Wizards, Whiskey and Wonderful Things - Concluded

[Silver Moon]

Chapter 206, “A night out”, Thursday, March 30th, 1882, 6:00 PM

After her bath Ruby quickly dresses in her plain clothes and bids Laurie good evening. Back at the Lucky Lady Ruby asks Harry to get a message to Clarisse, that she will most likely not be singing this evening and could she please cover for her.

Ruby runs upstairs and does not see Jake. She quickly casts a couple of minor spells to mostly dry her thick curly hair. She brushes it thoroughly, admiring herself in the mirror as she does. She carefully chooses a sheer delicate black chemise to go under her black satin corset. She pulls the ribbons as tight as she can, knowing her new dress hides nothing. Sheer black stockings and garter complete the outfit.

She dresses in her underclothes, covers herself with her robe then starts pinning the sides of her long hair up while she hums to herself. She leaves the rest curling freely down her back. She lightly runs her fingers over her shiny silver heart earrings and the only other jewelry she wears is the ruby ring that never leaves her finger. Some charcoal around her eyes, some rouge and a bit of lipstick are all applied with great care. She sprays herself with a small amount of sweet perfume before standing and heading to the closet.

She carefully pulls her new dress out and looks upon it lovingly. She slips it over her head, then pulls the ribbons on the back tight as she did on her corset. She chooses her best pair of ankle boots and laces them up. She stands, again admiring every angle of herself in the mirror, smoothing the gown here and there. She slips the straps to the perfect spot off her shoulders and, leaning forward, adjusts her bosom to her liking. She runs her hands over her small waist, the dress accentuating every curve. Satisfied she looks perfect she starts heading for the door before she stops. She grabs the photograph of her and Jake off the dresser and kisses it, before placing it affectionately back in its place. She blissfully bounces downs the stairs, only half an hour late.

Jake looks up and sees Ruby sweeping down the stairs. She is adorned in a skin tight red confection of a dress with a black velvet floral pattern all over it. The top is cut low as is typical of Ruby's dresses but the split on the side of her dress goes shockingly high. The shoulder straps sit delicately on her shoulders and the long train sweeps the steps as she walks. With each step of her long legs, her black garters with red ribbon and the slightly tanned flesh of her upper thigh peek through the slit in the side that is cut to her hip.

Jake's tongue grows thick in his mouth and swallowing suddenly becomes a challenge. He attempts clearing his throat several times and is saved the embarrassment of not being able to speak by the slow and dramatic pace of Ruby's decent down the stairs. She walks stately and sensually towards the table he is sitting at. He rises quickly and knocks the chair over behind him. He coughs once more and manages to blurt out, "It must be the civilized world."

Ruby looks at Jake curiously as she slowly bends forward and lifts the chair back to its normal position. With the smallest hint of a smile on her lips she asks, "And what does that mean?" Jake looks from the chair to Ruby and blinks a couple of time before regaining his composure. "Forgive my paltry imagination and previous slights against you with my meager adorations. Ruby West, you must be the most beautiful woman in the civilized world."

Ruby's attention is drawn to the sound of a pair of horses and the jingle of harness pulling up to the front of the Lucky Lady. "My lady, our ride is here." Jake is starting to gain back his smooth speech. "I am truly torn, for I should savor every moment of you dressed like this but I suddenly want to carry you back up the stairs."

Ruby looks Jake up and down slowly. "Don't you look handsome tonight, baby." She moves closer to Jake and whispers to him while keeping her eyes locked on his, "Darling, there will be plenty of time for carrying later...at least I hope you won't forget." Ruby smiles at Jake, sweetly and seductively at the same time. "So I take it you like my new dress?" she says while moving her head to her hair caresses her back. "And what's this about a ride?" She takes Jake's hand and she pulls him out to the porch

Waiting in front was a open top carriage and a driver lead by two mostly white horses. Jake bows and offers her his hand to help her into. "Best Austin Blake could do on short notice. I had to tell him three times that I wanted the carriage to take you from here to the Promise City Hotel before he believed me. He thinks I am crazy." As Ruby climbs past him into the carriage he leans in conspiratorially and whispers, "He's right, I am."

Ruby climbs into the carriage with Jake's assistance and makes herself comfortable, arranging her dress just so around her, making sure to leave some skin showing. She keeps the sweet, sexy smile on her face, and her eyes gaze at Jake adoringly. "Perhaps we can go for a ride before we have our dinner? You can tell me just how crazy you are." "My good man," Jake says to the driver, "take us on a short ride around the town before dinner." He turns to Ruby. "This way our meal does not get cold. We can dally on a ride afterwards to your hearts content."

As the driver trots slowly around the short main streets of Promise City Jake hooks Ruby's arm through his arm and clasps her hand with both of his hands. "Is it not enough that you make my heart yearn for you dear Ruby, that you also make that same heart pound ferociously with a greedy desire and kindle a voracious craving in the rest of this poor weak flesh? Truth be told, I would have it no other way and yet I am still astonished and delighted with each new day." The carriage pulls up in front of the Promise City Hotel and Jake leaps out to help Ruby down from the carriage.

Ruby lets her eyes wander between Jake's gaze and his lips, watching and listening intently as he speaks. "It will only be enough darling when I know that you desire me and need me as much as I desire you and need you. And that nothing can ever come between us." Ruby leans towards Jake and kisses his lips lightly while running her fingers across his cheek. Then she leans her head back against carriage and looks up to the stars. "Not even the gods can change how I feel about you."

Do not taunt the gods my dear, Jake thinks but says nothing about it. "We shall toast to starry nights and certain love then." Ruby smiles, "I like that and I'll hold you to it." As they enter the hotel dining area Jake greets Mrs. Smith warmly and ignores her frequent glances at Ruby's daring outfit. "Could you provide some of your famous fare to our driver as well Mrs. Smith? Please put it on my bill." Jake holds a chair out for his date and helps her with the extensive train.

"Isn't that sweet of you to get the driver some dinner..." She continues to look at Jake adoringly. "You surprise me everyday with the things you do." Melissa comes over with a menu for Jake to look over. While he is checking it out Ruby looks around the room and sighs. This is like the dinners we had in Tombstone. I hope we can get a night of peace and relaxation. She gets lost in her thoughts for a few moments, twirling some hair around a finger, before setting her gaze back to Jake. "So baby, tell me something else about you that I don't know. I want to know all about my handsome Jacob Cook."

"Like what? That I don't smoke or chew tobacco? A vile habit that is." Jake rubs his beard. "I don't like beer, braggarts or boors." He smiles and continues, "Or did you mean what have I done? I worked the riverboats from St Louis to Memphis as general help. I worked the boats from Memphis to Vicksburg as a gambler after I elaborated on my vast experience as a dealer. After that I worked a bit on the boats between St Louis and Memphis again, but that time as a dealer. I think I even spent an evening in the Lone Star Saloon in Denver a year or so ago. That memory is a little vague though due to the quality or quantity of whiskey involved." Jake smiles while he folds his arms on the table in front of him and leans forward. "Is that what you meant? It would be only equitable that my lovely companion do the same."

“Hmmm...A vile habit, huh?” She says this out loud while she looks at the ceiling before setting her gaze back on Jake. “Yes, any old thing would have done. I am sure that you have lived much in your nineteen years of life and I want to know all about it, good AND bad. What you like AND what you’ve done.”

“I spent a lot of time in Kansas City, well, a lot for me anyway. My favorite color is red but you’ve probably figured that one out already,” she giggles. Then she face turns more serious. “I’ve had a noose around my neck and didn’t particularly like the experience, it’s one I hope to never repeat.” She shivers but continues anyway, “I actually like to sing and dance but it’s not a good way to make money. And…” she grins as she copies Jake’s position, leaning forward on the table, “I really like it when you kiss my neck. Actually I just really like it when you kiss me at all. You’re the best kisser I’ve ever had the pleasure of kissing.”

"How fortunate, for I like kissing your neck." Jake spends a quiet moment gazing at her neck and below before continuing. "Kansas City, huh." Jake unconsciously rubs his hand around his neck. "I do remember them being fond of hanging in that area. You can tell me that story another time. It's a wonder we didn't meet in Kansas City. You know I was there for a while too before heading off to Denver." Jake looks up as Melissa Smith begins bringing in their food. "Ah, here it is." "You've been to a lot of places. I have too but most of them I don't remember," she shrugs. "Oh this looks great!" Ruby takes a big breath in of onion soup. "Where are some places you want to visit? When is your birthday? Besides whiskey and poker what else do you like to do for fun?" After Ruby's barrage of questions she takes a sip of soup.

"I can honestly say that there are few places that I have dreamed about one day visiting. It is more I enjoy myself nearly everywhere I go." Jake takes a few spoonfuls of soup. "The soup is excellent. Jacob Alistair Cooke came into the world on Wednesday, May 15th, in the year 1861. Although I do not have recollection of that early in my childhood it was told to me afterwards that my father viewed another child at that point in time to be a nuisance and a drain on the family resources during a period of need. This was told to me by my eldest brother Charles. It is possible that Charles made this up to taunt me, but it seems credible years later. Not satisfied to simply be a nuisance by my mere existence I soon strove to be a clever nuisance." Jake smiles and enjoys some more soup.

"What else do I like to do? Eat good food. Gaze at a beautiful woman." He whispers, "Run a good scam." He stops eating and looks at Ruby. "Since I moved around a lot I didn't get to do anything for long. I am easily entertained by many things. Your turn."

Ruby laughs. "I've always wanted to go everywhere. I want to have grand adventures all over the world. I used to dream about my grandmother and what it would be like digging through tombs in the pyramids Egypt, all the old churches and art in Italy, belly dancing in Morocco," she starts speaking faster, "Turkey, gay Paree," she giggles, "India, some exotic beach somewhere like Fiji or Tahiti, maybe come across some pirates in the Spanish Main." She shrugs. "I'll never get most of those places. I'll probably never get to any of them. But I can dream right?"

She looks Jake in the eyes, "You know, I had stopped dreaming for many years. I mean I used to dream of escaping but slowly even those dreams kind of died away and I was just left with what I had, which was nothing. Until you anyway." She shrugs again and has a couple more spoonfuls of soup. "Let's see, I ruined my parents lives on June 2. So we both have birthdays coming up. What do you want for your birthday baby?"

He leers at her and then laughs. "No I guess I don't want to wait for my birthday for that. I don't know, I have not thought about birthday presents for quite a while. I'm sure you'll be giving me hints about yours though." He finishes his soup. "That'll keep me from doing something stupid."

Ruby laughs, "You get that whenever you want it, you certainly don't have to wait until your birthday! Besides, I couldn't wait until your birthday either." "I haven't thought about birthday presents in a long time either. But this year is different no? But I already got my birthday present so there won't be any hints from me." Ruby pauses and looks thoughtful. "But you could give me a birthday party. I haven't had one since I was a child." Mrs. Smith takes away the soup and places their dinner plates before them. "A party we can do."

Ruby smiles up at Jake then looks down at her plate. "UUmmm I love a good steak. It's been a while." Ruby picks up her knife and starts delicately cutting up her steak. "I like parties. I used to have them but they were the boring kinds of parties," she rolls her eyes, "I'm sure the kind your parents wanted to go to. Why don't you tell me what Abby's boarding parties were like?"

Jake nearly chokes on a bite of food. "Abby's boarding house parties?" Jake makes sure that Melissa Smith is not in the room. "After all but the best customers went away she'd lock the doors and you'd have thought Dionysus himself had arrived. The drinks would flow and food would appear from who knows where. There was always music; people were crowded into rooms and hallways singing and dancing the night away."

Jake chuckles, "She needed the sturdiest tables in the neighborhood cause somebody was always dancing on them. No fancy ball gowns or stiff collars to be seen there, no matter what time of year it soon became too warm to be wearing much of anything. Not that there was ever much fancy clothing on Abby's girls mind you. This would go on until day break with those that hadn't gone off to other more private entertainments or passed out. Abby was a lot of things, and not many them what you might call high moral character but she would not tolerate meanness. Whether you roomed there, worked there or just enjoyed the girls you would be out on your behind at the first sign of a mean streak. Everybody at Abby's enjoyed the parties."

Ruby sighs dreamily, "Now THAT sounds like a good fun party. I haven't been to a party like that in ages." She glances around at the crowd. "And it definitely wouldn't happen here, not with our friends and not in Promise City. Not without a lot of help from Aphrodite anyway," she smirks.

"So, would you come with me to visit all those exotic locals?" She glances around quickly before leaning across the table and whispering, "Mr. G said he would take me traveling." She sits back up straight and brings her fork to her mouth. "Of course, I don't know if he really meant it or not." "I'd follow you anywhere. I like traveling." Jake sighs and wipes his mouth with is hand. "At least I like traveling most ways. HIS way of traveling still makes me a tad nervous." He laughs hesitantly. "I'll do it, but I don't have to enjoy the ride."

Ruby just stares at Jake for a moment. "You would really? You're so cute baby!" Ruby takes another bite of food. "No, you don't have to like it. I don't even know it would happen, even though he said he would do it." She shrugs, "He doesn't like you very much. He thinks you're getting so into something dangerous." She shakes her head, "He doesn't see it's not you, that we've had no choice."

"I don't mind so much. I don't think he likes any men hanging around his flock of pigeons or whatever. Who would blame him surrounding himself with young women." "Pigeons! Humph." Ruby puts a small pout on her face. "You just called me a pigeon, that's not very romantic."

Mrs. Smith arrives with dessert and clears away their plates, "Someone thought chocolate was a good idea?" She winks at Jake and quickly heads back into the kitchen. Ruby's face breaks out into a large grin. "Chocolate!" She looks down at the chocolate torte in front of her. Her eyes widen as she picks up the bright red strawberry that is resting on the plate. She twirls it in her fingers, "This may be better than the chocolate!" She takes a bite and closes her eyes, enjoying that sweet berry. "Yummy. Thank you for dinner, I wish it didn't have to end."

He replies, "We can still have a carriage ride. Since I buttered him up with some of Mrs. Smith's cooking and a little extra coin, I'm sure he'd be happy to take us on a romantic ride." He samples the dessert and adds, "Unless you would rather have the ride without a nosey driver?" Ruby smiles, "Would YOU rather have the ride without the nosey driver?" Jake answers, "You know, he was looking rather tired. I think I'll send him home and drive the carriage back myself." Ruby's smile grows wider and she looks back to her dessert. "Good idea." She enjoys her dessert but seems to be eating it rather quickly.

After they finish desert Jake escorts Ruby to the carriage. He speaks quietly to the driver and thanks him for waiting. Then he sends him home early. "I'll bring the carriage back later tonight."

Jake drives it the short distance to the Lucky Lady and hops out. "I'll be right back." He is gone only two minutes before climbing back on. He snaps the reins and guides the horses in a big circle around town before heading east. He lets the horses clop along lazily outside of town for some time before pulling the rig off the trail.

They enter into a clearing surrounded by mesquite trees that look eerily like gaunt guardians in the dark. Ruby can see that the stars already are burning brightly in the sky as he climbs over the seat back to the rear seat and places his revolver on the floor of the carriage. Then he removes something from the inside pocket of his jacket and sits next to her. He fumbles with it for a moment before Ruby sees the faintest reflection of silver and smells the sweet aroma of bourbon. He hands her the open flask and says, "To starry nights and certain love, my dear Ruby West."

Ruby takes the flask and holds it up. “To starry nights and certain love, my darling Jacob Cook,” she repeats quietly then takes a large sip. She passes the flask back to Jake before giving him a leisurely soft kiss. Then she slouches in the seat and leaning her head back against the carriage she gazes up at the stars. Jake also takes a drink then does the same. Ruby takes his hand and grips it tightly in hers while keeping her eyes on the star filled sky. The moon bathes them in her soft pale light and only the occasional sound of the night time creatures can be heard. They sit quietly in the silence of the night as time passes, occasionally taking sips from the flask.

Without breaking her stare upon the stars Ruby says softly, “Sometimes I feel like I’m dreaming and I’m scared one of these days I’ll wake up. It’s all too good to be true.” Jake doesn't turn from looking skyward when he says, "Not to worry Miss West, if we wake up and find out something is not quite right we will just have to go back to bed." "That's always the answer, huh?" Ruby moves closer to Jake and rests her head on his shoulder but keeps her eyes on the sky. "Everything is always right in our bed." She is quiet for a bit before she lifts her head and looks at Jake, "Do you think we'll always be together?"

Jake opens his mouth to answer and hears the crack and sound outside the carriage. "Ruby darling," He says loudly, "I am so sure of it that I am going to get down on my knees...." as he says this he passes her his derringer that quickly comes out of his belt holster. Getting down on his knees he reaches on the floor boards and retrieves his revolver, ".... and swear to you that I'll love you forever, and..." With that statement of Jake's, the peaceful sounds of the night are disturbed by the cracking of a tree branch and the stifled voice of someone outside the carriage.

 

[Silver Moon]

DM's note: I was going to have to miss our weekly online night so instead of canceling the game I assigned an NPC to each of the players for that night. Based on the following chapter I'd say they did fine.


Chapter 207, “Challenges”, Thursday, March 30th, 1882, 8:00 PM

Grant Keebler walked Kate over to the Lucky Lady. Inside she had expected to see her friends; instead she found they were all elsewhere for the evening. She sighed and greeted Job and Jeff before making a round of the room to take and fill orders.

"Mr. Tomlinson, how nice to see you," she smiled as she approached the table closest to the stage. "Those are lovely," she said pointing to a small bouquet of flowers in front of him. "You think so, Mrs. Kale? I don't know much about flowers myself." "You don't need to know much to recognize beauty, Mr. Tomlinson. Can I get you another drink?" He shook his head. "I'm all set. Is Miss Townsend singing tonight?"

"Miss West seems to be out for the evening, so I imagine she will be. Soon, considering the time. You'll excuse me, I hope? Just let us know if you get hungry and Maria will take good care of you," Kate smiled and walked away. Chester better put in an appearance tonight. His competition seems to be serious.

Chester comes into the Lucky Lady from Gilson's bathhouse, his gunbelt over his shoulder. "Evening Kate. That stage is coming together really well. Nanuet is putting in some long hours out there. I guess he wants to impress out local priestess." She says, "Speaking of impressing women, it appears that Judge Isby's assistant has brought flowers for Clarisse."

"What? Let me change. Then I'll set Mr. Tomlinson straight. Don't worry, I'm just going to talk to him." He rushes back to his room and changes into a fresh set of clothes. Chester heads for Kevin's table. "Mr. Tomlinson, can I sit here? I'd like to be close to the stage." Kevin replies, "Be my guest, Deputy. I heard Miss Townsend is singing tonight. I brought these flowers for her." Chester takes off his hat and scratches his head. "About that. I don't know if you know, but Miss Townsend and I are seeing each other." "Yes, Miss West informed me," Kevin responds. "And what a lucky man you are. You can just consider me a fan," he smiles cockily.

Chester hears the challenge in the other man's tone. "You have good taste there, Mr. Tomlinson. And I do consider myself a lucky man, indeed. I hear you're a fencer." He replies, "I am. Quite good as a matter of fact." Chester says, "Never had the chance. I know my way around a cavalry saber, though. But that was a practical matter. Life and death." "It's not much different really. Perhaps you and I could spar one of these days," Kevin replies, "Maybe at the festival? Of course, we'll make sure not to schedule it while Miss Townsend is singing."

Kate kept her eye on the table where Chester and Kevin Tomlinson were talking. She was too far away to hear anything, but at least there didn't seem to be any imminent danger. Once everyone in the room seemed settled Kate traded her apron for a seat at the piano, she had only played one song before she heard a light step behind her and Clarisse's voice saying, "Good evening, Chester. Mr. Tomlinson."

Kevin immediately stands. "Good evening Miss Townsend. These are for you." He hands the flowers to her as she blushes. "I look forward to hearing you sing tonight. Deputy Marshal Martin and I were just talking about sparring during the festival." "Oh but that would be dangerous, wouldn't it? I heard about the fencing matches, I suppose they wouldn't include it in the festival if it wasn't safe. I'm sure it would be very interesting to watch," Clarisse said.

"That's settled, then. I challenge you to a duel, Mr. Tomlinson. Do you have extra foils, I think you call them? My old saber would be too dangerous in a sporting arena. That's a new song, isn't it, Clarisse? It's very nice." "Yes, I have extra foils." He reaches out his hand to Chester, "I accept your challenge Mr. Martin and look forward to the sport." He gives Chester a wide grin.
Chester shakes Kevin's hand. "May the best man win. Will regular duds be fine or are there uniforms? I'm looking forward to this." Chester gives a smile to match Kevin's.

