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

[Silver Moon]

Chapter Forty-one, “The Seagrams visit the Ranch”, Sunday, May 28th, 1882, 12:30 P.M.

Dorita walks into the Marshall's Office with a wicker basket filled with food for Chester, Neal as well as the prisoners. She chides Chester "You get too used to Maria's cooking. You not come to El Parador enough. Bring that pretty girl with you and come soon." "But, Dorita, she learned from the best." He smiles and adds, "But we will try to come by as soon as we can. How about tonight?"

Chester speaks with the Indians, "So why did you fellows take the animals? Don't you have your own on the reservation?" The spokesman for the Indians stands defiantly and says "We have no reservation. We have no tribe. Indians can not take from white men, all that white man claims is theirs belongs to the Indians."

Chester chews over the words for a bit. "Don't act so high and mighty. I don't know if you noticed, but one of us white men died protecting you. He didn't have to stand on that porch. He could have let the mob take you and stretch your necks. Instead he died and you get a trial. If you don't give me something, Judge Isby is going to hang you all. Why didn't you buy food? You're wearing clothes like ours. You must have money."

Pakesso says, "All that we had were the two horses, the firearms that you took and the clothes on our backs. We were going to Mexico but were hungry and needed nourishment before going into the dessert. This land was Cochise's land, Apache land, you white men took it from the Indian."
Chester replies, "It didn't look like you were using it. No towns or houses anywhere. How were we supposed to know?"

Pakesso says, "White men are all murderers and thieves. All that you bring is death and destruction. You do not belong here. But you personally I will give a chance to show your gratitude to the Indian race. Unlock this door and let us go now." Chester replies, "You must think I'm some sort of idiot. What I am going to do is sit down in this chair. You can stand there all you want, but the next time you're on this side of those bars is to go to trial."

Kate’s family drove toward the ranch. "Miss Florencia's services are unusual, aren't they?" Fredrich said. "She was impassioned today about what happened at the jail, but I imagine the manner of her services is always a bit different." "I wouldn't really know Papa, I haven't attended any," Kate said simply. "But my understanding is that she is little concerned with the outward show and power collecting of the organized church. She seeks to serve the gods, not the men who claim to represent them."

"It's refreshing, and what a town like this needs. I thought you might have attended a service or two just to support your friend," Fredrich said. "No," Kate answered quietly without further explanation. Although they had not gone out of their way to avoid each other, neither had they sought each other out since their confrontation in Thomaswell. She'd been surprised to find Miss Florencia at her house yesterday, although the topic of conversation explained that.

Luckily the ranch buildings came into view a few moments later. Phil whistled and said, "Wow, Kit. You're a lot farther along here than I imagined." Kate replies, "That's Sonoma's doing. I helped as I could, but try to picture me building a house and you can imagine how much of the work she did. You'll meet her in a few minutes."

They pulled up alongside the corral and climbed down from the buggy. A moment later Sonoma came out of the barn to greet them. Kate made the introductions, noting the awestruck look on Phil's face as he saw the lovely elf. "We'll be here all day," Kate told her friend. "So you'll have plenty of help. We have a lot to discuss too. I'm sorry it took me so long to come out, but I'm sure you've heard all about the incorporation meeting and have your own thoughts about it. We're going down to Tom's tree for a little while, then we can have a good visit."

She led her family down to Tom's final gravesite under the shade of the tree next to the cheerily babbling brook. A stillness fell over the family as they arrived, but it was more of reverence than grief. As always, Kate knelt down next to the marker and ran her hand over it. Henry came to stand behind her and rested his hand on her shoulder. The sounds of her family's prayers washed over and comforted her, and it seemed almost as if Tom was there among them. They spent nearly half an hour there, each in their own thoughts but united in the love they had for each other and the member of their family who'd been lost.

Kate finally rose and led them all back to the ranch buildings and into her own little house there. A few minutes later Sonoma joined them and helped Kate attempt to make a light lunch. Once they were all seated and served Kate asked her friend, "So, what is your opinion about if we should place the ranch inside town limits?" Sonoma is evasive, and suggests that Kate ask Nanuet and Flint what they want to do. The Seagram's are impressed as Kate walks them around the ranch, showing them the various corrals and the livestock. She sees Flint off in the distance, near the furthest horse corral over by the stream.

"Come meet Flint," she said and smiled. "His manners are... unusual, so don't be surprised. He's a good man though." Kate led her group over to the dwarf and made the introductions. After everyone was acquainted, Kate repeated the question she'd asked Sonoma, asking what Flint's opinion was about being in town limits.
He says, "That's fine with me. But that's not what I wanted to talk to you about. I think we've got us a problem." Kate replies, "What kind of problem? I'm guessing you're not referring to what's going on in town?" "Could be related," Flint says. He gestures out into the corral and says, "The problem's with that there horse"

Kate looks out and see that he is pointing to an Appaloosa gelding. The animal looks to be well tended to but she does not remember having it before. She then remembers when she last saw him....three days earlier in Tombstone. It was the horse name 'Chico' that Wyatt Earp had ridden off upon. She walked over to the animal and stroked it's mane with a shaking hand. "When did this horse show up?" she asked Flint, who had followed her over. Looking back she could see her father's eyes widen, also recognizing the animal.

Flint replies, "It's owner dropped it off this morning. The saddle is over in the cave. Gave me a $ 100 bill for boarding. Ordered me to not to ask any questions or tell anybody." "Too bad he didn't know that you don't take orders," Kate said with an approving nod. "Why in the world would Wyatt Earp choose to leave his horse here of all places? Why is he here at all? He must have known whose ranch this is."

Henry exclaims, "Wyatt Earp?" Flint says, "Yep, plain as day. Don't think that I feel that I owe him any favors, he wouldn't do a thing about finding Pete's killer back when he was Marshall."
Henry interjects, "Favors....that's why Kate, he thinks you owe him now for his saving me. That bastard!"

Kate gritted her teeth and said, "We owe him nothing! I was silent in Tombstone because I was grateful, but that's as much as I will do for him. But if he was trying to take advantage of me, why tell Flint not to tell anyone? Flint says, "I think he meant anybody other than the owners. Sonoma clearly noticed his arrival and departure too, she missing nothing."

Kate states, “Flint, if he comes back don't give him any indication you spoke to me, just let him collect his horse and go. He's very close to the edge of madness if he hasn't already slipped over. I'll keep my eyes open for him in town. The sooner this animal and any trace of him are gone, the better. I'll talk to Chester Martin as well. He's a friend and a Deputy, so no one will be able to say we didn't report it." Flint adds "Just be careful who he tells, we're a little isolated out here, too easy a target for a madman shootist if he decides to come after us."

"Chester is used to having to keep my secrets, he knows how to handle it. I'll come out and stay in the house here tonight just in case. He shouldn't have any reason to harm you or Sonoma unless things have gone terribly wrong in town." Kate let do of a deep breath and looked over at her family. "I had planned to spend the day here, now I'm not sure what I should do. There were Cowboy Gang members in that mob last night, perhaps Earp is after them?"

Flint says, "Well in that case I don't mind helping him. After what them Cowboys did to Pete I want to see every last one of them wiped from this planet. Come to think of it, Earp might know that too, that might be why it thought it was safe bringing that horse to me."

Phil glared and said, "How can you say that after..." "Phil!" Kate interrupted. She turned back to Flint. "You might be right, or it could be any number of things. I have no idea what goes on in that madman's brain. Just don't get him angry with you. The Cowboy Gang aren't the only people he's tried to hurt."

Flint replies, "Hell, I'd never get him angry, I've heard what he does to folks he doesn't like. And it's not like we can't use the hundred dollars, Sonoma has a long list of things that we still need to get for the summer." Kate states, "What do we need? I can probably do something about it since I can't seem to be much help otherwise. I know Sonoma wanted me to start the school, but I don't know how I'll find time to help here once I start teaching."

Flint replies, "She just needs some more supplies that's all, you can ask her. This influx of cash should take care of it, I didn't get the impression that he was looking to be getting any change back." He then looks over to her brothers and says, "Henry and Phil huh, nice to meet the two of you. I'm Flint Greymountain. Come with me boys, I'd like to show you my digging machine and what I've found so far using it."

"A digging machine?" Phil asked, curiosity lighting up his face. He and Henry followed the dwarf while Phil continued asking questions. "What have you found?" Kate turned to her parents. "I should go ask Sonoma about what she needs. I'm afraid we'll have to go back to town early. The others should know Wyatt Earp is skulking about. If you wanted to stay I could ride back and you could come in the buggy later. Perhaps you'd like to take a drive while I talk to Sonoma. You could get a good look at the whole 200 acres that way."

Frederick says that sounds fine. About one-third of the land has been used thus far for the ranch and farm. Kate points out to him the not-too-obvious but still visible stone and stick pointers that Sonoma has placed to mark off the specific acres owned by them but not yet cultivated. Frederick and Amelie head off for their ride. As Kate finds and approaches Sonoma.

Sonoma says, "Kate Hello! I have been busy but wanting to talk to you. I know that Flint taking that horse is risky but we are going to need some things with the population explosion in the stock that we are about to have and the money will come in handy.

I'm going to need more fencing to separate the pastures we haven't. And we really don't have all of the tools we are going to need to make this ranch work. I want to get ice and make one of the caves an ice house for when we need to start thinking about slaughter. We also need canning jars and paraffin wax and some big pots for canning if we are going to make this place self sufficient.

I also want to look into actually planting some crops in the grazed areas and we need the equipment to hay for winter. All of the animals will birth this year so we are looking at least 100% increase in numbers and with the fertility some are going to give us multiple births. We may need to think about hiring cowboys to drive spare stock to a bigger city with a butcher about November, I'm just not sure how fast Promise city will grow and if we end up flooding the market with beef and lamb we will loose our profit margin.

I'm also not sure what to do with the horses they will all birth also. Is there a market for them in Promise City? Do we need someone to break them or can we sell them green? I also need to put up a place for Ginnie to gather and save her components where they will not be found easily. A lot of things can be placed in the kitchen but there needs to be a "cook house" for the experiments. I would also like to talk to my grandfather about finding a way to create a trade with New Orleans. We are able to grow and package components that can't be easily obtained but I want to keep that part of the business further away from my home than Promise city."

"It might have been more dangerous for Flint not to take the horse. It might even be good that it's here. Earp won't be able to sneak off without us knowing he's left. We should be able to get all the canning equipment in town, but it sounds like a lot of work for just you to do. I'll help doing whatever I can. I can at least boil water and cut things up if I can't do the hard work. And I'd bet we could get Meagan O'Hara to help out for a share in the product. Meat to help her family through the winter and canned foods would go a long way for them.

The idea about the caves should work wonderfully, it's always so chilly in there and with the ice the meat would keep well. And I happen to like the idea of having ice at our disposal just to keep our drinks cold," she smiled.

"I don't think the market in Promise City will absorb too many horses, unless the town keeps growing quickly. They'll be worth more broken, something I plan to spend the time after school and on Saturdays doing. But I might need to also start teaching someone else to do it. If we are gong to have that many foals I won't be able to do it all myself.

For Ginnie's components, I would suggest an underground room with a sod trap-door, but you need a place for smoke to escape when doing experiments. Believe me, I've learned that studying chemistry. The problem with an outbuilding is once we have strangers working for us, they could wander in. Maybe we should keep it close to the house to indicate it's private? I love your idea about New Orleans; it would make Ginnie feel proud to make a contribution and that way she could without having to deal with horses.

It's early enough that we should be able to order the haying equipment. Although we might want to check with the other ranches and see what they have. Mr. Shaw has invited our ranch to join the new Cattleman's Association. I wanted to ask your opinion about that too. They are thinking of trying to work within the Vigilance Committee to moderate them, which I don't like. But it seems a foolish business decision to turn them down considering they help they might offer us.
Thank heaven for you, Sonoma. I wouldn't have thought of half these things."

Kate and Sonoma continued to talk for the better part of an hour, and Kate was feeling much better about everything when she finally went to change and help with chores. Whatever Wyatt Earp was doing here, it was unlikely to have anything to do with her. He'd made it clear in Tombstone that he wished herself and her family no harm. If there were members of the Cowboy Gang still around, and the burned man she'd seen last night suggested there were, that would explain his presence. Still, she planned to keep her eyes open for the man. His mind was too unhinged to be left to his own devices.

Her parents were still gone, but her brothers were outside a corral looking at the horses when she came out of her house ready to work. "So what did Flint find with his digging machine?" she asked as she joined them. Flint hears them and says "I've made three separate diggings now, each going down around 100 feet."

He then brings her over to six different piles of rocks, the largest a stack around five feet high and the smallest being around six inches high. They all appear to be granite although there are streaks of other metals in each. Flint says, "This land is rich in minerals. The metal in the greatest quantity is lead, followed by copper and then zinc. I've found these at various different levels." He then draws her attention to the three smallest piles. "This pile has traces of gold and this one has traces of silver."

He then points to the smallest pile and says, "And this last group has traces of Wolfram, also known by the name of Tungsten. It is generally not considered as valuable as silver, gold and platinum to most since it does not look pretty in jewelry. It is a very dense metal that is hard to use due to the very high melting point. But that also makes it quite important to one group of people, wizards. You see, Wolfram is an extremely dense metal that has the highest melting point and highest tensile strength of any known metal. It has to be heated to over six-thousand degrees to melt and is also immune to corrosion and most acids. It is the most prized material for the creation of magical wands and rods."

Kate stared in silence at the piles for a moment. It was entirely possible there was a fortune for the taking under their land. "Copper and Zinc are valuable in chemical experiments, and we all know lead to be quite useful." She reached down and touched the metal Flint called Wolfram. "How hard would it be to get all this metal out of the ground? Would the cost be prohibitive? And what do you know of Wizards, Flint?" she smiled.

He replies, "I don't know a damned thing about wizards, but I know metals and who to sell them too. You won't find any wizards here in the United States but Mexico is supposed to have some, maybe Pedro could make some inquiries. As to getting out the ore, there really isn't much here, most of this is just granite. But I'll keep working at it."

"A lot of people value granite as well, we should probably remember that," Kate said. Phil smiled wide. "Thanks for showing us your machine Flint. I might have to come back out this week and see what else you're doing out here." Henry and Phil pitched in and helped Kate with the chores. They admired the horses, the cattle, the buildings. Kate tried not to laugh as the boys broke a sweat and started breathing heavy long before she did.

Once her parents returned and rested, the workers got themselves cleaned up and they all got back into the buggy and went back to town. The day passed quietly until evening came and Kate once again put on a black dress, once again wishing it did not happen so often. Ginnie was dressed in one of her new dresses, also black, and the two walked over to the Lucky Lady.

At 6:00 PM Harry Rote and Job Kane are both wearing dark suits and have greeted the first people to arrive. Thom is staying out of the way and also wearing dark clothing. Maria is in black dress with black veil. A framed photograph of Niles Hoover is sitting on the bar.

When Kate enters she sees Stanley Barker, Helen Barker, Emery Shaw, Burton Lumley, Steve Lord, Don Wainwright and Sandra Wainwright are already there. As Kate came in she hugged Harry and kissed his cheek, then repeated the process with Maria. "Is there anything I can do to help?" she asked. Harry nods his head no and thanks Kate for being there. Job tells Kate "You way want to play the piano some to help relax the folks.

Within the next half hour they are joined by Michael and Patrick Seawell. Michael is accompanied by his lady love Julia Barbeau. Nate and Mollie Caudell then arrive in the company of Henry Pleasants. Other arrivals include Sam Slade, Henry Weller, Grant Keebler and Tony Lucky wearing nicer clothing than Kate ever saw him in.

Helen and Eduardo relieve Chester and Neil Cassidy at the office. Chester says, "Evening, you two. It's been pretty quiet around here." He gestures towards the prisoners. "These fellows aren't giving us much. Just that were on their way to Mexico and stole the animals on the way. But that's the judge's problem. Have a good night. Neil, I'll see you at the wake. I'm getting Clarisse, then I'll be over."

Helen reminds them, "Don't forget to stay away from the Palace tonight. We don't want any trouble to flare up. You hear?" Both men nod. Chester says, "I got it. No stirring things up."

Chester stops by the Double Eagle to escort Clarisse to the Lucky Lady. She comes down in a simple black dress. She says in a quiet voice, "I haven't worn this since my father died." "It's fine. What's more important is that you'll be there. When we get there, I need to change. Are you going to be OK?" She says, "I will. It's just so sad. He was so young to go like that." Chester says, "He did it for what he believed in."

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter Forty-two, “Heading Home”, Sunday, May 28th, 1882, 9:00 A.M.

Ruby’s bag hits every step as she makes her way back to the dining area and Mr. Gonzales. She plops sullenly into the chair next to him. "Are you coming back with us?" A waiter comes over with a plate and some coffee but Ruby turns her head and pushes it away. "I'm not hungry."

He replies, "Actually no, in the last two hours I've gone from Europe to Promise City to Tucson. I think I'll stay put for a little while now. I also have some letters to mail for Madge that a fairly local postmark would be helpful to have on them, especially if Wyatt Earp ties to find her. The Tucson Post Office is closed today but I can mail them here first thing tomorrow. By then I'll also have my transportation spell back so I should be back home some time tomorrow morning. Plus there is some shopping that I'd like to do while I'm here."

"What were you doing in Europe?" Ruby asks, glad to be distracted. "And what kind of shopping do you have to do here? What's going on with Madge?" He replies, "Madge is now there, safe and sound. Please do not repeat that, I've gone to quite an effort to get her where Mr. Earp will not find her and it is best if he thinks she is still in the region. The shopping is just for some local items for my workshop, nothing magical, I got those while I was away."

"Lucky her," Ruby mutters. "I'm jealous." She pauses, "I won't tell anyone, I don't want her to get hurt. You never know what that Wyatt will do. But we do know he'll be in Promise City, since I invited Josie to help with the stupid play. Another one of my smart decisions," she rolls her eyes.
She looks Gonzales in the eyes, "Really though, thank you for coming here. I wasn't sure you would, and I was worried."

He replies, "The only thing that could keep me from one of my little birds in need is another little bird needing me more. In this case getting Madge away from Earp's guns was my top priority. And as for the play, I am very much looking forward to seeing you on stage as Juliet. And I have never seen Conrad Booth more excited."

Ruby smiles sadly. "Yes, I know he is. And that's a good thing I guess." She pulls some hair off her face and shrugs, "Suddenly not in the mood to do it any more." She attempts to change the subject. "Where will you stay while you are in Tucson? Will you stay here?"

He replies, "Here? Most certainly not, I do not follow the gods worshipped here although I do believe in their existence. I may stop by later though to speak to Mr. Van Horne. He spoke briefly of wanting to hire me to assist with some upcoming poker tournament that he is sponsoring. Don't worry, I have friends elsewhere in the city who I can visit with. I haven't seen them since January when I brought Jake here and joined up with Maggie Whipple." "Oh." Ruby is quiet for a moment. "It's always good to see friends."

She then asks, "What does Van Horne want you to do with the poker tournament?" Gonzales replies, "To make sure there isn't any magical cheating going on I suppose. He's known that I could detect that ever since I caught him doing so himself at the El Parador last November. He and I came to an understanding at that point in time. Interesting that he and Jake are now getting along, I didn't think they liked each other."

Ruby doesn't directly answer Gonzales. "Well, all I know is that Jake lost a share of the Lucky Lady to him, so we might be seeing him around Promise City more. Now since my friend Jane hates me I don't know how much we'll be coming back here anyway." Ruby puts her head on Gonzales shoulder. "I just wish I could find a place where there wasn't all these problems."

