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<blockquote data-quote="orchid blossom" data-source="post: 2819570" data-attributes="member: 12815"><p>Maddie went and stood in the open doorway so she could still be seen by O'Neill, but she could also talk to Ruby. "Nice night," she said quietly.</p><p></p><p>Ruby snaps out of her thoughts. "Yes, I can actually see some stars tonight. Although the air still seems very heavy." She looks at Kate, "I see you found a handsome man to spend the night with," Ruby smiles.</p><p></p><p>"Very handsome. He'll be fun to spend the evening with; he's very charming. We're going to have music for dancing, if you like to dance."</p><p></p><p>"Yes, I've seen Mr. O'Neil's charm-iness up close and personal. I'm sure you'll have a wonderful time. And I do love to dance, most especially if I can drag my husband away from the cards to dance with me." Ruby smiles at how easily she could refer to Jake as her husband and goosebumps runs up her arms as she shivers. Shaking the thought from her mind she looks back up to the stars. "It's strange," she says dreamily, "It's very dark here. Last night I couldn't see them at all. I love the stars."</p><p></p><p>As Ruby and Kate stand on the porch a figure approaches out of the darkness. As she appears they can tell that it is a female figure wearing a dress. A voice calls out "I thought I might find you here Mrs. Jacobs." Colleen says with a smile in her voice. "Nice night isn't it?"</p><p></p><p>Ruby drags her eyes from the sky to Colleen. "Oh yes, very nice night." She returns the smile. "How are you feeling tonight?"</p><p></p><p>"Quite well thank you, but I heard there was no business here tonight. Figured I might try to lure one of these drunks over to the Gordon tonight. Four bucks is a little steep though so I doubt I'll get too far." </p><p></p><p>Colleen makes her way past the ladies and Thom, giving the man a pinch on the cheek as she walks by. Her hips begin to sway their suggestive sway as soon as she enters the saloon.</p><p></p><p>Maddie stayed by the door and kept her ears open, but turned back so she was looking into the room toward Jacky.</p><p></p><p>"Colleen?" Ruby calls after her. She keeps her arms wrapped around the railing for support as she strains her neck. "Why did you think I would be here tonight?"</p><p></p><p>Colleen turns around and say "Just seemed like you weren't the kind of woman to stay inside a hotel room all night, even if the only place in town looks like this one" she turns back around and starts approaching the men.</p><p></p><p>Ruby watches Kate turn her back and eye Mr. O'Neil. Was she worried that Colleen might snag him? Ruby shrugs and says out loud to no one in particular, "She's right." She turns her gaze back up to the stars as she lets her worries completely slip away.</p><p></p><p>Soon Jacky begins making his way towards "Maddie" as some scratchy sounding music can be heard from the phonograph on the bar. "Not as good as the real thing, but it beats not dancing at all. Care to join me? I do much better with a partner."</p><p></p><p>"You'd look rather silly dancing all alone, I must admit. I would love to dance, and I still find those phonographs just amazing." Maddie put her hand in his and let him lead her out into the space that had been cleared out.</p><p></p><p>"It's been a while, I hope I remember how to do this!" O'Neil says as he grasps Kate's hand and puts the other on his hip. He is a little rusty at first but within a minute or so he is deftly leading Kate across the saloon floor in a lively dance. Soon other couples join them making the makeshift dance area a bit crowded.</p><p></p><p>"You remember very well. Seems we've started a fad." Maddie smiled a sweet, slightly shy smile. "How long do you think you'll be in town? I'm stuck here until the stage comes back, or I can find someone to take me to the next town."</p><p></p><p>"Well I figure I'll be here until I either run out of money or find what I'm looking for," Jacky says. "I happen to have plenty of money at the moment so I am hoping for the later of the two options." </p><p></p><p>Back at the poker game Jake answers Owen Gills question. "Oh, I thought the missus introduced us. Alistair Jacobs, from Denver." Jake nods and smiles. "You would be the first to hear any news here abouts I suppose. Anything happening here about?"</p><p></p><p>"Well, I am not supposed to share the telegraphs, supposed to keep them confidential. But I will say that there is supposed to be someone arriving in town that might be able to help us with what's been going on lately, you know the strange deaths and all. Your deal Mr. Jacobs."</p><p></p><p>Chester pipes up, "Come on you can tell us. I mean, this guy's coming here soon, right. We're going to find out anyway."</p><p></p><p>"Sorry sir, I probably said more than I should have. Especially with strangers around. No offense. Oh, look at that, full house! 6's full of Queens."</p><p></p><p>Chester shrugs, "Suit yourself." He peeks at his hand and tosses the cards on the table. "Damn. A pair of kings."</p><p></p><p>Owen Gills excuses himself from the table "Time for a break boys, one too many beers I think, need to use the outhouse." </p><p></p><p>He gets up and heads for the back door but then just as quickly as he got up he turns around and heads back to the table. "Spoke a bit too soon maybe, looks like trouble is coming."</p><p></p><p>As Owen sits back down, three rough looking men come in the back door. The lead man is a hulking figure, matching Thom for size. He wears a red shirt and a black duster. He needs a shave as the course black hair on his face indicates.</p><p></p><p>He is followed by a young man with blonde hair who would probably be considered handsome by most if it weren't for the sneer on his face. He wears a white duster and white gloves.</p><p></p><p>Lastly is a man who looks like he has been on a two week bender, he is unwashed and unshaved. He appears nervous and has his hand near knife sheath.</p><p></p><p>All three men appear to be drunk by the way they stagger.</p><p></p><p>Chester looks at the others at the table. "Do you know these guys?"</p><p></p><p> "Who are they?" Jake asks.</p><p></p><p>One of the men answers in a low voice, "The big guy in front is Nevada Dan, the one behind him with the white duster is 'Gloves' Williams and that last guy is Eugene Smith, he owns the ranch where they all work."</p><p></p><p>Chester whispers back, "Why are they trouble? 'cause they're drunk?"</p><p></p><p>"Just watch" Chester is told.</p><p></p><p>Jake just watches them out of the corner of his eye, and continues to play cards. He glances at the door and Ruby outside periodically.</p><p></p><p>Minerva has been sitting quietly sipping her drink and watching the action. As the 3 men enter the saloon she sits up straighter and nudges Nanuet. She places her hand on her pistol hidden in the secret pocket of her dress and continues to watch.</p><p></p><p>Nanuet responds to the nudge. He nonchalantly reaches down to check his knife and loosen it in its sheath. He slides his chair back a bit and finishes his drink in a big gulp.</p><p></p><p>O'Neil's head turns towards the back door as the three men come in "So much for a fun night, these three are idiots. Let’s get some air."</p><p></p><p>"Who are they?" she said, looking with wide eyes and taking his arm. "You've seen them before?"</p><p></p><p>"Local yokels. I think one of them owns a farm or something nearby. They come here to cause trouble or at least that is what I've seen of them so far. Ruin my fun."</p><p></p><p>"<em>Our fun</em>," Maddie said. "Are they dangerous or just bothersome?"</p><p></p><p>"Sorry, our fun, that's what I meant. Dangerous or bothersome? My guess is both, but so far I have managed to avoid them for the most part. I bet they give that Indian hell though, seems to me they don't like white folks."</p><p></p><p>"What kind of trouble do they cause?" she asked, moving with him toward the door. "Fights? So what do we do for fun now? This is the only saloon left in town, isn't it?</p><p></p><p>"They don't usually stick around too long. I am sure someone saw them and fetched the sheriff. He doesn't harbor any love for them, last couple of times he handled things pretty well."</p><p></p><p>"The poor Sheriff. As if he didn't have enough troubles."</p><p></p><p>Nevada Dan walks over to the card table and grabs a drink right out of one of the locals hands as he is about to drink. He makes his way towards the dance floor, people parting the way for him. He sees Nanuet and starts heading right towards him.</p><p></p><p>Eugene follows behind Dan and continues to finger his knife while "Gloves" Williams hangs back and rests one hand on his gun, occasionally giving his white duster the once over with his free hand ridding it of imaginary dust particles.</p><p></p><p>Greely calls for Thom and then says "Hey boys, no trouble tonight now. I had enough problems last night. Let's keep it civil."</p><p></p><p>Outwardly Minerva looks relaxed and unconcerned. "Oh, Oh. Looks like trouble" Minerva says under her breath.</p><p></p><p>Jake says, "Good time for a short break." He finishes his drink and pushes his chair back. When he stands he turns and surreptitiously tucks his duster behind his holster. He walks across the room to the bar and takes a view of the room as he does.</p><p></p><p>Ruby enjoys the quiet of the stars peering back at her. She decides it's time for another drink so she wanders back inside and heads to the bar. Oblivious to the drama going on side she leans up against it and waves to Greely. "Mr. Greely, sir, I'd like another whiskey please."</p><p></p><p>"Sure honey, just as soon as I take care of these boys here. They're just ahead of you. So what'll it be boys?" Greely asks.</p><p></p><p>Nevada Dan doesn't turn around but continues to look at Nanuet. "Double whiskey for me and the boys" he slurs, "don't waste the good stuff on us." He then turns to Nanuet and glares. "What are you doing here savage? Don't you know we don't like your kind around here?"</p><p></p><p>Rubys raises an eyebrow but barely looks concerned.</p><p></p><p>Nanuet keeps his simmering anger under control as he looks up at the man. "I'm just here minding my business sir, enjoying a night out with my woman."</p><p></p><p>Nevada Dan gives Minerva a lewd look, undressing her with his eyes. "Savages should mate with their own kind, right boys?" The other two laugh and nod.</p><p></p><p>"You tell 'em Dan!" yells out Williams. "You tell that savage! We don't want his kind here!"</p><p></p><p>Chester sees Nevada Dan making a beeline for Nanuet. He gets up from the table. "Excuse me, I need a drink." He moseys towards the bar.</p><p></p><p>Nanuet stands and blocks the man's view of Minerva. "Well, perhaps you should remember that when choosing a mate for yourself. Now I am here minding my own business and I would suggest you do the same." Nanuet flexes his hand that is closest to his knife but tries to keep a calm look on his face.