Wizards, Whiskey and Wonderful Things - Concluded

[Silver Moon]

Chapter 167, “Messages of the Gods", Sunday, March 26th, 1882, 1:00 AM

When Berg and Marin arrive The Palace Saloon has become even more crowded. As they go through the door a battered and unconscious man with a swelling eye and lip is being pulled out of the ring. Evan Adair says, "One more fight of the night and it promises to be the best! Bill Cleaver is primed and ready while Finnegan is getting really tired so it should be close to even, but the house will still back Finnegan so you can triple your money if Cleaver wins." A number of people rush over to Adair to get in on that action.

Cleaver climbs into the ring. Before the fight begins Adair says, "Be sure to stick around after the fight, Jane "Little Britches" Boag will be doing her famous Dance of the Veils which none of you will want to miss." Berg tells Chester "I caught that last week, it's worth watching."

Back at the Palace, the fight begins and progresses slowly. Chester cannot tell if Flannigan is indeed tiring or if he is just stretching this last fight out. Both men get in solid blows on their opponent. Ten minutes into the fight Cleaver gets in a right hook that drops Finnegan but the man is up again almost instantly, with a look of mean determination on his face. In revenge for the punch Finnegan charges his opponent and pummels him with a series of pile-driver hits to the torso. The twelve-minute bell sounds and a three minute break is called for. Chester hears somebody say that this was the first fight of the night to go to a second round.

Once into the second round it doesn't take long for Finnegan to establish a solid lead and Cleaver begins to falter. A full-fisted swing right into Cleaver's nose sends him to the mat and he doesn't get back up. Berg moves forward to make sure that the man is still alive as silence fills the room. Smelling salts are used and Cleaver begins to stir, upon which a loud round of applause follows. Even those who lost money appear to have been sufficiently entertained and there are few complaints about the match.

Before any of the crowd departs Kitty Trent stands up on the Palace's small corner stage area and announces "Now that the barbarians are finished pummeling one another we will start the true entertainment for men. If I could have your attention please. Will those who have seen the Veil Dance before please move back to allow first-time visitors a space near the stage for better viewing?" A number of men are shoved forward. Berg notices the bouncer McCoy is still over at the front door and tells Chester "You'd better go up there too, just in case there's any trouble. You are new here."

Chester finds himself to the left of the stage right in front, a few men having parted to allow the lawman through. While that is going on four small braziers, essentially metal bowls with holders designed to fix them to the top of poles, are placed on the four corner poles of the boxing ring. They are filled with some type of incense which is lit, filling the room with a yellowish smoke. Chester notes that the new smoke doesn't blend with the cigarette and cigar smoke in the room but instead seems to displace it, pushing the white smoke out of the doors and windows. Chester picks up a smell of honey with a hint of vanilla from the yellowish mist that now fills the room.

Kitty Trent is handed a silver flute. She sits on the edge of the stage and begins to play. The woman who had made eye contact before with Chester steps out from behind a curtain, wearing a long white robe. She glides to the center of the stage and dances a ballet-type dance at the end of which she unties the robe and lets it drop to the stage, then kicking it off. Beneath the robe she is attired in dozens of brightly colored silk handkerchiefs of various colors tied to either a silver-plated braided rope belt on her waist or to a matching silver-plated braided rope necklace.

She begins a sensual dance around the stage that captivates the attention of everyone in the room. As the tempo of the music picks up she gyrates faster, allowing the veils to swirl and momentarily expose sections of flesh covered by them. After ten minutes the tempo slows and she beings to circle the stage and starts to remove the veils, letting them fall into the audience. A pink sink veil is draped across Chester's shoulder and he detects a stronger scent that smells somewhat like apricots coming from the veil.

The music changes again and the dancer begins a series of suggestive moves simulating sexual activity and pulls more veils from their fastenings. When the dance climaxes she is attired only in the two silver pieces of rope. Chester finds himself both aroused and feeling lightheaded, similar to a state of intoxication although he knows that he had nothing alcoholic to drink this evening.

The dancer comes to the front of the stage and says something that Chester has a hard time making out the words to. He thinks he hears the word 'Acolyte' stated as all of the working girls from the Palace walk up to the stage wearing only shear white tunics. Chester recognizes among the women the three human prostitutes who normally work at the Long Branch as well as Fifi LaFarge from the Gay Lady.

The dancer says, "Aphrodite sends her blessings to us all. The festival in to honor her is but a week away. We must all do our parts to bring her love to Promise City and make this town that of the Goddess." One of the acolytes hands the woman a silver necklace from which hangs on the end of the chain a teardrop shaped diamond that is over an inch long. She holds out the jewelry and allows the diamond to sway like a pendulum. She speaks of sleep and the veil of dreams and Chester feels his eyes going heavy. His head falls to the side.

He is awakened by the sound of applause. The woman is still standing on stage, attired now in the white robe she initially wore and all of the room is clapping for her. He does the same and rejoins Berg. The various women in the shear dresses are each in the process of each linking up with men in the room and bringing them upstairs.

Berg and his Deputy depart. Once outside Berg smile and says "Phenomenal dance, don't you think. Well, it was a rather quiet night, just the way we like it. See you tomorrow." Chester makes his way back to the Lucky Lady, figuring it to be around 1:00 A.M. The saloon is locked and dark so he uses his key to let himself in. He looks at the clock on the wall and sees that it is now 2:45 in the morning. He no longer feels intoxicated although he is rather tired and also finds himself longing for Clarisse's company.

Minerva's dream this night begins at the Festival. The townspeople are all laughing and dancing. She is in Nanuet's arms and the two of them are the toast of the town, with everyone smiling and laughing as the two spin around the dance floor. As the evening progresses Nanuet suggests that they ride out to his ranch. The two gallop out on their horses and soon arrive. Nanuet asks about Sonoma and Flint tells him "She is gone, her heart was broken." That saddens Nanuet but Minerva's embrace brings a smile back to his face.

The pleasant scene is broken by the sound of gunfire and Flint collapses before him, his back now filled with holes and blood. Minerva screams. Before them now stands the God Mars, with Johnny Ringo to his right holding a smoking gun and a wood elvan woman to his left at who Nanuets exclaims "Sonoma, why did you bring them here?" She replies, "I did not, you brought them here. If you had stayed with me this would not have occurred."

The Goddess Venus then appears and says "Be gone woman, you do not deserve him. The Goddess of Love has commanded that they remain together." Venus waves her hands and Mars and his companions vanish. She then wraps her arms around both Minerva and Nanuet and the three embrace. Minerva smiles and tells the Goddess "And we will be together now."

Venus replies, "No child, this is but a dream. I have extended my protection over the town of Promise City and will watch over and bless the two of you there. But if Nanuet leaves my protection then Mars and his Priest will find him." Venus then slowly fades away. Mars and Ringo then appear again, Ringo now has a gun in each hand. He points one gun at Nanuet, the other at Minerva, and begins to fire.

Minerva again awakens covered in perspiration. She sits up and shudders "By the goddess! What is happening? I must warn Nanuet!" Minerva hurriedly throws on the clothes of the night before and without, combing her tangled mass of dark hair she races over to the grove where she finds Nanuet once again in reverie, him having been there since 4:00 A.M.. She races into his arms, the horror of the dream still evident in the wildness of her eyes.

She tells him of her dream and repeats what the goddess told her. "and she said that she has extended her protection over the town of Promise City and will watch over and bless the two of us here. But if You leave her protection then Mars and his Priest will find you. Then she disappeared and Mars and Ringo appeared again, Ringo had a gun in each hand, and he was firing at us. It is a warning from the goddess Venus. If we leave Promise City we will be in grave danger!"

Nanuet holds Minerva tightly and gently rocks her back and forth, aware of her frightened state. Being deep in his trance when she came to him he is slow to speak, trying to comprehend what she is saying. "OK Minerva, it's OK. I am not going anywhere yet, so we are not in danger at the moment." He leans back and gently sweeps the hair from her face so that he can see her eyes.

"When you say Mars and his Priest, do you really think Mars is here? Johnny Ringo is a man, and I will not fear another man. I do not fear death either, for if it is the time for me to meet my ancestors, as I said in the street that day, then it is time. However, I feel the Gods have some unfinished business for me here still and that is why they saved me, by sending you to me. We can't live our lives in fear of Ringo, because then he has won. That is how men like him gain power, through the fear of others."

Nanuet's rational words penetrate Minerva's panic. Her eyes darken and she squares her shoulders and stands straighter "I am not afraid of death Nanuet... or of any man or god for that matter. My only fear is losing you! I could not bear it."

She shakes her head, angry with herself for her emotional outburst. "I have never allowed myself to be ruled by emotion before and I will not do so now, But I have never tasted such fear as when I thought that you were dead. I am not myself lately and did not mean to come running to you like some silly helpless female. Forgive me, my mind was clouded by the dream. She pauses as if in thought and then looks into his face with a grim smile.

"I will go with you to seek Kajika if that is what you desire. The goddess Venus said that she could not or would not protect us if we left Promise City, I do not know what her interest is in Promise City or why she chose to scare me so but I will choose my own path. We will be thankful to her for the warning and be doubly cautious. She is not the only goddess who's favor that I hold. I am confident that Minerva will protect us."

Nanuet replies, "I did not mean to say that you were weak minded. We need to heed our emotions as well as use logic, but not immediately give in to either one. I myself have been very guilty of being ruled by emotions and more than once it has almost cost me my life, most recently when you saved me. We can make our own choices and ask the Gods to watch us, guide us and protect us. They will make up their own minds as well." Nanuet again pulled Minerva close to him and then whispered. "But it is early now and the grove is peaceful. Lay with me for a while as the world is still waking up."

Minerva is overcome by a feeling of wellbeing as she lays in Nanuet's arms. This is where I am meant to be. It is MY will. she thinks as she traces her fingers over the taut muscles of his shoulders to wrap her arms around his neck. Acknowledging the familiar fluttering in her belly she looses herself in the heat of his kisses.

Time passes unnoticed and Minerva opens her eyes to see that the sun has risen higher in the sky. She leaps up from the blanket. "Oh my goddess! I am late! I must prepare the hall for the sermon! Meirda! Oh, My hair... I have to go. Nanuet, will you help me with the hall? I will never get it done in time!" she drags him up by the arm and laughing runs back to the Comstock house where she piles him up with supplies and sends him to the town hall to prepare. Before he can reply Minerva has already given him orders. He happily goes about his tasks, ignoring the strange looks he gets as he sets up the hall and awaits Minerva's return from freshening up.

Distracted by her dream of the night before Minerva, puts the finishing touches on the town hall that would turn it into a place of worship. She notes that Nanuet has done exactly what she had asked of him and has hung the tapestry of the twelve powers of Olympus behind the podium. In addition to this she had given him only tapestries that depicted happy scenes of Dionysus to display about the hall. There has been enough fear for one day.. She thinks grimly. I will not manipulate these people with it as I have been. She shudders shaking off the horror of her dream.

The priestess Minerva sits on her pillow, once again dressed in the robes of the vestal virgin and recites her mantra as she plays her flute. “I am the beginning. I am the vestal virgin. I am an innocent offering to the gods. Unmarked by man. Uninfluenced by his touch, his ambitions, his desires. I am the vessel through which the gods make their will known. But her mind is filled with Nanuet… The musky, earthy scent of him, the sweet taste of his lips, the heat of his embrace, the smoldering look in his eyes,... and she cannot focus on the words. It may be that I am no longer uninfluenced, she sighs and starts her mantra again forcing all thoughts out of her mind.

As she approaches the podium she is pleased that she recognizes faces in the crowd. She notices that Ashley King is in attendance, sitting front and center, and acknowledges him with a slight smile and nod of her head.. She continues to scan the crowd and is delighted to note that Ruby and Jake are also present again, even though they are hiding in the back looking a bit hung over. She smiles warmly at Nanuet, who has bravely found a seat beside Chester and Clarisse.

This is her third sermon and she is at ease discussing the Festival and how it will benefit all of Promise City. She speaks of her vision of a unified town filled with love and harmony, that includes all of the gods people, giving a fiery sermon condemning exclusion from establishments based on race or gender. She encourages the congregation to use the festival as a means to get to know their neighbor whether they are dwarven, ork, elven or human. She speaks of new fire equipment and the new school as well as building a new church where all can come together in peace to worship. She spends the remainder of the sermon educating her people on the will of the god Dionysus.

“It is written that Dionysus speaks to us through the wine, which he invented on Mount Nyssa. He has since spread the art of tending grapes around the world so that we may drink his god nectar and be greater than ourselves, thus enabling us to do work that we otherwise could not do.
Now, there are some in Promise City, who frown upon the imbibing of the gift of Dionysus; I would argue that to refuse such a gift is to close your heart to the god.”

Minerva smiles in remembrance of the story that she had told the night before “As my wise friend and mentor back in Spain, Talia Rushmore, so astutely observed when she raised her glass in tribute, ‘To pray is fine, but to drink wine, divine.’… For when influenced by wine, one may feel possessed by a greater power because, unlike the other gods, Dionysus is not only outside his believers, but also within them.

But beware the over consumption of such a gift when you are celebrating next weekend, for wine, having been created by Dionysus, reflects both sides of his nature. On one hand, Dionysus brings joy and divine ecstasy and on the other, he brings brutality, thoughtlessness and rage. If used in moderation wine can be good, but if abused it can overcome a mere mortal and be deadly. The god of wine has been known to drive a man mad and no normal fetters can hold him.

Dionysus is the god of re-birth. He is the celebration of the joys and pleasures of life. He causes the animals and trees and plants to prosper and multiply, as do all creatures that acknowledge his domain.” She raises up her arms in celebration and proclaims “ So my friends let us go forth and work together and Celebrate in his name for it is the will of the gods.” “BUT…” She cheerfully admonishes the congregation as she wags her finger at them “When you DO partake in the consumption of his gift, keep in mind that YOU are NOT a GOD!”

When the sermon is ended Minerva makes her way around the room smiling and hugging and shaking hands while making small talk and accepting compliments from various people. She eventually makes her way over to Jake and Ruby and tells them how pleased she is to see them. "I do appreciate your coming. It looks as though it took quite a bit of effort on your parts to get here!" she says noticing the greenish cast to their skin and the pained pained expressions on their faces.

"By the way, I had a wonderful time last night. Thank you so much for including me." Chester and I are going to try and talk to Mrs. Fly and find out what she knows about Buck before I leave here and then I'm going to go over to the Papago store and find out where Senor Sherman is. Are there any particular questions I should be asking?" After that, Nanuet and I are supposed to visit Kajika," she says and bites her lip in an unsuccessful attempt to hide the look of fear enters her eyes.

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter 168, “Sunday Morning Service", Sunday, March 26th, 1882, 7:45 AM

That morning, before Jake opens his eyes, he feels Ruby’s arms wrapped tightly around him, her fingers twirling lazily in his hair. He squints his eyes open and finds her staring up at him. “Good morning, baby,” she says softly, “Do you still love me today?” "Of course." Jake rubs some sleep from his eyes. "It's early, why are you awake?" Hearing Jake's affirmation puts a large yet sleepy smile on Ruby's face.

"I woke up so I could do this..." She moves her face closer to Jake's and slowly kisses his still bourbon tasting lips. "Yummy," she says in a low, not yet woken up voice. She kisses him again. "Yesterday was the best day. I feel like I'm dreaming and I don't want to get out of bed for fear I might wake up." "If you don't get out of bed you can't come back to bed." Even as Jake says this his face takes on a confused look. "I'm sure I meant something clever there. Are we going to go support our friend the Priestess again this week at church? I wonder what kind of trouble she is going to stir up today? They might not even notice us napping through the sermon."

Ruby gently runs her fingers across the olive leaf pendant hanging from Jake's neck. "I suppose since we're up we should go. I have to thank the goddess Aphrodite after all. But we have some time, the sun isn't through the shades yet, so it is early." Jake vaguely remembers talking about the olive leaf from last night. "What am I supposed to do with this again besides wear it? I still don't understand, doesn't your goddess want you to wear it?"

Ruby caresses Jake's chest. "Just wear it, nothing more. It's not like she gave me personal instructions that said I had to wear it. It came from the ceremony. It was a gift from her and the other goddesses to us. And I want you to wear it so she can send us extra blessings from wherever she is, and protect you for me." "Wear it I shall..." He says and thinks even though I suspect all gifts from gods. "Good!" Ruby smiles and kisses Jake again but as she pulls herself away the smile falls from her face. She appears thoughtful before speaking, choosing her words carefully, "Last night, we were talking and it sort of came up, I just want to be clear… You don’t want babies, do you?”

Jake's eyes get large and he says quickly, "No children. None. What a terrible thing that would be for all involved." Then he relaxes and laughs. "One of me is plenty. Many people feel that one of me is too much already. No thank you darling, no babies." "I wasn't offering," Ruby says without a smile. Then a huge sigh of relief escapes her lips and her whole body relaxes. "That's good, I was a little nervous there for a minute, I thought you were trying to say babies were a blessing last night. I blame the alcohol." Finally she laughs too. "Yes, that would be a tragedy of epic proportions. As a matter of fact, I'd better find a druid or cleric and get that spell cast on me again, just in case. I'm not good at remembering that tea." She taps her lips, "Maybe you should come and get it cast on you too, just in case..."

"Whatever it takes," Jakes says. "Within reason," he adds quickly. Ruby laughs again, "Don't worry, I don't want to spoil our fun," she says mischievously. She suddenly sits up and straddles Jake. Leaning over him, her long hair hanging forward brushing his chest she says, "So, you didn't tell me what you thought of my story last night." "You don't give my poor head any time to get going do you? It was a good and funny story. You also answered the questions I hadn't asked you yet about being married." He twirls his fingers around some long strands of hair and tugs gently. "Did you only get married that one time, Ruby girl, or are there more stories to be told?"

"Oh," Ruby feigns hurt feelings, "I'll leave you alone then, give you time to wake up." She lets herself fall off his lap and onto the bed, facing away from him. "You let me know when you're awake," she says, her face over her shoulder, trying not to laugh. "Are you going to make me pay for EVERY word that comes out of my mouth today too? Turn back over and answer the question since you reminded me." Ruby laughs and rolls over but doesn't touch Jake. "Answer the question, very well. No, I didn't give your poor head any time to get going." Giggles burst from Ruby's mouth and she laughs hysterically for a moment. She notices Jake doesn't look happy. "Ok, ok..." She bites on her lip, "No, I only got married that one time. But it didn't mean anything, honest." Her lips part again into the smile she can't keep off her face. "Are you jealous?"

"Jealous of a man who held a priest at gunpoint to say wedding vows? Not hardly. I just wanted to make sure no live husbands are going to show up and shoot at me. At the moment I have enough folks who want to put holes in me. I'm not saying I would never be jealous...." Jake's eyes get a hint of mischief in them. "Seems to me I supplied two stories last night to everyone else’s one. I'm glad my girl doesn't get jealous otherwise I could have been in big trouble."

