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Wizards, Whiskey and Wonderful Things - Concluded
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<blockquote data-quote="Silver Moon" data-source="post: 2678285" data-attributes="member: 8530"><p><strong>Chapter 67, “Purchases and Sales", Friday, March 17th, 1882, 11:00 A.M. </strong> </p><p></p><p>Katherine shook her head, walked over to Ruby, and hugged her tightly. "I told those men they were crazy, thinking you were dead. All the same, next time you feel the need to take a late night walk, get someone to go with you, hmm?" Ruby then says, "If I may ask, where is Mr. Eastman now? Does anyone know?" </p><p></p><p>Chester says, "You'll want to go down to the Marshall's. They're hosting Mr. Eastman for the time being." She says, "I'm sorry Chester, and to all of you," she looks at all her friends. "I had a bad day, what can I say? I didn't mean to make you all worry. I suppose I should go to the jail and get Mr. Eastman out. Poor guy. He was drunker than me apparently."</p><p></p><p>"You'll forgive me if I don't feel any sympathy for poor George Eastman." Jake replies in an ice cold tone. "I agree though that it probably wouldn't do to prolong Promise City thinking you were murdered." "Well, did you enjoy your time spent in jail?" Ruby sighs. "I guess he deserved it for telling everyone he killed me.. or what did he say, I was lost to him? But it's a good thing Jake, because now he will leave us alone, especially after how I embarrassed him." She gets a crooked smile on her face. She faces Jake. "What do you think I should do, leave him in there?"</p><p></p><p>Kate says, "I let the Marshall know Ruby was safe on my way here this morning, but he'll still probably want to see her. They may have to keep him there a while longer for his own safety though. We had a saloon full of patrons calling to string him up last night." Chester states, "Good thing we were guarding him here. No telling how quickly that mob would've strung him up." "Really?" Ruby smiles. "That's good to know."</p><p></p><p>Minerva interjects, "Senorita Ruby, I am glad that no harm has come to you. " Minerva walks over to Ruby and hugs her. "Perhaps it would be wise to let Helen take care of Senor Eastman. He is very persistent . If you release him he may believe that you are interested." "Good advice probably, but I think George must have the idea by now. I stood on a table and screamed that there was no way I was going to marry him." Ruby blushes slightly. "Not exactly my most eloquent moment but I think it did the trick."</p><p></p><p>"No he deserves it for making our lives miserable for the better part of a week." Jake grumbles. "Nanuet's asked if he should get over to Tombstone and tell Chumbley the right news story. I think that is a good idea, but he shouldn't go alone. Ruby needs to be seen walking around town, healthy and whole, and the Marshall needs to see that too. After that whatever he wants to do with Eastman is his business. The Lucky Lady needs to get on with business tonight, again to show everyone that Ruby West is fine. Finally, I need a bath." Jake drops himself into a chair.</p><p></p><p>She says, "That sounds like a good idea. I need to go to the jeweler and I also want to visit Laurie at the Bath House, to thank her, so I can go with you for that." She turns to Kate. "Did you manage to get any of that tea by chance?" Kate replies, "I wasn't sure what you meant, Ruby. Which tea was that?" She answers, "The one that makes the headache go away after you drank too much. Dorita has a tea for everything... Oh well, I suppose it's my punishment for making everyone worry." Kate says, "Oh, the hangover cure? That's not a tea, it's more like drinking mud. Conrad got Dorita to make it for me last Friday. Just go over to the El Parador and ask Dorita for Mr. Booth's wake up special.</p><p></p><p>"So, what is everyone doing today then? Nanuet, when are you leaving and who will go with him? The coach has already left today, no?" Ruby asks. Chester comments, "I thought Jake meant for you to go with Nanuet. Just to prove you're still among the living. If not, I can go. It shouldn't take too long." Nanuet says, "Yes the first coach has left, but Mr. Niles mentioned that it being Friday today there is a second coach. I could always ride out on horseback anyway."</p><p></p><p>Kate comments, "It's Friday, I think there's another stage today. Whoever goes will have to stay overnight in Tombstone. I don't mind going, I wanted to visit Tom anyway, but that means Ruby can't come with me. I wonder if we couldn't just send a note to Chumbley with Mr. Nevers when he goes back? Or is this one of those things we don't want to leave to anyone else?" Nanuet says, "I think Jake wanted Ruby to be around here so that people could she her in the flesh." </p><p></p><p>Kate states, "Yes, it makes sense for Ruby to be very visible for the next day or so. If Chester can go with Nanuet, I'll stay here." "Oh good, I get to go out to dinner!" Ruby laughs. "I can be visible, don't worry about that. I'll be right back." Ruby runs upstairs and grabs the ring box off the dresser. She puts it safely in her pocket and heads back downstairs. "Anyone else taking a bath today?"</p><p></p><p>"And I need some food, I'm starving!" Ruby heads to the kitchen and grabs some lunch from Maria. When Maria see her she screams and starts crying and hugging Ruby. Ruby hugs her back then hurries out of the kitchen. "Gods! What's up with her?" Ruby shakes her head then sits to eat.</p><p></p><p>Chester says, "OK. let's go, Nanuet. I just got to saddle my horse." Before Nanuet and Chester can leave, Ruby runs out after them. “Please be careful you two. I really appreciate what you are doing for me.” She smiles, reaches down her dress and pulls out some money. “Take this in case you need it.” She hands Nanuet $50. “Don’t spend it all in one place!” Giggling, she kisses each of them. “Come back soon, and safe.” </p><p></p><p>"You're welcome, Ruby. We'll be back soon. We can ride faster than the coach." She smiles again and skips back into the Lucky Lady. When Ruby goes back inside, he turns to Nanuet. "How come she gave you the money? She doesn't trust me?" he says kiddingly. Come on. Let's get a move on. We need to catch Chumbley to tell him the reports of Ruby's death were greatly exaggerated." Nanuet grabs a few supplies and heads over to the El Parador with Chester to saddle up their mounts. They head out shortly afterwards riding with purpose, hoping to make good time on the way to Tombstone.