</p><p></p><p>"Oh really? You're making suggestions now huh? Well I suggest you and me take this outside where I can show you what to do with your suggestion." </p><p></p><p>Greely shakes his head and yells out again "Now Dan, just simmer down. Here have a whiskey on the house. You and your boys come and sit down here at the bar and have a round on the house."</p><p></p><p>Williams yells back at Greely "Shut up old man, we have things under control, just pour the drinks and we'll get 'em when were damn well ready."</p><p></p><p>Eugene continues to finger the knife he has now removed from it's sheath as he scans the room back and forth.</p><p></p><p>"Another one for me," Jake tells Greely and then turns to watch 'Gloves' closely. He looks across to Nanuet and tries to catch his eyes, smile and nod towards the man in the white duster.</p><p></p><p>Standing outside the door, Kate heard the foul words the hooligans were slinging at her friend and bristled. "Who are they to accuse anyone of being savage?" she said quietly to O'Neill. "Seems to me they're the barbarians."</p><p></p><p>"You're too kind" Jacky replied. "If it bothers you I'll see what I can do. So far they've left me out of their little games. Maybe I can talk some sense into them."</p><p></p><p>Maddie considered for a moment. "It does bother me, but I wouldn't want to endanger you. They don't seem like people on whom sense is going to have much effect."</p><p></p><p>"Well I appreciate the concern, and I think you're right on with the sense part. Seem pretty thick to me." Maddie sees O'Neil reach down to his holster as he talks, wiggling the weapon slightly.</p><p></p><p>Chester gets to the other side of the bar so that he and Jake bracket the scene. "Mr. Greely, I want another beer, please." Greely looks over at Chester and raises his hands slightly as if to say "wait".</p><p></p><p>Ruby hears some shouting and turns away from the bar. She calls out, "Hey, can you come and get your drinks please? I can't get the attention of the bartender until you come and get your damn drinks. And I'm thirsty! So stop being rude. Get your drinks before you pick on the savage."</p><p></p><p>Nevada Dan spins around after Ruby's comments. He storms over to her pushing "Gloves" Williams aside on his way. He grabs a drink off the bar and slams it back then gets right in Ruby's face and says "You weren't talking to me were you? Nobody talks to Nevada Dan like that, you hear me?" he then turns and spits on the floor.</p><p></p><p>Chester says under his breath, "Oh, you shouldn't have done that." He flexes his hands in preparation for a bar fight.</p><p></p><p>Ruby doesn't back down but instead makes a face as she wipes some spit off her face. "Yes, I was talking to you. How would you like it if you spent the ENTIRE day dreaming about the whiskey you were going to enjoy that night but someone was keeping you from it? And let me tell you something," she scrunches her nose, "Spitting on the floor like that is just gross. If you would have gotten it my gown or shoe I'd be mighty upset. I don't share spit with strangers."</p><p></p><p>"Now, you want to enjoy some whiskey with me?" Without breaking her gaze on Nevada Dan she waves her hand in the air. "Mr. Greely, make that two whiskeys pronto."</p><p></p><p>Jake doesn't take his eye's off 'Gloves' but says, "I would not mess with her, it can be very dangerous."</p><p></p><p>Dan is obviously just looking for trouble as he disregards Ruby's offer for a drink and Jake's warning. He turns to Eugene Smith who still stands near the back of the room and says "Hey Gene, you hear this little girl backsass me? You believe this?" Dan then turns around looks at Ruby "Nobody talks back to me, you do what you are told woman." He then backhands Ruby across the face and steps away from the bar.</p><p></p><p>Ruby stands there with her mouth hanging open, but only for a second before she returns Dan's slap, but with her fist closed and all her weight behind it.</p><p></p><p>Ruby's fist hits the ruffian square in the jaw. His jaw cracks and his head snaps back and to the side and he staggers backwards. He then rapidly shakes his head back and forth and laughs. He then turns back to Ruby and reaches for her grabbing her and flinging her easily across the saloon crashing into the tables. Nevada Dan then reaches across the bar and snatches the whiskey bottle out of Greely's hand and starts drinking from it. His two partners laugh at the situation.</p><p></p><p>Minerva startles as Ruby, like a rag doll, is effortlessly tossed across the room. She quickly casts protection against evil upon herself and rushes across the room toward the door, gripping the pistol with the magic bullets, still hidden in her skirt.</p><p></p><p>As soon as Kate saw Dan slap Ruby, her hand pulled free of Jacky's and went down the front of her dress to pull the Derringer from her bodice.</p><p></p><p>Jake launches himself at the big man and since he is off balance he is able to tackle him to the ground. He laughs with glee. "Finally a man willing to fight for a woman! He swings wildly at Jake and misses but then scrambles free and begins to stand up.</p><p></p><p>Chester grabs at "Gloves" but the man is too quick and too strong for him. He manages to slip out of the grab and draws and points his gun at Chester. "Don't do anything stupid, this ain't your fight."</p><p></p><p>"Damn. You got me." Chester folds his arms and tries not to look at the others, in case they're dong something. At least Gloves has to pay attention to him, instead of helping Dan out.</p><p></p><p>Eugene Smith just watches, appearing almost as amazed at the others at the spectacle.</p><p></p><p>Jake remembers what Red taught him about bar fighting and attempts to hamstring the man before he can get up.</p><p></p><p>Jake's attempt at preventing the man from standing up is unsuccessful as he clambers to his feet. He grabs at Jake and pulls him to his feet. "Shall we dance?" he says with a sneer.</p><p></p><p>In moments any chance of a clear shot was gone and Jake and Chester jumped into the fray. With Jacky still standing next to her it would be difficult to cast anything. With luck, he would run in and help and she would be free to act.</p><p></p><p>Unfortunately for Kate, Jacky O'Neil believes his place is right next to his date protecting her from any harm that might come her way. He watches the scuffle, wincing and making faces anytime a blow is struck.</p><p></p><p>After Ruby is flung 20 feet across the saloon and crashes into the tables she is momentarily dazed. Luckily she was well on her way to drunk and high and some of the pain is temporarily suppressed. She moans as she rises off the floor, holding her left arm to her chest. Dizzy, it takes a moment for her to rise and get her bearings. Besides the burning on her cheek, the pounding in her head and the throbbing in her arm she feels a warm liquid sensation on her forehead. Reaching up she gingerly touches the spot then stretches out her hand in front of her. Dark red blood drips off her fingers and plops to the floor.</p><p></p><p>Even in her stupor she realizes where Dan is standing and that no mere mortal could launch someone like that across the room. After her fuzzy ah ha moment she wastes no time lifting up her skirt and grabbing her gun off her thigh as she starts walking.</p><p></p><p>She takes some long strides and before she knows it she is standing behind Dan pointing her gun at his head. "You should have had the drink Dan... Now let go of my husband before I blow your brains out all over him."</p><p></p><p>Dan looks at Ruby and laughs. "And you should have stayed on the floor!" he says. He looks her right in the eyes and Ruby can feel her will falter. She lowers the gun and says "Please, don't hurt him" in a weak voice.</p><p></p><p>Meanwhile, Jake attempts to flip out of his hold pushing off his chest but he finds the man's grip is inhumanly strong. He does his best but cannot find success. </p><p></p><p>Dan then drags Jake closer to the door saying "Now, let's take this outside!"</p><p></p><p>Jake struggles to reach a vial of holy water in his shirt pocket and then spill it on Dan's hand. Jake says, "I think someone needs to cool off."</p><p></p><p>A sudden rush of emotion fills Ruby as she is dragged back to the spot Colin Turner had brought her before. Tears start welling in her eyes as she looks on helplessly, Jake being dragged out towards the street. The crowd all stood, enthralled and terrified of the action going on in the saloon.</p><p></p><p>Ruby runs over to the big guy Thom and grabs his arm. With tears streaming down her face she pleads, "T-thom, p-please help him. Please. D-don't let him get hurt."</p><p></p><p>Since the man has Jake by the shirt he is able to reach the vial and flick the stopper off and splash some of the liquid on the man's hand. </p><p></p><p>Nevada Dan howls in pain as his skin begins burns where the water has come in contact with it. He releases his grip on Jake for a moment as he is shocked by the pain. </p><p></p><p>"Gloves" Williams turns his attentions towards Dan, Jake and Ruby when he hears the scream. Eugene Smith takes a pair of steps towards their direction as well the knife now held defiantly out in front of him.</p><p></p><p>Thom, now brandishing a 3 foot long piece of 2 by 4 makes his way towards the fray and bellows "Don't hurt pretty Constance or her friends!" Oddly though he stops almost in mid stride and stands complacent in the middle of the floor, halway between the doorway and the bar. Thom looks down at Ruby the piece of lumber now hanging limply by his side. He looks at her sadly but does not react other than to change his expression from anger to sadness.</p><p></p><p>Minerva races to the door and blocks the exit to the saloon. She raises her arms, revealing her holy symbol and with the the wrath of her goddess Minerva shining in her eyes yells. "Begone foul one!"</p><p></p><p>Dan winces at the sight of the holy symbol in Minerva's hand and turns his head away from it. However it is only momentary and he soon regains his composure. He turns back towards Minerva his eyes now aglow as if his soul was burning, fangs now protruding where benign teeth were only moments before.</p><p></p><p>Once Nanuet sees that "Gloves" attention has been distracted away from Chester he takes his knife and throws it at the man's back. The blade strikes squarely but somehow it is turned aside and falls harmlessly to the ground.</p><p></p><p>Jake shakes himself free and steps back five feet from Nevada Dan. While stepping back he is cross drawing his long barrelled Colt and saying loudly, "Something wrong with water blessed by the gods, vampire?" Jake fires one incendiary round at the large man's chest from point blank range.</p><p></p><p>Minerva is shaken by the ineffectivness of her prayers. "<em>Once again the gods have failed to heed my call to destroy evil.</em>" She quickly scrambles out of range and pulls out a vial of holy water when Jake draws his weapon.