Disclaimer: The 'Magnificent Seven' and other characters from the series are the property of MGM, Trilogy and the Mirisch Company. I just borrowed them, played with them for a while, and then very regretfully gave them back! The original characters found in this piece are mine and should not be used without permission. Sadly, no money will be made from this work of fan fiction.
Genre: Old West — H/C, angst, drama
Main characters: Vin, Chris, Ezra.
Rating: PG13, mainly for language, plus some violence.
Thank you to my husband, Mike, for his patience and understanding whilst I sat for hours at the PC writing this, my first ever work of fan fiction. Thanks also to Heather and Sue for their constant encouragement.
As with each of my stories, the themes, convoluted ideas, original characters and writing are, in their entirety, all of my own work.
The original version of this story was posted to Lady Angel's Library website in March 2003.
This version has been revised, expanded and completely re-edited — May 2004.
Feedback and comments can be sent to susieburton999@yahoo.co.uk
There was much activity and many more visitors to the town, as the final day of the carnival arrived. With the exception of Nathan and Josiah, the four remaining peacekeepers and Judge Travis had spent most of the morning going through Ezra's plan. The men had thrashed out details of the scheme in one of the back rooms of the saloon, whilst the gambler had detailed the finer points of the subterfuge that would begin in the afternoon.
Chris had earlier asked Mary and the Judge to help with the ruse, and both had readily agreed. JD had been concerned that he wouldn't be available to help protect the tracker if the need arose, and even suggested that he should withdraw from the horse race. Chris had assured the youngest peacekeeper that without the distraction of the race, which JD had been tipped to win, there would be no reason for Vin Tanner to watch the proceedings, and his presence in the street while still obviously ailing would merely raise suspicions. The dark-haired sheriff could see the older man's point but, nonetheless, he still felt a little guilty about not being directly involved. It wasn't until Buck begun teasing him about the race that he finally agreed to remain in the competition.
Ezra had given them all instructions on what hands of poker would be dealt to Vin and had warned them about making any unusual bets or bluffs. The gambler was not leaving anything to chance, and had written down all the hands that would be dealt, listing them under the respective player's name. All the games played would be under his control; with no allowance for any errors that could potentially leave the tracker in a vulnerable playing position. Chris had decided that the poker group would consist of Vin, Ezra, Nathan, Josiah and Judge Travis, with himself as a casual onlooker. Buck and JD would take up strategic positions outside, which would allow them to keep a watchful eye on the main street as well as all of the saloon's entrances.
It was impossible to say what time this would occur, as it would be dependent on how well Vin was able to get around. Mary Travis had willingly agreed to escort the tracker through the town to view the race and it appeared that this event, scheduled on the celebration's programme for three in the afternoon, was the one that would happen first. Chris had also arranged for himself, Vin and Mary to have an evening meal in the restaurant, whilst the remaining peacekeepers would be on observation duty covering their movements. The gunslinger knew only too well how much potential there was for something to go wrong, but he hoped that he and his friends could cover any eventuality and possibly get a successful conclusion from the risky scheme.
Once all the details were finally worked out, Buck and JD went back on patrol along with Tiny, Baylis and Taylor, with Dora in charge at the jailhouse. It had taken a lot of careful planning and foresight, but Chris felt relieved that the town was adequately protected. The finals of the shooting, roping and riding contests were that afternoon, and all the men knew that there would have their hands full as there was bound to be trouble, particularly from the rival ranch hands that were participating in the competitions. It was not going to be an easy day for any of the peacekeepers, but Chris felt reasonably confident that his friends would be able to handle any problems that arose.
It was just approaching noon as Chris and Ezra made their way to the clinic, and the gunslinger hoped that Vin was ready to go through the plan with the gambler. The Texan had still been sleeping when Chris had left earlier that morning, but Nathan had assured him that Vin had had a restful night, helped by the medicinal draught the healer had given to his patient at midnight. As the two men entered the clinic, Josiah looked up from where he was sorting out shaving and washing gear.
"Morning, Chris, Ezra," the ex-preacher greeted, as he carried on folding towels into a neat pile.
Ezra sat down at the table, and pushing several cups to one side, he proceeded to deal five hands of poker, while Chris crossed to the partitioned corner to speak to Vin and Nathan.
Vin was sitting propped up on top of the bed covers. He was fully dressed, apart from his hat, buckskin jacket and gun belt, which were on the end of the bed, and Chris could see that his hair had been washed and combed. The tracker's face still had dark bruises on it, but he was not as pallid as the last time the gunslinger had seen him and, despite his collapse of the previous evening, the man looked alert, sightless eyes bright as his strength slowly returned. Nathan was standing close to the bed when, to Chris' complete surprise, he started to wind a bandage around Vin's head at a slight angle so that it covered the left eye entirely.
Chris frowned in puzzlement. "Guess you've got your reasons Nathan, but can you tell me why you're doing that?"
Nathan chuckled, as he finished the task and tucked the last end in place. "Yeah. He looks kinda dashing, don't ya think?"
Vin took a half-hearted swipe at the healer, but grinned as he explained to his other friend. "Josiah came up with this 'n', Chris. It seems that most'a the townsfolk know I wuz shot in the head, so we may as well go 'long with 'em by confirming what they think they already know!"
"This'll jes' give some credibility if Vin does have a bit of a stumble, Chris. Also, I think seeing him like this it may put some o' the more nosy folk off a bit, which should help with the deception. Not many people know how to talk to someone who's got an affliction, so I think it'll be a good way of keeping Vin's actual condition more ambiguous." Nathan had started packing away his medical kit as he spoke.
"Seems like a fair assumption. Can you get your hat on though?" Chris handed the slouch hat to the Texan.
Adjusting the hat to the correct angle, Vin lifted his head slightly and smiled. "How do I look?"
Chris gave a short laugh. "I'd say about as bad as you normally do, pard!"
"That good, huh?" Vin grunted, but refused to be baited by his friend.
"Where's my gun belt, Nathan?"
"D'ya think that's a good idea, Vin?" Nathan asked, his worried gaze resting on the pensive features of the gunslinger.
"I feel naked not wearin' it, an' it'd look a mite suspicious if I went out without it."
The determined look on the younger man's face made Chris smile. "Here y'go. Just don't shoot your foot off, will ya? Nathan's hairs already turning grey with worry, so just keep it holstered, huh?"
