FEEDBACK: Yes Please! — HistoryWillKnowTheSeven@hotmail.com (Don't forget to tell me which story you read - Thanks)
RATING: R - for violence and sexual content. Some content may be disturbing to more sensitive readers.
UNIVERSE: Old West (The Original and Still the Best)
SERIES: History Will Know The Seven
ARCHIVE: Yes, but ask first please.
DISCLAIMER: If only wishes did come true... Reality is harsh.
John Watson and CBS own The Magnificent Seven and all of its characters.
No profit shall be received from this narrative.
I claim All Original Characters as my own.
Please, DO NOT use them without my express permission.
WRITER'S NOTES: The references to Greek Mythology used here can be found in most Encyclopedias.
It was necessary for me to learn the game of poker, although it doesn't take up a lot of the plot. I'm told I got it right.
The Native Language used here is authentic, but I did take small liberties with some of the translation. I must apologize for the appearance of the written words. The standard computer keyboard does not allow for Cheyenne punctuation.
My story has no true basis in reality, but the references made to Native American cultural beliefs have a basis in fact. The creatures of the Four Winds do exist!
This is an updated verion of the original story. I've learned a lot about writing in the past then mnths and just thought I'd make things a little easier to read. A big thanks to Elizabeth for re-posting the story.
My thanks to Antoinette for her friendship, guidance and patience. Thanks also, to Amy, for her enthusiasm and tenacity. And, thank you to Carrie and Marnie, for their eagerness to help.
For those readers who desire a little more detail, there is also an 'Adult' version of this story available on this site.
It's five weeks after 'Serpents' — late in May 1878.
The Magnificent Seven have been residents of Four Corners for a little more than two years now and JD Dunne has made himself more than comfortable in his new home. Nathan Jackson had lived here for some time already but now has added reasons to stay, while Josiah Sanchez has finally found the right place and the right friends, to shields him from his demons.
Yet, the contentment of these three is not shared by their fellow peacekeepers.
Chris Larabee is still troubled by the revelations of 'Obsession' and Ezra Standish is attempting to come to terms with the assumptions made by his associates in 'Serpents'. After 'LadyKillers', Buck Wilmington has been trying to figure out if being attached to these men is really worth the emotional turmoil and Vin Tanner has been dwelling heavily on words he spoke in 'Archilles'. It may have been a way to ask Mary Travis for help but the phrase conceals another secret for the naturally quiet, reserved man. "I'm not the way they see me not who they think I am"
The big gray horse stood in stark contrast to the outline of his rider.
A black duster and big floppy hat obscured the stranger's features. No obvious clues were visible to distinguish him or his intent. The man sat quietly contemplating the small town that had appeared in the distance.
The call of a bald eagle sounded from high above and the visitor slowly raised his head to gaze at the noble creature. His eyes narrowed and a faint smile appeared on his lips. Breathing deeply, the man glanced back at the town and patted the wolf shaped tattoo on his mount's side. Straightening in his saddle, he sighed. "The East Wind has chosen our destination, my friend." The raspy voice spoke quietly. "The two of you will rest now until the North Wind joins us. I must seek out those who shall make their own journeys."
The high-pitched cry of the wild bird compelled the horse and rider forward on their path into Four Corners.
It was nearly noon in town and the little community was attending to its usual business. Nothing much seemed out of the ordinary except perhaps, the noisy gathering at Potter's General store. The sign in the shop window announced the arrival of another shipment of stick candy and some of the younger residents had gathered out front to see what flavors were available.
Next door, Vin Tanner and John Dunne sat outside the sheriff's office. One of them at least, was watching the excitement intently. It was obvious to the sharpshooter that his younger friend could hardly contain himself.
Getting up from his chair, the kid leaned against the support beam. "Do ya have a favorite flavor, Vin?"
The tracker's famous shy grin spread wide across his face. "Don't reckon I ever had none," he said, cocking his head.
JD looked stunned as he turned to face his fellow peacekeeper. If he'd given it half a thought, he wouldn't have uttered his next words. "You're kidding... right?"
The tracker shook his head.
Realizing how stupid the question really was, the kid glanced away. Of all The Seven, Vin was the closest to his age, yet Tanner's early years had been so very different from his own. JD didn't know a lot of his friend's history but from what he did know, he guessed it would be best not to ask any more dumb questions least wise on the subject of stick candy. "Well, I'm gonna go over and see what kind Mrs. Potter got this time." The young man spoke as he headed towards the busy store.
The sharpshooter grinned, tipping his hat at his departing companion. There were days when JD earned his 'kid' nickname. It continually amazed the remainder of The Seven that he could muster enough fortitude and maturity to see a gun battle to its outcome.
Thankfully, things had been quiet in town lately.