"We can use regular clothes if you prefer. But there might be fencing uniforms available, I will leave the choice up to you." He motions to Katherine. "I am also looking for to this. A worthy opponent, indeed. Now," he says glancing to the stage, "Will you sit with me and listen to the lovely Clarisse sing tonight?" "I guess I will. What are your intentions toward her, if I might ask?"

"Intentions? I am a fan, just like you are Mr. Martin." He smiles casually as he watches Clarisse on the stage. Chester raises an eyebrow, but doesn't reply. "What are you drinking? Next one's on me. I insist. After all, if you're working with Judge Isby, I'll be seeing a lot of you." Tomlinson says, "How kind of you Mr. Martin. A beer is fine, thank you. Yes, I suppose we will be working together. You're new to law enforcement, no? How do you like the job so far?"

Chester gets a couple of beers from Harry. "Yes, I am. It's nice to help keep law and order here in town. The recent trouble with the Cowboy Gang has just brought that into focus. No need to be formal, I'm not on duty. You can call me Chester. Can I call you Kevin?" "Absolutely," he replies casually. "I haven't been here long but already there has been a good amount of trouble. Of course, that is why Judge Isby hired me on. Keeps things interesting to say the least. I have to say, I like it here so far." Chester takes a long pull from his mug. "That's good. From what I've seen, Promise City certainly isn't boring. But there's something to be said for boring every once in a while."

A tall man with dark hair and light blue eyes enters the Lucky Lady. Kate thinks she may recognize him but can't place the face. Jeff checks him at the door and he has no weapons. He sits at a small table in the corner. Since Clarisse seemed to be distracted by the men, Kate got up and approached the not so strange stranger at the corner table. "Good evening. Can I get you something?" He replies, "Yes, please. I'd like a red wine, preferably a decent one."

"I'll see what I can do," Kate said with a smile and went behind the bar. With the festival this weekend Mr. Hoover had gotten in quite a bit of wine. Only a couple bottles were at the bar, but they were good if not excellent. She went back to the table and said, "We don't have much call for wine, but we have better than usual with the festival coming up. If you're still here on Saturday night you should be able to get some very good wine." She started to step away and then turned back. "I hope you'll forgive me, but you seem terribly familiar and I can't seem to place you. Have we met?"

"I'll be here Saturday," he smiles as he stands. "We may have met." He reaches out his hand, "Colin Turner. I've been here in Promise City before, on business. Although the last time I was here the saloon was called the Lone Star." Kate smiled and shook the man's hand. "Katherine Kale. Well, now I'm surprised I remember. Those were busy days when it was still the Lone Star. The new owners decided to give it a new name, the Lone Star was kind of a family name for the old owners. I'm sure you'll enjoy the festival. Is that what brings you this trip?"

"Business as usual," he sighs. "And last time I was here in the Lon... I mean Lucky Lady, I heard the heavenly singing of Miss West so I decided to come back and hear her sing." As he talks he looks at Kate with his piercing eyes and doesn't break his stare. "Well, ah, if business is what keeps you coming back, then it's a good thing," Kate said, finally looking down to break his intense stare.

"I'm afraid Miss West has the evening off." She looked over toward the stage. "Miss Townsend will be on stage tonight. But Miss West will be back tomorrow night, and I believe she is performing at the festival, so you will have several more chances." "Oh," he responds, obviously disappointed. "Well, I shall see her tomorrow evening then. But perhaps you might make some time tonight to share some of this wine with me. I am often on the road and don't get to spend time with too many beautiful women."

"I'd think you'd want to find a beautiful woman to share your wine with then," Kate said blushing. "Perhaps after the first set I might have a glass." "Why Mrs. Katherine Kale, do not put yourself down, for you are a beautiful woman. And I shall look forward to you sharing that glass with me." He continues his intense stare. "Yes, of course," Kate said, resisting the urge to rub her arms as if she had the chills. "Ah, is there anything you'd like to hear?"

"Whatever you desire to play my dear. I am a lover of all music." His smile is disarming and he nods to Kate. "Play your favorite, that way I will experience what it is you love." "As you like," Kate said and smiled despite herself. She went to the piano, seeing Mr. Tomlinson wave her over. She sat down at the piano and played a set for Clarisse, followed by the waltz by Strauss she had often played at the El Parador.

After the waltz, Kate again donned her apron and made a round of the room refilling drinks and taking new orders. Once that was finished she picked up another wine glass and the wine bottle and went back to the corner table. "I hope you found Miss Townsend's singing pleasant. She is very different from Miss West, but lovely in her own way."

He stands when Kate approaches and pulls out the chair for her, gesturing for her to sit. "Yes, Miss Townsend's singing was pleasant as was your superior playing. You must have been well trained for I have an ear for such things." He waits for Kate to sit before he joins her. He takes the wine from her and pours her a generous glass, handing it to her. "I find that variety is the spice of life, don't you?"

Kate took a small sip. "I find that more true now since I moved west. In Boston it seemed everyone valued everything staying exactly the same. Well, everything below the surface anyway." "Yes, I quite understand what you mean. Some parts of society value things remaining the same. I find that absolutely dull." He takes a sip of his wine, "And where is Miss West tonight, If I may be so bold?" "Ah, and Miss West is not dull," Kate said, now feeling she understood why she was sitting here talking to this handsome man. "I honestly don't know where she is tonight. I had expected her here. I imagine she and Mr. Cook are taking some private time together."

He replies, "You are not dull either my dear, I hope you are not offended by my questions. Who is this Mr. Cook you speak of?" He takes another sip of his drink and adds, “As for you, why don't you tell me about yourself? As I said earlier, I am so often alone and sharing some time with a young lady such as yourself is very pleasing to me. How did you come to Promise City?"

Kate replies, "I'm not offended, just well aware that Miss West is... shall we say, unusual. Mr. Cook and she both own part of this saloon. Mr. Cook also runs a table most nights. Myself, there is nothing very interesting to tell. I," Katherine took a deep breath, as she always did before answering this question, "I arrived in Tombstone in October to meet my husband. He had been ill back east and moved out here to make a place for us. He passed away while I was making the journey." She stopped and swallowed, but she had promised Tom no more tears.

"I stayed there until January when I moved here. Since then I've bought part of a ranch with friends, and will be opening a school soon. I'll be living above stairs in the school building with my ward." "That is a sad story indeed. And yet you have prevailed and made a life for yourself. That is to be admired Mrs. Kale." She says, "Unusual in that she is a very young woman with a great deal of experience in the world. She knows her mind and lives her life as she chooses. She is not afraid of shedding societies expectations, and that is unusual."

Colin gives her a warm smile. "It sounds like an interesting story to me. Why do you put yourself down so?" "Put myself down? I would not say I had. I only..." she looked down for a moment, those icy blue eyes had been piercing through her again. "Perhaps because it is the life I live everyday it seems ordinary." He answers, "I would say your life is quite unordinary, Mrs. Kale. And I would like to hear more about it at some point. But I think I am taking up much of your time, and while I like speaking with you I also like hearing you play. Maybe we can talk again later?" He takes another sip of his wine but does not take his eyes off her.

A few miles away, Jake hears a sound outside when he is telling Ruby ".... and swear to you that I'll love you forever, and..." He rolls out of the carriage on the side of the noise and comes up with the pistol cocked and aimed at the source of the sound, " promise to kill any bastard that tries to harm you."

Jake's exit of the carriage is greeted by a bright flash of light that temporarily blinds him. Jake rolls again so he is a more difficult target. The sounds of someone running can be heard but it takes a moment before Jake's vision clears. Once he can see again the man has made it to the trees and had heavy cover. "Jake!" Ruby calls out and takes a shot with Jake's derringer before he gets too far away.

Ruby, having been inside the carriage when the initial flash went off was not blinded but still had a tough time seeing clearly at first. Her vision soon adjusted and she squeezed off a shot. The small weapon however is designed for short range and the shot misses, although not by the margin the target would have liked. "Damn it," Ruby swears as her shot misses. "Are you ok baby?" she calls out as she jumps off the carriage.

Jake, still partially blinded, moves to tree cover and takes aim, making sure the man continues to flee. The man does continue to flee and soon mounts a horse hidden nearby. He rides away hard, not looking back.

"Yes, I'm fine." Jake kicks the tree and turns to Ruby. "All I have is those damn flaming rounds in this thing. I didn't want to waste them or I would have unloaded on whoever it was." He walks over and hugs her with his left hand, his right still holding the Colt. "It probably wouldn't have been the smartest thing to do, but I am sick of Cowboy Gang trouble. What was that flash? Did he use magic on me?"

"Why can't those %$%^$ just leave us alone!" Ruby yells out. Visibly upset, she rolls into Jake's hug and smushes her face against Jake's chest. Her voice muffled she responds, "I don't think it was magic he used on you. Just some sort of gunpowder contraption." Jake releases the hammer on the pistol and rolls the cylinder back so the gun won't accidentally fire. Jake starts to chuckle and then to laugh, "I wonder if that coyote tracking us knows how lucky he was that we went to Mrs. Smiths for dinner."

Ruby looks up at him and says, "What does that have to do with anything?" "We can't get liquored up there," he puts the pistol in his belt and sweeps her off her feet, "because if I had a few drinks in me I probably wouldn't have thought about saving the rounds and he'd be blown to Hades."

Wrapping her arms around Jake's neck Ruby lets the pout fall off her face and she giggles as he lifts her off the ground. "But I was having such a nice time and he ruined it! Did you see who it was? I think I might have. I mean, I got a little bit of a glimpse. I don't know who it was but I thought I might have seen him before. I'm not sure. I wish I was drunk so I didn't care so much."

"Naught but a passing cloud on our starry night." Jake swings her around several times, his boots crunching on the desert sand. "I have the most desirable woman all to myself under a perfect night of stars. Nothing is ruined." He carries her to the carriage and puts her in it. "I'll be right back."

He walks to the edge of the clearing, removing his reddish brown scarf. He ties it to a tree that would be visible from the trail. Coming back he says, "We can ask Nanuet to come out and see if he can learn anything from the tracks in the morning." Jake mounts the carriage and frowns. "Bastard made me spill the bourbon." He finds the stopper and places it in the empty flask before returning it to his waist coat.

"Let's enjoy the stars for a little while longer." He sits and puts his arm around her. "Then we can go back and dance the last songs at the Lucky Lady so I can show you off in that wonderful new dress." Ruby smiles at Jake as she gets comfortable in his arms and looks back up to the sky. She knew Jake would be watching the trees. Only a brief amount of time goes by before she asks, without looking away from the starry sky, "Did you mean what you said?"

"That you look wonderful in that dress?" Jake sees her expression and judges that was not it. "Oh, the long time question." Jake chuckles, "You can thank our coyote friend again for that because I was about to just say yes." He pulls her a little closer, "I get some of my best words under pressure. I did mean it."

"That you will love me forever... it means so much to me for you to say that...and mean it." Ruby lightly runs her fingers across Jake's cheek then applies slight pressure to turn his head towards hers. She kisses him softly while looking him in the eyes. "I love you baby. Let's go back soon so you can take me to bed." "You don't need to ask me twice..." He returns the kiss and then climbs back into the front to drive the carriage, only taking a moment to tuck the revolver into the back of this trousers. On the way back he makes the horses go faster than he did coming out.

They leave the rig at Drovers and walk hand in hand to the Lucky Lady. They walk casually back into the Lucky Lady, which is still packed with people. Ruby unconsciously squeezes Jake's hand and smiles as they enter their saloon.

Chester is sitting with Kevin Tomlinson and Clarisse and Katherine is talking with a handsome man that Ruby recognizes as someone who has been in the Lucky Lady but not for a while. It looks like the two of them are deep in conversation as they laugh and seem very interested in what the other is saying. "Let's make up for our losing our bourbon, shall we?" Ruby doesn't bother to go behind the bar, instead leaning over it, leaving Jake with a good view of her rear. She grabs a bottle and two glasses then slides off the bar. She pours two extremely generous glasses for them and passes one to Jake. "Here's to forever Mr. Cook..."

"Forever, starry nights and certain love." He sips the bourbon twice and then quaffs half the glass.
"Why isn't there music playing in my saloon? I still want that dance." Ruby raises her glass to Jake's toast and takes a sip of her bourbon. "I don't know...maybe because Mrs. Kale is involved in an engaging conversation, as is Miss Townsend. Let's ask them to play, shall we? I want to dance too." Ruby takes a large gulp of her bourbon then takes Jake by the hand leading him over to Kate.

"Excuse me Mrs. Kale, would you mind playing us a song?" Ruby says interrupting her conversation with Turner. As soon as she speaks a smile comes to Colin's face and he slowly turns to look at Ruby but doesn't say anything. Ruby doesn't even look at him. "Something lively, Mrs. Kale if you would be so kind." Jake adds. Ruby says to Jake, "Lively... But I want something slow. Can you play lively then slow?" Jake answers, "Perfect, two songs then!"

"Why is everyone calling me Mrs. Kale all of the sudden, have you all forgotten my name? I was just getting up to play, Ruby. Lively then slow. You'll excuse me, I hope?" Kate said to Mr. Turner, noting his attention had already shifted. She headed back toward the piano, ignoring the leer she got from Tony Lucky as she passed by. Clarisse got up from where she was sitting with Chester and Mr. Tomlinson, and Kate launched into a lively tune which Clarisse's voice soon joined.

Jake notices the look that the man is giving Ruby. Jake takes Ruby by the hand, puts an arm around her waist and launches into a lively dance step around the room. They dodge chairs, tables and people prancing and dancing around the room. Ruby's dress twirls about as Jake spins her and her legs show frequently through the prominent slit in the side of the dress. The lively song finishes and Jake crushes her close to him for the slow ballad.

Ruby puts her arms around her man's neck and sighs contentedly as he holds her as tight as he can by her waist. The feeling of Jake's hands gripping her back make her feel protected but at the same time her knees feel weak and her stomach churns with knots. Even after all the time they were together he could still make her melt, like no man before.

Ruby closes her eyes and lets Jake guide her around the floor. She breathes in his musky scent and pushes her nose against his neck. Before long she can't help herself, she starts nuzzling his neck as if they were alone and no one else existed. She let her hand wander to his shirt and she unbuttons the top two buttons revealing more neck to kiss. Finally her lips find their way to his and she kisses him passionately, her feelings of love and lust overwhelming her.

His pulse quickening, he guides Ruby towards the stairs, "Thank you for the song, Katherine, it was most enjoyable." Arm firmly around her waist he leads Ruby up the stairs. "Yes, thank you Kate!" Ruby calls over her shoulder as Jake pushes her.

Ruby grabs Jake and kisses him all the way back into their room, laughing and giggling loudly. Jake slams the door behind them and comes for Ruby, grabbing her again around the waist. "Oh," she says breathlessly as Jake kisses her neck, "The dress worked so well I'm not sure I should take it off!"

"Heh," Jake responds before pulling at the ribbons in the back to loosen it. "I guess that means you really like it, huh?" She smiles as he tugs. "The dress looks wonderful on you, and now I shall enjoy taking it off of you as well." Jake continues loosening the back. "I am quite done just looking." He tries for a little while to be patient and remove it in a slow and tantalizing way. With a sharp intake of breath he abandons that course and haphazardly pulls off the remainder her clothes while she tears at his. They don't really notice but the bed still squeaks.

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter 208, “The Facts of Life”, Thursday, March 30th , 1882, 11:00 PM

Since the Lucky Lady was close to empty when they arrived Nanuet and Minerva did not stay long. Nanuet escorted Minerva back to her boarding room and kissed her good night. He thought about trying to accompany her into the room but decided that she had not shown readiness for that just yet. No, I will wait until the signs are clear, besides you are both too drunk right now he thought to himself and left it with just a kiss.

He headed back to the grove and took his nightly rest, only to rise before the sun. His eyes quickly adjusted to the darkness, and he set about working in the grove. He took a quiet meal by himself for breakfast and then decided to head to the Lucky Lady to see if he could be of help, feeling guilty for not staying around the previous evening.

Niles Hoover was there to meet him. "Well we did get a delivery of liquor and wine for the festival, that needs to be sorted and put away. I am sure Maria could use help getting things set up in the kitchen as well. We'll keep you busy." Nanuet winked in return, "And that is how I like it, keeps my mind from wandering."

Ruby's eyes don't even open in the early morning before the sleepy smile comes to her face. She breathes in deeply, the scent and warmth of her man next to her thrilling her. Keeping her eyes closed she snuggles towards him, "Tell me you love me baby," she says softly. Before Jake can answer there is a frantic knock on the door.

“What in blazes is that at this hour?” Jake groans still half asleep, reaching for his guns. Bleary eyed Ruby repeats Jake’s moan, drags herself out of bed to answer the door and finds Minerva there. “Por favor, Ruby, I need to speak to you,” she glances around nervously, “In private,” she whispers. “Alright, alright, give me a minute we can go downstairs.” Ruby glances back at her nice warm inviting bed where Jake is already sleeping again and sighs. "I still want an answer when I get back!" she says even though no one is listening.

Once downstairs they get some coffee and as there is only Maria in the kitchen they take a seat at their normal table. “What’s up?” Ruby asks with a yawn. “I need to know some...woman things. I have decided that I am going to make love with Nanuet.” She raises her hand. "He does not know it yet. Do you think that he will object?” “Oh? When is this going to take place?” Ruby asks, rubbing her eyes.

“Tomorrow, after the ball,” Minerva replies nervously. “But you didn’t answer my question, do you think he’ll object?” Ruby raises an eyebrow then giggles, “Senorita, I have never known a man to object. Ever. Never. Not once. Get the point?” Ruby gives Minerva a genuine smile, “I doubt very much that he will object. He loves you.” Her smile grows wider, “And you’ve finally asked me something I know something about! What do you want to know?”

"I am not worried about the loving part so much. The goddess will guide me and well after all, there were many sheep and cattle farms where I come from and so I am familiar with THAT concept, but what I would like to know is, well, what can I do NOT to make a baby?” Ruby’s eyes widen and she pushes her coffee away. “I’m not going to need THAT this morning to wake up.” She smiles at her still frantic friend. “Ok, we’re going to have to have a long talk. I’m not sure you can rely on the sheep and cattle to know what to do. But don’t worry, I’ll help you. I’ll be right back.”

Ruby heads into the kitchen and returns with a little packet and a cup of tea. “This is from Dorita at the El Parador. It’s her special tea, she gave it to me when I first stayed with Jake.” She smiles again and a twinkle appears in her eyes as she spoons some leaves into the cup and swirls it around. “I don’t need it. There are many ways to not make babies. This is one of them. Another is to have a spell cast on you. Druids do it and some clerics too although it must be more powerful than you are ready for. I don’t take a chance with tea. I would never remember to drink it every day anyway.” She pushes the cup to Minerva.

Minerva eyes the tea with skepticism. "What if it doesn’t work? You say that you have not tried it. What if it doesn't work? Maybe Nanuet knows a spell." “I have tried it; I just also have the spell cast on me. But that is because I have had LOTS of chances for it not to work. Believe me, you can trust Dorita, it will work.” Ruby places her hand on Minerva’s. “And just a little bit of advice. It might ruin the mood to ask Nanuet to cast a spell like that on you.”

“Now, we need to talk about this sheep thing. Just how much do you know about making love?” Ruby asks carefully. Minerva says, "We all have the same parts, Ruby! It doesn’t look very difficult. The sheep certainly have no problem with it." Ruby hangs her head and holds it up with her hands while shaking it. Then she looks back to Minerva trying not to laugh. “We are not SHEEP. Get the SHEEP out of your mind, ok?”

Minerva scowls. "No need to get huffy about it. You asked if I knew what parts were involved and I told you. And Si, I know that we are not sheep. Sheep don't kiss and I’m confident that I've mastered that part of it. Nanuet and I have been practicing quite a bit,” she says unable to hold back a foolish grin.

“I’m not getting huffy! Just making sure we both know what we’re talking about. And I’m sure you’ve heard the phrase ‘practice makes perfect’. It’s true you know.” Ruby sighs, and continues to keep the giggles in. “Nanuet will know what to do. Even though he says he is a loner he has lived many many years and I’m sure he has not be without companionship. You have to try to relax about the experience and just stay in the moment. The feelings will overwhelm you but that’s ok, it’s part of the fun.”