Chris handed his friend's weapon to him, as he gave the healer a look of resignation. "Ezra's here to go over things with you, Vin. The rest of us, apart from Nathan and Josiah, are all ready to play our parts. Mary will be coming up here in a couple of hours to be escorted to the race, and I've explained to her what will happen. So I guess it's all down to you now, pard."
The black dressed man's face looked grim and, although his tone didn't convey it, Nathan could see that the gunslinger still had his reservations about the Southerner's scheme and the many risks involved.
"Best get started then, afore Nathan changes his mind an' ties me t'this bed." There was no malice in the Texan's comment as he leaned forward and carefully swung his legs around to stand up.
Nathan also rose, but the only assistance he gave to his friend was by hooking the tracker's hand onto his own arm as he led Vin out to the table.
Ezra looked up as the three men entered the main clinic, watching Nathan guardedly, as the healer helped the tracker into the seat opposite him. The healer didn't even acknowledge the Southerner and, lowering his eyes, the gambler concentrated on the deck of cards he held in his hand. He'd had a long conversation with Chris last night after leaving the clinic, and had been surprised by the gunslinger's almost friendly attitude towards him. Ezra was only too aware that he would be pivotal to the scheme that was taking place today, and he hoped that Chris' apparent sympathy wasn't just a ploy to make the gambler carry through his side of the deception.
With a bright smile, the handsome gambler briefly touched Vin's hand. "It's good to see you looking better, my friend. If you are agreeable, I propose we start by dealing some cards, and you practising picking them up as if to scrutinise them." As he finished speaking, the gambler swiftly dealt seven cards in front of the tracker.
Vin could hear the rustle of the cards as they hit each other and he reached out with both hands. Feeling the cards he raked them in and fanned them out in his left hand.
The long-haired peacekeeper gave a wry smile. "Well, Ezra, how did I do?" he wanted to know.
"Not bad, but that was the easy part. You will need to listen and concentrate very carefully when we carry out this charade, and it will probably surprise you how much body movement is involved when playing. The trick will be timing your head movement to coincide with the cards that are distributed. We need to play a few dummy hands to achieve the desired effect, so I would suggest that you three gentlemen sit, whilst I demonstrate to our friend." Ezra beckoned to the three men standing around the table.
"Shouldn't I have some money, Ezra?" Vin frowned as he thought back to the countless games he had played. "An' I'll need a beer. Ya can't play a serious game of poker without a drink!"
"All in good time, Mr. Tanner. Shall we get the actual mechanics of the game rehearsed first? When you and I are satisfied that we are exponents of this tantalising parlour game, then we can add the finer trappings later." Ezra shuffled the deck and dealt five hands.
The men proceeded to play the hand out, with Ezra supplying Vin with information on what each man held in his hand. When Chris asked for two cards, the gambler informed the tracker what those cards would be and what hand the gunslinger had finally ended with. Eventually the game was played out, and Vin won the imaginary pot.
The Texan chuckled in disbelief. "Wish it wuz allus that easy, Ez! But I think yer gonna put the fellas off from playing with ya. Although, I guess it comes down t'trust at the end o' the day."
"Yes. I do seem to be burning my bridges somewhat. However, I am certain that when your sight returns, we will spend many happy hours playing this exquisite game of chance and partaking in congenial conversation. Is that not so, Mr. Larabee?"
Ezra looked at the man obliquely. He'd seen the flicker of emotion on the gunslinger's face as he had made the comment regarding Vin's eyesight.
"Reckon you could be right, Ezra." Chris' brittle reply was neutral, but the cold glare that he gave the gambler would have made Satan himself turn into a statue of ice.
Nathan shifted uneasily in his chair, but doggedly held his own temper in check. The healer could sense that Chris was once again reaching the limit of his tolerance with Ezra and, wanting to defuse the tense situation, he rose to brew some fresh coffee.
"Chris, seein' as how ya know what'll happen with the cards, why don't y'go an' get some sandwiches organised fer us? I'm peckish, an' Vin'll need summat in him afore Mary arrives." Nathan gave the black dressed man a long, hard look as he spoke.
"Bring enough for us all, Brother Chris, and a jug of beer so's our young friend can practice this poker session properly!" Josiah gazed thoughtfully at the gambler as he made the suggestion to the gunslinger.
Chris stood up. He was aware of what his two friends were doing; despite feeling a burning desire to grab hold of the gambler and beat him senseless, sanity prevailed for the moment and the gunslinger forced down his rising anger. This was neither the time nor the place. His many grievances with Ezra would need to be pushed to the back for now, but Chris promised himself that he would settle his differences with the man at a later date.
"I'll check in with Buck and JD, and let 'em know what's happening, so I might be a while." Chris adjusted his gun belt slightly as he walked to the door, but didn't look back as Ezra started dealing once again.
Chris Larabee returned to the clinic carrying a large heavy tray, kicking at the door a couple of times as he balanced his burden. Josiah opened it, ushering the black dressed man inside.
Vin and Ezra still sat at the table with cards in front of them, but Nathan had been busy tidying the clinic. The men had talked at great length in the forty minutes that Chris had been away, and all were now well versed in what was expected of them. The only thing that remained was for Vin to attempt to locate a glass that would be placed close to him on the table.
Putting the tray on the high bench, Chris poured beer from the pitcher into five glasses, and then set one down in front of the tracker. "Vin, if you keep the cards in your left hand, or even stack 'em in front of you while the betting's going on, then your glass will be reachable to your right. Does that sound sensible to you?" Chris asked, as he grasped his friend's right hand and guided it to the nearly full glass.
Vin fingered the cold glass for a moment, and then taking his hand back to the cards in front of him, he picked them up and spread the hand out as if studying them intently. Tapping the cards into a neat pile, he placed them back down, and then carefully reached across for the glass. His questing fingers gripped the handle and he lifted the glass to his mouth, drinking thirstily.
Chris laughed at the look of simple pleasure on the other man's features. "I might've known you'd have no trouble with that part, Vin!"
"Chris, when you've bin forced to drink Nathan's awful concoctions fer three days then you'll understand. Damn! That tasted real good!" Vin put the nearly empty glass back down in virtually the same position. There was a satisfied look on his face at what had been achieved, but he knew that it would be very different when he got into the noisy saloon.
Ezra had sat silently observing his friends during this time. He could tell that both Chris and Nathan were still angry with him, and even though he was integral to what had been occurring the gambler felt isolated and detached from his friends. There was an unidentifiable tension between Chris, Nathan, and Josiah, a problem that was somehow connected to Vin and his present physical condition, but he could not understand what was wrong. He felt hurt and angry that they had chosen to shut him out; after all, he cared for the Texan too, and wanted to assist his friend in any way he could. But the gambler knew if he tried to probe any more he was going to end up arguing with possibly all three men and, for Vin's sake, he didn't want that to happen.