</p><p></p><p>Holding her breath and sobbing Ruby watches helplessly as Jake is being dragged out. But she takes a tiny breath in as Jake breaks free and pulls his gun. She quickly prays to the goddess Aphrodite to watch over her lover and best friend, especially because she can't. She remembers what Jake said to her back in Promise City, about needing her help.</p><p></p><p>Still holding her arm, battered and bruised, she turns her attentions to Eugene Smith, refusing to look him in the eyes but otherwise keeping close attention on him. With tears still running down her bruised cheek she raises her gun at him and says definately, "Stay where you are."</p><p></p><p>Jake fires the fiery ammunition directly at the creature. He is instantaneously engulfed in flames. He screams and flails for a few moments before the now well known cloud of gas takes his place. The cloud of gas floats out the doorway into the night.</p><p></p><p>Almost simultaneously another gunshot can be heard, this one coming from outside. Kate and Jacky O'Neil turn to see Sheriff Wilson and a stranger wearing a full-length black robe with a large silver holy symbol around his neck. There is a peacemaker strapped to one hip and a hammer and mallet strapped to the other. </p><p></p><p>Sheriff Wilson was the source of the gunfire as he as fired a shot straight up into the air before entering the saloon. He makes his way inside the door way with the newcomer right behind him. "Alright, I've had enough of you roughnecks causing trouble in my town. I'm taking you all in this time, I've had enough!"</p><p></p><p>Eugene Smith gives a sneer to Ruby before he follows his fellow blood sucker in turning to gaseous form and retreating. "Gloves" Williams is quick to do the same.</p><p></p><p>After the vampires turn to gas Ruby stands for a moment, stunned at the events. With a trembling hand she reaches out for her whiskey, still sitting on the bar, and drinks it quickly down. Then she runs into Jake's arms, sobbing, burying her bruised face in his shoulder.</p><p></p><p>* * * * * *</p><p></p><p>Minerva looks around the room to verify that everyone is o.k. and then with shaky knees, lowers herself onto the nearest chair. She spots a drink sitting on the table beside her and without thinking pick it up and downs it in one gulp. </p><p></p><p>Jake manages to holster his weapon before Ruby attaches herself to him. He holds her tight and mutters, "Mierda," while still glancing around the room and back at the sherriff. "I'm glad you showed up, though I will say a few minutes earlier would have been better." </p><p></p><p>Sheriff Wilson nods to Jake. "Got here as fast as I heard the news. Old Ned Rooster saw those troublemakers riding in to town. He knew they would be up to no good, been making problems for me for a month now. Ned came and fetched me and I figured this would be the first place to look, glad I did. Everybody OK?" </p><p></p><p>Ruby lifts up her head and touches her forehead, a bit of fresh blood on her fingertips. "Uh, I hit my head on those tables back there, I'm, uh, a little dizzy. Plus I think I might have broken my arm." As soon as she tries to flex her fingers she grimaces, so keeps it still. She gently touches her face, it still smarting from the powerful slap but doesn't comment about it. </p><p></p><p>"I think I need a lot more drinks, that'll help." She is quiet for a minute then says, "I was right earlier, about them. You have monsters here." </p><p> </p><p>Chester draws his guns when "Gloves" turns his back on him. "What in Hades? More of these things?" Before he can fire, the sheriff enters Greely's. He holsters his weapons and rushes to Ruby and Jake. "Jake, Ruby are you OK? Looks like Turner isn't the only one we have to worry about." </p><p></p><p>Ruby puts on a brave face, "I think I'm a bit hurt but I'll be alright." Then she shudders, "And I think you're right about having more troubles then we already do. Are you alright? And where is K..." Ruby stops herself short as she looks around but says no more. </p><p></p><p>"That's good. I'm fine. "Gloves" pulled a gun on me, but the sheriff showed up quick. I saw Maddie in the far corner of the room." Chester looks around the bar for her. "I reckon these blood monsters aren't much of a secret anymore." </p><p></p><p>Ruby looks to the Sheriff but eyes the stranger, "Who's this guy you have with you?" </p><p></p><p>Jake lets the others talk while trying to get Nanuet or Minerva to come over. 'Ruby is hurt', he mouths soundlessly at the first one to look his way. </p><p></p><p>Minerva notices Jake motioning to her. She taps Nanuet on the arm and nods towards Jake. "I think Ruby is hurt." The two clerics go over and Minerva bends over Ruby to examine her injuries. She places her hand on Ruby's arm and prays silently for a moment. "There. Does that feel any better?" she says softly to Ruby. </p><p></p><p>Ruby tentatively flexes her fingers and notices an improvement. "Yes, it feels a bit better, thank you Minerva." Her face still smarted and Ruby knew well enough by now that cure spells healed the damage but not the bruises, and she could only imagine just how bruised she would get. </p><p></p><p>Minerva picks up Ruby's drink. "I think you may have the right idea here," she says and takes a long sip, draining the glass almost completely. She shudders, "This doesn't taste right. Must be bad whiskey. Either that or all this evil just leaves a bad taste in my mouth." Before Ruby can respond she takes the glass to the bar and instructs the barkeep, "Please dispose of this and prepare us two fresh ones from a different bottle. I believe that your whiskey has gone bad." </p><p></p><p>Ruby's eyes widen slightly as she silently watches Minerva drink her whiskey down. She had gotten a couple of drops of laudanum into it while no one was watching and now the priestess was going to get a taste of a new kind of medicine. But Ruby was really too upset, too scared, too hurt, and still a bit too influenced herself to really be able to process what was happening. She gives Minerva a half hearted smile. "Yes, must be something wrong with the whiskey, although I didn't notice anything myself," she lies. </p><p></p><p>Greely takes the glass from Minerva with a puzzled look on his face. "Bad whiskey, I'm not sure I believe that." He puts the glass up to his nose and inhales deeply. "Nothing wrong with the whiskey, someone's doctoring their drinks is all. I'll be glad to get you a couple of fresh ones though." </p><p></p><p>"Minerva looks momentarily panicked. "Doctored? What do you mean doctored? With what?" </p><p></p><p>"Well I can't be positive, but if I had to guess I would say it is probably laudanum. Somebody must have a headache or something." He opens a new whiskey bottle and pours Minerva two generous glasses. "On the house." he says as he slides them over. "Be right back." </p><p></p><p>Maddie's eyes were open wide as she shivered outside the saloon. Still, Katherine's instincts were saying this masquerade had gone on long enough. She was needed now, Maddie was a distraction. "I....I want to go back to the hotel, please," she said to Jacky. "I'm sorry. I don't feel like having fun anymore." </p><p></p><p>"I quite understand. That was some scene back there. Let me walk you back" Jacky offers. </p><p></p><p>"Thank you." Maddie took his arm and wasted no time in getting back to the hotel. "I'm sure you want to go back," she said when they arrived. "It's sure to quiet down soon, and you still have most of your day. I'll be fine now. Thank you, Jacky," she said with the brightest smile she could muster. </p><p></p><p>Jacky nods his head and gives a wide smile in return. "Well if you're still around for a few days perhaps we could give it another try. I was starting to enjoy myself. Have a good night Maddie, I'm sure I'll see you around." </p><p></p><p>O'Neil then turns and leaves, apparently headed back to the saloon. </p><p></p><p>Maddie stayed outside watching O'Neill until he was out of sight. She then stepped inside the hotel lobby and checked to see if it was deserted. Making the change to Kate would need to be done with good timing. And maybe an illusion or two. But first she needed O'Neill to believe she had gone to her room, and then to get back out as Kate, unseen. </p><p></p><p>Inside Greely's saloon the newcomer shuffles his way past the sheriff and introduces himself. "Name's Nolan Edwards. Looks like you folks handled yourselves pretty well here, might be able to use your help. Hunting these things down is a dangerous game though, have to know what you're doing." </p><p></p><p>The man looks to be in his 60's but is fit as a fiddle. He talks with a southwestern accent and speaks loudly and clearly. </p><p></p><p>Ruby stretches out her uninjured hand and starts introducing herself but as soon as he mentions needing their help she pulls her hand back. Handled ourselves well? I just got beat up! I’m not sure we DID handle ourselves well here Mr. Edwards. And I for one do not look forward to doing it again.” She immediately withdraws from the conversation and heads outside, back to looking at her stars. She leans up against the wall of the saloon and tries to keep her tears in, the ones that she was so sure this morning were gone for good. </p><p></p><p>Nolan Edwards begins to speak in an even, soothing voice, but Ruby is already gone. He realizes her state of mind and since she is a stranger to him he decides to let her go. "Well Sheriff, you got the right man. I'll set to it first thing in the morning. I think I'll head to the hotel and settle in, get started first thing tomorrow." </p><p></p><p>Sheriff Wilson who looks exhausted just nods. He heads to the bar and waits for Greely to return so that he can get served. </p><p></p><p>Once things have settled down a bit several of the patrons leave for the evening mumbling about checking on things and getting an early start for the next day. </p><p></p><p>Greely tells Thom to start cleaning up and putting the furniture back where it is supposed to be. He heads outside to where Ruby is standing. </p><p></p><p>"Sorry about that ma'am are you OK? I'm not sure what has gotten into those boys lately. They used to be customers of Thom's and lately they've been around here. At first they were fine, but now they seem to have gone out of their minds. Should I go fetch the doctor for you?" </p><p></p><p>Ruby wipes her eyes and stands up straighter when the man walks outside. "Oh, Mr. Greely, you startled me for a moment. It's alright, it's not your fault." Ruby is quiet for a moment. "Yes, I would like the doctor, perhaps he can meet me over at my room, I'm going back there soon." She is quiet again then her brows furrow. "What do you mean customers of Thom's?" </p><p></p><p>"Thom used to own a saloon about 2 blocks from here. Couldn't run the place after his accident so I hired him on, you know, to help out around here. I'll fetch the doc for you. Let me know if there is anything I can do to help you out." </p><p></p><p>"Oh he did?" Ruby shakes her head. "Poor Thom. He seems so nice, that's such a shame. As for the men, they've obviously become monsters. Hopefully this new guy the sheriff got can help you." She looks back up into the sky. "Thanks Mr. Greely, just the doctor will do." </p><p></p><p>"You can just call me Greely, everybody else does. Again, I'm sorry, hopefully they won't be coming back anytime soon. I guess I best be getting back inside. I wouldn't stay out here alone if I were you Mrs. Jacobs." </p><p></p><p>"I'm only two steps away from the door. But thank you." </p><p></p><p>She watches Greely return to the saloon and falls back against the wall. She rubs her head, some dried blood flaking under her fingers as she shudders. Overcome with emotions Ruby suddenly feels exhausted and longs for her bed.