"Si, He does tend to make my head spin. It was quite disconcerting at first, but I am no longer afraid now that I know what to expect. It is a very pleasant feeling once you know how to let go, don't you agree?” She picks up the tea and wrinkles her nose at the smell "Now, you ARE certain that this will do the trick?” She drinks it back like a shot of whiskey. “Yes, I agree making love is the most magical thing there is, when you do it with someone you actually love.” A slight blush creeps onto Ruby’s cheeks. “That part is new for me too but really very wonderful.” She gazes at her ruby ring as she twists it around her finger while she speaks.

“Ugh!” Minerva spits out, finishing the tea. “Gracias, Ruby. I do not know what I would do without you,” she says pocketing the tea packet. “You’re welcome. I wouldn’t be honoring Aphrodite very well if I didn’t help you now would I?” “Now let me give you some other advice…” Ruby smiles. She leans in close to Minerva and whispers some pointers in her ear. Both women break out in giggles. Minerva’s eyes open wide, “You can do THAT?” “Oh yes, and believe me, you will enjoy it very, very much.” She gives Minerva a knowing smile.

After she is done speaking with Minerva Ruby heads back upstairs. She sits by Jake and moves his hair off his face until he wakes. "Good morning sleepy head." She waits until his eyes open and he wakes up. "Any plans for today?" Jake yawns and says, "Good morning love." He stretches. "Plans? Yes I suppose I do. See Conrad about a costume. If there is time maybe some target practice. Some other stuff I can't remember now."

Ruby says, "First I'm going to see Mr. Gonzales. Actually, first I'm going to kiss you!" she says giggling. Leaning over him she kisses his lips gently. "Ok, I'm going to see Mr. Gonzales and see if he will teach me how to do that... trick." She sits back up. "Speaking of costumes, I can't wait for you to see mine! I wonder if you'll be able to find me when I have it on..." she teases. "And I can't wait to see you in one too, so you'd better get over there and get one!"

"If I have time I might get more sword lessons from Kevin, but that isn't so important. I think I'm forgetting something too..." she says tapping her lips. "I'm sure something will come up. I can always practice for the show with Madge or Jane." Ruby pauses and considers her next words carefully. "There is something else I need to tell you. This weekend, I have a feeling that Ringo is going to show up." She tugs on her hair, "We have to make sure to keep our friends safe. It's important."

With that Jake gets up. "What in blue blazes do I do with that little bit of news? I worry about our friends too, are you telling me to hide them away for the festival or never let them out of my sight?" Jake starts to get dressed and sighs, "I'm sorry, I don't mean to snap at you. What do you mean a feeling? What are you not telling me?"

She replies, "About Ringo, no I don't know anything. But doesn't it make sense that if he is going to strike he does it when we and the town town are distracted and overwhelmed with new people? I mean, look out the window! When I was downstairs it was unusually busy on the street." Ruby starts biting her lip. "About our friends... it's just.... I mean.... well, lets just make the ones who aren't as good at protecting themselves stay safe and uninjured." She looks away from Jake, continuing to nibble on her bottom lip.

"I tried to keep everyone at least going out with someone for protection. I keep my eyes open when I can." Jake says buttoning up his shirt. "Damn, woman what are you not telling me?" "What?" Ruby tries to ask innocently. She gets off the bed and turns her back to Jake, starting to get dressed but really is doing it to keep her face turned away from Jake as she attempts to lie to him after giving away more than she should. "It's just that certain of us may have certain conditions that make getting shot more undesirable... you know, like me, I just don't feel like getting shot anymore."

"The day I understand what women are saying to me I will certainly go mad and expire." He shakes his head. Ruby never turns away to get dressed, he thinks to himself, suddenly she is shy? "So which ones of us have conditions that make getting shot more desirable?" Jake laughs in spite of his annoyance. He remembers to reload his derringer and holster it.

He grabs his duster and gunbelts and kisses her on the way by. "When you figure out what you are trying to tell me, or hide from me, or what you want me to do just tell me. OK? I'm going to get some coffee." He walks to the door and smiles broadly, "Have I told you that you make me crazy?" Then he heads down the stairs.

Jake catches Chester Martin on the Deputy Marshall's way out the door to start his work day. "Hey, Chet! Hold on." Jake walks over to him. "Has there been anymore contact by the Cowboy Gang with Gormley? Who has been checking up on him?" Chester says with a smile, "Morning Jake. Don't let the Marshall hear you calling me Chet while I'm on duty. He wants us to be professional and all. As far as Gormley goes, he hasn't said anything to us about seeing Ringo yet. On our patrols, we make sure to walk by his place. You haven't heard anything, have you?"

"No, Deputy, I haven't." Jake tries not to snicker. "How do we know if you are on duty or not? Do we check for the tin star? Or should we just call you Deputy Marshall Martin all the time?" Jake tries to keep a serious face but is not doing very well.

Chester scratches his head. "Good point. Scrap the Deputy part. Otherwise it'll get too confusing. If the Marshall has a problem with that, then we'll deal with it then. Did you see that caravan that pulled up? Looks like they have all sorts of stuff. Hopefully all that money changing hands doesn't draw the wrong element." Chester moves on.

Just as Jake is contemplating having some breakfast, Neil Cassidy comes into the saloon and approaches Jake, "Good morning, I was on my way by and thought I would tell you the stage delivered that trunk full of books you wanted last night. I still don't understand what you are going to do with them." Jake replies, "Thanks Neil. Sometimes a good joke is worth a little extra effort. If it goes as planned I'll tell you the whole story. I'll have somebody come by and pick it up. Do you mind if they do it out of the back?" "No, not at all." Neil laughs and looks at Jake peculiarly. "You take your jokes mighty seriously." Jake pats his arm and says, "Nothing like a good belly laugh, eh?"

After Neil leaves Jake goes over to the El Parador and arranges for the trunk to be brought back to the barn. "Use the back door at Cassidy's. Mrs. Kale will let you know what to do with the trunk later on." Jake leaves Katherine a folded note with Dorita before heading back to the Lucky Lady for his breakfast.

Katherine,
There is now a trunk of old books in the El Parador barn that the staff think belongs to you. It is to be used if suddenly we decide we need a decoy. We aren't planning on bringing them to the Lucky Lady as a ruse at this time, nor do we have any plans for them. Just a contingency.
Jake

Kate woke Friday morning alone in her room, like most mornings. This morning though she missed Ginnie and wondered if the girl had always doubted, and so kept away. She shook her head. Mr. Gonzales was right. Her adopted family here would help and everything would be alright. She got herself dressed and down to the Cantina for breakfast. Conrad wasn't usually up and about yet as far as she knew. She would have to ask him at lunch about the costumes. Voices broke into her thoughts as she was mechanically eating.

While Kate is eating her breakfast at the El Parador she is approached by Colleen and Cathleen O'Hara. Colleen exclaims, "Hello Mrs. Kale, Ginnie told us that there is a horse race and that you own a ranch. We have raced before. We were wondering if we could borrow some horses?"

"Good morning, girls." Kate paused and laid down her fork. "I had planned to race myself. I wouldn't mind loaning the horses, but I would want to see you both ride first, and talk to your mother. Racing can be dangerous."

Cathleen says "We've raced before. We work as a team. I sprint the first half and tire out the competition trying to keep up with a little girl. Then when my horse tires I back off and let Colleen sprint to the finish line against all of the other tuckered out animals." Colleen says, "Mother knows we ride. We were taught at the University stables. We helped the stable master there."

"I don't doubt your mother knows, but I would still want to check with her. It's only polite. And I'm sure you're training is more than adequate." Kate smiled at the girls with a twinkle in her eyes. "But you really shouldn't tell your secrets to the competition."




"Damn It!" Ruby cursed as Jake left. She looks down at the puppies, "It's impossible to lie to him or keep things from him but I told Kate!" She finishes getting dressed with a frown on her face, confused. Ruby heads over to see Mr. Gonzales. Barely inside his room she blurts out, "I want to know how to make things invisible!" Mr. Gonzales laughs, "Good morning to you too my Golden Eagle."

He spends the next half-hour telling her about the bending of light rays. He explains how the person is not actually invisible but that the magic wraps light around the person so that they and their possessions are not visible. He explains how the spell caster themselves helps to power the spell, so that it is easiest to cast and maintain it upon yourself, harder to cast it upon another, and hardest to cast it upon a non-living object.

For today's lesson he will teach her simply how to make herself invisible, also explaining how doing any act to draw attention to herself will negate the magic. At the end of the lesson he suggests that she practice it once or twice more this day and that on Saturday he can teach her the Detect Invisibility spell, which is a layered spell that incorporates both the Detect Magic and Invisibility spells, so first requires proficiency in both.

Ruby is very thankful for the lesson and promises she will practice and be back first thing in the morning for the next lesson. They chat about the festival plans for a minute but Ruby leaves out any mention of the dance she may or may not do.

On leaving the El Parador Jake is mentally still working on the fast shot trick he's been practicing. He strains to remember what Red showed him long ago. He hadn't really been ready then, but he knew he was now....

" .... You be getting' pretty fast there Jacob me boy," Red says to Jake as he places a couple of empty whiskey bottles on the fence rail, "but just getting that fancy Colt of yours outta the holster faster than the other guy isn't good enough if there is more than one other guy."

"I can pull them off pretty fast, partner, you've seen me. Besides I'll just talk my way out most of the time-" Jake is interrupted by Red drawing, spinning around and fanning his pistol twice in rapid succession. The whiskey bottles shatter and fall from the fence. "What happens when them two burley lads in the alleyway decide they want to let their iron do the talking me boy?"

"How did you do that?" Jake says with his mouth nearly hanging open. "I'll show ye, but first we'll work with the double barrel shotgun." Red digs through his large travel bag, "It all has to do with not moving the barrel for the second shot until the first one has left the weapon, you see..."

.... he is lost in thought moving towards the saloon and he suddenly remembers that Wyatt had said something similar....

Jake is nearly finished his target shooting when he sees Wyatt Earp riding up to him. Jake waves his over with his hands empty and weapons resting on a large rock. "Just seeing what the noise was all about," Earp tells the gambler Cook. "Show me what you can do." Jake sets up some targets again and does some practice. Wyatt nods approvingly, "Not bad, not bad. How are you with that rifle of yours?" Jake picks ups his rifle and indicates that Earp should join him. They point out six birds sitting on a large cactus in the distance. "Go!" Earp says and four shots ring out as the birds scatter and drop from their roost.

Jake has only shot once to Wyatt Earps three shots. "How did you do that?" Jake says trying to keep his mouth from hanging open. "There is a trick on these repeaters to move the bolt quickly, you have to learn your weapon but most can do it." Wyatt Earp continues, "The key to accuracy is not moving the barrel for the next shot until the first shot has cleared the weapon..."

Jake comes out of his reverie and he sees Helen Barker. He waves to her and cross the street to speak to her. "Morning Deputy, can I ask you a question?" "Certainly Mr. Cook, the town law is always available to help." She answers in a friendly tone. "No, you misunderstand," He says, "I have a question, more like a favor to ask Helen Barker, the crack shot. The way you were able to fire so many shots so fast that day in the Merchants Association meeting. I've seen it done before and can almost do it myself but I am just not quite there."

Helen Barker looks a little smug and replies, "I could probably help you, of course it would have to be citizen Barker doing so." "I understand perfectly." Jake says, "I'm sure I can return the favor some other way." "Yes, I would expect so," She says matter of factly. "Let's get out of town a little ways so the gun fire doesn't spook anyone." She points and Jake follows her. "Dry fire that gun of yours and show me what you are doing. You know the secret is not just the fast shooting but keeping the barrel aimed properly at the target until the round is well clear...."

After spending time with Deputy Marshall Barker learning the finer points of rapid shoot at different targets, Jake heads back to the Lucky Lady. The unexpected interruptions have passed most of the morning and he is famished. When he arrives back at the saloon it is nearly noon and he immediately seeks out Maria for some food and coffee.

After her magic lesson Ruby finds she is hungry so heads downstairs to the Cantina to get some late breakfast / early lunch. Dorita heads right over to Ruby's table. "You never come here!" Ruby smiles and shakes her head. "I know... I know... we don't come by enough... but you love us anyway," she flashes Dorita a dazzling smile. "Could I get something to eat please?" Dorita wags her finger but heads into the kitchen. When Ruby looks up Mr. Gonzales is standing next to her. "You don't mind if I eat with you, do you? You always run off so fast."

"Of course Mr. G. Have a seat." Gonzales grins back at her and sits. They enjoy a pleasant mid morning meal. Gonzales mentions that Kate has something for Ruby to 'practice' with. Ruby furrows her brows but doesn't ask any further questions here in public.

After her leisurely lunch with Mr. Gonzales Ruby hangs around the El Parador waiting for Katherine. Unsure of when she will show up she instead decides to return to the Lucky Lady to wait for a familiar face. She wants to practice her new spell out of town but wants someone to accompany her.

As she walks she notices the huge influx of people and flurry of activity so she takes her time walking, listening to the crowds of excited people talking. When she looks up she is standing outside of a huge area of tents where goods are being set up. She curiously looks around checking out the wares. She reminds herself to make time tomorrow to do some shopping before turning herself in the direction of the Lucky Lady to wait.

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter 209, “Sir. Charles Sterling’s Traveling Retail Emporium”, Friday, March 31st , 1882, 8:30 AM

A caravan consisting of thirty horse-drawn and oxen-drawn wheeled vehicles arrive in town. Twenty-two of these turn off of the main road around 150 feet north of Sierra Street while the remaining eight head on into town. These eight it turns out are people coming to the fair who chose to ride alongside the larger group for safety.

The main caravan heads west to a four-acre rectangular area that starts 100-feet north of behind the buildings on Sierra. Eighteen of these vehicles are fair-sized wagons loaded to overflowing with goods. The other four vehicles consist of three buggies and an older model Concord Coach. Each vehicle also is towing additional horses or oxen, enough so that all beasts of burden can be rotated for fresh ones. They stop just before some stakes and ropes. This land belongs to Elton Hubbard, who earlier in the week had marked off with stakes and ropes this rectangular section running parallel to Sierra Street and where Fremont, Allen and Front Streets end.

Hubbard soon gets word that the caravan has arrived and heads up to greet the caravan leader, a tall-thin man with a British Accent riding in a fancy horse drawn single-seat buggy. The remainder of the caravan occupants consist of two-dozen humans, all who look to be between twenty and thirty years of age. Also with them are two male ogres, three male half-orcs and a female halfling. All twenty-five humans are attractive and appear to be in excellent physical shape and dressed in comfortable work clothes, with the woman wearing pants rather than dresses. The other six also look to be the equivalent of those ages of their own races, and also attired in work clothes.

The wagons pull into the roped off area and a beehive of activity. Metal piping is removed from one wagon and the eight-to-ten foot long sections are fitted together to form two thirty-foot high flagpoles where are dropped into holes dug into the ground by the ogres twenty-five feet apart and secured with ropes. A United States flag is raised to the top of one and a British flag to the top of the other. A five-foot high and twenty-five foot wide banner is the hoisted up the poles and pulled taunt beneath the flags. In elaborate red, white and blue lettering the flag reads “Sir. Charles Sterling’s Traveling Retail Emporium”.

Most of the individuals all begin unloading and erecting canvas tents of various sizes while two of the humans and the half-orcs ride a wagon full of wooden and metal buckets west to Pine Creek. Another two humans assist the orges in erecting some portable metal fencing on the northwestern end of the area where they then corral most of the horses and oxen.

Five metal bathtubs of various sizes that have been nested together are then unloaded and placed into a pair of eight-foot square tents as the bucket wagon returns and the men start to fill the tubs. Several trunks are also offloaded from a wagon into the same two tents.

This activity continues for another hour. Most of the wagons have sides that fold down into shelves to display goods and once they are where the leader wants them the horses and oxen are unhitched, the wheels blocked, and a canvas tent then is erected around it. The remaining wagons are also unloaded of their goods and then moved over to the northern end of the roped off area where they are parked alongside the Concord Coach and the three buggies.

Once each wagon area is all set up the individuals head over to the two bath tents, one for men the other for women. Each reappears ten to fifteen minutes later attired in very nice clothing appropriate to their gender. Curiously, each item of clothing be it dresses, jewelry, shoes, belts, suits, shirts, pants, suspenders, hats and wigs all have the price tags still hanging from them. A few signs are then put up around the encampment reading "Attire currently being modeled will be include free laundering".

It soon appears that nearly everything present in the encampment can be purchased as oversized price tags are fixed upon every vehicle, animal, fencing, flagpoles, trunk and container. Once every member of the company is bathed and attired in fine clothing, including the orcs and ogres, the water in the tubs is drained using faucets and rubber tubing, the tubs are scrubbed out, and prices attached to them as well.

While all of the activity has been going on Elton Hubbard, his clerk Earl Hogan, and Merchant's Association President Burton Lumley have been paying visits to all of the Promise City Merchants. In order to help dispel resentment towards their new short-term competitors each merchant is informed that the Emporium will not open to the general public until 2:00 PM and that prior to that only the town's merchants will be allowed to purchase comparable items to those which they sell themselves, and at a ten-percent discount.

Each Promise City Merchant is given a stamped slip of paper with their own type of business listed and told that only those items can be purchased from the Emporium in advance. Niles Hoover is given a slip reading "Alcohol and Spirits". Kate, Sonoma and Nanuet are each given a slip reading "Horses and Livestock".

The Caravan's Leader, Sir Charles Sterling, has set up a wagon with the sign reading "Sterling's Sterling - Jewelry, Watches and other Finely Made Items". He has for sale decorative pocket watches with various illustrations of places, animals, flowers, deities and ships with prices ranging from $ 7 to $ 36; Vest chains $ 4 to $ 21; Pens $ 1.25 to $ 3.00; Canes with fancy heads and tips $ 4 to $ 25; Jewelry chains $ .50 to $ 5; Silver nail files, combs, hand-held mirrors, and brushes $ 2 to $ 18 each; assorted rings, bracelets and necklaces from $ 1 to $ 100; field glasses (binoculars) $ 7 to $ 18; spy glasses (telescopes) $ 3 to $ 20; two microscopes $ 15 and $ 20; eyeglasses $ 1 to $ 3; Compasses $ 1 to $ 4; a Surveyors Compass $ 40; wall clocks $ 4 to $ 30; desk clocks $ 2 to $ 25; metal boxes $ 1 to $ 20; and several pairs of gold plated dentures for $ 10 to $ 25.

The next merchant has a sign reading "Doctor Bernard Fowler - Elixirs for All Ailments". He has hundreds of bottles labeled for nearly every possible ailment including headaches, colds, coughs, feminine complication, worms, obesity, and diphtheria. He also sells various soaps ranging from three-cents to $ 1 a bar.

Next to Doctor Fowler is "Brett Saunder's Spirits", which is filled with nearly fifty cases of alcohol, each box labeled for a different type. He also sells tobacco in 10-pound drums for 27-cents to $ 1.50;

The next wagon has a sign reading "Douglas and Patricia Monroe - Metals Items". Most of the wagon has pots, pans, bowls and metal serving plates. But also on the wagon are various musical instruments including Harmonicas for $ 1 to $ 3; Trombones from $ 9 to $ 20; Cornets from $ 9 to $ 23; Fifes from $ 1 to $ 3; Piccolos from $ 1 to $ 4; Flutes from $ 3 to $ 15; and a Tuba for $ 34.

Three separate wagons tended by a human and the three half-orcs have the sign "Clarke Whitaker - Tools". On his first two wagons he has every possible hand tool one could think of, including files, drills, planes, screwdrivers, pliers, saws, scissors, shovels, picks, hoes, rakes, pitchforks all with prices ranging from as low as twenty-cents for the smallest chisel to $ 12 for the largest two-man saw. He also has grinding wheels for $ 4; emery wheels from $ 2 to $ 4; anvils from $ 1 to $ 3; and coffee grinders from $ 2 to $ 18. On the final wagon he has some more exotic items including a typewriter for $ 23; several bicycles with a large wheel in front and small wheel behind from $ 8 to $ 20; tennis rackets from $ 1 to $ 4; baseball mitts from $ 1 to $ 3; metal catcher's masks from $ 1 to $ 3; fishing rods from $ 1 to $ 4; fishing reels from $ 1 to $6; and a portable forge for $ 75.

