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<blockquote data-quote="Silver Moon" data-source="post: 2794341" data-attributes="member: 8530"><p><strong>Chapter 169, “Fort Huachuca”, Monday, January 23rd, 1882, 9:30 A.M.</strong></p><p></p><p>Nanuet turns to Chester slowly "I am going to pack my things and get ready to leave. I have no expectations of you or your friends but I must leave soon. With that said Nanuet gets up from the table and heads toward the kitchen. He speaks with Dorita about getting some food prepared for the trip and gives her the money in advance. He then heads out to the grove and gathers his things quickly. He packs his saddlebags and checks his horse to be sure she is ready for the trip. Once that is done he heads back in and checks on the food preparations.</p><p></p><p>By the time Nanuet is ready he finds that Chester and his six soldier friends are already packed up and ready to go. Chester gives Nanuet a nod. "I, for one, wasn't going to let you ride there by yourself. Who knows what Gamble would have done. I fought in the Indian Wars with Gamble. He doesn't like the Indians, so he may be pushing things towards war on purpose."</p><p></p><p>Comstock says "We want to travel light and plan to come back this way so we've boarded our wagon and pack animals. We also have an extra horse with us for you Nanuet. All of our animals, and Chester’s, are trained to ride long distances, up to 80 miles in a single day in this western terrain, but yours is not. I'm not saying that you shouldn't bring yours, but when it tires you can then switch over to the other and let it go rider less. Shall we go?"</p><p></p><p>"I am humbled by your sense of duty my new friends" Nanuet says, offering his hand to each of the men. "I have noticed your horses and appreciate their durability and stamina. It is not so easy to find such a good mount around here. I will take your offer and ride your horse. ” </p><p></p><p>Mitzer has a map of Cochise and Pima Counties. He says that the most direct route would be west to Tombstone and from there on to Sierra Vista, but he advises against it given the apparent buildup of Apache along the Dragoon Mountains watching the road. Even with Nanuet along and the others not in uniform, the group still has the appearance of cavalry soldiers, so why go looking for trouble. </p><p></p><p>He suggest that they ride instead to the southwest of Promise City to the village of Webb, a small community around ten miles southeast of Tombstone. From there they could travel due west to Fort Huachuca, off the beaten track and between the towns of Tombstone and Bisbee. Going across open land rather than established roads will slow them down some, but the map doesn't show any mountains, wide rivers or other natural barriers and it would be the easiest way to avoid both Indians and soldiers along the way.” Nanuet states, “I agree with your plan of travel. To take the road to Tombstone would be a risk we don't need to take. We should get going, the light is not long this time of year."</p><p></p><p>The group rides off. Comstock tells Nanuet he chose wisely to leave his horse behind at the El Parador, as even rider less it would have slowed them down. They make good speed into the afternoon, reaching the village of Webb by 2:00 PM. It is little more than a General Store and a half dozen farmhouses grouped together along a secondary road. But it does have a good water source and both hay and grain are available for the horses, so they take a half-hour break for both the mounts and riders to revitalize. </p><p></p><p>An hour later into riding they reach the main road leading from Bisbee to Tombstone and are thankful that nobody is within sight at the time. They dismount and slowly walk their horses single file up to and across the road, taking the time to smooth out the single line of tracks afterwards, so it is not apparent that a group intersected. </p><p></p><p>They continue to ride on well into the evening, with stops along way at any good-sized hill to scout out and ensure that they are not being followed. By 9:00 PM they reach a river, which appears to be far wider than Mitzer's map would indicate, although that could be a result from being downriver from all of the prior week's rainy weather. </p><p></p><p>The map indicates that the Fort is twelve to fifteen miles further from the other side of the river depending upon exactly where they may be. Comstock points out the danger in attempting to ford an unfamiliar river at night. He suggests that they make camp here and attempt to cross the river. at dawn. Mitzer agrees, adding that "It is best not to approach a Fortress who aren't expecting you at night, especially if you have an Indian as part of your group."