"No, no husbands. I can't account for all the jealous lovers though or men who thought they were boyfriends." She turns her head and looks at Jake. "Make no mistake, I am jealous, very very jealous. I'm jealous of Rachael and especially that you said you felt something for her and you thought about staying. If you stayed there then we might never have met. Although I may have passed through Missouri once..." She reaches her hand out and caresses Jake's cheek. "But you can tell me how much more you like me than her or any of them and I'll believe you."

"There is nobody else that compares to you, girl. You are stuck with me now." He hold her hand to his cheek a moment before kissing her fingers. "No, I knew being with her wasn't the right place for me. When you are broke, lonely and lost you consider all kinds of things. The only ones I left behind that I really missed were Red and Virginia. He's managed to find me. Which reminds me, I need to get that letter back from Katherine. Someday I'll locate her too." "Baby, you aren't broke, lonely or lost anymore. And the right place for you is here, with me." Ruby smiles, the special smile she has just for Jake. "I like being stuck with you." She leans forward and kisses him. "I'd rather kiss you but I'd bet you really want something to drink right now."

She climbs out of bed and laughs at herself, still wearing her corset and underskirt. "We were pretty drunk last night, we didn't even get our clothes off!" She pours Jake a generous glass from their personal stash of bourbon. The letter said your sister was headed to California, no? Why don’t we try to find her there?” She sits back on the bed with the glass and takes a drink before handing it to Jake. "The secret to not having a hangover is not being sober." He takes a sip and then another. "Ah. We are assuming that woman was Virginia. We don't know, California is a very big place and I just shouldn't be distracted by that now."

Ruby shrugs, "That's up to you." She looks at the glass of bourbon in Jake's hand. "I don't really get bad hangovers. Now champagne..." Ruby shudders, "That was bad." She stands and starts pulling off her clothes. "Besides, I would rather get my clothes off than be drunk. If I had to make a choice that is." She walks to her vanity and gets a brush. She stands in front of her long mirror and starts brushing her hair. "What do you think darling?" Jake gets up and starts to clean up enroute to getting dressed, taking sips of bourbon along the way. "About me watching you inadequately dressed in front of the mirror brushing your hair, or about whether I'd rather be drunk or take your clothes off? Just fine thank you and I could skip a drink or two." Jake splashes water on his face.

Ruby continues to stare at herself in the mirror as she brushes the tangles out. "Rather be drunk or take my clothes off I meant." She stops brushing her hair and turns sideways. Looking critically in the mirror she mutters to herself, "Maybe I should lay off the muffins..." She furrows her brows then shakes her head and smiles, "Nah." She walks over to Jake and squeezes between him and the dresser. "Give me a hug. Please." He shakes his face and wet edges of his hair on her and embraces her before she can complain.

Ruby lets out a playful scream as she tries to escape but Jake has already grabbed her. She wraps her arms around his neck tightly and squeezes before kissing him again. Without letting go she asks, "What do we have to do today? I was thinking of seeing Mr. Gonzales after Minerva's sermon. After we eat. And plus I think I need some more shooting practice. If we are going up against Ringo, every shot is going to count."

"I agree. I've seen this trick of getting off two shots quick. Watch." He releases her and quickly straps on his Colt. He points the barrel up, pulls the hammer back half way and rotates the cylinder slowly. The bullets drop out one after another on the bed until there are five together. He spins the cylinder and releases the hammer. With a twirl of the pistol he deposits it in the holster with a satisfying thunk. "Watch closely." He faces the mirror and in a flash the Colt Peacemaker comes out of its leather home. On the way, Jake's thumb pulls back the hammer and as the barrel comes level there is a click sound followed by his left hand slapping back the hammer followed by and immediate second click. The gun spins twice on his finger and lands back by his side. He performs it several more times. "I need to practice this with live rounds. I saw Red do this, I also saw some others do this before. I'm ready for this."

"Remind me not to piss you off," she says with a serious look on her face, before breaking into a smile. "That's very impressive and it does look like you're ready for it. I'll make sure to stand behind you if we get in a battle." "While you are seeing Gonzalez I'll visit with Conrad Booth. If Nanuet hasn't told Chester and our friends at the Gun Shop about what he heard I'll do that. I think I need a haircut and look-listen in at Johnson’s." "Find out what's wrong with Conrad. I'm sure Kate would like to know." Ruby steps towards Jake again and runs her finger through his hair. "Don't get it too short, I like doing this." She twirls his hair around her fingers.

"Maybe I'll ask for a shave and a trim instead." He finishes cleaning up and getting ready to go out, sporting both revolvers as he has been of late. Ruby goes about getting dressed. She pulls out her cream gown with the pale peach flowers on it, a dress she hasn't worn in a long time. She hums to herself as she dresses, seemingly unaffected by the amount of liquor consumed the night before or the early hour. Suddenly she speaks up, "By the way, the answer to your question is, I always want you to follow me." Jake looks up from gathering his duster with a confused look on his face. "Oh." He laughs hard for almost a minute before he says, "I'll remember that. Ready for Church?"

Ruby takes one final glance in the mirror, pushing her hair behind her ears. “Yes, baby, I’m ready.” She takes his arm and they head downstairs. They both squint as the bright sun hits them. “Oh, maybe we should have had some coffee before we attempted to come out,” she laughs.
They take a seat in the back and both of them laugh as they watch the other slouch down in their seats, waiting for the show to begin.

During the service Nanuet had sat among his friends trying to blend in as much as possible. Some thoughts about his own beliefs and the religion of his people crossed his mind. He fought back the debate that is going on in his head about his own religion and that of Minerva and the others. He forced himself to put those thoughts to the side, but knows that it will be something to discuss going forward. The sermon ended with Minerva wagging her finger at the congregation and the people reacting. Once the sermon is over Nanuet gets up from his chair, he does not depart but again he tries to be inconspicuous and stands off to the side.

After the sermon is over, Ruby turns to Jake, "Well, I'm glad that we choose to overindulge in bourbon rather than the drink of the gods, eh? Just what we need, gods being mad at us too." Minerva comes over and thanks them for coming. Ruby replies, "You're quite welcome. We wouldn't want to have a party without you, now would we?"

Minerva mentions checking on Sherman . Jake says, "We want to know where he went off to or who he went to see without him knowing we are trying to use him to track down more Cowboy gang members. I don't know how you do it. It must have been important for him to miss the Merchants Association meeting. Unless he figures that the law have already made the connection to him and he ran." Jake strokes his beard. Nanuet then mentions visiting Kajika to which Jake looks quickly back forth between Nanuet and Minerva. "What's wrong?"

"I've had another warning" she blurts out and quickly tells them of her dream. "I don't understand what is happening here. So many dreams by so many people. The gods do not usually pay such close attention to the goings on of such a little town as Promise City. What is their interest here? It appears that the gods are taking sides and we are stuck in the middle. Should we heed the warning and stay put? Or is it more important that we seek Kajika? the choice is Nanuet's to make. If he goes I am going with him."

A concerned look crosses Ruby face and her smile fades. "You think our dreams mean something more than what they appear to mean? You think the gods are trying to use us for something?" She tries very hard not to nervously glance at Jake.

Jake asks, "What about Sonoma and Flint? I wonder if it is safe for them out at the Ranch? Neither of those two would abandon the ranch willingly but they might listen to Gonzalez. Nanuet you should..." Jake stops himself, "Uh, maybe not. Ruby why don't you share some of that with Gonzalez and see what he thinks. It may be that the Apache are watching out for them." She says, "Alright I will. But breakfast first, I'm hungry and need some coffee."

Jake chuckles a bit, "I hope you weren't asking me for advice on heeding the gods warnings, Senorita. Nanuet, will you have a chance to speak to Chester before you leave? He should know about what you heard. Then we can decide whether to tell the gun shop or not." Minerva doesn't answer Ruby but instead turns to Jake, the fear now mixed with anger, "I see nothing to laugh at Senor Jake, You KNOW how the gods can be!" She huffs off in search of Chester so that she can have him present when she speaks with Senora Fly."

"Damn it, Jake, what the hell just happened?" Ruby gets her anxiety under control. "Ok, why don't we go eat? She's obviously pissy about something. And to think we dragged our butts out of bed to be here!" Jake replies, "I seem to have a special talent for making women stomp off." He slides his arm through Ruby's at the elbow. "Coffee and breakfast sound good. Nanuet, are you going with that other wildcat or having breakfast with us?"

Nanuet says, "Hey Minerva, where are you going? Wait just a second!" Nanuet turns to Jake "I guess I should have time to talk with Chester, not sure where he is or what his work schedule is like but I will try and find him. Looks like I'm not going anywhere soon." he then turns and jogs after Minerva.

Minerva turns when she hears Nanuet and swallows the lump in her throat but her fists are clenched and her eyes are still flashing. "I am sorry, Nanuet but that man can be such a jack ass at times! Doesn't he understand how serious this is? He of all people should know how the gods can manipulate... and to MAKE FUN of my fear like that? Well I won't stand for it, this is not a joking matter! Lives are at stake. The lives of people that he claims to care about!.. and he thinks it's FUNNY!?! she hisses, her voice rises close to hysterics.

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter 169, “A Magic Lesson", Sunday, March 26th, 1882, 7:30 AM

Kate and Ginnie are awakened by the sound of a knock on the door. They hear Manuel Gonzalez’s voice say "Rise and shine my little birds, we have work to do today. I'll have breakfast waiting for you in my workroom." Ginnie rubs the sleep out of her eyes. The book she had been working on when she fell asleep was still laying on the bed her notebook fallen on the floor had crumpled a few pages with her notes she gathered her books straightened the pages and threw on the first semi clean dress she could lay her hands on all before Kate was really awakened

"Ma'am Kate we need to get up and go now", she said as she threw some water on her face and made sure that her hands at least were clean of dirt if not of ink. Ginnie scribbles a quick note and places it where Kate can't miss it "Time for lessons in the teacher's room see you there" and slips out the door. Ginnie arrives and Gonzales gives her a warm smile.

"Hello, you may have noticed my greeting this morning. I now consider you to be one of my little birds, which you know means that you are either a female member of my immediate family or one of my apprentices, actually, come to think of it, they are the same thing, one is just through blood. I haven't fully decided what species of bird yet, but I'll have that figured out by the end of the day. Of my other birds here in Promise City who you know, Dorita is my robin, Sonoma is my nightingale, Katherine is my sandpiper and Ruby is my golden eagle. You will be a type of bird that blends into its surroundings and is very intelligent. Probably not a songbird though, as your singing voice is, well, let's say that nobody will mistake you for a saloon singer."

Ginnie replies, “Thank you for the kind words but I can't carry a tune in a bucket I can't even hum well although I do know all the words. What are we going to do today? I've gotten much of the translations that we needed done and have made copies in English so that some of the others can study them too.”

She pulls out a piece of paper and says, “Here is a list of the components I found on the ranch and the way I prepared them for storage. I don't think I can keep them in the kitchen at the ranch as Ma'am Kate can't tell one from another and I'm afraid she might toss something in a cup thinking it would make tea. I've put in a shelve in my room for now labeled with things like "really pretty flowers I found near the hill" and a separate code on the label that tells me what they actually are and what I can use them for.

He replies, "We will continue with the Dispel Magic scrolls. I want to spend the next few hours writing out one like you did yesterday. I will then enchant both of those with your assistance. If Katherine joins us I will then teach the both of you something else that might be of help against Mr. Ringo."

Ginnie settles in the corner where she has placed a small table and chair. She shapes a fresh left turned quill and takes the specially made ink in the well that she has been told has been specifically created to manufacture this specific scroll. She places the fresh sheet of velum with a distinct left handed tilt and begins quietly and carefully working on the task of making the perfectly shaped letters to create the scroll.

Kate pulled herself out of bed a moment after Ginnie ran out of the room. Where the girl got her energy, Kate had no idea. She got herself dressed and brushed her hair out, letting it hang loose behind her. The dark circles were appearing again under her eyes. She must stop this worrying. There was so much to be happy about. She took a deep breath and went to her teacher's rooms.

"Good morning, Ginnie dear," she said when she came in, stopping to kiss the girls forehead and smile at Mr. Gonzales. "What is the lesson for today?" He replies, "I am enchanting two of the Dispel Magic scrolls that I had promised Mr. Cook. Tomorrow I will have a third and can then give you, Ruby and Ginnie a demonstration on the spell and provide a scroll for each of you to carry. There is also one other spell that I wish to teach both you and Ginnie today that could come in handy should Mr. Ringo decide to pay us a visit."

Kate nodded. "Thank you, we can use every advantage we can get and being able to knock down Ringo's magic is a definite advantage. I must go out to the ranch today as well, to try and speak to the Apache and find out if they've seen any Gang activity. It looks like I'll be having a busy day. What does the new spell do?"

He replies, "It is only a matter of time until Mr. Ringo returns. When he was here last he told you that he had kidnapped Ginnie and would only return her if you gave him the books that he seeks. He knows that the threat worked, since you would have complied, the only thing that prevented it was Nanuet deciding to fire upon Mr. Ringo and nearly getting himself killed in the process.

Since Ringo now knows that kidnapping Ginnie could get him those books he may try that again, only this time it wouldn't be a bluff. I've tried to keep her here as much as possible, but this room should not become her prison. But he has no idea that she is knowledgeable in magic, and that should be a huge advantage to us if he does attempt a kidnapping.

Thus far Ginnie you have learned a few cantrips but it is now time for you to learn a full spell. The spell that I have in mind is known by many different names depending upon where you study. Some call it Illusionary Object, others know it as Silent Image and yet others call it Phantasmal Force. It is your basic illusion spell. Of the eight schools of magic Illusionary magic is the easiest and quickest to learn which is why I wish to start my newest little bird with this.

Johnny Ringo has power and could most likely see through an illusion thrown up before him if given a chance to think about it. So the key is to make the illusion something that will have him react with instinct rather than thought. I have just the image in mind that should accomplish this.
As a demonstration of the spell he waves his hand, tossing a bit of wool and says, 'Holy Crud' as the incantation. An image appears before them of Wyatt Earp that appears so realistic that neither Ginnie or Kate can see anything to make you think otherwise.

Gonzales says, "We will spend the morning practicing that. The material component for this spell is a bit of fleece, something you will have no problem acquiring. I have chosen to use an incantation in English rather than another language as we do not want to draw attention to the fact that a spell is being cast. It sounds like a normal exclamation nobody should think otherwise. We could come up with something other than 'Holy Crud', but I have never heard either of you use that phrase and yet it sounds natural enough for somebody from Promise City to use, especially when faced with a mortal enemy."

Ginnie states, :I need to see what I wish to create in my mind before I cast the spell is that right? So this incantation could as easily create an illusionary rattlesnake as it could Wyatt Earp? And the more detailed I can visualize the image the more realistic it becomes to those who see it?”

He states, "Ah, but the spell has no verbal component. A rattlesnake should have a rattle. But the spell can also be cast several hundred feet away. If Ringo sees Earp at a distance, too far in fact for sound to be heard, he will not notice that anything is amiss. Even if the distraction is only for a few seconds it may cause him to fire his gun in the wrong direction instead of at one of you. And those seconds may be all the time Mr. Martin, Mr. Cook or Miss. West need to deal with him permanently."

Kate says, "There is a cantrip that will create sounds, so if you were quick enough, could you not add sound a moment later? How long does the illusion last?" He replies, "It lasts as long as the caster continues to concentrate upon it, but that will require full concentration or it will disappear. Inanimate objects are the easiest since they won't be expected to change. An illusion of a person will be expected to move so you need to continually have it make movements and react to actions around it.

The trickiest part about casting an illusion of a person is if you cast it outside in the sun, as the illusion will not cast a shadow but you can make a shadow part of the illusion itself. But you then have to make sure that the angle of the shadow is consistent and that if the figure moves the shadow does accordingly. Also, if a cloud moves in and blocks the sun you need to make the shadow vanish and reappear the instant the sun returns." Kate replies, "Let's hope it's overcast the day we need this. Holding concentration would be difficult in a firefight, especially to that level of detail.

Kate was quiet thinking about the other things Mr. Gonzales had said. She moved over to Ginnie and put an arm around her shoulder to hug her lightly. "What else could I have done?" she asked finally in a calm voice. "The others, they don't say anything but I know they think I was wrong. That I've made everything worse. But what else could I have done? The first time I was alone with him downstairs, no one else knew who he was, and I didn't know him well enough to know if he would kill me right there. The second time I didn't really believe him, but I couldn't stake Ginnie's life on that belief."

Gonzales "Katherine, you should not feel guilty. You were being who you are. Yes, Jake and Ruby would have done things differently but they are not you." She replies, "But if who I am is naive and foolish, does that not also make me dangerous? I don't want anyone to suffer because of my actions. There has been enough of that."

He states, "Because of your actions? Katherine, you did not start this. There are a vast number of initiators of this who deserve for more blame than you. Take your pick, Johnny Ringo, Wyatt Earp, Morgan Earp, Curly Bill Brocius, Flint Greymountain, or even myself are probably far more to blame. While you are at it you can pile some blame on the earth spirits, the nature gods, the Native American Elvan Gods and the Gods of the Greek/Roman pantheon. You can probably then add the names of another dozen or two townspeople from here and at least another dozen from Tombstone!"

Kate reached out and squeezed his hand. "I wasn't speaking quite so generally," she said with a little smile. "I know this all began long before I came here, and I'm not looking to lay blame. I just know that I'm inexperienced with these kinds of things and probably more prone to doing something wrong at just the wrong time. So when I ask what else could I have done, I really want to know. No other option even occurred to me."

He says, "Katherine, you have done nothing except for being yourself and that is all that I or anybody else in town should ask of you. Besides, the past is behind us, that ship has sailed. Excessive reflection on might-have-beens only serves to erode self-confidence and plays into the hands of your opponents. You need to focus forward and to that end I can offer some advantages.

Today you and Ginnie will learn this new spell. By tomorrow I will have the scrolls for the both of you and Ruby. You and Ruby are already versed in the use of the Wand of Magic Missiles. Yesterday she and I practiced using the Fireball Rod that you had obtained from the Cowboy Gang and she is quite good at using it, far better than the men I had trained in the use of it before.

You also have that Hand Cannon that you took from Curly Bill, although using it could backfire. Seeing their former leader's weapon might have the side effect of causing the cowboys to seek revenge against you and will confirm to them that you were his killers. But it could also erode their morale knowing that they are facing people who defeated the mightiest of the leaders, plus they will remember the damage that the weapon can inflict."

While this discussion is going on Ginnie grabs a clean sheet of paper from her note book separate from the scroll that she has been working on and begins scribbling down notes on the spell in a code that Kate doesn't understand. She says, "It's also difficult to use and carry. The last time we did I used all my spells making the men large enough to handle it. Let us work on this spell then, enough with the dark thoughts. Although I may have a favor to ask of you later."

She looked over Ginnie's shoulder at the indecipherable notes the girl was making. "Obviously Ginnie already is working on it, although it looks like her notes are for her alone."