</p><p></p><p>"Damn it Ruby!" Minerva says scanning the room, for the red headed she devil, but Ruby has already left. "Laudanum." she mutters. She spies Nanuet across the room and brings the drinks over to him and hands him one. "Ummm, Have you seen Ruby anywhere?" </p><p></p><p>"I think she might have gone outside, I thought I saw her go out the front door. Might be best to just let her be though. I think that monster might have controlled her actions again. She just let him go, never took the shot, that is not like her. She probably just wants to be left alone."</p><p></p><p>"Yes, Poor Ruby. She says not sounding very sympathetic. It's been a tough night for everyone now hasn't it? I need to talk to her and find out what she's been putting in the whiskey."</p><p></p><p>Nanuet looks puzzled. "Putting in the whiskey? I don't understand. What would she be putting in her whiskey?"</p><p></p><p>"Laudanum. She's drinking laudanum, and I need to know how much she put in the glass, because I just drank the whole damn thing." She giggles.</p><p></p><p>"Laud-ah-numb?" Nanuet says stumbling over the words. "I don't know what that is, but uh... are you OK?"</p><p></p><p>Nanuet stands up and begins his own search for Ruby. He spies Jake and heads over to him dragging Minerva with him. "Are you OK Jake? Is Ruby OK? Do you know where she went?"</p><p></p><p>Minerva follows along behind Nanuet. "Ya, Mr. Cookie. Where's that she devil of yours." Minerva laughs again.</p><p></p><p>Jake could be the center of attention when he needed to be, but unlike Ruby he also could disappear in plain sight. He needed a moment to think, and just blended in saying nothing and listening to the conversations going on around him. <em>Was I the only one who saw three men turn into wisps of vapor right before our eyes?</em></p><p></p><p>Jake blinks a moment and then focuses on Nanuet's face. "On the porch, she is on the porch." He raises his eyebrows and looks oddly at Minerva and then back to Nanuet questioningly.</p><p></p><p>Minerva now thinks that the whole situation is hysterical and just continues to laugh.</p><p></p><p>"I think she might be putting something in her drink. Minerva drank from her glass and says that she is putting Laudanum in her whiskey whatever that is." Nanuet then points to Minerva and says "And now she's acting a little off center. I wanted to check with Ruby and see if I can figure out what is going on."</p><p></p><p>"No, never mind. I'm fine now!" Minerva says grinning widely. "As a matter of fact I feel GREAT!" she spins and stumbles into Nanuet, giggling.</p><p></p><p>"I am as blind as an old mole at high noon," Jake says shaking his head. "Flowers my indian friend, more accurately poppies. Makes you feel good, a little too good. Similar to what they smoke over a Wong's back in town."</p><p></p><p>Kate returned to the saloon to find Ruby sitting on the porch. "You never change, do you honey? Always outside looking at the stars," she smiled.</p><p></p><p>Ruby pulls her knees to her chest and smiles up at Kate. She doesn't think twice about the fact that Kate is Kate and not Maddie. "I guess not," she says softly, "I really like the stars. And Jake does too, which makes it even better. At least I think he does." Ruby glances down at her bruised wrist but doesn't say anything else.</p><p></p><p>Kate bent down and lifted up Ruby's wrist. "When we go to that hotel there, I'll put something on that wrist to help keep the bruising down." She leaned down and kissed her friend's forehead. "Jake loves the stars so much he found the only one that lives on earth to love. How about we go inside and surprise the others?"</p><p></p><p>Ruby fought even harder to hold back her tears. "That was really nice Kate, what you said about Jake. I'm really glad you're here. But please go inside, I'd rather be alone for a few minutes. I'm sure you saw what happened."</p><p></p><p>"I did," she whispered. "It's why I'm here." In a normal tone of voice she said, "I understand, just make sure you sit so we can see you through the doorway, alright?"</p><p></p><p>"I'll stay right here Kate, I promise."</p><p></p><p>Kate squeezed Ruby's shoulder and went inside the saloon. It was rather a relief when not one male head turned to take any special notice of her. She looked around the room and spotted Nanuet, Minerva, and Jake and headed over. "How typical," she said with a smile. "I can't leave you alone for a moment, can I?"</p><p></p><p>Jake nods and says, "I am glad you were able to catch up with us Katherine."</p><p></p><p>She leaned down and kissed Jake's cheek. "I thought you might need me. And Constance might too."</p><p></p><p>"HEY KATIE! " Minerva says slapping Katherine on the back.</p><p></p><p>Kate immediately stiffened. "Don't call me that, Miss Florencia. Ever."</p><p></p><p>She turned to Jake and said, "I'm not sure when your lady started this new habit. But it might not be too late to break it without the usual difficulties."</p><p></p><p>"You know Katherine," she giggles. "You should loosen those corset strings of yours a notch or two."</p><p></p><p>Jake sighs. At a different time this would be funny. "I need to talk to, ah, my wife for a minute. I would like to know what Nolan can tell us, but I think I need to check outside first. Perhaps you three should speak to him and I will join you in a few minutes." Jake then looks at Nanuet and shrugs, "Or maybe two of you."</p><p></p><p>"There was only one person who ever called me by that name, madam. As you are not he, I'd appreciate it if you kept your opinions on my corset to yourself." Kate turned to Nanuet and asked, "Who is Nolan?"</p><p></p><p>"I apologize if I have offended you. Madam." Minerva says with a low curtsy trying to keep a straight face." But may I suggest that perhaps if you allowed someone to loosen that corset for you, you would find it easier to... well breathe."</p><p></p><p>"I will accept your apology when you are sober and actually mean it, Priestess."</p><p></p><p>Nanuet steps up beside Minerva trying to break the conversation between her and Kate. "I believe Nolan is the man the town sheriff had sent for to help with the little problem they've been having around here. Seems pretty cocky to me. Haven't met the guy yet though so I have to give him a fair shake before I make any judgement."</p><p></p><p>Kate nodded. "I think a man would have to be confident to make his living as a monster slayer. Is he here now?"</p><p></p><p>"I was just trying to be helpful..." Minerva smirks. "And I will have you know that I am not drunk..I am.." She grabs Nanuet’s arm and looks up at him. "Nanuet what am I?" she giggles. "Well whatever I am it's not so bad. Talk to Ruby maybe she'll give you some too."</p><p></p><p>"I'd prefer not, thank you. I'm familiar with it," Kate said flatly.</p><p></p><p>"Si, I was going to kill her, but I feel so damn good now. It would spoil the mood. I'll kill her tomorrow." She giggles. I think I have to go now though," she turns to Nanuet. "Por favor, Mi Amor. Take me home."</p><p></p><p>Chester comes up to the group. "No, you just missed him, Kate. He went to his hotel. I reckon you saw those three troublemakers turn into steam, right? I wouldn't be surprised if they were more of those vampires. Things are getting worse not better. Speaking of which, what's gotten into Minerva? She's acting crazy."</p><p></p><p>"Chester," Kate said warmly and gave him a quick hug. When she was close she whispered in his ear, "Yes I saw."</p><p></p><p>Chester returns the hug, with a bit of surprise. He whispers back, "Then we've got much more problems than just Turner."</p><p></p><p>She let go and said in a more normal tone of voice. "Miss Florencia has accidentally taken some Laudanum, which is affecting her very oddly. Most of the time people become very relaxed when they take it. But I suppose she didn't get much, and combined with alcohol it might have just relaxed her inhibitions a bit."</p><p></p><p>"Why would someone do that? Isn't that stuff meant for headaches? It doesn't make much sense. Uh-oh, here she comes. With these new monsters around, we need to take more care."</p><p></p><p>"Ruby's been taking it since asked her to drink less. I wouldn't worry about the Priestess, she knows it's a bad idea. I already talked to Ruby about it, but it seems she didn't listen."</p><p></p><p>Nanuet is pulling Minerva toward the door when Chester arrives. "Well hello there Mr. Cheshire" she giggles. "I mean Chester. You sure were quick on your feet tonight, Deputy. Just like a cat! "I know! I shall call you Cheshire Cat." Like the cat in the story." She puts her arm around him in a comradely gesture and gives him a wide Cheshire cat grin. "Have you read the book? It's a wonderful book! I have read it many, many times." She leans in and whispers loudly, "Do you think he could have been talking about this town when he wrote it?" and standing straight and striking a pose she gaily recites a section of it's text as Nanuet continues to try and drag her to the door.</p><p></p><p><em>"But I don't want to go among mad people," Alice remarked.</em></p><p><em>"Oh, you can't help that," said the Cat: "we're all mad here. I'm mad. You're mad."</em></p><p><em>"How do you know I'm mad?" said Alice.</em></p><p><em>"You must be," said the Cat, "or you wouldn't have come here."</em></p><p></p><p>Minerva bows and continues to giggle as Nanuet finally gets her through the door. The last thing Chester hears is Minerva yelling from the street. "Buenos Noches, Chester Cat! If I were you I would make myself invisible. I think we have fallen down the rabbit hole! Everyone in this town is crazy!"</p><p></p><p>And it seems like the craziest one right now just might be you!" Nanuet says lightheartedly. </p><p></p><p>"I am glad that you have decided now is a good time to go back to the hotel though, that way I can keep my eye on you.” Nanuet attempts to guide Minerva back to the hotel as she animatedly chats to him about whatever pops into her fuzzy brain. "I think that we have fallen down the rabbit hole, Mi Amore. Do you not agree that Chester would make a fine Cheshire cat?... And Ruby and Jake are obviously the queen and knave of Tarts."