Under the sign "Sam Torrey - Musical Instruments" is a wagon filled with dozens of guitars $ 6 to $ 23; banjos $ 3 to $ 8; Mandolins $ 3 to $ 6; autoharps/zithers $ 3 to $ 12; accordions $ 7 to $ 20; and violins $ 3 to $ 20. He also has a shelf of sheet music for sale from $ .10 to $ 1.00 each.

The next wagon is "Tyrill Salisbury - Books" and features several hundred books organized by category. Most books sell for $ 1 to $ 3. A set of encyclopedias sells for $ 15; He also has two shelves of blank books labeled 'stationary' that sell for $ .50 to $ 2 each depending upon thickness. Lastly, he has a bookcase filled with rolls and rolls of paper wallpaper selling for 10-cents a roll.

The next wagon reads "Bradley Jacobs - Weapons". He has Winchester rifles for $ 10 to $ 27; Remington shotguns from $ 30 to $ 50; Spencer rifles from $ 5 to $ 30; all types of revolvers from $ 5 to $ 35; over 100 knives from $ .25 to $ 5; swords ranging from $ 3 to $ 25. He also sells duck decoys from $ 2 to $ 6; bird call whistles from $ .50 to $ 1; and a full suit of English Hunting Clothes for $ 25.

The next three wagons are the two clothing merchants, the signs reading "Alexander Kotowski and Septhany Nonovik - Clothing". Clothing of nearly every type imaginable can be found on these wagons.

"Duncan Willey - Tents and Tarps" is in front of one of the larger canvas tents. Various canvas tarps are sitting inside of the tent.

"Gerald and Donna Atwood - Hats and Wigs" is next, with fur hats, straw hats, fedoras, derbies, silk top hats; wigs of all lengths and colors; and toupees. Prices range from $ .25 for a clip on woman's hairpieces to $ 10 for a full woman's wig; men's hats from $ .50 to $ 10; women's hats from $ 1 to $ 25.


Next is "Sydhie Tyler - Chairs and Blankets". The female halfling is there selling cloth and rope hammocks from $ 1 to $ 4; folding wood and cloth chairs from $ 1 to $ 3; and blankets of all types and sizes from $ 1 to $ 35.

Beyond that is "Marc & Florence LaBrecque - Glassware" Featured here are glass dining sets from $ 6 to $ 20; various other glass objects including pitchers, platters, bowls, and candleholders from $ 1 to $ 15. Also for sale here are window glass from $ 2 to $ 6 a pane; door glass from $ 4 to $ 20 based upon the size and etching; and mirrors of various sizes ranging from $ 1 to $ 20 with the exception of an elaborate 4 x 10 foot mirror with wooden frame selling for $ 75.

"Isaac Christopher Taylor - Conveyances" is set up over by the vehicles, with the door of the Concord Coach open to show off the fancy interior. The coach has a $ 500 price tag on it; plain wagons sell for $ 100 to $ 300; the sales wagons with the collapsible sides sell for $ 200 to $ 400; the two single-seat buggies have prices of $ 125 and $ 150; the double-seat buggy has a $ 200 price tag; also for sale are leather buggy seats without the benches for $ 5 to $ 23 and buggy tops from $ 23 to $ 45.

The two ogres are set up by the animals. One sign reads "Gnort - Oxen" the other sign reads "Noah 'Grunt' O'Connor - Horses". Prices range from $ 20 to 150 per animal with the exception of one horse, that looks to be a racing horse, with a $ 500 price tag on it.

After her leisurely lunch with Mr. Gonzales Ruby hangs around the El Parador waiting for Katherine. Unsure of when she will show up she instead decides to return to the Lucky Lady to wait for a familiar face. She wants to practice her new spell out of town but wants someone to accompany her.

As she walks she notices the huge influx of people and flurry of activity so she takes her time walking, listening to the crowds of excited people talking. When she looks up she is standing outside of a huge area of tents where goods are being set up. She curiously looks around checking out the wares. She reminds herself to make time tomorrow to do some shopping before turning herself in the direction of the Lucky Lady to wait.

Kate tells the O’Hara girls "I'll stop by and see your mother later in the day when I have some time to go out to the ranch. Then we can go out and take a look at what horses might suit you. I'll see you in a little while," she smiled and went into the kitchen were she had seen Sonoma earlier. "Sonoma, would you like to go with me over to the Lucky Lady? We should fetch Ruby for a lesson."

Sonoma brushed her hands clean and came along. They made a detour over to the hardware store so Kate could ask Sandra Wainwright to give her a hand on Saturday with the children. Once her help was secured, they walked curiously near the new wagons that had rolled in that morning and discussed whether they wanted to buy any stock or not with the papers they had both received that morning.

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter 210, “Searching for Aphrodite’s Priestess”, Friday, March 31st , 1882, 11:30 A.M.

After spending time with Deputy Marshall Barker learning the finer points of rapid shoot at different targets, Jake heads back to the Lucky Lady. The unexpected interruptions have passed most of the morning and he is famished. When he arrives back at the saloon it is nearly noon and he immediately seeks out Maria for some food and coffee.

Not long thereafter Ruby arrives at the Lucky Lady and finds Jake devouring a plate of food. She sneaks up behind him and puts her hands over his eyes. "Guess who?" she whispers, letting her lips touch his ear as she speaks. He replies, "As if I wouldn't know the sensual touch of those hands, the brush of those full lips, the scent of your perfume or your angel like voice whispering in my ear." Jake drops the fork from his hand. "Besides, if it was anyone else, Ruby would have shot her by now."

"And that's why I love you baby." Ruby gives him a wet kiss on his neck before sliding onto his lap. "Mr. G. taught me a new skill,: Ruby says raising an eyebrow, "I need to go practice. Will you come along?" "I'd be happy too. Where are we going?" Jake replies as he spots Minerva in the doorway. Ruby says, "Out of town, our normal spot is fine."

It is now noon and Minerva walks into the Lucky Lady with Luna perched on her shoulder. She observes the scene between Jake and Ruby for a moment and walks over. “Hola, mi amigos. Senor Jake may I have a word when you are not busy, por favor." She turns to Ruby and smiles. "I do not want to interrupt and I think that my stomach can tolerate food now," she says with a mock sick expression. "I will get some lunch for Luna and I and we can talk after. " she says to Jake. He replies, "Si, Senorita in a few minutes."

Minerva finds a seat far away from Jake and Ruby to give them privacy. Jake asks, "Ruby, what is she talking about. What is wrong with her stomach?" Ruby answers, "I don't know, why don't you ask her? She wants to talk to you anyway..."

Minerva orders a light lunch of grapes, cheese and bread, unable to stomach much more after last night’s adventure and the awful tasting tea that Ruby gave her that morning, and inquires as to Nanuet’s whereabouts. “Si, Priestess he is outback unloading wine for the festival.” A smile lights up her face “Por favor, tell him to join me for lunch and could you please provide enough cheese and bread for the two of us? and a little plate of meat for Luna. Oh, and add two glasses of whiskey to the order, por favor.”

Nanuet comes out shortly after. “Hello Luna,” he says scratching her between the shoulders. “What is all this, my Sweet Desert Flower?” He leans over to take in her scent and kisses her before he takes a seat opposite and eagerly begins devouring the food before him.

Minerva’s eyes sparkle in amusement. “I thought that perhaps you would be feeling poorly after last night, mi amor, but I am obviously the only one suffering here. Perhaps I said yes one time too many?” she laughs as she holds her aching head. “How can you eat like that? My stomach feels like it is filled with Mexican jumping beans! And some of them have taken residence up in my head. I thought that perhaps the whiskey would help.” she says picking up her glass to sip.

"Thanks" he says and grabs the glass to sip while continuing to shovel the food in. He looks up at her with twinkling eyes, talking with his mouth full. “YES too many times? Oh no my sweet, the last YES was the best one of all!” he winks and goes back to his meal while she watches on in astonishment at his savage style. Eventually he slows down and they spend their lunch time with their heads together teasing and talking the sweet nonsense of a couple in the throes of new love.

Kate and Sonoma arrived at the Lucky Lady where Ruby was sitting having a drink. Kate went over and hugged her friend. "Good morning, Ruby. How would you feel about lessons? Our friend has something ready for us." Ruby reaches up and hugs her back. "Lessons? What kind of lessons? Jake and I were going to head out of town so I can do some practicing..." As Ruby speaks to Katherine and Nanuet heads back to work, Jake takes a seat at Minerva's table.

Kate sat down close to Ruby so she could keep her voice low. "Our scrolls are ready. The ones to dispel Ringo's advantage. He wants us to come learn how to use them. I have used that particular tool once before, and Sonoma has on several occasions, but you haven't. I think he wants to have you practice with the scroll and the rest of us become familiar with it." Ruby answers, "Oh? Do we need him to show us how to do it then?"

Kate replies, “It's not a spell any of us knows, so yes. Do you think you'll have time sometime today?" Ruby shrugs. "Sure, I guess so. Now or later, either way. Have to be back early tonight, I'm sure we will be packed and I need to take extra time getting ready. I spend the morning practicing with him already. Funny he didn't mention it."

Jake asks Minerva, "What is it you need, Senorita?" She replies, "When Nanuet and I went to see Kajika, he told us that a priestess of Aphrodite was working to control the people in town. Katherine said that the High priest in Greece said basically the same thing. I must talk to this priestess and set her straight. She is distracting the people and upsetting the balance of power. I have nothing against love, but her meddling is doing more harm than good.

Now, I am sure that once I point out the error of her ways that she will gladly work with us to defeat Mars and Johnny Ringo since Aphrodite and he are on opposite sides of this war, but I do not know who she is. I think that Ruby knows more than what she is telling and I do not think that she will reveal the name of this priestess. I would not expect you to tell your lover's secrets but She could be in danger, Senor Jake and she DID tell me to ask you..."

"Why would she not tell you the name of the priestess?" Jake suddenly looks troubled. "She told you to ask me who the priestess was?" "Not exactly" she says fingering the charm that Kajika gave her, "but when I asked her about the adult entertainment that she is going to be performing in she said that I should ask you about it. Do you think that she is involved with this priestess? We must find out who she is. We do not have much time." she pleads "I have a sore feeling that the war of the gods is approaching quickly. I do not have time to play games with Ruby, You must tell me what you suspect before it is too late."

"I have not met this so called priestess, though I could probably locate her. You think that Ruby won't tell you because she is playing a game?" Jake looks rather sternly at Minerva, "You should choose your words more carefully. If you have asked Ruby who is the priestess and she has refused to tell you I can only surmise that she is afraid of what you would do with that knowledge." Jake takes off his hat and throws it on the table. "Something is wrong, I am sure of it. I am not sure what to do about it. I do not doubt your sincerity, Senorita. Neither do I forget the aid and friendship you have offered at no small risk to yourself. However I wonder the outcome when the righteous priestess of Minerva meets the righteous priestess of Aphrodite."

"I am not trying to be righteous. Nor am I trying to prevent anyone from worshiping their gods or goddesses. But from what I am told that is exactly what this priestess is doing. she must be fairly powerful, also. She was able to keep me from hearing the will of my own Goddess and was forcing me to her own. No one should be forced to do anyone else’s will. It is just plain WRONG! That is why Kajika gave me this charm. But others are not so protected. I am trying to keep Ruby and my friends and the town safe from such coercion.

Are you not willing to do the same? Do you disagree that it is wrong? I can tell that you suspect that she is hiding the truth from you also. That can only meant that she is doing something that she is afraid we will object too. It may be that this priestess is pressuring her into doing something that she is not sure is the right thing to do. I cannot think of any other reason that she would be so evasive with us. You could come with me and speak to this priestess if would make you feel better but somebody has to do something today. We are out of time."

"I agree that no one should be forced to do anyone's will." Jake sighs. "Do you remember when you first discovered you were special to your goddess? What would you have done if someone meddled in that relationship? Ruby believes that her current good fortune is owed to her honoring Aphrodite. That girl has been through Hades and back, and I won't have her faith in a bright future crushed."

He glances across the room to where Ruby is talking with Katherine. Ruby in turn glances over at Jake and Minerva, "I wonder what they are talking about that Minerva couldn't say in front of me." She turns back to Kate, "Anyway, do you want to do it now or later?" "I told him yesterday that I would ask you last night, but you weren't here. He probably thought you already knew. I have quite a few things to do today myself. Why don't we do it later, maybe around 4:00? Then we can all go make ourselves beautiful afterward."

Ruby furrows her brows, watching Minerva hurry out of the saloon. She keeps her eye on priestess, "Sure, 4:00 is fine." She looks back to Kate. "Yeah, that's fine." Kate asks, "Ruby, are you alright? You're a bit distracted." "Um, yes. Sorry. I was just wondering what they were talking about. Minerva has been up to something lately."

She puts her attention back to Kate. "Last night... I got a new dress. Mary made it for me and asked Jake to take me out to dinner so I could tease him with it," Ruby smiles. "I know, I'm so mean to that poor boy. But it worked, it always does." "Ruby dear, no offense to Mrs. Kelley's fine work, but you could ask Jake to take you out to dinner and... other things wearing a burlap sack and it would work. He doesn't need inducement," she said with a laugh. Ruby can't hold back the giggles at Kate's comment. "Still, I like to look good for him."

"I don't know what Miss Florencia and Jake could be talking about. To be honest, I don't really want to think about it. I know it's wrong of me, Miss Florencia has been nothing but helpful and trustworthy, but she is still what she is and I have... difficulties... in allowing myself to trust her."

"I can understand that, after the story you told me. I really think she' up to something and I don't trust her either right now." Ruby shrugs. "Oh well, I have other more important things to worry about." "How about we go see Mr. Gonzales now? I'm curious now how to use the... you know... thing... he's going to teach. Can we go now instead of four?" Katherine laughs, "That's fine Ruby."

At the other table, Minerva sighs in frustration, "That is what I am trying to make sure is NOT going on. I want to be sure that this priestess, with all her good intent, is not interfering with Ruby's relationship with her goddess. Why would I try and keep Ruby from worshiping her Goddess? I am the one who helped her to find her way back to Venus in the first place."

Jake scratches his beard as he considers her words, "I also won't have my friends harmed. I don't have the tangible power of the gods to help me, Senorita. I only have more ordinary tools and I am not afraid to use the ones I have no matter what the risk." Jake taps on the brim of his hat in the center of the table.

"Would you recognize a priestess Senorita if you met one? One of a goddess not far from your own?" Jake scratches his chin before he continues quietly. "In a town like this, if I were looking for a priestess of Aphrodite and there was no visible church I would probably look for the fanciest whorehouse in town. I bet too if you talked to the town Marshall he would tell you that he watched some show last Saturday night after fisticuffs where a woman made a reference to the goddess of love. I believe Deputy Chester Martin was there too."

Jake reaches out and grabs his hat. "I prefer not to search for this alleged priestess myself right now. I am still uncertain of my course. I will not stand for any of you to be harmed though. Cuidese, mi amiga. {take care my friend} Let me know if you need my protection." Jake stands and replaces his hat. His smile seems to be a tired one. "I'd much prefer that to avenging any harm done to you." She can see his smile change quickly from strained and tired to the mischievous look that she is more accustomed to on his face. "Le deseo un día agradable, Senorita." {I wish you a pleasant day}

"Gracias, Senor! Minerva says her face relaxing as relief washes over her. I hope that I do not need to take you up on your offer but be sure that I will if the need arises. She reaches up and kisses him on the cheek. You are a good man Senor Jake, no matter what anybody says," she chuckles. "May the gods keep the wolves in the hill Senor." she says as she quickly departs.

Ruby hops up and tells Kate, "Ok, let me go tell Jake we‘re leaving." She runs over to him and blurts out, "What were you two talking about?" Jake chuckles, "Always have to know everything..." and bops her on the nose. Ruby pouts for two seconds before perking up again. "I'm going to go over to the El Parador with Kate. I'll be back a little later, ok? I'm not sure if I will still need to go out and practice but we'll see afterwards." She kisses Jake then her, Sonoma and Katherine return to the Cantina.

Kate and Ruby stood up and Kate linked her arm through her friends. "As for looking good, I think we girls all like to see a man's jaw drop to the floor now and then, don't we?" When they reached the El Parador Kate waited downstairs for Ginnie to return from her lunch deliveries. Ruby heads up to Gonzales room with Sonoma while Kate fetches Ginnie. Kate spoke a word or two in Ginnie’s ear and the two went upstairs to Mr. Gonzales rooms where Sonoma and Ruby had already gone. "Here we are," Kate said cheerfully, trying to ignore Ginnie's sour face. "I believe you had a lesson for us, Professeur aime?"

Once inside the secret mansion Mr. Gonzales hands out the scrolls and gives then instructions on how to read them effectively. Ginnie's eyes and ears perk up when she realizes she is getting a magic lesson and actually given something magical to hold onto and use. He then has them exit the mansion together and return to the Cantina. He brings them downstairs and out to the stable where he checks to make sure that they are alone.

Mr. Gonzales then instructs Ruby to attempt to use the dispel magic scroll on him. "But how will I know if it worked or not?" she asks curiously. "You'll know," he replies and quickly mutters some words. Suddenly he vanishes from before their eyes. "But I can't see you!" "Ah, but you can hear me and you know where I last was," he says.

"Ok..." Ruby mutters, only slightly hesitant. She begins reading the words on the scroll and 'aims' for the area where Mr. Gonzales was last standing. He reappears, explaining how any magic spells in his vicinity would have ceased to function. He also points out that magical items would stop working while the spell was taking effect, but that their magic would return shortly thereafter.

He also warns them to never attempt to cast Dispel Magic while inside of his magical house, as "The result would be not very good as the dispelled area would cease to exist." Ruby's eyes widen. "I could cast.. I mean I could do something that powerful?" He replies "It is the nature of the house itself. It is carved out of inter-dimensional space, so once it is gone it is gone. The rest of the mansion would remain but there would be a blank void where the area of effect had been." Ruby's eyes widen even more. "Good to know. Oh about that other spell... how long does that one last?"

He replies, "Only right then, although spells are permanently dispelled and usually any magical elixirs caught in the area of effect will also lose any magic potency. Other magic will return to normal once the immediate effect passes." "I meant the one that makes you," she continues in a whisper, "Disappear." He replies, "As long as you want or until you do something to draw physical attention to yourself. Talking alone won't disrupt it, but casting an offensive spell will." "Wow, that's a long time. Well, thanks Mr. G, If that's if for the lesson I should go and practice it so tomorrow I can learn the other part."

Kate looked over at Ruby and smiled. "With what you said about magical items, it seems this spell can cancel more than one magical effect at a time. How much of an area does it cover? Could we cast it on a specific person so the effect moves with him?" He replies, "There are three ways that you can use the spell. It can be focused upon an area of effect up to a thirty-foot radius, or it can be targeted on an individual creature or item, or it can be used as a counter-spell, to negate a very specific spell. I will warn you, it may not always work or the effects could simply be temporary, in the round that it is cast in. However, these scrolls being written as they were will help. The last item that you should know is that these are written so that they can be cast up to 190 feet away from the target or targeted area."

Minerva begins rushing toward the Marshal’s office and abruptly stops to reconsider her actions "What are the chances that I will get shy Deputy Chester to talk to me about some dance that he saw in a whore house? I have a better chance of getting Mrs. King to take off her clothes and dance under the moon." she shakes her head. "Let me think" she looks up and down the street "Now what would Sr. Jake consider to be the fanciest whorehouse in town." She turns on her heel and strides toward the Palace.

Minerva puts on her friendly face and steps into the Palace Saloon. The Palace's bouncer, Prosper McCoy steps out in front of Minerva and says, "After your last visit here Mr. Adair asked that you not be allowed to return." Buenos Dias Senor, Por Favor, I am not here to cause trouble," she says giving him her most charming smile. "I am here to see your Lead dancer could you Please tell her that the Priestess Minerva Garcia Florencia of the Roman Church requests an audience with her?"

McCoy turns the door over to bartender Dave Carleen, telling him "Adair doesn't want this woman inside. I'll be right back." McCoy heads upstairs, soon returning with a woman who Minerva remembers seeing with Adair during her previous Palace visit. The woman heads outside and says "What do you want? Is this about the festival?" “Buenas Dias, No this is not about the festival. Is there someplace we can talk in private?" She smiles. The woman nods her head west and says, "The Silver Dollar Saloon is two doors down, we can get a table there."