They began going through the process of learning the spell. Ginnie creates a Wyatt that has his hat shading over his face blocking much of the image the clothing is easy to recognize as are the belt, holster, and gun that is placed in his hand. "I've never been good at seeing whole faces I usually keep watching the eyes and that makes it hard to shape the rest of the face correctly so I figured if the hat was in the way it would help until I'm sure I can make he seem real.”

Kate found the spell itself fairly simple, but her first couple tries made a very odd looking Wyatt. In her mind, the name Earp conjured up images of Morgan, and the first two illusions looked like a mix between Wyatt and his brother. Kate finally managed to focus her mind on Wyatt only by remembering her conversation with him in the Great Western boarding house. "I'm sorry it took so long," she said when she finally got it right. "Thinking of the Earps doesn't really make my mind calm."

Gonzales creates another image of Wyatt for them to study. He says, "We could work on a different illusion if you can think of one that might also fluster Ringo, this was the best idea that I could come up with." She says, "No, I think you're right about Wyatt. At least, if there's something that would scare Ringo more I don't know it. Nanuet told us last night that Ringo's men got shot up pretty badly by Wyatt a day or two ago."

Ginnie interjects, “I really think that he uses some powerful magic I heard that he's never been hit by a bullet in his entire life.” Kate says, "Well, that's what the scrolls are for. I think Mr. Ringo will be very surprised when he is suddenly no longer invulnerable. Where did you hear that, Ginnie? There must be something else, something from his past he's afraid of. A man doesn't become like him without reason. But we don't know what that is, and I don't think we can discover it."

Kate focused on the illusion created for them, then neatly recreated it. "I think I'm getting the hang of this." As Ginnie took another turn at the spell, Kate spoke quietly to their teacher. "The favor I was going to ask for. Last night I heard that Conrad is ill. I wanted to check on him myself, but I'm not sure I would be welcome. Do you think someone could stop over and make sure he's alright?"

Gonzales replies, "Dorita and Pedro have seen Mother Jimenez bringing meals over to his house for him. She knows more about natural medicines than anybody, so if he really is ill she should be able to cure him." "If he's ill? I suppose learning gods and spirits you didn't believe in truly exist might unsettle one. I just wish I knew if he was alright; I feel responsible." She sighed. "Where does Mother Jimenez live?"

He replies, "She lives over on East Street in the series of inter-connected adobe and wood buildings. Hers is along the alleyway between the buildings near the hill, next to Rufus Davis's and across from Alfredo Garcia's." Kate nodded and let the subject drop. She watched Ginnie work at the spell, and took a couple more turns herself to be sure she had it down. "Thank you," Kate said and hugged her teacher. "I should get moving with my other errands for the day. I have to find someone to accompany me out to the ranch, and I'd like to be back before it's late."

On Sunday morning Chester awaked from a restless sleep. He has a feeling that he hadn't felt since Chicago. "Something's going to happen. And not anything good. I wish I could remember what it was, though." He goes through his morning routine, trying to call up the memory from his mind. He walks over to the Promise City Hotel to walk Clarisse to the services. "Good morning, Clarisse. How are you?"

"And a good morning to you, as well, Chet." She pauses, with a concerned look. "Is there something the matter? You look tired." He says, "It's nothing. Just didn't get a good night's sleep. Are you ready to go to church?" She replies, "Yes. I'm so excited about the ball. Mrs. Fly and Mrs. Eaton had some good suggestions for making it a success." They start walking up Allen Street. He asks, "Oh? Like what?"

She says, "You know. Things to make the celebration more in keeping with the gods' wishes. Like limiting people to two drinks." Chester stops. "Oh no. People aren't going to like that. They like to drink at parties." "But, they'll get drunk. And that causes wildness and improper behavior." "That's kind of the point to a party, Clarisse. I think you should get rid of the limit." She says, "But getting drunk is an insult to the gods. It's a sign of savagery."

He replies, "I admit drunkenness taken to excess isn't good for your soul, but it can't hurt once in a while. And not everyone is going to do it. Plus you'll have me there. Surely I can handle a bunch of drunks." She says, "I'll think about it, Chet. Maybe I can get Mrs. Fly and Mrs. Eaton to change their minds." "If I remember correctly, Minerva asked you to be in charge of the ball, not them. It's good to respect your elders, but they've got to give you some too. We better hurry. We don't want to be late for church."

Chester and Clarisse find good seats for the services. Nanuet comes and sits next to them. Upon seeing the Indian, Chester realizes what he was trying to recall. But he couldn't interrupt just to warn Nanuet about leaving town. The lawman fidgets in his seat throughout the service. He doesn't notice the priestess getting flushed at the beginning of the service.

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter 170, “Mother Jaminez‘s Words", Sunday, March 26th, 1882, 11:15 AM

After she left Mr. Gonzales' rooms Kate dressed in her black riding leathers and went downstairs. She asked Dorita to have Chester wait for her when he arrived, then found Estaban. "Would you mind walking me across town? I just need to run a short errand, then I'm coming right back here." Estaban indicates that he will happy to escort Kate wherever she wishes to go. He adds "Pedro told us about that Johnny Ringo threatening young Ginnie, we will all do what we can to watch our for you and your little one."

Kate looked up at him with a heartfelt smile. "Thank you. You've all been... How did I ever get so lucky?" She slipped her arm in his, followed Mr. Gonzales' directions to the house where Mother Jimenez lived and she knocked on the door. The door opens. A very old wood elf woman stands before her, the human equivalent of eighties or perhaps nineties. The woman's clothing looks to have been made from hand-spun threads, the clothing consisting of a plain chemise top, multi-colored hand-dyed vest and long skirt matching the vest. Her feet are bare.

The single-room adobe building is sparsely furnished, with a straw mat atop the dirt ground, three large overstuffed pillows with pillowcases that match the woman's clothing, and two wooden chairs. Wooden bookcases line two of the walls, although the shelves are all filled with plants, herbs and ceramic containers rather than books. One corner of the room has a corner cabinet on which sits a brazier and other items similar to those in Gonzales's workroom.

The woman exchanges words with Estaban in a language that Kate concludes was the original Elvan tongue spoken in this region before the Spanish conquerors forced their own language onto the people. Estaban says, "You will be safe." He departs as the woman gestures for Kate to enter. She then gestures to both a chair and a pillow and says, "Please sit on whichever you wish".

Kate looked around the colorful room, so much different than what she had expected. "Ah, thank you," she said uncertainly, choosing the pillow on the floor. She had always liked sitting on floors, and since she was wearing her riding clothes she could do it without being indecent. "I'm sorry to disturb you, I won't take up much of your time. You... you already know why I'm here?" she asked.

As soon as Mother Jimenez closes the door Katherine feels a wave of calm wash over her. Feelings of confusion and doubt that she has had seem to evaporate. But she senses that it is not from the woman but the room itself that has brought this calming effect. It is a similar feeling to that which she felt earlier today when in Gonzales's rooms, which she credited then to the feeling of safety and familiarity of the place, while this room she had never been in prior to now. Jimenez sit on one of the other pillows and a period of silence passes before she answers Kate's question. "Mr. Gonzales asked me to speak to Mr. Booth on your behalf. I assume that is why you are here. Have you changed your mind? Do you wish me to stay away from him now?"

Kate answers, "No, I am grateful to you for going to him, I know I cannot ease his pain. Your knowledge may be able to do that. And I of course would not interfere between a teacher and a student. I am here because I heard last night that Conrad was ill. I wanted to check on him myself, but I wasn't sure I would be wanted. I only wanted to know if he is alright, or will be alright. I am curious about what he had told you and how he feels, but I understand he may have spoken in confidence."

Mother Jimenez replies, "You are asking if Conrad is ill? In part yes, he suffers from the same ailment that most of the town is now under, namely the divine influence of the Greek Priestess. One unintended consequence of the Earth Spirits involvement here a few months ago is that this area of this world has now drawn the attention of other deities. You personally are a direct recipient of this, but so too is this Priestess whose Goddess has granted her favor. She seeks to bend the will of this town to her desires and beliefs whether they wish it or not.”

Kate states, "I don't quite understand. The only priestess here is Miss Florencia, and she reveres Minerva, and has for many years. Is there another priestess?" Kate was quiet for a minute. "I am not surprised the Greek gods and their servants have little interest in the town's willingness to follow them. It is not the first time I have been caught in such a thing. Is there anything to be done, or must we just weather this storm?"

Jimenez states, “I have erected clerical wards to shield his home from these outside influences just as I have here in my own home, which will enable him to reflect now with his mind rather than with his emotions." Kate says, "I felt the difference when you closed the door. So Conrad's feeling for me were, how do I say, exaggerated, or perhaps not even of his own soul?" she said uncertainly.

Jimenez states, "Yes, there is another Priestess. Had I meant your friend I would have identified her with the Roman Pantheon, not the Greek. There is a Priestess of Aphrodite who also holds Sunday services in this town. Nearly half of this town's population attended her services today. Aphrodite is not an evil Goddess, just a vain and selfish one. She demands the worship of herself at the exclusion of all others. To this end she has used and misused her gift of love to distract the other six priests who reside within a mile's radius of this community. Only I have been immune to this, as my power is sufficient to ward off these, plus I am well past the years where affairs of the heart control my actions.

Conrad does not need outside influences to feel love for you. Due to what I have explained to him he now believes the truth of the miracle that the gods have bestowed on you.” Kate says, "So at least his mind is more at ease. Thank you."

Jimenez continues, “But along with that belief has come an irrational jealousy caused by Aphrodite, as that is another of her talents. While you wear Aphrodite's token around your neck he cannot but help to by influenced by her when he is near you. For that reason I have told him to stay away, and not to speak to you of feelings and futures until you are free of her control."

Kate pulled off the olive leaf necklace and held it away from her as if it were a snake. "I went with Miss Florencia and Ruby to give Diana thanks. The ritual also thanked Minerva and Aphrodite, who has recently touched Ruby. I have never seen Ruby so happy...." Her eyes narrowed as her fist clenched around the pendant. "Will they never stop trying to take me against my will? My ring, is it still safe to wear? Is there anything we can do to break Aphrodite's hold and bring people back to their senses?"

The wood elvan woman states, "Your ring is safe, it is a combination of wizard magics and those bestowed by the gods of nature. Gonzales does not even know it but that ring and its counterpart on his other friend were both created by myself nearly a half-millennia ago. It will bring safety to you and your child.” "I thought it would only protect the baby?" Kate said while removing her wedding ring. "But the ring I meant was this one. It was also used in the ritual. Jimenez states, "Leave it with me. I can strip Aphrodite's influence from it." Kate handed the old woman her wedding band as well as the pendant. "I know it will only be an olive leaf, but Miss Florencia felt it was a symbol of the bond between the three of us."

Jimenez continues, “As for your friends....getting them to part with those tokens will not be easy. Three of the priests I spoke of a moment ago are close friends of yours, your ranch co-owners and the Roman Priestess. You have already seen how Aphrodite has distracted them and set them both towards and apart from one another.

Priestess Florencia seeks to hold a Festival to honor the Greek/Roman Pantheon which plays right into the hands of Aphrodite, who will use it to permanently ensnare this community. While the Priestess wears the token it will continue to allow the Love Goddess to over shadow the Goddess who the priestess is named for. She has also manipulated emotions to keep your friend Nanuet from seeking his mentor while simultaneously keeping Sonoma away from this town and her mentor, myself.

Kate says, "Nanuet is going to Kajika today, and taking Priestess Florencia with him. I will be at the ranch today, and can ask Sonoma if she would accompany me back. We are not going about alone right now, for other reasons." Jimenez replies, "Nanuet's mentor has the power to shield them both from this Priestess's influence, especially if they are a distance off. But while that may be what they plan to do I doubt those events will occur unless you help to make it so. You must be careful how you go about this, they will not be inclined to believe what I have shared with you. Love is an emotion that transcends logic."

Jimenez adds, “Two of the other priests, Thomas Valdez of the Mexican and Celtic Church and Nils Thorrsohn of the Norse Church are now caught up in a love triangle with one of the Priestesses acolytes and I fear that violence will soon follow. The other priest of this area....he...well...that man she seeks to destroy completely and she has already set the events into motion to bring that about." Jimenez replies, "So my friends are the only ones I'll be able to help at all? And who is the other priest?"

She replies, “Among the Greek Pantheon there are many opposites and among those are Love and War. And as you may have observed, quite often opposites attract. Aphrodite and Ares once had a love affair which ended rather badly. To this day their followers seek to destroy each other. This Priestess of Love has managed to help influence the most strong-willed of this region, including yourself, to violently oppose the Priest of Ares, who you know as the man named Johnny Ringo."

"Ringo," Kate said, shaking her head. "You know that we can't leave him to his own devices. I'm sure Ares is playing his games as well, and it involves the deaths of my friends and I. But how is it possible this priestess has affected us; I don't even know who she is? I will do my best to make sure Minerva and Nanuet go to Kajika. I won't tell them what I've learned, hopefully our need to get information about the Cowboy Gang will give them enough will, along with my prodding. I will leave it to Kajika to tell them the truth, it will be easier for them to believe."

Jimenez replies "The Priestess uses distraction and misdirection. As long as her enemies, potential rivals or those with strong enough willpower to resist her are fighting with each other they leave her free to act. The Ares priest appears to be obsessed with this town, which is irrational. With the Earps after him the smartest course of action would simply be to leave. But he is drawn to this place it as a moth is drawn to a flame, and that I suspect is due to her influence over him."

"I have something he wants. Books we took the first time we encountered members of the Cowboy Gang. Books with dangerous knowledge that must be kept from him. I don't think that's enough to fascinate him, but I'm sure it's a factor. I'll do my best to wake my friends to what is going on. But who is the Priestess? I know how to break her influence for my friends, but how else do we lessen her influence?"

Jimenez says, “She is at the Palace Saloon, she has made that her Temple to Aphrodite. Her influence grows as her church grows, while the distracted priests are allowing their followers to turn elsewhere." Kate says, "I understand. I will try to bring the priests I know back to their senses. Subtly, of course. I should go, I've taken up enough of your time. Thank you for sharing your wisdom. And for helping Conrad. I'm very grateful."

Kate pushed herself up off the floor to stand. "Estaban went back to the El Parador. I suppose I will have to go back by myself, I'll just have to hurry." Mother Jimenez opens the door and heads across the way, pounding on the door. Alfredo Garcia opens it The woman says, "You take Mrs. Kale back to El Parador...NOW!" He does as instructed.

"I, ah, thank you," she said again to Mother Jimenez before she walked away with Mr. Garcia, a regular at the Lucky Lady. She chatted pleasantly with him about his luck at cards, and in a few minutes she was back at the El Parador. Kate looked around for Chester, but he was not there yet. It wasn't quite noon, Miss Florencia's services might not be over yet. She took a seat downstairs in the Cantina and ordered lunch.

Over at the church, after the services end, Chester pulls Nanuet aside. "Nanuet. I had a terrible dream last night. I couldn't remember it until I saw you." Nanuet grabs Chester shoulders. "Slow down. Remember the mediations I taught you."

Chester closes his eyes and takes a deep breath. He releases it and says, "I saw you riding out of town. Out of nowhere came Johnny Ringo surrounded by hundreds of cowboys. He had a Gatling gun and before you could run, he cut you down. You can't leave town. It's too dangerous."

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter 171, “Love is in the air“, Sunday, March 26th, 1882, 11:30 AM

Nanuet tells Chester, "Well you aren't the first person to say that this morning. It's just a dream Chet, doesn't mean that is going to come true. I still believe that if it is my time then it is my time. Minerva is meeting me later and we will decide what to do. I plan on bringing Maska with me, she can scout ahead, hopefully unnoticed and warn us if need be."

Chester asks, "Who else said that?" Nanuet replies, "Miss Minerva had a dream where Venus warned her that Ringo and Mars were ganging up together. They killed Flint, but Venus told her that we were under her protection, but only if we stayed in town." Chester says, "Listen, I know you can take care of yourself. It's just that the last time I felt this, a lot of innocent people died. You can't go. If not for my sake, then for Minerva's. What if she were hurt, too?"

Nanuet replies, "That would be a tragedy indeed, but haven't you ever had dreams before? Dreams that didn't come true? How come everybody had dreams but me, and it is my life that seems to be in danger. Since all this has cropped up we haven't made our final plans yet. I am meeting Minerva later at the Lucky Lady. We'll go from there."



A short distance away Jake says to Ruby, "Yes, a late breakfast and coffee. What a fine idea." He waves goodbye to Nanuet who isn't looking at him anyway. “The priestess has worries. We all have worries. Some of us handle our worries better than others. Let's eat at the El Parador so you can corner Gonzalez after we are done eating." They go and see Dorita for Sunday after sermon breakfast.

Burton Lumley approaches in Minerva‘s direction. She hadn't seen him during the sermon so assumes that he just arrives. He yells over "Priestess, I need some of your time. There are a number of matters that need to be settled regarding this upcoming festival."

Nanuet says, "Minerva, I am sure Jake wasn't purposefully making fun of the Gods. Please try and stay calm for now, you have people who need to talk with you. We can talk about this later. I'll start cleaning up." Nanuet puts his arms gently on Minerva's shoulders. "Remember, you were told we were protected here. Now, Priestess, you are wanted." He hugs her and then ushers her towards Burton Lumley.

Minerva looks into Nanuet's eyes and nods. "I'll clean up and meet you at the Lucky Lady, we can discuss our plans then." Nanuet then diligently begins taking down the tapestries and other decorations. He puts away chairs with the others and then takes the tapestries to the Lucky Lady where he stores them in his room. He then picks up a broom and begins working on sweeping up the main room of his favorite saloon.

Outside, She fixes her smile and approaches Mr. Lumley. "Senor Lumley" she says cheerfully "of course I have time for you. How may I help?" He says, "Could you please follow me, over to the Gay Lady? We need to have a meeting about this Festival." "Senor Lumley, It will take me a few minutes to finish up here. I shall meet you at the Gay Lady in ten minutes if that is agreeable to you."

Minerva composes herself and smiling approaches Chester and Clarisse. "Buenas Dias, Senorita, Chester. I was hoping that you could introduce me to Senora Fly so that we could discuss including the quilts in the festival." She then pulls Chester aside. She explains that something has come up and she must go. She asks him if he will try and find out exactly who Buck Fly is, what the family thinks of him and if he has been in town recently. "Anything you find out will be helpful. Gracias Chester." she says and leaves

Kate waved to Ruby and Jake as they came in for what could only assume would be breakfast for them. They both still had that blurry-eyed look that was usually cleared up with a couple cups of coffee. "How was church?" she asked. "I was very nearly inspired." Jake comments dryly.