Shaking his head at his young friend, Vin slowly guided his chair back to the dusty planks of the walkway. Getting to his feet, he stretched out his laziness. Yeah... JD still enjoys being a kid!
A gentle crosswind whipped past the tracker's ear as he stepped into the sunlight. He felt his senses jump to attention and he quickly looked about town. Everything seemed to be in its rightful place but... there was something... Vin gazed north beyond the buildings and then towards the south. Damn! Nothin'!
There wasn't anything that bothered Tanner more than not being able to pinpoint a 'reason why' when he got one of 'those' feelings. It had been nearly a week now. Something had been bothering the young man. He felt like a caged animal. Like someone was watching him... watching all of them. He took one last look north, curled his shoulders and withdrew into the jailhouse.
Glancing at the occupants of the cell, the sharpshooter cocked his head. "Bout time you let them scoundrels loose, ain't it, Josiah?" he asked, moving towards the bars.
Last night had seen a ruckus at the Standish Tavern and Ezra had been more than a little upset when the 'banisters of his Mother's establishment' had ended up in a jumbled heap at the bottom of the stairs. Needless to say, the two culprits had quickly found themselves 'incarcerated to sleeping off their evening's consumption of alcohol'.
Getting to his feet, the preacher took the keys from the post. "I reckon it would be about that time," he replied casually. Joining the tracker at the cell, Sanchez unlocked the door. As the two cowboys gathered their hats and coats, the preacher proceeded to lecture them on the virtues of being an upstanding citizen in Four Corners. He advised them to remember his words should they choose to head back this way.
Tanner followed the three as they slowly walked into the street. He looked at the big man and smirked. "Sure am glad you're on our side, Josiah." The younger man snickered as the two delinquents quickly scurried away.
Eyeing the two cowboys to make sure they were heading for the livery, Sanchez patted his friend on the shoulder. "Me too, brother," he replied happily. As they stood watching the retreating men, Josiah noticed that the tracker's body stance changed. The big man looked at Vin and instinctively followed his gaze north. Seeing nothing on the horizon, the preacher couldn't help but frown. "You still having those funny feelings of yours, son?"
"Just might..."
Neither peacekeeper had noticed Buck approach them from along the walk.
"Howdy boys," Wilmington interrupted. Receiving no response from either of his friends, the ladies' man studied them carefully. Confused by their inattention, he followed Vin and Josiah's line of sight north and strained to see. There, barely visible in the distance, was a blurred object cresting the ridge. Buck squinted his eyes again. He vaguely recognized the heat stretched image of a rider. A moment past before the rogue broke the silence. "Trouble?"
Another long minute stretched by.
Tanner's response was barely a whisper when it came. "Not sure." He studied the hazy figure carefully. The rider was still too far away to see clearly but Vin was transfixed on the image as it slowly headed toward town.
Looking back at the sharpshooter, Josiah frowned. "Should we get the others?" he asked cautiously.
A few more seconds of silence past before the tracker answered. "Not sure," he repeated again.
Now anyone that knew Buck, even just a little bit, understood that it didn't take much to get him going. With so much tension in the air, the tracker's inconclusive answers were doing a good job on the rogue's patience. He found himself getting more than a little irritated. He knew darn well, that Vin's instincts had saved their butts more than once. It just wasn't in the sharpshooter's nature to be unsure. It made Wilmington uneasy and that made him mad. "Well, just what the hell are you sure of?" he asked, moving around in front of the younger man.
The tracker didn't react to the quick movement. He simply continued his study of the approaching rider.
Tanner was too quiet for their liking and it made both Wilmington and Sanchez nervous. They exchanged anxious glances.
When the sharpshooter finally looked at Buck, his eyes twinkled and a grin formed on his lips. "Not sure," he responded, yet again.
Josiah wiped away his mischievous smirk. He could always trust in Tanner to lighten any mood, with some quick-witted response.
Slowly returning his gaze to the approaching rider, the tracker narrowed his piercing stare trying to see anything that might ease the feeling in his gut.
Buck and Josiah exchanged questioningly looks again. Alternating glances between Tanner, the visitor and each other, both men seemed doubtful of their next move.
Looking at Vin once more, Sanchez raised an eyebrow. "Best find Chris," he suggested.
Wilmington studied the preacher's expression and then nodded. "Yeah... right," he mumbled before heading off toward the Clarion.
The anniversary of Steven Travis' death was approaching and Mary was taking her son to see his grandparents. Billy had found comfort in the arms of his father's father when his nightmares had been at there worst and being with his grandfather now, proved comforting to the boy.
For the Judge and Mrs. Travis, being with their only grandson during this yearly observance made things a little easier to bear.
And, for Mary, too, the day passed easier... Having her late husband's family together lessened the tragedy for them all.