</p><p></p><p>She approaches her friends. “So, we’re all meeting tonight at the El Parador for dinner, right? 5:00? Good we’ll see you all then.” Ruby takes Jake’s hand and they exit the Lucky Lady without waiting for her friends to respond. She looks at Jake. “First the jewelers, then your bath.” They depart. </p><p></p><p>Once the excitement has died down Minerva sits back at the table With Mr. Hoover so that he may answer her question concerning the Merchants Committee meeting. Hoover replies, "I don't see why you couldn't. I would be happy to introduce you. What exactly do you want to talk to them about? Donations for your church building?"</p><p></p><p>She replies, "Senor, at the moment I don't have a church or land to build it on. I do not believe it to be the wish of the gods to throw my lot in with the Vigilance Committee. I also don't feel that what they are proposing is in the best interest of the town or it's merchants. I work for the gods Senor, with or without a church, but the people need a church and if they choose to honor the gods by building a church in which I can preach I would be amenable, otherwise I shall be content to preach on a soap box outside of the Town Hall when the occasion calls for it." </p><p></p><p>"For the moment my main interest is in Celebrating the Festival of Dionysus. It is wise to pay him his due... And he does love a good party." She smiles conspiritually. He smiles, "My favored God, but you've probably already figured that out." She says, "I would like to present this festival to the Merchants Committee as a business venture for them. They stand to gain much from this event and it would also be a chance to unify the community as well as a lot of fun" she beams. "I would appreciate it if you could set up a meeting as soon as possible since the festival must be held in early spring to insure that the crops are prosperous and the cattle multiply."</p><p></p><p>He replies, "Sounds great, I'm sure that all of the saloon owners will be in agreement. You realize that this will just exacerbate the rift between the two committees though, not that they didn't ask for it in proposing a dress code for the saloons. That topic is on Tuesday's agenda as well, which I was planning to strongly oppose. I believe that Lumley and Adair are planning to speak against it as well."</p><p></p><p>"Senor Hoover, The Vigilance committee has already sown the seeds of their demise" she smiles darkly. "They are no more than a committee of fools if they believe that they can lead where few will follow." Her mouth set in disapproval she continues "It is I, whom the gods have directed to represent them, NOT some self-serving committee who has wrongfully and arrogantly assumed the role of gods. </p><p>This public celebration of Dionysus will open the people's eyes to the truth of it. The people will see that the gods speak through me and will no longer be blinded by a committee that rules in damnation and fear. I am confident that Dionysus will provide for our success. And then we shall build a church in which ALL are welcome."</p><p></p><p>Kate sat down at the table with Mr. Hoover and Minerva. Her mind was spinning. In the last two minutes Ruby and Jake had been down, Nanuet and Chester ran off to Tombstone, and Ruby and Jake ran out. Was she the only one standing still? </p><p></p><p>She had a couple hours before she had to be back at the smelter. A little time to herself would be no bad thing. She could work out how to apologize to Dorita, for one. She was used to these outbursts from the woman, but after a long night Kate's patience had been thin. In Kate's mind all she had heard was Dorita saying "You are a burden," and that was something she had tried avoid being. </p><p></p><p>A ride would clear her head, she was already dressed for it. She'd walk past Mrs. Kelley's to get a glimpse at Ginnie and then go get Meribel. "We can talk about your festival plans at dinner," Kate said quietly to Minerva. Then she excused herself and left the saloon.</p><p></p><p>Minerva says her goodbyes and strolls back to the Comstock house to change into something more festive. With a wide smile, a happy bounce to her step , and Luna flying by her side, she returns to the El Parador to meet her new friends for dinner. "We've never had friends before, Luna. Perhaps here we can escape the past. It's a wonderful feeling not to be alone anymore."</p><p></p><p>Katherine had made a wide circle around the ranch, running and jumping Meribel in ways that would have shocked proper society in Boston. She had given up on keeping her hair neat in just minutes and let it fly out behind. She spent a couple blissful hours not thinking about anything before turning back to Promise City and the smelter. Kate tied Meribel and went inside. "Mr. Harker, how nice to see you again. Is Mr. Sewell here?" Patrick Seawell steps out from the back room, "Katherine, it is wonderful to see you again. You look well."</p><p></p><p>"Thank you. I've been out riding, I thought I'd be a mess," she laughed lightly. "I have a bit of business to discuss. Why don't we step outside and I'll tell you about it." They stepped outside and Kate said, "You might have heard what happened at the trial yesterday afternoon. About Mr. Bauer, very unfortunate business for him. It was providential for me, however. You see, I'm starting a school, and needed a building. I was able to buy his store and house yesterday, but I only need the house. A friend told me you might be interested in the store building as an office."</p><p></p><p>He replies, "Well, I have been thinking about opening an office here in town. The Seawell-Morand mine near Dos Cabezas still hasn't proven out yet but my father and I both think that it will soon. He and the workers are staying in the town of Dos Cabezas, but the seven other properties that I have purchased with Morand are centrally located to here so this would be the best place for an office. Morands have offered me land north of their compound to build but more in town sounds better. Bauer, you mean where the food market was? What price are you asking?"