Ruby, Katherine and Jake chat a while over coffee while waiting for Dorita to server up some breakfast. "I keep forgetting, can I have the letter Maggie wrote back? Did you share it with our friends?" She says, “"I'll bring it down to you before I leave for the ranch. I did share it, and we all got a smile out of it. "Have you seen Senor Gonzalez?" Ruby asks Katherine. "I need to speak with him about a couple of things." Jake whispers, "Minerva has had another troubling dream. One that wasn't pleasant about the Flint and Sonoma at the ranch." In hushed tones Jake relates what the priestess told them earlier. "It is certainly getting strange around here."

Katherine replies, "Mr. Gonzales is upstairs with Ginnie, I'm sure he'll be glad to see you," Kate smiled. "I wouldn't worry too much about Miss Florencia's dreams. There may be some truth in it, but I'd guess it's also mixed up with fear and guilt. I would take a message of caution from it, but nothing else."

Ruby states, "Oh no Kate, that's not true. The messages that come across in dreams CAN come to be, no matter how crazy they sound. We should take more than a message of caution from it." Ruby has a very serious expression on her face until she is distracted by the food showing up.
"Oh good! I thought I was going to have to go in the kitchen and cook it myself." She digs in heartily, forgetting the previous topic of conversation.

As Ruby turned her head toward the kitchen for a moment to see Dorita bustle out, Kate caught Jake's eye and mouthed, "We need to talk." Jake says, "Katherine, have you made arrangements or would you like me to ride out with you?" She says, "I haven't. I was waiting to see if Chester arrived. Anyone from the El Parador could accompany me, but I have imposed on them quite a bit already. I'd be glad to have you ride out with me."

After eating her breakfast Ruby rises from the table. "Are we still going riding later baby?" Ruby asks Jake. "Yes, meet me at the Lucky Lady after your uh, meeting." Jake replies. Ruby nods in response. "Bye Kate, enjoy your trip to the ranch." Her voice is bubbly and she starts to bounce away but Jake grabs her wrist and raises an eyebrow at her. "Oh," she giggles before coming back to him and gives him a lingering kiss. "Bye baby." She winks at him then sweeps across the room, saying hello and good afternoon to everyone who looks at her.

After Ruby left, Kate quickly lit the candle on the table and pinched in the privacy powder. "I visited Mother Jaminez this morning. She is one of Sonoma's teachers, and she has been taking care of Conrad over the last day or so. She told me some things you need to know. Truthfully, we all need to know them, but you may be the only one able to see it right now. Have you noticed how love seems to be in the air lately?” He replies, "Certainly no lack of lust anyway. The town has gone loco."

Kate says, “It's no coincidence. Apparently, the incident with the Earth Spirits in January drew the attention of quite a few deities. Aphrodite wants to make Promise City hers, and hers alone. There is a priestess of Aphrodite somewhere in the Palace Saloon, using it as her temple. Aphrodite's influence is everywhere. She is attempting to distract the priests of other gods so she can filch their followers. Minerva's dream last night was likely and attempt to keep she and Nanuet away from Kajika, as he can shield them from her influence. Sonoma has been kept away from Mother Jaminez for the same reason.

The priests of the Mexican/Celtic church and the Norse church are both enamored of one of the priestesses acolytes, and Johnny Ringo, priest of Ares, is obsessed with Promise City for some unknown reason.” He exclaims, "Mierda! He is a priest of Ares! I thought you said he was a wizard?" Kate says, "He was as far as I knew. I don't know if he has any clerical powers, but he is definitely an adherent of Ares."

Kate continues, “She seems to consider us a threat to her aims as well. Mother Jaminez said that even Ringo's war with the Earps is being twisted to suit her purposes, keeping those of us strong willed enough to resist her from doing so. If we're busy, we can't interfere with her priestess' activities. We still need to deal with the Cowboy Gang, I don't think we should change what we are doing in that regard, but we should be aware of these other things going on. We must get Nanuet and Miss Florencia to Kajika so he can clear their minds. I will try to get Sonoma to come with me back to town and get her to Mother Jaminez.

I know Ruby has been touched by Aphrodite, and she seems happier now than I've ever seen her before. I don't want to take that from her. Aphrodite is not evil, and as far as I know she hasn't demanded that Ruby help in this. I think Ruby needs Aphrodite as much as the goddess needs her. I'm not sure what to do as far as Ruby is concerned.” Jake states, "I'll tell her, um, soon. She needs to know. Just not today."

Kate says, "No, not today. There is one difference between Ruby and the rest of this town. I know Ruby hates the idea of being used. Remind her if she feels that way the she is the only one Aphrodite asked to accept her. And that was all she asked. I get the feeling Ruby is a special case."

Kate says, “When you go to see Conrad, pay attention to how you feel when you go in the house. Mother Jaminez has warded it against Aphrodite's influence. If you mind seems clearer, her hand is on you somehow. I gave Mother Jaminez the token we gained at our ritual, apparently it was also a tool for the goddess."

Jake rubs his hand over his chest where the olive leaf is resting under his shirt and pretends to scratch an itch. "What reason do you have to trust Jaminez? She has her interests just like the gods do and may not have told you all the truth either. She is just another priestess for a different god, don't ever forget that. I don't know what to make of this all. I have absolutely no doubt that the goddess of love would use each and everyone one of us to her own ends. Those ends may or may not beneficial to us. As you say she is not normally known as a malignant force, however she may truly be uninterested in the other outcomes as long as she gets her influence. Mierda, what a mess." Jake leans his head back and rubs his eyes. "I am every bit as suspicious of the gods as you are Katherine, but we have to deal with them and placate them as best we can. Just denying them can have, let us say unfortunate consequences."

"My first priority still has to be making sure Ringo and his Cowboys do us no more harm. It just may be that I have to do it differently than planned." She says, "You're absolutely right about Ringo. This all started long before Aphrodite got interested in our town. We just need to be aware of everything." He says cryptically and strokes his beard. "I think you are doing the right next steps for you. I'll take you out to the ranch. If you don't come back with some of them, Ruby and I will ride out and get you later today. I'll get my gear and meet you at the stables."

Ruby heads right up to Gonzales room and lets herself in, and then into the mansion. She finds Gonzales and Ginnie working hard on something. "Good afternoon!" she chirps, scaring Ginnie out of her concentration. "Whoops, sorry. So, what happened to you last night, teacher? You were supposed to come by the Lucky Lady. I want to learn how to do that thing, you know, the one the singer did in New Orleans. It's really important to me. Can we work on it today? Please, I really want to."

Ruby glances at the pile of papers on the desk and Ginnie's ink stained hands. "Although you do look busy. What are you doing? Oh, and by the way, Miss Florienca had a dream and Jake thought I should tell you, in case you believe in that kind of stuff." She glances at Ginnie and thinks about not continuing, but does anyway. "She's had a couple of dreams. I'm not normally someone who believes in dreams but I had one too and I did what the dream, a goddess actually, told me and my dream came true! Oh, I'm so happy today!" With a goofy grin on her face she plops down in the nearest chair. "But her dream isn't very happy I'm afraid." She continues babbling on, telling Mr. Gonzales about the dream and the possible threat to Flint and Sonoma.

"Kate is heading out there now I think. She's going to warn them." Ruby sighs. "As happy as I am, I have to admit, I think the Ringo thing is going to happen soon, whatever is going to happen. Nanuet went spying last night and heard some Cowboys say Ringo was coming back here. So we'd all better get prepared. I'm glad you taught me, you know, what you taught me."

Gonzales replies, "I had planned to stop by but then Pedro and Dorita decided to go there and I was afraid that my presence would change the dynamic of their date. They get out so seldom I wanted the night to be perfect. I'm sure that when you went out on dates Ruby you didn't want your Grandfather going along.”

Ruby says, "For the record, my parents didn't let me go on dates. They always planned on arranging my marriage. And my grandfather, he's well, an important man, and would never have the time or a care to go on dates with me anyway. Plus he's in England." She shrugs, "Someone's got to run the country. Or act like it anyway."

He replies, “Ginnie and I are working on those scrolls. By tomorrow I should have three of them finished, one of you, Kate and Ginnie. I will then teach you their usage. We have another hour or so to go on these. You can stay and help or come back later and I will teach you that spell. It is called Enthrall. What you saw in New Orleans was also used in conjunction with some of the Bardic abilities which I do not know but Madge should be able to teach you." "Um, sure, if you think I can help you I will," she says happily.

They spend the next two hours working on the scrolls. Ruby is amazed at how easily Ginnie is able to mark out the Atlantean script. She helps with the quills and with a minor enchantment spell that Gonzales teaches her to keep the ink and paper receptive for magic creation. Following that he takes them into the workroom and casts the spells onto the paper itself. He tells the women "There is still one more step but it has to be done later. Thank you Ginnie." The girl heads off and he begins to work with Ruby on the Enthrall spell.

Ruby comments that she will go see Madge as soon as she can, hopefully today because Sundays are slow. Plus she wants to check on the girls are doing with the planning of the show. She tells Gonzales her plans to go practicing with Jake this afternoon too. "So, what will you do about Sonoma? What do you think of these dreams?"

He replies, "I believe in the gods of my people, and that other gods exist as well, but my preference is to rely and depend upon what I know not the will of the divine. So I am not sure of what to think. But if you suspect that Sonoma is in any danger I will go out to the ranch and bring her back here."

"She may be in danger just from being involved in the ranch with Katherine and Nanuet. Even though she has been spending her time out there, Johnny Ringo may know of her association with us. In any case, Kate is going to bring her back."

Ruby finally breaks back into her smile. "And I thought for sure you'd be curious about my grandfather. Then again, you probably already know.” "I know nothing about your grandfather. I know very little about your background Ruby, you were so guarded before that I decided not to press you with questions you were not comfortable with. I am assume that our relationship may continue for many years, and probably include several more trips like our recent one to New Orleans, so there will be ample opportunities for you to tell me about yourself when you are ready."

Ruby scrunches up her nose as she thinks over Gonzales statement. "You are right, especially when I came here, while I wanted things to be different I didn't really have plans on staying. And I am definitely not used to talking about my past. No one else knows or has asked, well, no one except for Jake. I would like to take more trips, the last one was fun, even if it was for less than perfect reasons."

He states, "Oh we will, there are dozens of places in the world that I have been to and would like to share with my little birds. I look forward to being able to show you around Athens, Jiddah, Madrid and Yaxchilan. She exclaims, "Oh you have no idea how I look forward to going! Where is Jiddah and" Yaxchilan? I've never heard of either of those places."

He says, "Jiddah is a city in Arabia, filled with festinating people and things. Magic is freely used there as well.” The excitement grows on Ruby's face. "Oh Arabia, please promise to take me soon, I so want to go there," Ruby is practically jumping up and down like a little kid asking for candy. "Please," she lays her hand on his arm, "I've heard so many stories, it's so exotic and romantic... Please take us there soon."

He smiles "Relax, calm down. We will go once all of this Cowboy Gang business is over and done with.” "That is so soon!" Ruby practically jumps into Mr. Gonzales arms to hug him. "I'm so excited!" He states, "Calm down my golden eagle! Save some of this enthusiasm for the festival. I'm looking forward to a dance. And in answer to your previous question Yaxhilan is a community along the Usumaacinta River that serves as the border between Mexico and Guatemala. A great Mayan temple stand at that location. It is also not far from Chicozapote Falls. As waterfalls go, there are far bigger and more impressive ones but there is something magical to the water there."

"Alright," Ruby laughs, "I'll try to calm down. Things have just being going so well for me the past couple of days. It's like a new life or something. Well, since I came here to Promise City really." She squeezes his arm. "And you may even have more than one dance, if I can keep up with you that is," she winks at him. "I must admit, I am looking forward to the festival. I think it will be a good time for all and maybe even bring some of the community together, which would make me very happy. But," she continues thoughtfully, "I'm also not sure about doing it to honor all these gods of Minerva's."

She asks, “So, you are planning to attend the festival? I was thinking of asking the boys from downstairs to play some music, that would be a great way to introduce those not familiar with the Elven way of doing things." He replies, "I think that would be very interesting. We will have to see what the events for this festival are going to be. I imagine that most will revolve around traditional human activities but there might be some that my race can participate in as well."

She states, "Oh good! Tell me, what kind of events would people of your race like to participate in? I am the entertainment coordinator, Minerva backed me into that," she laughs. "I'd love to make it diverse and maybe even get to try something new."

"My people celebrate through singing, dancing, eating and drinking just like all others, except that the music, songs, food and beverages are traditional to our people. Mexican elvan celebrations usually also include shooting off fireworks, but under the present circumstances of this town that might not be wise."

"I'll try to make sure that Minerva includes some of those things, I mean, how can we have a festival without Dorita's cooking?" Ruby furrows her brows for a moment. "But why would fireworks be a bad idea? That would be a great idea!" He states, "The town has no fire company or fire fighting equipment. A stray firework could easily turn this town into an inferno. While that might make this Festival a memorable one I don't imagine that would be anybody's preference. "

Ruby thanks Mr. Gonzales with a kiss on the cheek and another hug. "Thank you, teacher, for all the help you have given. I guess tomorrow I will see you to practice that spell with Kate." She nods to Ginnie. "Good job kid! Now I shall be off." With that Ruby bounces out the door.

As she makes her way further out the Cantina and towards the Lucky Lady she feels something change. Her light and happy mood remains but the air almost feels heavy. Heavy with what, she wasn't sure but as she glances around the city everyone she looks at or hears seems to be experiencing some sort of exaggerated emotion. Ruby shakes it off as her new view of the world, now that she had someone who truly loved her everything looked different.

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter 172, “Festival Organizing“, Sunday, March 26th, 1882, 12:00 PM

It is noon when Minerva arrives at the Gay Lady. Sunday is the slowest day of the week for the town's saloons and this saloon hasn't officially opened for business yet. Minerva sees a table with nine men and two woman waiting for her. She knows most of the people at the table. Niles Hoover of the Lucky Lady Dance Hall and Saloon and also Hoover's Liquors, Al Brower and Pierre Jaquet of the Comique Variety Hall and Saloon and Haywood Smith of the Silver Dollar Saloon had all attended her morning worship service.

She has previously met Steve Lord of the Alhambra Saloon , Burton Lumley of the Gay Lady Variety Hall and Saloon, Kate Higgins of the Long Branch Saloon and Evan Adair of the Palace Saloon. She is introduced to Darla Peacock of Peacock's Saloon, Austin Blake of Drover's and Porter Norris of the Indian Head Saloon. She notes that every drinking establishment in town is represented at this table except for the El Parador Cantina.

"Thank you for coming," Lumley states. "Buenas Dias, Senors, Senora, “She says nodding her head in welcome. "I see that we are having an impromptu meeting." She looks around the table and counts heads. "I also see that I am not the last to arrive." "This is all of us," Lumley states. Al Brower interjects "I stopped by the El Parador but Pedro wasn't around and Dorita said she was busy cooking." Adair says, "And Hoover her can represent his saloon."

She states, "Well then, We can begin, although it would be better if Senora Gilson were here as she and Senor Lacy are in charge of co-coordinating everything. Well I do not have time to find them now so, Who would like to start?" She says taking a seat and looking from one to the other expectantly. Steve Lord says, "Priestess, that's part of the problem, Lacey and Gilson that is." Adair interjects "You've been double-dealing us from the start on this Festival stuff, why else would you put a couple of tea-totelers in charge of it."

Lumley says, "What my colleague is staying is that the idea of a Festival for Dionysus sounded like a lucrative venture for us but is now looking otherwise. Mr. Lacey is a fine man but will not set foot in an establishment that serves alcohol, Mrs. Gilson does not drink either. They are planning a number of events that do not include our establishments at all, nothing to take place in any saloons until after dark."

Al Brower says, "And at today's service you spoke against people drinking to excess, which ties in with what my singer Clarisse had said to me last night. She said that you put her in charge of all evening events. Well she's friends with the Vigilance Committee and they've talked her into limiting drinks at the festival to only two per individual." Adair interjects "Yeah, I told you guys this was all just a Vigilance Committee sham from the get go. This Priestess is thick as thieves with those high-and-mighty moral busybodies."

Minerva turns to Adair with a steely look in her eyes. "Senor Adair, When I came to Promise City you accused me of being a prostitute "a peace offering to you" is how I believe that you put it, and now you insist that I am a straight laced prig from the Vigilance Committee. You Senor are a fickle man who's words cannot be trusted! Did I not come to your saloon when I had been in town barely three days to discuss the festival and what it would mean to your business? Yet you made it clear that I was not welcome there. I told you then that I would not waste my time on you and I do not intend to do so now.. However these gentlemen and lady" she says nodding to the others "have legitimate concerns which I will clarify for their benefit, If they can persuade you to keep your mouth shut."

"Senors and Senora," she says turning her back to Adair, "Given the information that you have acquired, I can certainly understand your concerns. Let me put your minds at ease. First of all Senor Lacey and Senora Gilson are in charge of the 'co-coordinating' of the events. They are not in charge or have authority over the events themselves. The Festival is to be divided up into different parts. baking contests, marksmanship contest, children's games, nightly entertainment etc..

Now, some of these parts are family oriented and it would not be safe have children involved in activities that encouraged alcohol since some might unwisely overindulge in a nectar that they know little about. As for the saloons participation in the festival, it was my understanding that Senor Cook was to speak to the various saloon owners to make sure that the saloons had friendly competitions and various activities which would entice people to come through their doors.

Perhaps he has not had the opportunity to do so, but it is still the responsibility of each saloon to make sure that they are included in such a way that turns them a profit. Now that you do know what to do you can work out a plan amongst yourselves. As for wine, Senor Hoover assured me that there would be an ample supply on hand.

She turns to Senor Lumley, "I did not warn people of drinking to excess, Senor. I warned them of drinking wine to excess! The people of Promise city have little experience with wine as it is not produced in these parts. Wine is not like other liquors. It is a product of a god filled with a god's power and influence! I would be remiss in my duties as preacher if I did not educate people on the possible affects of such a nectar.

As for the Costume Ball which I put Senorita Townsend in charge of...It is my understanding that it will take place out of doors and the guests will move freely through the streets and in and out of the various saloons, so I do not see how that could hurt your businesses. I believe that Senorita Townsend has the expertise to make this Ball an elegant success and I have tried to include everyone who WANTS to be included" she says turning a steely eye on Adair.

"I must make it clear, I will not accept the exclusion of anyone from participating whether they are saloon owners, Vigilance Committee members or non-humans. This festival is for everyone and so Everyone will have to bend a little and work together. This Festival could be the most profitable event that Promise City has ever seen. It is being advertised in all the neighboring towns and so people will come from all around to attend the Ball as well the more family oriented activities. I might also suggest that someone put up tents outside of town to hold the overflow of people who will attend since All of the hotels will be full."

Adair is about to respond to Minerva but Lumley cuts him off and says, "No, Mr. Cook has not had an opportunity to speak to any of us yet about this. He probably wouldn't be the best one anyone for that task, as I know he has had past disagreements with some of us present here.

Priestess, all but one of the drinking establishments in town is represented here. Why don't we all sit down right now and spend the next hour or two planning this all out in detail. The sooner we know exactly what is going to take place the easier it will be for us to plan for each of our establishments."