Jake is descending down the staircase when he sees Cornelius Van Horne climbing up them. Van Horne glances at the bags and says in his thick Georgia accent "I see that you're leaving us. Good travels to you Mr. Cooke." Jake replies, "Thank you. I suspect you have heard of the unfortunate events in Promise City. I am afraid I must attend to them. Wire me and let me know about the tournament. I trust all went to your satisfaction last night?" Jake contemplates saying more, but decides against it.

Van Horne replies, "Last night proved to be very profitable for us all. I will keep in touch about the tournament. We'll hold it in a few weeks if I can get a hold of the right people by then." "Very good sir. Until then. Have a care with your long term investment decisions; make quite certain you have put your resources in a compatible portfolio before making any commitments." Jake nods politely and continues down the stairs.

Ruby spends some time in silence with her head on Gonzales shoulder. Finally she speaks, "What do you think will happen with the election? Do you think there will be more people trying to kill each other?" He says, "Perhaps, but Judge Isby is in charge and I've never known that man to tolerate any improper behavior from anybody. You should have faith in him to square things away."

"You're right. I haven't even thought about him in all this." She lifts up her face and looks at Gonzales. "Did you know I meet him for dinners? He takes me to the Promise City Hotel. Something strange happened with him lately, he says he feels a lot younger all of a sudden. He even looks younger. Maybe he found the fountain of youth. I'd like to know his secret."

Gonzales replies, "I think that most of the town knows of your dinners with him. As for getting younger, there are a number of magics that can accomplish that but using those are not without great dangers. I would hope that Isby would be wise enough to avoid those risks."

Once downstairs Jake tells Ruby and Gonzalez that he is ready to go. He also makes arrangements with Richard to have the trunk delivered to the train with them. Gonzales leaves with them, telling Jake he will be staying in Tucson for the day. Richard sends two workers to drive them to the train depot in a carriage owned by the business. It is fortunate that the men are along to help, as Jake and Ruby barely make it to the train before it departs to Tombstone, and would have missed it if Jake had been forced to deal with the trunk by himself.

After rushing onto the train Jake and Ruby have to walk through a couple of cars to find a seat. They find an empty row and Ruby plops herself down in the window seat. Her body is turned slightly away from Jake, her gaze set out of the window. She pulls her knees up to her chest and rests her head against the window. She doesn’t speak to Jake the whole ride, but she doesn’t sleep either, she just stares.

They arrive in the Tombstone station, or what was the Tombstone station, which is now just a large tent. They get off the train and Ruby stares off into the town as Jake arranges to have their belongings and the trunk delivered to the Wells Fargo Office. The western part of town is in essence gone, completely burnt to the ground. Ruby blinks, not believing what she is seeing until Jake comes up next to her and mutters, “Mierda.”

http://ferncanyonpress.com/tombston/wyatt/fire82.shtml

They stand in silence for a while until Jake mentions being hungry. He guides Ruby to Big Nose’s Kate’s. Jake orders lunch for both of them. When it arrives he digs in and she just plays with her food. He gives her a concerned glance but doesn’t say anything to her, finishing his lunch.

Finally Ruby speaks, her voice low. “I don’t have anything black. I need to get something to wear.” Jake nods and they head to whatever clothing store they can find standing. Without thought Ruby chooses a black dress, something between appropriate and what she would choose to wear. She also chooses a lacy veil for her hair. She wasn’t exactly sure of the proper etiquette of funerals these days but it was the best she could do.

After their two hour layover Jake and Ruby get on the stage. The ride is uneventful, with Ruby again keeping to herself. After the uncomfortable traveling day they arrive, tired and dirty back in Promise City. Ruby takes her bag and heads right to their house, leaving Jake to deal with the trunk.

After Ruby dumps her bag in their room she quickly gathers a simple dress and returns downstairs where Jake has just entered. She doesn't make eye contact with him she just says, "I'm going to take a bath before..." her voice trails off and she doesn't finish her thought. "I'll be back soon."
She pushes past Jake and heads to Gilson's.

Laurie Gilson greets Ruby and orders Jules Huerta to go and prepare a bath for her. "It is good to see you again, I had heard that you were out of town," Laurie states. Ruby gives her a small smile. "I was, I just got back. I was attempting to have a relaxing vacation. I suppose I should accept that relaxing isn't a part of my life anymore." She faces Laurie. "How are you doing? I haven't seen you in a while."

She says, "I've been seeing a lot of Judge Lacey lately, and since he won't enter a saloon we can't visit with you. That is truly too bad, I know he would love to hear the Barkers play on Saturdays. I understand the promise to his wife, but it was his drinking to excess that she was concerned about, not physically being inside of a building. I wish I could convince him of that. Oh well, at least the Silver Dollar Restaurant will soon be an alternative to go to instead of just the Promise City Hotel. Not that I mind Mrs. Smith's cooking, it is excellent, I would just like some variety for a change."

"A man who keeps his promises is rare, Laurie, just remember that." Ruby looks a bit uncomfortable but keeps the smile on her face. "It's probably for the best about not visiting me. I don't think Mr. Lacey would really want to anyway. We had a... ah... not very smooth start to our relationship." She smiles and says, "Yes, I've heard about that infatuation. But I see that you've now moved on to being with another elderly Judge."

Ruby bites back the real remark she wants to make. "Infatuation? He asked ME out. I was trying to be friendly since I know he was lonely." She has a sharp tone in her voice. "As for Judge Isby, that is my business. Laurie, you know I'm with Jake." She smiles and says, "Of course I do my dear, Mr. Cook is a wonderful man. I hear that his Silver Mine hasn't been very successful yet but I'm sure that fortune might change."

"He doesn't need money for me to love him." Ruby softens a bit before continuing, "I'm sorry Laurie, I'm just feeling very strained right now... and upset. I had a long day traveling and my trip cut short with such bad news...I didn't mean to yell at you. I am very glad you are finding company with Judge. You deserve it."

She says, "I understand, I am under a strain myself too. I'm not sure exactly what you heard about what happened last night, but Judge Lacey was a part of it. He and his soldier friends helped to restore order, but that awful Ike Sherman made an implied threat at Judge. I'm so sorry about poor Mr. Hoover. I will be by this evening for the wake. Judge won't be able to attend due to his promise but he does plan to attend the funeral tomorrow."

"What time is the wake, Laurie?" Laurie says, "I don't know the time for the wake, the newspaper just said tonight at the Lucky Lady. I'm assuming it will be for the entire evening given that Niles was an owner."

Ruby pauses. "I didn't hear much. I never got to read the paper, so I don't know the story. What happened, if you don't mind me asking?" She says, "As for last night, I didn't see it, I just heard the gunshots. Judge Lacey was playing cards with his veteran friends over at the Morand-Seawell Office when an angry mob flowed out of the Palace Saloon and marched to the Marshall's office, demanding that some elf prisoners that Deputy Martin brought in be given to them for hanging.

The Marshall and his deputies refused and shooting started. Two of the mob were killed as was poor Mr. Hoover. Marshall Berg almost died too but your friend Nanuet saved him. The veterans then arrived and were able to persuade everybody to stand down."

"Sounds like some crazy things went down. I am glad more people weren't hurt. I haven't seen any of my friends yet, I just wanted to get clean and try to get my mind together. I'm not handling this very well. I've never been good at emotional stuff." Ruby sighs. "I am glad that Judge is ok. Sounds like what he did was very brave." And stupid, she thinks. "If that bath is ready... I need to get to the Lucky Lady." "Of course," Laurie states. Ruby takes her bath in peace.

Ruby tries her best to relax, but this time soaking away her troubles isn't working so well. After her bath she heads home, where she dresses simply in her new black dress and black lace veil covering her red hair. She ties the familiar black velvet ribbon around her neck. She avoids Jake the best she can. Ruby and Jake head over to the Lucky Lady.

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter Forty-three, “The Wake”, Sunday, May 28th, 1882, 6:30 P.M.

Kate had made her way over to Don and Sandra Wainwright and spoke quietly with both of them as well as the Barkers, then Mr. Lumley and Mr. Shaw. After a little while she sat down at the piano and played. While she obviously didn't play anything cheerful, she tired to avoid anything overly maudlin, eventually letting herself play no particular piece but making soft, soothing music.

Ruby and Jake arrive at the Lucky Lady. Ruby cuts through the crowd, heading right over to Harry and Job. She doesn't say anything at first she just hugs them both tightly and cries. Kate left the piano as the saloon got more crowded to meet the newcomers. She was talking with the Caudells when Ruby and Jake entered the saloon. "Would you excuse me, please?" she said and walked over to where Ruby had gone over to Job and Harry.

"Ruby," Kate said and hugged her friend. Ruby hugs her back and Kate can feel even though she is crying her body is tense and she is holding herself back. "Kate," Ruby says almost emotionless, "It's good to see you." "You too, honey," Kate said, knowing better than to try to draw Ruby out. Just being here was probably a big step for her friend. "We've missed you." Kate pulled out an extra handkerchief and handed it to Ruby. "Just in case you didn't have one."

"I didn't." Ruby takes the hankie and holds it tightly in her hand. "Thanks Kate. I can't say I'm glad to be back." Even though the hankie is in her hand she wipes her eyes with the back of her hand. "What happened here?" she asks softly, "Did everyone go mad?"

"That depends on your definition of madness. Just last night I was telling Niles how proud I was of him. He and a few others had put a whole page ad in Chumbley's paper as the Committee for Racial Equality. Pierre Jaquet came in a bit after ten for Chester and Mrs. Barker, saying there was trouble at the jail.

Chester and Nanuet had brought in some rustlers earlier yesterday; they happened to be elves. A mob had come from the Palace, demanding the elves be given to them to hang, right there and then. Marshall Berg refused. When Chester and Mrs. Barker went to help, Niles, Mr. Calhoun, and Mr. Cassidy went as well. Considering the ad they'd placed, they wanted to back up their words with action. Chester deputized them right then and they all went over.

I got my bag of bandages and my brother Henry and I went to the corner near the Comique. My father was with some other Army veterans, and they armed themselves to support the Marshalls. Berg gave the crowd a chance to disperse peacefully, and when they didn't the lawmen fired. They only shot to disarm but the mob shot to kill. I was too far away at that point, once the smoke got thick I couldn't see much.

I understand the man who shot Niles was killed himself. The shooting stopped once the veterans arrived to back up the law. Nanuet, Miss Florencia and I helped with treating the wounded along with Doctor Eaton and Mr. Valdez. Adair and Ike Sherman were big in that crowd, making a lot of noise. Adair and Bob Scull were both shot, which is some comfort," she finished.

"Is it really Kate?" Ruby says as she glances around the room. "I don't think there is comfort to be had. Nothing is going to bring him back." Ruby looks at Kate, "And you were all crazy enough to somehow be involved in this. I told you before I left nothing good was going to come of this election." Ruby sighs. "I am glad you are ok." Kate says, "It's only comfort that they didn't come unscathed out of what they started. I stayed far enough away to avoid being hurt, much as I itched to do something." Kate turned to Helen Barker as she and Ruby talked.

They are interrupted by Helen Barker who says that she has to leave, that she is on duty soon with Eduardo. She adds, "The other lawmen are all planning to come by this evening. Please watch what you say to Mitch, he's taking this really hard." Ruby wipes her eyes again. "Thank you for coming Helen. We all appreciate it." She pauses. "What should we not say to Marshall Berg?"

She replies, "He's blaming himself for what happened last night. It wasn't like he really had any choice. That drunkened up mob wanted to string up every elf at the jail, including Eduardo. If they'd been allowed to do that I'm sure that Cornflower Peck and your friend Nanuet would have been next for their lynching party.

But Mitch is thinking of resigning, which is not what this town needs at the moment. Things are tense enough what with Adair's gambler Nick Karp getting killed, my fault I'm afraid. We've been ordered to stay clear of the Palace tonight so as to not enflame things further. Judge Isby asked Sheriff Hunter to keep an eye on that gathering and he sent his man Tomlinson over there too." "Poor Mr. Berg. I hope he doesn't resign or things will get really messy." Ruby pauses and pulls some hair off her face. "Helen, do you know where Judge Isby is now?"

Helen says, "Probably at the Territorial Office where he stays when he is in town. I imagine that he'll be getting to bed early tonight since he holding court at 8:00 AM tomorrow morning." Kate replies, "I said everything I could think of to Mr. Berg this morning, I just hope he listened. Tomorrow morning will be difficult for him. Thank you too, Mrs. Barker. I know it was your job to be there, but I also know you wouldn't have been anywhere else."

"If you spoke with him Kate, I'm sure it did some good. You have that way about you." Ruby pauses again, in thought. "I think I'll try to visit with the Judge and see what he thinks of what happened." And get away from here... "Besides, I'm not very good at all this," she waves her arm around.

Ruby again bid Helen good bye then excuses herself. She spends some time wandering around, greeting everyone who stops by. She keeps herself together the best she can but eventually she succumbs to the sadness of the event and heads out to the porch. The sun was setting and the stars would soon be out, as they always were. She sildes back up on the railing and just tries to breathe.

After Ruby left Kate went back to moving around the room and speaking with the other mourners. She stopped by the Seawells to say hello. To Colonel Seawell she said, "Thank you for helping last night. I know you don't need any thanks but knowing people like you are willing to step up makes me feel safer. I'm afraid my father shooting early was my fault. I have seen magic used when helping Deputy Martin track down Johnny Ringo and told him about it. He saw one of the men acting like he was using magic and time seems to be important in stopping that."

Chester and Clarisse arrive at the Lucky Lady. Ruby is out on the porch. "Hey there. How was Tucson? You missed one hell of a fire in Tombstone." Ruby hops off the railing and hugs Chester tightly and overlong. Finally she says, "For a moment, we thought it was you." She continues to hug him before she pulls back and wipes her eyes. "Hello Clarisse. Thanks for coming."

Chester pats her awkwardly on her back. "It's OK. It's OK. I'm safe and sound. Niles gave as good as he got." Clarisse answers Ruby, "Good evening, Miss West. I wish it was a happier time. Mr. Hoover had been nice to me since I started singing here." "I know Clarisse." Ruby slides back on the railing. "Tuscon was ok. The fire and then this sorta ruined the trip, for me anyway. I am so glad you are ok though Chester. What would we do without you?" She gives him a weak smile.

Chester smiles warmly. "I'd say 'Get into trouble,' but we do that even with me here. I plan on sticking around for a long time." He pauses and takes a deep breath. "It's my fault Niles got killed. He volunteered to come with me to the office. I should have told them to stay behind. But I deputized them instead."

"Chester!" Ruby begins sternly, "It is ABSOLUTELY not your fault, and I wasn't even here! You didn't force Niles to come with you. And you didn't make that crazy mob want to string up Indians. Kate said he was standing up for what he believed in. I don't believe for one second that you're to blame. Clarisse, will you talk some sense into Mr. Martin please?" Ruby shakes her head at him. She replies, "Believe me, I've tried. But he takes everything so personally. Don't you dear?" "Guilty as charged. Let's go in and pay our respects." Ruby smiles at them as they walk inside the Lucky Lady. She truly was glad that Chester was ok.

Jake just wanders around the Lucky Lady, speaking with those that look like they need to talk, adding good words towards Niles Hoover whenever he can. It was easy, Jake liked Niles and respected him. Jake does not make any statements affirming that he died for a good cause, he just stays away from that topic. Jake keeps an eye on Ruby but gives her space, deciding that he cannot bear this burden for her. Finally, when Harry is between those giving condolences Jake approaches him and offers his hand. "I counted him as one of my friends. He was a good man, Promise City loses much without him."

After speaking with Chester and finding him alright, Ruby quietly leaves the somber Lucky Lady and heads to the Territorial Building. She knocks quietly but persistently on the door. "Judge?" she calls out softly. He answers the door. "Hello Ruby, what brings you here at this time of the evening?" "Well, I was just at the... the... I thought I would come and see you." She wipes her eyes. "Can I come in?"

"Certainly, certainly, do come in." She enters and he shuts the door. "How can I help you?" he asks. Ruby comes into the room. It looked so different than when she had first been summoned here. She wanders around the room, letting her fingers run across furniture. Finally she turns back to the Judge. "I don't know if you know, I was away, in Tucson, when this all happened. I mean, last night I wasn't here." She is silent.

"Things got so... out of control... and Niles..." she shakes her head and sniffles. "I mean... I'm so nervous that the situation will get worse. And I will lose someone else I love and care for. Someone I trust very much said I should trust you to fix things around here." She stops fidgeting and looks up at Isby with wide eyes. "Do you think you can?"

He replies, "I am going to do my best. I will be holding court tomorrow morning and addressing all of the issue from yesterday. And then tomorrow night I will facilitate the meeting regarding the election. Hopefully by this time tomorrow things will have stabilized." Ruby looks away and replies softly, "And if they don't?"

Isby says, "We'll have to wait and see, but relax Ruby Dear, first things first. By tomorrow the two instigators from yesterday should both be behind bars. That alone should deter others from doing the same." Ruby breathes in deeply. "Don't get me wrong, I know if anyone can deal with things you can. I'm just... upset...about Niles. And scared too. I don't like admitting that." Ruby shrugs. "Who are you going to put in jail?"

He replies, "Well, actually it is too premature to say. Marshall Berg said he will be bringing charges against the two instigators of the riot, I can only guess who they are based upon the article in the Promise City Mirror. We will have to wait until the trial to see what evidence the Marshall presents. But even if it is weak I plan to follow through with jail time for those who he names, even if my ruling is later overturned on appeal.

Ruby nods. "You are very wise. And also very brave." She glances at him with a look of admiration on her face before looking away. She slides herself back onto a table. "What do YOU think about all this voting stuff? I mean, do you think that woman and non-humans should be able to vote?"

He replies, "That is not for me to say. I am not a citizen of this town, nor should the voting be in any way biased by my own personal beliefs and opinions. I plan to see that the issues are openly discussed and that those decisions are decided fairly. What the town decides to ultimately do is up to the town. But I will say that I strongly favor the Incorporation of Promise City. It will give the local law enforcement officers more authority and the town council will be able to make laws to deal with situations unique to this town. Having telegraph lines running to here will also make my job much easier."

She says, "Oh, I know you won't be biased. I was only asking about your personal feelings on the matter. I don't care either way, I have to be honest, I hate politics. No matter how you try, things never seem to turn out fair." Isby replies, "I am not a politician, I am a Judge. I try to be fair. I was appointed by politicians but as long as I continue to live and rule based upon my own moral convictions then I do not fear any politician seeking to take the job from me. Of course, it doesn't hurt my standing that I also provide a significant amount of revenue to the Territorial coffers due to the fines associated with my rather strict rulings."

She says, "Don't take that the wrong way, I didn't mean you. No, not at all. I haven't really told many people this but my family, well, my father, is in politics. Or at least he was anyway the last I heard. I've seen some things..." Ruby slides off the table. "Thanks for seeing me Judge. I know you are busy and want to rest for tomorrow, early day and all. I do feel better having spoken with you. I only hope things don't get worse before they get better." Ruby walks closer to the Judge and a small smile comes to Ruby's face. "You are pretty strict in the courtroom. But I'm glad I got to see the other side of you."

He smiles and says, "When all this is finished I hope that you will see some other aspects of my personality as well. But not now, Mr. Hoover after all was your business partner and I wouldn't want people to accuse you of influencing my rulings. Good night Ruby."

"I wouldn't want people thinking that either. You've worked very hard for your reputation." She cocks her head and stares at him for a moment. He was just about as opposite from Jake as one could get and it made her want to giggle.