</p><p></p><p>"I agree. Getting you shot, Nanuet, will start a war really fast. I can take a middle watch." Chester unsaddles his horse and brushes it down. "I am going to agree with any plan that avoids me getting shot!" Nanuet says jokingly. In a more serious tone he says "I can take a long watch. I spent much time resting last night and only need four hours of sleep. Let me scout out the river while you prepare camp as I can see somewhat in the dark. " </p><p></p><p>Nanuet unmounts and then secures his borrowed steed. Before heading towards the river he tells the men. "My companion is a wolf, I am going to call to her while I am down at the river as to not spook the horses. If you see a she wolf, do not be afraid." With that he heads to the river to scout out any possible fords or crossings. Chester asks, "Do you think we can start a campfire?" Comstock advises against the idea of a campfire. </p><p></p><p>Nanuet does not find any fords along the river. The horses had ridden far faster than he was accustomed to. He has not been able to sense Maska's presence since shortly after they had left the village of Webb. He knew that Maska would be able to follow their scent, and when he last was with the wolf was still cloaked with invisibility, but their being apart still worried him. </p><p></p><p>Nanuet senses the wolf's presence again shortly after midnight and they are reunited again within the next twenty minutes. He feels that the pads on the wolf's paws are heavily worn, this trip being far more arduous than he had anticipated. He gives some freshly killed game to her to eat. He wakes Chester and informs him that it is time for his watch. Nanuet and Maska then curl up together. </p><p></p><p>It is six hours later when Nanuet is awakened by Chester. Surprisingly, Maska did not wake first upon Chester's approach, and Nanuet realizes that the fifty-five mile run was far harder on the animal than he had realized at first. Thankfully their trip today would be shorter and she was now well rested. </p><p></p><p>Comstock and Mitzer sit down to have breakfast and talk strategy with Nanuet and Chester while the other four split into pairs and each ride off both up and down river looking for the best place to cross. Mitzer says "Let me handle the talking until we are together with Captain Whitside, the Commanding Officer of the Fort. After that I will leave you to do the talking Nanuet. What approach are you thinking of?” Nanuet states, "I was thinking of the only approach that I know of. Honesty. I am here to find out why the soldiers are traveling those Apache lands. I am sure they have a reason and I don't plan to make accusations. "</p><p></p><p>Comstock states, “The unknown factor here is this Lieutenant Gamble. We don't know what Whitside's opinion of him is and if we play this wrong we will lose all of our credibility. Mr. Martin, what can you tell us about the man and your history with him?" </p><p></p><p>Chester replies, "Well, the lieutenant is a cruel man. I think he likes killing, especially Indians. Not long after I joined the Army, we were sent to Chicago during the Great Rail Strike. We were supposed to help keep the peace. A bunch of policemen were being pressed by a mob. We rode out to rescue them. The crowd was slow in leaving when Gamble gives the order to fire. So we did. Several people were killed. They just had clubs. It was horrible. </p><p></p><p>"When we were hunting the Sioux and Cheyenne in Kansas, he didn't like granting surrenders. Our lieutenant had to stop him from firing on fleeing elves many times. I couldn't stomach it anymore, so one day I punched him in the face. Spent a few months on the stockade and got dishonorably discharged."</p><p></p><p>Mitzer stokes his chin at hearing that. "Okay, we'd better play down that one then. I doubt that Captain Samuel Marmaduke Whitside would be tolerant of a man who was dishonorably discharged, regardless of the reason. He's career army, enlisted when he was barely old enough and was promoted to Sergeant Major even before the war. Spent most of the war in staff positions as aide to several of the top generals in Washington D.C. </p><p></p><p>After the war he was a made a Captain and given command of Troop B of the 6th Cavalry. He's been here in Arizona for the past six years, first a Fort Lowell and now Fort Huachuca. In fact, he started the Fort, he selected the site because it had fresh running water, an abundance of trees, excellent observation in three directions, and protective high ground for security. Officially it has been a camp rather than a permanent station, but he recently petitioned to have it officially receive 'Fort' designation." </p><p></p><p>He then turns to Nanuet and asks, "So, what tribe are you from and how is it that you now speak for the Apache?" Nanuet says, "I am of the Yavapi tribe. It is a smaller tribe and my people were forced to move onto reservations with the Apache, so I learned the language. As far as how I am able to speak for them, I lead a small group of my companions through their lands searching for some murderous bandits. It was then that I met and spoke with Geronimo and his shaman who is now my mentor. The person who was to be their ambassador had been killed, so I was given that task. Until now I had not seen a chance to fulfill that duty."