Pierre says, "Yes, and Mr. Chumbley has spoken to many of us about placing advertisements with him. He plans to print a mid-week paper with details about the upcoming festival and then produce a special edition for each of the two days of the festival. He's offered a special price for anybody who places ads in all three papers, but to do that we first need to know what to say." The Gay Lady's bartender John Hagan has arrived. Lumley tells him "We're staying closed for a while John." He then hands the man $ 20 and says, "Please head over to the Promise City Hotel and bring back enough a lunch for each of us."

Minerva spends the next two hours placating the saloon owners and participating in the planning, making suggestions about food and entertainment. "Senorita West has been approaching various establishments to try and co-ordinate entertainment. You should speak to her regarding this aspect." Inwardly Minerva is fuming, I do not have time for this. Other people are supposed to be dealing with these petty details. I am a priestess of Olympus, not an entertainment director!

Before she departs she assures the owners that their fears of a two drink limit are unfounded since 1) Wine is an essential element of the celebration of Dionysus and it would be an insult to the god to limit it. 2) Since it is a religious component of the festival, the Ball coordinator, however benign her intent, does not have the authority to make that decision. 3) Even if she did have that authority, which she doesn't, it would be impossible to impose such a limit. and 3) and if it were possible, which it isn't, Since there would be at least 10 times the people frequenting the saloons at any given time, the Festival of Dionysus, would bring with it a huge increase in Saloon business anyway. She finishes by assuring them that she will straighten out this misunderstanding.

Minerva stops at the Lucky Lady to fill Nanuet in on the latest complication. She is quite frustrated by all the extra work that seems to keep preventing their departure. "I relegated the responsibility for every aspect of this Festival, except the religious component, to somebody. I should not have to be smoothing ruffled feathers, but it seems that the saloon owners, do not have someone to lead them. I had thought that Senor Jake and Senor Hoover were going to speak to them, but they have not and the Festival is less than a week away. "I can not leave just yet. I have to find Senorita Townsend and make sure that she understands her role before we depart. Do you know where I might find her?"

Nanuet says, "I really don't know, last I saw her was with Chester. I don't really keep tabs on her, but let's go look. Maybe Chester knows where she is. I think she lives in one of the boarding houses, but I can't recall which one."

"Gracias, Nanuet. I know which one she lives in." she says reaching up to kiss him. "I would enjoy your company and when we are done with this business we can be on our way." Minerva and Nanuet walk over to Clarisse’s'. Minerva is still in a rather foul mood as she stands before the door thinking of her wasted morning. She takes a deep breath to clear her mind, reminding herself that perhaps she should have made it clearer to Clarisse what the girl did and did not have the authority to decide on her own. Minerva smoothes her skirt, plasters a cheerful smile on her face and knocks.

Hannah Milford comes to the door of the Double Eagle Boarding House. Minerva recognizes her from the three previous worship services. "Oh, please come in Priestess. You are always welcome at the Double Eagle. Are things not working out for you at the Comstock House? I still have one more available room here if you are interested." She states, "Gracias, Senora, but life at the Comstock house is lovely. Senor and Senora Lee are very kind to me."

Minerva and Nanuet explain that they are looking for Clarisse. Hannah tells them which room is hers. They go and knock. Clarisse opens the door. She smiles and says, "Good afternoon, priestess. It's a pleasure to see you. That was a lovely service today. How are preparations for the festival going? The gods will surely be pleased. Where are my manners? Let's go to the sitting room." Nanuet decides to wait outside the Double Eagle, not wanting to get involved with the politics of the festival. He looks at the sun to determine the time of day.

Minerva follows Clarisse into the sitting room. "I am interested to hear what ideas you have come up with so far for the Costume Ball. It is going to be quite an exciting event." Minerva says pleasantly. Clarisse replies, "Well, I am thinking that it should begin around 8:00 P.M. or so, as costumes would look more mysterious or interesting under the light of lanterns.

I am thinking that 8:00 PM would probably also be appropriate as the children's bedtime. We could probably do a children's costume contest in the hour prior to that so that they do not feel left out. Mrs. Kale is planning to open a school, and has a building but it is not furnished yet. I am thinking that the children could spend the night in that building with appropriate adult supervision, that way they would already be acquainted with the building when classes begin, and the parents would not have to worry about their young ones and be able to enjoy the ball.

The ball itself would last for two-and-a-half hours. We would mark off two blocks of Main Street for it, from Fremont to Front Streets. Seven of the town's eating drinking establishments are along that two block stretch, the Comique, Gay Lady, Lucky Lady, Peacock, Long Branch, Rio Grande and Alhambra. Food and drink would be available in all of those with each participant purchasing food and beverage tokens redeemable at any of those places. That way we could also limit how much each person drinks, since we would not want anybody to overindulge.

The event would include forty-five minutes of socializing followed by an hour of dancing and then forty-five minutes of awards for the best and most interesting costumes and closing speeches.

After that the next two-and-a-half hours, from 10:30 PM until 1:00 PM would consist of smaller, more individualized events at the other eating and drinking establishments in town not along Main Street, in order to be fair to everyone."

Jake makes a quick side trip to purchase some dynamite. "I'm headed out to see Flint and he needs another dozen sticks for some project. First time I ever saw a rancher go through so much of this stuff, but you know those dwarves!" Jake says humorously.

Katherine finds him with his horse ready to go. Shotgun and rifle in their saddle holsters and his duster buttoned up tight. There is some food, water and dynamite stored unseen in the saddle bags. Jake's face is hidden by the midday sun's shadow below his flat brimmed black hat, but Katherine can still see he is smiling. "Fine day for a ride Mrs. Kale. Let us be going."

"Indeed it is," Kate answered with a smile warmer than it had been for some time. Her talk with Mother Jaminez seemed to have lifted her spirits, letting her worry less about Conrad and enjoy the day. A ride was a ride after all.

Kate began to chatter as they rode out. As Jake answered pleasantly she studied him with a sideways glance. She'd always known he was handsome, it must have been the smile that added the extra something special about him today. "My, it's warm today, isn't it?" she asked and removed the leather duster, followed by the vest. "And it's only early spring. I can't imagine what summer will be like." Kate nudged her horse to ride a little closer to Jake's.

They continued on and Kate found her palms growing moist. She wiped them on the leather pants and unbuttoned the high collar of her shirt. Her chest felt tight, like it always used to when... Kate pulled up on Meribel's reins and pulled her a bit away from Jake, keeping her eyes to herself as they arrived at the ranch.

Jake and Kate arrive at the ranch. The see that Flint has erected some type of mechanical contraption on top of the hill that seems to be slowly moving in a clockwise location and also has a pipe running down to the stream. Kate asks, "Flint, what in the world is that?" He says, "Mechanical prospecting equipment. I still think there are precious metals in that hill!"

She says, "That I couldn't tell you. But if you find some with that contraption, you'll not only get the silver, you'll might make a fortune selling your invention!" He states, "Nah, too slow for most people. This stream doesn't have the hydro-power to process more than a few hundred pounds of dirt and gravel a day. But it takes me no time, it's almost all automatic. I just have to check and dump out the wire screens an hour or so every day."

She states, "It hasn't, oh, I don't know.... moved by itself or anything, has it? I seem to remember Naki-Yai describing this contraption, and one of the children at the El Parador wanted to see it. I told him I'd bring him if it was safe." He says, "Bring him out, it's safe. Far safer than the contraptions being used out in California. Those contraptions destroy the land, this actually replenishes it! The sifted soil can be blended in with the natural fertilizer that the animals leave behind to make plantable soil for the sandier sections of our land! We've managed to set up a fifty-foot square section already."

Kate says, "Flint, you and Sonoma are amazing. I'd love to see it. I'll need a tour, this place changes so fast. When does planting begin? I know we'll need all our hands here when the time comes."

Sonoma arrives as Kate asks her question to Flint. She replies "Full fledge planting will be soon I have been waiting for the weather to calm a bit. It has been an unusual year the seedlings for many of the transplantable items were begun shortly after we purchased the land and are in beds along the back of the tunnel and the cellar of the house. I have begun to harden them off but am still slightly afraid of the storm season.

Direct seeding for grains and hay can begin right before the full moon at the end of the month. I have only limited planted planned for this year but we should be self-sufficient with enough extra to begin making back the investment provided we do not have a disaster. I plan to expand the cash crops next year. This year I though I would mostly concentrate on the animals as that seemed to be what would be most immediately profitable and interested more of the partners."

"Well, horses are where my knowledge is. I had never even thought of crops until you brought it up. It's a very lucky thing you decided to partner. Will you need me to hold off on starting the school so I can help with the planting?"

Jake notes that there are considerably more animals present than he expected, far more than just those recently acquired from the Cowboy Gang. On the ride out, Jake and Katherine chat randomly. Several times he looks over his shoulder back at Promise City. "I wonder if Ruby is all right." When Katherine questions him further he says, "Oh, I know she is fine with the old coot. Just jumpy I guess."

Jake chats with Sonoma and Flint for a few minutes, each time the conversation comes around to what Ruby is up to regarding the festival, their trip to tombstone, and the saloon changes she is planning. "Anything else you need Katherine? I am supposed to meet Ruby soon. We'll look for you, and if we don't see you we will ride out later."

"No, I think I'll be fine for now," Kate said with a warm smile. Standing just a bit closer than was really necessary, Kate laid her hand on his arm for a moment, then pulled it away as if he was on fire. "By the gods," she muttered and grabbed Jake's arm to pull him away. "There is something wrong here," she said, keeping her voice down. "All you can think about is Ruby, more so than usual, and all I can think about is touching you."

Jake grins from ear to ear and says, "So what did you think was wrong?" Kate caught herself sliding her hand up his arm and snatched it away. "Jake, I'm not kidding. I have never looked at you this way before today. Considering what we were talking about earlier, don't you think it's strange?" She started pacing a few short steps back and forth. "I got rid of my pendant, why am I feeling this? Does she have some other way of manipulating me?"

Jake frowns a bit and then laughs. "You could have kept that little nugget to yourself." Jake strokes his beard several times and an evil grin comes over his face. He grabs at Katherine and embraces her tightly and gives her a warm kiss on the lips. Before she can react, he pushes her away and leaps into his saddle.

Laughing he says, "I'm sure you'll be mad at me later. I think I know why you feel that way, I'm off to see what I can do about it. Sorry for the tease, Katherine Kale. I couldn't help myself, but you need another funny story." As his horse starts away, Jake pulls up and calls out, "I do care for you like a sister though." With that he gallops away laughing like a fool.

"Jake, you ass!" she shouted after him with a laugh. He really was rather charming, in his own way. She waited a moment until she got her breath again, then went back over to Flint and Sonoma. Sonoma watched as Jake grabs Kate and kisses her then rides off in a cloud of dust “You know that is the same look I got from Nanuet when I kissed him what is going on? I thought Jake was with Ruby"

"He is with Ruby. I..." Kate looked at Sonoma and remembered Mother Jimenez’s warning. "He was just giving me a hard time... I think. There are all sorts of oddities going on just now. I was hoping I could convince you to ride back into town with me later, Sonoma. Jake doesn't want me riding alone because of the Cowboy Gang. I can get you up to speed about them today."

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter 173, “High Emotions“, Sunday, March 26th, 1882, 1:00 PM

Minerva waits patiently while Clarisse describes at length her vision of how the festival should go. She then begins her reply, “Eight O’clock sounds like a good time to begin but I do not think that it is appropriate to ask Senora Kale to offer her building. It is still under renovation and I am fairly certain that she will not want others using it.

Senorita, I can see that you have given this a lot of consideration but you must keep leave the religious aspects of the festival to me. You must keep in mind that this is not just an ordinary Party. It is the most important Religious festival of the year. To truly honor Dionysus, It must last at least until after midnight and I must insist that we not risk insulting him by regulating the consumption of wine, Dionysus is known to have a temper and may make our crops and our livestock unfertile if we were to anger him. It would definitely not be in the best interest of the town to provoke him.

As I explained at services this morning, Wine is no ordinary liquor it is a product of a god. I have attempted to educate the masses as to it's possible effects, but part of the reason for it's consumption is to open oneself up to the voice of the god. The responsibility for it's consumption must be left up to the individual. After all, they are not children, unable to use their own judgment. As for marking off the streets and limiting access to only certain establishments? I am sorry but that would be unfair to a large portion of the businesses in town. No, The Costume Ball must be free and include all who wish to attend. I will not deny business to those who do not fall in the parameters that you have suggested. Now please, tell me, what sort of decorations have you come up with? and Have you had the opportunity to make up flyers yet?

Clarisse replies, "No Priestess, I have been planning out the ball. I understand what you are saying about wine, but it would be awful if people were to overindulge in drinking other spirits. That could lead to improper behavior and that would be disrespectful to the other gods." Minerva replies, "It would not be any different than it is on any other night. We cannot deny the merchants in town their business. Besides, I am sure that Deputy Marshall Martin, will keep the rowdy’s in line. He is such a commanding figure, do you not agree?"

Clarisse answers, "Oh, Chet...Deputy Marshall Martin is a wonderful man! But there are only five lawmen in this town and hundreds of people will be attending. If you can at least focus the events in a concentrated area then they would be able to supervise, but if you have things taking place simultaneously all over town without any limits on alcoholic consumption then chaos will reign. Mrs. Shultz had very stern warnings about tempting the Fates with too much disorder." Minerva replies, "Senorita, Do you respect my judgment as a Priestess of Olympus?"

Clarisse is taken back by the rebuke. She lowers her head and says softly "Please forgive me." Minerva says to Clarisse: "Senorita Townsend, I ask that you trust my judgment as a Priestess of Olympus. I know that I have placed you in an awkward position by asking you to run this committee, since others, who have hardened their hearts to him, may be whispering in your ear that Dionysus does not deserve to be recognized. That is quite untrue .Dionysus is far older than most other gods and is the only one to have been reborn. It is for this reason that it would be unwise not to pay him his due. He is a very powerful god."

"B...b...but Priestess," the young woman stammers. "That is not what they teach back in the East. The Priests at the Church, and Mrs. Schultz, they explained how Dionysus and Pan, they are the left-over gods. The only reason that the great gods of Olympus allow such degradation and vice to even exist is to be able to attract the heathens to the church, so that they can then learn about the more proper deities."

"It is not polite to refer to those who are innocent of our ways as heathens, Clarisse. Is a child to be considered a heathen because he cannot recite the names of the Twelve Powers?" she says in a mildly chastising tone. "I can see why you are confused if that is what you were taught, but to say that Dionysus, one of the oldest and most revered gods on the mount is a 'left-over god' ?,well your teachers have gone too far in their prejudices. It is lucky for you that I am here to set you straight before he turns his wrath on you for such blasphemy. But you did not know the error of your ways, so I would not fret if I were you. Perhaps that is why it was the gods will that you run the ball? It will give you the opportunity to set things right with him."





Minerva places her hand on Clarisse's shoulder and with a beaming smile says "I chose for you, Clarisse, for this most important task because I have great faith that you will head the will of he god and honor him well by throwing him a party such as has never been seen before. Now I must be going and I may be away for a day or so, but please come and visit me as I am quite anxious to hear all about your plans!"

Minerva gives Clarisse a big hug and leaves. Nanuet is waiting outside to walk her back to the Lucky Lady. "I think that went rather well," she musses,"…but we will shall see. Let us hurry before someone else finds a need for me." Nanuet follows Minerva back to the Lucky Lady.

As Ruby makes her way further out the Cantina and towards the Lucky Lady she feels something change. Her light and happy mood remains but the air almost feels heavy. Heavy with what, she wasn't sure but as she glances around the city everyone she looks at or hears seems to be experiencing some sort of exaggerated emotion.

Ruby shakes it off as her new view of the world, now that she had someone who truly loved her everything looked different. Back at the Lucky Lady Ruby takes a seat and waits for Jake. Minerva happens to wander into the Lucky Lady. "Afternoon Minerva, why haven't you left yet?"

Minerva still frazzled from her visit with Clarisse and out of patience snaps at Ruby, "So why haven't you approached the saloon owners yet? The festival is less than a week away!” "Why should I have to approach the saloon owners?” Ruby replies, “They have absolutely nothing to do with arranging entertainment." Minerva exclaims, "Well were exactly do you think that the entertainment is going to be held and who is going to do the entertaining?"

Ruby replies, “This is supposed to be a town festival and the entertaining is supposed to be occurring outside on the stage that Chester is supposed to be building. We can’t choose one saloon over another! And I’m going to be doing the entertaining, with Madge and her girls.”

Minerva answers, "Don't you think that it would be fairer to offer all the saloons the same opportunity to be involved? As you said it is a town festival. Some of the other saloons may grumble if only saloon involved in the entertainment was the Lucky Lady, especially since the entertainment coordinator is one of the owners. Adair just accused me of pulling a sham in conjunction with the Vigilance Committee and he doesn't have any reason to dislike me. I can't imagine what he would accuse the Lucky Lady of.”

Ruby says, “Um, Madge is from the Gay Lady Saloon. Priestess, I don’t think you have learned much of this town in your couple of weeks here. The only other saloons in town with entertainment, that isn’t prostitution, and I’m assuming that isn’t what you mean by entertainment, is the Comique, which we share Clarisse, and the Palace and as I’m not allowed in there and Mr. Adair wants to kill me so I’m not likely to deal with him. I suppose I could go there anyway and try to get some of their second rate singers to help out. If that will make you feel better I will.”

Ruby thinks about her next words carefully, “Look, you came here to Promise City, got an idea for a festival, then dumped all the responsibility on everyone else. YOU are the priestess and this is YOUR festival. You are responsible for taking charge of it, not us. And you should especially not be complaining about how people are going about the tasks YOU assigned everyone, even without some of them agreeing to do so. So you can’t complain if people don’t do things the way you want them done.”

Minerva's voice rises a bit higher "I did not come up with an idea for a festival anymore than I came up with the idea for a desert ceremony. It is the will of the gods and as the preacher of this community; I am insuring that the people honor the gods properly. And, it is not MY festival to run. The responsibility belongs to the townspeople. It is their town that will benefit! I do not stand to gain anything but a headache from any of this. My JOB is to guide them, not to be part of every damned committee for every damned activity that someone comes up with! Now I hear a rumor that they want to include fencing matches and I'm sure that somehow someone will try to make THAT my responsibility also!”

"Their town? I thought this was your town too. You can always cancel this festival if it’s getting to be too much responsibility for you.” Ruby huffs. “Maybe you should have made that clearer at the beginning then. I agreed to help you out and do you a favor, not honor your gods!" Ruby snaps back, "You put people who you barely know in charge of events that can ruin the whole thing! Like Clarisse taking care of the costume ball. She will ruin it and take all the fun out!"