In typical fashion, the widow had been getting ready for her trip for two days now and Chris Larabee was becoming tired of all the 'maybes' and 'what ifs'. This morning alone, Mary had second-guessed herself more times, than he could count and both of them had become frustrated with the whole idea of packing.
The gunslinger found himself staring out the kitchen window while Mrs. Travis served herself a glass of lemonade. "Sure you won't have some?" she asked again. The newspaperwoman watched as Larabee shook his head in response. She smirked. Instinctively, Mary knew he was there in body alone. His spirit left an hour ago!
The gunslinger was indeed, lost in his own world. His best friend had been on edge this past week and that alone, was more than enough reason for The Seven's leader to be lost in thought. Ah, but then there was this lovely lady that he shared time with on occasion. Maybe Mary going away for three weeks a good thing... Chris needed to reckon his feelings out on this subject, too. The blond looked back at his companion and smiled. She was definitely easy to look at. If only she didn't get on his nerves so much. The two of them seemed to keep good company together and when Billy was included, the days were even better. So, if all of this were true, then why did he enjoy being alone so much? Frustrated, Larabee shook his head. There seemed to be only one thing the gunslinger was certain of. He knew he'd experienced enough changes in the last two years. He understood that he wasn't ready for anything new any time soon.
Mary had almost finished her lemonade when the man spoke. "You sure you're gonna be ready for the stage in two days?" he asked, walking through the door that separated her house from the printing office.
Mrs. Travis smiled and followed him. "Just a few last minute things and I think we'll be ready."
Neither of them really believed her declaration.
Mary glanced at the wall clock. "Oh, and just where is that boy of mine anyway?" she questioned. Just the hint of motherly disgust tainted her voice. "It's past noon and he should be home for lunch." She set hands to hips to reinforce her disappointment.
"Want me to find him?" Larabee asked with a smirk. "Bet he's over at Potter's eyeing that new batch of candy she got in."
The two smiled at each other knowingly.
Billy had a sweet tooth and none of The Seven peacekeepers did anything to discourage the habit. Mary was always scolding her son for eating too much sugar but she secretly hoped the boy could enjoy his treats as long as possible.
Walking the gunslinger to the office door, the widow shielded her eyes from the sun as he opened the door. "If you'll send him home for his lunch, I'd appreciate it." She rose a taunting finger, "And don't you go buying him any of that candy either," she scolded.
They offered each other a departing smile before Chris tipped his hat and turned toward the general store.
Mrs. Travis watched the blond as he wandered away. As much as, she liked to see him coming to greet her, she soooooo liked to watch him walk away. The widow sighed and closed the door.
Chris hadn't taken more than a dozen steps when he noticed Buck approaching. The gunslinger's instincts sprang to life as he read the concerned look on Wilmington's face. Covertly, Larabee looked around as the two peacekeepers closed in on one another. Everything seemed in order. "Buck!" he questioned, in that tone.
The tall rogue stopped beside his leader and quickly glanced toward the far off figure that appeared headed towards town.
Larabee followed his friend's gaze then looked back at the man with a puzzled expression. "What's up?" he asked. Clearly, he was unable to ascertain why a rider that far out could have set Wilmington off.
Adjusting his hat, the ladies' man huffed, "Might be the reason for Vin's mood all week."
The blond considered the statement for a long minute. "What he say?" he asked, still gazing at the far off stranger.
"Not sure," Buck replied.
Larabee made eye contact quickly. His expression conveyed to his friend that what he had said wasn't enough.
"All he keeps saying is he ain't sure," Buck tried to clarify.
Chris looked down the street towards the sheriff's office. He could see Vin and Josiah still standing in the street. The tracker's unwavering stare held the gunslinger attention. Ain't sure? It's not like Vin to be unsure of things What the hell does it mean when Tanner ain't sure of things?
Whatever it meant, the leader didn't like the feeling it left in his gut. Looking back at Buck, the gunslinger straightened his shoulder. "Get everyone together quietly. Let's just keep this low key We don't want folks thinking anything's wrong until we know more. I'll get Billy for Mary and meet you at the saloon."
The ladies' man nodded his understanding as they parted company. Maybe it wasn't gonna be another boring week after all.
A half-hour later the others were gathered around their usual table in the saloon. Buck and Nathan were busy enjoying a midday meal while JD was just finishing his. The kid scooted his plate to the center of the table and proceeded to pull a treasured stick candy from his coat pocket.
Josiah took notice of the sweet as Inez set his plate in front of him. The preacher nodded his thank you to the lovely waitress.
"I shall return at once with your meal, Señor Standish," she mentioned to Ezra before returning to the kitchen.
"At your leisure, my dear lady," the southerner called after her. "We do need to see that it is prepared as ordered."
The healer too had noticed Dunne's sweet. He couldn't help but shake his head. "You been savin' all your pennies and now you're wastin' them on candy?"