Ezra coughed delicately to get his friends attention. "Well, gentlemen, I think Vin has learnt as much as is possible in the time we have. Mr. Larabee, this is a list of all the hands that I will deal, so it may be advisable to read them to Mr. Tanner, in order for him to memorise the correct sequence. I need to carry on with my other duties for the time being, so I look forward to your company later this afternoon." The gambler passed a sheet of paper to Chris and, leaving the cards on the table, he walked out of the clinic.
Vin frowned, as the door clicked shut. "Is there summat going on with Ezra that ya ain't telling me?" he asked worriedly.
Nathan shook his head vigorously, as he saw Chris open his mouth to speak. "I think that's my fault, Vin. I shouted at him last night, remember? I blamed him fer tiring ya out. Mebbe I should apologise to him."
Nathan's tone sounded remorseful, but Chris could see from the healer's expression that he had no intention of doing any such a thing.
"I didn't blame him, Nate, an' I wish you hadn't either," Vin said, shrugging his shoulders.
"Don't worry about it for now, pard. Shall we eat summat?" Wanting the subject dropped, Chris put a plate in front of his friend.
Vin felt around for a sandwich, which he then picked up and began eating. "Hmm. Guess this is summat I need t'practice," he commented.
Helping himself from the food tray, Nathan sat down next to the tracker. "Vin, Mary'll be here in an hour or so. When you've eaten, I'd like ya to lie down and rest fer a while. If ya want t'get through this afternoon without passing out, I think it'd be fer the best." The healer wasn't sure how Vin would react to this suggestion, but he was determined to try and get his friend into the best physical state he could.
The tracker chewed on his food deliberately as he mulled over his friend's request. "Mebbe yer right, Nathan. But I ain't drinkin' one of yer awful brews, so don't go on at me. I need t'have a clear head. It took m'long 'nough to wake up this morning!"
The indignant look on the tracker's face made his friend smile. "I know. I jes' want ya to lie on top o' the bed fer an hour. Y'may not actually sleep — but at least yer resting." Nathan breathed a silent sigh of relief, surprised by the younger man's unexpected acquiescence.
Vin nodded as he ate another sandwich. He knew that Nathan was still worried about him, and he could hear the concern in all his friends' voices. With an inward sigh, the Texan decided to accept the healer's advice as he knew it was the only way he would get his strength back, which would then make his own plan that much easier to carry out.
Standing up, Vin put his hand out. "I'm finished, Nate, so lead the way. But I ain't taking m'boots off, y'hear?"
The two walked across to the partitioned corner, and Vin sat on the bed, removing his hat while Nathan flattened the pillows. Letting out a heartfelt sigh, the tracker relaxed back closing his eyes momentarily, but then opening them again when the healer pulled a blanket over him.
"Try an' get some rest, Vin. We'll be outside on the balcony fer a while, so's ya get a bit o' peace, alright?"
"Thanks." Vin closed his eyes, silently admitting to himself that he did feel weary. "Nathan?"
The healer had been about to leave the corner as Vin called out to him. "Yeah, what's wrong?"
"Nuthin'. Yer a good man, Nathan." The tracker pulled the blanket closer around him as he shifted to a more comfortable position.
Nathan chuckled, shaking his head in bemusement. "I'll remind ya of that next time I'm trying to get ya t'drink one of my evil brews, y'hear? Now try an' sleep fer a spell, eh?"
The healer went out to rejoin his two friends and, picking up a glass of beer, he silently gestured for them to follow him out to the balcony. Sitting on the chairs outside, the three men sipped at their drinks as they surveyed the almost deserted street below.
"Must be doing a fair trade down at the stalls," Nathan remarked to no one in particular.
Josiah nodded. "Yep, it looks that way. The carousel's been popular too."
The men sat in silence for a short time, but it was obvious what was on the minds of all three. Josiah leant back in his chair, as he regarded his two friends thoughtfully.
"I know we agreed not to discuss this with the others, but do you think we should speak to Ezra, concerning our young friend?"
The ex-preacher's hushed question caused Chris to frown, as he thought about what had occurred in the last twenty-four hours.
"Nope. I'm not sure I trust Ezra not to alert Vin to the fact that we know what he plans. At the moment he's just fishing around, trying to get involved in what he thinks is a personal problem for the boy. Course he's right, there is a problem, he ain't a top-notch gambler and con artist for nothing and can read us all well! I just don't want him sticking his face in Vin's private affairs." Chris' reply was soft, but firm.
"That may be, Chris. But have we really got the right to decide that? I know you want to help Vin, but I believe Ezra does too and I don't believe he would do anything to hurt or upset him." Josiah's voice was quiet and persuasive.
Chris' hand tightened on his glass, his knuckles whitening, and for a moment the ex-preacher thought the vessel would shatter under the force. The grim faced gunslinger gazed ahead, but remained silent.
Nathan took another swig from his glass. "No — we don't have the right to make decisions fer Vin. With everything that's happened, I can tell ya without fear of contradiction that he isn't really himself at the moment. That ain't the Vin Tanner we all know. There's an awful lot of hurting inside him, but I still think we should respect his wishes, no matter how painful they may be fer us. If Ezra pokes his nose in it's difficult to say what would happen, but all I know is that when that gambler gets involved things get kinda... twisted... an' corrupted. It's not summat I'd like to take a chance on. I hav'ta agree with Chris on this 'un." The healer's quiet tone had a note of finality in it.
Josiah sighed heavily; he could tell that his two friends were not going to be swayed. "Well, Ezra may cause more problems as things stand, but don't be too surprised if he guesses the boy's intentions anyway."
Nathan nodded. "Mebbe. The only other person who could give things away is Vin himself. I don't think it's occurred to him yet how tricky it can be t'get around when ya can't see. Let's jes' wait an' see what happens, huh?"
They fell silent once again, as there was nothing more to be said on the subject. The forthcoming scheme that Ezra had devised would shortly start, and that had to take priority for now. The three peacekeepers would need to concentrate on the plan as it unfolded, while keeping their injured friend safe. At the same time they couldn't afford to jeopardise the safety of the town or its occupants, and it would be difficult to keep everything finely balanced and secure.
