gods not to take him from me. I have never felt that kind of fear before,” she says pressing her clenched fist to her heart. The gods granted me a great boon…not just our gods, but Nanuet’s gods as well. They bound our magics together in an amulet that a Shaman of Nanuet’s faith had bestowed on him, allowing me to heal Nanuet’s grievous wound and save his life. Not long after this, the gods summoned me through the veil of dreams. I found myself in a wood before a fork in a path. Now, I know that it is not unusual for the gods to ask us to choose a path,” she says stopping before him. “But this was quite unusual, as the gods had also brought the spirit of an ancient Yavapi warrior through the Veil also. He stood before the path, the path that would lead me to Nanuet, and smiling his approval of our spiritual bonding, told me the choice was mine to make. He stepped aside allowing me to find my way to Nanuet. Costas, I believe that the gods of both our pantheons desire that Nanuet and I travel the path together.” She hesitates for a moment, screwing up her courage before continuing. She looks directly at the Bishop and stands tall, a joyous light shines in her eyes as she says, “On the eve of the Festival of Dionysus, Nanuet and I, according to the will of the gods, completed our bonding by performing the sacred ceremony of Venus. We are now joined spiritually, magically and physically, Costas. I just thought that you should know, as there are some in Promise City who would not see honor in the worship of Venus and I have no intention of hiding what the gods have ordained. He nods and says, "Then it is appropriate that you have brought him here. That is an unusual situation, and I appreciate your candor. I would caution you about making such declarations to others though. I am not sure how my senior Bishop would react to such knowledge and I have no doubt that Mrs. King would write him of it if she were to discover this. This training period should be helpful to both of you. While I can personally teach the two of you various spells and clerical magics, it is through your two fellow students that you may learn even more. Both have had considerable experience with bridging two different worlds and races. Racial and religious prejudices have been part of both of their lives. Hilldi preaches to both a human and dwarven community, but many of the dwarves have shunned her for taking on a human-worshipped deity as her primary god, although she still respects and acknowledges the dwarven and norse deities as well. Silas Oraibi Barnes may look human to you, but he is one-quarter elvan. His maternal grandmother was from the Hopi tribe. He doesn't flaunt the fact but neither does he hide it, using his middle name which is Hopi." Minerva answers, “I have no intentions of making any unnecessary declarations to satisfy the curiosity of others, but neither will I skulk around and give credence to the beliefs of such misguided souls as Mrs. King. My behavior is deemed appropriate in the eyes of the gods and is in accordance with Their will. I will not be cowed by those who cannot accept it. Thank you for your understanding Costa." Minerva say's hugging him in relief. “If you have no objections, I would prefer to share my room with Nanuet during our stay here." "Senor Nanuet will be quite pleased. He also has had to live in a world fraught with bigotry and is learning to overcome his misgivings. His Shaman Kajika has promised to teach me the ways of the Yavapi also." "Well, that would be problematic, as you will be sharing the same room with Hilldi. And it would not be safe for either of you women to stay at the boarding house. With the exception of the lumber company owner's wife the two of you are the only females in town. It is far safer that both stay here in the safety of the church." "Si, I understand. I will stay with Hilldi. I will go now and find Nanuet. After we have eaten and I have claimed my bags from the train station, I will return. Grasias Costas. I appreciate your understanding," she says and takes her leave. The Bishop and Priestess return to the others. Costas asks Hilldi to show Minerva to their room and asks Priest Barnes to take Nanuet over to the boarding house and get him a room there. Costas says, "While you are getting settled in I'll get some supper going for us all." "That is much appreciated, it will not take me long to settle in as I travel with few belongings. Perhaps then I could help you with the preparation of the evening meal?" Costas welcomes Nanuet's assistance. They have a collection of vegitables as well as two freshly skinned rabbits. Costas tells Nanuet "The congregation primarily pays their priest in food." "That sounds very practical, although I am not sure what they are paying you for. What services do you provide to the people that earn payments?" "What services will Priest Barnes provide? Why healing of course. This is a logging town. Saws are dangerous tools, as are using block and tackle when swinging about large trees and logs. The