The two reach the building which is small and nearly deserted. They sit at one of the tables while a woman approaches, introduces herself as the owner Alice Smith, and asks if they would like anything to eat or drink. The woman from the Palace says, "Yes, a glass of your Sarsaparilla." Minerva recognizes the name of the non-alcoholic drink as it had originated in Spain. Sarsaparilla got its name from two Spanish words: "zarza" and "parilla," referring to the thorny vines of the plant. It had been first introduced into Europe as medicine back in the 1500s.

Minerva also orders a glass of sarsaparilla while studying her companion. "I am sorry I should have introduced myself. My name is Priestess Minerva Garcia Florencia. May I ask your name and are you the lead dancer at the Palace Saloon?" She replies, "Yes, I am the lead dancer, lead singer and lead...well...entertainer at the Palace. My name is Kitty Trent. Now what is it that you wished to talk about? Are you wanting to make an apology to Evan?"

Minerva raises her eyebrow and sips her Sarsaparilla "An apology to who? Oh Senor Adair. No I do not owe him anything. I asked you here to find out what part the Priestess of Aphrodite was going to play in the festival.” Kitty replies, "Oh, the Palace will be honoring Aphrodite, as well as Hermes and Dionysus, as each is the patron deity to the three services that our establishment offers to our customers. I will also be playing flute for the dancers during three of the songs at the festival."

Minerva asks, "Is it the Palace that will be honoring her or the Priestesses of Aphrodite who make their abode there?" Kitty replies, "We will honor all three deities. Even refers to it as honoring those who believe in 'Liquor, Lust and Luck.' This idea of yours should be very good for business." Minerva replies, “Yes well I need to speak with the priestess of Aphrodite before the ceremony to make sure that the gods are honored properly." "Aren't you the Priestess of the Greek Gods?" Kitty asks.

Minerva replies, "Yes I am, and as such, it is my job to be sure that the god's which are to be honored during this festival are worshiped in such a way that none of them will take offense. There are other darker deeds which may transpire also. If you are not the priestess that I seek it would be wise for you to lead me to her." Kitty replies, "I am not aware of who you are speaking of. Three of my dancers previously worked at a Kansas City Brothel that was run by an Aphrodite Priestess but that woman died in a fire there last year."

"Oh, that is sad!" she says in sympathy. "I must speak to them. One of them may be the Priestess that I am looking for. I would appreciate it if you introduced me to them immediately. We are running out of time." Miss Trent replies, "I'm sorry but Mr. Adair left strict orders that you are not to set foot in the Palace again after your last confrontation with him. I will talk to them on your behalf and mention it to them."

Minerva responds with a sense of urgency. "Senorita, Por Favor it is imperative that you convince them to speak with me. The people of Promise city are in danger and I need their help. When you speak to them tell them that Venus has spoken to me in a dream and I must discuss it with them. I will walk you back to the Palace and wait outside while you relay my message."

They walk back to the Palace. Kitty heads inside. Minerva waits for nearly a half hour until Miss. Trent returns. She tells Minerva "They're not the one you’re looking for. I would suggest that you maybe try either the Gay Lady or the Long Branch." Minerva looks into her eyes "Are you certain?" "Si, Priestess, I am certain." Senorita Trent responds sincerely batting an eye.

"Gracias," Minerva says the smile leaving her face. " Stay safe Senorita Trent, and pray that this evil does not find it's way to your doorstep.""She is lying to me. "I will not find help here she thinks. The disheartened priestess, lost in thought, does not even notice the caravan of wagons, brightly showing off their wares as she finds her way back to the Comstock House.

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter 211, “Shopping and Crowds“, Friday, March 31st , 1882, 1:00 P.M.

As it is after lunch time and Jake figures Conrad should be finished his first meal of the day, whatever he chooses to call it. Jake wanders over to Conrad's home and enquires about the costumes that he had sent for. "Now what do you have for me in that trunk of yours?" Jake asks "Here is the closest thing to what you asked for." Conrad holds it up, turns it and hands it to Jake.

"Oh." He looks at it a moment and holds it not too close and if it was going to bite him. "This isn't exactly what I expected. What else do you have?" "You are welcome to look through the trunk." Jake rummages through the costume trunk and ignores Conrad's obvious enjoyment of Jake's discomfort. "This is the reason I didn't become an actor. Well, that and lack of any talent." Jake scratches the back of his head. "I'm grateful for the loan, I am really stuck without it. I guess I'll take it. Let's see what I can wear with it, if I am going to feel like an fool I might as well go all the way......"

Jake thanks him again, bundles up the outfit and makes his way back to his room where he hides it in one of his travel bags. "I'm not going unarmed but my regular holsters couldn't possibly work with that," he says to himself. He quickly makes his way to the leather shop and purchases a fairly standard gun belt with two holsters on it, testing to make sure it will ride high enough to be concealed from view. He brings that back to the room and stows it with the costume.

Jake then spends the next hour practicing some tricks he hasn't used in a while, tricks he learned that first summer after he fled Philadelphia. Memories of that summer in Ohio creep back while he practices, some are fond memories others not so fond. He's certain that the children will enjoy at least some of this. He then returns to the main room of the Lucky Lady and chats with Niles and Harry.

At the El Parador, Gonzales spends the next half-hour telling each of the women about scrolls, how the advantages to using them are first that no hand gestures are required and secondly that they are cast at the wizardry level of the creator rather than the caster, so that each of their scrolls will function as though he had cast it rather than them.

He cautions them to be careful of using spells that they do not know the creator of, particularly with offensive spells, as words are often written into the incantations to prevent them from being used against their creators. Lastly he teaches them how to conceal scrolls in books and on objects, giving each of the four women not only the scroll but a small container of a sticky adhesive to affix the scroll to other objects if needed. Ruby gives Gonzales a kiss on the cheek, then bounces off to the Lucky Lady to find Jake.

Ginnie settles with her code notebook and scribes down all of the directions and information that Mr. Gonzalas had given them in relationship to the scroll. She then turns to him and asks quietly "I believe that the ability to become invisible may be my best emergency protection. Is there a possibility that you could teach me that ability? If they can't see me they can't kill me." Her eyes were wide waiting for a response she expected to be told no that she wasn't ready however it was worth a shot. Kate states, "I'll suggest that to her the next time I see her. Everything we can do to make our tools less conspicuous is good."

He replies, "I'm sorry Ginnie, but you are not powerful enough in the practice of wizardry to learn that yet." He notes a look of disappointment in her immediate reaction, which she quickly changes to a more neutral face. He adds, "However, if you find the need for that particular spell please come to me and I will be happy to cast it onto you."

Kate asks, "Is there something else she could learn to help distract people from her? Some of the first spells you taught me created sounds or light that might move attention away from her." Ginnie sees that her teacher is ensuring that he knows when she is non-visible and realizes that she is going to have to do quite a bit of self research in order to be able to cast the spell.

She nods to her teacher and heads into the corner that she has created for herself to spend more time with the books Her ego bruised the stubborn Irish temperament that saved her during the time on the streets emerges in her head. "So I don't have the experience, of course I don't because no one will let me work on anything except coping and translating books! It's time to start taking some chances and practicing on my own. 1 spell at a time somewhere I can be alone. I'll get the power I need and no one can stop me."

Kate talked quietly to her teacher while Ginnie busied herself with the books. "Can you find something to teach her today? Just to take the sting out? A love of those simple spells are fairly useful. I'd like to stay, but... I have a few things to do yet this afternoon, and I don't really think she wants me here anyway. You'll keep an eye on her, won't you?"

Kate says, "Thank you, Professeur. I feel safer already. It's a good thing we can use these from far away, I'd rather negate them before they get close. I will have to think of an object I usually carry with me to affix this to." Kate says, "I should go as well. I have some last minute things to do this afternoon." Kate dropped her voice and said, "I hate to ask, but could we go upstairs and fetch the wand? I feel a little exposed without it. I certainly could have used it on Monday." He replies, "Oh yes, let's go get it. I taught Ruby how to use it as well. She also has that magical fireball rod, although it is rather conspicuous being thirty inches long. She may want to see if Pierre can fix a gun stock onto it to make it appear to be some type of shotgun."

Kate talked quietly to her teacher while Ginnie busied herself with the books. "Can you find something to teach her today? Just to take the sting out? A lot of those simple spells are fairly useful. I'd like to stay, but... I have a few things to do yet this afternoon, and I don't really think she wants me here anyway. You'll keep an eye on her, won't you?" Gonzales replies, "Yes, I think that teaching Ginnie some more cantrips would be an excellent idea. I also have in mind another introductory spell that could be of use for her."
Kate took the wand and slipped it into her pocket, then left Ginnie in her teacher's excellent care. Perhaps after the festival she could teach Ginnie a few cantrips herself. She was familiar enough with those to teach them, at least she thought she was.

Ruby arrives at Lucky Lady to find Jake. "Baby I decided I want to go shopping now instead of tomorrow!" "As you wish, Princess," Jake replies with a smile. Ruby claps her hands and runs upstairs to get some additional money. Ruby excitedly drags Jake along for some shopping, perusing the stalls slowly, chatting with everyone and anyone who looks her way.

Ruby purchases a silver hand held mirror and brush from Sterling’s Sterling, plus a bracelet for Katherine and a matching one in a smaller size for Ginnie. When Jake isn't looking she purchases something for him and asks that it be engraved, to be delivered to the Lucky Lady when it's finished. From Fowler’s she buys soap, some plain and some specially scented.

She spends a good amount of time at Tyrill Salsbury’s tent, buying up rolls of wallpaper for the new addition to the Saloon. For the Lucky Lady a wall clock from Sterling’s and the 10X4 foot wooden framed mirror for behind the bar from Marc & Florence LaBrecque’s – glassware tent. From Sydhie Tyler Ruby buys a hanging porch swing.

Finally she makes Jake inquire about the nicest bathtub they have and also has it delivered to the Lucky Lady. She peruses the jewelry but oddly she doesn't find anything that can compare to her heart earrings or the ruby ring that rests on her finger. She does find some new clothes and boots to add to her wardrobe. She makes one final stop where she purchases a sword for her lessons.

Laden with purchases they make their way back to the Lucky Lady. Once back they go up to their room. Ruby tells Jake about her lessons with Mr. Gonzales. Then she carefully shows him her new skill by first making herself invisible, then making him invisible. Her first attempt at herself takes a little effort but by the time she gets to Jake she seems to have it down Jake laughs and follows the giggles to locate Ruby. He gropes at her and says, "This is definitely weird."

"Weird... but useful..." she says as Jake feels a pinch at his butt followed by another round of giggles. "Figure out how to use this. Tomorrow Mr. Gonzales is going to show me how to see invisible people and things. That is why I have to practice." After some more giggles and fun with being invisible Ruby says the word Jake has heard before and they both become visible again. "You ready?" Jake asks Ruby, "To go and practice shooting?" "Yup, I don't need to do anything special."

Jake puts on an old shirt and grabs up all his weapons for some target practice. Before going down stairs he carefully removes the special shells from the long barrel Colt, folds them into a piece of paper and puts them into a pocket he can button closed. He loads ordinary shells into that pistol. On the way out he grabs a burlap sack and fills it full of empty bottles from the trash.

They dodge though mobs of people to get to the Cantina and decide to walk their horses out of town instead of ride them. "I'd like to do some shopping tomorrow, will you come with me?" Ruby asks as they walk. "Sure. I'll go with you. Seems like those folks brought in everything imaginable."

Once they get to the edge of town they hop on their horses and rid out to their normal spot. Jake does a through check of the surrounding area before letting his guard down slightly and starts setting up. Jakes takes the empty whiskey bottles he gathered up from the saloon and places them firmly in the nooks made by the large cactus so there are some on each side and somewhat spread out. He walks and stops with his back to his targets. He thinks hard about what Red, Wyatt and Helen have showed him.

Without any warning he grabs for his Colt whirls and fans off two shots. He stands there for several moments staring at the unbroken bottles. "Damn." Is all he says. He tries twice more with the same result. Frustrated, he drops the spent cartridges out of the gun and reloads in silence. He reholsters his pistol and walks over to Ruby. "I'm thinking too hard about this." The grabs her and gives her a long kiss. He starts to release her and instead gives her another. He grins, "That was nice." He turns and walks back towards the cactus saying, "I have to feel it, not think it....."

Out flashes the Colt and the shots come fast, two at a time. Left and right the top of the lowest two whiskey bottles disappear. Right and left the bottoms of those same two bottles shatter and fall. Left and right again, more glass shatters. The Colt spins in his hand and is holstered. Without another word his long barreled Colt is cross drawn and fired, the same two shots at a time. One after another, the rest of the whiskey bottles shatter and fall.

While Jake is practicing his gun Ruby is going over and over in her mind everything that Mr. Gonzales and Madge has taught her. She practices casting some minor spells, throwing small rocks around with one, making little lights with another. She concentrates on Jake while he is shooting until she can see the magic surrounding his duster. She mutters a few words and a couple of small lizards fall over, asleep. After she is done with her own practicing she sits on a nearby rock and prepares her gun.

Next Jake tears the limbs off the cactus with shots from his shot gun. It is quite easy to pull off two shots with it, but the same care is taken to make them accurate. Lastly, he works with his Spencer Rifle doing the same to some saguaro cactus in the distance. Since it is a seven shot, he tries to rapidly fire the last three each time with no success. "I guess I'll settle for rapidly firing off two for now."

He sets the rifle on the rock and approaches Ruby. He stops just in front of her with his hands on his hips. She can smell the acrid smell of burnt gunpowder, can see the smudges on his hands and tiny burn marks on his right sleeve near the wrist, he even has a smudge of gunpowder residue across his forehead. None of that detracts from the grin on his face as he stares at her. "I got it. I got it right," is all he says.

Ruby smiles at Jake, so proud and sure of himself. He always looks the most handsome when he is sure of himself. She stands and steps towards him, wiping at the smudge at his forehead. "Good job, baby. You make using that gun look pretty sexy. That's of course if you're not standing on the other end of it." Jake laughs. Then he laughs harder. "All this time I was missing out on another way to attract women. Good thing I already got mine," He says and winks at her.

Next Jake helps Ruby improve her own shooting. She practices taking better aim while moving around until she feels like she has improved a bit. "You know, I need a better spot to keep my gun. My current spot is good for emergencies but not for fast drawing. Maybe I should keep it in the back of my skirt? Or maybe my boot? What do you think?"

"The boot isn't going to be good for fast draw." He looks at her and scratches his beard and then rubs his cheek. "Think of the sleight of hand trick. Put it in a spot where one hand can reach it naturally looking while the other hand distracts. Somewhere on the skirt seems better."

It looks like they are done shooting practice when Jake says to Ruby “Throw me that revolver.” She frowns, walks over and hands it to him. He doesn’t take it. “No I meant it. Go back and throw me that revolver. Imagine I’m standing somewhere without a gun and you have an extra or you don’t have the shot. Imagine anything, just throw me the gun.”

“What if I goes off and you shoot yourself?” Ruby asks. “That’s why we practice,” Jake responds rolling his eyes. “Ok…” Ruby says and hesitantly throws Jake the gun. Jake walks the gun back over to Ruby, looks her in the eye and says gently, “Look, imagine my life depends on you throwing me that gun. It’s better to practice it and hope we never need it, then need it and not be able to do it.” Ruby nods. Jake stands back again and this time Ruby throws him the gun and he catches it. "You too." He says and throws the gun to her. They continue to practice back and forth until the movements are sure and smooth; catch to proper grip ready to fire. "I hope that doesn't come in handy this weekend but why do I have the feeling it will?" Jake replies, "I was thinking the same thing."

Kate took the wand and slipped it into her pocket, then left Ginnie in her teacher's excellent care. Perhaps after the festival she could teach Ginnie a few cantrips herself. She was familiar enough with those to teach them, at least she thought she was.

She stopped in her room and saw a large trunk sitting in the middle of the floor with a note on top.

Since you have not come to the costumes, the costumes have come to you. Let Pedro know when you're finished and he'll see the trunk is returned to me.

Conrad

Katherine opened the trunk with a smile and began to search through it. She pulled out gown after beautiful gown; most with elaborate beadwork or embroidery. And almost every one far too large for her. A few almost fit, but not close enough to be able to make any kind of alterations in time. She was nearly at the bottom of the trunk when she pulled out a dress that must have been part of the play about the Trojan War. It was pristine white and accented with gold, and attached was a small bag of jewelry meant to go with the costume. Like the others it was a bit big, but this one could be easily adjusted.

In her reflection Kate could see how she would look once it was adjusted and she styled her hair. Somehow it felt scandalous, even though she really showed more on the bottom when she wore pants for riding. The costume certainly showed more on the top. "It's the only one that will fit," she said, trying to excuse herself. A few minutes later the costume was carefully hung in her closet and the trunk repacked. She dressed in her riding clothes and went down to the Cantina, asking Pedro to see the trunk was returned with her thanks. Then Grant Keebler escorted her over to the O'Hara house.

The O'Hara house, small as it was, was the epitome of space efficiency. How one woman could fit seven people and all of their possessions into two small rooms and make it still look spacious was something to believe. Every available space, especially those not obvious, was utilized. Meagan O'Hara was inside with the two youngest children, the next eldest five further east doing something over along practicing some of the children's games. Both Colleen and Cathleen notice Kate going to visit their mother.

"I hope I'm not interrupting anything," Kate said, settling herself in a chair. "Colleen and Cathleen came by today asking about borrowing some horses for the races tomorrow. I certainly don't mind, but I wanted to check with you before I made any promises. I told them, with your permission, that I would take them out to the ranch to choose some mounts. They told me you already knew about their racing, which I don't doubt," she said with a smile. "But it still seemed right to check first."

Meagan says, "Well, they appear to have exaggerated a bit. They raced before at the University, back when they were six and seven, against college students. But those were all practice races to help hone the student's skills. Since coming to America they've raced once, a little over two years ago. Patrick and I were away for a week, arranging schooling for Shannon and we had left them with their Uncle Timothy as he worked at a racetrack and we knew how much they adored horses. Timothy entered them in a competitive race against adults, which Patrick and would not have approved of. He hoped to make it rich, and was somewhat successful as Colleen actually finished third.

So I am neither giving them permission or saying no. My concerns are first the fact that it has been a few years since they've ridden, during which time their bodies have begun to change so they may not have the same dexterity. Secondly, I do not know the horses. I would only want them to ride animals with the proper temperament. I do know that they are anxious to do this. They wish to earn enough money to purchase a spinning wheel for me."

Kate says, "That's very sweet of them. I'm surprised though, that you don't have one already.” Meghan answers, "I had one over in Ireland but had to sell it before we left as we were limited in the quantity that we could bring for passage. I has always planned to buy another one here but each time we didn't have the money for it or there was one available that I could borrow so it wasn't a necessity."

Kate says, “Well, if they borrow horses from me I can make certain the horses are of even temperament. They could borrow Meribel, the horse I ride for everyday. She's a very gentle but responsive animal. There are a couple others out at the ranch I would trust. Let us do this. I'll go out to the ranch this afternoon and bring the horses I'd trust into town. Tomorrow morning you and I can put the girls and the horses through their paces, and if we are comfortable we can let them race. What do you think?" Meghan answers, "I think that is a fine idea."

When Kate returned to the El Parador she went back to her room to get dressed for work. The red dress she had bought from Mary Kelley was hanging there, and she would no longer need it for tomorrow night. But it should be warn, especially since it wouldn't fit for that long in the first place. Well, it was likely to be a big night at the Lucky Lady. Kate squeezed herself into the dress, then pulled most of her hair up, leaving only a few long curls to hang over her shoulder.

Ruby and Jake head back to town and have a quick dinner, which they have to do at the bar since their Saloon is packed full of people. Ruby then hurries upstairs and dons her green gown. She makes herself presentable and prepared for the evening ahead she sweeps downstairs with a smile and starts interacting with the crowd.

A rather angry looking Al Brower comes into the Lucky Lady and heads directly to the bar rather than to Job Kane's table. "Whiskey!" he rather loudly exclaims. Harry Rote pours him one. Ruby walks behind the bar and takes the bottle from Harry. "I'll take care of Mr. Brower, Harry. Thank you." She smiles at Al, "Not having a good day?" she asks, pushing the whiskey towards him.