"I do need to get back. Good luck tomorrow." Ruby kisses his cheek then heads out the door. She walks slowly on her return to the Lucky Lady. She breathes in deeply before heading back in the door. She looks around for Jake and when she finally finds him she softly wraps an arm around his waist and snuggles into his shoulder.

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter Forty-four, “Monday’s Trial”, Sunday, May 28th, 1882, 7:30 P.M.

Harry said to Jake Cook, "Thanks Jake. Yes, Niles was, the best man I've ever known. He'd have given a man the shirt off his back just for asking. Half the hills around here have prospectors on them who Niles staked. I just wish he'd have lived long enough to see one of them pay off. But he wasn't even looking to make it rich, I think he just liked helping people out who needed it."

Jake nods solemnly. "Best you can do is to appreciate what you had rather than focus on what you lost. Seems to me he would have wanted it that way." Jake pats him gently on the shoulder and leaves Harry to join the others. He then heads out to the porch to wait for Ruby to return.

Inside the Lucky Lady, Town Marshall Mitchell Berg arrives at the Lucky Lady for Niles Hoover's wake. As Kate talked with the Seawells she saw Mitchell Berg come in. She asked to be excused and walked over to the door where Berg was still standing. "We're so glad you're here," Kate said quietly when she reached him and offered an arm to escort him. "I hope you found services helpful this morning."

He nods and says, "I did. This town has some good people in it." Berg spends the next half hour walking around the room and making small talk with a few folks but otherwise keeping to him.

After speaking to Ruby Chester headed up to his room. Clarisse says her condolences to Harry Rote. Chester changes into a dark suit and comes back downstairs unarmed. He gets a beer from the bar and water for Clarisse. Rejoining her, he also says his condolences to Harry. Berg enters the saloon and everyone looks his way. Chester excuses himself and makes his way through the crowd to the Marshall. "Hey Marshall. How are you feeling?"

He replies, "About as good as you can expect Chet under the circumstances. We're going to need you to testify tomorrow morning for Judge Isby. I'm bringing both Evan Adair and Will Flynn up on charges for inciting the riot and since you and I both spoke to the crowd, ordering them to disperse, I want that on record. Fisk is also brining me up on charges but I think that Isby is only allowing it so that he can then rule in our favor. We also need you to testify about the arrest of the Indians at that trial too. That's Deputy Sheriff Hunter's case, not mine, although I'll be wearing my lawyer hat for that one to help defend Nanuet's nephew." Chester replies, "I'll be there. There's no way I'm letting Adair get away with this. He'll do good to have you as his lawyer."

After Ruby returns and goes up to Jake, Berg gestures for Job Kane to join them and approaches the three and asks, "I was wondering if we could come here to do the reading of Nile's Last Will and Testament tomorrow after the funeral? Most of the folks listed in the will work here, he even updated it recently to include Thom." "Sure, Marshall." Jake has a little shiver remembering he went through the trouble of making his own will.

Kate had spoken to most of the people in the room, so made her way over to General Pleasants and the Caudells. Her own family came in a few minutes later, dressed in the most somber clothes they could find considering the loss of their trunks.

There was one person still missing that Kate found herself still searching for. She hadn't seen Conrad in the last day or so, but he must know what had happened. He had to work of course, but surely he would find a few moments to stop by? She trained her attention back to the General and said, "It seems my little town is trying to prove me a liar. I remember telling you gunfights in the street weren't a common occurrence. At the time it was the truth."

Pleasants says, "New elections aren't a common occurrence either. Look at what happened a few decades back with Kansas, this is minor by comparison. I am truly sorry for the loss of your friend, by everybody's account he was a very good man." Kate replies, "Better than I knew. He was always friendly to everyone, but I never realized how much good was in him. I would think by now I would have learned not to wait to get to know someone, there isn't time to wait."

Conrad Booth finally arrives, in the company of Pedro and Dorita. "Here are some people you should meet," Kate said. "I'll make sure to introduce you before they leave. If you'll excuse me I should go say hello." She crossed the room and kissed Dorita on the cheek. "I'm so glad to see you." She gave Pedro a rare hug and turned to Conrad saying, "It's good to see you."

Conrad smiles and says, "Sorry it took so long, they needed some convincing to come. I told them that all of Nile's friends were welcome but they were hesitant what with a racial incident having sparked the trouble to begin with." Kate states, "Of course you're welcome. Adair and his ilk can't change that not matter how hard they try." Kate was silent for a moment, uncertain what else to say. "We'll make that clear at the meeting tomorrow."

Time passes at the wake, everyone recalling their favorite stories about Niles. Ruby notices a small boy who she doesn't recognize but remembers Niles mentioning his friend and nephew were coming to visit. She leaves the safety of Jake's side and approaches the boy. "Good evening, young sir. You wouldn't happen to be Burt, would you?" The boy looks up and in a monotone says, "Yes, I came here to spend the summer with Uncle Niles."

"Well then," Ruby says and kneels in front of him, "I am very honored to meet you. My name is Ruby West," she says, extending her hand to the young boy. "Your Uncle told me all about you. He was really looking forward to spending the summer with you. Said you were going to be a big help around here." He says, "You're the singer here aren't you?" "Yes, I am the singer here. Have you heard about me too?" Ruby gives the boy a smile. He says, "Yes, Niles wrote to me." The boy then hides behind Mr. Kilgore.

Ruby is more than a bit surprised. She stands and continues to smile at the boy, "Don't be shy, I don't bite. At least not cute little boys anyway." She gives a little giggle, the first laugh of the day. She turns to George. "Niles had planned on you staying here and you are more than welcome to if you want to. Both of you. We have room and eventually we are planning in opening as a hotel. We can talk about the details later if you have questions but please feel free to stay tonight."

After her conversation is over Ruby continues to circulate. Eventually she makes her way over to Kate's family. With a weary smile on her face she pulls some hair off her face and says, "Well, Mrs. Kale, are you going to introduce me to your family?"

The wake continues until around 9:30 PM, during which time close to have the town has filed through, including all of the town's saloon owners who had been Nile's customers with the lone exception of Evan Adair. At several points during the wake speeches are made. When things are closing up and most people have left Neil Cassidy comes by. He is wearing his Deputy badge and says that he is currently on duty, but wanted Harry Rote and the others to know that he has gone ahead and already paid for everything the next day for Nile's funeral including the casket and grave marker. He says that he will see them at the funeral.

Kate spent the night talking a bit and often sitting at the piano as Job had suggested earlier. She managed to sneak a few moments alone with her brother Henry as well as with Conrad when she could let go a bit and let someone comfort her rather than the other way around.

She was tired of death and it was beginning to take its toll. Tom, Storm, Mr. Emerson, Niles, even the death of Riley, who they'd hardly known weighed on her tonight. The night finally came to an end, and even though Conrad escorted her and Ginnie home she wished she didn't have to sleep alone this particular night.

The night finally comes to a close. Ruby half heartedly helps clean up the Saloon. They thank Neil Cassidy for his generosity in paying for the funeral. Her and Jake make their way home. Ruby carelessly drops her clothes to the floor in a ball. She tiredly crawls into bed and snuggles with her pillow, too exhausted to cry anymore. She quickly falls asleep.

Ruby’s sleep is restless and finally she wakes in the middle of the night. She drags herself out of bed and wraps herself in a blanket, ending on a couch in their living room. From the couch Ruby could view the bright moon and stars in the sky as she lay with her head resting on the armrest. Tonight they didn’t comfort her though; tonight they reminded her of the unchanging facts of life. That no matter how hard she had tried to change things for herself they would, eventually, end up the same. She was sad about this fact, but also somewhat comforted, comforted that at least she knew what was coming. She drifts back off to sleep with that thought in mind.

Monday, May 29th at 7:30 A.M. Meanwhile, across town at the Arizona Territorial Building Court is about to go into session. The building is packed, with all chairs filled and much of the standing room taken up as well. At table in the front Lawyer Hamilton Fisk is seated beside Evan Adair. Adair's shoulder is bandaged and his arm is being held in a sling.

Deputy Sheriff Colin Hunter along with Deputies Barker and Martin have escorted the four Elvan prisoners to the building, the men each in shackles. Marshall Berg has escorted young Nakomo in the company of Priestess Minerva Florencia and her companion Nanuet. Deputy Marshall Neil Cassidy then arrives with a handcuffed Will Flynn in tow.

People continue to arrive at the Arizona Territorial Office Building. Newspaper editor Chumbley and his reporter Angelica Young are among the last to enter the building.

Promptly at 8:00 A.M. Kevin Tomlinson announces “All Rise for Judge Nathan Isby”. The Judge enters and takes his seat. The audience all sit. Tomlinson says, “The first case to be heard today is brought by Mr. Evan Adair. He changes Marshall Mitchell Berg and Deputy Marshall Helen Barker with the murder of his employee Mr. Nicholas Karp.”

Isby looks towards the law officers and says, “How do you plead?” Attorney Elihu Upton stands and steps forward. He states, “On behalf of my clients Mr. Berg and Mrs. Barker I am ordered to plead not guilty.” Isby begins the trial

Attorney Hamilton Fisk stands and outlines the events of the previous evening, emphasizing how while Berg had instructed the crowd to disperse on the count of ten the law officers fired into the crowd sooner than that, thus not allowing the crowd the promised time to back down and therefore making an unprovoked attack that left Mr. Karp dead.

Attorney Upton states that based upon his consultations with his clients the death of Mr. Karp was not intentional but occurred in the course of the law officers attempting to restore order. He then presents as evidence six written depositions of witnesses who attest to the fact that the crowd had been given four different warnings to disperse and states that the crowd failing to do so left the law officers no other choice. He points to two depositions that mention the mob also wanting to do harm to Deputy Marshall Rodriguez. Finally, he states that Marshall Berg had previously instructed all of his deputies to shot to wound and not kill.

Attorney Fisk reminds the court of Helen Barker’s prowess with a gun and states that if it had been her intent to wound then Karp would not be dead. Attorney Upton counters by stating that Deputy Barker was clearly trying to wound, as her first three shots had disarmed three men. He states that “At that point people were moving, the law officers were moving to avoid being hit and Mr. Karp had been wounded by her previous shot so would have been moving himself. The area was also filled with gunpowder smoke. All of those factors could have influenced the shot, causing it to strike him at a point other than what she intended.” Many side conversations begin in the audience.

Judge Isby slams his gavel down and orders silence while he reads aloud to the court each of the six written depositions. They are from Al Brower, Roger Fly, John Hagen, Kay Kaufman, Dick Lockmyer and Henry Weller. After reading them he asks if either Attorney have objections to raise. Fisk disputes some minor details and some of the adjectives used in the descriptions but upon further questioning by Isby agrees that they are for the most part accurate.

Isby states, “Then I feel that I have heard enough and am prepared to rule. Law is an important thing. A Town, a Territory or a Country cannot be ruled without laws. It is the charge of the Officers of the Law to enforce that law. Vigilante justice, based upon mob rule, stands in direct opposition to the tenants of law.

I find that Marshall Berg was fully within his rights to do whatever was necessary to uphold the law and did so in this instance. I find both him and Deputy Barker innocent of these charges. And I would sincerely hope that the citizens of this town decide to heed the commands of the law officers if such an event should ever occur again.” The Judge then calls for a ten minute recess. Chester exhales from his place guarding the prisoners. The relief is plain on his face as the verdict is read. He adjusts his tie and badge nervously as he waits to give his testimony.

Tomlinson calls the next case to order “Town Marshall Mitchell Berg charges Mr. Will Flynn with Inciting a Riot.” Judge Isby asks Mr. Flynn if he has representation. Flynn looks to Fisk. Evan Adair and Hamilton Fisk briefly whisper to one another after which Fisk remains seated and silent. Isby says, “Very well then, Marshall Berg, you may begin.”

Berg calls Flynn to the stand and has him testify as to the events of the previous day, beginning with the arrest of the Indians. Flynn recounts the arrests made with Deputy Martin and of him getting shot. Berg asks, “And how did you spend the remainder of the afternoon and evening?” Flynn recounts coming to town and Doctor Eaton removing the bullet.

He stayed in town to recover, spending part of the day at Drover’s Hotel and then heading over to the Palace to watch the fights. He says that several people asked about his injury and he told them of the Indian shooting him. He says that the crowd then decided to go hang the Indians. Berg asks if that was Flynn’s idea. The ranch hand states that it was not. Berg then asks “But you thought it was a good idea?” Flynn says, “Yes.”

Berg then calls Evan Adair to the stand. Adair does so, apparently having no qualms to letting the rancher take all of the blame for what happened. His memory differs from Flynn, with him stating that “It was Flynn who riled up the crowd and decided to lead them there.” Berg then brings forward written depositions taken from patrons of the Palace Saloon, Jervis Clifton, Matt Coogan and Cully Flick which cite that it was gambler Nicholas Karp who suggested the idea. Adair says that he does not recall Nick doing so, but that Karp was indeed an enthusiastic supporter of the lynching.

Berg then says, “Mr. Adair, is an employer not responsible for the actions of his employees?” Hamilton Fisk stands and objects, citing that Mr. Adair is not on trial. Marshall Berg turns to the judge and states, “At this time I would also like to extend the charges of Inciting a Riot to Mr. Adair as well.” Fisk again objects, stating that he has not had time to prepare his client for such a trial.

Isby says, “Agreed. This specific hearing will be adjourned until tomorrow morning at 9:00 A.M. to allow Mr. Fisk the time necessary. Flynn and Adair are both to be held in custody in the town jail until that time.” Fisk objects to that as well but is overruled. Fisk then raises another objection, this time citing the Merchant’s Association Meeting that evening that Adair is a member of. Isby says, “Marshall Berg will be at the meeting, he can bring the prisoner with him.” A ten minute recess is called before the next trial. Deputies Cassidy and Barker are ordered by go bring both men to jail. The deputies depart with their prisoners, with Fisk accompanying Adair.

During the break, Chester says to Eduardo, "Things are going OK so far. I'm real disappointed in Flynn. Nanuet fixed him up and this is what happens." Eduardo says, "Happens all the time. Father Valdez is twice the healer of Doc Eaton, but last night most of those idiots waited hours for the Doc to see them instead of asking the half-elf to help them. Heck, Flynn wasn't happy with what Nanuet did for him, had the Doctor cut him open unnecessarily and now credits Eaton with his recovery. Racist idiots I tell you."

Pakesso smirks. "I told you so. You white men are fools." Chester barks, "Quiet, prisoner. We'll have no more of that today." Pakesso says nothing in return, but keeps a smug look on his face. Chester says to Eduardo, "If Flynn wants to risk gangrene because he doesn't trust Nanuet, that's his problem. But stirring up the folks at the Palace got people killed."

Cassidy soon returns. Court resumes and Tomlinson announces “Deputy Sheriff Colin Hunter charges the following men with the theft of livestock: Kokokehas, Nakomo, Naumkeag, Nesenkeag, and Pakesso.” Judge Isby asks, “Do any of these men have representation.” Marshall Berg stands and says, “Yes sir, as these crimes occurred outside of the boundaries my jurisdiction as Marshall and therefore do not present a conflict of interest I request the court’s permission to serve as an Attorney in this matter.”

This creates a stir in the crowd, with several comments being made about Berg being an “Injun-lover”. Judge Isby pounds the gavel to restore order again. He then says, “Granted. Will you be representing all five of these men?” Attorney Berg says, “No sir, only the young man named Nakomo. He will be testifying against the other four.” This also creates a stir and the Judge pounds the gavel again.

The trial begins with Deputy Sheriff Colin Hunter calling Calvin Oldfield to the stand. The rancher tells of the recent thefts from his ranch and also those from the Green Valley Farm. Hunter next calls Deputy Marshall Chester Martin to the stand to testify about his involvement and what transpired.
Chester takes the stand. Tomlinson swears him in. "Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help you Zeus?" Chester replies, "I do." He sits down.

"A couple days ago I was drinking with some ranchers at the Lucky Lady. They were complaining about some recent thefts of chickens and a hog. They asked me if I'd look into it and I agreed. They also asked Nanuet, an Indian priest who lives in town, if he'd help out since the ranchers thought it was the Apaches. You see, Nanuet brokered a treaty between the Apaches and the white folk a few months ago. So he was a natural choice.

"So me and Nanuet went out to the ranches. I talked to Will Flynn and Amer Renner about what they saw. They said they saw some Indians dragging away the animals. The four of us found the trail and tracked the thieves to a cave in the Dos Cabezos Mountains. Turns out that they're not Apaches, but Yavapai, one of the other tribes. I called out for them to give up, but they shot at us instead. Nanuet said the same thing in their own language, so it's not like they didn't understand us. A gunfight breaks out. Flynn and a couple of the Indians are wounded. They surrender and Nanuet heals them. Since I'm a town Marshall, I don't have the authority to arrest them so I ride back to town and ask Deputy Sheriff Hunter to do the honors."

Following Chester’s testimony the Judge asks the accused if any of them wish to speak. Pakesso takes the stand. He eloquently apologizes for the actions of his men and states that they were merely seeking provisions to sustain them on a long trip across the desert. He offers that his horse and gun can be sold to make restitution to the ranch and farm and sincerely regrets his group’s actions. He begs the forgiveness of the court.

Berg says that Nakomo wishes to testify in his own defense but that he would first like to call another witness. Tombstone’s Deputy Marshall John Clum is called to the stand. Clum takes a seat. Berg asks him why he is in Promise City. Clum explains that he was delivering the town’s fire wagon, which Tombstone had borrowed the previous week.

Berg then asks Clum to describe his history with the Apache and the events of the meeting in Prescott earlier that month. Clum does so, talking of his previous job as Indian Agent and the planned meeting with the tribal elders of the San Carlos Reservation. He describes how the four older accused and two of their friends came instead of the elders and were turned away.

Berg has Nakomo take the stand. Under questioning the boy describes his relationship with others, how the tribal elders made them his guardians following his mother’s death. Berg then asks the boy to tell what he knows of the Prescott meeting with the Territorial Governor and the official from the Federal Office of Indian Affairs.

Pakesso stands and yells at the boy in the native language to be quiet. Isby orders a five minute recess during which Pakesso is to be removed from the courtroom. Tomlinson helps Deputy Cassidy take the elf out in shackles and chains. A now frightened Nakomo rushes over towards Nanuet and Minerva.

Court resumes and Nakomo recounts in detail Pakesso having the weapons smuggled in within the basket of presents and calling for them. Berg asks, “And what was the plan for these weapons? Did he wish to threaten the officials.” Nakomo says, “No, the plan was for him and the others to kill all of the humans present at the meeting.” The courtroom erupts in chaos at the airing of that revelation. Several comments along the lines of “We should have hung them” are stated. It takes several minutes for order to be restored during which time Isby allows Nakomo to leave the stand.

When court resumes Marshall Berg outlines how Nakomo had intentionally hidden to keep the weapons from the others. He has Clum return to the stand. Clum testifies how Pakesso became visibly angry at the ‘presents’ not being available and wanted to know where Nakomo had gone to.

Berg calls Nakomo back to the stand and the boy testifies how following Prescott the others beat him. He says that he was afraid to stand up to them again. Berg concludes by stating that Nakomo should be regarded as a hero, who prevented the brutal murder of the Governor and other officials, and requests the leniency of the court in regards to charges of boy’s complicity with the theft of the livestock thefts.

Judge Isby turns to the elves and asks if they have anything to say in their own defense. Kokokehas does not deny anything that has been said but instead states the superiority of the elvan race, that they are the true owners of the land and that the humans will one day be driven from it.