Vin took a deep breath as he reached the bottom of the clinic stairs. Although it was good to feel the fresh air on his face, he felt a little apprehensive about his ability to navigate the town and carry out the charade of being able to see. Nathan had roused him from sleep just fifteen minutes ago, shortly after Mary Travis had arrived to take the tracker to the horse race. Things had moved swiftly and, apart from going over the poker hands once more with Chris, he'd had no time to dwell on the enormity of the undertaking that was about to commence.
Sensing his hesitation, Mary squeezed with her hand that was now linked through the Texan's arm. "Are you feeling alright, Vin?" the woman whispered, her voice highlighting her concern.
"Yeah, thanks Mary. It jes' feels strange to be outside an' away from Nathan."
The pair strolled slowly along the boardwalk in the direction of town where the race would soon begin.
"I'm sure we'll be fine. The Judge is adjudicating the race, and he's arranged seats for us close to the starting line. I can see Buck now. He's standing outside Mr. Watson's store, and Chris and Nathan are a little distance behind us." Mary had kept her voice low as they neared two ladies she knew. Nodding their heads in greeting, the women smiled at Mary and gave the tracker a look of mild curiosity.
"Good afternoon, Mrs. Davis, Mrs. Lewis," Mary greeted, tapping Vin's arm unobtrusively with her finger.
"Ladies'." The Texan politely touched his hat as the two women continued on their way.
There were quite a large number of spectators already lined up along both sides of the main street, although the area itself was clear. A thick rope intertwined with colourful bunting had been strung up high above the street and this would serve as both start and finish line. Mary caught sight of her father-in-law and, continuing to guide the blind peacekeeper, she headed for the seats that the Judge had arranged.
"Good afternoon, my dear, Vin." Judge Travis gestured for them to sit. With a casual look around at the crowds, he spotted the other five men, noting that they had taken up positions where they could easily observe Vin and Mary.
The youngest peacekeeper had just appeared on the street, leading his horse as he made his final preparations for the race. Following immediately behind JD was Casey, talking to and stroking her prancing chestnut mount as she too headed for the start line. There were twelve riders taking part in the race, which would be run through the main street and out around the town, covering a distance of nearly two miles. The riders would pass through the line four times, and the first person who crossed the finish line at the fifth circuit would be the winner. The remaining riders had grouped together by the line, and their attention was now fixed on Judge Travis as he stood on the edge of the boardwalk holding a green flag on a pole.
Checking his watch, the Judge lofted the pole higher. "Is everybody ready? Go!"
Judge Travis waved the flag down, and the riders kicked their horses into motion. The crowd of spectators began shouting and screaming encouragement to their favoured riders, and as the twelve raced past the buildings, a few people ran along the edge of the street attempting to see who was in front as the horses left the town limits. Several minutes passed, before the riders raced back into the town and Mary stretched up in her seat as she tried to see who was leading. Touching Vin's arm, she shook it excitedly.
"Vin, JD's in front, and Casey's right behind him!"
The tracker could hear the loud pounding of twelve sets of hooves, and his head followed the sound as the riders passed the line. "Who else is racing, Mary?" Vin leant closer to the woman, as he quietly asked the question.
"I don't recognise them all, but I saw two hands from Mr. James' ranch, a couple from the Lazy K spread, and several other youngsters from town." Mary pushed a few stray blonde hairs back into place. "Here they come again."
The crowd shouted and waved wildly as the riders galloped past once more and, standing at the front, Judge Travis studied his watch, noting the time of each lap as he observed the proceedings.
"JD's dropped back, Vin. Casey's in second place still, but Toby Fellow's from the Lazy K is leading now." Mary kept up her commentary.
"Are Chris an' the rest o' the fellas still close by, Mary?" Vin asked.
"Yes. I can see them looking around at the crowd. No-one's paying them any attention though; the race is definitely the main attraction at the moment."
"Can you see any of the dance folk around?" Vin wanted to know, moving his head as if he were studying the crowd.
"Noo. I don't think...Yes! I can see Gregor and Piotr, close to the hotel. I think they've just come from a dance rehearsal, but they seem quite interested in the race. It looks like they're alone."
Mary carried on surveying the area. "I think Chris has seen them. He and Josiah are directly opposite."
"Waal, Chris'll be keepin' a real close watch on those fellas, so don't worry 'bout them."
Vin had been given all of the facts that his friends had gathered regarding the attack, and also a list of the possible suspects. It still frustrated him that he had not been able to supply any new information, but he was hopeful that at some point today the killer would be forced to make another move.
The horses thundered by yet again as he spoke, and he felt Mary get to her feet.
"The men are not going to be pleased. Casey's in front, and it look's like she's pulling further ahead, too!" The woman clapped her hands in delight as the riders disappeared from sight.
"Mary?" Vin touched the woman's arm lightly, as she sat back down.
"Yes?" Mary sensed that the tracker had something on his mind, so she shifted closer to Vin as the crowd suddenly quietened.
"How does Chris seem to you?" Vin lowered his head as he softly spoke.
"Well, I know he's very angry and upset about what's happened. He's blaming himself for the death of the girl, but that's typical of Chris. He's been working hard to try and find the killer, so I've not really spoken to him much, Vin. I do know that he's worried about you." Mary wasn't sure if she should continue this conversation, but she could see that the man was troubled.
"I know that. He jes' seems diff'rent somehow, like he don't know what t'say to me. I know he tends t'get riled up real quick, but he's bin so angry, especially with Ezra. Course, Ezra allus gets under Chris' skin. But it's jes' not the same as usual. I... I dunno what's wrong." Vin bit his lip in confusion.
"Vin, so much has happened in a very short time; you're barely recovered from a serious injury and things have drastically changed for you. Maybe it's your own perception of Chris that has altered. I know that it can't be easy for you at the moment, but I think you just need to give it some time. Have you talked to anyone else about how you feel?" The quiet sympathy in the woman's voice was apparent.
"Nope. Nathan's bin a'frettin' an' a'fussin' so much I ain't really had a chance to speak to him proper, an' Chris never seems to come near me when he's on his own. Problem is I can't really recall too much 'bout the last coupla days, but I jes' feel that summat ain't quite right. I'm blind, Mary, not touched in the head, an' I jes' wish Chris would treat me the same as he allus does," Vin stated with a heavy sigh.
This last part had been barely above a whisper, but Mary could hear the unmistakable pain in the man's voice. "Vin, I'm not the right person to give you advice about Chris. We've not been getting along terribly well of late and I don't know what to do about that either. To be honest, I'm keeping out of his way for now and hoping that things will sort themselves out. I'm sorry that I can't be of more help to you." There was a note of regret in the woman's voice as she took the tracker's hand and squeezed it sympathetically.