</p><p></p><p>The other soldiers return and have found a spot to ford the river a half-mile to the south. The river is actually wider at that point but the bottom can be seen and it appears to be no more than four-feet deep. They still fasten up ropes between each of them and their mounts given the swift current. They eventually manage to get all eight of them across. </p><p></p><p>They ride on for the next ninety-minutes until they see their destination. A wooden stockade fort surrounds the great encampment ahead, although most of the buildings appear to be made of just canvas over wooden frames. There appear to be around fifty separate buildings and multiple corrals. They arrive and Captain Mitzer identifies himself and asks to be taken to the Fort's commander. As they travel through Nanuet and Chester note a large civilian population at the encampment as well, and also buildings with signage indicating both a church and a school, unusual sights for a temporary military encampment.</p><p></p><p>Nanuet, Chester and their six friends find their way into the command tent of Captain Whitside. Mitzer makes for some quick introduction, beginning with himself and his men. He then introduces Comstock, Whittemore and Martin as being former solders. Whitside says to Elisha, "Your reputation proceeds you Major Whittemore." He then turns to Chester and with a scowl says "As does yours Mr. Martin." Chester then hears the sound of the familiar snicker of Oscar Gamble from behind him.</p><p></p><p>Chester sighs. "I see the lieutenant has briefed you, Captain Whitside. Do you agree with him that the Indians are to be corralled like so many horses? I think that someone is causing trouble among the Apaches. It could lead to war." He gestures toward Nanuet. "This man here is an ambassador to the Apaches. Please, listen to him. Even if you consider me a deadbeat."</p><p></p><p>Captain Whitside stares directly at Chester and says "Sir, Indian policy is not for you or I to decide. The policy is set in Washington. If you have a problem with how Indians are dealt with I would suggest that you take it up with President Arthur. </p><p></p><p>What I do know is that this County has historically been a hot spot. This fortress is but one in a network of seventy US Army outposts stretching across the Southwest frontier. I personally selected this location for it. Back when there was the trouble with Cochise this area we are in now was their escape route across the border into Mexico. The savages would attack the homes of the law abiding settlers and then run across the border when the Army came to enforce the law. This fortress in this spot is a key element in a strategy to sever the Apaches' traditional escape route into Mexico, while still protecting settlers in the southern part of the young Arizona territory at the same time." </p><p></p><p>Mitzer says "Sir, you know of Fort Stanton. That is where my men and myself are from. The fortress is also strategically located, to monitor the Warm Springs Reservation where the Mescelaro Apache now live. This man Nanuet is of the Yavapai tribe. His people are at the San Carlo Indian Reservation along with the Western Apache. Both of those groups of Apache are confined under land set aside by the government. I have no problem with Government policy toward the Indians. </p><p></p><p>The issue at hand is not either of those tribes but of the one other group of Apache, the descendants of Cochise, who are in what they consider to be the land negotiated to them many years ago. The Chiricahua Apache wish to remain in the Chiricahua Mountain. An agreement had been reached where they would stay in the mountains and from human settlement provided that the army stayed out of the mountains. Your Lieutenant Gamble appears to have violated the delicate balance of that uneasy truce. This elf named Nanuet has been trusted by Cochise's successor, Geronimo, to negotiate with the appropriate Government representative, you, to reestablish the truce." </p><p></p><p>Whitside says "The agreement made three months ago was that the solders would stay out of the mountains if the Apache would prevent outlaws such as the James Gang from seeking refuge there. Lieutenant Gamble only entered those mountains because the Cowboy Gang did. If the Apache are to provide safe home to criminals then they are the ones who have violated the truce, not us."</p><p></p><p>Chester interjects, "What if another group went into the mountains in search of the Cowboy Gang? People not with the Army or the Apache. That way, someone is looking for the outlaws, but not stirring up the elves. Would that be OK, captain?" Whitside replies, "Ah, so you're confirming that the Cowboy Gang are being protected and harbored by the Chirichua Apace! I should have known that those redskins couldn't be trusted." Chester opens his mouth to reply, when Nanuet speaks. </p><p></p><p>Nanuet manages to hold back his temper although it takes almost all of his will. He then addresses the Captain in an even measured tone. "Captain Whitside, sir. We are confirming nothing. We have not been on Apache lands recently to know if the Cowboy Gang is there or not. If the Cowboy Gang enters their lands, but moves through or are chased away, is that still a problem?” </p><p>The Army commander exclaims, "Of course that's a problem! If the army is staying out and the Apache allow these criminals to use that land to escape, knowing that the Army can't chase them. So you ARE confirming that the Indians are working with the outlaws, as we suspected." </p><p></p><p></p><p>Nanuet says, “I believe what Mr. Chester is proposing is that a neutral party search the area when issues such as this arise to avoid trouble." Chester says, "Thank you, Nanuet." Whitside states, "A neutral party comprised of Indians and Army deserters like Martin, I think not. This is Army business and we will handle it our way."