Hearing nothing further the Judge calls the trial closed. He then makes his ruling. Regarding the thefts, the physical possessions save for the clothing on their backs of all five Indians are to be sold to make restitution to the farm and ranch. For their participation in the plot to murder a high ranking Federal Official Kokokehas, Naumkeag, Nesenkeag, and Pakesso are to be immediately turned over to the military commander of Fort Huachuca to be executed.

He the declares that Nakomo is indeed a hero, that it took heroic effort for one so young to be willing to stand up for what is right, both at Prescott and again today. He adds, “But I cannot overlook the boy’s involvement in those thefts. Attorney Berg, I order him to remain within the town until he has completed a total of sixty hours of community service under your supervision. I believe that the Town Hall could use interior painting and that the County Claims Office could use some roof repairs.” Berg states, “Yes sir. Thank you sir.” Isby orders the court adjourned.

Chester and Eduardo take the struggling prisoners back to the jail. Chester says, "Come on, back to the hoosegow. You have a date with the hangman. Thanks to that brave boy, you weren't able to complete the job." Adair and Flynn both object when they see the prisoners brought in, not wanting to share the cell with Indians who they tried to kill the night before. Berg shoves all four Indians into the other cell and keeps the shackles on their hands and feet says, "We should be rid of them soon."

They do not have long to wait as the Wells Fargo Stage comes right up to the door. For this run Kris Wagner has assigned both of his riflemen, Newton Gilly and Billy Glass. Deputy Sheriff Colin Hunter is accompanied by Tombstone Deputy Marshall John Clum to escort the prisoners to Tombstone, where a group of soldiers are currently stationed to take charge of them. Clum mentions that Lieutenant Gamble is in charge of those that group. The Indians are piled onto the Stagecoach, which then departs.

Chester says to Berg, "I don't envy Gamble. He better put the fort on alert for a few days. No telling if they'll get attacked for this. By the way, congratulations on getting the charges dropped against you and Helen. If they'd succeeded in getting you, then I would have turned in my badge." Berg gestures to the cell with Adair and Flynn and says, "Yes, it seems to me that the right ones are behind bars." Adair exclaims, "Only until tomorrow. You have a weak case Berg, Fisk will get me off." Berg replies, "You may be right, but until then get comfortable in that cell."

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter Forty-five, “The Missing Students”, Monday, May 29th, 1882, 7:30 P.M.

Kate had awakened early to get herself a good breakfast before the first day of school is to start. She is inside the school greeting the arrival of the first six pupils, namely six of the seven youngest of the O'Hara children and their mother Meagan. Meagan says, "You've done a wonderful job with this Katherine, you should be proud."

As time goes on some of the other students begin to arrive. First are the Tolucca children, Roberto, Consuelo, Manuel and Jose. Next is Ricardo Huesca. Last to arrive is Rocky, the half-ogre son of a new miner at the Happy Strike Mine. It is almost the 8:00 A.M. start time none of the other human children from the town have arrived.

Kate talked pleasantly with her students, waiting for any actual school talk until 8:00. Instead she asked them about what they liked to do, how they helped their parents and what things they would like to try someday. Her eyes kept flickering to the clock sitting on her desk. She finally excused herself to go look out the door hoping to see some of the town's human children.

Surely they couldn't all have been scared away or fooled by talk from the Vigilance Committee. Perhaps she would have to send Ginnie around to find out what was going on. So many of the families had been excited to have a school and she hadn't hidden her intentions from them.

At around a quarter after 8:00 Mollie Caudell arrives at the schoolhouse door. She gestures for Kate to come see her. Kate excused herself to the children, when she was at that time seating and working on dividing into classes and followed Mollie out. "What is it, Mrs. Caudell?" she asked anxiously.

She says, "We were on our way here with Melvin and were intercepted, ushered over into the Town Hall. Other families with kids are also there. A Mr. Shackelton then announced that the school would be meeting there instead, and that it would be free to the parents.

A Mrs. King and a Doctor Eaton then called aside Nate and are talking to him about teaching at it. He asked about your school and they told him that their school would be for proper human families, that if you wanted to teach the lesser races and poor Irish urchins that you could. I guess they assume that since Nate's a Southerner he's also racist. Shows how little they know about the man. Anyway, he whispered for me to come here to tell you so I slipped out."

Kate shook her head. "You know, I'm actually a little relieved. They didn't convince anyone not to come, and they waited until the last minute and ambushed the human families. It doesn't speak of their confidence in convincing people without the word free dangling over them. I can't leave the children here, but I should at least have a say. And all the best arguments make me look as petty as them. Did it seem they could convince the families? Did they make it seem like they didn't have a choice?"

Mollie replies, "I'm sure that Mrs. O'Hara and I can manage until you get back. Nate's just stalling them, this is where we will want Melvin to be. As to convincing the others, the deciding factor will be affordability. Them offering to give free schooling tips it in their favor. Hmmm, I was talking to Mr. Davis last night about the new group that he helped found, this Committee for Racial Equality. Do you think they might be willing to finance your school?"

Kate sighed. "Perhaps. I'll tell you the truth, it was going to take a long time for me to recoup the money I spent getting set up. If I get them to back me, perhaps after the incorporation I can apply to have the school become the towns public school and lift the burden from them. Some of those men will be at the trial right now, so I'd better go interrupt this meeting first. Perhaps I'll offer the first week free of charge while I try to make the arrangements. If you'll go get Mrs. O'Hara, I'll try to keep the Vigilance Committee from getting their claws in these children."

"Isn't he on that Committee?" Mollie asks, pointing to neighbor Roger Fly who is walking from his Boarding House over to his Photo Studio behind it. Kate turned her head and looked. "Mr. Fly!" Kate called and waved to him. "Could we speak to you for a moment?" Roger Fly walks over to the entrance of the school. "Hello Mrs. Kale, Mrs. Caudell, how is the first day of school going?"

"With a bit of a snag I'm afraid. Mrs. Caudell has a bit of disturbing news. Apparently Mrs. King, Doc Eaton and Mr. Shackelton intercepted the human families on the way here this morning. They told them school will be meeting in the town hall and they're trying to get Mr. Caudell to teach for them. I could probably convince the families to come here instead, but they're offering the schooling for free, something I really can't do. We thought..." Kate turned bright red but pushed on. "We thought if the Committee from Racial Equality might support the school, I could offer to teach for free. I'm sorry, I hate to ask, but I don't know how else I can compete and I hate to think of what they'll put in those children's minds."

Fly says, "I don't care for some of Shackelton's ideas. King and Eaton aren't so bad once you get to know them, they at least mean well. But the school has to be for ALL children. Why don't they understand that?" He pauses for a minute and says, "So you want us to sponsor your school? That could get expensive, although I know Neil could probably afford to pay most of it. You know, Neil feels terribly about what happened to Niles, we all do actually. Would you perhaps consider maybe naming your school after him?"

Kate says, "I would absolutely consider it. The good news is that I've already paid to get everything set up. The building is here, the books and supplies are all here, its just.... All the time I spend here I'm not spending working on my ranch. The upkeep really shouldn't be all that much. And I thought once the town is incorporated we could apply to become the public school."

Kate peeked back inside to make sure the children were still where they belonged, then said. "It looks like I'm not going to get back in there right away. Mrs. Caudell, would you? I'll send Mrs. O'Hara in a minute as well." Mollie says, "Relax, Meghan and I can handle a room full of kids, especially since most of them are hers."

Roger Fly tells Kate, "Let's go see if we can find Neil and see if he agrees. I know for a fact that Rufus Davis will agree, his elvan girlfriend Anita Ramirez is pregnant and they'll need a place to school their child. So with me that'll make a majority. Yes, I know, the idea an unwed mother is shocking, my wife Janet is appalled, but that's all part of life." "I don't find it so terribly shocking," Kate said with a smile that went a bit beyond just amusement. "Marriage isn't right for everyone. Lead on sir, lets pull out a spoke in Mr. Shackelton's wheel."

Instead of heading towards either Cassidy's lumberyard or home Fly leads her up East Street to the Morand Cartage Company Complex. Neil Cassidy is there, signing paperwork for the caravan of wagons about to depart to bring his remaining in-stock lumber to Tombstone.

They are just wrapping up when Roger and Kate arrive. Neil looks up, still wearing a glum face and says, "Glad that's over with, I want to get a bath and shave before the funeral. Did you want something Roger?" Fly says, "Yes, I'm afraid that our Committee is needed yet again. I'll let Mrs. Kale explain."

Kate quickly repeated what Mollie Caudell had told her about the Vigilance Committee's hijaking of her students and the difficulty of competing with education offered free. "I know it's an enormous favor to ask, but as I told Mr. Fly all the start-up costs have been paid. And hopefully after the incorporation we can get the town to support it as the public school."

Roger says, "We were thinking of calling it The Niles Hoover Memorial School." Cassidy's eyes light up at that and he says, "Absolutely, it would be a fitting tribute to him. Count me in." Roger tells Kate "And Davis is a given, so that makes a majority. Not that I think Cole Rixton or Travis Calhoun will object. So consider it done."

"Thank you Mr. Cassidy," Kate said with a sigh of relief. She turned to Mr. Fly and said, "Would you care to come with me while I give the good news to Mrs. King, the good doctor and Mr. Shackelton? I'm certain they'll be tickled to hear all these deserving children will be educated at no cost to their parents. And I'm truly certain the parents will be very grateful to all of you."

Fly says "Oh no, my wife Janet is close friends with both Mrs. King and Beth Eaton. Please don't make my life any more complicated than it already is." Cassidy on the other hand interjects, "I'll go with you! This ought to be good." Kate smiled at Fly and said, "I understand. I'm fond of your wife as well, she's been very kind to me. Mr. Cassidy?" she finished, offering her arm. On they way, they made a quick stop to confirm that Meaghan O'Hara is able to give Mrs. Caudell a hand along with a quick explanation of what was going on.

A few minutes later they arrived at the Town Hall and stepped inside. Nate Caudell is still standing in the back of the room negotiating with Mrs. King and Doctor Eaton when they stop to see the arrival of Kate and Neil. At the front of the room Mr. Icabod Shackelton has a globe out and is giving what is a clearly human-centric Geographic lesson to the group of around fifteen children, with eight of their parents also in attendance.

Kate detached herself from Mr.Cassidy's arm and approached the globe. When Mr. Shackelton paused to take breath she jumped in, placed her finger just under his and said, "Just south of where Mr. Shackelton is pointing is Mexico, home to wood elves and some humans. Being so close together the Arizona Territory is often affected by what happens on our neighbor's lands."

She straightened up. "I'm so sorry to interrupt your excellent lesson, sir, but I have some news." She turned to the others in the room. "Again, I apologize for the intrusion. I only wish to inform everyone that the Niles Hoover Memorial School will be offering education to any child free of charge, thanks to the support of the Committee for Racial Equality which he helped found. I have always been troubled by the need to charge tuition, but with the help of Mr. Cassidy and his excellent friends that is no longer necessary. We will also provide all books and supplies, all of which are laid in and ready in the schoolhouse."

Shackelton exclaims "You vile woman. How dare you interrupt my lesson with your misguided opinions." Nate Caudell walks down to the front and says in his North Carolina accent, "Excuse me Sir, but that is no way to address a lady." Once he has gotten the attention of the room her continues, "Hello, I am Nathan Caudell and I have been a schoolteacher for the last two decades. I have just been offered a position at this institution. Regretably, I must decline. This school and the Hoover School have two different philosophies about the role of humans and Mrs. Kale's school is more in line with my own.

You see, I did not always think this way, my outlook changed during the War, where I proudly served in the North Carolina 47th Infantry. Going up against Union regiments made up of former slaves I learned the hard way that an Ogre's blood and a human's blood look the same. I saw many a brave and intelligent Ogre in my own company mistreated by simple cowardly men who happened to be human. And furthermore, at the end of the war the Constitution of the United States was amended to ensure equality of the races. It is that Constitution which I believe in and that I have absolutely no doubt will be taught at the Hoover School, which is where I want my son Melvin to be.

The decision of which school to attend is not for either myself or for Mr. Shackelton to decide. It is a parent's decision. I would suggest that you parents spend today at this school with your children listening intently to these lessons. Then spend tomorrow at the Hoover School. And continue to visit both until you feel that you can make an informed decision as to who you wish to have educating your children. That is all that I have to say, come along Melvin. You may now resume your lesson Mr. Shackelton."

"Thank you Mr. Caudell, I couldn't offer better advice. Again, my apologies for the intrusion," Kate said politely. She turned back to Mr. Cassidy and took his arm again, preceding Mr. Caudell and his son out the door. After they had gotten a bit away from the building she said, "I owe you some thanks, Mr. Caudell. I wouldn't have known what was going on until after the day was over if Mrs. Caudell hadn't told me. There is so much more I'd like to say, but I won't stoop to it."

He smiles and says, "One thing that Mollie and I have learned over the years is when to stand up for what you think is right. It's a good lesson for Melvin to learn at this age and what better way than through the example of his parents and teachers." He accompanies them back to the schoolhouse. When they arrive they see that Mrs. O'Hara and Mrs. Caudell have divided up the class into two group, with Mollie teaching the younger ones and Meagan the older.

Neil Cassidy looks around the school room building and smiles. He keeps his voice low so as to not interrupt and says "Excellent Mrs. Kale, we will definitely support this. Please let us know what you will need for a weekly stipend to cover materials and the cost of you and your two other teachers" as he gestures to other two women. Before Kate can say something Nate interjects, "She will sir. Would you take a walk with me, I have a few questions to ask you about this Committee." The men walk away together.

Kate stood stunned for a moment after the men left. She shook her head back into the present and listened to the other women giving lessons. Instead of interrupting anything she went to the desk and got the books sorted or the next subject and reworked some of her plans to include two other teachers. When the time came for morning recess Kate spoke to them both about taking full or part time positions as teachers, and also asked if they would mind overseeing lunch so she could attend Niles Hoover's funeral.

They are both delighted with the idea of working at the school. Mollie comments "It's funny to think that I could be a teacher. I couldn't even read myself until I was twenty when Nate taught me." Meghan assures Kate that her place is at the funeral, that since the school today has half the number of students than were originally expected they should have no difficulty.

"Thank you, ladies. The days will be much more pleasant with the two of you here, and give me a chance to learn how to be a teacher," she said lightly. After recess they split the classes further and Kate took her own group. Shortly before lunch classes merged and Kate went upstairs, dressed herself in a black gown and headed for the funeral parlor.

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter Forty-six, “Nile’s Funeral and Will”, Monday, May 29th, 1882, 8:45 A.M.

Nanuet listens to the trial and the fate of his former fellow tribe members. Although his head tells him that they have to be dealt with it pains his heart to hear that they will be put to death. He walks, his head down and shoulders slumped back to the Lucky Lady to see if there is work for him to do. Work that would keep his mind busy.

Minerva watches Nanuet leaves. Knowing that he must be having mixed emotions about what has transpired she lets him go allowing him the time he needs to work through his feelings. She motions for Nakomo to wait for her and walks over to the Judge.” If it would please the court, Your Honor, I am willing to take responsibility for Nakomo while he carries out his community service. "I shall return home now to thank the goddess for your wisdom in this matter."

She turns to Nakomo. "Come with me. I do not think that it is safe for you to walk alone yet." Nakomo follows the Priestess back to her house. He says, "Where will I live? The Marshall had asked you to watch me until the trial, but I should no be intruding any longer in your home."

Nonsense, Nakomo. You are not an intrusion, you are a gift from the gods, and if they have chosen to set us upon the same path that we may traverse it together for a while, than I am quite content to enjoy your company while we do so." She smiles and places her arm through his. "Come now, let us go home and get a bite to eat before the funeral. I fine man has entered the house of Olympus today. We must bury his remains with honor.

And this evening we shall celebrate your homecoming and introduce you to our friends. Would you like that? There is a little girl by the name of Ginny who I think will be quite fascinated by you. She is a bit younger than you but she has lived a rather unusual life also and, like you are wise beyond her years. I think you will find much comfort and camaraderie in one another’s company." The two enter the house and have a quick snack, before Minerva dresses in her Priestly robes and meets Nanuet at the saloon.

A few blocks east Ruby wakes and stretches, rubbing her now sore neck. The puppies were curled up, Lucky squeezed next to her legs on the couch and Mischief on the floor. They both had grown much since Ruby had found them starved on the back steps of the Lucky Lady. They both had grown strong, they had beautiful shiny coats and were good natured dogs, no doubt in part from Nanuet’s training. Ruby pets both of them for a while before getting off the couch and going back upstairs.

She dresses slowly, almost as if she is stalling. When it looks like Jake is ready to go she turns to face him, leaning herself up against the dresser. Her eyes red and puffy from crying she says, “Jake, I don’t think I can do this anymore.” He replies, "This? What do you mean?"

She states, "I just mean this," she waves her arm around. Finally she adds flatly, "I mean the funeral. You should go without me." Jake just stares at her for a minute. Finally he says, "Alright, if that is your wish. I will see you when it is finished." With that Jake heads out.

"Wait!" Ruby hurries over to him. "Just wait a moment." Ruby looks at him pleadingly. "Tell me you love me and kiss me before you leave. Please Jake." "What is eating you woman? Of course I love you." He kisses her. "Everything is going to work out. You will see."

Ruby's eyes well up with tears but she smiles heartedly anyway. "I love you too Jake, I really do. I hope everything works out the way it should." She puts her hands on his face and kisses him again, long and soft. Confused, Jake assures her again that they will make it all work out before going out.

Ruby stands, like a statue except for the tears, in the spot Jake left her for many moments. Finally she returns upstairs. She sits at the desk, trying to write through her tears, going through page after page of paper. When she is done she seals the envelope and leaves it on Jake's pillow.

Working quickly but numbly she takes her still unpacked bag from the Tucson trip and places it on the bed. She takes out her green dress, leaving it spread on the bed. She puts in some clean clothes and various other small items before closing up the bag. She doesn't let herself look at their home, their belongings, even the puppies only get a brief glance before she takes the bag and hurries to the stage coach office.

Wells Fargo manager Kris Wagner explains to Ruby that the stagecoach to Tombstone has already left, that Judge Isby needed it to be sent on a special run. He says that they won't have another one until Tuesday, but that he believes the Morand Cartage stagecoach to Willcox will be leaving in about an hour if she wants to take that one out, that a train runs between Willcox and Tucson, and she could then catch another train from Tucson to Tombstone if that is her final destination.

Ruby wipes her eyes and nods, thanking Mr. Wagner. She heads over to the Morand Cartage office and inquires about a ticket to Wilcox. Zack Morand greets her and says, "It will be leaving in around an hour. It's a relatively short ride to Willcox, around two-and-a-quarter hours with a stop along the way in Dos Cabezas. The fare is $ 2.00 one-way or $ 3.00 for a round trip ticket." Ruby hands him $2.00. "Is there somewhere to wait?" she sniffles.

He brings her into his office. It has a desk and a couple of chairs. He asks, "Would you like something to eat while you wait? I could head across the street to the Double Eagle and get you something." Ruby shakes her head no as she sits on the edge of a chair. Even though she hadn't eaten in a whole day her stomach felt ill. "No thank you Mr. Morand. I'm just going to wait here. I won't be much trouble."

It is a little after 10:00 A.M. when the carriage arrives. It is the same one that Ruby has ridden on twice before including the one time that it was a runaway coach barreling down a mountain without any horses pulling it. On that occasion Ruby and Ruby alone saved the lives of herself, Jake and a dwarven miner named Torvald MacNaulty.