Al says, "No, damn it! The Comique is packed, mobbed, even more crowded than here. Normally we don't serve food, but Pierre and I hired our landlady, Hannah Milford at the Double Eagle Boarding House, to cook for the saloon the next four days. So we have this large dinner crowd and I had Clarisse start singing then, and they've stuck around. I looked to probably be the best night we've ever had, and then HE showed up!" Ruby looks at him curiously while refilling Al's glass. "Care to share who is he?"

Brower exclaims, "Cornelius Van Horne! I thought he was gone for good. He used to clean us out every Friday night. Well, it's Friday night and he's back! Damn It!" Ruby's eyes widen again. "Oh wow." She glances around the saloon for Jake. "Mr. Brower, I'm sure that your crowd is so large that even Mr. Van Horne couldn't take away your profits. Is there anything I can do for you? I should also get on stage." Brower nods no sullenly before Ruby heads to the stage. She sings a good mix of songs and as the crowd grows she sticks with more upbeat and crowd pleasing tunes.

Jake starts up his game and announces it will be stud poker for a while to accommodate more at the table. He keeps his eyes open to what is going on around the room. After her first set Ruby continues to happily interact with customers, joking and flirting with them. At one point she passes Jake's table and motions for him to meet her when he has his next break.

Several men in Jake's game go bust early, apparently having a small stake. He breaks early, "This will be a short one, so don't go far. We'll introduce some new money when we start back up." He goes to find Ruby. He finds her out on the porch. Normally she is watching the stars but tonight she is watching the mobs of people walking on the streets.

Jake walks out and she motions for him to hug her, which he does. As he wraps his arms around her she whispers in his ear, "Mr. Van Horne is back in town." Jake pulls back only a bit and looks her in the eye. "Really! That's great!" He picks her up by the waist and spins her around once before putting her back down. "Now you can meet HIM for real!" The smile drops from his face. "No, probably not. Too risky with all these people around." Jake sighs, "It is good to know he is OK though."

Ruby giggles as Jake swings her around. She clutches at his neck tightly and grins at the brief moment of happiness that flashes across his face. "I'd like to, if we can arrange it." She pushes some hair off his forehead, "I thought you'd like to know. Brower says he's at the Comique." She pauses then her grin grows, "And this time you don't need to get jealous if he stops by and I share a drink with him."

Jake scratches his beard, "We'll see what we can work out." "Good!" Ruby gives Jake a kiss, "That will make me happy." They head back inside. Ruby heads back into the kitchen to speak with Maria. "Maria, I'd like you to take this," she hands her $30. "When you get a chance take this money and buy some new supplies for the kitchen. Don't forget we're going to be expanding and hopefully will need more help for you here in the kitchen. So buy what you think you will need."

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter 212, “Calm before the Storm“, Friday, March 31st , 1882, 8:00 P.M.

While waiting tables Kate reflected back upon her earlier conversation with Meghan, having said “I will see you girls at the El Parador in the morning. I'm afraid it will have to be early, around 8:00. It's going to be a very busy day. Thank you for your help tomorrow, by the way. I certainly appreciate it." Meagan gave Kate an odd look and said "You consider 8:00 O'clock to be early?"

Kate laughed. "To tell the truth, I don't. But most of my friends do, so I have gotten into the habit of thinking no one else wakes as early as I do. And I often work quite late, so I rise a bit later on many days." The ladies had talked for a few more minutes, then Kate went back to the El Parador. She and Sonoma then went out to the ranch where Kate carefully chose two of the horses she'd had the most time to work with to bring back into town, as well as bringing her stallion. They headed back driving three confused sheep before them. They got all the animals tucked safely in the barn, then Kate went to Gilson's for a bath.

During dinner she had written a note to Conrad and asked that it be given to him when he came in for dinner, then headed off to work. The note read:

Conrad,
Please meet me tomorrow morning in the grove at ten o'clock. I'm sorry to make you rise so early, but I have a very busy day ahead and would very much like to speak before it starts.
Katherine

“Yes, tomorrow will be a busy day,” she said to herself, not fully realizing exactly how busy it will actually be.

After talking with Maria, Ruby again takes to the stage to sing passionately while Jake starts his game up with new players, hoping to bring some real money in this time. While up on stage Ruby notices the man that Katherine was speaking to the night before enter the Saloon. He waits over by the bar until a spot opens up near the stage and he takes a seat. Ruby notices that his light blue eyes rarely leave her or the stage area. At one point she catches his gaze and he smiles up at her.

After her set she wanders over to the bar and asks for a bourbon. Before she even looks up she knows the man is standing next to her. She flips her hair as she looks towards him. “Good evening Mr.…Turner I think it was?” He grins and says, “Why yes, Miss West, Colin Turner.” He takes her hand and kisses it slowly. “A pleasure to see you again.” She raises an eyebrow at his lingering of holding her hand. “It’s always a pleasure to see our customers return,” Ruby flirts, "Especially the handsome ones."

Still dealing five card stud, Jake notices the man talking to Ruby at the bar and his eyebrows unconsciously raise a bit when he kisses her hand. Same guy from last night, he thinks. Jake focuses on his game only glancing over occasionally. A cocky smile comes to Turner’s face. “And it’s always a pleasure to have a beautiful woman pay such a compliment. Will you join me for a drink?”

At the Lucky Lady Kate practically had to push her way inside. I should have realized and come earlier. She got her apron, and got down to work, then played for Ruby. It wasn't long before Mr. Turner was back, but tonight he seemed to have no interest in her.

Ruby glances over to Jake who is concentrating on his poker game. Normally she would join any customer in a drink without question but this seemed different to her. Something about him was drawing her to him, making her heart pound and she felt like he knew it. “I’m not…” She starts as he pushes a red wine towards her.

“Don’t break my heart Miss West,” he interrupts, his breath on her neck. Ruby shivers as a chill runs up her spine. “Alright, just this one,” she hesitates, “We have so many customers here tonight I can’t let you monopolize all my time…” She lifts the glass to her lips and sips. Trying to distract herself from the unwanted feelings she asks, “So what are you doing here in Promise City? Come to enjoy the festival?”

He continues to smile and stand near her. She could smell him, the strong scent of his cologne almost overwhelming her. “No Miss West, I’m here on business.” He sips his wine casually and Ruby swore he was looking right at Jake. “But things are different for me this time than there were the last.” “Oh, what business is that?” She looks at the wine in her hand, wondering if that was giving her the lightheaded feeling she was experiencing. He replies, “You, Miss West, my business here is you.”

It takes Ruby a moment to comprehend what Colin has just said. She furrows her brows and again looks at the wine in her hand. She quickly places the wine on the bar and looks Turner in the eyes. “I’m afraid I’m already taken Mr. Turner and very much in love.” “So?” he replies, his eyes twinkling. Ruby looks into his blue eyes one more time and she feels like she practically has to force herself away from his gaze. He is not fazed by her proclamation and they both know it.

As she starts walking away he grabs her arm but she keeps her stare forward. He leans towards her and whispers in her ear, “Miss West, I believe that once you walk away from me you will not be able to get me out of your mind. But do not fear for I will be here.” He releases her arm and she walks away from him.

When she finally turns back she only catches a glimpse of him strolling out the front door. She shivers again and has another whiskey before approaching Kate at the piano. “Did you see me talking to Mr. Turner? There is something… strange about him. I hope Jake didn’t see that.” She glances back to the door. “Strange but kind of,” she lowers her voice, “Exciting.”

Kate picked up the sheet music and began to fan herself with it. "His eyes are very... intense. I have been purposely not thinking about him since yesterday. And despite all his protestations, I see he had no interest in speaking to me again tonight. Probably a good thing, I have enough troubles. But he is compelling, to say the least."

"Yes, compelling..." Ruby says, staring off to the direction of the front door. "And he said something... well, forget it," she snaps back to attention. "We BOTH have enough trouble."
Ruby looks Kate up and down, "You look great tonight. I told you red was a good color for you," Ruby smiles. Kate replies, "I was going to wear it tomorrow night, but I have a costume now. It seemed a shame not to wear it once or twice before.... Well, before it doesn't fit well.”

Kate then asks, "What did he say that bothered you?" Ruby says, "A costume? That's great! And you tried to say you weren't coming... I knew you were faking," Ruby laughs but then her face turns more serious and she speaks in a low voice. "He said when I walked away from him I would keep thinking about him and that he would be back. I asked him why he was here in town and he said because of me." She shrugs, "That's not all that strange. I don’t' know something IS strange though." Ruby continues quickly, "But don’t tell Jake, he has enough to worry about right now. I'm sure it's nothing."

"I'll not say a word. As you say, it's not the first time a man has said such things to you. And being attached to someone doesn't make you blind to the charms of others," Kate said with a smile. "You just don't act on it. And I really did think I wouldn't be going to the ball. It still seems not quite right to go, but I'm going to do it anyway."

Kate is surprised to see Ginnie. She picks up an apron from the kitchen along with a cookie that Maria hands her and begins to bus the tables. Kate moved over to Ginnie and smiled. "I'm glad to see you," she said, giving her a little hug. "It's going to be busy all night, make sure you stop and have Maria give you something more substantial to eat later. And another cookie."

Ginnie smiles then catches herself and puts back on her professional face. "The tips should be good and plentiful. I'll make sure I get something for supper later if we have a lull." "Good, I don't want to see you wasting away to nothing. Hmm, I think I need a cookie too," Kate laughed and kissed Ginnie's forehead, then squeezed her shoulder lightly before she stepped away to get her own cookie. Just that moment of a smile from Ginnie made her night. There might some hope after all.

Nanuet has no trouble keeping busy at the Lucky Lady that night. The crowd is larger than usual but for the most part was well behaved. At one point he notices Ruby talking with a stranger at the bar and having a drink with him. That was not unusual but then when Ruby started to step away he grabbed her arm and started to move in and whisper something to her. Nanuet started in that direction but relaxed when he saw the stranger release her and make his way out of the saloon. He decided to check on Ruby just to make sure things were OK. Nanuet waited till Ruby was unoccupied and made his way over. "I saw that man grab your arm. Is everything OK?"

"Uh, sure," Ruby replies quickly. "I think just a misunderstanding is all. But maybe if he comes back keep an eye on him?" It sounded more like a thought she was considering than a question. Ruby stares back out to the door again then smiles. "Where is Minerva tonight?" She saw Kate walk over to Ginnie and Ruby decided to keep an eye on her. She was acting weird lately and Ruby wasn't sure if she would try to lift something from some new customers, and she certainly didn't want any more trouble than she already had.

He says, "Yeah, I will keep an eye out for him" a bit puzzled by Ruby's lack of conviction in her response. "Not sure where Minerva is right now. Haven't seen her recently, been busy here and I am sure she is busy with the festival arrangements." "Good idea. He's hard to miss." She turns her gaze back to Nanuet and smiles. "Oh, I'm sure she's busy with this festival. Then again, she decided to have it and made everyone else do the work." She raises an eyebrow. "I hope she comes out the other end unscathed. If there are problems with it she will get blamed for them."

"I guess that is how it is when you accept responsibility for any large undertaking. I do understand that she delegated much of the work, hopefully she made wise choices. I think everyone will do what they feel is best and hopefully everyone will enjoy the festival and the Gods will be grateful." Ruby just laughs. "I'm not so sure about the wise choices part. We'll find out I guess, won't we?" A devilish smile creeps to her face.

After Ruby finishes speaking with Nanuet she finds her way to Ginnie. Ruffling her hair Ruby says with a smile, "So, you never showed up for those lessons. You disappointed me, I was looking forward to it." Ginnie tells Ruby "I have been occupied by translating the books and getting ready to be back on my own. I have had a lesson from Mr. Gonzales. Maybe after the festival when things calm down as long as we aren't still being hunted that is." Ruby shrugs and smiles, "I'm not the one who needs the lesson. You just let me know if you fee like it."

Ruby gets back to singing. By the end of the night she is exhausted from singing, talking, drinking and entertaining. The Saloon stays open into the wee hours of the morning filled with some regulars but mostly strangers. Kate leaves around 2am and takes Ginnie with her, and Harry takes over the piano.

Ruby hadn't had much chance to talk to Jake this evening, he kept a table busy all night but from the looks of things he was doing well. Ruby helps clear up for a bit but it isn't long before she climbs the stairs slowly to get some rest. Once upstairs Ruby sits on the bed wearily and pulls off her shoes and stocking and rubs her feet. She looks over to Jake, "I got up so early I wasn't prepared to stay up so late. How did you do tonight?" He says, "I did fine, we made some money and sold plenty of drinks." Jake just throws his stuff on the floor and climbs into bed just as wearily. He throws an arm around her and falls asleep quickly."

Nanuet is the last one cleaning up since his need for downtime was less than the others. He was glad to see the place so busy. It had been a while since Ginnie had been needed to help and everyone seemed to be excited about the festival. He decided to stay in the Lucky Lady tonight figuring outside was crowded enough and there were too many strangers around for him to feel comfortable in the grove. He made his way to his room, unrolled his mat and entered the trancelike state that would remove the weariness of the day and renew his soul for the day ahead.


DM’s Note: At this point in the game the module had run for six-months, with less than two weeks remaining. You’ll find the remaining two character days to be rather intense and exciting. It will probably run around two-dozen or so chapters, and there was a considerable amount of posting during this time.

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter 213, “Kate’s Answer“, Saturday, April 1st , 1882, 8:00 A.M.

Kate was sandy-eyed and tired Saturday morning. It was going to be a long day, and she wondered if she hadn't been right to think she would not go to the ball tonight. But her word had been given, so go she would. Just a few minutes before eight o'clock Meghan O'Hara and her girls Colleen and Cathleen came into the Cantina. Kate smiled and stood. "Good morning, Ladies. The horses are out in the stable, if you're ready."

She led them out and saddled and bridled the three horses. "This is Meribel," she said, patting the horses nose fondly. "She's a sweet girl. I think one of you girls could ride her easily. She fast and she doesn't spook. I've been working with these other two, we'll try them as well and see how it goes." "What about this one?" Colleen asked, stroking the stallion's neck. "He looks fast." "And he is. I'm going to ride him today. I think he's a bit too big for you girls, he's really too big for me, but I have years of experience, I know how to compensate." Kate led the little group to the outskirts of town and had Cathleen get up on Meribel. "Alright, lets see how you do."

Katherine, Meagan and both girls spend the next hour riding. Katherine is impressed at how well both girls handle the animals. Colleen, the more extroverted of the twins, declares that she wants the less controlled of the two for the sprint finale while Cathleen happily takes to Meribel.

"Thank goodness I didn't take the girls out to the ranch," Kate whispered to their mother. "Colleen would have wanted one of those wild horses I've just begun to train." She raised her voice to it's usual volume and said, "I'm satisfied. You both handle the horses beautifully. Mrs. O'Hara, I'm willing to let the girls ride them if you are." She says that she is willing to allow it as well. They make their way back to town, the girls offering to help feed and groom the three horses in the stable.

Kate says, "Thank you, girls. I appreciate that. Perhaps someday soon I can take you out to the ranch and you can see the horses I have there." She and Meghan O'Hara left the girls in the stables. "I wish I could stay and talk, but I have another appointment in a little while. But I will see you all this afternoon at the children's games."

Kate then went back up to her room and freshened up, replaiting her hair and making sure her green dress was none the worse for riding in it. She checked over all her equipment for the children that afternoon, and slipped out of the El Parador around 9:30, managing to go alone by hiding in the crowd.

It was cool and quiet in the shady grove, and Kate found a fallen log to sit on and wait for Conrad to appear. She had been so busy the last few days she had managed not to think much about this meeting. Now that it was on her, her stomach was tying itself in knots. She took a deep breath and tried to absorb the tranquility of the grove as she waited.

Nanuet "awoke" later than usual as he had stayed up late the night before cleaning up. He checked to see that everything was in order at the Lucky Lady before heading over to the Comstock house to see Minerva. "Good morning Bea, is Miss Minerva in? I'd like to sit with her for breakfast if she is." She replies, "Oh, I'm not sure, been so busy baking and preparing for the festival and all. Let me go see." Bea heads up the stairs to check on Minerva's availability and Nanuet waits patiently for her return.

While Nanuet is waiting a man hurries into the room. It takes Nanuet a minute to place where he has seen him before, then recognizes him as Ashley King, who had met them on the trail a few weeks earlier and helped take charge of the animals from the rustler's farmhouse. He goes immediately to Bea and says, "Is the Priestess here? It is very important that I see her as soon as possible!"

Nanuet glances at the man and wonders what his interest with Minerva is. "Is something the matter? I am a healer myself, perhaps I could be of service?" He gives Nanuet an odd look, then appears to recognize him and asks, "You were with the Priestess and the others out on the trail?" Nanuet replies, "Which trial do you refer to sir? Ashley replies, "A few weeks back, when you were herding cattle in your loincloth. You appear to have found yourself some clothing since then."

"Oh, trail! My apologies, I do not have a full grasp of the language yet. Yes that was me and I have since retrieved my clothing. So I guess this is not a matter of healing or other priestly services since my offer appears to be of no value to you?" Nanuet replies in a rhetorical tone.

Bea hurries up the stairs, Minerva responds to the knock. She opens the door to the breathless woman. Bea has a twinkle in her eye as she says “You are quite the popular young lady this morning! You have two suitors waiting for you in the parlor. I think you had better hurry, the air seems to be a bit thick down there."

Minerva hurriedly puts a brush to her hair and puts her lipstick on before following Bea down the stairs. She fixes a gracious smile on her face as she breezes into the room. "Senor King? Nanuet? What a pleasant surprise! She says and crosses the room to kiss Nanuet upon the cheek and placing her arm around Nanuet's waist turns to Ashley King and says. "And how may I help you, Senor King?" He says, "Um..well...I need to speak to you in private."

Nanuet returns the kiss and says "Go ahead love, I'll just help Bea set the table for breakfast." Nanuet leaves Ashley and Minerva to help Bea with the setup of the table for their meal. He makes sure to pay her for his breakfast.

Once Nanuet and Bea have left the room Ashley King says, "It's my mother. We had some visitors at our ranch last night, some top officials of the church. They're here about you. They were contacted by senior officials in Europe who have accused you of using undue influence and mind-altering magic on the people of this town. They are on their way here now. I rode as fast as I could to get here first and warn you."

Minerva rolls her eyes and sighs in exasperation. "There are those in this town who consistently jump to the wrong conclusions and pass judgment without a shred of evidence! It is not I who has been causing this mischief. I have been trying to put an end to it! Well l do appreciate the warning Senor King, “She says with a smile. "I will set them straight when they arrive."

Ruby woke mid morning. The light was the same as usual but the noise on the street was practically deafening. Bleary eyed she climbs out of bed. Jake was still sleeping and instead of waking him she dresses quietly and heads over to see Mr. Gonzales for her next lesson on how to see invisibility. She sneaks in the kitchen to take a muffin and no one notices her as the place is packed for breakfast.

Jake hears Ruby moving about the room but remains lazy and doesn't get up. A while after she leaves he finally drags himself out of bed, gets dressed, armed and has some breakfast down stairs. He returns to their room and cleans his weapons then replaces the incendiary shells back into the long barrel Colt. He returns to the main room after that to wait for Ruby to return to hear their plans for the day.

Once upstairs at the El Parador Ruby greets Mr. Gonzales but looks anxious to start her lesson. Gonzales is pacing his room and appears to be out of sorts. "What's wrong Mr. G? Are you worried about the fencing matches today?" Ruby teases.

He replies, "No, I'm worried about a letter that was delivered special delivery a few minutes ago from Tombstone." He hands the envelope over to Ruby, It is addressed to Dorita Figueres, El Parador Hotel, Promise City, Arizona." Ruby opens the envelope. Inside it is a heavy-stock card, and on it written out in large fancy script is the word “Three“. Ruby furrows her brows then looks at Mr. G. "What does it mean?"

He says, "That's the problem! I don't know. She doesn't know anybody in Tombstone and why would somebody pay to extra to have this delivered on a Saturday instead of waiting until Monday?" Ruby gives the letter a serious looking at, then gives the same expression to Mr. Gonzales. She says plainly, "I think Johnny Ringo is going to show up for the festival. Perhaps he sent it, knowing you would get the letter and then be distracted from helping us."

He returns the same serious expression. "Us?" "The three of us, me, Kate and Sonoma. He may be threatening us." Ruby shrugs. "That's just a guess and hopefully, no, probably wrong. Have you checked it for magic?"