As the woman finished speaking there was a huge roar of excitement from the crowd as the riders raced towards the finish line. The Judge held his flag aloft once more, than waved it around as the winner crossed the line. Casey held one hand up in jubilation as she took the flag ahead of the other competitors, and a look of exultation lit up her face as she turned in her saddle to wave enthusiastically at JD. Mary jumped to her feet, dragging Vin up with her.
"Casey's won! JD was... fifth I think."
The crowds had spilled onto the street now as they rushed over to congratulate the winner, but Mary stayed close to the tracker, waiting for her cue from Chris Larabee. They didn't have long to wait as the gunslinger soon strode over to the pair.
"Mary, Vin. Is everything alright?" The older man looked intently at the tracker, trying to assess his friend's physical state.
"Getting' tired o' bein' asked that. Chris, yer getting worse then Nathan!" Vin growled angrily.
Mary studied the boardwalk, embarrassed by the sudden hostility in the tracker's voice. Chris turned away, looking across to JD and Casey, who appeared to be arguing with one another.
"Looks like JD's getting his head chewed off ag'in by Casey. Those two don't know when t'stop!" the gunslinger remarked, choosing to ignore his friend's irritable comment.
Judge Travis strolled over to rejoin the three, propping the flagpole against the wall. Smoothing back his hair with his hand, the judge frowned in consternation. "Well, I think there's going to be some trouble later. The riders from the ranches are saying that we should do the race again, 'cos a girl won it, an' she shouldn't have been allowed to compete."
"That's unfair! There's no rule to say that the race was for the men only. They just can't bear the thought of being beaten by a woman!" Mary's voice communicated the anger and indignation she felt.
"Well, as far as I'm concerned, the result stands. Miss Wells won fair and square and if anyone wants to make a fuss, they had better come and speak to me. I have said that to all the riders, so they know my feelings on the matter," the Judge said emphatically.
"There's nothing else we can do then, except keep a lookout for trouble. I'll speak to the others later, so's they know what to expect." Chris sighed tiredly. This was an additional problem for him and his friends' to cope with.
"What's next, then? Or are we gonna stand here jawing all day?" Vin asked curtly. He was impatient to carry on with the plan, and his question came out sharper than he'd intended.
Judge Travis gave the gunslinger a sidelong glance. "I think a cold beer is in order, gentlemen."
Chris nodded. "You've convinced me, Judge. Mary, I'll catch up with you later for a meal. Vin, I think we have a poker game awaiting us, so let's go, huh?"
"I'll walk with you for a while," Mary added, linking arms with the Texan as they strolled towards the saloon.
Chris fell in step behind Vin and Mary, with the silent Judge Travis at his side. Buck and JD had followed in their direction, but kept to the opposite side of the street. Chris knew that Josiah and Nathan were already in the saloon, and felt sure that Ezra would have organised the table where they would play. The only other person who was aware of what would shortly occur was Inez.
Ezra had been insistent when he had spoken to the gunslinger that morning that it would make the stage-managed poker game that much simpler to initiate if the shrewd barkeeper also knew what was occurring. Chris had readily agreed, as he had great respect for the clever Mexican girl and knew that she would help to give the plan an appearance of normality, whilst being totally discreet about Vin's current condition.
What concerned Chris more at the moment though was the Texan's apparent irritation. He knew that his friend was under a lot of pressure to carry out the charade, but it seemed that the tracker's earlier confidence had evaporated and the man was becoming increasingly annoyed as the day progressed. At the moment his friend's anger seemed to be directed solely at Chris, so the gunslinger decided not to pay too much attention to the other's resentful comments, hoping that Vin would calm down before anything out of the ordinary occurred.
The four entered the saloon, which was fairly busy, even for mid-afternoon. There weren't many cowhands in the bar at present, as the finals of the roping and shooting contests were about to take place in the large holding corral at the far end of town. It would be later tonight that the place would liven up as the inevitable celebrations started and Chris fervently hoped that Vin was not still in the saloon when this happened.
The gunslinger had already spoken privately to Nathan about this. The healer had firmly stated that he would not allow any harm to befall the tracker and, if necessary, would have no hesitation in slipping a sleeping draught into the younger man's drink. Neither had been overjoyed at the thought of deceiving their friend, but they realised it might be the only way to keep the Texan safe, albeit in the short term.
Nor did Chris believe that Ezra's plan would be part of Vin's solution to the problem of his blindness. Both he and Nathan thought that the man would simply disappear into the open range alone, without risking anyone else. How the Texan thought he could actually achieve this objective without his vision was beyond the comprehension of the two men. Although they had to admit that with his tenacious and strong-willed temperament, the tracker would most likely find a way to solve his predicament.
Seeing his friends enter, Nathan rose from the table set in the corner of the saloon and ambled over to the bar to order drinks. "Could we have some beers please, Inez?"
Leaning against the bar as he waited for the girl to serve him, Nathan gave the tracker a long look, noting the fleeting expression of relief on the man's face as he relaxed into a chair at the table. Carrying the tray back, Nathan placed the drinks on the table, making sure that Vin's glass was to the right of him. Ezra and Josiah walked across, joining Vin at the table.
"It's good to see you up on your feet, Brother Vin." Josiah drank some of his beer as he quietly spoke.
"It feels good, Josiah. An' I'm feelin' jes' fine — afore any of ya fussin' ole she-wolves ask! So I ain't gonna say no more 'bout it, y'hear?"
The tracker's hostile tone revealed the frustration that had been steadily building inside him since leaving the clinic, causing the other peacekeepers to exchange wary glances.
Mary could feel the aura of unease surrounding the men and, wanting to break the awkward silence, she cleared her throat delicately. "Well, I'll leave you gentlemen to your drinks. Chris, Vin, I shall stop by later. I assume we're still having dinner tonight?" she asked.
"That's the idea, Mary." Chris leaned nonchalantly against the wall, casually surveying the saloon and its occupants.
"I won't be too long, my dear." The Judge sat down and picked up his own glass.
Mary adjusted her shawl, and with a tiny smile at her father-in-law, she went out onto the still busy street.
Ezra had sat silently shuffling the cards, but he'd been studying his friends intently, as he gauged each man's frame of mind. The concern for the tracker's physical well being was plainly evident in Nathan, Josiah, and Judge Travis, while Chris Larabee exuded quiet vigilance as he took up the role of protector to his friend.