richest loggers are the fastest loggers, but working fast also leads to more accidents. Having a priest right here in town rather than a railroad stop away could mean the difference between life and death, or possibly loss of limb which for a logger would be permanent unemployment." "Well, I never figured the clergy would provide those services, but it does make sense. It is good that those services are available and that Priest Barnes is flexible with the payment arrangements. Here, I think that should do it," Nanuet says holding up two perfectly skinned rabbits. Minerva gathers her belongings and settles in, She claims the bed near the window and opens it to let what breeze there is waft into the room and Places Luna's cage beside it so that her feathered companion can come and go as she pleases. As she is unpacking she chats with Hilldi. "Costas tells me that you that you have chosen to serve a mixed community. How are you faring Hilldi? Are they treating you well?" The dwarf replies, "The humans treat me better than my own race. Dwarven communities here in the United States tend to be male dominated. Just becoming a priest is independence enough, but to also take on the deities of other races is too much for many of my race to adapt to. But as the only Priest around, and given the number of on-the-job accidents that occur, it will only be a matter of time until they all seek my services of one form or another." Minerva and Hilldi are soon finished her unpacking and they return to the others. The five priests sit down for dinner together. Costas says, "I suppose that one of us should say a blessing....seems to me like we are all well qualified for that task." “Even the poorest man is qualified to speak with the gods, but it is true that the gods have shown us special favor, Costa," she says discreetly squeezing Nanuet's hand. Let us link our hands in a circle a give thanks in unison. During the meal Costas outlines the tentative schedule for the next three days. Barring any interruptions from the town's congregation, he plans for ten to fourteen hour days of intense study and training. For the training the students will learn, both individually and collectively, various skills, feats and spells by which to better serve their congregations. He states that since some of them are at differing levels of instruction they may need some future instruction to better master some of these but that the initial exposure to these things will make that future training go quicker. After the meal has ended Nanuet and Minerva stroll through the town arm in arm. They chat excitedly about the prospect of further training that will enable them to more effectively serve their gods. Minerva sighs as Nanuet walks her back to the church. "I do regret that we are unable to room together during our stay here, but Costas feels that it would be safer if the women board together. I told him of our relationship and that I would prefer to stay with you but, although he took it well he still insists that I should stay with Hilldie. I suppose it would be safer for Hilldie if she did not stay alone." Minerva shrugs her shoulders in resignation. "I hope that you are not angry." she says looking up at him with concern in her eyes. Nanuet notes the concerned look in her eye and runs his fingers through her thick black hair as he reassures her. "First of all, we will not be able to stay with each other every night, I understand that. Then there is the matter of this not being your fault at all. I have no right to be mad at you, for you did nothing wrong. We will spend our time together when the moment is right. Here we should focus on the message of the Gods and the teachings of the priests." "Gracias, Mi Amor. I am glad that you understand and are not offended. You are a wonderful man. A true gift from the gods." She pulls him into the shadow of the church and leaning up kisses him passionately before entering her room. "Dream of me. Mi Amore." she whispers. "I always do," he says softly as she enters her room and leaves him in the street. Even though Nanuet did not need sleep he figured it would be best to rest and be prepared for the intense days ahead. The new day dawns, bringing with it new challenges that tax their stamina and strength. Their time in Flagstaff flies by... Up at dawn, prayers, exercises, lectures, practice... leaving little time or desire to think about food or rest or more carnal desires. At the close of each day Minerva falls into her bed too tired to do much more than strip off her clothing, too weary to even dream of her lover, before the sun rises again for another grueling day devoted to the gods. But although the work is arduous and she is bone tired each night, each morning she awakens strangely energized and full of anticipation of what the day will bring. Minerva jokingly, comments to Nanuet and Hilldi that Costa is running an Olympian bootcamp of the faithful. After three days of intense study the five priests gather for their final breakfast together on the