</p><p></p><p>"Yes, the food market. Mr. Bauer wanted $750 for the store building, but I had good fortune in getting both buildings for a good price, and I like to pass that on to friends." Kate smiled and said, "$675 would go a long way toward recouping my costs and helping me get my school set up." He says, "Sounds reasonable. And after what we went through together in January I'm not going to haggle with you. I'll take me another hour or two to finish up here then I'll stop by the bank for the money. I can meet you in say, ninety minutes, at the County Claims Office to do the paperwork."</p><p></p><p>That sounds fine, thank you. I'll have to go dig up my friend, his name is on the deed as well so we'll probably need him too. I have to say I'm pleased, I can't think of anyone I'd rather have as a neighbor." Kate took his arm and chatted pleasantly while walking to her horse, then shook his hand. "I'll see you in an hour and a half." </p><p></p><p>Katherine mounted her horse and trotted over to Mitchell Berg's office to see if the paperwork was ready. Berg talks to Kate about what she needs and then takes notes for the new paperwork for her to transfer the ownership of the store from her and Booth to Seawell, and the house to just her. He agrees to meet her at the County Claims Office an hour later. After talking with Berg Kate slipped back to the El Parador and stabled Meribel, taking the time to make sure the horse was comfortable before she went next door to fetch Conrad so they could get to the claims office on time.</p><p></p><p>Ruby and Jake head to the Jewelry store. The mention of the jewelers reminds Jake of something. He pushes the single silver earring into Ruby’s hand and says simply, "You lost something." She looks down at the earring in her hand, then reaches up to her ear. She has a horrified look on her face. “Oh my… Jake, where did you find this? I mean, thank the gods you found it, I would have been devastated to lose it.” She quickly puts it back on and breathes a sigh of relief. “Thank you,” she says simply and kisses Jake’s cheek. “Here we are!” </p><p></p><p>They head inside and Ruby approaches the man behind the counter. “Excuse me, Sir, I need to have a stone reset please.” She pulls the box with Eastman’s ring in it out of her pocket and places it in the counter. He picks up the box and looks inside. “What happened…” “Don’t ask,” Ruby interrupts. “Can you fix it?” “Sure, it’ll be a bit.” He takes the ring and heads into the back. </p><p></p><p>Ruby takes her time looking around the store. Suddenly she gasps and Jake wanders over. “Look!” She points to a ring behind the glass of the counter, a square ruby surrounded by small diamonds, set in silver. “Can I see this ring?” Ruby calls out. The man comes out from the back. “Of course Miss…” “West, Miss West. I own part of the Lucky Lady, I sing there too. And this is Mr. Cook, my boyfriend. Oh he owns part of the Lucky Lady too.” The man takes out the ring and places it on Ruby’s already outstretched finger. Of course it fits perfectly. She looks excited. “How much is it?” “This one is $170, a very good price for a beautiful ring.” Ruby’s face drops a bit and she stares at the ring before finally pulling it off. “I’ll have to think about it, thank you.” She turns to Jake, “Let’s go, we’ll come back later.” She thanks the jeweler and they head out. </p><p></p><p>Just before they go to Gilson's for a bath, Jake takes them to Lacey's. He has the shop keeper and Ruby help him select $10 worth of items as gifts for Laurie Gilson. "You've seen what she looks at when she comes in here. Not things for her business, but things to pamper herself or a special treat." He places them all in a basket and adds a simple note. 'Thank you, Jake." As they walk out Ruby comments, “Jake, you are so sweet.” </p><p></p><p>As they walk to the bath house Ruby swings the basket back and forth, smiling at people passing by. Some give her looks of surprise but she just keeps smiling and walking. “You know, it’s fun coming back from the dead!” she laughs. "You know it finally struck me what you said yesterday." Jake says suddenly to Ruby. "I don't think I've ever heard you call on Hermes before. Have I?" She laughs again. "Where did that come from? No, you haven't. I don't believe in the gods, for good reason I suppose," Ruby replies as she shrugs. "I guess I was just repeating what you say so often." She gives a little smile. "Why do you always choose that particular god anyway? I'm curious." </p><p></p><p>"Among other things, Hermes is the god that is concerned with overland travel, oratory and thieves." Jake scratches at his beard a bit before he adds, "and known for his cunning and shrewdness. What better god to have on my side?" "Hum," Ruby ponders, "Well, I guess you're right. How do you know he's on your side?" </p><p></p><p>"I don't know for sure, but it's funny." Jake rubs the back of his neck and looks a little sheepish, "I don't want to sound like the new priestess or anything...." He pauses a moment and looks away from Ruby. "Sure you can make an offering to a god or whatever, but I don't think you choose them. Do you know what I mean?" </p><p></p><p>"No, actually I don't," Ruby shrugs again, "Sorry. All I know is that I never had any signs of any gods in my life. Aren't they supposed to help you? You really believe in that stuff? That you can ask them for something and they give it to you?" </p><p></p><p>"I'm not exactly a church going guy, you've probably noticed that." Jake gives her a smirk. "I think they are real. I'm not so sure about the just ask and get stuff. I think they have their own agenda, just like us. If you are furthering their cause you get help. If not, well at best you get ignored. As far as I can tell they are a pretty fickle lot." "So why help them? Especially you, you never go around helping people who don't help you. I'm surprised Jake." "I'm not a preacher or anything. It is just a feeling. Maybe he helps me, maybe he doesn't. Maybe I'm helping him, maybe I'm not. Just hedging my bets." Jake shrugs. </p><p></p><p>“Just a feeling, huh? Just like llooovveeee,” Ruby giggles. “Just a feeling.” Jake chuckles and stops walking. They are standing in front of the bath house. They enter and are greeted again by Jules. “Is Ms. Gilson around?” Ruby inquires. “No, she ran out for a few moments, she’ll be back.” “Jake’s going to have a bath. And we’d like to talk to Laurie when she gets back please.” They wait for Jules to draw the bath, then Ruby keeps Jake company while he bathes. She rolls