She boards the stage, seeing that it has been refurbished since she was last on it. Also boarding with her are two male wood elves who are the human equivalent of around twenty and an older human woman with gray hear who is wearing a calico dress.

Ruby sighs as she takes a seat near the window. Her eyes are drawn to the floor and the panel the dwarf had ripped off so she could climb through and hang underneath an out of control stage. She actually smiles as she recalls the memory. For a moment the thought crosses her mind 'I should have died that day'. As she sits and waits for the stage to leave she ponders why she didn't die that day.

The old Ruby would have never been having these kinds of thoughts and emotions and the truth was, she just had no way to handle them, no where to put them or work through them. She was like a little lost child, unable to even accept nonetheless handle the realities of being lost. Even though Jake tried to help, she felt like a burden to him, always having to console her, help her work through her deficiencies, and chase after her. And she had promised him she would never leave and here she was sitting on the coach trying not to look back. She couldn't keep doing this to herself and to him. It was unfair to both of them.

She loses track of time as she stares off at the floor, lost in her thoughts. She is jolted into awareness as the horses are being hitched to the stage. She takes a final glance out the window, at Promise City, Arizona. It felt like a part of her would always remain no matter where she went.

The dirt kicked up as the coach rode off. Ruby stood in the street, coughing and waving her hand in front of her face, trying to clear the cloud of dust so she could breathe. She watched the coach leave and her chance at escaping was gone. Instead she didn't really see it as her chance at escape, but the decision she would have regretted the rest of her life. She hurries home and throws her bag in the closet. She tears up the note on Jake's pillow.

At a quarter until noon she dresses in her lavender evening gown, Niles favorite, and finds her way to the funeral. By the time she arrives the ceremony is almost over. She finds Jake and squeezes her way next to him, wraps her arms around him and buries her face in his shoulder as she cries, although not for the reason he thinks.

At noon the mourners all gather at Lester's Funeral Parlor. It appears that nearly one-hundred people have turned out to pay their final respects for Niles Hoover. The casket is closed and the same photograph that had been displayed at the wake is atop it. Harry Rote delivers the eulogy, talking about his long friendship with Niles and of all the bad investments they made over the years. He says that despite their poor judgment in financial matters that Niles had an uncanny knack for making friends and acquaintances. He says that "All of our lives will be richer for having known you."

A few other people get up to speak. George Kilgore says, "Most of you don't know me, but I have been a family friend of the Hoover family for over ten years now. I originally met them through Niles' brother Jesse, who past on two years ago. They were a good family, traditional Iowa farmers whose lives centered on bringing in the next crop of corn and beans. Niles wanted to do more than that, and he did. He was a good man and I will miss him."

The pallbearers consist of Harry Rote, Marshall Berg, Neil Cassidy, Chester Martin, Travis Calhoun, and George Kilgore. They carry him to the hearse wagon which then brings the casket the two blocks to the cemetery. The pallbearers carry the casket up and lay it onto the ropes which lower it to the ground.

Priestess Minerva Florencia is then asked to come forward to say the final words. When Minerva begins to speak, Chester removes his hat and lowers his head. A large crowd has gathered at the cemetery. It would seem that the whole town, minus those who are the cause of Sr. Hoover's death have turned out. Minerva looks about and notices Jake standing with Chester. Ruby is conspicuously absent and although she is concerned, it does not surprise her that Ruby would avoid such a sad event.

When all is in readiness, Minerva steps forward and sprinkles oil upon the lid and recites: "We are gathered here on this solemn day to celebrate the life of Niall Hoover. He was a brave man and righteous man, who did not fear to stand against evil. He was a true friend to those who where blessed to know him, We are here, not only to lay his body to rest, not only to celebrate the life that he shared with us when he walked upon this earth, but also his new life.

It is a sad time for us, there is no denying it. The gods gain is our loss and Niall Hoover will be sorely missed. But let us take comfort in the knowledge that at the moment of death, Niall Hoover obtained a higher level of consciousness. He has met Charon, crossed the lake and passed through the underworld to reside in Elysium, the wondrous realm located at the western end of the earth, which is inhabited by those who have lived an exemplary life in the favor of Zeus. Those who reach this heaven are shown sample lives and returned to the earth… born to a new life of their choosing.

Minerva holds up her arms to the heavens and says in a clear voice. " I say to you, do not mourn! For although we do not recognize him, Niall Hoover is alive and well, for he was a good man." The priestess places a crown of celery on the head of the casket and snipping off a lock of her own hair places it on the casket alongside the crown. Once the ceremony is complete the entire group begins to sing and move around the casket in a pattern resembling a dance.

The funeral ends. Several people thank the Priestess for her words. Minerva and Nanuet walk back home. "I have told the Judge that I would like Nakomo to live with me at least until he has finished his community service. I considered telling him that you would also be his guardian, but given the current political climate I thought it unwise to mention that we are living as one, since we are not married in the eyes of the law. I am not ashamed but I did not want to put the boy in harms way. I hope I have not offended you, mi Amore. You know how I feel about you and that it does not matter to me what others think."

She says, "I told Nakomo that we would take him on the town tonight and introduce him to our friends. The more people he has looking out for him the safer he will be." "No Minerva, I am not angry. I know what we share and that is all I need. I don't understand the ways of politics and civilization and I trust you have our best interests in mind. I am pleased that you are willing to take Nakomo into our care. I hope that he agrees to stay with us, it will be nice to have the young elf around. I agree that Nakomo could do with a few more allies, so your idea has merit, let's introduce him to everyone tonight." Nanuet stops Minerva in mid-stride and explains that he is needed at the Lucky Lady for the reading of the will.

Minerva heads home after Nanuet leaves for the reading of the will. "Buenas Dias" Nakomo. I am going to change out of these robes and then we will see about getting you a bath and some clean clothes, and while we are out perhaps we can find a way to decorate your room more to your liking. I know that it is a bit frilly and since it is to be your room you it should reflect who you are. Did you have any belongings with you?"

He replies, "I had a few things in a bag but I gave them all to the Marshall. The Judge's ruling were that the possessions of all five Indians were to be sold for restitution, which included me. That's okay, it wasn't anything special." "Possessions can be replaced. Let us go and see what can be done."
She takes him to Judge Lacey's store to see about new clothing.

The mourners that work at the Lucky Lady return to there along with Mr. Kilgore, young Bert and a few close friends. They are soon joined by Attorney Mitchell Berg who is accompanied by Clay and Hannah Milford of the Double Eagle Boarding House. Nanuet heads back there and sits quietly in the back not understanding what exactly going on.

The doors are then locked so that they will not be interrupted for the reading of Niles Hoover's will. Jake settles in quietly and waits for Berg to begin. Ruby gets them each a big glass of bourbon and sits quietly next to Jake, sipping and waiting. Kate hadn't been aware there was to be a reading of the will, so she followed the others to the Lucky Lady, surprised that her presence would even be required. She sat down between Chester and Job Kane and waited.

Berg has with him a leather satchel from which he removes a paper. He begins reading “Last Will and Testament of Niles Hoover. Being of sound mind and body I wish to bequeath to my loved ones and associates my worldly possessions to be distributed under the direct supervision of my executor, Attorney Mitchell Berg.”

“To Harry Rote, my long-time friend and junior partner of my primary business by the name of Hoover’s Liquors, I leave my 80% share of the business now making the liquor distribution business entirely yours.

To my eleven business associates and employees of the Lucky Lady Dance Hall and Saloon, specifically Jake Cook, Maria Fuente, Katherine Kale, Job Kane, Tony Lucky, Chester Martin, Jeff Mills, Nanuet, Thom, Clarisee Townsend and Ruby West I leave my hopes and dreams. I presently have outstanding investments ranging from twenty-percent to eighty-percent of seven different mining properties within Eastern Cochice County which Attorney Berg has combined into the Hoover Mining Trust and of which I new leave each of you a nine-percent share. Nanuet has a puzzled look on his face when his name is mentioned.

To Clay and Hanna Milford, who provided me with a roof over my head during my first year in Promise City I leave all of the possessions within my room at the Lucky Lady. The furnishings should be of use to you for your boarding house and I believe that Clay and I are of comparable size in regards to my clothing.

Lastly, to my nephew Burt, I leave the only investment that I have ever made that has proven to be profitable, namely my twenty-five percent interest in the Lucky Lady Dance Hall and Saloon. You have always shown great potential and so Attorney Berg will see to it that you receive a fair and reasonable price should you decide to sell, with the majority of the proceeds invested to provide for your college education.” Berg folds up the paper and says, “So ends the reading of the will."

Jake laughs inwardly despite the somber occasion. My uncle never left me a share in a saloon, and I was eminently qualified to have one. Jake forces himself to not smirk. He was sad over the death of his friend Niles Hoover, and surprised that he was included in the man's will. Chester looks up in surprise at being named in the will. "A nine-percent stake? I had no idea he had so many interests."

Harry says, "He called it a whole lot of nothing. He and I both had a soft spot for prospectors who needed a grubstake to get started. So far none of those mines have done anything. The one that Attorney Berg referenced Niles owning 80% of was because he bought out the prospectors after it went bust to give them enough money to move on and make a fresh start elsewhere. I'm just as much of a sucker, I own the other 20% of that one." Chester replies, "Well, you never know when one will pay out. How's Thom working out? He seems to know the business well enough."

Harry says, "That he does, which is good. Job seems to be in a bit over his head with this management stuff." Chester scratches his chin. "Ruby and Jake aren't much for the details, I gather." Harry says, "You figure right, Chester." "You should get a manager. I'm sure Jake and Ruby would want that."

Berg looks to the youngster and says, "I have the paperwork here for you to sign Burt, to transfer your Uncle’s ownership of this building to you.” He gets them out of the satchel. The boy takes the papers and on the appropriate lines signs his full legal name of Herbert Clark Hoover.

"Well Burt," Ruby says, pushing hair our of her eyes, "Looks like you can stay here as long as you'd like." She tries to give the boy a reassuring smile. "Yes Ma'am," he states. She turns to Harry. "I think you'll do a fine job as Promise City's new liquor distributor. I hope you'll agree to stay here in the Lucky Lady." "Works for me," he states. He adds, "But you might want to think about hiring on another bartender or bouncer since that business will keep me mighty busy and with Jeff also now focused on being the town's Fire Marshall."

Ruby sighs. "I don't think now is the time to be making the business decisions but yes, you are right. We need someone else to help, maybe more than one person. Niles ran the Lucky Lady besides running the liquor operation. And with us opening as a hotel we also need someone who can help run that. We partners have a lot of decisions to make." She glances quickly at Burt and almost laughs. "Maybe tomorrow we can discuss it. Job, will you be here?" Job says, "Yes I will. Now that there's a daily stagecoach to and from Willcox I think that I may have finally convinced my Bernice to actually come here for a visit instead of my having to go there."

"So we finally get to meet the mystery woman! How exciting," Ruby smiles. "So then is tomorrow ok for you to go over business? Today just doesn't seem right." Job says, "Yes, that's fine. I figure that I'll spend tonight managing the place instead of dealing. Monday's are slow nights anyway and between Nile's funeral and the Incorporation meeting I doubt that most of my Monday regulars will be in much of a mood to play anyway."

Ruby nods, "Yes you are right." She pauses. "But then again, people may need friends and drinks, so who knows. Tomorrow we will figure out what to do." "Is the meeting soon?" He replies, "Yes, in around two hours." Ruby nods. "Time to get some food and rest. I'll see you later." She returns to Jake's side, sticking close by him.

Kate moved around the room, saying goodbye to everyone with the notable exception of Tony Lucky. Ruby and Jake were last. There wasn't much to say, so she simply hugged them both. "It's been an eventful day. I have some things to tell you about later, but now I have to get back to the school. I'll see you later." "Good luck Kate. Try to enjoy your first day." Ruby squeezes her back but still seems far away.

Nanuet approaches Jake once things start to settle down and asks "So am I to understand that Mister Hoover has left something of value to me? I am not certain what has taken place here." "Niles has indeed left you something, but whether it has any value besides his good wishes remains to be seen." Jake shakes Nanuet's hand, "You are now the proud owner of shares in some mining claims that have yet to produce any ore. They perhaps never will. Who can say? Do you know what a mine is?" Before the Indian can respond Jake says, "It is a hole in the ground owned by a liar." Laughing Jake adds, "At least some folks think that way. Others believe they will strike it rich beyond their wildest imaginations. I personally do not believe that. Never underestimate my imagination."

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter Forty-seven, “Incorporation Meeting”, Monday, May 29th, 1882, 3:15 P.M.

When Kate got home she went in through the kitchen door, running upstairs to change her dress. Somehow it seemed wrong to go back into the classroom wearing black. Thinking of how this all would have pleased Niles a smile crept onto her face as she rejoined Megan O'Hara and Mollie Caudell. A little staff meeting would be in order after dismissal, and then there was still the matter of registering the ranch as inside town limits and the incorporation meeting.

School is dismissed at 3:30 PM. The older Caudell children take the others home as Meagan and Mollie sit down with Kate to discuss how the day went and plan for the next day's lessons.

Kate gathered a few things and took the ladies into the kitchen where they could be more comfortable. She got a small fire going and set the kettle on for tea. Then she got out her lesson plans and the more long term notes she'd made about curriculum.

"I had been thinking it would just be myself, so they'll be some changes to be made to my plans. I'm relieved to have both of you with me. I haven't wanted to admit it, but I've been nervous about starting the school. Those three in the town hall this morning would never have dreamed the favor they were doing me. Since we're going to be working together it seems silly to keep calling each other Mrs., so Katherine or Kate will do just fine for me. Now, how did things go for you both today?" she asked, then listened intently as they talked about the day.

The women agree with Kate that when there are no children around they should address each other on a first name basis. They discuss the education level that each of the children are at and suggest a few changes in the groupings as they had originally split them by age but now see where some are more advanced than others.

At around 4:00 P.M. they are interrupted by Chumbley, who is going door to door selling newspapers to everyone who belongs to the Promise City Merchant's Association. He wishes to get the news of the morning circulated in advance of the meeting to prevent rumors from being spread instead.

The three front page stories all concern the trails. The main story is about the Indians, with an emphasis on young Nakomo's heroics. Chumbley had interviewed Marshall Berg afterwards and had a few more details to add than were presented in court, including the mention that brave young Nakomo is the nephew of Nanuet. In the discussion of the Indian conspirators it also mentions both the San Carlos Reservation tribal elders expelling them and Nanuet's helping Deputy Marshall Martin and Deputy Sheriff Hunter in the arrest. Chumbley concludes the story by emphasizing how elves, like humans, come in both good and bad and each needs to be judged on their own actions rather than their race.

The other two stories are about the two other trials. First it describes the trail against Berg and Barker and of Isby finding them innocent. Next is a story about the charges against Adair and Flynn, stating that it was continued until Tuesday and the two men will be spending the night in jail.

On page 7 is a full-page tribute to Niles Hoover that Neil Cassidy had paid for. Kate sees that Chumbley does indeed stay on top of the news as it mentions that the new school will be named for him.

Kate only spent a few minutes looking through the paper, but stopped at the tribute and read it fully. "I hadn't realized that Mr. Cassidy and Mr. Hoover were such good friends. I've been too wrapped up in my own concerns. I need to pick up my head and look around now and then." The three new teachers went back to their discussions and tried to work out how they were going to deal with students who would be there only occasionally until their parents decided where to have them educated permanently. Finally as they broke up the meeting Kate said, "Tomorrow we can work out what we think will be fair salaries and let Mr. Cassidy know. I want to thank you both again, I think we're going to do well."

After they left Kate cleaned up a bit, then ran over to the County Recorder's office to inform him that their ranch would be within town limits

Minerva arrives with Nakomo at Lacey’s General Store. Lacey happily welcomes the boy into this store. He holds up the latest copy of the Promise City Mirror and says "You made the front page young man, you've been hailed as a hero." They look around and Nakomo picks out some clothing. He then stops and focuses upon an Indian Dream Catcher hanging up on the side wall. Lacey says, "That's not for sale young man. It was my wife Erza's, she received it for helping a sub-chief's wife deliver their child. It was a complicated birth and without Erza's help both the mother and child would have died. It is supposed to bring good luck."

Nakomo turns Lacey and says, "Yes, The item is Yavapai, my tribe, and I have heard the same story before from the mother. It happened around thirty years ago." Lacey smiles and says, "Yes it did, we were in Phoenix at the time, near where the Yavapai lived then. Is the family still is good health?" Nakomo says, "Yes, the father Eskiminzin is now a tribal elder. They all now live on the San Carlos Reservation."

Minerva and Nakomo continue their shopping spree. Minerva is obviously having a grand time, piling up blankets and encouraging Nakomo to choose the things that he would like for his room. "If you tell me more of your life I shall weave your story into a tapestry for you to hang on the wall of your room. Would you like that?"

Nakomo is overwhelmed by Minerva's generosity and leaves Lacey's with his arms piled high with, toiletries, nick nacks and several sets of clothing, before they make their way home. She fills the tub with steaming water and instructs him to bath and change into clean clothes. When this is accomplished she says. "My, don't you look fine! Now we must find you some suitable weapons. It would not do for you to be unarmed and defenseless. Perhaps a knife that could concealed in your boot.

She thinks for a moment. "Here," she says handing him the silver dagger from one of the secret pockets in her upon the initial completion of my Cleric training by my dearest friend, Talia Rushmore." she says with affection. I would like it returned to me when we purchase you a blade of your own. Nanuet and I shall make time to take you to the desert tomorrow so that you can demonstrate your proficiency in handling a gun and a bow. If you are adept at this we shall arm you, if not, we shall teach you. "You can help me with the chores now and when Nanuet returns, we shall go into town and introduce you to our friends.”

Jake and Ruby manage to scrounge up some food from the kitchen and then pass the time before the meeting talking about nothing much. As they enter the meeting hall Jake says, "I have no idea what kind of lunacy will be on display here today, but I can only figure it will not be very pretty."

The Promise City Town Hall opens its doors at 5:00 P.M. and the members of the Merchant's Association begin to arrive. Chumbley takes his place outside to sell today's newspaper to those he hasn't personally delivered them to yet. While the combined group meeting to be facilitated by Judge Isby is set to start at 5:30 P.M. the Merchant Association's current present has asked his group to arrive fifteen minutes earlier so that they can conduct some of their own business first. Word had circulated that one of these pieces of business would be Evan Adair's call for Marshall Berg to be removed from his job, and an item most have an opinion on both pro and con.

The conflict between those two men is highlighted when they arrive together, Berg escorting his prisoner inside and staying alongside him. Deputy Marshall Helen Barker comes up to him and softly says, "Hey Mitch, why isn't your prisoner in handcuffs or manacles?" Berg says back to her, "Please Helen, let's try to not make matters worse. That would only give sympathy to his charges."

By 5:15 P.M. nearly all of the members of the Merchant's Association are present and Lumley calls the group to order. The first item of business is to recognize two membership changes. Harry Rote is recognized as the new owner of Hoover's Liquors, Josiah Arcadiam has transferred his vote for the Promise City Mirror to his wife Morgana, and Austin Blake has now registered his Drover's Livery with the Association as a separate business than Drover's Hotel with his wife Vera now casting her own vote for the Hotel. Bill Watkins raises an objection, saying they are just playing games to double their vote. Lumley counters by pointing out that since the two businesses have separate and distinct buildings that it is permitted. Kate overhears Roger Fly whisper to Neil Cassidy, "Damn, I hope my wife doesn't want to now do that too, dues for one business are high enough."