He replies, "Yes, but there is none. Ringo you think? Hmmm, follow me." He leads her into the library and goes to the bookcase. He pulls out a few volumes along the wall. "I can't be positive, but I suspect that some of the margin notes in these books were written by Ringo. One has a date notation of 1881, which is when the library would have been in his possession. Look over some of these and see if you can find the word 'three' written in longhand like the note and we can compare."

Ruby nods and carefully but quickly skims over the books looking for the word three, or even something close, like tree. She finds a margin note describing a spell effect that reads "area of effect - three person maximum". She grabs the card and compares, seeing an exact match. Gonzales concurs with that assessment.

She exclaims, "Damn it! Well, at least you know it is from him. I don't know exactly what three could mean though. It could also mean 3:00. I wonder what is going on at three. But you know," Ruby says biting her lip, "If this really was meant for you that mean he knows you are a wizard. Maybe he knows about us too." Gonzales says "Or maybe you are letting your imagination run away from itself. Well, Dorita has heard about my mansion but never been inside. I think I had best show her here until we can better ascertain what this is all about."

Ruby says, "That's probably a good idea. And if you could still show me that spell, I think it will be useful." Ruby looks at her feet for a moment. "I know he would never ever hide here, but if I had to, could I put Jake and our friends in here? If we needed to escape?" Gonzales replies, "No, I'm sorry, but I'm afraid this place is only for myself and my little birds. There are things here that would be dangerous to one such as him. But I can do this. Mr. Cook knows that I can use magic to transport people, he even joined us once. So if you ask I will bring you both to whatever destination you choose to be safe."

She answers, "Don't get me wrong, I don't think we're going anywhere. I'm just worried about him. Not just him, all of them. But don't worry, I haven't told him about here. As a matter of fact, this is the only real secret between us." Ruby pauses, "Thank you for the offer. I hope we never have to take you up on it. Now, what do YOU think the letter means? I know you said you don't know but you must have a guess..." He says, "I do not know. But I will go get Dorita now and bring her here. She will probably argue with me but on this I will not take no for an answer."

Ruby says, "Alright, I'll wait here then. She isn't going to be happy, who will run the Cantina?" Ruby shakes her head. "Forget it, just go get her." It takes only a few minutes for Dorita to arrive back. She ignores all of the splendor of the room and instead rushes straight over to Ruby "Grandfather say you need help? What can I do?" Ruby glances at Gonzales who shrugs his shoulder and meekly says, "It's the best I could think up on the fly."

Ruby smiles. "Yes, I do need your help. You see, you are like the mother I never really had and I need you to stay safe." Dorita gives her a hug and says, "And you are very much like my daughter Angelica." "I am?" Ruby's face shows her surprise. "What was she like?" Ruby takes Dorita's hand. Dorita replies, "Was? Not was, is, She very much alive and full of life. She is back in Texas with her three husbands, although United States only recognizes her first marriage." "I'm sorry, I meant is. I'm just distracted, especially today. But three husbands?" Ruby laughs, "That is where we differ. I doubt I'll ever marry once."

Gonzales joins in and explains to Dorita about the note and how it is from Ringo. He says that he wants Dorita to stay in his rooms until they better know what is going on. She begins to raise some objection until he points out that it is not only for her safety but that of everybody else in the El Parador. He offers to show her a tour of his mansion, which she relents to.

Postmaster Eddie Palmer arrives at the Lucky Lady. He has with him a special delivery letter addressed to Jake Cook. "Good morning Eddie, if you'd like a cup of coffee just ask Maria." Jake accepts the letter from him. "Special delivery? That's unusual." Jake then opens the letter. Inside it is a heavy-stock card, and on it written out in large fancy script is the word “Two“. Jake frowns at it a bit before stuffing it in his shirt pocket.

Conrad Booth arrives at the grove promptly at 10:00 AM. He is dressed in his best suit. He also has a look of concern on his face and dark heavy bags under his bloodshot eyes. He smiles, but it appears a bit forced. Kate stood and hurried over to him. "Conrad, are you alright? You look exhausted. And worried." Conrad replies, "I...well...your note. I took it as a good sign and did well last night at the Long Branch. But then after I got home I started to worry.....I'm afraid that I was up all night thinking about what you answer would be."

Kate took his arm and led him over to the log she had been sitting on. "If I had realized it would keep you up, I wouldn't have sent it. I would have just found you this morning. You shouldn't be losing sleep over me." They sat down together on the log and Kate took his large hand in her two small ones. "Conrad, I... You are a wonderful man, something most people don't realize." A tear fell on her hand. "I want you to be happy, to have the things you desire, and to give you that I think.... I think I must refuse your offer."

Conrad says, "Have..have you thought this through? Do you realize what the future will bring to you and your son? All of that is unnecessary, I....I would like you to give this some more time...please. Are you still planning to accompany me this evening to the ball?" She replies, "I will accompany you to the ball as long as you still want me to. I have thought long and hard on this. But tell me, what do you think the future would bring?"

Conrad replies, "I do not know. The future is uncertain. But the things that people will say about you and your son are untrue. You should not have to bear those and neither should he. Katherine, I know that you are not ready yet. This does not need to be a true marriage....I...I hope that some day, when you are ready, it could be. But for now you would make me the happiest man in Arizona if you would agree to wed."

Kate replies, "Happy today maybe, and tomorrow. Even perhaps for a few weeks. But would you still be happy months from now? After we've been together in a home, living with a wife who can't truly be a wife to you? People asking you about your wife, about your child. Have you thought it through?"

Conrad replies, "Katherine, I have given this more thought than anything else in life. Even my decision to visit my father in New York had less thought behind it. The other day when I approached those bandits behind the rock I was willing to give up my life to protect you. My relief afterwards was that you were safe, with hardly a concern for myself. When I had asked you an hour earlier I still had some doubts, but I knew right that moment that this was the right decision to make."

"I wish I could be so certain," she said with a sad little smile. "I thought I was, and now... I just don't know anymore." He replies, "Then give it some more time. See where your thoughts emotions lead you. We have until tomorrow to decide. I...I should probably get some rest, especially if I'm going to compete in the fencing competition this afternoon. I will see you then."

"Conrad, would you...." She stood up with him and held on to his hand. After a moments hesitation she wrapped her arms around his waist embraced him, her head resting against his chest, barely reaching his shoulder. She only held on for a moment before stepping away. "Yes, you should rest. I will try to be there, but I may not be able to get away from the children."

He is momentary shocked by the display of affection but quickly recovers and returns the embrace. He gently puts his hands on both side of her face and lifts her face up to look into his eyes. "Children are a blessing from the gods, I will never fret about sharing you with them." He then lightly kisses her on the forehead and then releases the embrace.

Kate nodded, and Conrad quietly left the grove. She stayed there a few minutes longer to recover her composure before she returned to the El Parador. It would only be another two and a half hours before she had to start the children's activities. She decided to step upstairs and see Mr. Gonzales before stealing one of the men from the El Parador to help her set up and stay with her until others arrived and she was no longer alone. She stepped into Dorita's kitchen for a quick snack before heading upstairs.

Dorita is not there. Pedro is busy cooking and helps Kate with a snack. She heads back thought the lobby just as Postmaster Eddie Palmer is stopping by. He says, "There you are. I stopped by a short while ago but you were gone. I have a special delivery letter for you Mrs. Kale." "Thank you, Mr. Palmer," Kate said politely and took the envelope. She pulled a hairpin from her hair and neatly slit the letter open.

A note is written out in fancy script upon the heavy stock card. It reads:

Mrs. Kale,
The time for playing games is over. Bring every one of the Latin, Greek and Atlantian books to the Last Ditch Mine, three miles northwest of Promise City, by 5:00 PM today. The miners are away for the weekend so it should be deserted. If you fail to comply you will find that each bullet inside my Colt has the name of one of your associates on it.
J.P.R.

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter 214, “The Numbers Game“, Saturday, April 1st , 1882, 10:30 A.M.

Kate grabbed onto the back of the nearest chair with a shaking hand. "Thank you, Mr. Palmer. I ah, I have to go." She took slow, careful steps toward the stairs, trying not to shake as she went. Ringo always managed to terrify her, but behind it was a red haze of anger. Her voice was commanding as she opened the door to her teachers rooms and went inside.

Kate enters the mansion to see Ruby standing in the middle of the room. She doesn't see Gonzales but she does hear his voice talking in Spanish to somebody in one of the other rooms. She then hears Dorita's voice replying to him in Spanish. "Ruby, I'll kill him. With my own bare hands," Kate said, holding the card out in her shaking hand. "What?" Ruby takes the card and reads it. "Um, Mr. G? Now we know what that letter Dorita got meant...Can you come here?"

Ruby shakes her head. "No Kate, YOU wont kill him. But I have a feeling after this weekend he won't be among the living anymore." Gonzales comes out and reads the note. He hands Dorita's to Kate for her to look at. Kate states, "Yes Ruby, I will. And I won't be sorry afterward either. I won't let him do this to us again. You were right about one thing, he won't be among the living."

Ruby grabs her roughly by the arms and spins her around. "No YOU won't, because that would be very selfish of you to risk yourself like that. YOU UNDERSTAND?" Kate replies, "Ruby, I have to do something!" Kate took the card from Mr. Gonzales. "Three? What in the world does that mean?" Ruby says, "It means Dorita is number three. I'd bet me and Jake each get one, Ginnie and Conrad. 5 shots in a Colt?"

"I doubt he'll stop when he runs out of bullets." Kate looked over at Dorita. "I'm so sorry, Dorita. You must stay here and keep yourself safe, please." Gonzales says, "I believe that most Colts have six cylinders, although most cautious gunslingers leave the open chamber empty so that the gun won't go off by accident. I don't get the impression however that Mr. Ringo is all that cautious. That man has threatened by Granddaughter's life. Kate is correct, he will not live for very much longer."

Ruby states, "I agree, but it's not going to be her doing something foolish and risking the life of her baby. There is no discussion about that, even if I have to put her to sleep and tie her up." Kate says, "I am not going to just stand by, Ruby. I have to do something, and I don't think it's taking care of the children this afternoon."

"Then why don't you GIVE HIM THE DAMN BOOKS." Ruby's eyes are cold and hard. "If you do something to risk the life of your child then you are not the person I thought you were, not only that but you don't deserve the gift you were given." Ruby crosses her arms and stares at Kate. "There are plans that don't involve you being foolish."

Kate replies, "The last time I tried to give him the books everyone told me how wrong I was. Now I'm wrong again! Which one do you want Ruby?" Kate finally thumped down into a chair, the nervous anger draining out. "I know I can't.... I wouldn't. But I can't stand the thought of all of you out there taking care of Ringo, while I sit safe and sound. What if...what if you didn't come back?" Ruby says, "I wasn't suggesting we give him the real books. And even if we were to pack up the real books it's only so we can ambush him and get this over with.”

Gonzales says, "Well, things can be replaced, people can't. Dorita and I will help get those books together. I hate giving them to him, especially due to the timing of this. I find it more then a coincidence that he wants them just before a costume party where identities and weapons could be easily concealed."

Kate says, "Let's try to think of something else first. You're right, if he gets those books back, we just may be killed later while he sits behind his magic. Jake left a large chest of books down in the stables for me, for the exact purpose of fooling Ringo if we had to. Someone could rent a wagon from Drover's. We can load it up with that chest, and some of the French, English, and Spanish books, and set an ambush of our own."

Ruby says, "He's not stupid. But I think that he thinks we are. So let's prove him wrong. We can ambush him, when he comes for the books, the fake books, maybe a couple of real ones. We use the dispel scrolls. We use our magical ammunition. We use what we have and we kill him."

Ruby then says to Kate, "Well, you're going to have to deal with it because this is the situation you're in. It's possible one of us might not return, but it's also possible it might be you or your baby." Ruby sighs, "I'm not suggesting you do nothing but you can't continue to do what you've been doing." Kate spun the ring around her finger. "What can I do then, if I'm not there? This ring is supposed to protect the baby, and Mother Jimenez said me too, but I'm not sure I can trust it that far. Mr. Gonzales, is there anything I can do for them while I'm not there?"

Gonzales says, "On the subject of rings, I still have the 'Tex' ring that the French Wizard in New Orleans stripped the image from. I can input any image I choose into it now. So any of us could be Katherine Kale for this delivery." Ruby states, "Interesting idea. We need to talk to Jake... and the others. And soon." Kate nodded. "And I could cast protective spells on some of you before you go. That way I could at least help a little bit. And we need to find out who else received these cards. I'll feel a little better if I spend my time making sure they're safe somewhere Ringo can't find them."

Gonzales says, "Well, Dorita and I will both take another look at all of those books, she can also read both Latin and Greek. Ginnie had gotten through most and set aside over half of them that she said were just histories and literature, nothing magical. We'll verify that as we'll want to send as many of those as possible. You two go check with our friends." Ruby asks Kate to find Minerva and bring her back to the Lucky Lady. "I will meet you there. Try to be quick and be careful you don't know who is following you. Oh and Nanuet is probably with her..."

Ruby then states, "I still need to learn that spell, I think it will be really important." He replies, "Getting these books ready has now become more important." Ruby replies, "If one of us ends up dead because someone was invisible you won't be saying that." Gonzales angrily snaps back "Madge and I both know that spell, we can help. If there is time we can teach it to you. But right now other things need done first."

Ruby narrows her eyes at him, "Well up until now neither you or Madge have been there when we were facing the Cowboy Gang, so how was I supposed to know YOU are going to be there?" She only waits a second before stomping out. "I'm sorry," Kate said to Mr. Gonzales before she left. "We're all on edge. But in some ways I'm relieved the waiting is over. I must go find Miss Florencia." She hugged her teacher and then Dorita then hurried over to the Comstock House.

Ruby hurries back to the Lucky Lady where she finds Jake waiting for her. She doesn't bother to act like nothing is wrong. "Today's the day...like I figured it would be. It's time to finish what Ringo started. Mr. Gonzales wouldn't show me the spell so we're going to be at a disadvantage."
Ruby tells Jake about Kate's letter. "We need to think of a plan fast. I could play Kate, if that's what we decide is best."

Jake hands her the card in his pocket. "Who got number one?" Ruby looks at the note and her fear is apparent in her eyes. "I don't know. I'm going to guess that Ginnie and Conrad are both receiving one besides you and Dorita. That leaves two more people. When Kate shows up with the rest of our friends we'll find out."

Jake ponders while they wait for everyone else to show up. He asks, "Do we know if Ringo can tell magically if we use fake books or not? Maybe we just make a pile of books, on our terms and start burning them...." Jake's eyes seem hard and cold. "If we are going to fight, why have him pick the location? I don't know if that is a good idea or not."

She says, "If I had to guess I'd say yes, but I really don't know. I've heard of," she glances around the Saloon making sure no one is listening in and whispers, "spells that can make things seem like other things. I don't know that he will be fooled, but you are right we'd be walking into a trap. Mr. Gonzales made it sound like he would be there or have a plan, since Dorita was threatened. We need to find out who's got the other 4 letters for sure." Ruby sighs, "I REALLY need a drink." She wanders over to the bar and takes a bottle of bourbon. She doesn't bother with a glass, swigging right out of the bottle.

Minerva's conversation with Mr. King is interrupted by the Postmaster, Eddie Palmer, who arrives at the Comstock House. He has a special delivery letter for Priestess Florencia. Minerva takes the letter, seeing no return address and a Tombstone postmark.

Kate found Nanuet in the Comstock House dining room, waiting at a set table. Kate hurried over and sat down. "Nanuet, we have to go," she said, handing him the note. "I assume Miss Florencia is joining you? We need to go to the Lucky Lady as soon as she appears. Others have received notes with numbers on them. It's time." "Notes with numbers on them? What is going on? It is time for what?" Nanuet takes the paper and looks at it quizzically and states "I can't read Kate, this means nothing to me.” She replies, "I'm sorry, I forgot. I can explain it when we get to the Lucky Lady."

He then looks at Kate's face and the light bulb goes on. He says, “The look on your face says it all. Minerva is right over there talking with Mr. King. Let's grab her and go." "Thank you." Kate waited anxiously by the door for Nanuet and Minerva. She looked out into the street until they appeared by her side. "Thank you Grant," she said to Mr. Keebler, who had waited outside for her. "I'll be fine from here." "Alright Kate," he said tipping his hat before he headed back toward the El Parador.

Nanuet gets up from the table and apologizes to Beatrice for having to eat. He doubles the money he gave her and heads over to where Minerva is standing. He see she is holding an envelope similar to the one that Kate handed to him earlier. "Mr. King, I apologize for interrupting but we must be going now. Minerva, it is time. We have to go to the Lucky Lady now." The sense of urgency in Nanuet's voice is obvious.

Nanuet, Minerva, and Kate hurried from the Comstock House to the Lucky Lady where they found Jake and Ruby sitting together, Ruby next to a bottle of bourbon. Kate hurried over. "Does anyone know where to find Chester?" Nanuet says, "I'll check upstairs." He does and says, "Chester will be right down." A couple of strained minutes go by and Chester arrives. Ruby looks to Kate, "You have any of that...?" she rubs her fingers together indicating the magic powder.

"Oh, yes. Almost always." Kate pulled out a book of matches and lit the candle on the table, deftly dropping the power in and muttering. "There, privacy." Chester waits until Kate prepares the anti-eavesdropping spell. "What's this about? I was just practicing for my duel with Kevin Tomlinson. Kate handed Jake the note. "Ringo wants the books by five o'clock, and if he doesn't get there he starts killing my friends. And he doesn't just mean all of you. Dorita received a card that said only 'Three.'"

Jake throws his on the table. They all look curiously at the number Two written on it. Ruby speaks up, "Who else has them? Kate you need to ask Conrad and Ginnie if they've received them. We need to know who has all the numbers. Six I think. This is important." Kate says, "As soon as we're finished here, I'll go. Obviously someone will have to go with me. Ginnie should be with Mrs. Kelley setting up her stall, and Conrad should be at home. There's likely an ambush at the mine, or Gang members dispersed throughout town watching the targets. We have to decide, do we try to turn their ambush into one of our own?"

Ruby says, "The thing is, it might make a difference as to what we do, depending on who has these letters.” Minerva looks to Katherine and nods. "Si, We must find out who has the letters. I am sure that Your Senor Gonzales can find a safe haven for those who are less able to protect themselves.

Kate says, “I'm for creating our own ambush. Jake mentioned earlier maybe starting a big book burning club where and when we say." She looks around at the face s of her friends, "We could be prepared with our scrolls, and I have this big rod thing that throws huge balls of fire..." Ruby grins. "I say we toast them. I'm tired of being scared for all of you."

Minerva exclaims, “I agree, we should not allow ourselves to be cowed by the likes of Johnny Ringo. He is nothing more than a bully and like all bully's once you give in to him, you will always be held under his thumb. I do not care about his precious books. The sooner that we destroy them the better and him along with them." she says angrily. She taps her finger on her chin "Perhaps we can use them as bait to lure him to an area where you have dispelled the magic. How big of an area could you dispel? Without his magic to hide behind he is nothing more than a cowardly man.” She then spits thinking of the wizards of her homeland.

Ruby looks at Kate, "Did Mr. Gonzales say he was accompanying us on this little adventure?" Kate answers, "I left right after you did, dear. I don't know. I'll stop in again and ask him when I go find Conrad and Ginnie. I'm not sure I understand the reason for burning the books? I know, they would be fakes, I'm just not sure what it accomplishes. You think Ringo would come out trying to save them? Or you just want him to think they're gone?" Ruby emphatically states, "He's willing to kill six or your nearest and dearest for them, I think he'd try to stop us burning them, yeah. But let's hear all the other ideas people have, I want this over with."

Chester says, "I haven't seen Eddie Palmer yet today. What makes you think Ringo is behind this?" Chester points to the note. Ruby says, "Mr. Gonzalez and I matched it to some writing of Ringo's we had. Plus Kate got that letter." Jake hands Chester Kate's note. He looks it over. "That ties it. Is this something we need to tell the Marshall about? We're going to have to deal with this head on.

Minerva listens as the others talk excitedly. "Letters with numbers on them? I received a letter this morning also, but Nanuet and Katherine rushed me out the door before I had a chance to open it." she says producing the letter and tearing it open. She opens it. Inside it is a heavy-stock card, and on it written out in large fancy script is the word Four. Ruby sighs, "Well, that's three I guess, Dorita, Jake and Minerva. What does it say?"