However, it was Vin's disturbing and uncharacteristic behaviour that perplexed the gambler at present. When he had gone through the details of his strategy with the tracker earlier, he'd been surprised at the younger man's positive attitude to the scheme, as it was clear that the Texan was intent on helping to catch the girl's killer. What had amazed Ezra more at the time though, was Vin's almost indifferent acceptance of his blindness. As the gambler thought longer about the continuing tension between Chris, Nathan and Josiah, coupled with the tracker's unusual frame of mind since leaving the clinic, he'd begun to comprehend what the problem was.
Feelings of fear and dread now gripped Ezra as he thought about what his own feelings would be if confronted with the possibility of permanent blindness and he was forced to acknowledge that he would probably take his own life, rather than continue to live as a cripple. The ignominy of having to be totally dependant on other people filled him with revulsion and he was positive that this would be Vin Tanner's sentiments' too. Also, with this realisation came the agonising pain that his three friends almost certainly knew of the tracker's intentions, but had chosen to exclude the gambler from their intimate circle, thus denying him the chance to support or help the Texan in any way. This thought wounded him more than he would have believed possible, but the gambler knew it was something he had to keep to himself.
With an inward sigh, Ezra pushed his concerns aside as he attempted to carry on with the plan that he'd meticulously constructed. "Well gentlemen, can I interest you in a game of poker? I doubt that we will have sufficient time later, so we should take the opportunity to relax for a while as we finish our drinks," he said cheerily, as he started to deal five hands.
Chris Larabee straightened slightly, his eyes narrowing in suspicion, as the saloon door opened to admit the two dancers, Gregor Bubka and Piotr Alekseyev.
The Russians walked over to the bar and ordered beers from Inez. Piotr turned around, casually looking at the people in the saloon, and then his gaze fell on the group of men playing poker at the corner table. With a nudge to his colleague, Alekseyev leant closer to Bubka. "Mr. Larabee is over there. Are you sure that you want to stay for this drink, Gregor?" he asked, speaking in his own language.
The two men had just come from a rehearsal, and both wore loose fitting pants and shirts. They carried small leather bags, and Bubka still had a towel draped around his neck. Wiping his face once again, he nodded to his friend.
"Yes. I have done nothing wrong and I will not hide. Let us sit for a time."
The pair of dancers' walked to a table that was some distance from the poker group and, quietly sipping their drinks, they watched with interest at what was happening in the room.
"Is that Mr. Tanner playing poker?" Alekseyev asked.
"Yes. I thought he would still be at the clinic. Obviously his injuries were not as severe as we were led to believe." Bubka glanced warily at Chris Larabee, who seemed to be paying close attention to the game being played by his friends.
"So it appears, although I think he has not yet fully recovered from the attack. It does not look as if Mr. Larabee is doing much to find Anya's killer!" Alekseyev said scornfully.
"I am not so sure. I have first hand knowledge of seeing Mr. Larabee pursue his investigations and, in some ways, I pity the person if he does discover who did this cowardly act. I truly believed him when he said he wanted to find Anya's murderer." Bubka took several gulps of his beer.
"Well, we will see. These Americans are rather backward in their customs and we are merely viewed as curiosities from another country," the other replied petulantly.
"Now tell me Gregor, are you happy with the new routines that Madame has put together for tonight?"
Leaning back in his chair, Bubka toyed absently with his glass as he considered his companion's question. "I have no choice in the matter. It was my fault that Irina cannot perform tonight, so it is only right that I should get the lesser dance role. Madame will only require me for the first half of the performance, but at least that means I can finish early, and then start packing my belongings."
"Yes. I will be sad to leave without our dear friend, but glad to return to New York." Alekseyev finished his drink and got to his feet. "Are you coming, Gregor?"
"Yes. I think I know how a fly feels when trapped within a spider's web. I am convinced that Mr. Larabee and his friends think I am guilty. It is a most disconcerting feeling, Piotr." Bubka gave his colleague a wry smile, as he also rose.
Chris watched the two Russians closely as they left the saloon. Crossing to the door, he went outside to see where the men were headed. Seeing the pair enter Virginia's Hotel, the gunslinger returned once more to stand close by the poker table.
The men at the table had played several hands of poker, and Chris thought that his friends had carried out their parts well, although he had been mildly disappointed that nothing had occurred, even when the two dancers had entered the saloon. The men had been at the table for more than an hour and the gunslinger noticed Nathan glancing with concern at Vin, although the healer had refrained from saying anything to the tired-looking tracker.
"Well, gentlemen, I think a break is needed, whilst the lovely lady brings us more drinks," Ezra announced as he placed the deck of cards in front of him. "Vin, you haven't touched your beer. Is there a problem, my friend?"
"Nope. I'm jes' not in the mood fer a beer, Ezra. 'Sides, Nathan bought this 'n' to me, an' I'm not sure I trust 'im not to slip summat in it t'get me t'rest. Sorry, Nathan — no offence." Vin rubbed at his face wearily.
"Well, I can quite understand your sentiments. While we all have occasions to be grateful for our learned healer's skill and dedication, I must agree that our friend can be a trifle over zealous in his ministrations to the sick and injured. I will ask Inez to come over, and the lady will bring you the drink of your choice straight into your hand. How does that sound?" Ezra had leaned closer to the tracker as he quietly spoke.
"It sounds reasonable. Are we gonna carry on playing, Ez?" Vin sat up straighter as he spoke.
"Later. Inez is here waiting to hear your order." The gambler had beckoned the pretty Mexican girl over to the table.
"Not for me, thank you. I have to go."
Judge Travis got to his feet as he spoke. "Gentlemen, I trust that you are able to resolve everything satisfactorily, and no doubt you will let me know the result."
"Judge, could you remind Mary to be here at eight, so we can go to the restaurant together." Chris pulled up a chair as the departing man waved in agreement.
"So, Senor, what can I get you to drink?" Inez had stood quietly waiting as the Judge left.
"Inez, I'll have a large shot o' red eye, por favour," Vin requested.
"Ahem, Inez could you bring Mr. Tanner's drink to him first, please? Place the glass directly in his right hand, if you don't mind," Ezra drawled softly, glancing curiously at Nathan, who had smiled broadly at the tracker's words.
"Si." The girl sounded mildly puzzled as she went to pour the drink.
"Waal, the game went fine, but I didn't see anybody lookin' at us suspicious like, did you, Chris?"
"Nope. Vin, we saw the two dancers, but they just had a beer and then left," Chris explained to his friend.