</p><p></p><p>Chester turns back to Whitside. "I have no idea if they're in Apache lands. What made you think the Cowboy Gang is there? Did anyone see them enter Apache territory?" Whitside turns to Lieutenant Gamble and says "What did you discover there?" Gamble replies, "We tracked the gang going thought those mountains. I also spoke to a prisoner in the County Jail, a Mr. Joseph Weems. He was part of the Cowboy Gang and confirmed that Geronimo allowed the gang free passage. Says that a gang member named Harvey Knowles is with Geronimo right now as his guest."</p><p></p><p>Nanuet listens to the soldiers speak. He focuses on remaining calm, summoning the vision of Storm in his mind and remembering Sonoma and Kajika's teachings about patience. He says, "Again you assume much. Who said that we were to be the party that would search? You seem to have your mind set on war, I am trying to work on a solution that will maintain the peace. No one can control who rides onto land. If you can give me a chance I will speak with Geronimo and see if he truly does harbor these men. I have no love for the Cowboy gang either, they have caused much distress to my companions and me. As I have accompanied the soldiers here to speak with you, can a few of your men accompany me to speak with Geronimo? I will assure their safety. Then they can report to you first hand what they see."</p><p></p><p>Captain Whitside says "Fine. I'll agree to those terms. If the Apache agree to keep the Cowboy gang and other outlaws out of the mountains then I'll keep my troops out of them as well." He then turns to the back of the room and says "Lieutenant Gamble, mount up. You and your men are riding back with these people."</p><p></p><p>Nanuet is pleased that at least they have agreed to check things out first. He asks, "How many men do you propose to send? I said only a few. I don't want to incite hostilities, I want to try and keep a peaceful understanding between the two groups."</p><p></p><p>Whitside replies "I'm sending a whole squadron. I'm told that the Apache are out in force, we have to show a position of strength to them! Gamble, take A Squadron with you and move out within the hour. I want to you at least make it to Tombstone by nightfall." "Yes Sir," Lieutenant Gamble replies and gives his Captain a crisp salute."</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Silver Moon, post: 2794341, member: 8530"] [B]Chapter 169, “Fort Huachuca”, Monday, January 23rd, 1882, 9:30 A.M.[/B] Nanuet turns to Chester slowly "I am going to pack my things and get ready to leave. I have no expectations of you or your friends but I must leave soon. With that said Nanuet gets up from the table and heads toward the kitchen. He speaks with Dorita about getting some food prepared for the trip and gives her the money in advance. He then heads out to the grove and gathers his things quickly. He packs his saddlebags and checks his horse to be sure she is ready for the trip. Once that is done he heads back in and checks on the food preparations. By the time Nanuet is ready he finds that Chester and his six soldier friends are already packed up and ready to go. Chester gives Nanuet a nod. "I, for one, wasn't going to let you ride there by yourself. Who knows what Gamble would have done. I fought in the Indian Wars with Gamble. He doesn't like the Indians, so he may be pushing things towards war on purpose." Comstock says "We want to travel light and plan to come back this way so we've boarded our wagon and pack animals. We also have an extra horse with us for you Nanuet. All of our animals, and Chester’s, are trained to ride long distances, up to 80 miles in a single day in this western terrain, but yours is not. I'm not saying that you shouldn't bring yours, but when it tires you can then switch over to the other and let it go rider less. Shall we go?" "I am humbled by your sense of duty my new friends" Nanuet says, offering his hand to each of the men. "I have noticed your horses and appreciate their durability and stamina. It is not so easy to find such a good mount around here. I will take your offer and ride your horse. ” Mitzer has a map of Cochise and Pima Counties. He says that the most direct route would be west to Tombstone and from there on to Sierra Vista, but he advises against it given the apparent buildup of Apache along the Dragoon Mountains watching the road. Even with Nanuet along and the others not in uniform, the group still has the appearance of cavalry soldiers, so why go looking for trouble. He suggest that they ride instead to the southwest of Promise City to the village of Webb, a