up her sleeves and slowly washes Jake’s back while she talks. </p><p></p><p>“You know, I’ve been thinking, what in Hades happened to us? I mean 3 ½ months ago neither of would have turned down fifty thousand dollars for anything! Fifty thousand dollars is a lot of money. I figured you could take it and live a very comfortable life. I know you said you would just blow it but think about it. You would never have to work again, just play cards whenever you felt like it. You could buy your own Kentucky bourbon distillery. You could have your own mansion and someone who could actually cook for you, making your steaks every morning just the way you like if you wished.” Ruby continues to rub Jake’s back, “I was considering accepting George’s proposal, so you could get the money and have everything you ever wanted.” </p><p></p><p>She continues quickly, “But I couldn’t do it, I am too selfish. One of my better qualities,” she laughs. “I thought about it and I would miss you so much! I would miss the way you make that little snoring noise at night, I would miss waking up next to you, you wrapped around me, your hair all a mess. The way you smell, the way you look when you are mad at me, because I can always tell you’re not really mad. The way your beard scratches my face when we kiss. The sexy way you look with your shirt off, especially when your pants fall low, your hips sticking out. The way you always pour me my drink first even when you’re really thirsty and the way you put your hand on my back when we walk. I would miss the way your eyes twinkle when you want to take me to bed and the way your cheeks are rosy after you do. The way you call me Princess…yes I would have missed you terribly,” Ruby sighs. “I only entertained that thought for about two seconds. But I’m glad any thoughts like that are over now.”</p><p></p><p>Jake replies. "Fifty thousand dollars is a lot of money. Maybe we'll make that much anyway, who knows. I told you, I'd have just blown it looking for someone like you. Except that when the money was gone I wouldn't have you." Jake is quiet for a few moments and all they hear is the splashing of the bath water before he asks, "How did you come to be Ruby instead of Constance?"</p><p></p><p>“Well, if your name was Constance would you be happy about it?” Ruby scrunches up her nose. “It’s no big deal really. One day I came home from school and I overheard my mother in the other room telling one of her friends how horrid my red hair was. And her friend said she thought it was beautiful, the color of a ruby and that she didn’t appreciate how special it was. I found out later that “friend” was my grandmother. I told you I never met her and I didn’t. I didn’t even see what she looked like that day, I only knew it was her because I heard my parents fighting later that night. She had come to see me but they sent her away. So when I left home I just introduced myself as Ruby. Seemed like it fit.” She shrugs, "And sounds much nicer that Constance. Plus," she smiles, "Red is my favorite color."</p><p></p><p>They are quiet again for a while. “The thought occurs to me that I should have more serious earlier when you were talking, you know, about us. I’m really happy you want things to change like that. I already told you, I don’t want to share you either. And I don’t want you running off and not coming back. I am yours, and only yours, I hope you know that and feel it to be true.” Ruby leans over the tub and kisses Jake. “And one more thing. I want, no I need to be able to tell you how I feel without you freaking out. Think you can handle that?” </p><p></p><p>"Me lose my cool?" Jake says with mock righteousness. "Ok, so one time I go a little crazy. As long as you warn me before you go doing stuff this poor Philadelphia boy hasn't experienced before I can handle it. Just don't expect me to tell you what I'm thinking every minute of the day though. I'll take Ruby the way she is, but it works both ways." </p><p></p><p>Ruby laughs. "All I'm saying Jake is I want to be able to tell you that I love you. I don't care if you can't say it back, but I want to be able to tell you that whenever I feel like it. And you don't always have to tell me what you think either. I know the truth." She pauses. "Besides if I want to know what you're thinking you know I can find out without you telling me," she giggles. "I'm not going to do any of that other stuff again. It wasn't very fair of me I suppose and I just don't think you're ready for it." </p><p></p><p>"I know those abilities are part of you, and I really wouldn't have it any other way. Just try not to shock me senseless, eh?" He pulls on strands of her hair that are dangling down over him in the tub. "It might be too late for the senseless part," she says giving him a fake look of surprise before she laughs and pulls back on his wet hair. </p><p></p><p>After Jake’s bath is over they wait until Laurie can see them. “Ms. Gilson, I want to thank you for taking care of me last night. You showed an extraordinary amount of kindness to me on your part. This is for you, from Jake.” She hands her the basket. “And this is from me, to pay for the bath.” She hands her a folded up bill. “I hope one of these nights you’ll stop by the Lucky Lady after work so we can treat you to a free dinner, some drinks and entertainment. I would really like it if you did.” Laurie smiles and says "Thank you very much. I can stop by tonight after we close if that is alright with you."</p><p></p><p>Ruby exclaims, "That would be wonderful. We'll be at the El Parador for dinner from 5:00pm until about 6:30pm. After that we'll be at the Lucky Lady." Ruby takes Laurie by the hands and squeezes. "I really can't thank you enough for taking care of me. I'll see you tonight." She lets go of her hands and Jake and Ruby leave, heading back to the Lucky Lady.</p><p></p><p>On the way back Jake takes them on a detour to the gun shop and purchases two double action revolvers with a medium barrel length and a double barrel shotgun. On the way back Jake explains to Ruby the conversation he had with Jeff Mills about his background, and then about what happened upstairs last night with Jeff and his friends. "Don't say anything to him yet, but I wanted you to know. Maybe we can deal with this tomorrow. Feel like taking a ride to the mine with Jeff if he still wants to?" "Sure, baby. I haven't seen the mine since the day we took that fun detour with the coach." Ruby scrunches her nose. "Maybe we'll bring some lunch with us, make a day of it."