morning of Friday, May 19th. The train to the southwest is expected to arrive at 9:30 AM. Hilldi has prepared a fine breakfast of ham steaks, flapjacks with whipped butter, toasted bread and baked cinnamon apples. Costas says a prayer before they all begin to partake of the meal. Once the prayer is done Nanuet stands for a moment and thanks his hosts for all they have done. "I want to extend my thanks. You have been great hosts and I have learned much in my short stay here. You have opened your minds and your hearts more than most people dare to and looked past my heritage and were willing to share your beliefs with me and train me in your ways. I hope you were able to learn something from me and the ways of my people as well and I hope our religions can find a happy marriage. May the Sun shine brightly into the dark corners of your life and give you hope when it would otherwise be lost." Hilldi thanks Nanuet for the toast and says that she deeply believes that the Territory will indeed learn to accept a polytheistic attitude towards the various gods given the mixture of races that now comprise the population. Costas makes the next toast, saying how proud he is of all four priests and that it is an honor for him to have gotten a chance to work with them. He says that he will also be taking the train west, going back with Hilldi to her church. From there he will then go north up to the Utah Territory and then back to Wyoming. He states that at the end of the month and into June he will be working in the New Mexico Territory adding, "I anticipate finishing up there in early June near the southern part of the Territory. From there it would only be a short trip over to the community of Promise City." He glances at Hilldi and Father Barnes and says, "Once you complete your worship services on Sunday June 4th why don't the both of you plan on heading down to Promise City and I can work with the four of you again that week." "That would be most wonderful, I look forward to your continued tutelage... although perhaps we can dispense with the grueling exercise routine at the crack of dawn?" She says with an impish smile. She turns to Hildi, "And you can stay in my new home. I have plenty of room and I would be honored if you would accept my invitation!" she smiles warmly at the dwarven girl. And father Barnes we have plenty of room for you also, unless you would prefer the out of doors as does Nanuet. He prefers the natural serenity of the grove, as do I.” She thinks as a vision of herself wrapped in her lovers arms, under the vast night sky flashes in her mind. She smiles at Nanuet and says, "It will be good to get home." The priests say their goodbyes to the Flagstaff priest and board the west bound train. The ride is without incident, with Hilldi pointing out various geographic features to the Bishop, Nanuet and Minerva. The train reaches Prescott shortly before 10:30 A.M., where Nanuet and Minerva disembark to change trains while Costas and Hilldi will remain on the westbound train as it continues on to western Arizona. Nanuet and Minerva do not have long to wait for the southbound train from Prescott heading to Tombstone by way of Tempe and Tucson. That train ride proves to be long and rather boring, with Minerva napping through much of it. Nanuet is attentive to the scenery while the train travels though the lands that once belonged to the Yavapai tribe but looses interest afterwards. It is 4:00 P.M. on this Friday afternoon when the train eventually reaches its destination of Tombstone. Nanuet gently shakes Minerva awake. "We have arrived in Tombstone, my Spanish Flower. It is time wake up." Minerva stretches and smiles at the sound of Nanuet's pet name for her. "I feel more like a desert weed that has been trampled by a stampede of wild buffalo," she says as she stands and tries to loosen her knotted muscles. They disembark and Minerva releases Luna from her cage. She instructs her to stretch her wings and find herself a meal somewhere while they tend to the business of finding their luggage. "Let us check on the horses before we find ourselves a meal I have missed Shadow and I am sure that he is impatient for my return as well." "As I am sure Shadow has missed you. It will be good to get home and digest all that we have learned. You seem that you had a good nap on the train, perhaps we can celebrate our homecoming late into the evening tonight," Nanuet says as he leads Minerva towards the stables. The horses have been well tended to at the O.K. Corral. Nanuet and Minerva get saddled up and ready for the ride home. Nanuet senses Maska nearby, and she joins up with them once they are away from the town. Nanuet is thrilled to see his loyal companion and that she is well. He asks Minerva to call for Luna so that the two animals can see one another again. He then says a prayer requesting a safe journey and continues the ride towards Promise City. The first two hours pass rather uneventfully, with the only person they pass on the road being a lone gentleman riding