small community around ten miles southeast of Tombstone. From there they could travel due west to Fort Huachuca, off the beaten track and between the towns of Tombstone and Bisbee. Going across open land rather than established roads will slow them down some, but the map doesn't show any mountains, wide rivers or other natural barriers and it would be the easiest way to avoid both Indians and soldiers along the way.” Nanuet states, “I agree with your plan of travel. To take the road to Tombstone would be a risk we don't need to take. We should get going, the light is not long this time of year." The group rides off. Comstock tells Nanuet he chose wisely to leave his horse behind at the El Parador, as even rider less it would have slowed them down. They make good speed into the afternoon, reaching the village of Webb by 2:00 PM. It is little more than a General Store and a half dozen farmhouses grouped together along a secondary road. But it does have a good water source and both hay and grain are available for the horses, so they take a half-hour break for both the mounts and riders to revitalize. An hour later into riding they reach the main road leading from Bisbee to Tombstone and are thankful that nobody is within sight at the time. They dismount and slowly walk their horses single file up to and across the road, taking the time to smooth out the single line of tracks afterwards, so it is not apparent that a group intersected. They continue to ride on well into the evening, with stops along way at any good-sized hill to scout out and ensure that they are not being followed. By 9:00 PM they reach a river, which appears to be far wider than Mitzer's map would indicate, although that could be a result from being downriver from all of the prior week's rainy weather. The map indicates that the Fort is twelve to fifteen miles further from the other side of the river depending upon exactly where they may be. Comstock points out the danger in attempting to ford an unfamiliar river at night. He suggests that they make camp here and attempt to cross the river. at dawn. Mitzer agrees, adding that "It is best not to approach a Fortress who aren't expecting you at night, especially if you have an Indian as part of your group." "I agree. Getting you shot, Nanuet, will start a war really fast. I can take a middle watch." Chester unsaddles his horse and brushes it down. "I am going to agree with any plan that avoids me getting shot!" Nanuet says jokingly. In a more serious tone he says "I can take a long watch. I spent much time resting last night and only need four hours of sleep. Let me scout out the river while you prepare camp as I can see somewhat in the dark. " Nanuet unmounts and then secures his borrowed steed. Before heading towards the river he tells the men. "My companion is a wolf, I am going to call to her while I am down at the river as to not spook the horses. If you see a she wolf, do not be afraid." With that he heads to the river to scout out any possible fords or crossings. Chester asks, "Do you think we can start a campfire?" Comstock advises against the idea of a campfire. Nanuet does not find any fords along the river. The horses had ridden far faster than he was accustomed to. He has not been able to sense Maska's presence since shortly after they had left the village of Webb. He knew that Maska would be able to follow their scent, and when he last was with the wolf was still cloaked with invisibility, but their being apart still worried him. Nanuet senses the wolf's presence again shortly after midnight and they are reunited again within the next twenty minutes. He feels that the pads on the wolf's paws are heavily worn, this trip being far more arduous than he had anticipated. He gives some freshly killed game to her to eat. He wakes Chester and informs him that it is time for his watch. Nanuet and Maska then curl up together. It is six hours later when Nanuet is awakened by Chester. Surprisingly, Maska did not wake first upon Chester's approach, and Nanuet realizes that the fifty-five mile run was far harder on the animal than he had realized at first. Thankfully their trip today would be shorter and she was now well rested. Comstock and Mitzer sit down to have breakfast and talk strategy with Nanuet and Chester while the other four split into pairs and each ride off both up and down river looking for the best place to cross. Mitzer says "Let me handle the talking until we are together with Captain Whitside, the Commanding Officer of the Fort. After that I will leave you to do the talking Nanuet. What approach are you thinking of?” Nanuet states, "I was thinking of the only approach that I know of. Honesty. I am here to find out why the soldiers are traveling those Apache lands. I am sure they have a reason and I don't plan to make accusations. " Comstock states, “The unknown factor here is this Lieutenant Gamble. We don't know what Whitside's opinion of him is and if we play this wrong we will lose all of our credibility. Mr. Martin, what can you tell us about the man and your history with him?" Chester replies, "Well, the lieutenant is a cruel man. I think he