Minerva eyes widen in frustrated surprise. "You wanted to run the Ball?! How was I to know that you wanted to run the Ball? I had to put a gun to your head to convince you to head the entertainment!” Ruby says, “I didn’t say I wanted to organize the costume ball. But it was my idea and I wanted it to be fun for everyone.” Minerva replies, "Then why don't you do the neighborly thing and offer to lend a hand?" Ruby says, “It will not work out for Clarisse and I to work together. This I know for sure. I’m trying to help YOU here Minerva and as far as I’m concerned I’m already leading a hand, more than I would do for most others.”

Minerva is frustrated and angry from dealing with the saloon owners and Clarisse. It seems that everyone wants a piece of her, but she appalled when she realizes that she is now yelling at her friend and the fight goes out of her like a deflated balloon. She takes a deep breath, suddenly bone weary, and speaks more gently, "Ruby, forgive me, por favor, I do not mean to take my frustrations out on you. You just happen to be in the line of fire,” She says with a sheepish grin. "I know that you mean well, but the Ball is a full time commitment and Clarisse has more time to focus on it and, well, I was trying to involve her for Senor Chester's sake. He seems quite smitten with her and I thought that perhaps I had found a way to make her fit in.”

“I must also admit that I am using her as a way to extend an olive branch to the Vigilance Committee. It would be unfair of me to exclude anyone from the festival planning, including the Vigilance Committee and Clarisse is the easiest one of that bunch to deal with. For all of her bluster she is still quite willing to follow orders. She is young and her schooling has trained her to respect the wishes of a 'Priestess of Olympus.' She is so thrilled to be able to plan the theme, send out flyers, and decorate. And she can work with Senor Chester overseeing the building of the dance floors."

Ruby relaxes at Minerva’s apology. “Clarisse is not on the Vigilance Committee, she just attends the meetings. I don’t know how that is going to help do anything but ruin the party. I’ve never seen her thrilled about anything, she is quiet and reserved.” Ruby continues, "In my mind the ball is dancing in the street with costumes and music. There is no etiquette required. That would certainly keep people away, this is a town full of miners, what do they know about etiquette? And I have had much more training in that area than Clarisse anyway!"

Minerva answers, “Si, I agree with you, you do have more training, but you are already organizing the entertainment and with the imminent war with the Cowboy Gang, to distract you more would be dangerous for us all. Ruby we need you to stay focused on figuring out a way to keep the town safe from Johnny Ringo.” “How did I get in charge of protecting the town from Johnny Ringo?” Ruby sighs, “Well, I know what you mean anyway. I have just been looking forward to the dance and I don’t have much faith in Clarisse to make everyone feel welcome, myself included.”

"We never seem to have any difficulty making our own fun, I am sure that next weekend will be no exception!" Minerva chuckles. She adds, “By the way I must apologize to you and Senor Jake for my blowing up after the sermon this morning. But that horrible dream was still so fresh in my mind, and when Senor Jake tried to cheer my by making light of it... well,” she shrugs her shoulders sheepishly, “I guess I just snapped. I seem to be quite emotional lately! Is this a normal part of love?”

“Luckily Jake isn’t the kind of man to get easily insulted about things like that. It’s fine, we know you are under a lot of stress. I can imagine the dream must have been horrible. We’ll all be glad when this is over, one way or the other.” Finally Ruby smiles and embraces her friend, “Yes, love makes you crazy and makes you do crazy, crazy things. You can’t think straight when real love is involved and it gets you in plenty of trouble.”

When Ruby embraces Minerva, Minerva can feel that something is wrong. She pulls back and searches Ruby's face. “The pendant, you gave it to Senor Jake didn't you? I can feel its absence, Ruby. I think that you must get it back." “Why? It’s mine to do with what I will. What difference does it make?” Minerva replies, “I do not know but something is wrong. But, there is something about you that is not quite right! "I do not care for you to hug me. It is quite unpleasant!"

Ruby is taken aback. "What? Are you feeling ok?" Ruby reaches out to touch Minerva's arm. "I am happy today because Aphrodite has given me what I wanted. That is what is different about me, how can you say that is not right. It's the most right and natural thing in the world." Ruby furrows her brows. "But why would you insult me so and say it is unpleasant to be near me?"

Minerva jumps back, “Por Favor, Ruby Do not touch me!" I do not know what is happening and I am not trying to insult you, but euuuu! She says as if trying to get bugs off of her. "Something is very, very wrong!" "And you think it's the pendant?" Ruby says insulted anyway. "What a poor excuse. I think you're just mad about me giving you my mind about your festival. But if that's the way it is..." She reaches towards Minerva and rips the pendant off her neck. "Any better?" she asks with a raised eyebrow.

Nanuet had followed Minerva back to the Lucky Lady. When she began her conversation with Ruby he continued the work that he had started earlier and apparently remained unnoticed. He begins to worry about two women as they squabble with each other but becomes particularly concerned with Minerva when she remarks about the presence of Ruby being unsettling.

"Now Minerva, what has come over you. That is just not right!" He walks over to her and spins her around. "What has come over you? This is unlike you. Snapping at everyone and then telling Ruby her mere presence disturbs you. Perhaps the festival has overwhelmed you."

Nanuet spins Minerva around just as Ruby pulls the pendant from her neck. "Get your hands off of me! I am not trying to insult her! Something is Wrong, I tell you! When she touches me it is as though desert beetles are crawling all over me! Do you not feel it? Touch her yourself and you will see. You do not understand, Nanuet. she gave away the Pendant!"

Jake rides hard into town and over to the El Parador looking for Senorita Florencia. Not finding her there he heads back to the Lucky Lady. Jake walks into the Lucky Lady to see Ruby, Minerva and Nanuet speaking loudly and gesticulating wildly. It does not look pretty. "What in Hades is going on here!" he yells loudly and walks into the middle of them.

"Nanuet, quick pour some drinks. Minerva, I need to talk to you NOW, out that door. Ruby," Jake grabs her and kisses her passionately, "I love you. Sit down." Ruby's smile returns to her face as soon as she sees Jake. She had been seconds away from throwing Minerva out of her saloon. Instead she does as Jake says and sits at the table, waiting for her drink.

Jake grabs Minerva's arm and drags her out the back door. Nanuet spins between Jake and Minerva and confusion overwhelms him as Jake practically dragged Minerva away. Nanuet does as Jake says as he seems to be the only one making any kind of sense and heads to the bar to start pouring drinks. "Miss Ruby I apologize for Minerva's behavior. She is not herself. I don't know what is wrong but there is something strange and unnatural going on." She glances at Minerva's pendant, still in her hand. "What is going on Nanuet?"

Ruby exclaims, "She needs to apologize for herself, but I appreciate the gesture." Ruby throws the pendant on the table. "What is going on around here? When I was walking earlier it seemed like everyone was under some sort of spell, so happy, so sad, so angry." Ruby shrugs. "Me, I'm happy," she smiles then drinks her whiskey. "Sit with me, Nanuet."

Nanuet pours four drinks and carries them over to the table where Ruby is sitting. He does not sit however but begins pacing back and forth. "I don't know what is going on. Minerva comes to me this morning speaking of these horrible dreams. I calmed her down and we spent some time together just enjoying the morning. Then since her sermon she has been exploding at everybody and then telling you that you make her skin crawl. I have no clue what is going on but I know I don't like it."

He steps up to the table, grabs a drink and slams it back quickly. "I'm going to need another one of these." "Me too." She takes Jake's and drinks it down. "Maybe you should go after Minerva, you know her better than anyone. How could she say that about me? I don't understand."

Jake drags Minerva, who is still yelling and trying to pull away from him, out the door. All he can make out is something about Ruby and the pendant. "Yes, yes," and he gently pushes her up against the wall in back of the Lucky Lady. He unbuttons his duster and then starts unbuttoning his shirt.

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter 174, “Have you gone mad?”, Sunday, March 26th, 1882, 1:30 PM

Sonoma tells Kate, “When Nanuet was last here I got the feeling that he needed his space so I decided to do as he asked and make the ranch as profitable as possible. He seemed uncomfortable with my affection so I took that to mean that I was moving too fast with our relationship. I realize that as an elf things often move much slower than with human relationships and we hadn't even know each other for very long before things just felt right for me with him. I realized that I had moved far too quickly because I had gotten use the to pace of humans living in Promise city. I thought it would be much better for me to stay out here and let some time pass before I talked with him again. I care for him greatly and do not want to push him away by seeming too forward.”

Kate replies, "Sonoma, being human, it's hard for me to understand the slower pace elves would take. To me, Ruby and Jake took it very fast. When I met Tom I knew there was something, but it was months before we even spent time alone together. Well, as alone as society allows, and more than a year before we became engaged.

I don't know Nanuet's mind, dear. I think he's confused, and perhaps things did happen too fast for him. He lived for one purpose for a long time, and when that purpose was fulfilled he was at a loss. Then a pretty, intelligent, warm girl comes along and sets his mind to reeling. Perhaps time is what he needs. But that doesn't need to stop you from riding back with me tonight. We don't have to see Nanuet. You can visit your great-grandfather, and Ginnie would be excited to show you everything she's learned."

Sonoma replies, “It is very kind of you to say that. I set Nanuet's mind reeling for he does the same with my heart. I do miss him greatly and wish to be with him however I do not want him to feel that I am chasing him if he needs time away to be with his friends. I have been away from town for a long time and do wish to see what Ginnie has learned and I should bring Dorita some of the spring lamb... Give me a little while to get everything arranged and I will return with you to town.”

Kate replies, "There's no great hurry. I have some work to do here, and then I'll help you get things together," Kate said and hugged Sonoma. Kate took a few steps closer to Flint where he had gone to give the ladies some privacy. "Flint, has Naki-yai been here lately?" He lowers his head and says in a sad voice "No, my Etenia is gone. She went back to the Apache and did not return. I can only presume that they did not approve of our going into town for those several days."

"I'm sorry Flint," Kate said sincerely, putting her hand on his shoulder. "I like her very much and had hoped to see her. I must speak to the Apache today, do you know how she usually went back?" "I never really paid attention to where she came from or went to. Mostly, off that way," he said, sadly waving.

"It's alright, Flint. I think I'll save my visit to the Apache for tomorrow. I'm going to get Sonoma into town. I'm sorry to leave you with the chores for the day, but I'm sure you can handle it. I'll get Sonoma back to you soon." Kate patted the dwarf's shoulder and ran after Sonoma. "Let me help you get ready and we can go into town."

Kate helped Sonoma put together her packages, finding that handling raw meat was an excellent cure for the last vestiges of the desire that had been trying overcome her in Jake's presence. The two women went out and packed up their horses. "There. I'm sure your family will be glad to see you. I don't work tonight, so we can have a nice night at the El Parador. Are you ready to go Sonoma?"

Sonoma replies, “I guess so although I feel that I should stay at the ranch because I feel bad about leaving Flint with all the animal chores. However, I guess it might be time for me to go back at least for a little while. Who knows? Maybe if we're both at the Cantina Nanuet be more like himself. The walks were very nice,” Sonoma says with a faraway look in her eyes and a blush coming to her cheeks.

"Yes, I remember going for walks and rides with Tom. Those quiet times were some of my favorite times, when there is nothing to do but enjoy one another's company." Kate kept talking as they mounted up and got moving, careful not to challenge any thoughts of love Sonoma had.

In town, Chester spent the earlier part of the afternoon drawing up plans for the stage. They're crude, but get the general idea across. He goes to the lumberyard to see Mr. Cassidy. Cassidy takes a look at the plans and laughs. "Not much experience with woodworking, Marshall? Give it to me and come back tomorrow. I'll draw these up proper like and figure out how much lumber you need. OK?" "That's fine. I also need a podium for the award ceremony. Can you do that, too?" He replies, "I should have some pre-drawn plans around somewhere."

Chester stops by to visit Clarisse. "What's wrong, Clarisse?" She buries her face into his shoulder. "I think I've disappointed the priestess. She thought I was favoring certain businesses and she didn't like the idea of restricting drinking." Chester pats her back. "There, there. This is a big event for her. All the town will be watching. She just wants the festival to honor the gods properly. I'll talk to her later."

Chester walks into the Lucky Lady. "Is Minerva around. I want to talk to her. She has Clarisse upset over this ball." Ruby replies, "She's not feeling well right now Chet. It's not a good time."
Ruby points to a chair. "How's the new job going? You missed our fun last night, I thought you were going to join us."

Chester takes the seat. "It's going well. I was keeping an eye on all the saloons. The boxing was fun to see. That Finnegan is some fighter. The challengers didn't stand a chance. I told Nanuet about Foote. Did he follow him? After the fight, there was something called the dance of the veils or something like that." He blushes. "It was very, um, nice. But don't tell Clarisse that. Anyway, at the end of the dance, the dancer said 'acolyte' and mentioned Aphrodite. It was like I was in a dream. Weird, huh?

Ruby's eyes widen. "Dance of the Veils? I may had heard about that..." She looks at Chester curiously, "Since when is the Dance of the Veils part of a lawman's duty, Chet?" He replies, "Um, er, I was looking for trouble at the Palace. I had to stay. It's my job." He gives an unconvincing grin. She raises an eyebrow at him.

While she is waiting for his response, she picks up Minerva's pendant and puts it around her neck. "There, for safe keeping. Now she won't be able to get it back so easily," Ruby says out loud with a shake of her head. Chester comments, "That's funny. The dancer last night had a necklace too. Hers had a long diamond on it, though. While I was watching it, I felt sleepy."

Outside, as Jake has backed Minerva up against a wall and begins to unbutton his shirt she exclaims, "Senor Jake What are YOU DOING?” Nanuet hears Minerva yelling something from behind the saloon. He puts the glass down on the table and runs to the back of the saloon. He sees Minerva struggling to make her way back inside and sees Jake working the buttons no his shirt.
"Just what in Hades is going on here? Minerva are you OK? Jake what's going on?" Ruby hears that and stands. Chester gets up from his chair. "Ruby, I better see what's going on." She says, "I'm going with you. Minerva must be going mad." She follows Chester out the door.

Minerva slaps Jake soundly across the face This entire town has gone loco!" Minerva continues to try to break away and make her way back to Ruby. "Ow!" Jake yells. "Damn you women, can't you make up your mind whether you are going to slap me or kiss me!" He pushes her back again towards the wall. "Look at me! Where in Hades did you get these things?" He says waving the olive leaf pendant that hangs around his neck.

"Why you dirty @#$%^&, Get YOUR HANDS OFF OF ME!" Minerva claws at him and yells for help. Jake covers his face and ducks, "No, wait, listen, ow!" Minerva, now furious continues to fight like a wildcat. Jake steps back still covering his head. Chester headed out the kitchen to see Minerva hits Jake. "

"Don't you think," Jake says ducking and the blood running down his cheek, "that you have," he ducks another swing, "caused enough," and then she whacks him across the temple and he falls backwards, "trouble." “I have caused trouble!” She yells as she slaps him again, “Who do you think you are?!...dragging me out to the back of the saloon to have your way with me!?” "I don't see how you can think that," he says lying in the dirt with blood trickling down his cheek. "It seems like nothing is going my way."

Chester yells, “What are you doing? Stop that.” He tries to separate the pair. Nanuet forces himself between the two and screams at the top of his lungs. "STOP THIS NONSENSE!" Then grabs Minerva's arms and forces them to her sides. "Everybody inside now. No more secrets, no more going off anywhere. Everybody inside and take a seat!" "LET GO OF ME!" she yells and kicks Nanuet for good measure "I AM NOT DONE WITH HIM YET!

Nanuet is unable to maintain his hold on Minerva after she kicks him. He does his best to keep her away from Jake. "Chester, get Jake inside." he says struggling with Minerva. "She needs to calm herself down." Minerva exclaims, "Have you gone mad? He was taking his clothes off! Look at his shirt! He had me pinned against the wall! Nanuet Let Go Of ME!" Jake exclaims, "No, wait, listen... didn't I already say that?" He wipes his cheek and looks at his blood stained hand. "Yuck."

Ruby sees Minerva acting uncontrollably and Jake's scratched face. She quickly glances around the street to make sure no one is looking then starts an incantation. Minerva's face goes blank and she begins to collapse. Nanuet's reflexes are quick and he manages to catch her before she strikes the ground. Ruby states, "Thank goodness. What in Hades is wrong with her?? She just went crazy..." Ruby moves towards Jake and touches his face gently. "Are you alright?" "Ouch." He winces. "Help me up." As he gets to his feet he mumbles, "There never seems to be any middle ground with me." He points to the saloon, "Let's go inside I need that drink."

Chester reaches for Jake, when Minerva collapses. "What just happened? Is she OK? Jake what is going on. I hear yelling, then I find you bleeding and Minerva hitting people." Nanuet states, "OK, give me some space!" Nanuet carries Minerva inside and lays her down on the ground as gently as possible. "Somebody get me some water!" he says, the words choked by his emotions. He begins checking her over for any obvious signs of why she collapsed. "She's fine!" Ruby exclaims, "I put her crazy ass to sleep." She reaches out her hand to Jake and helps him up.

They all head back inside. Jake says, "Chet, I needed to talk to her quickly before everyone else came out." He sits down with a grimace. "I guess she didn't like my manners." The olive leaf pendant hangs loose from his unbuttoned shirt. He motions to Ruby to come sit with him, "But bring a drink." Ruby fetches Jake a whiskey and sits on his lap before handing him the drink. She takes a clean napkin and licks it, then cleans off his face. "Not so bad, just a scratch."

Nanuet says to Ruby, "So you just put her to sleep? Just like that? How do I wake her up? She's not crazy, something is influencing her. You know this is not how she acts!" Jake takes a sip of whiskey and winces slightly at having his cheek cleaned. "When you think it is safe to wake up Miss Wildcat there, go ahead. I don't want to have to explain this twice." He notices Ruby is wearing an olive leaf pendant. He asks, "You have another one?" She replies, "It's hers. I yanked it off her neck when she went crazy. She seemed to think me giving mine to you had something to do with the fact that I made her skin crawl."

Ruby says, "Maybe she needs to sleep it off. Yes, I put her to sleep! She was screaming and attacking people, you included. If it was someone else doing that to us we would shoot them. It's simple to wake her up, just shake her. But give her a few moments." Ruby grabs the glass from Jake and takes a drink before handing it back. "Well, what could it be? Did she get poisoned somehow?"

Chester asks Ruby, "Where did you get those necklaces? Maybe they're causing this." "Ruby, would you take it off please?" Jake looks serious. "Just put it on the table." "Why?" she states. "As far as I can tell she is physically fine." Nanuet says still kneeling over her. "What else could make her act like this. She must be under a spell of some sort. Removing the necklace didn't seem to make a difference and you are wearing one now without a problem, the same one she wore as a matter of fact."

Jake states, "I don't know for sure, but that one does not belong to you. This one does." He points to the one around his neck. "I promised you I would wear it and I am. So humor me and take that one off." He looks at Nanuet. "Unfortunately, we will need the priestesses help to figure it out. I don't know if I'll survive that again though."

Ruby states, "I only put it on to keep her from getting at it." Ruby pulls Minerva's necklace off and throws it on the table. "The effects won't last long. If you think you are ready to contain her, wake her up now. Or if you think we should leave then we will."