Kate replies, "My only thought is what we've already discussed really. Someone goes out with a wagon, books in the back. Someone can pretend to be me, perhaps making most of us invisible. Draw Ringo out, perhaps by burning the books, and try to take him out. We have the scrolls now to dispel his magic, and Ruby has that rod that shoots fire. I wish we could have tracked Ringo back to wherever they are living on Monday, but Conrad and I were already exhausted. We were lucky to escape." Chester says, "Gormley gave me some sort of elixir that'll make a person invisible. Will that help? I have it in my room."

Kate states, "If we bring the Marshals into it, we lose every advantage we might have. Ruby and I would be in jail for magic-use as soon as it was over. I never thought I'd say it, but just now I wish Wyatt Earp were still in the Marshall's office. That elixir will help, Chester. Thanks."

Nanuet adds, "I have some powder from Kajaka that might help as well. If we can manage to moisten an area of the ground, and keep it moist, any magic brought into the area will be suppressed. Not the easiest thing to use, but maybe it could help, especially with an ambush. I am all for burning the books, the real ones or the fake ones or both. I don't know what is in them but if he is willing to kill us for them then lets get rid of them or at least make him think we did. If we can draw him out and take care of this business once and for all then so much the better. I am willing to do whatever it takes."

Ruby says, "I will warn the Judge that Ringo is coming today but won't tell him any other details." Ruby again looks around the table. "I can make a couple of people invisible. There is a way to detect that though and someone like Ringo probably knows how to do it or has someone who can do it for him. Still, it's a good idea." Nanuet says, "We will have to worry about more than just Ringo. He is the most dangerous man, but he has companions. Could he give all of them the ability to see invisibility? If we can gain any edge over any of our enemies it is good idea."

Ruby replies, "Well, Chester has a potion right? Anyone could have that, so yes, all his associates could have that ability I'm sure. Don't het me wrong I'm no expert but if you can make a potion to make someone invisible then I'm guessing you can make one to be able to see someone who is invisible." Ruby stops her thoughts, "Hold on a second..." Ruby walks over to the bar and asks Niles, "Has there been any mail left here for anyone today Mr. Hoover?"

He replies, "That normally don't deliver mail on Saturday's, although I saw that Mr. Cook got a special delivery letter earlier." "Yes, I know," is all Ruby comments before heading back to their table. "I guess special delivery means it goes right to the person, no letters were left here. If we're going to make an ambush we have to make sure it's somewhere outside of town so no innocent people get in the way."

Ruby says, "You need to understand something about the real books. The books are about magic, it's how he learns his spells and whatever else is in there, I don't even know. Giving him these books is giving him power. But... what happens if you try to burn a spell book?" Ruby shudders, "I don't know but I doubt it's good. I don't think we can take a chance burning the real books."

"Johnny Ringo is more than a bully. He is a dangerous man, being ruled by the god of war, and he can kill every one of us. We can't use the scrolls until after he is there. They need to be used on him. Now Nanuet's powder sounds like it works different than the scrolls, more of what you are speaking of. How much do you have Nanuet?" Nanuet pulls out the small pouch given to him by Kajika. "Just this, I guess it can cover about a thirty-foot circle or so." Ruby replies, "That wouldn't leave us much leeway with where we had to get Ringo or his men. And does it automatically dispel all the magic that someone has on them already?"

Nanuet replies, "It prevents both wizard and clerical magics for as long as the powder remains lightly moist. Once it dries the power will cease, but if it becomes too wet it will wash away. While the magic is in effect it will prevent both clerical and wizard magics from entering or functioning in the area and to a height equal to the width of the area affected."

Jake rubs his eyes while speaking. "I am against going to exactly where he wants us to go, that is a setup. We might go near there, make him move. I also fear that he or his men will be able to see invisibility, but we could try that anyway. Just know that being invisible doesn't mean that no one can see you. Also we could put dynamite among the books for bargaining power or a trap." Jake looks up and around with a thin lipped expression. "Looks like we are getting ready to do battle. We need to find out who is with us and who is not."

"A couple of more things to consider," Jake says fingering the chain that Red lent him in his pocket, "Ringo is most certainly in town. Who is to say that he can't do the same trick that Gonzalez was able to do with impersonating someone else. He could be someone new in town, there are plenty of those, or someone who lives here but has been replaced by him. Also, what do the letters mean? Does he intended to go after people in that order? Are the letters aimed at that person or all who live in that location? If we could figure that out we might understand something important and potentially useful." There are several "What?" and quizzical looks directed at Jake. He states, "Who close to Katherine didn't get a letter and why?"

Nanuet says, "I didn't get one, but I think they may be addressed to people more than locations. Maybe they have not all been delivered yet?" Jake states, "Perhaps our Postmaster would let slip who got special deliver letters to someone? A persuasive young lady? Or perhaps one of our local law officers?"

The corner of Ruby's lips rise slightly, "Would you like me to go find out if I have a letter waiting?" She looks at Kate's letter again. "It says associates. And Dorita got one. Perhaps Ringo is figuring on killing all of us anyway and he's moved on to Kate's other friends." The smile drops from her face. "Maybe it's better if Chester goes and uses the law to get the information. Mr. Palmer is rather fond of his job."

Jake says, “We aren't asking Mr. Palmer to give away any secrets. The postmasters job is a matter of public record, we just want to know who he delivered special deliver letters to. As taxpayers he works for us, right?" She says, "Oh? It's ok for him to tell us who he delivered mail to? Alright then, I'll go if you want me to." She looks at Jake with furrowed brows, "Do I pay taxes?"

"Err, probably. Doesn't matter if you do or not, it's just what you are supposed to say." Ruby still looks at him quizzically, "So I probably pay taxes but I should tell him I do and that will get him to tell me who he gave letters to?" Ruby tugs on her hair. "Maybe I ought to do it my way." "I am absolutely CERTAIN it would be better if you did it your way." Jake says smirking.

"Ahhh," Ruby smiles at Jake, "But I have a jealous boyfriend now who might not like some of the old ways of doing things. Should I go now or later?" "We should go soon, we lack time. I'll follow you and keep and eye on you, but stay out of your hair." Ruby nods.

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter 215, “Baby Talk“, Saturday, April 1st , 1882, 11:15 A.M.

At Kelly's Dry Goods Ginnie is at the shop with Mary Kelly doing last minute alterations when she overhears Mary talking about a strange letter that Mary received from Tombstone that just held the word FIVE. Ginnie finishes up the seam she is working on and begins to bundle and price the lengths of lace she has finished in the last couple of days. She made a good amount of money on tips lat night at the bar and would be spending the festival selling her lace and hopefully getting a commission on the tapestries she had agreed to attempt to sell for the priestess. If worse came to worse she should be set for at least six months, maybe more provided the cowboy gang didn't kill her first.

Jane Boag walks into the Lucky Lady Dance Hall and Saloon. She is attired in the nice but not too revealing dress that she planned to wear for the family song and dance part of the program. She also has a leather purse slung over her shoulder. She looks around the room, her face one of both fear and confusion, until she spots Ruby. As soon as Ruby sees Jane she excuses herself from the table and makes her way over, not wanting to have to make introductions. She approaches, "Good morning Jane, is something wrong?"

Jane replies, "Yes! Terribly wrong! Can we go talk somewhere?" Ruby replies, "Sure we can, just give me a moment." Ruby walks back over to the table. "Seems there is a problem with the entertainment, I'll be right back." She takes Jane up to her room and they sit on the couch in the office section. "It's private here. Now, what's wrong?"

Jane reaches into her purse and removes a now familiar looking envelope with a Tombstone postmark addressed to 'Jane Boag, Palace Saloon'. He hands the envelope to Ruby, her hand shaking. The woman across from Ruby bears little resemblance to the highly confident priestess that she had met on Sunday, looking instead like a terrified little girl. Ruby states, "I don't even have to read it to know who it's from. There's been a few of these around today." Ruby shakes her head. She opens the letter and reads it.


Priestess,
I know who you are and what you plan. You will not succeed, only Ares will prevail this day. This is your only warning. If you attempt to set foot upon a stage today it will be your final performance unless it is a 'stage' with wheels on it.
J.P.R.


Jane's voice quivers and she says, "I think he's telling me to leave town while I still can. Ruby, what can I do? I've come so close to giving this town to Aphrodite. We can't lose now. Do....do you think he's bluffing?"

"JPR?" Ruby says out loud but to herself. Then she sighs, "No, I don't think he's bluffing. But that doesn't mean he will be successful." "What do you mean, giving the town to Aphrodite? Is there something more to the ceremony than just dancing? A whole lot of people having been telling me lately that you've been making them do all kinds of strange things and keeping them from their own gods."

Jane replies, "Tonight's dance, well, tomorrow morning's actually. It will be after midnight so fall on the Holy Day, well the dance will be in honor of Aphrodite. We will dedicate the town to her and make this community a beacon for the Goddess!" While she makes that speech her confidence increases and Ruby can now see some of the woman she had met before. Jane then says, "But...I....we cannot turn this into a Community of Love if I am dead. He says my next performance will be my last. Ruby, you've scheduled me to first perform this afternoon at 2:30 PM. That only a little more than three hours from now. What will we do?"

Ruby replies, "I need some time to think about this. Other things are going on today that could change Mr. Ringo's mind. I think to be safe you should let the other girls perform without you this afternoon. Plan on doing the ceremony tonight. By then we may have this whole thing figured out." She leans forward and hugs Jane. "It will be alright. You should stay in the Palace today, though, to be safe. I'll have Harry walk you home."

Ruby escorts Jane back downstairs and asks Harry to please walk her down the block to the Palace. She sits back down at the table with her friends and takes another huge gulp out of her bottle. "Well, the entertainment's been threatened too. Apparently Ringo is trying to destroy this entire town. He must have men everywhere."

Nanuet asks, "Why would he threaten the entertainers? That doesn't make any sense? Why go after her? She doesn't have anything to do with the books, she's just a saloon dancer. We can't just let him go around shooting innocents because he feels like it. I say we set up the ambush. We don't have too much time, we need to get this plan going."

"Let's just say it's personal..." Ruby ponders before speaking her next words. "He signed it JPR though. Don't know if that means anything." She shrugs and takes another gulp of bourbon.

"Maybe we meet him where he says but get there early and check out the area, catch whomever he has set up to ambush us. Turn his ambush into ours. Set the fake books, interspersed with some real but unimportant ones, with the invisible dynamite. I have three sticks and Chester should have one. When he goes to look at the books, well... bang."

"Otherwise we put ahem.. Katherine... in a cart with the books and send her on her way to burn them somewhere close to outside of town. Jake and I know a spot fairly well, we go there to practice. We could take the cart there and at least act like we're setting them on fire to draw him out. Should work, even last night we were followed."

Nanuet says, “The problem with burning the books is that he might just get angry and start shooting up the town. I can't stand to see another innocent get hurt for trouble I was involved in starting.” "You've seen what this man is capable of doing. Will you look me in the eye and tell me he won't harm anyone if he gets the books or we don't burn them?" Jake shakes his head at Nanuet.

Nanuet continues, “At the very least we should scout out the area where he wants us to bring the books. Maybe I can find something out. I can bring Maska, we can search. If they are invisible she should still be able to sniff them out.” Ruby says, "Nanuet, he's already angry. Burning the books or not he is going to try to kill us. Scouting out that area may be a good idea but I don't know if any of us should go off alone right now. And if you do find them and they capture you?" Ruby shudders. "This time they won't keep you alive." Nanuet says, "I won't be alone, I will have Maska with me. She should be able to sniff them out. She can't fire a gun but she can help. Is there anyone else who can scout like me? It might be more dangerous to go with another person."

Jake states, "If that is what we decide, then we go together. Even if at a distance. All the folks that are with us against Ringo will be involved in what we do. We can't let him pick us off a few at a time. We only have a little time left. Find out who is with is if we go, who got numbers, and gather up whatever ideas and weapons we can. Stay together in twos or threes and meet up at the El Parador in about half hour. As I see it we have only two basic choices. We either go out after him, and our only bait we are sure of is the books." Jake glances at Ruby very briefly and with a strange look on his face, "Or we deny him and wait for his attacks."

Nanuet says, "I just figured I might be able to take a look before we all stumbled into a trap. Information is power.” Jake says, "Agreed. You are still our scout, not our one man army though.” Nanuet says, “Who did you have in mind to help us out? I can start trying to gather people, grabbing my few weapons will only take a minute, my stuff is right upstairs." Jake replies, "I don't know. I think some folks here figured they knew somebody who might be interested. Not sure who we trust." Jake pats him on the shoulder. "Use your instincts. Pray to your ancestors. Flip a coin."

Ruby states, "Alright, I'll try to find out about the numbers and warn the Judge." She gets up from the table and heads upstairs. She puts her derringer in place and her gun is tucked into the band of her skirt. She takes her backpack and sticks the fireball rod inside wrapped in a shawl. Jake follows her up the stairs and starts gathering his weapons. "What was that funny look on your face for downstairs?" Ruby pauses and looks up at his face.

Jake finishes collecting up all his guns and his dynamite, which by contrast is quite visible, in a saddle bag. "I was wondering which I was more worried about; waiting for Ringo to take a shot at you, taking you into the desert and fighting Ringo, or finding out that my suspicion is true that Ringo is affected by Aphrodite as well and his fixation is you." Jake wiggles his revolvers in their holsters. "Other than that everything if just fine." He hangs his sawed off shotgun by the lanyard around his neck and covers the guns with a small tarp roll. Finally he takes his old hunting knife out of the night stand and attaches it to his belt.

"Me?" Ruby gulps. "That just can't be true, so don't be worrying about it." She doesn't sound entirely convinced. "Jake..." her voice trails off before she continues again quietly, "I'm worried about you too." She puts her hand on his face, "And I love you and couldn't bare to see anything bad happen to you. Which is why we have to do this today, and finish it the best we can." She kisses him softly on the lips. "I'm selfish, I want time for a lot more of these."

Jake returns the kiss, and a gentle but firm hug while the rifle bundle falls to the floor. "Ruby, you know I love you. It is time to make the danger go away. I'm not made to worry." Jake sighs, "I don't handle it well." "I know baby, I don't want to worry either." She hugs him tighter. "There is something else I have to tell you. I told you I never wanted secrets between us and now I have one that I have to share. But, I promised someone I wouldn't share it, so you'll have to keep it secret for now. I've decided that it's more important for you to know at this moment."

"Ruby, if you feel guilty about something don't.... now is not the time. I love you girl, that is all you need to know." "Guilty? I don't feel guilty too often, I mean pretty much never. No it's time for me to tell you, it's important, it could mean life or death. It, well.. it involves a baby." Jake suddenly looks pale. "You promised someone you wouldn't tell about a baby?" She looks him in the eyes, "That doesn't matter, does it? What matters is there is a baby involved and we have do what we can to keep the baby safe, right?" Ruby runs her fingers across his cheek. He asks, "Whose is it?"

"Err... that's doesn't matter either. Like you said, now isn't the time to really get into all the details. We just have to all be careful." "Careful!" Jake starts to wave his arms around. "Somebody tried to blow us up and YOU disarmed the dynamite. That isn't being very careful. Hermes, I should be locking you up!" She furrows her brows, "What was I supposed to do, let it explode and blow up the whole place?" Ruby starts to give Jake a pout.

"I don't know how in blue blazes you can be careful with your baby and then play with dynamite. I may be in love with you Ruby West but I'll NEVER understand YOU or the rest of the creatures that wander this earth called women." Jake ends with his hands on his hips. Ruby mouth drops opens and she stares at Jake, "My baby.. errr this isn't going very well." She stops suddenly and looks at Jake. "Wait a minute, if I'm supposed to be having a baby then why are you asking who the father is?" One of her eyebrows start to raise.

"What do you mean IF you are supposed to be having a baby?" Jake starts waving his hands around again, "Why am I asking who the father is? Well I didn't ask you to keep it secret! I didn't even know!" "You're right, you don't know, you just assumed that I slept with someone else! That's not very trusting. Humph." Ruby grabs her backpack. "I don't want to talk about this anymore." How did I end up getting insulted by this conversation? Well, get over it girl, you have bigger things to worry about She puts a smile on her face and heads out the door.

Jake reaches out and grabs her pack. "Hold it. This time you are not walking away from me." He moves around between her and the door his voice still loud. "Are you or are you not telling me you are pregnant? You see, I have only ever heard of one way to get pregnant, so excuse me for not understanding what in bloody Hades you are trying to tell me? Who would make you promise not to tell me I am the father?" Jake blinks a couple of times and his voice lowers. "Ruby West, could you please tell me what is going on? I need to focus getting US out of this mess with Ringo and I can't be walking around wondering what you are telling me." Finally his voice gets quiet. "I'm already worried half to death about you, how much more worried for you should I be?"

Ruby blinks a couple of times, the smile falling off her face. "You honestly think I'm pregnant? I told you, I'm never having babies! Ever! It's not me, it's Kate. Katherine. Mrs. Katherine Kale, she's having a baby. And we have to keep her safe, in case she doesn't keep herself safe. Besides, I thought you didn't want babies either. The way I figure if I ever did get pregnant, which I WON'T, but if I did you'd be out of here faster than one of those bullets that come flying out of your Colt." She stands still, still staring into Jake's eyes.

Jake stares back at her. "Oh." He doesn't break her stare but some of the color comes back to his face, perhaps a bit too much color. "Um, I don't want babies either." He still stands there quiet for a minute. "You know, you get me riled up faster than anyone I know. I just don't think straight around you sometimes...." He looks down at his feet a moment and back to her. "I didn't run screaming did I? I mean, how could I leave you? Not that I am not glad that you aren't, you know.... I'm sorry." Jake eyes then bulge. "Katherine?"

"You only didn't run because you didn't have the chance yet," Ruby says, "Believe me, I know the way it works. And besides, if it ever did happen I would leave you, I wouldn't do that to you." She gives a small smile. "Well, I would try to anyway." She shifts her pack further onto her shoulder. "And yes, Katherine. I said I wouldn't say anything but people need to know now, since this is such a dangerous situation now."

"Katherine?" Jake repeats dumbly. "I wouldn't have thought that Gonzales would really do it..." He looks back at Ruby. "Let us not be creating problems that don't exist. I've been shot at, publicly slandered and offered fifty thousand dollars to lose you. None of which has deterred me. Give me some slack, woman, when you accidentally hint at things of momentous nature."

He takes gentle hold of her chin with his thumb and forefinger. He says with lips drawn tight. "Did you hear me accuse you of breaking your word to me? Did I say you weren't true to me? You had a life before we met, which was only three months ago. It was Sunday January 8th that we shared a bed for the first time and not long after that we made some commitments to each other. I'm not a midwife nor a Harvard mathematician, but you could have known someone before me and counting backwards it works." He kisses her forehead. "Yes, I jumped to a conclusion, but it was that something happened before me. Can I just go back to worrying about keeping you from getting shot or blown up now?"

"NOT Gonzales," Ruby answers quickly, "It's not him. We really don't have the time to get into it now...Let's just keep her safe, ok? She should stay here or stay far back as she can." Ruby lets her fingers wander up and down the buttons on Jake's shirt. "I am sorry, I guess I wasn't being very clear, I didn't mean to scare you. I just told Kate I wouldn't tell just yet. And I could only imagine that you wouldn't want to stick around raising some kid that ruined your life." Ruby looks up at Jake from under her eyelashes, "You remember what the date was the first time we laid together?"

Jake just grins. "How could I forget that?" He reaches down and picks up his rifle bundle. "We need to go. I'm trying the best I know to keep us ALL safe. I won't say anything to or about Katherine. She needs to decide what she is doing, or if you don't like that then help her decide. It's actually worse that people might know she is with child if she comes along. Some damn fool will take a bullet for her instead of stopping the bullet from being fired."

"That thought had occurred to me," Ruby mutters. "Oh! I almost forgot..." She hurries over to the false wall and opens the safe. She reaches in and reaches out but Jake doesn't see anything. "The invisible dynamite," she says holding up her empty hand before pushing her hand into her backpack. Then she heads to the gun rack. "And just in case... she takes an empty gun similar to the usual one she carries plus her rifle. "Can't be too safe, right?" She looks down at her outfit, "I probably should change but if I do whomever is following us will know something is up." She shrugs, "Besides, I'm going to be looking like Kate soon enough so why bother."

He looks at her and starts to say something but then instead reaches for the door. "That might be our best plan." "You're the plan guy Mr. Cook. I'm just the humble follower..." she says as she walks out. Jake just shakes his head and thinks, Never miss a good opportunity to shut up.