</p><p></p><p>Jake and Ruby arrive back at the Lucky Lady. Ruby gets a coffee and heads out to the front porch. She sits on the steps and it doesn't take long for the puppies to come running out. She pets and plays with them, smiling and talking with the people passing by in the street.</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Silver Moon, post: 2678285, member: 8530"] [B]Chapter 67, “Purchases and Sales", Friday, March 17th, 1882, 11:00 A.M. [/B] Katherine shook her head, walked over to Ruby, and hugged her tightly. "I told those men they were crazy, thinking you were dead. All the same, next time you feel the need to take a late night walk, get someone to go with you, hmm?" Ruby then says, "If I may ask, where is Mr. Eastman now? Does anyone know?" Chester says, "You'll want to go down to the Marshall's. They're hosting Mr. Eastman for the time being." She says, "I'm sorry Chester, and to all of you," she looks at all her friends. "I had a bad day, what can I say? I didn't mean to make you all worry. I suppose I should go to the jail and get Mr. Eastman out. Poor guy. He was drunker than me apparently." "You'll forgive me if I don't feel any sympathy for poor George Eastman." Jake replies in an ice cold tone. "I agree though that it probably wouldn't do to prolong Promise City thinking you were murdered." "Well, did you enjoy your time spent in jail?" Ruby sighs. "I guess he deserved it for telling everyone he killed me.. or what did he say, I was lost to him? But it's a good thing Jake, because now he will leave us alone, especially after how I embarrassed him." She gets a crooked smile on her face. She faces Jake. "What do you think I should do, leave him in there?" Kate says, "I let the Marshall know Ruby was safe on my way here this morning, but he'll still probably want to see her. They may have to keep him there a while longer for his own safety though. We had a saloon full of patrons calling to string him up last night." Chester states, "Good thing we were guarding him here. No telling how quickly that mob would've strung him up." "Really?" Ruby smiles. "That's good to know." Minerva interjects, "Senorita Ruby, I am glad that no harm has come to you. " Minerva walks over to Ruby and hugs her. "Perhaps it would be wise to let Helen take care of Senor Eastman. He is very persistent . If you release him he may believe that you are interested." "Good advice probably, but I think George must have the idea by now. I stood on a table and screamed that there was no way I was going to marry him." Ruby blushes slightly. "Not exactly my most eloquent moment but I think it did the trick." "No he deserves it for making our lives miserable for the better part of a week." Jake grumbles. "Nanuet's asked if he should get over to Tombstone and tell Chumbley the right news story. I think that is a good idea, but he shouldn't go alone. Ruby needs to be seen walking around town, healthy and whole, and the Marshall needs to see that too. After that whatever he wants to do with Eastman is his business. The Lucky Lady needs to get on with business tonight, again to show everyone that Ruby West is fine. Finally, I need a bath." Jake drops himself into a chair. She says, "That sounds like a good idea. I need to go to the jeweler and I also want to visit Laurie at the Bath House, to thank her, so I can go with you for that." She turns to Kate. "Did you manage to get any of that tea by chance?" Kate replies, "I wasn't sure what you meant, Ruby. Which tea was that?" She answers, "The one that makes the headache go away after you drank too much. Dorita has a tea for everything... Oh well, I suppose it's my punishment for making everyone worry." Kate says, "Oh, the hangover cure? That's not a tea, it's more like drinking mud. Conrad got Dorita to make it for me last Friday. Just go over to the El Parador and ask Dorita for Mr. Booth's wake up special. "So, what is everyone doing today then? Nanuet, when are you leaving and who will go with him? The coach has already left today, no?" Ruby asks. Chester comments, "I thought Jake meant for you to go with Nanuet. Just to prove you're still among the living. If not, I can go. It shouldn't take too long." Nanuet says, "Yes the first coach has left, but Mr. Niles mentioned that it being Friday today there is a second coach. I could always ride out on horseback anyway." Kate comments, "It's Friday, I think there's another stage today. Whoever goes will have to stay overnight in Tombstone. I don't mind going, I wanted to visit Tom anyway, but that means Ruby can't come with me. I wonder if we couldn't just send a note to Chumbley with Mr. Nevers when he goes back? Or is this one of those things we don't want to leave to anyone else?" Nanuet says, "I think Jake wanted Ruby to be around here so that people could she her in the flesh." Kate states, "Yes, it makes sense for Ruby to be very visible for the next day or so. If Chester can go with Nanuet, I'll stay here." "Oh good, I get to go out to dinner!" Ruby laughs. "I can be visible, don't worry about that. I'll be right back." Ruby runs upstairs and grabs the ring box off the dresser. She puts it safely in her pocket and heads back downstairs. "Anyone else taking a bath today?" "And I need some food, I'm starving!" Ruby heads to the kitchen and grabs some lunch from Maria. When Maria see her she screams and starts crying and hugging Ruby. Ruby hugs her back then hurries out of the kitchen. "Gods! What's up with her?" Ruby shakes her head then sits to eat. Chester says, "OK. let's go, Nanuet. I just got to saddle my horse." Before Nanuet and Chester can leave, Ruby runs out after them. “Please be careful you two. I really appreciate what you are doing for me.” She smiles, reaches down her dress and pulls out some money. “Take this in case you need it.” She hands Nanuet $50. “Don’t spend it all in one place!” Giggling, she kisses each of them. “Come back soon, and safe.” "You're welcome, Ruby. We'll be back soon. We can ride faster than the coach." She smiles again and skips back into the Lucky Lady. When Ruby goes back inside, he turns to Nanuet. "How come she gave you the money? She doesn't trust me?" he says kiddingly. Come on. Let's get a move on. We need to catch Chumbley to tell him the reports of Ruby's death were greatly exaggerated." Nanuet grabs a few supplies and heads over to the El Parador with Chester to saddle up their mounts. They head out shortly afterwards riding with purpose, hoping to make good time on the way to Tombstone. She approaches her friends. “So, we’re all meeting tonight at the El Parador for dinner, right? 