"Don't reckon anyone'll try t'do summat in plain sight anyhow, but mebbe it'll rile someone up 'nough so's they make a move later on," Vin answered, giving an optimistic grin.
Crossing from the bar, Inez briefly touched the tracker's arm. "Vin, here is your drink." The girl put the glass into his hand, and he immediately took a large gulp of the fiery liquid. "What can I get for the rest of you gentlemen? Beer?" At the nods of assent, she then went back to the bar.
The saloon had started to empty now, as people either left to watch the remainder of the competitions, or went to eat an early meal before the evening festivities began.
"I think I'll go an' have a word with Buck." Chris got to his feet and, with a final check around the room, he then went out to the street.
"That was a real surprise, Casey winning the horse race," Josiah remarked.
"Yeah, but th' Judge thinks there could be a heap o' trouble 'cos of it. The losers were from the James ranch, an' Lazy K. Chris is prob'ly talking t'Buck 'bout it right now." Vin swallowed more of his drink, as he finished speaking.
"Waal, it was most fortunate that I did not lavish good money on Mr. Dunne winning the race. The odds that were being offered were scandalous, and quite enough to deter me from making a bet of any kind," Ezra drawled.
"The shooting and roping is bein' fought over now, but I guess it's too much to hope that the ranch hands don't carry on with the contest tonight. I can see I'm in fer a busy one if they do," Nathan sighed.
Putting down his empty glass, Vin carefully shifted in his chair as he listened to his friends' conversation. He had to concentrate hard on what was being said, and his head was starting to feel thick and muddled, as if he had been drinking heavily. Leaning his elbow on the table, he rested his chin on his hand, closing his eyes as he attempted to clear his head, which was beginning to feel like it was about to explode.
Seeing the worried glances of his friends', Nathan leaned across and lightly tapped the tracker's arm. "Vin? Vin? Are ya still awake?"
Vin nodded, and then instantly regretted the sudden movement as a piercing pain lanced behind his eyes. The only thing he felt like doing at the moment was laying his head down on the table and going to sleep. "Godammit, Nathan! Don't tell me ya got Inez to dose my drink!"
"Nope, I didn't need to. Vin, you've still got the drugs in ya, 'cos they take some time to go through the body. If you'd stuck to the beer I gave ya they wouldn't have got all stirred up ag'in. Ain't nuthin' to be done now 'ceptin' t'rest fer a spell." Nathan grinned, pleased that he hadn't needed to trick his friend after all.
"Aw, hell! Why didn't y'tell me, Nathan? Feel like I've bin goin' drink fer drink with Chris all day." The younger man's words slurred slightly, as he wearily rubbed his forehead.
"Vin, if ya lay down an' rest fer a couple of hours now, there'll still be plenty o' time to have dinner with Mary this evening. Then later ya can carry on with Ezra's scheme," Nathan coaxed quietly, hoping the man would listen to reason.
"I ain't goin' back to the clinic. I'll bunk in m'wagon," Vin replied stubbornly.
"Maybe I can offer a compromise, Vin. Come up to my room and rest there for however long you need. That way we can watch your back without needing to move and you will be in the correct location for a pre-dinner beer." Ezra gently touched his friend's arm, as he softly made his suggestion.
"You bunch fuss worse 'n' a gaggle of old women! An' I ain't gonna touch any more of yer liquor, y'hear?" Scraping the chair back noisily, Vin staggered to his feet. He swallowed convulsively as his stomach gave a sickly flutter and, bending over slightly, he winced painfully as his unrestrained movement caused his left side to twinge. Another wave of dizziness washed over him and, as his temples began to throb unbearably, he gripped the edge of the table, which seemed to be rocking and moving with a will of its own. Taking a few deep breaths, and trying desperately not to pass out, Vin carefully pulled himself upright.
No one failed to see the tracker's pained grimace, but Ezra flew out of his chair first and, putting a steadying arm around the white-faced tracker, he started to lead his unresisting friend to the staircase. "I cannot recall the last time I met a person as obstinate and intractable as you, Mr. Tanner. Allow me to assist you to my room. Or do you want to make a spectacle of yourself by collapsing on the floor? Now that would be a most unfortunate advertisement for this fine establishment!"
Several of the men in the saloon looked up as the two made their way to the stairs, but apart from that no-one paid any attention to the apparently drunken tracker being helped by his friend.
Leaning heavily on Ezra, Vin somehow managed to climb the stairs and felt relieved when he heard the gambler open the door to his living quarters. With a grateful sigh, the tracker felt the yielding softness of the feather mattress as he slumped down on the large bed.
"Now, if you think you are lying in my bed with your boots on, then you are sadly mistaken, my friend. Those silk sheets came from New York and I will not have them ruined!"
Ezra started to remove the other man's boots, and then tossing them under the bed he pulled the covers down to the bottom. As he expertly plumped the pillows and smoothed the sheet, the gambler suddenly chuckled.
"What?" Vin queried, as he first allowed his friend to remove his hat and gun belt, and then carefully swung his legs up to lie down.
"I was thinking of the last time I escorted a long-haired, blue-eyed companion to my bedchamber. That wondrous night resulted in many hours of gratifying delectation as ardent passion overcame us both!" Ezra smiled at the memory.
"Yeah? Well, if ya try anything funny with me, Mr. Gambler Man, then I'll bust yer damned nose!" Vin growled, but he nonetheless relaxed against the pillows.
"For shame, Mr. Tanner, your virtue is quite safe. You have neither the curvaceous form nor the soft ripeness to hold any attraction for me. I prefer my bed partners to be both willing and eager. But more than that, my friend — I require them to be female!" Ezra laughed delightedly, as he pulled the covers over the Texan.
"Hmm. This is real comfy, Ez. No wonder y'don't want t'crawl outta here in the mornings!"
Now that he was lying flat, Vin's headache had eased somewhat, and he didn't feel as nauseous or dizzy as he had earlier. Thinking again about how difficult it had been to negotiate the town, the tracker chewed over the problem of his continued affliction. Coming to a decision, he lifted his head a little. "Ezra, is the door closed?"
The other's quietly spoken question startled Ezra, but he strode across and firmly shut the door. "It is now. Why?"
"Ez, how would you feel if you'd bin blinded?" Sinking back against the pillows once again, Vin loosened his bandana, pulling it off and fingering it absently.
Sitting on the edge of the bed, Ezra looked sadly at his friend. "Strangely enough, since this has all happened it's a question that I have asked myself over and over again."
"And?" Vin prompted.