</p><p>She recites in a sing-song voice as she walks backwards facing Nanuet,</p><p></p><p><em>The Queen of Hearts, she made some tarts,</em></p><p><em>All on a summer day:</em></p><p><em>The Knave of Hearts, he stole those tarts,</em></p><p><em>And took them quite away!</em></p><p></p><p>"Katherine could be the Queen of Hearts. She can be so stuffy sometimes!” She imitates Katherine’s posture, shakes her finger at Nanuet and in a stern voice mimics. “There was only one person who ever called me by that name, madam. As you are not he, I'd appreciate it if you kept your opinions on my corset to yourself…” She changes her stance and says equally sternly. “I will accept your apology when you are sober and actually mean it, Priestess." Minerva raises her finger to the sky and proclaims to the dark night "Off with their heads!" Before she breaks down into another fit of giggles. </p><p></p><p>Kate stood stiffly as the Priestess's voice carried into the saloon. "As I am not needed here, I will go get myself a room at the hotel. Good night. Good night, Chester."</p><p></p><p>She walked softly out of the saloon, past Ruby on the stairs and Jake on the street and into the hotel where she called for the innkeeper to arrange for her lodgings.</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="orchid blossom, post: 2819570, member: 12815"] Maddie went and stood in the open doorway so she could still be seen by O'Neill, but she could also talk to Ruby. "Nice night," she said quietly. Ruby snaps out of her thoughts. "Yes, I can actually see some stars tonight. Although the air still seems very heavy." She looks at Kate, "I see you found a handsome man to spend the night with," Ruby smiles. "Very handsome. He'll be fun to spend the evening with; he's very charming. We're going to have music for dancing, if you like to dance." "Yes, I've seen Mr. O'Neil's charm-iness up close and personal. I'm sure you'll have a wonderful time. And I do love to dance, most especially if I can drag my husband away from the cards to dance with me." Ruby smiles at how easily she could refer to Jake as her husband and goosebumps runs up her arms as she shivers. Shaking the thought from her mind she looks back up to the stars. "It's strange," she says dreamily, "It's very dark here. Last night I couldn't see them at all. I love the stars." As Ruby and Kate stand on the porch a figure approaches out of the darkness. As she appears they can tell that it is a female figure wearing a dress. A voice calls out "I thought I might find you here Mrs. Jacobs." Colleen says with a smile in her voice. "Nice night isn't it?" Ruby drags her eyes from the sky to Colleen. "Oh yes, very nice night." She returns the smile. "How are you feeling tonight?" "Quite well thank you, but I heard there was no business here tonight. Figured I might try to lure one of these drunks over to the Gordon tonight. Four bucks is a little steep though so I doubt I'll get too far." Colleen makes her way past the ladies and Thom, giving the man a pinch on the cheek as she walks by. Her hips begin to sway their suggestive sway as soon as she enters the saloon. Maddie stayed by the door and kept her ears open, but turned back so she was looking into the room toward Jacky. "Colleen?" Ruby calls after her. She keeps her arms wrapped around the railing for support as she strains her neck. "Why did you think I would be here tonight?" Colleen turns around and say "Just seemed like you weren't the kind of woman to stay inside a hotel room all night, even if the only place in town looks like this one" she turns back around and starts approaching the men. Ruby watches Kate turn her back and eye Mr. O'Neil. Was she worried that Colleen might snag him? Ruby shrugs and says out loud to no one in particular, "She's right." She turns her gaze back up to the stars as she lets her worries completely slip away. Soon Jacky begins making his way towards "Maddie" as some scratchy sounding music can be heard from the phonograph on the bar. "Not as good as the real thing, but it beats not dancing at all. Care to join me? I do much better with a partner." "You'd look rather silly dancing all alone, I must admit. I would love to dance, and I still find those phonographs just amazing." Maddie put her hand in his and let him lead her out into the space that had been cleared out. "It's been a while, I hope I remember how to do this!" O'Neil says as he grasps Kate's hand and puts the other on his hip. He is a little rusty at first but within a minute or so he is deftly leading Kate across the saloon floor in a lively dance. Soon other couples join them making the makeshift dance area a bit crowded. "You remember very well. Seems we've started a fad." Maddie smiled a sweet, slightly shy smile. "How long do you think you'll be in town? I'm stuck here until the stage comes back, or I can find someone to take me to the next town." "Well I figure I'll be here until I either run out of money or find what I'm looking for," Jacky says. "I happen to have plenty of money at the moment so I am hoping for the later of the two options." Back at the poker game Jake answers Owen Gills question. "Oh, I thought the missus introduced us. Alistair Jacobs, from Denver." Jake nods and smiles. "You would be the first to hear any news here abouts I suppose. Anything happening here about?" "Well, I am not supposed to share the telegraphs, supposed to keep them confidential. But I will say that there is supposed to be someone arriving in town that might be able to help us with what's been going on lately, you know the strange deaths and all. Your deal Mr. Jacobs." Chester pipes up, "Come on you can tell us. I mean, this guy's coming here soon, right. We're going to find out anyway." "Sorry sir, I probably said more than I should have. Especially with strangers around. No offense. Oh, look at that, full house! 6's full of Queens." Chester shrugs, "Suit yourself." He peeks at his hand and tosses the cards on the table. "Damn. A pair of kings." Owen Gills excuses himself from the table "Time for a break boys, one too many beers I think, need to use the outhouse." He gets up and heads for the back door but then just as quickly as he got up he turns around and heads back to the table. "Spoke a bit too soon maybe, looks like trouble is coming." As Owen sits back down, three rough looking men come in the back door. The lead man is a hulking figure, matching Thom for size. He wears a red shirt and a black duster. He needs a shave as the course black hair on his face indicates. He is followed by a young man with blonde hair who would probably be considered handsome by most if it weren't for the sneer on his face. He wears a white duster and white gloves. Lastly is a man who looks like he has been on a two week bender, he is unwashed and unshaved. He appears nervous and has his hand near knife sheath. All three men appear to be drunk by the way they stagger. Chester looks at the others at the table. "Do you know these guys?" "Who are they?" Jake asks. One of the men answers in a low voice, "The big guy in front is Nevada Dan, the one behind him with the white duster is 'Gloves' Williams and that last guy is Eugene Smith, he owns the ranch where they all work." Chester whispers back, "Why are they trouble? 'cause they're drunk?" "Just watch" Chester is told. Jake just watches them out of the corner of his eye, and continues to play cards. He glances at the door and Ruby outside periodically. Minerva has been sitting quietly sipping her drink and watching the action. As the 3 men enter the saloon she sits up straighter and nudges Nanuet. She places her hand on her pistol hidden in the secret pocket of her dress and continues to watch. Nanuet responds to the nudge. He nonchalantly reaches down to check his knife and loosen it in its sheath. He slides his chair back a bit and finishes his drink in a big gulp. O'Neil's head turns towards the back door as the three men come in "So much for a fun night, these three are idiots. Let’s get some air." "Who are they?" she said, looking with wide eyes and taking his arm. "You've seen them before?" "Local yokels. I think one of them owns a farm or something nearby. They come here to cause trouble or at least that is what I've seen of them so far. Ruin my fun." "[i]Our fun[/i]," Maddie said. "Are they dangerous or just bothersome?" "Sorry, our fun, that's what I meant. Dangerous or bothersome? My guess is both, but so far I have managed to avoid them for the most part. I bet they give that Indian hell though, seems to me they don't like white folks." "What kind of trouble do they cause?" she asked, moving with him toward the door. "Fights? So what do we do for fun now? This is the only saloon left in town, isn't it? "They don't usually stick around too long. I am sure someone saw them and fetched the sheriff. He doesn't harbor any love for them, last couple of times he handled things pretty well." "The poor Sheriff. As if he didn't have enough troubles." Nevada Dan walks over to the card table and grabs a drink right out of one of the locals hands as he is about to drink. He makes his way towards the dance floor, people parting the way for him. He sees Nanuet and starts heading right towards him. Eugene follows behind Dan and continues to finger his knife while "Gloves" Williams hangs back and rests one hand on his gun, occasionally giving his white duster the once over with his free hand ridding it of imaginary dust particles. Greely calls for Thom and then says "Hey boys, no trouble tonight now. I had enough problems last night. Let's keep it civil." Outwardly Minerva looks relaxed and unconcerned. "Oh, Oh. Looks like trouble" Minerva says under her breath. Jake says, "Good time for a short break." He finishes his drink and pushes his chair back. When he stands he turns and surreptitiously tucks his duster behind his holster. He walks across the room to the bar and takes a view of the room as he does. Ruby enjoys the quiet of the stars peering back at her. She decides it's time for another drink so she wanders back inside and heads to the bar. Oblivious to the drama going on side she leans up against it and waves to Greely. "Mr. Greely, sir, I'd like another whiskey please." "Sure honey, just as soon as I take care of these boys here. They're just ahead of you. So what'll it be boys?" Greely asks. Nevada Dan doesn't turn around but continues to look at Nanuet. "Double whiskey for me and the boys" he slurs, "don't waste the good stuff on us." He then turns to Nanuet and glares. "What are you doing here savage? Don't you know we don't like your kind around here?" Rubys raises an eyebrow but barely looks concerned. Nanuet keeps his simmering anger under control as he looks up at the man. "I'm just here minding my business sir, enjoying a night out with my woman." Nevada Dan gives Minerva a lewd look, undressing her with his eyes. "Savages should mate with their own kind, right boys?" The