likes killing, especially Indians. Not long after I joined the Army, we were sent to Chicago during the Great Rail Strike. We were supposed to help keep the peace. A bunch of policemen were being pressed by a mob. We rode out to rescue them. The crowd was slow in leaving when Gamble gives the order to fire. So we did. Several people were killed. They just had clubs. It was horrible. "When we were hunting the Sioux and Cheyenne in Kansas, he didn't like granting surrenders. Our lieutenant had to stop him from firing on fleeing elves many times. I couldn't stomach it anymore, so one day I punched him in the face. Spent a few months on the stockade and got dishonorably discharged." Mitzer stokes his chin at hearing that. "Okay, we'd better play down that one then. I doubt that Captain Samuel Marmaduke Whitside would be tolerant of a man who was dishonorably discharged, regardless of the reason. He's career army, enlisted when he was barely old enough and was promoted to Sergeant Major even before the war. Spent most of the war in staff positions as aide to several of the top generals in Washington D.C. After the war he was a made a Captain and given command of Troop B of the 6th Cavalry. He's been here in Arizona for the past six years, first a Fort Lowell and now Fort Huachuca. In fact, he started the Fort, he selected the site because it had fresh running water, an abundance of trees, excellent observation in three directions, and protective high ground for security. Officially it has been a camp rather than a permanent station, but he recently petitioned to have it officially receive 'Fort' designation." He then turns to Nanuet and asks, "So, what tribe are you from and how is it that you now speak for the Apache?" Nanuet says, "I am of the Yavapi tribe. It is a smaller tribe and my people were forced to move onto reservations with the Apache, so I learned the language. As far as how I am able to speak for them, I lead a small group of my companions through their lands searching for some murderous bandits. It was then that I met and spoke with Geronimo and his shaman who is now my mentor. The person who was to be their ambassador had been killed, so I was given that task. Until now I had not seen a chance to fulfill that duty." The other soldiers return and have found a spot to ford the river a half-mile to the south. The river is actually wider at that point but the bottom can be seen and it appears to be no more than four-feet deep. They still fasten up ropes between each of them and their mounts given the swift current. They eventually manage to get all eight of them across. They ride on for the next ninety-minutes until they see their destination. A wooden stockade fort surrounds the great encampment ahead, although most of the buildings appear to be made of just canvas over wooden frames. There appear to be around fifty separate buildings and multiple corrals. They arrive and Captain Mitzer identifies himself and asks to be taken to the Fort's commander. As they travel through Nanuet and Chester note a large civilian population at the encampment as well, and also buildings with signage indicating both a church and a school, unusual sights for a temporary military encampment. Nanuet, Chester and their six friends find their way into the command tent of Captain Whitside. Mitzer makes for some quick introduction, beginning with himself and his men. He then introduces Comstock, Whittemore and Martin as being former solders. Whitside says to Elisha, "Your reputation proceeds you Major Whittemore." He then turns to Chester and with a scowl says "As does yours Mr. Martin." Chester then hears the sound of the familiar snicker of Oscar Gamble from behind him. Chester sighs. "I see the lieutenant has briefed you, Captain Whitside. Do you agree with him that the Indians are to be corralled like so many horses? I think that someone is causing trouble among the Apaches. It could lead to war." He gestures toward Nanuet. "This man here is an ambassador to the Apaches. Please, listen to him. Even if you consider me a deadbeat." Captain Whitside stares directly at Chester and says "Sir, Indian policy is not for you or I to decide. The policy is set in Washington. If you have a problem with how Indians are dealt with I would suggest that you take it up with President Arthur. What I do know is that this County has historically been a hot spot. This fortress is but one in a network of seventy US Army outposts stretching across the Southwest frontier. I personally selected this location for it. Back when there was the trouble with Cochise this area we are in now was their escape route across the border into Mexico. The savages would attack the homes of the law abiding settlers and then run across the border when the Army came to enforce the law. This fortress in this spot is a key element in a strategy to sever the Apaches' traditional escape route into Mexico, while still protecting settlers in the southern part of the young Arizona territory at the same time." Mitzer says "Sir, you know of Fort Stanton. That is where my men and myself are from. The fortress is also strategically located, to