to the Bar-W Ranch. They have seen him around town before and assume him to be the private tutor that Rebecca King has hired to educate her grandson. Minerva hails the gentleman. "Buenas Dias, Senor! What news do you have of Promise City?" He does not introduce himself by name. Instead he gives Minerva a venomous look and in answer to her question says, "Promise City? Nothing new to report other than the place continues on its downward path towards Hades. But what else would you expect from a place where an unqualified drunkard is sought to teach school and where the town's spiritual leader cavorts with savages." "Savages you say? And just what might this savage look like? Do you happen to know his appearance?" Nanuet says in a sarcastic tone. The man turns his attention back to Minerva and states, "You may have taught it to speak our language but I will not lower myself to interact with such a creature. Good day madam. May the gods teach you the folly of your foolishness." He begins to ride away. Minerva does not respond to the petty remarks. She realizes that it would be like preaching to the deaf in the dark, but neither does she bid the man a, "good day" as he rides off. She turns to Nanuet with an apologetic look and sighs at the man's ignorance. "He was surely sent this way by the gods as a reminder to us that we have our work cut out for us. The gods' work is never easy," she smiles. "But I have learned much from our companions these past few days and can feel the power of the gods' Will coursing through my veins. In the days ahead, we shall train those whose hearts are open to do the gods work, and pry open and liberate the hearts of those who are held captive by their own fear and ignorance. Come now. I am anxious to lay eyes upon our home, Nanuet." With that, she spurs her mount on to town. Nanuet's blood boils at the man's unfounded and prejudiced comments. His anger is stilled by Minerva's words, which is an unusual role reversal for the two. Nanuet hesitates for just a moment watching the man ride away and then gallops after Minerva. The man responsible for the education of the King and Eaton children disappears from sight. The two ride on. As the sun begins to set on the horizon they reach the part of the road where it branches off to the south to the Shaw family's Lazy-S ranch. "Minerva, it will be dark soon. That is the way to the Shaw ranch, we can either go on or see if we can hole up there. I can see in the dark, and should be able to lead your mount if we need to. I know you want to get home, just thinking of all the options." "You know me well! Si, I want to go home. I will follow you." They ride on. Before the last glimmers of light depart from the sky they reach the intersection where the road branches north and south. The familiar sign has an arrow pointing northwest that reads, “Dos Cabezas 6 Miles,” and another arrow pointing southeast that reads, “Promise City 14 Miles,” and below that, “Galeyville 26 Miles.” They turn south and continue onward. Nanuet estimates from the sky that it is shortly after 9:00 P.M. when they reach the wooden bridge over a Pine Creek. They then turn south, and soon see the lights from the town of Promise City visible in the distance little more than a mile away. Minerva turns to Nanuet and grins. "Finally! It will be sooo good to be home again. This week has gone on forever! I have missed our friends and our bed! ... and NOT necessarily in that order," she says with a twinkle in her eye as she picks up the pace to a trot. Nanuet watches Minerva ride away, his backside sore from a day in the saddle, scratches his head and says with a chuckle, "Where do you find the energy Senorita?" as he spurs his mount forward to catch up with her. At 9:30 P.M. they arrive in town. They arrive at the El Parador's stables where they board their horses. The centaur Qualtaqa greets them, him having appropriated one of the horse stalls as his own Promise City Home. Handyman Grant Keebler soon arrives and offers to feed and water the mounts. Being a Friday evening they hear a festive crowd over in the El Parador. Hearing that they are there Dorita quickly hurries out to the stable and orders the pair to go inside and get something to eat. Nanuet knows better than to argue although Minerva had initially had other thoughts centering on a more private diner. Nanuet takes Minerva's arm and promptly escorts her inside and looks for a place to sit. The place is crowded but Minerva finds them a small table near the far corner. They are barley seated when Dorita puts plates of food before them. Estaban begins to play a Spanish love ballad. Nanuet begins to dig into the food but Minerva pulls him away to an open area and wraps her arms around Nanuet. "The food will still be there mi amore, dance with my now!" Nanuet complies, and the two dance to the lovely ballad. [/QUOTE]
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"Here There Be Vampires" A Promise City, Arizona Story Hour
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