other two laugh and nod. "You tell 'em Dan!" yells out Williams. "You tell that savage! We don't want his kind here!" Chester sees Nevada Dan making a beeline for Nanuet. He gets up from the table. "Excuse me, I need a drink." He moseys towards the bar. Nanuet stands and blocks the man's view of Minerva. "Well, perhaps you should remember that when choosing a mate for yourself. Now I am here minding my own business and I would suggest you do the same." Nanuet flexes his hand that is closest to his knife but tries to keep a calm look on his face. "Oh really? You're making suggestions now huh? Well I suggest you and me take this outside where I can show you what to do with your suggestion." Greely shakes his head and yells out again "Now Dan, just simmer down. Here have a whiskey on the house. You and your boys come and sit down here at the bar and have a round on the house." Williams yells back at Greely "Shut up old man, we have things under control, just pour the drinks and we'll get 'em when were damn well ready." Eugene continues to finger the knife he has now removed from it's sheath as he scans the room back and forth. "Another one for me," Jake tells Greely and then turns to watch 'Gloves' closely. He looks across to Nanuet and tries to catch his eyes, smile and nod towards the man in the white duster. Standing outside the door, Kate heard the foul words the hooligans were slinging at her friend and bristled. "Who are they to accuse anyone of being savage?" she said quietly to O'Neill. "Seems to me they're the barbarians." "You're too kind" Jacky replied. "If it bothers you I'll see what I can do. So far they've left me out of their little games. Maybe I can talk some sense into them." Maddie considered for a moment. "It does bother me, but I wouldn't want to endanger you. They don't seem like people on whom sense is going to have much effect." "Well I appreciate the concern, and I think you're right on with the sense part. Seem pretty thick to me." Maddie sees O'Neil reach down to his holster as he talks, wiggling the weapon slightly. Chester gets to the other side of the bar so that he and Jake bracket the scene. "Mr. Greely, I want another beer, please." Greely looks over at Chester and raises his hands slightly as if to say "wait". Ruby hears some shouting and turns away from the bar. She calls out, "Hey, can you come and get your drinks please? I can't get the attention of the bartender until you come and get your damn drinks. And I'm thirsty! So stop being rude. Get your drinks before you pick on the savage." Nevada Dan spins around after Ruby's comments. He storms over to her pushing "Gloves" Williams aside on his way. He grabs a drink off the bar and slams it back then gets right in Ruby's face and says "You weren't talking to me were you? Nobody talks to Nevada Dan like that, you hear me?" he then turns and spits on the floor. Chester says under his breath, "Oh, you shouldn't have done that." He flexes his hands in preparation for a bar fight. Ruby doesn't back down but instead makes a face as she wipes some spit off her face. "Yes, I was talking to you. How would you like it if you spent the ENTIRE day dreaming about the whiskey you were going to enjoy that night but someone was keeping you from it? And let me tell you something," she scrunches her nose, "Spitting on the floor like that is just gross. If you would have gotten it my gown or shoe I'd be mighty upset. I don't share spit with strangers." "Now, you want to enjoy some whiskey with me?" Without breaking her gaze on Nevada Dan she waves her hand in the air. "Mr. Greely, make that two whiskeys pronto." Jake doesn't take his eye's off 'Gloves' but says, "I would not mess with her, it can be very dangerous." Dan is obviously just looking for trouble as he disregards Ruby's offer for a drink and Jake's warning. He turns to Eugene Smith who still stands near the back of the room and says "Hey Gene, you hear this little girl backsass me? You believe this?" Dan then turns around looks at Ruby "Nobody talks back to me, you do what you are told woman." He then backhands Ruby across the face and steps away from the bar. Ruby stands there with her mouth hanging open, but only for a second before she returns Dan's slap, but with her fist closed and all her weight behind it. Ruby's fist hits the ruffian square in the jaw. His jaw cracks and his head snaps back and to the side and he staggers backwards. He then rapidly shakes his head back and forth and laughs. He then turns back to Ruby and reaches for her grabbing her and flinging her easily across the saloon crashing into the tables. Nevada Dan then reaches across the bar and snatches the whiskey bottle out of Greely's hand and starts drinking from it. His two partners laugh at the situation. Minerva startles as Ruby, like a rag doll, is effortlessly tossed across the room. She quickly casts protection against evil upon herself and rushes across the room toward the door, gripping the pistol with the magic bullets, still hidden in her skirt. As soon as Kate saw Dan slap Ruby, her hand pulled free of Jacky's and went down the front of her dress to pull the Derringer from her bodice. Jake launches himself at the big man and since he is off balance he is able to tackle him to the ground. He laughs with glee. "Finally a man willing to fight for a woman! He swings wildly at Jake and misses but then scrambles free and begins to stand up. Chester grabs at "Gloves" but the man is too quick and too strong for him. He manages to slip out of the grab and draws and points his gun at Chester. "Don't do anything stupid, this ain't your fight." "Damn. You got me." Chester folds his arms and tries not to look at the others, in case they're dong something. At least Gloves has to pay attention to him, instead of helping Dan out. Eugene Smith just watches, appearing almost as amazed at the others at the spectacle. Jake remembers what Red taught him about bar fighting and attempts to hamstring the man before he can get up. Jake's attempt at preventing the man from standing up is unsuccessful as he clambers to his feet. He grabs at Jake and pulls him to his feet. "Shall we dance?" he says with a sneer. In moments any chance of a clear shot was gone and Jake and Chester jumped into the fray. With Jacky still standing next to her it would be difficult to cast anything. With luck, he would run in and help and she would be free to act. Unfortunately for Kate, Jacky O'Neil believes his place is right next to his date protecting her from any harm that might come her way. He watches the scuffle, wincing and making faces anytime a blow is struck. After Ruby is flung 20 feet across the saloon and crashes into the tables she is momentarily dazed. Luckily she was well on her way to drunk and high and some of the pain is temporarily suppressed. She moans as she rises off the floor, holding her left arm to her chest. Dizzy, it takes a moment for her to rise and get her bearings. Besides the burning on her cheek, the pounding in her head and the throbbing in her arm she feels a warm liquid sensation on her forehead. Reaching up she gingerly touches the spot then stretches out her hand in front of her. Dark red blood drips off her fingers and plops to the floor. Even in her stupor she realizes where Dan is standing and that no mere mortal could launch someone like that across the room. After her fuzzy ah ha moment she wastes no time lifting up her skirt and grabbing her gun off her thigh as she starts walking. She takes some long strides and before she knows it she is standing behind Dan pointing her gun at his head. "You should have had the drink Dan... Now let go of my husband before I blow your brains out all over him." Dan looks at Ruby and laughs. "And you should have stayed on the floor!" he says. He looks her right in the eyes and Ruby can feel her will falter. She lowers the gun and says "Please, don't hurt him" in a weak voice. Meanwhile, Jake attempts to flip out of his hold pushing off his chest but he finds the man's grip is inhumanly strong. He does his best but cannot find success. Dan then drags Jake closer to the door saying "Now, let's take this outside!" Jake struggles to reach a vial of holy water in his shirt pocket and then spill it on Dan's hand. Jake says, "I think someone needs to cool off." A sudden rush of emotion fills Ruby as she is dragged back to the spot Colin Turner had brought her before. Tears start welling in her eyes as she looks on helplessly, Jake being dragged out towards the street. The crowd all stood, enthralled and terrified of the action going on in the saloon. Ruby runs over to the big guy Thom and grabs his arm. With tears streaming down her face she pleads, "T-thom, p-please help him. Please. D-don't let him get hurt." Since the man has Jake by the shirt he is able to reach the vial and flick the stopper off and splash some of the liquid on the man's hand. Nevada Dan howls in pain as his skin begins burns where the water has come in contact with it. He releases his grip on Jake for a moment as he is shocked by the pain. "Gloves" Williams turns his attentions towards Dan, Jake and Ruby when he hears the scream. Eugene Smith takes a pair of steps towards their direction as well the knife now held defiantly out in front of him. Thom, now brandishing a 3 foot long piece of 2 by 4 makes his way towards the fray and bellows "Don't hurt pretty Constance or her friends!" Oddly though he stops almost in mid stride and stands complacent in the middle of the floor, halway between the doorway and the bar. Thom looks down at Ruby the piece of lumber now hanging limply by his side. He looks at her sadly but does not react other than to change his expression from anger to sadness. Minerva races to the door and blocks the exit to the saloon. She raises her arms, revealing her holy symbol and with the the wrath of her goddess Minerva shining in her eyes yells. "Begone foul one!" Dan winces at the sight of the holy symbol in Minerva's hand and turns his head away from it. However it is only momentary and he soon regains his composure. He turns back towards Minerva his eyes now aglow as if his soul was burning, fangs now protruding where benign teeth were only moments before. Once Nanuet sees that "Gloves" attention has been distracted away from Chester he takes his knife and throws it at the man's back. The blade strikes squarely but somehow it is turned aside and falls harmlessly to the ground. Jake shakes himself free and steps back five feet from Nevada Dan. While stepping back he is cross drawing his long barrelled Colt and saying loudly, "Something wrong with water blessed by the gods, vampire?" Jake fires one incendiary round at the large man's chest from point blank range. Minerva is shaken by the ineffectivness of her prayers. "[i]Once again the gods have failed to heed my call to destroy evil.