Ezra hesitated, staring blankly at the wall as he thought about his friend's question. Eventually he sighed heavily. "There would be no reason to carry on living," the other man answered simply.
"I thought you'd say that. Y'know how I feel then. How'd ya do it, Ez? "
Ezra's stomach did a slow queasy roll. He was sure he knew where this line of questioning was going, but was acutely aware that his friend felt unable to broach the subject with any of the other peacekeepers'.
"I think it would have to be a pistol to my head. Something quick, probably in this very room."
"Waal, I couldn't do that. It'd have t'be out in the open where I could feel the fresh air, an' be truly free. I dunno, a deep ravine mebbe, or a real high waterfall. Summat natural an' of the land. D'ya know what I mean?" Vin groped for the gambler's hand. "But I need help t'do it, Ez."
There was a note of pleading in the other's voice and Ezra felt tears well in his eyes. Swallowing hard, he gently squeezed the tracker's hand. "From me? What makes you think I would agree?"
"Know none o' the fellas 'ud help, especially Chris 'n' Nathan. I don't think they'd understand. They don't know what it's like, not bein' able t'get around an' havin' t'rely on other folks fer even the simplest things. I...I jes' can't live like this, Ezra."
Vin took a deep shuddering breath, gulping noisily as he continued. "I don't want to die, an' the thought scares the hell outta me! I allus thought the end would happen kinda... unexpected like, but... but... Dammit, Ez! This ain't living — bein' crippled like this is a slow and painful death! So I reckon I ain't got much choice."
The tracker closed his one visible eye, emotionally and physically drained now that he had disclosed his secret to the gambler.
Ezra felt as though a knife had been driven into his guts, and then twisted around to emphasise the pain even further. He still held his friend's hand, and he now tenderly cupped this in both of his. Finally he spoke, although his voice betrayed the bitter anguish he felt. "I will help you, my friend. But there is one condition."
"What?"
"Wait one week. If your eyesight doesn't return, then you have my word both as your friend and a gentleman; I will do whatever you want me to do." Ezra paused. "But Vin, this is just between you and me, agreed?"
"Agreed." The younger man visibly relaxed, as if a great weight had been lifted from him. Within a few minutes, he had drifted off to sleep.
Ezra sat for some time, still holding the tracker's slim hand while he thought about the heartbreaking promise he'd just made. Carefully placing the sleeping man's hand down on the cover, he crossed to the comfortable rocking chair in the corner and closed his eyes as he considered the problem.
The Southerner could understand what had driven the tracker to reach this juncture and, knowing how he would feel in the same position, made the gambler more determined to give his injured friend the support he wanted. Even if that meant helping the man take his own life. Vin Tanner was obviously resolute about what he would do, so Ezra had not even dreamed of trying to make him change his mind. If the tracker was able to achieve his objective, the other knew that he would have to leave town, maybe even the country. He was certain that Chris Larabee would hunt him down and have no hesitation in killing him, blaming the gambler for the disappearance and death of the tracker. While no coward, it chilled Ezra to think that he would become a target for any, or quite possibly all, of the five men he considered his closest friends. Whilst understanding why Vin had forfeited his own life, they would be unequivocally unforgiving towards him as the one who had aided the Texan in the actual deed.
Having considered the outcome of Vin's request, and his own pledge to his friend, Ezra realised he had been handed a fait accompli. He had nothing to gain and everything to lose. The only thing he could pray for was the tracker's sight returning before the week passed. He was startled out of his sombre thoughts by a soft tap on the door.
"Ezra?"
Nathan slowly opened the door, as the gambler rose. Entering the room, the healer crossed to the bed, perching on the edge, as he closely studied the slumbering tracker. "He bin asleep long?"
Ezra sat back down again, scrubbing at his jaw distractedly. "Not that long. In the recalcitrant stakes, he wins hands down every time!"
Nathan put his hand to the tracker's slack wrist, checking his friend's condition. "U'huh. I think he even whups Chris at times for pig-headed stubbornness! Lord knows where he's finding the strength, but at least he can rest here fer a few hours," the healer said softly, as he briefly felt his patient's forehead.
Gesturing to the soundly sleeping tracker, Ezra smiled broadly. "I must say, Nathan, even I believed you when you denied slipping something into Mr. Tanner's drink. That and also your dexterity in carrying out the actual manoeuvre were worthy of a New Orleans hustler! But tell me, how did you know he wouldn't drink the beer?" the gambler quietly asked.
"Waal, I didn't. It was always gonna be hard to git him t'rest, but I was being completely honest with Vin, 'though I guess it didn't look that way. The whiskey mixed with the morphine I gave him last night, an' ya saw the result. When he ordered his drink, I nearly laughed out loud in sheer relief, 'cos I knew what'd happen. Thank the Lord he didn't realise what effect the drink would have on him!" Nathan grinned, as he readjusted the cover over the sleeping man.
"Will he sleep very long?" Ezra rose, smiling briefly at his friend's peaceful repose.
"Prob'ly all night if we let 'im! But I don't want t'be the one on the sharp end of his temper if he misses out on your scheme this evening. It'll be best to wake 'im at seven so's he's ready for step three with Chris 'n' Mary. I'll bring up some water shortly; he'll need to dilute the whiskey that he drunk, an' that's the only way t'do it. Are ya stayin' up here, Ezra? Chris an' me are still downstairs, keeping watch, but the others are back on patrol. There's already bin a few fights — an' that's jes' fer starters!"
"I believe it would be prudent to remain here and provide additional security for Mr. Tanner. Could you bring me up a beer when you return?" Ezra requested. Sitting in the chair again, the gambler leaned his head back wearily, his mind once more turning over the agonising implications of the tracker's decision.
Nathan was about to leave, when something made him look again at the pre-occupied gambler. "Is there summat wrong, Ezra?"
"No, not really, but I would just like you to know that you and Mr. Larabee do not have exclusive rights when worrying about our young friend." Ezra nodded to the man in the bed to emphasise his point.
"I know. I'm sorry I yelled at ya last night, Ezra. It's not bin easy fer any of us since Vin got shot, an' it's not an' excuse, but now more than ever we need to stand together." Nathan looked sheepish for a moment.
"Yes, I quite agree." Ezra's face remained impassive, masking the emotional turmoil he felt inside.
Nathan nodded thoughtfully and, with nothing more to add, he left the room closing the door quietly behind him.
Ezra took a deck of cards from his pocket. Pulling the small table in front of him, he started to play solitaire as he waited for his friend to waken.
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