monitor the Warm Springs Reservation where the Mescelaro Apache now live. This man Nanuet is of the Yavapai tribe. His people are at the San Carlo Indian Reservation along with the Western Apache. Both of those groups of Apache are confined under land set aside by the government. I have no problem with Government policy toward the Indians. The issue at hand is not either of those tribes but of the one other group of Apache, the descendants of Cochise, who are in what they consider to be the land negotiated to them many years ago. The Chiricahua Apache wish to remain in the Chiricahua Mountain. An agreement had been reached where they would stay in the mountains and from human settlement provided that the army stayed out of the mountains. Your Lieutenant Gamble appears to have violated the delicate balance of that uneasy truce. This elf named Nanuet has been trusted by Cochise's successor, Geronimo, to negotiate with the appropriate Government representative, you, to reestablish the truce." Whitside says "The agreement made three months ago was that the solders would stay out of the mountains if the Apache would prevent outlaws such as the James Gang from seeking refuge there. Lieutenant Gamble only entered those mountains because the Cowboy Gang did. If the Apache are to provide safe home to criminals then they are the ones who have violated the truce, not us." Chester interjects, "What if another group went into the mountains in search of the Cowboy Gang? People not with the Army or the Apache. That way, someone is looking for the outlaws, but not stirring up the elves. Would that be OK, captain?" Whitside replies, "Ah, so you're confirming that the Cowboy Gang are being protected and harbored by the Chirichua Apace! I should have known that those redskins couldn't be trusted." Chester opens his mouth to reply, when Nanuet speaks. Nanuet manages to hold back his temper although it takes almost all of his will. He then addresses the Captain in an even measured tone. "Captain Whitside, sir. We are confirming nothing. We have not been on Apache lands recently to know if the Cowboy Gang is there or not. If the Cowboy Gang enters their lands, but moves through or are chased away, is that still a problem?” The Army commander exclaims, "Of course that's a problem! If the army is staying out and the Apache allow these criminals to use that land to escape, knowing that the Army can't chase them. So you ARE confirming that the Indians are working with the outlaws, as we suspected." Nanuet says, “I believe what Mr. Chester is proposing is that a neutral party search the area when issues such as this arise to avoid trouble." Chester says, "Thank you, Nanuet." Whitside states, "A neutral party comprised of Indians and Army deserters like Martin, I think not. This is Army business and we will handle it our way." Chester turns back to Whitside. "I have no idea if they're in Apache lands. What made you think the Cowboy Gang is there? Did anyone see them enter Apache territory?" Whitside turns to Lieutenant Gamble and says "What did you discover there?" Gamble replies, "We tracked the gang going thought those mountains. I also spoke to a prisoner in the County Jail, a Mr. Joseph Weems. He was part of the Cowboy Gang and confirmed that Geronimo allowed the gang free passage. Says that a gang member named Harvey Knowles is with Geronimo right now as his guest." Nanuet listens to the soldiers speak. He focuses on remaining calm, summoning the vision of Storm in his mind and remembering Sonoma and Kajika's teachings about patience. He says, "Again you assume much. Who said that we were to be the party that would search? You seem to have your mind set on war, I am trying to work on a solution that will maintain the peace. No one can control who rides onto land. If you can give me a chance I will speak with Geronimo and see if he truly does harbor these men. I have no love for the Cowboy gang either, they have caused much distress to my companions and me. As I have accompanied the soldiers here to speak with you, can a few of your men accompany me to speak with Geronimo? I will assure their safety. Then they can report to you first hand what they see." Captain Whitside says "Fine. I'll agree to those terms. If the Apache agree to keep the Cowboy gang and other outlaws out of the mountains then I'll keep my troops out of them as well." He then turns to the back of the room and says "Lieutenant Gamble, mount up. You and your men are riding back with these people." Nanuet is pleased that at least they have agreed to check things out first. He asks, "How many men do you propose to send? I said only a few. I don't want to incite hostilities, I want to try and keep a peaceful understanding between the two groups." Whitside replies "I'm sending a whole squadron. I'm told that the Apache are out in force, we have to show a position of strength to them! Gamble, take A Squadron with you and move out within the hour. I want to you at least make it to Tombstone by nightfall." "Yes Sir," Lieutenant Gamble replies and gives his Captain a crisp salute." [/QUOTE]
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