The next agenda item is the proposal to add Neil Cassidy as a fourth deputy. There is some controversy to that due to the previous night's events. Lumley points out that during this election period extra law enforcement is needed and Cassidy is willing to serve. The proposal passes but is only to be in effect until a new Town Marshall is elected, at which point the Marshall will be free to hire his or her own deputies which at that point will be reduced back to three.

The only other agenda item is Adair's proposal to have Marshall Berg removed from his job. Evan Adair stands and makes an impassioned plea on how Berg has abused his office and is unfit for the job. Ike Sherman is recognized and supports that position as well. It is obvious that both Neil Cassidy and Helen Barker wish to say otherwise but Berg urges them not to, noting their positions as deputies alone show a bias.

Kate stood up to speak and that since Mr. Berg took over the job of town Marshall that Promise City had been far more peaceful than before. Johnny Ringo had been stopped under his watch, and his extensive knowledge of the law was a boon to have in their Marshall.

She also argued how important continuity in the job was. The Marshall and Deputies work as a team and by taking Mr. Berg out of that equation the team would be weakened until a new working relationship could be established with a new Marshall. "Obviously, now is not the time to be weakening our law enforcement. Marshall Berg's only agenda is to uphold the law, and there are few I would trust as much as him to do so," she finished.

After Katherine speaks on Bergs behalf, Jake also rises and speaks. "The judge cleared the Marshall of all charges and found he acted reasonably. Marshall Berg is not one prone to violence, and has shown his dedication to the town and the rule of law. He risked his life so that justice could be served. Each of you look at yourself in the mirror," Jake points around the room, "and ask yourself, who you would trust standing outside that door protecting you if it was YOU waiting for justice to be served. How many other men would have done what he did? Marshall Berg has my support." Jake sits down.

Berg stands and says, "I accepted this badge and have worn it proudly. I have not and will not do anything that I do not feel is right. But I would prefer to be a lawyer than a lawman. I was one of the proponents of Incorporation and plan to wear this badge until a new Town Marshall is elected by all of the people of this town. But I will not run for that position and at that point in time I will gladly turn this badge over."

His announcement that he will not be the next Marshall tends to make the matter moot and when the vote to remove him is called for it is defeated overwhelmingly by a vote of 8 to 40. Judge Isby arrives and Lumley calls the meeting of just the Merchant's Association to be adjourned.

Judge Isby goes up to the podium as the few members of the Promise City Vigilance Committee who were also not on in the Merchant’s Association come in and take their seats. Isby states "We have several pieces of business to cover today in order to put this Incorporation Process into effect. Today we will decide exactly who can run for office and who can vote. Before we get into specifics on either let's discuss if the requirements for both should be one and the same.

A discussion follows for the next fifteen minutes. Many people feel that if somebody is allowed to vote they should also be allowed to run for office. The only sticking point appears to be that of residency. Isby states those in town who meet the yet-to-be-decided voter requirements should be allowed to vote as long as they register up to the final date of voter registration, even if they are newcomers on that day.

Others speak against "Carpetbaggers" running for office, not wanting somebody to just walk into town, a town they don't know, and decide to run for office. There appears to be a growing consensus that there should be some residency requirement to run for office, although there are differing opinions on how long that requirement should be.

When her turn comes to speak, Kate says, "We have to remember that Promise City is young, and no one has been here all that long. No more than a couple of years. I would suggest a time frame of a month before the last day of registration. That would leave everyone already here able to run, and prevent anyone hearing about the elections and coming here specifically to run for office from doing so.

I don't think it's necessary to make the requirement longer than that. It would be difficult for an unknown stranger to get elected even if they could run for office. The town is still small enough that a stranger would stick out like a sore thumb."

There seems to be some consensus to Kate's suggestion. The issue is then raised of "What's to keep somebody new from claiming they were here a month, especially those folks who live out on the ranches and at mines that don't come to town that often?"

County Recorder Dennis Winston points out that the majority of those properties only have the owners living on them, and that the ownership records are all on file and can be checked. Zeb Cook states "What about those larger ranches and mines, they have lots of employees."

Judge Isby says, "And we will find out today which of those mines, farms and ranches wish to be part of the town. We will wait until the end of the meeting to ask those owners so they know exactly what they are agreeing to. Once we know who wants to join it is just a matter of checking the payroll records to see who is recorded and has been paid for more than a month from the end of voter registration."

Rancher Nicholas Thayer states "I pay my men in cash, I don't have payroll records." It is pointed out that the Green Valley Farm and the Happy Strike Mine also pay their workers in cash.

Isby says, "Then if they decide to join the town Mr. Tomlinson and I will plan on visiting those places tomorrow morning to record the names of everybody working there." That seems to satisfy the crowd. A vote is taken which from the Merchant's Association totals 34 in favor of the one-month residency requirement for candidates, 14 opposed and 7 abstentions. That vote also confirms that all 55 voting members are present, something that has never before occurred.

The vote is then taken from the Vigilance Committee The three members who are also part of the Merchant's Association, namely Frank Condon, Bill Watkins and Zeb Cook vote as they had before with Condon and Watkins in favor and Cook opposed. Members Dennis Avery and Doctor Jim Eaton are also in favor so the motion passes.

The remaining issues to resolve are the questions of voter age, gender and race. Isby decides to start with age, as that will probably be the less contentious. Several people favor either eighteen or twenty-one. Although she is a member of neither group Angelica Young wishes to be recognized. Hearing no objection, Judge Isby allows it. She points out that she, like many young people in town, is below that age and yet are married, hard-working and productive citizens. She adds that most of the people trust her to give them the news of the town so why shouldn't they likewise trust her to be allowed to vote for the town's leaders.

Mr. Hooten of the Cochice Boarding house points out that he has borders that are ages seventeen and eighteen and are contributing citizens. Zackary Morand states that there are several ranch hands on his brother's Rocking-H ranch that are ages sixteen and seventeen and for all practical purposes are hard-working adults. Bill Watkins says, "This is ridiculous. We can't expect CHILDREN to decide who the town leaders are!" I say twenty-one!"

Kate listened as Bill Watkins opened his mouth, but kept her seat for the time being, listening to what others have to say. When the time came she said only, "There are those wiser at sixteen than some people are at sixty. I would not consider going any younger, but as we will expect these younger workers to follow the laws and pay the taxes, they should have some say in what those laws and taxes are."

Morgana stands to be recognized. "We must remember that Promise city and the west are not the east, yet even in the east where children are kept children for as long as possible 16 is the age where the coming out parties begin. It is the time where adults recognize that the children they have taught and reared have grown to have their own opinion and thought and will not be silenced anymore. Here by the age of 16 many "children" have children of their own they are working full time and paying for their own keep they have come of the age where it is expected of them to behave and act as any adult of the community. I believe that if we wait until the age of 21 for members of our community to be heard we will loose many of the most intelligent, hardworking individual for they will be able to go to other towns where their voices will be heard.”

Algelica Young stands to be recognized again. She asks "Would that be sixteen as of the day of voter registration or sixteen as of the date of the election?" Isby replies, "Would it make a difference?" She says, "It would in my case. My sixteenth birthday is the second week of June." Ibsy says, "I think that being qualified by election day would be sufficient."

The question of making the voting age sixteen is then put to a vote. It passes by a vote of 43 yes, 9 no and 3 abstentions. However, the three members of the Vigilance Committee also on the merchant's association were among the nine "no" votes. Isby says "I am going to now ask the Vigilance Committee for their opinion. Please bear in mind that the motion overwhelming passed from the Merchant's Association and if you really feel that this issue is really one worth fighting your customers over." They talk briefly among themselves. Bill Watkins repeats his "No" vote and Doctor Eaton votes "No" as well but the other three vote yes so it passes.

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter Forty-eight, “The Right to Vote!”, Monday, May 29th, 1882, 6:00 P.M.

Judge Isby proposes that Gender be the next topic. Helen Barker stands to be recognized. She keeps her speech short saying "You all known my opinion on this issue....and so do most of your wives and girlfriends." She then sits down.

Kate smothered a chuckle. She could learn a thing or two from Helen Barker about keeping it short and foreboding. This was the first time she'd heard Morgana Arcadiam speak, and the impression she'd already had of her intelligence was reinforced hearing her words. Kate listened to the discussion continue, waiting to add her own words until some of the windbags had deflated their lungs.

The discussion continues for a while. Bill Watkins reasserts his positions that only men should vote, that in the United States only men can elect the President and the representatives for Congress and this is how it should be.

Mollie Caudell then asks to be recognized. Isby recognizes her and she stands, attired in gray pants with a tan cotton overcoat above it. She says, "My name is Mollie Caudell, my maiden name was Bean. I am a new to town and will be one of the school teachers at the Niles Hoover Memorial Schoolhouse. I met my husband Nate during the war." She then removes her overcoat, revealing herself to be attired in a tattered Confederate Uniform.

Many of the audience gasp as she continues "Where I served for two-and-a-half years as a soldier in the North Carolina 47th Infantry. I had cut my hair and enlisted under the name Melvin Bean. Back then there were many soldiers serving who were too young to shave. After a couple of months the men in my company realized my true gender, but by then they had accepted me as one of their own and kept my secret. I was wounded at Gettysburg in '63 and was not mustered out until I received another injury in February of '65 and a doctor from outside of my company discovered my secret. If any man in this room thinks that a woman can't do a man's job, and have opinions on leadership the equal to any man, then let them speak to me." She then sits down.

Morgana stands "Many of the people here know me I am LADY Morgana Talks-with-trees O'Shea Arkadiam. I have many faces and all of them are represented here in this decision of who the town will allow to vote. I am Irish. I am Indian. I am woman. I am LADY, my husband is the son of an English Lord. I am the owner of the local paper. I am a representative of the Indian nation and a sanctioned negotiator for the Apache.

And I am also the person who carries the guns from Billy the Kid who I dispatched during an armed robbery of an individual of this town. As a group the people of this town would choose to possibility eliminate my voice from the political future of this town. I find that it would be unwise, to remove the choice of the way this town is to flourish from the individuals that live in it. Each of you has many faces why would you choose to only allow one to decide your future? The people of this town are exactly that the PEOPLE of this town allow them all the right and responsibility to mold their future to what it can and should be not limiting it to the narrow voice of only one face."

The vote is called for. The motion to allow women the right to vote passes by a vote of 22 in favor, 17 opposed and 16 abstentions. As before, Zeb Cook, Bill Watkins and Frank Condon are among the "no" votes, meaning it will fail among the Vigilance Committee.

At that point in time Mrs. Rebecca King stands and requests that a fifteen minute recess be called. Isby agrees. She asks all five of the Vigilance Committee members to join her for consultation over at the Great Western Boarding House. They get up to leave and she also signals for the various women of her sewing circle to all join them as well. They all leave the room and the crowd breaks into their own conversations.

Kate wasn't sure what to think of Mrs. King retiring with the committee. The invitation of the sewing circle was curious. Roger Fly had said Mrs. King wasn't so unreasonable once you got to know her. Considering her activities, it was possible she might not be against women voting. Or perhaps she was just inclined to save the fight for the race question.

She got up to stretch her legs and walked over to Mollie Caudell. The Confederate uniform had caused the usual tightening of her chest, and she knew if she didn't go talk to her right away, about anything, it would continue to bother her. Oddly, it didn't occur to her to question her about having served. Her intuition said Mollie had done it more to prove a woman could than in any great fervor for the cause. And if she was wrong she didn't want to know about it. She talked with the other woman for a few minutes, then spoke to Helen Barker, complimenting her on her tactics. "I'm a little worried though. If the vote for women is this tight, imagine the vote for race. This has gone so well I'm afraid they've been saving it up.'

Morgana walks over to Kate and Helen "Ladies I believe that woman will get the vote in this town. Between the sewing circle and the Vigilance Committee they have realized that there may be enough "respectable" citizens to carry their ticket, provided the women are allowed in the voting box. This however will do me little good as I do not see them ever supporting non-humans voting. And to them I am little more than a dressed up horse who has enticed a stray English gentleman out looking to sew wild oats. They have no idea how wrong they are in discounting my abilities or interest in this particular town."

Kate replies, "I wouldn't be sure they do discount you, Mrs. Arcadiam. It's just that strong interest that makes them nervous. It challenges their attempt to rule this town on their own terms and I doubt they are discounting any threats. If they've noticed me, they've certainly noticed you. We might be able to convince the Merchant's Association that all races should vote, but I don't know how to get it past the Vigilance Committee. Doctor Eaton and Mr. Watkins will not be moved. I don't know Zeb Cook or Derek Avery at all. Frank Condon could be made to see reason."

The Vigilance Committee and their friends return. Isby calls for their vote. Bill Watkins sticks firm to his male voters’ only position, casting a No vote to the proposal. The other four members of the Committee however vote Yes, Eaton doing so rather reluctantly, and the motion passes. Isby says, "Okay folks, it looks like one stumbling block remains, that of which races should be allowed to vote."

Travis Calhoun stands and is recognized. He states, "Hello, most of you know me. My brother and I own the Gunsight Brickyard. Together with my friend Neil Cassidy we founded the Committee for Racial Equality. Over the years we have hired a number of employees of all races, human, wood elf, high elf, orc and ogre. With our employees we have made the bricks and boards that comprise almost every building in town, including the one we are in here today. I do not see how anybody can now state that the people who put roofs over your heads are less deserving of representation than others. Thank you".

Morgana bends over to Kate "That was nicely done but I'm not sure that it will sway the committee what we need is that priestess to hand the Vigilance Committee something they can't battle that proves racial equality is demanded by the gods. Do you know if there is any scripture in the church where people of another race are praised or promised equal protection? What about Diana and the nymphs? Could we use those stories somehow?"

Kate reddened a bit, saying "I haven't really attended church since I was six or seven years old. They would probably perceive Diana's nymphs as servants even though they hunt together." She was quiet for a moment, thinking. "There are some stories I remember that may help. May Diana grant me eloquence."

She stood and once she was recognized began, "The many races of this town have followed the example of the gods in working together. Diana hunts with her nymph companions. The centaur Chiron was instructed by Apollo and Diana and many distinguished heroes came from the ranks of his students. Apollo entrusted his own son Esculapius into the Centaur's care, and with his wise tutelage the child grew to became the greatest of healers.

When the wise centaur died, he was placed in the heavens as Sagittarius. When Hippolytus spurned his stepmother Pheadra's advances, she turned his father against Theseus against him. He pled Neptune's wrath on Hippolytus, who was killed when Neptune answered Theseus' prayer. After Esculapius returned him to life, Diana placed Hippolytus under the protection of a nymph named Egeria.

The gods of the Greeks and Romans whom so many here follow embrace other races as helpers and teachers. As skilled people worthy to be heard and counted. Can we do less by denying all who are not human a vote? Can we deny the wisdom of the gods rather than follow their example?" Kate turns to take her seat and sees something she had not noticed before, her parents in the back of the room with her father's face beaming with pride over what his daughter just said. Her mother has a smile on her face is well and is crying. Kate sat down after catching a glimpse of her parents with a lump in her throat.

Judge Lacey, who led the town's weekly religious studies until the arrival of Priestess Florencia stands and says, "Thank you Mrs. Kale, I agree with your interpretation of the sacred texts. The gods do indeed look favorable upon all races."

Bill Watkins stands and says “Are you people insane? Sure, the gods recognize that there are different races, that don’t mean they see them as equal. What are you people talking about? Giving votes to the Indians? The hills to the east of here are filled with thousands of Apache Warriors. Just five months ago they wanted to ride down here and kill us all. And you want to extend citizenship to them?”

Flint Greymountain stands and asks to be recognized. He states, “The Apache in the Chirichaua Mountains do not want citizenship, we are only talking about a few Indians who live here in town among the town. I have an Apache woman named Naki-Yai who is an employee of my ranch. The Morand’s Rocking-H ranch employs a few Apache workers. I do not know of any others.” Watkins stands and says, “That’s today. If you allow Indians to vote what’s to keep Geronimo’s entire tribe from marching into town on the last day of voter registration and sign up to vote then?”

Judge Isby interjects, “I find that hypothetical situation a bit far fetched, but there’s nothing to stop this body from adding provisions to prevent such a situation. By noon tomorrow I will have a complete survey of all of the outlying ranches, farms and mines and can record the information by race as well as name. If by the close of registration on the number of registered voters for any race has increases by more than 50% of what I show tomorrow then that could be deemed as grounds to reconvene and reconsider this issue, otherwise what is decided today regarding race would stand.”

A vote is called on that amendment to the original motion which passes by a vote of 31 to 16 with 8 abstentions. Isby calls for a five-minute recess. Kate was unsurprised by Bill Watkins objections, and pleased by how neatly Judge Isby undermined his argument. "That is some small victory at least," Kate said quietly to Morgana.

Morgana tells Kate" And thus we can assure that the town has equal footing for women but may have the wisdom of centuries old experience from some of the original population. Nicely spoken Mrs. Kale I'm in rather a bind as I will not be taken seriously when I speak because of my mixed background. The true question is still will I get the chance to vote.

If things get truly sticky I may need to suggest literacy requirement and set up select lessons for adults who might need to have assistance. I don't want to do it but it may allow the non-human vote to pass as the truly bigoted individuals will assume that the "lesser ones" would not have the intellectual capacity to read. It would also ensure a literate population and maybe take some of the more bigoted humans out of the equation few bigots want to admit that they can't read a ballot."

"I had thought of something like that myself, but didn't want to risk making it difficult for members of other races who couldn't read, or at least couldn't read English. I have to say though, I'm comforted by the idea that everyone voting would not need someone to help them with their ballot. Those who can't read could easily be led to believe they voted for one candidate when they in fact voted for another. I'm sure my school would be happy to offer after hours lessons in reading to any who wanted it," she finished with a smile.

Morgana replies, “The other possibility would be to have a designated reader known for impracticality available to individuals who couldn't read English similar to the individuals who will be needed to count ballots. Or possibility a team with different views to balance each other out so neither side could suggest non-impartiality on a specific sides part.

Two doors down, Chester paces in the Marshall's Office. He says to himself, “How is that meeting turning out? Things are going to be tense around here no matter what, though. I just hope the vote goes the right way. How am I supposed to enforce the law if it doesn't apply to everyone evenly?” Clarisse Townsend heads into the Marshall's Office. She exclaims, "Chester, this is so exciting. Women will get a chance to vote! It is just been decided upon!"

Chester picks her up and swings her around. "That is great news, Clarisse. You can pick your leaders and then complain when they turn out to be crooked, just me." He sets her down and says, "What about giving the vote to non-humans? I bet there were some mighty arguments about that."

She replies, "They were just getting started on that now but I was so excited about the women's vote that I had to come tell you. The Vigilance Committee was going to vote against it but Mrs. King asked for a recess and we helped to convince them that there were far more respectable women in this town seeking law and order than women of the other opinion, so our slate of candidates will be helped by that."

Chester raises an eyebrow. "'Our' slate? What group are you with? Isn't Mrs. Fly with the Vigilance Committee?" She answers, "Oh Chet, you know I support Law and Order. So do the Vigilance Committee and the Cattleman's Association. Don't worry dear, the group plans to keep you on as Deputy Marshall. They may keep Mr. Cassidy too."

He answers, "That's good to hear. Last thing Promise City needs is replacing all the lawmen. I don't want Adair getting his men in this office. So how do we celebrate your getting the vote? They lowered the voting age, so you can vote, right?" She says, "Of course silly. Otherwise I wouldn't be so excited." He states, "That's doubly good. Once I get relieved, we can have a picnic. It's been a while since we've done that. How does that sound?" She says that will be a wonderful idea.