5:00? Good we’ll see you all then.” Ruby takes Jake’s hand and they exit the Lucky Lady without waiting for her friends to respond. She looks at Jake. “First the jewelers, then your bath.” They depart. Once the excitement has died down Minerva sits back at the table With Mr. Hoover so that he may answer her question concerning the Merchants Committee meeting. Hoover replies, "I don't see why you couldn't. I would be happy to introduce you. What exactly do you want to talk to them about? Donations for your church building?" She replies, "Senor, at the moment I don't have a church or land to build it on. I do not believe it to be the wish of the gods to throw my lot in with the Vigilance Committee. I also don't feel that what they are proposing is in the best interest of the town or it's merchants. I work for the gods Senor, with or without a church, but the people need a church and if they choose to honor the gods by building a church in which I can preach I would be amenable, otherwise I shall be content to preach on a soap box outside of the Town Hall when the occasion calls for it." "For the moment my main interest is in Celebrating the Festival of Dionysus. It is wise to pay him his due... And he does love a good party." She smiles conspiritually. He smiles, "My favored God, but you've probably already figured that out." She says, "I would like to present this festival to the Merchants Committee as a business venture for them. They stand to gain much from this event and it would also be a chance to unify the community as well as a lot of fun" she beams. "I would appreciate it if you could set up a meeting as soon as possible since the festival must be held in early spring to insure that the crops are prosperous and the cattle multiply." He replies, "Sounds great, I'm sure that all of the saloon owners will be in agreement. You realize that this will just exacerbate the rift between the two committees though, not that they didn't ask for it in proposing a dress code for the saloons. That topic is on Tuesday's agenda as well, which I was planning to strongly oppose. I believe that Lumley and Adair are planning to speak against it as well." "Senor Hoover, The Vigilance committee has already sown the seeds of their demise" she smiles darkly. "They are no more than a committee of fools if they believe that they can lead where few will follow." Her mouth set in disapproval she continues "It is I, whom the gods have directed to represent them, NOT some self-serving committee who has wrongfully and arrogantly assumed the role of gods. This public celebration of Dionysus will open the people's eyes to the truth of it. The people will see that the gods speak through me and will no longer be blinded by a committee that rules in damnation and fear. I am confident that Dionysus will provide for our success. And then we shall build a church in which ALL are welcome." Kate sat down at the table with Mr. Hoover and Minerva. Her mind was spinning. In the last two minutes Ruby and Jake had been down, Nanuet and Chester ran off to Tombstone, and Ruby and Jake ran out. Was she the only one standing still? She had a couple hours before she had to be back at the smelter. A little time to herself would be no bad thing. She could work out how to apologize to Dorita, for one. She was used to these outbursts from the woman, but after a long night Kate's patience had been thin. In Kate's mind all she had heard was Dorita saying "You are a burden," and that was something she had tried avoid being. A ride would clear her head, she was already dressed for it. She'd walk past Mrs. Kelley's to get a glimpse at Ginnie and then go get Meribel. "We can talk about your festival plans at dinner," Kate said quietly to Minerva. Then she excused herself and left the saloon. Minerva says her goodbyes and strolls back to the Comstock house to change into something more festive. With a wide smile, a happy bounce to her step , and Luna flying by her side, she returns to the El Parador to meet her new friends for dinner. "We've never had friends before, Luna. Perhaps here we can escape the past. It's a wonderful feeling not to be alone anymore." Katherine had made a wide circle around the ranch, running and jumping Meribel in ways that would have shocked proper society in Boston. She had given up on keeping her hair neat in just minutes and let it fly out behind. She spent a couple blissful hours not thinking about anything before turning back to Promise City and the smelter. Kate tied Meribel and went inside. "Mr. Harker, how nice to see you again. Is Mr. Sewell here?" Patrick Seawell steps out from the back room, "Katherine, it is wonderful to see you again. You look well." "Thank you. I've been out riding, I thought I'd be a mess," she laughed lightly. "I have a bit of business to discuss. Why don't we step outside and I'll tell you about it." They stepped outside and Kate said, "You might have heard what happened at the trial yesterday afternoon. About Mr. Bauer, very unfortunate business for him. It was providential for me, however. You see, I'm starting a school, and needed a building. I was able to buy his store and house yesterday, but I only need the house. A friend told me you might be interested in the store building as an office." He replies, "Well, I have been thinking about opening an office here in town. The Seawell-Morand mine near Dos Cabezas still hasn't proven out yet but my father and I both think that it will soon. He and the workers are staying in the town of Dos Cabezas, but the seven other properties that I have purchased with Morand are centrally located to here so this would be the best place for an office. Morands have offered me land north of their compound to build but more in town sounds better. Bauer, you mean where the food market was? What price are you asking?" "Yes, the food market. Mr. Bauer wanted $750 for the store building, but I had good fortune in getting both buildings for a good price, and I like to pass that on to friends." Kate smiled and said, "$675 would go a long way toward recouping my costs and helping