[/i]" She quickly scrambles out of range and pulls out a vial of holy water when Jake draws his weapon. Holding her breath and sobbing Ruby watches helplessly as Jake is being dragged out. But she takes a tiny breath in as Jake breaks free and pulls his gun. She quickly prays to the goddess Aphrodite to watch over her lover and best friend, especially because she can't. She remembers what Jake said to her back in Promise City, about needing her help. Still holding her arm, battered and bruised, she turns her attentions to Eugene Smith, refusing to look him in the eyes but otherwise keeping close attention on him. With tears still running down her bruised cheek she raises her gun at him and says definately, "Stay where you are." Jake fires the fiery ammunition directly at the creature. He is instantaneously engulfed in flames. He screams and flails for a few moments before the now well known cloud of gas takes his place. The cloud of gas floats out the doorway into the night. Almost simultaneously another gunshot can be heard, this one coming from outside. Kate and Jacky O'Neil turn to see Sheriff Wilson and a stranger wearing a full-length black robe with a large silver holy symbol around his neck. There is a peacemaker strapped to one hip and a hammer and mallet strapped to the other. Sheriff Wilson was the source of the gunfire as he as fired a shot straight up into the air before entering the saloon. He makes his way inside the door way with the newcomer right behind him. "Alright, I've had enough of you roughnecks causing trouble in my town. I'm taking you all in this time, I've had enough!" Eugene Smith gives a sneer to Ruby before he follows his fellow blood sucker in turning to gaseous form and retreating. "Gloves" Williams is quick to do the same. After the vampires turn to gas Ruby stands for a moment, stunned at the events. With a trembling hand she reaches out for her whiskey, still sitting on the bar, and drinks it quickly down. Then she runs into Jake's arms, sobbing, burying her bruised face in his shoulder. * * * * * * Minerva looks around the room to verify that everyone is o.k. and then with shaky knees, lowers herself onto the nearest chair. She spots a drink sitting on the table beside her and without thinking pick it up and downs it in one gulp. Jake manages to holster his weapon before Ruby attaches herself to him. He holds her tight and mutters, "Mierda," while still glancing around the room and back at the sherriff. "I'm glad you showed up, though I will say a few minutes earlier would have been better." Sheriff Wilson nods to Jake. "Got here as fast as I heard the news. Old Ned Rooster saw those troublemakers riding in to town. He knew they would be up to no good, been making problems for me for a month now. Ned came and fetched me and I figured this would be the first place to look, glad I did. Everybody OK?" Ruby lifts up her head and touches her forehead, a bit of fresh blood on her fingertips. "Uh, I hit my head on those tables back there, I'm, uh, a little dizzy. Plus I think I might have broken my arm." As soon as she tries to flex her fingers she grimaces, so keeps it still. She gently touches her face, it still smarting from the powerful slap but doesn't comment about it. "I think I need a lot more drinks, that'll help." She is quiet for a minute then says, "I was right earlier, about them. You have monsters here." Chester draws his guns when "Gloves" turns his back on him. "What in Hades? More of these things?" Before he can fire, the sheriff enters Greely's. He holsters his weapons and rushes to Ruby and Jake. "Jake, Ruby are you OK? Looks like Turner isn't the only one we have to worry about." Ruby puts on a brave face, "I think I'm a bit hurt but I'll be alright." Then she shudders, "And I think you're right about having more troubles then we already do. Are you alright? And where is K..." Ruby stops herself short as she looks around but says no more. "That's good. I'm fine. "Gloves" pulled a gun on me, but the sheriff showed up quick. I saw Maddie in the far corner of the room." Chester looks around the bar for her. "I reckon these blood monsters aren't much of a secret anymore." Ruby looks to the Sheriff but eyes the stranger, "Who's this guy you have with you?" Jake lets the others talk while trying to get Nanuet or Minerva to come over. 'Ruby is hurt', he mouths soundlessly at the first one to look his way. Minerva notices Jake motioning to her. She taps Nanuet on the arm and nods towards Jake. "I think Ruby is hurt." The two clerics go over and Minerva bends over Ruby to examine her injuries. She places her hand on Ruby's arm and prays silently for a moment. "There. Does that feel any better?" she says softly to Ruby. Ruby tentatively flexes her fingers and notices an improvement. "Yes, it feels a bit better, thank you Minerva." Her face still smarted and Ruby knew well enough by now that cure spells healed the damage but not the bruises, and she could only imagine just how bruised she would get. Minerva picks up Ruby's drink. "I think you may have the right idea here," she says and takes a long sip, draining the glass almost completely. She shudders, "This doesn't taste right. Must be bad whiskey. Either that or all this evil just leaves a bad taste in my mouth." Before Ruby can respond she takes the glass to the bar and instructs the barkeep, "Please dispose of this and prepare us two fresh ones from a different bottle. I believe that your whiskey has gone bad." Ruby's eyes widen slightly as she silently watches Minerva drink her whiskey down. She had gotten a couple of drops of laudanum into it while no one was watching and now the priestess was going to get a taste of a new kind of medicine. But Ruby was really too upset, too scared, too hurt, and still a bit too influenced herself to really be able to process what was happening. She gives Minerva a half hearted smile. "Yes, must be something wrong with the whiskey, although I didn't notice anything myself," she lies. Greely takes the glass from Minerva with a puzzled look on his face. "Bad whiskey, I'm not sure I believe that." He puts the glass up to his nose and inhales deeply. "Nothing wrong with the whiskey, someone's doctoring their drinks is all. I'll be glad to get you a couple of fresh ones though." "Minerva looks momentarily panicked. "Doctored? What do you mean doctored? With what?" "Well I can't be positive, but if I had to guess I would say it is probably laudanum. Somebody must have a headache or something." He opens a new whiskey bottle and pours Minerva two generous glasses. "On the house." he says as he slides them over. "Be right back." Maddie's eyes were open wide as she shivered outside the saloon. Still, Katherine's instincts were saying this masquerade had gone on long enough. She was needed now, Maddie was a distraction. "I....I want to go back to the hotel, please," she said to Jacky. "I'm sorry. I don't feel like having fun anymore." "I quite understand. That was some scene back there. Let me walk you back" Jacky offers. "Thank you." Maddie took his arm and wasted no time in getting back to the hotel. "I'm sure you want to go back," she said when they arrived. "It's sure to quiet down soon, and you still have most of your day. I'll be fine now. Thank you, Jacky," she said with the brightest smile she could muster. Jacky nods his head and gives a wide smile in return. "Well if you're still around for a few days perhaps we could give it another try. I was starting to enjoy myself. Have a good night Maddie, I'm sure I'll see you around." O'Neil then turns and leaves, apparently headed back to the saloon. Maddie stayed outside watching O'Neill until he was out of sight. She then stepped inside the hotel lobby and checked to see if it was deserted. Making the change to Kate would need to be done with good timing. And maybe an illusion or two. But first she needed O'Neill to believe she had gone to her room, and then to get back out as Kate, unseen. Inside Greely's saloon the newcomer shuffles his way past the sheriff and introduces himself. "Name's Nolan Edwards. Looks like you folks handled yourselves pretty well here, might be able to use your help. Hunting these things down is a dangerous game though, have to know what you're doing." The man looks to be in his 60's but is fit as a fiddle. He talks with a southwestern accent and speaks loudly and clearly. Ruby stretches out her uninjured hand and starts introducing herself but as soon as he mentions needing their help she pulls her hand back. Handled ourselves well? I just got beat up! I’m not sure we DID handle ourselves well here Mr. Edwards. And I for one do not look forward to doing it again.” She immediately withdraws from the conversation and heads outside, back to looking at her stars. She leans up against the wall of the saloon and tries to keep her tears in, the ones that she was so sure this morning were gone for good. Nolan Edwards begins to speak in an even, soothing voice, but Ruby is already gone. He realizes her state of mind and since she is a stranger to him he decides to let her go. "Well Sheriff, you got the right man. I'll set to it first thing in the morning. I think I'll head to the hotel and settle in, get started first thing tomorrow." Sheriff Wilson who looks exhausted just nods. He heads to the bar and waits for Greely to return so that he can get served. Once things have settled down a bit several of the patrons leave for the evening mumbling about checking on things and getting an early start for the next day. Greely tells Thom to start cleaning up and putting the furniture back where it is supposed to be. He heads outside to where Ruby is standing. "Sorry about that ma'am are you OK? I'm not sure what has gotten into those boys lately. They used to be customers of Thom's and lately they've been around here. At first they were fine, but now they seem to have gone out of their minds. Should I go fetch the doctor for you?" Ruby wipes her eyes and stands up straighter when the man walks outside. "Oh, Mr. Greely, you startled me for a moment. It's alright, it's not your fault." Ruby is quiet for a moment. "Yes, I would like the doctor, perhaps he can meet me over at my room, I'm going back there soon." She is quiet again then her brows furrow. "What do you mean customers of Thom's?" "Thom used to own a saloon about 2 blocks from here. Couldn't run the place after his accident so I hired him on, you know, to help out around here. I'll fetch the doc for you. Let me know if there is anything I can do to help you out." "Oh he did?" Ruby shakes her head. "Poor Thom. He seems so nice, that's such a shame. As for the men, they've obviously become monsters. Hopefully this new guy the sheriff got can help you." She looks back up into the sky. "Thanks Mr. Greely, just the doctor will do." "You can just call me Greely, everybody else does. Again, I'm sorry, hopefully they won't be coming back anytime soon. I guess I best be getting back inside. I wouldn't stay out here alone if I were you Mrs. Jacobs." "I'm only two steps away from the door. But thank you." She watches Greely return to the saloon and falls back against the