The meeting resumes. Cole Rixton stands and makes a short speech for the equal representation of all races within the town. Evan Adair counters by blaming the previous night’s disturbances on the Indians and saying that it is stupid to consider allowing any race except human to vote. Ike Sherman then stands and agrees with Adair.

Judge Lacey stands and while looking at Sherman says “Thank you Ike, you made your position known to the town yesterday when you stood with those seeking vigilante justice. I think the opposite of you, as you saw when I stood with those seeking law and order.” Doctor Eaton stands and says, “I object to Mr. Lacey’s contention. The United States is a human land, ruled by humans. Human superiority is a fact of life and there are many of us who believe in law and order who feel that way.”

"Human superiority is not a fact, it is a presumption," Kate said after she was again recognized. "The United States fought a war not so long ago, one of the objectives of which was to end the treatment of ogres as less than humans. In 1870 the right to vote was extended to ogres. The presumption of human superiority does not and should not extend to the ballot box.

Every race has its good and kind people, and its evil and selfish. It doesn't matter if they are human, elf, halfling, dwarf, orc or ogre. Generalizations rob us all of the help we can be to one another, of friends we haven't yet met, and right now, in this town, they are attempting to rob many of its citizens of their right to have a say in matters than can drastically affect their lives."

Eric Lee Smith who manages the Promise City Hotel is the next one recognized. Kate is not surprised when he adds his voice to that of the human-only group, given that he only allows humans to stay overnight at his hotel. She is however disappointed when Kate Higgins of the Long Branch Hotel, Conrad's employer, also stands to voice the same ideas. She says that it was the humans who turned this plot of land into a town so why shouldn't they be allowed to elect its leaders.

Tector Driscoll, the town tanner, then stands. Kate does not know the man other than the fact that he relocated his tannery further out of town and sold his previous building shortly after she and her planned school became her neighbors. He says, "I'm a simple man, but I know what my Pappy told me. He said, son, never trust people who aren't like you. They think live different, they think different and they'll stab you in the back if you give them the chance. I say that we keep this a human town."

Kate clenched her fists in her skirt and tried to stop the tide of red that was crossing her face. "I'm not sure there's much more I can say," she said to Morgana. "How can they not understand? All their reasons boil down to not wanting anyone but humans to vote because they don't understand anyone else. Don't they understand that by denying people a voice they are creating the situations they fear?"

Michael Seawell then stands and asks to be recognized. He addresses the crowd, “Hello, many of you know me, I am Colonel Michael Seawell. I could appeal to you based upon my Civil War service and remind you of the tens of thousands of men who bled and died so that other races could be free. But instead, let me make this an economic appeal.

This town was built around the four local mines, each within a few hundred feet of where you stand now. Today those mines exclusively employ human labor and most appear to have a bias towards humans. I’ll remind you, the Liberty Hill mine struck water and had their first mine flooded out at a depth of only 200 feet. The other mines have not dug that deep yet, and if they do I suspect they will also hit water. That means that the amount of ore easily obtained from those mines is now rather finite. If you honestly feel that the economic future of this town is with those mines and those mines alone then a vote for only humans to have representation makes sense.

I am a managing partner of the Morand-Seawell Mining Company. I served as the Chief Geologist of the United States Army and have had a career of locating precious metals. My company now owns over a dozen properties in the region and our first two mining ventures have proven fruitful. I would hazard to guess that by this time next year the vast majority of this region’s silver and gold ore will come from my mines. I employ many non-human laborers. They not only work for me but get to keep a percentage of the profits from every ounce of silver or gold that they help to extract. The only other new mine in the region to find a rich vein is the Fisk Mountain mine, and one of its owners is a non-human. These mines are the town’s future.

One reason that this town plans to Incorporate is to be able to issue taxes. Who here likes to pay taxes? How are taxes assessed? Usually based upon either the property values or the amount of revenue generated. As of today my company plans to join this town. I believe that my business partner Forest Morand plans to have his Rocking-H Ranch join as well. His is the largest ranch in Cochise County. I suspect that very shortly he and I will both be the two largest taxpayers in this region and every dollar that we pay in taxes is a dollar that is not coming out of your own pocket.

But if you decide to exclude our workers from being allowed to elect this town’s leaders then why should be want to join this town? We could remain independent and pay for none of the town‘s expenses. And I could take all of my ore elsewhere to be processed and also encourage my workers to take all of their business elsewhere as well. I am certain that the towns of Willcox, Tombstone and Dos Cabezas would welcome us. I cannot speak for Mr. Morand, but I would not be surprised he does not feel exactly the same way about his ranch. Thank you for listening.” He then takes a seat.
A long pause follows as people consider the ramifications of what was just said.

Hezekiah B. Chumbley stands and is recognized. “Hello, most of you know me. I am the editor of the Promise City Mirror and am obviously a non-human. I have written many editorials during the last week on the subject of letting all races vote. I strongly believe in that and feel that many of the people in this town do as well. Mr. Niles Hoover gave his life for that belief. But many of you feel strongly that only humans should vote. You are entitled to have that belief and I will respect you for having that opinion.

The owners and reporters from my paper are all present today. We find this event very newsworthy and will we watching and recording ourselves every vote cast here today. Tomorrow’s newspaper will have a complete listing, so that everybody in town will know which people and businesses feel which way. I encourage you to all stand up for what you truly believe in and to show it now with either a Yes or No vote! Do not take the coward’s way out of abstaining. Vote from your heart with either Yes or No and be prepared to then stand by that decision when your friends, neighbors and customers ask you about it.”

Judge Isby says “I think we have had enough debate on this subject, I'm not sure that any further talking at this point will sway opinions either way. There is an amended motion on the floor to extend the right to vote to citizens of the town for all races. All those in favor?" Kate did not hesitate to thrust her hand in the air in favor of allowing all races. Even as she did so she scanned the room, trying to count the hands in agreement with her.

Hands go up from Morgana Arcadiam, Rudy Baines, Helen Barker, Austin Blake, Vera Blake, Hannibal Brown, Al Brower, Travis Calhoun, Neil Cassidy, Jake Cook, Rufus Davis, Pedro Figures, Roger Fly, Laurie Gilson, Pierre Jacquet, Katherine Kale, Kevin Kelly, Judge Lacey, Russell Lee, Steve Lord, Randall Mason, Zachary Morand, Cole Rixton, Harry Rote, Kris Wagner, Don Wainwright and Charlie Wong. Isby makes the count, as do many others coming to a total of 27 of the 55 members, one vote shy of a majority.

Kate felt herself trying to will just one more hand to rise, as if she had tied a string around someone's wrist and could now just pull it. "Let us hope for two abstentions," she whispered. Her eyes fell on Frank Condon, who had apparently forgotten his friends. Her gaze grew more intent than she realized as she waited for Judge Isby to continue the vote.

Judge Isby says, “All those opposed?” Hands go up from Evan Adair, Carl Berman, Frank Condon, Zeb Cook, Tector Driscoll, Duncan Frye, Michael George, Tim Gorch, Dick Hammer, Kate Higgins, Lincoln Hood, Ezra Hooten, Don Hudson, Kay Kaufman, Peter Lovelace, Dave Melany, Clay Milford, Greg Reston, Ike Sherman, Sam Slade, Eric Smith, Haywood Smith, Paul Stevens, Bill Watkins and Henry Weller. Isby takes the count. He asks, “Abstentions?” Hands go up from Alton Boyd, Biff Johnson and Burton Lumley. Judge Isby announces “The motion passes by a vote of 27 to 25.” Kate's chest actually hurt as the breath she'd been holding was finally released. "Now we're in for it with the Vigilance Committee, but I'm proud it just got past the Merchants," Kate whispered.

The Judge then asks for a vote of the Vigilance Committee. Since all three members also in the Merchant’s Association voted had no, given that Doctor Eaton had expressed negative views before and given that member Derrik Avery’s boss Paul Stevens had also voted no most people expect a unanimous no vote. However Avery surprises the crowd by voting yes instead, earning him angry stares from his colleagues as the Judge rules the vote defeated by a vote of 1 to 4.

Judge Isby declares, “We are at an impasse which I do not feel will be resolved at this point in time with further discussion. We will reconvene here on Wednesday morning at 7:00 A.M. to hopefully resolve this one outstanding issue. This meeting is adjourned.”

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter Forty-nine, “Dinner with the Seagram Family”, Monday, May 29th, 1882, 6:30 P.M.

Morgana shifts over so that only Kate can hear her. "Now we need to prove to the town how much power the non-humans actually have on its future. There are two banks in town, one has a head teller that voted yes the other has an owner that voted no but both bank managers voted no. I believe that if we hit the banks in the pocketbook by removing any non-human funding. The negative bank currently will not only show the power that the non-human population can have monetarily on this town but make our point quite nicely, quietly and legally.

Morgana then pulls Chumbley aside "I want you to get a hold of all of the non-humans that you can. Quietly tomorrow morning we are going to begin to pull all non-human based money out of the banks. After all, if our addled little non-human brains can't understand the possibilities of politics then how ever can we understand the idea of banking! I'll start first thing in the morning by removing all of the funding not only from my personal account but also from the paper's account from the bank we need to start withdrawals slowly as a trickle so they don't think it's a run. We will continue removing assets so that they realize how much this town already depends on its non-human inhabitants.

This is going to be a busy few days I also need to make sure that non-humans begin to strongly support the merchants that voted in favor of the vote. And let me know who may need assistance if the humans stop frequenting their businesses. We need to do this quietly and hold if we really want access to the vote. Lets see what will happen to these bigots when they can't get their clothing clean or their paper delivered or their meals cooked.”

Kate says, "My friends and I all took our money out of that particular bank long ago over another issue. I wish I could take my money from both banks, but I have to keep it somewhere. If you can't vote at the ballot box, vote with your money. I had planned to stay out of the businesses that voted no myself, and I'll make sure my family does the same. I wish Mr. Booth had more options for employment, but as it is I will just have to stop sitting in on any Sunday night games. That's neither here nor there. I'll see how many humans I can get to support you as well."

Morgana looks right at Kate "you do have somewhere to keep your money and it's safer than any bank in town. I need to go talk to Dorita and let her know what happened I also am starved anyone want to get some food?" "Very true," Kate admitted. "I suppose I have always tried to do for myself as much as I can, so it never occurred to me. And yes, I'm always hungry these days. I saw my parents at the back of the hall and they're staying at the El Parador. I'm sure we could all use something."

Over in the Marshall’s Office Chester and Clarisse chat for another half hour until the meeting adjourns, at which time Mitchell Berg returns with his prisoner Evan Adair accompanied by Helen Barker. Helen says, "Okay Chet, looks we have things under control here. You and Miss Townsend can go enjoy yourselves." Berg says, "You too Eddie." Deputy Rodriguez asks, "What was the decision regarding the various races voting?" Helen replies, "Split, Merchant's in favor, Vigilance against. We meet again Wednesday morning to see if there's any change of feeling."

Chet replies, "Thanks, Marshall. Have a good night all." Chester and Clarisse leave. He says, "Let's go pick up something from the El Parador. Dorita misses us." They ask Dorita for a meal suitable for a picnic and head out to a place by the stream.

They find a nice spot along Pine Creek a few hundred yards from town. It is quiet and peaceful, a significant contrast from just two nights earlier when the violence erupted. They eat and watch the sunset together. Following the meal Clarisse says, "Will you be coming to watch me sing tonight? I'll be at both the Lucky Lady and the Comique this evening, in fact we should get going soon or I'll be late."

He says, "Of course, I am. Too bad you have to sing tonight. It's so nice to spend time with you. Let me gather the things and we'll go. The Comique, first?" "No, Chet. The Lucky Lady, then the Comique."


Outside of Town Hall the Seagrams run into Kate. Frederick says, "Katherine, I've never been more proud of you. What you said was marvelous and it appeared to have been heard by enough to vote the way they should have." "Mrs. Arcadiam suggested arguing from a religious point," Kate said uncomfortably. "Many others spoke today as well. There is no way to know if what I said made any difference at all. Now we can only hope the Vigilance Committee can be brought around."

The Seagram family retreat to the El Parador where they sit down for one of Dorita's excellent dinners. Frederick Seagram says, "That man who spoke up against both the Marshall and non-humans, Adair, isn't he the one who you said you had a problem with before?" Phillip interjects, "According to the newspaper he'll be tried tomorrow morning for starting Saturday night's riot."

"Good, I have no doubt that he had a hand in whipping up that mob. We did have trouble with him. Ruby and I went into his saloon once where he offered us work. I'm sure you can guess what kind. Ruby slapped him and I threw a drink on him. He's tried to burn the Lucky Lady down among other things. It quieted down after Mr. Hoover became an owner. Apparently Adair thought better of crossing the town’s source of alcohol."

Frederick Seagram says "Well, Mr. Morand and I were talking earlier and he seemed to think that Adair was planning to put forward his own slate of candidates with somebody named Fisk for Mayor, a Deputy Sheriff Hunter as their Town Marshall and Adair on the Town Council. I imagine you know of each of them. Could that group really get enough support to be elected?"

Kate replies, "Not from anyone I know or associate with. Fisk is well known as a cheat and a snake. Deputy Hunter could have a chance. I don't know much about him except that he followed Conrad and I out of town once and has been known to follow others. They'd get no support from the Vigilance Committee either. The unknown factor would be all the miners and ranchers who spend time in the Palace and some of the other saloons. People tend to vote what they know, and they know Adair as someone who gives them a good time. And you reminded me, I need to speak to Mr. Shaw about the Cattleman's Association.”

Frederick says, "He's a good man. I got to know him Saturday night at the Veteran's meeting before that trouble broke out. That Cattleman's Association is a good idea. Morand is somewhat hesitant about joining with Anse King, but says he isn't as extreme in views as his wife. She apparently has a reputation for being, well, a bit of a shrew." "Frederick" Amelie exclaims. He says, "I'm just repeating what was said."

Kate asks, “Tell me, did you notice anything at the meeting that might help get the vote for other races? I'm afraid my own preconceptions probably colored what I heard. Votes from other races would help keep Adair out."

Henry interjects "It sounds to me like those newspaper people, the little halfling and that woman you were talking to who said she owned the paper, are the ones to watch. Them making it clear that they were going to print in the paper the names of who voted what was a good idea."

Frederick says, "I liked what that little guy said, calling those who abstain cowards. That probably prompted a lot of people to vote who wouldn't have otherwise." Phillip says "Not everybody, I heard one of the guys who abstained say afterwards that he did so only because of what the halfling said, he took it as a challenge."

Ginnie pops through the door of the kitchen plate of food in one hand glass of milk in the other and a half eaten cookie tucked in her mouth. "Hi Ma'am Kate. Wow Dorita is really fast. I grabbed a cookie and she smacked my hand before I got it off the plate. She also told me" Ginnie slips in to a remarkable imitation of Dorita "If you think you keep that cookie you have some real food first. No supper, no cookie!"

I've been thinking about the boy that came in the Hoover kid. What about setting him up with the Barkers? I know they the room and they are respectable and upstanding even if a little odd. I can't see his mother being upset with him staying with a deputy instead of hanging around alone at the Lucky lady he's just doesn't seem built for that kind of place. At the very least he'd likely get himself into less trouble with Mr. Barker looking after him.

Kate leaned over and kissed Ginnie's forehead, regardless of whether it embarrassed her or not. "I don't know who is responsible for the boy right now, or if he's even staying. I left the reading of the will rather quickly since I wanted to get back to the school. Job will probably know. We can ask him at the Lady tonight if any arrangements have been made. I'm not sure how Mrs. Barker would feel about it. I have no doubt she'd be generous enough to do it, but I don't quite see her as motherly. Of course, her husband is motherly enough for them both."

Kate turned back to her family and said, "I'm not comfortable working with Mr. King either, but it seems unwise to turn down the offer. The cattlemen are planning to try to work with the Vigilance Committee, which doesn't tickle me either but compromises must be made I suppose. I'll have to talk with Mrs. Arcadiam again. We've never met before but she was a very interesting woman."

Ginnie replies, “I think she's with our teacher. Dorita was muttering in Spanish about redheaded birds and the trouble that they cause. She was filling two plates when I was in the kitchen, that's why I figured I could grab the cookie and not get caught.”

Kate says, "I may run up before we leave, just to let him know what went on with the school today. I don't have anything in particular to say to the lady, but as we share a teacher we should know each other. I wonder if the trouble has to do with that telegram Ruby sent from Tucson. Well, if he wants me to know he'll tell me. How do you think school went today, Ginnie?"

She replies, “It worked fairly well I believe, but there are some kids that I don't think are in the right place for some of the lessons but I'm not the teacher. Having different teachers worked well too. I was afraid that I'd spend the entire time in my age group tutoring instead of having a chance to do some work myself. I need to be careful or find a way to talk to the other teachers or they will think I'm ready to take exit tests, which I could pass if I wanted to but that would cause me some problems in town I think.

Do you think you could talk to them for me Ma'am Kate? I don't want anyone thinking I'm either skating or too smart, that would blow my cover in town and could cause me a lot of problems. Heck, the best thing I have going for me when we're dealing with Cowboy gangs or other thugs is that they underestimate me and I want that to continue as long as I can make it happen.

I'm still trying to figure out how to balance the schoolwork at the school, the job at the seamstress, my lunch runs and the work with the after school "special" education and bussing tables at night at the Lucky Lady. I also need to really think about stocking the special ‘Kitchen’ I have at the ranch before things go by without being prepped for when they might be needed.”

Kate answers, "We'll be rearranging some of the classes tomorrow. It will probably take a few days to get everyone settled in the right class for them. I'll talk to Mrs. O'Hara and Mrs. Caudell. You could pass the exit exams now, and there's no hiding that. But you shouldn't have to be and adult yet just because you can think like one. I think I can make the argument that right now its more important for you to be in the environment with children your own age. There's time for you to take the exams later when you're ready to go to a prep school or college.

We could stay out at the ranch next weekend if you like, so you can get the work done in your "kitchen." I may have to stop working at the Lucky Lady myself, although I'd still come in to help out. Or perhaps only work on Fridays and Saturdays.

Ginnie says, “You know for people who didn't know what we were going to do in Promise city we've gotten rather busy. I don't want to give up bussing tables, that's how I find out a lot of what is going on in town and pick up some cash too. But I think your right school nights need to be for study. I'd like to spend the weekend in the Kitchen there are a lot of useful things coming into bloom that I want to take advantage of and I might be able to start trading some of it for other things we need for...um other things.

We lost a lot of ground when the books and things went up in the fire but I think given some time I can make up for some of it if I just put my mind to the puzzle of what we have versus what we need. It should be fun. Oh and I have a couple of new things I want to show you that I have um...picked up lately.”

"The good thing about not knowing what you're going to do is that you could end up doing absolutely anything," Kate laughed. "We will stay out at the ranch this weekend then and give Sonoma some company beside Flint. I'm sure I'll be back and forth into town, but that's alright. It's only a mile. And I would love to see what you've picked up. We have to stop being quite so busy and start being a little lazy together."

Frederich spoke up and said, "I'm a little confused. I thought your school was only going to have you for a teacher." "So did I," Kate said. "But I had a few surprises this morning." She went on to describe how Mollie Caudell had come to the school with news, and the morning's events that followed. "In the end it came out well. I have two more teachers so I don't have to try to keep everyone busy myself and I don't have to fear getting sick or needing to be away and having no one to cover. And with the Committee for Racial Equality's sponsorship, I'll actually make a salary instead of having to charge tuition. I just hope the human parents decide our school is the better place for their children."