me get my school set up." He says, "Sounds reasonable. And after what we went through together in January I'm not going to haggle with you. I'll take me another hour or two to finish up here then I'll stop by the bank for the money. I can meet you in say, ninety minutes, at the County Claims Office to do the paperwork." That sounds fine, thank you. I'll have to go dig up my friend, his name is on the deed as well so we'll probably need him too. I have to say I'm pleased, I can't think of anyone I'd rather have as a neighbor." Kate took his arm and chatted pleasantly while walking to her horse, then shook his hand. "I'll see you in an hour and a half." Katherine mounted her horse and trotted over to Mitchell Berg's office to see if the paperwork was ready. Berg talks to Kate about what she needs and then takes notes for the new paperwork for her to transfer the ownership of the store from her and Booth to Seawell, and the house to just her. He agrees to meet her at the County Claims Office an hour later. After talking with Berg Kate slipped back to the El Parador and stabled Meribel, taking the time to make sure the horse was comfortable before she went next door to fetch Conrad so they could get to the claims office on time. Ruby and Jake head to the Jewelry store. The mention of the jewelers reminds Jake of something. He pushes the single silver earring into Ruby’s hand and says simply, "You lost something." She looks down at the earring in her hand, then reaches up to her ear. She has a horrified look on her face. “Oh my… Jake, where did you find this? I mean, thank the gods you found it, I would have been devastated to lose it.” She quickly puts it back on and breathes a sigh of relief. “Thank you,” she says simply and kisses Jake’s cheek. “Here we are!” They head inside and Ruby approaches the man behind the counter. “Excuse me, Sir, I need to have a stone reset please.” She pulls the box with Eastman’s ring in it out of her pocket and places it in the counter. He picks up the box and looks inside. “What happened…” “Don’t ask,” Ruby interrupts. “Can you fix it?” “Sure, it’ll be a bit.” He takes the ring and heads into the back. Ruby takes her time looking around the store. Suddenly she gasps and Jake wanders over. “Look!” She points to a ring behind the glass of the counter, a square ruby surrounded by small diamonds, set in silver. “Can I see this ring?” Ruby calls out. The man comes out from the back. “Of course Miss…” “West, Miss West. I own part of the Lucky Lady, I sing there too. And this is Mr. Cook, my boyfriend. Oh he owns part of the Lucky Lady too.” The man takes out the ring and places it on Ruby’s already outstretched finger. Of course it fits perfectly. She looks excited. “How much is it?” “This one is $170, a very good price for a beautiful ring.” Ruby’s face drops a bit and she stares at the ring before finally pulling it off. “I’ll have to think about it, thank you.” She turns to Jake, “Let’s go, we’ll come back later.” She thanks the jeweler and they head out. Just before they go to Gilson's for a bath, Jake takes them to Lacey's. He has the shop keeper and Ruby help him select $10 worth of items as gifts for Laurie Gilson. "You've seen what she looks at when she comes in here. Not things for her business, but things to pamper herself or a special treat." He places them all in a basket and adds a simple note. 'Thank you, Jake." As they walk out Ruby comments, “Jake, you are so sweet.” As they walk to the bath house Ruby swings the basket back and forth, smiling at people passing by. Some give her looks of surprise but she just keeps smiling and walking. “You know, it’s fun coming back from the dead!” she laughs. "You know it finally struck me what you said yesterday." Jake says suddenly to Ruby. "I don't think I've ever heard you call on Hermes before. Have I?" She laughs again. "Where did that come from? No, you haven't. I don't believe in the gods, for good reason I suppose," Ruby replies as she shrugs. "I guess I was just repeating what you say so often." She gives a little smile. "Why do you always choose that particular god anyway? I'm curious." "Among other things, Hermes is the god that is concerned with overland travel, oratory and thieves." Jake scratches at his beard a bit before he adds, "and known for his cunning and shrewdness. What better god to have on my side?" "Hum," Ruby ponders, "Well, I guess you're right. How do you know he's on your side?" "I don't know for sure, but it's funny." Jake rubs the back of his neck and looks a little sheepish, "I don't want to sound like the new priestess or anything...." He pauses a moment and looks away from Ruby. "Sure you can make an offering to a god or whatever, but I don't think you choose them. Do you know what I mean?" "No, actually I don't," Ruby shrugs again, "Sorry. All I know is that I never had any signs of any gods in my life. Aren't they supposed to help you? You really believe in that stuff? That you can ask them for something and they give it to you?" "I'm not exactly a church going guy, you've probably noticed that." Jake gives her a smirk. "I think they are real. I'm not so sure about the just ask and get stuff. I think they have their own agenda, just like us. If you are furthering their cause you get help. If not, well at best you get ignored. As far as I can tell they are a pretty fickle lot." "So why help them? Especially you, you never go around helping people who don't help you. I'm surprised Jake." "I'm not a preacher or anything. It is just a feeling. Maybe he helps me, maybe he doesn't. Maybe I'm helping him, maybe I'm not. Just hedging my bets." Jake shrugs. “Just a feeling, huh? Just like llooovveeee,” Ruby giggles. “Just a feeling.” Jake chuckles and stops walking. They are standing in front of the bath house. They enter and are greeted again by Jules. “Is Ms. Gilson around?” Ruby inquires. “No, she ran out for a few moments, she’ll be back.” “Jake’s going to have a bath. And we’d like to talk to Laurie when she gets back please.” They wait for Jules to draw the bath, then Ruby keeps Jake company while he bathes. She rolls up her sleeves and slowly washes Jake’s back while she talks. “You know, I’ve been thinking, what in Hades happened to us? I mean 3 ½ months ago neither of would have turned down fifty thousand dollars for anything! Fifty thousand dollars is a lot of money. I figured you could take it and live a