Nanuet states, "I isn’t waking her up with either of you two present that's for sure. How long will your spell last Ruby?" Jake states, "My good sense tells me that is a fine idea, except we need to get to the bottom of this soon before somebody really gets hurt." He winces again as Ruby cleans his cheek. "Somebody else."

Ruby kisses his cheek. "There all better baby. Now I have something I need to go do. I promised I would do it so I have to. But I'll be back soon." Ruby kisses Jake on the lips. "Maybe you should go for a walk and let them handle this when Minerva wakes up." Chester suggests, “How about you go to the other side of the room before Nanuet wakes her up?" Jake says, "Ok, Ok, I'll come back in a little while."

Nanuet suggests, "Maybe it's best if you leave the room. Or I guess I could take her upstairs to another room and wake her there. Let me do that, so she is not in the same surroundings when she wakes up. Sorry about that scratch Jake." Nanuet scoops Minerva up gently trying his best not to wake her. "That's twice in a few minutes that I've had to apologize for her, I wish I knew what was going on." Nanuet heads to his room and lays Minerva on the bed.

Nanuet turns back after laying Minerva down and gently shuts the door to avoid making noise. He kneels down next to her and begins a prayer, asking his ancestors to relieve Minerva of any ills that are inflicting her either physically or mentally. He prays for her well being and health, for her protection and for her safety. He breathes deeply and then attempts to shake her awake.

Chester mutters, "How is she? I hope that spell doesn't last long. She'll be mad when she gets up, though." Jake buttons up his shirt and moves the leaf inside of it. "I'll head over to see Conrad Booth. Maybe he'll be there and not punch me out." Ruby says, "Good idea, let's go." They walk outside together. She then comments, "That was very strange."

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter 175, “Aphrodite’s Priestess”, Sunday, March 26th, 1882, 2:00 PM

Jake tells Ruby, "Yes, everyone is acting strange." He decides it is not the right time to tell her that Katherine was attracted to him. "If you are feeling strange, just come back to the saloon. I'll be back soon." She replies, "So will I." Ruby decides now is the time to try to visit the Palace Saloon, to get her mind off of Minerva's crazy behavior. She fixes her hair, adjusts her bosom and heads over. She walks right up to the door and waits to be greeted.

Thankfully the three faces she hopes to avoid seeing - Evan Adair, Kitty Trent and Deacon McCoy are not there. The place is almost deserted, with bartender Dave Carleen being behind the bar and one working girl on duty. There are only two customers sitting at a table talking to each other in slurred speech. Ruby wanders in casually and walks up to the bar. "A whiskey please." While she waits she makes sure to lean forward on the bar just a little bit. "So, is there anyone around here I can speak to about getting some entertainment?"

He replies, "Evan and Kitty aren't around at the moment. Hold on." He yells to the woman in the room "Hey Fannie, head upstairs and see if Little Britches is up yet!" The woman does as instructed. Five minutes pass and a young woman comes walking down the stairs. Ruby had seen her around town and in the Palace two months earlier but there is something different about her now. Ruby sees a glow around the woman and a sense of warmth and passion that she has only felt once before, in the ceremony with Minerva and Kate a few nights earlier.

She then sees that the woman has in her hand a red rose almost identical to that of Ruby's, including the special coating that it received in the ceremony. Ruby approaches her, and with a slight bit of awe in her voice she speaks. “Good afternoon, I’m Ruby, Ruby West.” She extends her hand to the woman. The woman gives Ruby a deep hug and says "Sister!" Ruby feels warmth and happiness in response despite the sense of confusion by the woman's actions.

Ruby hugs her back, although reluctantly. “Have we met before? And if I might ask, where did you get that rose?” "We are sisters...followers of Aphrodite. One minute please." She stops and turns to the two men at the table and says, "Out, be gone from my sight." The two men stand and stagger out the door. She then turns to the bartender and says "You were not invited to witness this private moment either. Please leave and lock the door behind you." He does as instructed, leaving them alone in the Palace's main room.

Ruby stares at the woman in wonder. “How did you do that?” She replies, "The Gods can have a strong influence on a weak mind" Ruby looks at her with wide eyes. “I should warn you, I’m not supposed to be in here. Mr. Adair doesn’t like me.” The woman replies, "I am not overly fond of him myself. But he can serve Aphrodite just as any other man in this town can. His saloon is now my Temple, and a worthy Temple it is. All followers of Aphrodite are welcome here. Please feel free to come and join us for our worship service next Sunday."

Ruby asks, “What is it that you do to serve Aphrodite? She asked me to honor her and I have been trying to think of something appropriate. She has given me what she knew I wanted and I need to thank her in return. I’m not sure I want to wait until next Sunday. Besides, he won’t let me in. He’s actually tried to kill me.” The woman replies, "He will not any longer, I will not allow it. You can help me honor her by making this community one of Love, dedicated to the Love of our Goddess! The time is near! The festival next weekend will bring great praises to Aphrodite and make this place a beacon of worship to her!”

Ruby stands blinking at the woman. “Well...I have been trying to bring some couples together. And I have taught my boyfriend what love is about. What is it you do during services? The services of the priestess Minerva are rather boring. I’m not really the church going type.” The woman replies, "At services we sing and dance and tell the men how to honor the Goddess! My acolytes and I use the time to plan against those who would oppose the Goddess of Love and her church, the closed-minded prudes on the Vigilance Committee, and our enemy, Ares the God of War and his hand-picked priest of this region Johnny Ringo."

Ruby smiles, “I can do all of those things. It seems our goals are the same.” Ruby pauses in thought. “But Johnny Ringo is a priest of Ares? I thought he was a wizard. He has been my enemy for some time and I would like nothing more than to destroy him.” She says, "I am not aware that he knows any wizardry? Only that he is a follower and priest of the War God. Our goals are the same, I am glad that we found one another sister. I sense that you could be the strongest of all of my acolytes! Your singing will honor the Goddess!"

“Maybe he’s been a priest all along and we’ve been wrong?” Ruby thinks out loud. “But no, he has spell books…” She shakes her head. “What is it you want me to do...Miss… I don’t even know your name!”

She replies, “"It is not what I want but what the Goddess Aphrodite wants. You need to ask her that yourself, although I can help you to do that. But first, I wish to know more of you. Come, help yourself to anything over at the bar and join me." The woman heads to the bar and opens up a new bottle of red wine, pouring it into a long thin glass. She then heads over towards a long red-velvet couch with silk pillows and reclines on it.

Ruby leans over the bar and helps herself to the Kentucky Bourbon. She joins the woman, sitting on the edge of the couch. She pours herself a generous glass. "What do you want to know?" She says, "I am curious how long you have worshipped the Goddess and what brought you here to this community."

Ruby says, "I don't think you could say I worship the goddess. I had this dream, only recently. When I woke I had this," she holds up her hand with the small heart shaped fresh scar, "And a perfect red rose, just like yours. Aphrodite was in my dream, as was Cupid. And she said I was her favored one and she wanted to give me the things I have been missing all these years. She only wanted me to love her in return. So, I am new to this worshipping thing."

"As for here? I drifted here," she shrugs. "I was in Tombstone. And before that... all over. Never happy. Until here," she smiles. The woman replies, "I believe that the Goddess brought us both here. This is our destiny." "By this you mean this town? I'm not so sure”, Ruby smiles. "My destiny is with a man and if he leaves I leave too. The goddess approves of him and us." Ruby looks around the saloon, "You didn't answer my question, what do you want me to do? At least tell me what your name is."

She replies, “My name is Jane Boag, although most folks have called me by the unflattering nickname of "Little Britches". "Nice to meet you Jane," Ruby extends her hand and the two woman touch each other's hands gently. "I probably shouldn't linger here too much longer. How will I know what you want me to do?” She says, “Ruby, sister, I do not want you to do anything. You are the only person in this town who I do not need to give direction to, Aphrodite already speaks to you as she does to me.”

Ruby states, "Then I am right to listen to what she tells me in my heart. That is a relief to me to hear. The festival is next weekend." Suddenly Ruby smiles again, "Oh the reason I stopped by. Entertainment for the festival. I'm in charge, if you can believe that," she says flipping her hair. "Would anyone from the Palace like to participate?" Jane finally lets Ruby's hand go.

Jane states, "That is a great task, as the festival is to honor the Greek Pantheon. Thankfully you have found a priestess of that pantheon to assist. I will be happy to help you coordinate the entertainment. The worship service earlier today has left me drained but I will seek you tomorrow and we can work on this together." Ruby says, "Oh, I have heard someone here did the Dance of the Veils. Was that you?" Jane replies, The Dance honors Aphrodite, it is the ritual that begins the service of worship. "I certainly know that dance can set a man's heart on fire," she smiles mischievously.

"Rest and I will try to stop by tomorrow then." Ruby stands slowly, hesitant to leave as she doesn't want the passionate and accepting feelings that are surrounding her to disappear. Jane stands and walks her to the door. From the moment Ruby saw the woman standing on the stairs she had such a commanding presence that it is surprising to find that she stands a mere five-foot-two, a half-foot shorter than Ruby. Jane unlocks the door and says, "Until tomorrow." She then leans forward and gives Ruby a short kiss on the lips.

Ruby returns the kiss almost as if not under her own control. She doesn't answer the priestess, just gracefully exits the Palace. Once outside she touches her fingers to her lips, the passionate and warm feelings inside her growing stronger. The air still felt heavy and now almost exotic to Ruby as she meandered her way back to the Lucky Lady.

Jake walked over to Conrad Booth's home and knocked on the door. He hears somebody stumbling around inside. Conrad Booth opens the door. This is the only time that Jake has seen him without a suit and tie on, although he is still wearing dress pants and a dress shirt with only the top button not fastened. "Oh, I was expecting Mother Jimenez" he states. Jake says, "Do you have a few minutes for me? I have some questions you may be able to help me with and a favor to ask."

He replies, "Oh, why yes. Please come in." Jake enters, noting a sweet honey smell in the room and potted plants in the four corners. As soon as the door is shut he feels very different, as though a great weight has just been lifted from him. His emotions are no longer jumbled up and while he still longs to be with Ruby those feelings reside only in his mind and not elsewhere on his anatomy.

"Hmmm..." Jake says and then shakes his head. "Thanks for seeing me. Let's try the favor first, it is the easiest. Do you still have your costumes from the stage days? I need something for the ball. I was hoping for something like an English gentlemen, cape and all. I'd take whatever you would loan me though, I'm stuck and costumes are not something you find readily in a mining town."

He replies, "We think alike in that regard. I do not presently have any but when I heard that there would be a costume ball I took the liberty of sending a telegram off to San Francisco. Based upon the reply I can expect a container with costumes to arrive probably mid-week, so will let you know when they are here."

"Thank you very much." Jake takes a seat. "You are one of the best set of eyes and ears in this town. I needs some information if you are willing. I bet you already know why I want to know. If you don't feel safe telling me, I'd understand."

Jakes asks him if he knows if John Bell, Lester Olivier, George Otis Grosvenor, Rudolph Foote, Sherwin Allen or Riff 'Alabama' McNally are in town or anything about them. "We do know that Foote is in town." Conrad replies, "I'm afraid that I've been in here for the last few days so don't know what is going on in town at the moment. I've met Grosvenor and Allen before, they've played at Fisk's table at the Long Branch. They don't live in town, I think they live in Galeyville, or at least they used to. I may have also met some of the others but don't recognize the names."

Jake then asks if he knows where Ike Sherman from the Papago took off to a few days ago. Also, does he hear much about the Indian Head or any of the older places Ringo's friends used to hang out at.

Conrad says, "Ringo himself doesn't come around here, I think the incidents in the past few weeks were the first time he's set foot in Promise City. That's actually rather odd given that he's seen regularly in both Tombstone and Galeyville. You'd think that with this town as the only community in between he'd stop here. I heard that Ike was just on a supply run buying goods for his store. I heard that he'll be back tonight or tomorrow. That Merchant's Association meeting the other day was called on rather short notice since they didn't know when you guys would be back from Tombstone. I'm not surprised more folks didn't miss it."

"Are you really sick? You don't look it." Jake scratches his beard. "That was rather rude, wasn't it. Again, I won't be offended if you tell me it's none of my business. Do you need anything, since you don't seem to be going out?" Conrad replies, "I've been feeling poorly these past few days Mr. Cook. Mother Jimenez has brought me some herbal soups which have been very beneficial, they have helped to clear my head so that I can now think clearly. Mr. Cook, could you please do me a favor?"

Jake answers, "Ask away, you have been very kind to me." Conrad replies, "I anticipate that I will be back to my former self by tomorrow. Could you please ask your employee, Mrs. Kale, if she might be willing to join me for a picnic lunch? Our previous time together went poorly, but I was to blame for that and owe her an apology. I will plan on picking her up at the El Parador tomorrow at around 11:00 AM unless I hear otherwise."

He replies, "Certainly, Conrad. It is true that Katherine works for us, but she is more a friend than an employee. You know that. I'll tell her." Jake bids him good day and thanks him again. After leaving Booth's house Jake just about stumbles when a wave of feeling hits him. "Damn," he mumbles, "got to do something about that one way or another." He makes his way to the Lucky Lady.

Minerva slowly opens her eyes and sees the look of concern on Nanuet's face. "Where am I?" she says as she sits up. Nanuet replies, “You're upstairs in my room in the Lucky Lady. How do you feel? Ruby had to cast a sleep spell on you, you were acting crazy. Remind me to watch out for your kick next time you are scrapping OK?"

She replies, “I was not the one acting crazy. Senor Jake came in to the saloon grabbed me and dragged me all the way to the back, where he then pushed me up against the wall and began taking his shirt off. When I tried to walk away he pushed me against the wall again and said that I should make up my mind whether I wanted to hit him or kiss him. So I hit him! Didn't you hear me yelling for help? He has gone Loco and then you find it necessary to restrain me? You are all loco!"

Nanuet replies, "He was just trying to show you the pendant and wanted to ask you questions about it. Not sure why he had to bring you out back to do that, and yes, everyone seems to be acting crazy lately. I'm not sure why, but you seem to have the worst of it at the moment. Besides, I wasn't trying to restrain you, I was trying to hold you lovingly in my arms." Nanuet winks, trying to lighten the mood for a moment.

She replies, “I certainly feel like I'm surrounded by all this craziness but I am Not the one who is acting crazy! I merely tried to explain to Ruby that there was something terribly wrong with her. I could sense it. It's because she gave Jake her pendant. Each time she touched me I was overcome with this terrible repulsive feeling. I wasn't trying to insult her, I was trying to tell her! Oh, I'm not making sense.

And if Jake was just trying to show me the pendant, why didn't he just say so? I thought that he was overcome with it's power... telling me to kiss him and removing his shirt. He is muey loco also! He deserved what he got for scaring me that way. I won't apologize for it. However, I am sorry for kicking you. And tell me again.. why are we in your room? she says and puts her arms around his neck."

Chester finds himself alone in the common room. "I still need to talk to Minerva." He goes up to her room and knocks. "Minerva, Nanuet? Can I come in? I need to talk to Minerva." Nanuet replies, "Geez Chester give us a minute to sort things out. Didn't you see what just happened down there? And she took it easy on Jake and me!"

Nanuet returns her embrace and tells her "Ruby cast a spell on you before you mauled her man any more. It put you to sleep and I figured it was best if they weren't around when you woke up, so I brought you up here. Do you still want to go today or do you want to stay and try and get to the bottom of what is going on around here? You have so much work to do with the festival too."

Chester knocks on the door again, "I really need to talk with her." "C'mon in Chet, but if she starts swinging you are on your own." Nanuet releases Minerva and then pulls her to her feet. Chester says, "Sorry to bother you, Minerva. Clarisse was upset at something you said to her about the festival. What was it?"

Minerva raises her eyebrows in surprise. "I am not sure what you mean, Senor, she was a bit upset earlier in our visit but I had thought that we had straightened everything out. Perhaps you should ask her what is bothering her. I would not feel right discussing her private matters without her permission." Chester replies, "I guess I will. Are the gods coming closer to the town? It seems like people are acting strangely around here recently."

Minerva replies, “I am sorry that I cannot be more helpful Senor Chester, I hope you understand my position. People are indeed acting quite strange. I was sure that you had come to accuse me of something. You are the only one I have met today who hasn't. And everyone seems to be having dreams. I think that it is important for you to know of my visitation last night and the previous night also.

Minerva once again describes her dreams, including the possible danger to Flint, Nanuet and herself. She tells her that she doesn't think that Sonoma is in danger since she was standing with Ringo which in itself was very disturbing. Minerva tells him of the warning that Mars and Ringo have joined forces.

She states, "There seems to be an extraordinary amount of attention being paid to Promise City, that combined with the way people are behaving and the strange reaction to these pendants really has me worried." I believed that the pendants were a gift from the three goddesses but now I am not so sure, Minerva is not a chaotic goddess and neither is Diana. I am becoming quite worried for the safety of the town Chester, especially with the festival so close at hand. I hope that you have a sufficient amount of law enforcers on hand for it.

Chester finishes his conversation with Minerva and leaves the couple alone in Nanuet's room. Nanuet is surprised by the look of hunger in her eyes as she crosses the room and wraps her arms around him, but he gently unwinds her arms and says "We have to decide what we are going to do."

Minerva works on keeping herself from touching him. "You asked me what I want to do," she says trying to control the pout that she feels coming on. "I'm not sure that I can make a logical decision. What I want," she says running her hand up his arm, "And what we should do does not seem to be the same thing. I feel a little more in control now but I do not trust my emotions. I think that they may be clouding my judgment." She says as she once again tries to worm her way into his arms. "That is not to say that I am crazy, Nanuet, other's are acting quite out of character also don’t you think?" Are says and works on nibbling his ear.

Nanuet feels himself getting wrapped up in the moment, wanting to take Minerva and have his way with her right then and there. The warmth of her breath causes the hair on his neck to stand on end and chills to run up and down his spine. I do not trust my emotions. I think that they may be clouding my judgment. Minerva's voice echoes in his head.

"Look, this whole town has gone crazy, I don't trust anyone here," he says summoning his will and again forcing Minerva to separate from him. "I think Kajika can help. You have to tell me though that you can focus. I am not sure what dangers await us on the journey and I need to know that you are aware of what is going on." "Oh , I am very aware of what is going on," she says in a husky voice. "It feels rather nice."

Nanuet says, "Minerva, we don't have time for this right now. Snap out of it! Look, I am leaving now, are you coming with me or not?" Minerva shakes her head to clear it." Si, I am coming with you. I am already packed. We should go now. Are you ready?" Nanuet nods "That's better. Let me grab a few things and we can go. Can you write a note to let the others know we left. I don't want to make this a long goodbye, I just want to get out of here. There should be some paper over there." he says pointing to a table in the corner.