"I am certain that they will," Henry comments. The meal continues for another half hour, after which the Seagrams excuse themselves. Frederick says, "I hope you don't mind if we make ourselves scarce this evening. Mr. Lacey has invited your mother and I to a scripture reading and prayer service over at his house tonight, he feels that it will be helpful for the conflicts sure to arise the next few days."

Phillip interjects, "And Mr. Booth has invited me and Henry to be his guests tonight at the Long Branch." Henry rolls his eyes and says, "Yes, it is my responsibility to make sure that Phil gets back to our room at a reasonable hour."

"Oh. I... Well, you've already told Mr. Booth you would go, so you should. But Mrs. Higgens who owns the Long Branch voted against giving the vote to non-humans. I personally do not intend to spend any time there in the future. Or at least until after the elections." She softened her face and smiled at her brothers. "But I certainly approve of you getting to know Mr. Booth. So have a good time. If he should invite you again though, I'd ask you to propose an alternative."

Phillip doesn't have to be told twice as he grabs his brother's arm and pulls him out the door. Dorita had apparently caught part of that conversation, not surprisingly since she misses nothing, and approaches Kate. She says, "Mr. Booth eat here earlier while meeting go on. He say he can find real opinion from people better by asking people what happened and getting first impression which they not tell him if he were there too."

"That does make sense," Kate said. "I just wish he had some other options for employment. I know he likes how Mrs. Higgens runs the tables, but... I'll have to talk with him tomorrow and see what he found out. Honestly Dorita, it went better than I'd expected. I had great hopes, but I hadn't really expected the vote for non-humans to get past even the Merchant's Association."

She smiles and says, "Never underestimate good people." She heads back to the kitchen, calling for Ginnie to assist her. Kate's parents say that they will be heading over to Lacey's for the service. Frederick pauses and with a little hesitation in his voice asks, "Would you like to come with us?" Kate hugged her father tight for a moment, then kissed his cheek. "You go on, Papa. I'm... I should go see my teacher." Fredrich's sigh was nearly imperceptible, but Kate had been listening for it. Once her and her mother had left for Judge Lacey's she went up the stairs and into Mr. Gonzales rooms.

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter Fifty, “Caine Returns”, Monday, May 29th, 1882, 6:30 P.M.

Meanwhile, Nanuet returns to the Priestess’s house. He listens to Minerva tell him all about the shopping she has done for Nakomo and he explains that he has been given part of Hoover's investments in his will. "I am still worried about Nakomo's safety, and perhaps my own as well. We must still be careful and I am not even sure how safe it is for us to stay here."

She states, "The Judge has ruled that Nakomo must do his community service. I do not think that we can just remove him from Promise City without permission from the court. He did not leave home on good terms with the tribe. It is quite possible that his own people are angry with him and may treat him poorly. Perhaps it would be best if you made the journey and explained things to them, find out if he is welcome, before you send him back. After all look what happened the last time they appointed him guardians.

I believe that he has many friends here and that it will be easier to keep him safe if he stays put. Many people here believe him to be a hero. Let me read you the article that was in the newspaper today." Minerva picks the paper up off the table and recites the article about how Nakomo prevented the other elves from committing murder. Please Mi Amor, I promise that I will keep an eagle eye on him and I'm sure that our friends will take him under there wings as well. If you travel alone it will not take you long and when you return he will have fulfilled his obligation here.

He replies, "Well you have become attached rather quickly have you not? I never said I wished to remove him from your sight so quickly, just said I am worried about his safety. I understand that he has some work to do around here before he would be allowed to go anywhere. If you wish me to discuss his status with the tribe elders then I will."

She replies, "Si, I do seem to have developed a rather strong instinct to protect him, but perhaps it is because I see a bit of how you must have been as a boy in him. He is brave and honest like his cousin Nanuet and will surely grow to be a great man with the proper guidance." Her eyes sparkle as she wraps her arms around him in return. "When I look at him I can almost see what our own children will look like. Si, I would prefer that he stay here and that you stay here as well, Mi amor. Minerva changes into fresh clothes and She and Nanuet take Nakomo over to the Lucky Lady for dinner.

It had taken Alison Caine ten days to get here from Abilene. If she’d really pushed the horse, she could have made it eight, but she’d been nothing but dog-tired for going on three weeks now. The gods knew why. Maybe it was just everything she’d been through lately. Three months, not just running – she was used to running – but on the run from dangerous men with death on their minds. And then they’d caught up.

At midday she stopped at a water-hole, filled her canteen, ate the last of her food, let the horse drink. Six hours, maybe seven, to Promise City. It was a long time since she’d been down this way, sword at her side and rifle slung over her back, riding out into the desert with Isaac O’Dell. Those memories still made her smile, wry and bitter. Beer and bullets and blood. She washed her face in the muddy creek water and got back on her horse.

It was almost seven by the time she got to Promise City, hot and dusty from her long journey. She swung down from the horse and hung onto the reins to support her shaky, exhausted legs. Then, sweeping a strand of hair behind her ear, she looked around at the dusty streets.

“Now,” she said to herself softly. “Where to?” A crowd is mulling about on Fremont Street in front of the Town Hall building where it appears that some sort of meeting has just ended. Al Caine sees a man who she recognizes, the manager of the Bar H stables which are situated across the street from the Town Hall. She doesn't recall his name but he was the man who she bought her horse from in this town less than a half-year earlier. The horse has served her well so she decides that she might as well go and board the horse back at his stable while she is in town.

Al takes her hat off, reties her hair and puts the hat back on. She wipes one grubby hand across her grubby face and gently takes the horse's reins to lead her, slowly and carefully, towards the stables.
She's so tired. She stays as far away from the crowd as she can get, which isn't far, as she leads the horse down the street. It seems to take forever to get to the stable entrance, where the manager is standing. "Sir," she says in a faint voice, trying to get his attention. Then louder: "Um, sir?"

The man stops and turns towards Al, giving her a quick glance. "Yes?" he then asks. "How much to board my horse?" Al asks. Her tone is terse, but her free hand is twisting in her hair nervously. "Just for the night." He looks at the horse and says, "Looks like you've been riding it hard. A night's boarding will cost you fifty-cents, that includes meals tonight and tomorrow morning of both hay and grain. Would you like me to put you saddle in the tack room or are you taking it with you?"

Al fumbles in her pocket and produces a handful of coins. "Uh... yeah, take the saddle. Thanks." She hands the coins to the man and gives her horse's mane a friendly stroke before passing him the reins.
Thank you Ma'am," he states as he leads the horse away to his corral and stable. Most of the people have now left the Town Hall, heading off to the various restaurants and saloons of the town.

During Al's last visit to the town her cousin Job played cards at the "Lone Star Dance Hall and Saloon" at the northeast corner of Main and Allen Streets. She heads in that direction and sees that the two-story brick saloon is no longer there, having been replaced with a larger three-story saloon that extends much further back up Allen Street. It has a big sign reading "Lucky Lady Dance Hall and Saloon" above the door. Al raises her eyebrows in surprise. She adjusts her hat slightly on her head, shrugs her pack onto her back, and steps inside.

Inside the Lucky Lady, Alison glances around for Job - or indeed, anyone she might recognize. It's been less than half a year, but it feels like a lifetime. She looks around the room. A large man by the door who she has not seen before says that he needs to check her weapons, that she will get them back when she leaves. The room has around fifteen patrons in it at the moment, an even mix of well-dressed and roughneck. She notices a young blond boy of around six or seven sitting by himself at one of the smaller tables near the stage and eating his supper.

The man behind the bar is unfamiliar to her, as is the young man in the suit playing the piano. She recognizes the Mexican woman coming out of the kitchen carrying a tray with plates of food, but believes it was a different saloon that she saw this woman in last time. A man enters from the side door who she finally recognizes. It isn't her cousin but is the other gambler who had worked here the time before. He heads right over to a table where three people are waiting for him and takes out a deck of cards.

Al gives the bouncer her weapons - rifle, sword and dagger - and watches as the gambler takes his seat and deals. She heads towards the table, taking long strides, trying not to look as tired as she feels. She doesn't take a seat, but stands beside the dealer. "Pardon me," she says as he finishes passing out cards. "Do you happen to know where Job Kane is?"

The gambler says "His game usually doesn't get going until 8:30, around an hour from now. He may be managing the place tonight instead though, our regular manager went and got himself shot and killed on Saturday. Job should be along in around another half-hour or so." "Thanks," says Al. She walks to the bar, where she shrugs off her heavy pack, letting it fall to the ground with a loud thud. After dithering for a moment, she orders a shot of whisky, takes off her hat and sits at the bar, nursing her drink and looking around.

Minerva enters the lucky lady and scans the room to see who is there. She finds them a table which allows them to see those who enter. He sees a familiar figure sitting at the bar in the Lucky Lady and nursing a glass of whiskey. A human woman in her early twenties, tall and skinny with dirty blonde hair, wearing men's clothes, leather armor and a battered old hat. Al Caine. She looks up as the door swings shut behind him and Minerva. "Well, I'll be damned!" says Al incredulously. "Nanuet, you ain't still hanging round this town?"

Nanuet excuses himself and walks to the bar. "Well look what the wolves dragged in! Al, Is that you? He says with a grin. What brings you back to Promise City?" He looks her up and down noting the dirt on her clothes and the weary look in her eyes. "Looks like you been on the trail a while" Al stands and removes her hat. "This and that," she says, grinning back but looking frankly exhausted. "Visiting with my cousin Job, if I can ever find him. You're looking well. How's Arizona been treating you?"

His grin gets wider as he nods his head in Minerva's direction. "Arizona is treating me just fine, Al Life couldn't be sweeter." Job should be on in a while. It's been a hard day for him. Had to bury his partner" Al smiles back, just a bit sadly, looking past him at Minerva. "Glad to hear it," she says.

Then she reaches into her pants pocket and turns to grab the barman's attention. "Can I buy you a drink?" she asks. "And something for your lady friend, too?" Minerva states, "Looks to me like you could use one. Come and sit with us and take a load off. I will introduce you to my woman and my cousin. Maybe we can help? Minerva is the town preacher, helping is what she does."

Al smiles and bends down to grab her pack. "Sounds good, Nanuet," she says sincerely, and follows him to the table. Nanuet asks for a bottle of whiskey and a glass of sasperilla for Nakomo and leads Al to the table. Minerva looks up inquiringly as they approach the table. Al, this is Minerva. And this here is my cousin, Nakomo. "Hola, Al. it is nice to meet you." Minerva says sincerely.

"Likewise," says Al, shaking Minerva's hand. She has a man's handshake; and she drinks like a man, knocking back a shot of whiskey in two gulps. "Nanuet says you're a priestess," she says to Minerva, by way of making conversation.

Minerva drinks down her whiskey as well and also notes Al's bed-raggled look. "It would appear that you have just arrived in town, senorita. Let us order a meal. You must be hungry and I am sure that Nakomo and Nanuet must be starving. She motions for a server to come and take their order. "Si, I am a priestess. I am rather new to Promise City though. Have you been here before? "

Al takes a breath and lays her hat on the table. "Yeah, I was here a few months back. Arrived the same week as Nanuet, I recall. And lit out a few hours later," she adds with a wry smile.
She wipes her face with her hand. Minerva's right: she's been riding hard a long time, and she's a mess. "How about you? Where do you come from?"

Minerva looks at her with a puzzled expression and chuckles. "You have only known Nanuet for a few hours? I have been in Promise City for about 3 months now. I hail from Spain and where do you hail from Al? Do you plan on staying long?" Al replies, "I'm, uh..." she hesitates. "I'm from right here, Arizona. Not far from Tucson," she says. It almost sounds like she's confessing a dirty secret. "As for how long I'll stay - well, that depends, I guess." She glances around. "I have a cousin in town, his name's Job. I'm sort of hoping he'll put me up a while."

"Job Cain is your cousin? I am guessing that he will be in soon." Minerva takes it upon herself to refill the whiskey glasses. "She spills a bit on the floor for the gods and raises her glass in a salute. "May the gods keep the wolves in the hills." She downs her drink just as the server brings over steaming plates of steak and hot bread and the hungry bunch digs in. She looks over at Al. "Is he expecting you?"

"Um..." Al looks mightily embarrassed over her handful of steak and bread. "No, he ain't." She pauses for a while, then says softly. "Don't have much reason to believe he'll do anything for me, but the truth is I got nowhere else to go." Minerva replies, “Well I'm sure Job wouldn't turn away family. But being that he is grieving for his friend today, it's hard to tell if he'll even be in tonight. You are welcome to spend the night at my house and figure out your plan tomorrow. You can't miss it, the pretty little yellow cottage beside the church.

Al blinks. "Thank you, ma'am," she says. "I'm... I appreciate it. Really I do." The two women share a smile as they abandon conversation and dig hungrily into their food. They conclude the meal. Nanuet says that he will walk Nakomo back to the house and spend some time with him there. The elf and half-elf depart, leaving the Priestess with Alison.

It is only a few minutes later when Job arrives. He spends a few minutes talking to Thom at the door and then walks over to the piano. He pats Harry Rote on the back and asks "How are you holding up?" Harry looks up and says, "About as well as can be expected. The piano playing makes a good distraction." Job replies, "Well, Stanley has taught you well. I believe I saw Mr. Martin and Miss. Townsend heading this way, so you'll have somebody to play for in a moment or two."

Seeing Job walk in, Al downs her whiskey, grabs her hat and stands up. "'Scuse me, ma'am," she says softly to Minerva, and walks over to her cousin. He sees her mid-sentence and looks at her with undisguised surprise. "Evening, Job," says Al. "How you been?"

Job Kane turns towards her and does a double-take. Then much to her surprise he yells "Al" as he grabs her and gives her a big bear hug and a kiss on the cheek. Several people in the Saloon are also surprised by this, having never seen Job make any type of public display of affection to anybody. This is most surprising to those in the saloon who due to her attire, the fact that her back is to them, and that he called her 'Al' mistakenly think that she is a man.

Stunned, Al returns the hug and the kiss and stands staring at him for a moment. "Been a while," she says, awkwardly. "Good to see you, though." He replies, "This may sound strange, but I've been thinking about you all day. A good friend of mine died and it got me thinking about family. I've been wondering where you were and here you are! Look at you!"

He then does just that and says, "Look at you! You're exhausted! Well, I don't just work her anymore, I now own the place. Come on upstairs, I'll set you up in a room and you can rest. We can talk later."

Chester and Clarisse enter the Lucky Lady. Thom says, "Hey Chester. Hey Clarisse." She replies, "How are you Thom?" The big man says, "Good. Good. Lots of people in tonight." Chester says, "The people love you. And why not? Have a good show." He gives her big kiss. She goes backstage to get ready.
Chester goes to the bar. "Evening, Job. Who's your friend?"

Job says, "Chester, this is my cousin Alision! The one that you and Nanuet headed off to find in Galeyville two months back! She just got into town and is beat so I told her she can go take a nap upstairs." He then notices Clarisse heading towards the stage and says, "Oh, excuse me." "So this is Allison." He tips his hat. "Nice to meet you, miss. Glad to see you made it here OK. Don't let me keep you."

Job walks over to Clarisse and softly says, "Harry's taking this real hard. Do what you can onstage to put him in a better mood. Once I get my cousin settled in I'll go talk to Al and Pierre about minimizing your time over at their place tonight, I think they'll understand." Clarisse nods. "Alright, Mr. Kane. I'll do my best. A lot of us are taking his passing hard." She changes into her singing clothes and takes the stage. Clarisse starts off with some lighter songs trying to raise everyone's spirits.

Minerva sits quietly sipping her whiskey and watching the scene unfold. A warm feeling of wellbeing comes over her. "It seems to be the week for family visits.", she chuckles to herself. She sighs and her smile falters as her wanders to the little blond boy who has just lost his uncle. Young Burt Hoover looks up at the Priestess and gives her a half smile as she takes a seat opposite him.

She says, "Hola, Senor Burt. Would you mind if I keep you company for a while? "She motions for the server to bring him a sarsaparilla. "I was going to introduce you to Sr. Nanuet's cousin but they left a bit early. Perhaps tomorrow you can come by the house and meet him and Luna. "

He says, "I don't know if I can. Mr. Kilgore is leaving some time tomorrow on a stagecoach heading east to Texas. I think that he is planning for me to go with him....but I really don't want to. He's a nice enough man, but he hadn't planned to bring me originally and I think that I will just be in his way."

Chester makes his way to Minerva's table. "Evening Minerva. How've you been? I heard you're taking care of Nanuet's cousin. He should keep a low profile for a couple days. Adair's boys are looking for an excuse to lynch some Indians." "Hola, Deputy Martin,"She stands and hugs him. "Si, I had brought him around earlier. I was hoping to introduce him to some of our friends so they could keep an eye on him. He is going to be with me for a while. Have you met Sr. Burt here?" Chester hugs her back warmly.

He says to Bert, "Nice to meet you son. What brings you here to Promise City? Visiting relatives?" Minerva blushes slightly. "Um Chester, This is Burt Hoover." Nile's nephew." Chester does a double-take. "Oh. I'm really sorry about your uncle. He was a brave man. He helped protect some Indians against folks who wanted to kill them. He was my friend and a friend to a lot of people in town."

"I think that Burt is a lot like his Uncle. He is a very brave boy to come all this way. He says that He is to leave on the coach tomorrow to go to Texas, but he does not wish to go. I wonder if there is some way that we could arrange for him to stay for a while." The boy apprehensively replies, "Could you?

Chester asks, "Why don't you want to go? I've heard Texas isn't that bad. Lots of wide-open spaces. I guess you have family there?" Burt says, “Mr. Kilgore says that once he finishes his errand in El Paso he would bring me back home, but that wouldn't work well. My other Uncle in Iowa reluctantly agreed to watch my younger sister for the summer but didn't even want to do that. I don't know how he and my Aunt would react to having me dumped on them too."

Minerva asks, "What would you do if you stayed in Promise City, Senor Burt? Do not get too excited yet. Although I am sure that you can pull your weight in chores, I am not sure who we could ask to look after you on such short notice.” Burt replies, "I don't know, but I am tired of traveling. My Uncle left me this building, why can't I stay here?"

She replies, "This is an untamed town, Sr. Burt. It is not safe for you to just stay without someone to look after you. She turns to Chester. "What about Clarisse? She would make a fine nanny." On the subject of Clarisse, she and Harry are busy filling the Lucky Lady with lively tunes. Harry is finally beginning to cheer himself up. Chester replies, ""I'd have to ask her. It's a big responsibility taking care of a child. I'm also not sure a saloon is the place for a young man like yourself. Even if you stayed here, who'd look out for you? Our friend, Mrs. Kale is opening a school. Maybe she knows someone."

Burt gestures to the young man at the piano and says "Couldn't I stay with him? He told Mr. Kilgore that he would watch me for a few hours tonight. That is why I was sitting at the table closest to the piano." Chester says, "You'd have to ask him. But, Niles and him were close. Maybe he wants to help his partner's nephew."

Job Kane returns from his quick trip over to the Comique. Catching the tail end of the conversation he says, "You're talking about young Mr. Hoover? I was speaking to Mr. Kilgore earlier today. They are both staying at the Comstock House tonight and will be leaving tomorrow. Kilgore had some business to take care of tonight here in town so he asked me and Harry to keep an eye on him. Why? What's the problem?" Minerva says, "Burt does not want to go with Sr. Kilgore. He wants to stay here....with Harry." she says gesturing toward the piano.