very comfortable life. I know you said you would just blow it but think about it. You would never have to work again, just play cards whenever you felt like it. You could buy your own Kentucky bourbon distillery. You could have your own mansion and someone who could actually cook for you, making your steaks every morning just the way you like if you wished.” Ruby continues to rub Jake’s back, “I was considering accepting George’s proposal, so you could get the money and have everything you ever wanted.” She continues quickly, “But I couldn’t do it, I am too selfish. One of my better qualities,” she laughs. “I thought about it and I would miss you so much! I would miss the way you make that little snoring noise at night, I would miss waking up next to you, you wrapped around me, your hair all a mess. The way you smell, the way you look when you are mad at me, because I can always tell you’re not really mad. The way your beard scratches my face when we kiss. The sexy way you look with your shirt off, especially when your pants fall low, your hips sticking out. The way you always pour me my drink first even when you’re really thirsty and the way you put your hand on my back when we walk. I would miss the way your eyes twinkle when you want to take me to bed and the way your cheeks are rosy after you do. The way you call me Princess…yes I would have missed you terribly,” Ruby sighs. “I only entertained that thought for about two seconds. But I’m glad any thoughts like that are over now.” Jake replies. "Fifty thousand dollars is a lot of money. Maybe we'll make that much anyway, who knows. I told you, I'd have just blown it looking for someone like you. Except that when the money was gone I wouldn't have you." Jake is quiet for a few moments and all they hear is the splashing of the bath water before he asks, "How did you come to be Ruby instead of Constance?" “Well, if your name was Constance would you be happy about it?” Ruby scrunches up her nose. “It’s no big deal really. One day I came home from school and I overheard my mother in the other room telling one of her friends how horrid my red hair was. And her friend said she thought it was beautiful, the color of a ruby and that she didn’t appreciate how special it was. I found out later that “friend” was my grandmother. I told you I never met her and I didn’t. I didn’t even see what she looked like that day, I only knew it was her because I heard my parents fighting later that night. She had come to see me but they sent her away. So when I left home I just introduced myself as Ruby. Seemed like it fit.” She shrugs, "And sounds much nicer that Constance. Plus," she smiles, "Red is my favorite color." They are quiet again for a while. “The thought occurs to me that I should have more serious earlier when you were talking, you know, about us. I’m really happy you want things to change like that. I already told you, I don’t want to share you either. And I don’t want you running off and not coming back. I am yours, and only yours, I hope you know that and feel it to be true.” Ruby leans over the tub and kisses Jake. “And one more thing. I want, no I need to be able to tell you how I feel without you freaking out. Think you can handle that?” "Me lose my cool?" Jake says with mock righteousness. "Ok, so one time I go a little crazy. As long as you warn me before you go doing stuff this poor Philadelphia boy hasn't experienced before I can handle it. Just don't expect me to tell you what I'm thinking every minute of the day though. I'll take Ruby the way she is, but it works both ways." Ruby laughs. "All I'm saying Jake is I want to be able to tell you that I love you. I don't care if you can't say it back, but I want to be able to tell you that whenever I feel like it. And you don't always have to tell me what you think either. I know the truth." She pauses. "Besides if I want to know what you're thinking you know I can find out without you telling me," she giggles. "I'm not going to do any of that other stuff again. It wasn't very fair of me I suppose and I just don't think you're ready for it." "I know those abilities are part of you, and I really wouldn't have it any other way. Just try not to shock me senseless, eh?" He pulls on strands of her hair that are dangling down over him in the tub. "It might be too late for the senseless part," she says giving him a fake look of surprise before she laughs and pulls back on his wet hair. After Jake’s bath is over they wait until Laurie can see them. “Ms. Gilson, I want to thank you for taking care of me last night. You showed an extraordinary amount of kindness to me on your part. This is for you, from Jake.” She hands her the basket. “And this is from me, to pay for the bath.” She hands her a folded up bill. “I hope one of these nights you’ll stop by the Lucky Lady after work so we can treat you to a free dinner, some drinks and entertainment. I would really like it if you did.” Laurie smiles and says "Thank you very much. I can stop by tonight after we close if that is alright with you." Ruby exclaims, "That would be wonderful. We'll be at the El Parador for dinner from 5:00pm until about 6:30pm. After that we'll be at the Lucky Lady." Ruby takes Laurie by the hands and squeezes. "I really can't thank you enough for taking care of me. I'll see you tonight." She lets go of her hands and Jake and Ruby leave, heading back to the Lucky Lady. On the way back Jake takes them on a detour to the gun shop and purchases two double action revolvers with a medium barrel length and a double barrel shotgun. On the way back Jake explains to Ruby the conversation he had with Jeff Mills about his background, and then about what happened upstairs last night with Jeff and his friends. "Don't say anything to him yet, but I wanted you to know. Maybe we can deal with this tomorrow. Feel like taking a ride to the mine with Jeff if he still wants to?" "Sure, baby. I haven't seen the mine since the day we took that fun detour with the coach." Ruby scrunches her nose. "Maybe we'll bring some lunch with us, make a day of it." Jake and Ruby arrive back at the Lucky Lady. Ruby gets a coffee and heads out to the front porch. She sits on the steps and it doesn't take long for the puppies to come running out. She pets and plays with them, smiling and talking with the people passing by in the street. [/QUOTE]
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