Nanuet packs his meager belongings, making sure to include his rifle, bow, arrows, and knives. The rifle, unstrung bow and quiver are wrapped in a bed roll. He grabs a water skin and a few other belongings while Minerva pens the note.

Dear Friends,
Nanuet and I have gone to Kajika to seek guidance. Something is terribly wrong in Promise City. Emotions are much to high Try to stay focused on gathering information while we are gone.
p.s. Dear Ruby I am quite sorry for my yelling at you. Dear Jake I am also sorry for beating you up, I know that you were unable to control yourself. Please forgive me
Minerva

Nanuet takes the note from Minerva and places it under Jake and Ruby's door. "Are you Ready?" He says "Let's get out of here!" Nanuet and Minerva sneak over to the Comstock house. Minerva sneaks up the stairs grabs her gear and explains to Luna, who follows her back out. Nanuet is waiting with the horses. The two, mount and quickly gallop out of town.

 

[Silver Moon]

Chapter 176, “Sonoma’s Lament”, Sunday, March 26th, 1882, 2:30 PM

When they were almost home Kate said, "I have a little errand I need to run, do mind a short detour?" Sonoma replies, “Where do you need to go? the meat really shouldn't be left too long without cooking it will spoil quickly in the heat.”

Kate says, "Oh, it will only take a moment. Certainly not long enough to spoil the meat. A couple friends did me favors this morning, I need to return them. Mr. Garcia for the Lucky Lady is one." Kate turned Meribel toward Garcia's house, keeping her real destination secret until they are dismounting in front of Garcia's house. "I'm so glad you came with me Sonoma," she said loudly toward Mother Jaminez's door. "We miss having you here."

Sonoma seems to be agitated and avoids looking in the direction of her mentor's home “I am feeling badly about leaving Flint with the chores at the ranch could you possibly deliver the packages to Dorita I really feel that I must return to the animals that were left in my charge it is not fair to Flint or them to have someone who does not understand them left in charge.” With that she begins to transfer the packages quickly to Kate's horse. “Tell My mother I'm fine.”

"Flint is fine. In fact, I'll go back tonight and help him if you are so worried about it. Estaban and Grant have been very generous, escorting me where I need to go." Kate stopped Sonoma's hands. "Tell your Mother yourself," Kate said, slipping her arm in Sonoma's and gently leading her toward her Mentor's door.

Kate feels every muscle in Sonoma’s body stiffen as she touches her arm. “I really feel that I need to go back I don't belong in town and my mentor will think I am derelict in my duty if I am not caring for the animals I am responsible for.” With that she attempts to shrug her way out of Kate's hold and mount her horse.

Kate didn't want to resort to a spell to bring Sonoma to her mentor's door. "Sonoma, your mentor will not think the less of you for spending one night away. She is wise, and knows that we all need a little break now and then." She casually took the reins of Sonoma's horse. "Come, the sooner we are done here, the sooner we can go to the El Parador." She looked at the ground and noticed a fair sized stone. She tried to take a step with Sonoma in tow and kicked the stone over to Mother Jaminez's door, hoping the old woman would take it for a knock.

Sonoma replies, “I really have nothing that I should do here and a lot that needs to be done at the ranch. It was a mistake for me to think I should come into town. I need to go back to the ranch Nanuet will come for me when he is ready and I'll wait at the ranch for him that way he knows where I am. I really shouldn't be in town. Please release my horse so that I can go back away from this town to where I belong.”

"Not until I understand. I have never seen you so stubborn in my life, Sonoma Figueres. The ranch is perfectly fine. You have devoted every moment to it for weeks. One night will do no harm." Kate looked around the street and saw no one. She was shielded between Sonoma's body and the horse. She quickly cast a cantrip to open the door to Mother Jaminez's house and said loudly, "We'll just say hello Sonoma. After that you can go back to the ranch if you want. You'll get back quicker if you quit arguing with me about it."

Sonoma replies, “I am who I am and stubborn is something that has been bred into my family for generations if you don't believe me go try to change your mentor's mind once he has made it up. I don't belong in this town I belong out on the ranch I shouldn't be here and there is nothing for me here I can practice the skills I have much better in the open air away from this city with it's people. There is no reason for me to be here I don't belong here anymore I belong on the ranch away from this town and that is where I'm going to go.”

Kate's cantrip does not work against Mother Jaminez's door. The shutters over the windows are shut and latched. Kate was at a loss. She had gotten Sonoma to within a few feet of the door, and yet couldn't get her inside. She knew she wasn't strong enough to drag her physically, and it was the height of rudeness to use magic against a fellow apprentice. If it worked, Sonoma would forgive her. If it didn't..... Kate kept firm hold on the reins of Sonoma's horse.

Kat exclaims, "Will you at least wait here while I talk to her? She has been helping Conrad and I just need to speak to her about it." Sonoma exclaims, “Fine I'll stay here long enough to load the packages onto your horse then I'm going back to where I belong out of this town where I can breathe to wait for Nanuet in our home.”

Kate hurried over to the door and knocked, calling out, "Mother Jimenez? It's Mrs. Kale." She kept her eye on Sonoma, ready to cast a grease spell to keep her from leaving if it looked like she was going to flee. As Kate watches Sonoma unpacks and repacks the horses with record speed nearly overloading the bags to ensure that everything she had packed is on Kate's horse.

As soon as she has repacked the horse Sonoma mounts her horse she waves to Kate as she heads the animal in the direction of the ranch. "Tell my great grandfather I am fine and let my mother know I am eating well the house is finished if they wish to visit me, goodbye Kate I will see you when you return to the ranch" With that she speaks to her horse and begins to head back to the ranch. She yells back, "Let Nanuet know I'll be waiting for him at home"

"Sonoma, wait." Kate ran over and jumped on her own horse, easily keeping pace with the other woman. "At least come see Ginnie at the El Parador. She'll be so disappointed if you don't stop." Sonoma replies, “You can bring Ginnie out to the ranch, it's much nicer there than in town anyway lots of places for her to roam. Lots of open space and places to breathe. I don't really want to go into the town any further than I have already it isn't somewhere I should be. I really can't go into town. Tell Ginnie I said hello and I'll help her put up some of the vegetables I have planted when they are ready to can.”

Kate exclaims, "Sonoma, listen to yourself. You lived in town for a long time, you sound as if you're afraid of it. And Ginnie prefers town, from what I can tell. Alright, I give up. But I'm riding back with you, it's not safe to go alone. Which means we still need to stop at the El Parador to drop off the lamb. We'll get Estaban to ride with us so I can come back."

Sonoma states, “Kate I can't help it. I really feel that the town is the last place on earth I want to be. I can ride invisible back to the ranch but I will go with you long enough to make sure that you are safe, drop off the meat and see if there is anything Dorita or my great grandfather need from me but I'm not staying any longer than I absolutely need to.”

Kate says, "That's fine, Sonoma. They'll be glad to see you, and then we'll get you back out to the ranch. We can worry about why you don't want to stay later. I'll go with you to see your great-grandfather." When they arrived at the El Parador, Kate and Sonoma tied their horses out front and went inside with the packages.

Sonoma grabs the first batch of packages from Kate's horse and heads into the kitchen where she dumps them on the kitchen table she then quickly sorts through them for the meat packages and heads to the cooling cellar with the other packs of cheeses and butter. As she opens the door when she comes up the stairs Dorita is standing there arms crossed.

A tirade of Spanish comes out of Dorita's mouth at a speed that Kate's not sure anyone can fully understand. Twice Sonoma tries to speak and fails near the end of the yelling Dorita switches to English. "You no come home! You no send message! You bring lamb and run! NO you upstairs now and see your great grandfather!"

Kate had seen Dorita tirade often enough that this one only left her standing with mouth wide open for a moment. "Of course she should. That was part of the plan all along." Kate slipped her arm in Sonoma's. "Come along, we'll go upstairs for a few minutes and check in with your great grandfather." She threw a smile over her shoulder at Dorita as she led Sonoma out of the room and up the stairs to her teacher's rooms.

Sonoma follows Kate upstairs and through Gonzales's normal room in the El Parador and through the dimensional door. As soon as they enter the other room Kate immediately feels any pent up sexual tension evaporate and a wave of calm washes over her. The change in Sonoma is even more distinct and she almost collapses from the change. Kate grabs her for support and Sonoma says "What...what is happening?"

"Let's both sit down before we fall over. I've had quite the busy day trying to get you somewhere that would clear your head." Kate breathed out a heavy sigh, glad to be rid of the last vestiges of her earlier encounter.

Kate led Sonoma over to the long table and they both took a seat. "I visited Mother Jimenez this morning. I had some concerns about something and sought her council, which is why I was trying to get you into her home. These rooms are calm because they are not really in Promise City. Mother Jaminez's home is calm because she had warded it against the power influencing the city."

Kate called for her teacher to join them, and the began explaining what the old woman had told her that morning, getting much more specific than she had with Jake. She also filled Sonoma in on the ritual she, Ruby, and Minerva had performed in thanks, touching only briefly on why she needed to thank Diana. "The business with Jake out at the ranch...I was feeling Aphrodite's influence again. For some reason he seemed very appealing this afternoon. I'm sure Jake wasn't himself either. I'm just glad a kiss was all there was, I don't want to have to deal with Ruby!

For most people her influence seems fairly small, and mostly benign. Those who hadn't thought of love for a long time have woken up a bit, people are feeling a little more intently. It's not really a bad thing. But she is interfering with the other gods, keeping their priests away. You were a target of that, Sonoma."

Gonzales ponders that "I am surprised that I have not noticed any difference, then again, it is not at all unusual for me to have thoughts of love on my mind. It does explain my recent desire to return to Mexico to visit my....friend." Kate adds, "You also have these rooms that guard you from the constant influence."

He then says, "Aphrodite, or Venus as she is also known, is said to be a good god and I have no reason to doubt it. Please take into account that Jimenez takes a more neutral approach to life, as nature itself tends towards neutrality rather than good or evil. She would view things that upset the balance as bad, while I on the other hand would view good as, well, good. And given all of the violence and despair that has plagued this region her influence could be a very positive thing for this town."

Kate says, "In most of what is happening, I agree with you. Especially how happy Ruby has been. But for those she is seeking to distract... it is not good. The pendant I gave up, I was wearing it when I spoke to Conrad last and I was afraid of his jealousy. Just now at the ranch with Jake I could hardly contain myself. She is playing with Sonoma, Nanuet, and Minerva, and with the other local priests to get her way. I don't wish to eliminate her influence, even if there was a remote chance I could. But if hers is the only influence? There is a darker side to love, Professuer aime. We must still be able to think with our heads."

Gonzales asks, "Tell me again about these pendants, how exactly did you three come by them?" She replies, "I asked Miss Florencia to help me thank Diana. When the day came and we rode out into the desert, Ruby came with us. She was just back from Tombstone. We performed a ritual of thanks to Diana, Minerva, and Aphrodite. It was not what I had expected, and I wasn't quite comfortable with paying tribute to the other goddesses. I... Well, let's just say that I have reasons to distrust the gods. But there was a great feeling of connection.

As part of the ritual we each placed something in a bowl of water. Ruby placed a rose, I placed my wedding band, and the Priestess placed the olive leaves. We were all wearing crowns of them, and one was from each of us. After the ritual they were encased somehow, and I believe we all later began wearing them around our necks.

I'm afraid that I will have offended Aphrodite by having the pendant and my wedding band stripped of her influence, but I must be able to think clearly, and so must those around me. But I think I may go to the ranch tonight and try, in my own stumbling way, to honor her. As Jake has said, it is unwise to ignore the gods." Gonzales looks at Sonoma and her current confusion and says "I am not sure that the ranch is safe, look how my Great Granddaughter has been effected when she was there.” Kate says, "I thought of the ranch because, well... we were not dressed during the ceremony and it wouldn't do to do such a thing near town where I might be seen.

He replies, “Help me to better understand this. What prayers to Venus were stated at this ceremony that you participated in?" Kate doesn't remember the exact words. Gonzales goes into his work room and finds an elixir. He tells her "Drink this, it will allow you to pull a specific memory from deep in your subconscious into the forefront of your mind."

She does so and then recalls the ceremony again as though it had just occurred. Kate says, "The Priestess' prayer was "Venus, goddess of love and beauty, we acknowledge you and pay you tribute. We accept that the greater the gift, the greater the price that must be paid and so it is that with great love comes great heartache. This is the will of the gods. Grant us your favor and guide our hearts that we may remain open and unafraid of your power, which is love. As we acknowledge your gifts of love so are we able to recognize the love of others."

Gonzales pauses and says "Grant us your favor....and she provided pendants to do just that. And the priestess asked to "Remain open and unafraid" of her power and now you fear it, or you did when you gave up the pendant that the Goddess had given you. Katherine, for the immediate future I would suggest that you remain here in these rooms. I need to go speak to Minerva about this."

She states, "I just seem to stumble from one mistake to another, don't I? I can stay here and talk with Sonoma and study with Ginnie. But Miss Florencia is also being affected, she may not be very reasonable. Or she may overreact to everything. Be careful."

Gonzales has been gone from his rooms for around an hour when he returns. He tells Sonoma and Kate "Minerva is gone, she left town with Nanuet and may not be returning anytime soon. I guess I'll need to find another Greek or Roman Priest to talk to about this. Let me think." He sits down at his desk, pours himself a glass of wine and just sits back. He then sits up and exclaims "I've got it! Aristotle Theopolis! Sonoma and Katherine, are you up to making a trip to Athens!"

Kate exclaims, "Athens? As in Athens, Greece? If that's what we have to do. I have never been concerned about the gods before, but they seem to have noticed us now. And I do feel regret about acting so quickly. I could have just put the token away, not worn it but kept it. I want to make things right. I will need to put on some appropriate clothes," she said, gesturing to the leathers she currently wore. "At least Miss Florencia and Nanuet made it out of town. Kajika should be able to clear their minds."

He replies, "Personally, I would prefer for both of you to stay in these rooms until we get this underlying magic issue straightened out. But yes, appropriate clothing will be essential, the man I hope to see is now very high ranking in the church so we should all be wearing our best. Ask Ginnie to get whatever the two of you may need."

He looks at his pocket watch and says, "They are nine hours time different so it would now be well into the night, he's probably asleep by now. Let's plan on leaving some time between 8:00 and 9:00 PM our time, which will put our arrival at early morning in Greece. That'll give us all a few hours to rest, clean up and change."

Kate says, "I feel I should be doing something with the time, but I suppose a rest would be good. Ginnie, would you bring me my cream-colored dress with the violet piping? And my jewelry-box, please. We'll need something to eat as well. Stop down and ask Dorita for a tray for all of us? There's no need to be in a hurry about it, you've been cooped up in here too long. I could use a bath, but I suppose that isn't possible."

Gonzales says, "Sorry, I can't do that. Water creation is a clerical skill not a wizard one." But I've already taught you a few cantrips that you can use to make yourself clean. I'll give you all the privacy you want, I'm off to my rooms to take a nap."

Kate chatted with Sonoma for a while, sharing the meal that Ginnie brought back for them and filling her friend in on the developments with the Cowboy Gang. After a while she went into the library to cast the spells that would freshen her up. She knew she was clean afterward, but there was just something about the refreshed feeling of a bath the spell couldn't capture.

It was a relief to stay in these rooms for a while where her emotions could calm and she could be herself again. But she was still afraid. She had not realized the importance of the pendant, and now she had likely angered a goddess. Not only that, her natural distrust was roiling full-force. In her mind a scene replayed over and over. That horrible woman holding her baby brother as he cried, Maman in the doorway shouting, herself as a little girl hiding behind Henry as he tried to keep them from taking his sister away.

She shivered. You're a grown woman now, Katherine. No one can hurt you like that again. Kate got down to the business of getting ready to go, putting on the fine dress and carefully brushing and pinning her hair. In the main room Ginnie had another meal for her, and she sat down to eat it and wait for her teacher. "Ma'am Kate, Dorita gave me this note for you," Ginnie said as she sat down to the loaded plate. Kate thought Dorita was really overdoing it a bit. She didn't need to eat this much. She unfolded the paper and read Ruby's note. Her hand shook slightly as she folded it back up and put it away. She must make things right before tomorrow.

Sonoma looks toward Kate after her meal and hands her a basin of clear warm water she herself looks much better not only cleaner but somehow less stressed and relaxed “My great grandfather may not be able to provide you with water for bathing but I can.” "Thank you, Sonoma," Kate said with a smile. "I'll feel much better this way."

The young elf asks, “Who is this priestess that you have spoken of? it seems that she is causing you much trouble in the guise of helping you. And why is she out of town with Nanuet? Have the gods so clouded her mind that Nanuet's mentor is needed to help her?”

Kate replies, "She was out at the ranch with us the other day, I thought you had met her. Her name if Minerva Florencia, originally from Spain, I believe. She hasn't meant to cause any trouble, and I don't think this current trouble is any fault of hers. I asked her to help me thank Diana for bringing Tom to me, and apparently Ruby asked her to help her thank Aphrodite, so she combined the rituals.

I haven't seen her today, but I would guess her mind is as clouded as yours was, perhaps more with the pendant around her neck. Aphrodite wants the priests of others to be distracted so she can act freely. She is with Nanuet because," Kate paused and looked down for a moment. "Well, they have been keeping time together. I don't know how much of that is Aphrodite distracting two priests, or how much might be genuine. Nanuet has wanted to see Kajika for some time, and with this Cowboy Gang problem we hoped Kajika might have some insight."

Sonoma replies, “I see... that would explain some of his reaction to me when he was at the ranch. I believed that he just needed space and time to see what his feelings were after the troubles he had been through and stayed at the ranch to allow him that space. It seems that this goddess of "love" is a selfish person who seeks to use people and their emotions as play toys. I was kept at the ranch to allow Nanuet to dally with this priestess and cause all of this emotional turmoil.”

Kate says, "I imagine she is somewhat selfish. Goddesses don't hear the word no too often. I think Aphrodite is mostly good, but fallible. Her dealing with Ruby I have no quarrel with. She asked Ruby for her acceptance, and in exchange Ruby can see the love that has always surrounded her but she never trusted." Sonoma asks, “Did you not say that part of the ceremony included great gifts as well as great heartbreak? I think that part of your prayers I will fulfill for you if he wishes to be with the priestess I wish him well. If it is this goddesses' doing I will welcome his return to me.”

Kate states, "You have more patience than I would, Sonoma. Or perhaps it's the Elvan way of looking at things. What do you mean 'part of your prayers I will fulfill for you?'" Sonoma states, “Ss not heartbreak part of what you spoke in the prayers? It seems that there is a very good chance that I will receive that portion if Nanuet is truly in love with this Priestess and as you have already had the heartbreak of loosing the one you love I will take that measure for you in stead.”

Kate wrapped her arms around her friend. "I wish it could work that way. And I hope you will not have more heartbreak than you can bear. It comes to us all. And my gift from Diana," Kate let go and held Sonoma's hand with the one that bore the ring. "I will bear what I must for this gift. We will help one another bear what we must."