wall. She rubs her head, some dried blood flaking under her fingers as she shudders. Overcome with emotions Ruby suddenly feels exhausted and longs for her bed. "Damn it Ruby!" Minerva says scanning the room, for the red headed she devil, but Ruby has already left. "Laudanum." she mutters. She spies Nanuet across the room and brings the drinks over to him and hands him one. "Ummm, Have you seen Ruby anywhere?" "I think she might have gone outside, I thought I saw her go out the front door. Might be best to just let her be though. I think that monster might have controlled her actions again. She just let him go, never took the shot, that is not like her. She probably just wants to be left alone." "Yes, Poor Ruby. She says not sounding very sympathetic. It's been a tough night for everyone now hasn't it? I need to talk to her and find out what she's been putting in the whiskey." Nanuet looks puzzled. "Putting in the whiskey? I don't understand. What would she be putting in her whiskey?" "Laudanum. She's drinking laudanum, and I need to know how much she put in the glass, because I just drank the whole damn thing." She giggles. "Laud-ah-numb?" Nanuet says stumbling over the words. "I don't know what that is, but uh... are you OK?" Nanuet stands up and begins his own search for Ruby. He spies Jake and heads over to him dragging Minerva with him. "Are you OK Jake? Is Ruby OK? Do you know where she went?" Minerva follows along behind Nanuet. "Ya, Mr. Cookie. Where's that she devil of yours." Minerva laughs again. Jake could be the center of attention when he needed to be, but unlike Ruby he also could disappear in plain sight. He needed a moment to think, and just blended in saying nothing and listening to the conversations going on around him. [i]Was I the only one who saw three men turn into wisps of vapor right before our eyes?[/i] Jake blinks a moment and then focuses on Nanuet's face. "On the porch, she is on the porch." He raises his eyebrows and looks oddly at Minerva and then back to Nanuet questioningly. Minerva now thinks that the whole situation is hysterical and just continues to laugh. "I think she might be putting something in her drink. Minerva drank from her glass and says that she is putting Laudanum in her whiskey whatever that is." Nanuet then points to Minerva and says "And now she's acting a little off center. I wanted to check with Ruby and see if I can figure out what is going on." "No, never mind. I'm fine now!" Minerva says grinning widely. "As a matter of fact I feel GREAT!" she spins and stumbles into Nanuet, giggling. "I am as blind as an old mole at high noon," Jake says shaking his head. "Flowers my indian friend, more accurately poppies. Makes you feel good, a little too good. Similar to what they smoke over a Wong's back in town." Kate returned to the saloon to find Ruby sitting on the porch. "You never change, do you honey? Always outside looking at the stars," she smiled. Ruby pulls her knees to her chest and smiles up at Kate. She doesn't think twice about the fact that Kate is Kate and not Maddie. "I guess not," she says softly, "I really like the stars. And Jake does too, which makes it even better. At least I think he does." Ruby glances down at her bruised wrist but doesn't say anything else. Kate bent down and lifted up Ruby's wrist. "When we go to that hotel there, I'll put something on that wrist to help keep the bruising down." She leaned down and kissed her friend's forehead. "Jake loves the stars so much he found the only one that lives on earth to love. How about we go inside and surprise the others?" Ruby fought even harder to hold back her tears. "That was really nice Kate, what you said about Jake. I'm really glad you're here. But please go inside, I'd rather be alone for a few minutes. I'm sure you saw what happened." "I did," she whispered. "It's why I'm here." In a normal tone of voice she said, "I understand, just make sure you sit so we can see you through the doorway, alright?" "I'll stay right here Kate, I promise." Kate squeezed Ruby's shoulder and went inside the saloon. It was rather a relief when not one male head turned to take any special notice of her. She looked around the room and spotted Nanuet, Minerva, and Jake and headed over. "How typical," she said with a smile. "I can't leave you alone for a moment, can I?" Jake nods and says, "I am glad you were able to catch up with us Katherine." She leaned down and kissed Jake's cheek. "I thought you might need me. And Constance might too." "HEY KATIE! " Minerva says slapping Katherine on the back. Kate immediately stiffened. "Don't call me that, Miss Florencia. Ever." She turned to Jake and said, "I'm not sure when your lady started this new habit. But it might not be too late to break it without the usual difficulties." "You know Katherine," she giggles. "You should loosen those corset strings of yours a notch or two." Jake sighs. At a different time this would be funny. "I need to talk to, ah, my wife for a minute. I would like to know what Nolan can tell us, but I think I need to check outside first. Perhaps you three should speak to him and I will join you in a few minutes." Jake then looks at Nanuet and shrugs, "Or maybe two of you." "There was only one person who ever called me by that name, madam. As you are not he, I'd appreciate it if you kept your opinions on my corset to yourself." Kate turned to Nanuet and asked, "Who is Nolan?" "I apologize if I have offended you. Madam." Minerva says with a low curtsy trying to keep a straight face." But may I suggest that perhaps if you allowed someone to loosen that corset for you, you would find it easier to... well breathe." "I will accept your apology when you are sober and actually mean it, Priestess." Nanuet steps up beside Minerva trying to break the conversation between her and Kate. "I believe Nolan is the man the town sheriff had sent for to help with the little problem they've been having around here. Seems pretty cocky to me. Haven't met the guy yet though so I have to give him a fair shake before I make any judgement." Kate nodded. "I think a man would have to be confident to make his living as a monster slayer. Is he here now?" "I was just trying to be helpful..." Minerva smirks. "And I will have you know that I am not drunk..I am.." She grabs Nanuet’s arm and looks up at him. "Nanuet what am I?" she giggles. "Well whatever I am it's not so bad. Talk to Ruby maybe she'll give you some too." "I'd prefer not, thank you. I'm familiar with it," Kate said flatly. "Si, I was going to kill her, but I feel so damn good now. It would spoil the mood. I'll kill her tomorrow." She giggles. I think I have to go now though," she turns to Nanuet. "Por favor, Mi Amor. Take me home." Chester comes up to the group. "No, you just missed him, Kate. He went to his hotel. I reckon you saw those three troublemakers turn into steam, right? I wouldn't be surprised if they were more of those vampires. Things are getting worse not better. Speaking of which, what's gotten into Minerva? She's acting crazy." "Chester," Kate said warmly and gave him a quick hug. When she was close she whispered in his ear, "Yes I saw." Chester returns the hug, with a bit of surprise. He whispers back, "Then we've got much more problems than just Turner." She let go and said in a more normal tone of voice. "Miss Florencia has accidentally taken some Laudanum, which is affecting her very oddly. Most of the time people become very relaxed when they take it. But I suppose she didn't get much, and combined with alcohol it might have just relaxed her inhibitions a bit." "Why would someone do that? Isn't that stuff meant for headaches? It doesn't make much sense. Uh-oh, here she comes. With these new monsters around, we need to take more care." "Ruby's been taking it since asked her to drink less. I wouldn't worry about the Priestess, she knows it's a bad idea. I already talked to Ruby about it, but it seems she didn't listen." Nanuet is pulling Minerva toward the door when Chester arrives. "Well hello there Mr. Cheshire" she giggles. "I mean Chester. You sure were quick on your feet tonight, Deputy. Just like a cat! "I know! I shall call you Cheshire Cat." Like the cat in the story." She puts her arm around him in a comradely gesture and gives him a wide Cheshire cat grin. "Have you read the book? It's a wonderful book! I have read it many, many times." She leans in and whispers loudly, "Do you think he could have been talking about this town when he wrote it?" and standing straight and striking a pose she gaily recites a section of it's text as Nanuet continues to try and drag her to the door. [i]"But I don't want to go among mad people," Alice remarked. "Oh, you can't help that," said the Cat: "we're all mad here. I'm mad. You're mad." "How do you know I'm mad?" said Alice. "You must be," said the Cat, "or you wouldn't have come here."[/i] Minerva bows and continues to giggle as Nanuet finally gets her through the door. The last thing Chester hears is Minerva yelling from the street. "Buenos Noches, Chester Cat! If I were you I would make myself invisible. I think we have fallen down the rabbit hole! Everyone in this town is crazy!" And it seems like the craziest one right now just might be you!" Nanuet says lightheartedly. "I am glad that you have decided now is a good time to go back to the hotel though, that way I can keep my eye on you.” Nanuet attempts to guide Minerva back to the hotel as she animatedly chats to him about whatever pops into her fuzzy brain. "I think that we have fallen down the rabbit hole, Mi Amore. Do you not agree that Chester would make a fine Cheshire cat?... And Ruby and Jake are obviously the queen and knave of Tarts." She recites in a sing-song voice as she walks backwards facing Nanuet, [i]The Queen of Hearts, she made some tarts, All on a summer day: The Knave of Hearts, he stole those tarts, And took them quite away![/i] "Katherine could be the Queen of Hearts. She can be so stuffy sometimes!” She imitates Katherine’s posture, shakes her finger at Nanuet and in a stern voice mimics. “There was only one person who ever called me by that name, madam. As you are not he, I'd appreciate it if you kept your opinions on my corset to yourself…” She changes her stance and says equally sternly. “I will accept your apology when you are sober and actually mean it, Priestess." Minerva raises her finger to the sky and proclaims to the dark night "Off with their heads!" Before she breaks down into another fit of giggles. Kate stood stiffly as the Priestess's voice carried into the saloon. "As I am not needed here, I will go get myself a room at the hotel. Good night. Good night, Chester." She walked softly out of the saloon, past Ruby on the stairs and Jake on the street and into the hotel where she called for the innkeeper to arrange for her lodgings. [/QUOTE]
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"Here There Be Vampires" A Promise City, Arizona Story Hour
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