"It ain't wasted money, Nathan," JD retorted. Taking on his best 'Standish airs', he cleared his throat. "I happen to enjoy a little peppermint now and then," he smiled.
The gambler raised an eyebrow at the kid's 'Ezra' impression but decided it was in his best interest not to say a word. He simply cleared his throat loudly instead.
Both Wilmington and Sanchez chuckled to themselves at the antics.
The healer huffed at the distraction but kept his focus on Dunne. "Just you don't come lookin' for me to pull your teeth when they rot in your fool face," he cautioned. Jackson had spent enough time telling the mothers about town to watch out for their young'n's teeth. He really didn't feel that he should have to give the same speech to a fellow peacekeeper.
"Let the boy be now, Nathan," Josiah piped into coolness of their discussion. "The Lord gave us cravings for a reason," he smiled broadly.
The healer watched as Sanchez filled his mouth with another helping of the beef and gravy. "You're one tah talk," he responded gruffly. "Eating all that meat all the time." Indicating the preacher's lunch place, Jackson shook his head in disgust.
"Gentlemen please," Standish interjected as Inez set his meal before him. "Can a man not enjoy life's simplest of pleasures without constant quarrelling of his companions?"
It was obvious from the raised eyebrows around the table that some had not understood his meaning.
Acknowledging the efforts of the pretty senorita that had just provided his lunch, Ezra looked back at the men. "A good meal should be enjoyed in quiet surroundings," he tried to clarify.
Inez smiled at the southerner's politeness then turned her attentions to the tracker. "Are you sure you will not be in need of a meal, Señor Tanner?"
Vin spoke nicely, trying hard not to convey his uneasiness. "Don't care for no food right now, Miss Inez. Thank ya kindly."
She was still troubled by the sharpshooter's mood but Inez knew better than to press a topic with any of The Seven. She forced a smile and excused herself to tend to other customers.
"May we assume that you are experiencing those disturbing perceptions once again, Mr. Tanner?" Standish had also taken note of the tracker's disposition.
"That's why we're here Ez..." Buck began just as their leader entered the saloon. "And here's Chris to explain what we're gonna do now."
"Ah, yes, of course," the gambler looked displeased with Larabee's arrival. "There's nothing like a good lecture to accompany an equally good meal," he added, trying hard to refocus on the lunch. Ignoring the gunslinger's glare was difficult at the best of times. If you presumed that you knew him well enough, you could guess what mood he was in. And, right now, Ezra knew that their leader was all business.
The blond looked around the saloon and saw that the usual assortment of townsfolk had gathered to talk, eat and drink. His eyes came to rest at the table where his men were sitting. One of them in particular he was anxious to talk to. As he approached, Larabee could see that the sharpshooter was lost in his own thoughts.
"Chris," Buck acknowledged, pulling out the remaining chair for his friend.
The gunslinger sat down and looked around the table. He studied his men carefully, as though judging which was prepared for what may come next. Again, his gaze fixed on Tanner. Resting his folded hands on the table, Larabee's eyes moved to his fingers. "What's up Vin?" he asked without raising his head.
There was a long silence.
The tracker's reply was short when it finally came. "Not sure."
"Oh, would ya give it a rest," Wilmington spoke with annoyance as he rose from his chair. "That's all ya said for the last hour."
"Sit down, Buck," Chris commanded forcefully. Still his gaze did not move. "If Vin ain't sure... then we need to be." This time his voice was calm and serious.
Those few words drew the attention of the other five peacekeepers and the rogue sat back down.
"I need more, Vin," Larabee spoke quietly. "What exactly ain't you sure of?"
Tanner didn't know how to answer his leader. He'd tried to explain his instincts before. It just wasn't something that you could spell out easily... especially to someone who didn't get the strong intuitive feelings. Perhaps it would help if he had a direct question to answer.
"Is this man a threat?" the gunslinger added softly. He'd sensed his best friend's need for something more to work with.
Vin raised his head slightly. "Don't think so... least wise not like other folks carryin' a gun."
Larabee turned his head to look at Vin. Somewhere behind those sparkling blue eyes was a man trying to make sense of what he couldn't yet see. Their leader took one more look around the table and then began handing out orders. "Buck, I want you and Josiah to ride out around our visitor and make sure he's alone."
Two heads nodded their acknowledgment as Sanchez quickly emptied his plate.
"Nathan and JD you two double check around the town. Make sure we know who's here and who ain't."
Mumbled responses told Chris he had been understood.
"Ezra!" The gunslinger waited until he had the gambler's attention away from his lunch. "When you're ready..." he glared, "you check the telegraph office for any new wires or messages and then head over to the jail." Larabee glanced around the table again. "I don't want this fella riding into town thinking there's no sheriff."
"Don't got 'a worry about that none," the tracker said quietly. He looked at his friends sedately. "This one knows we're here. He's been watchin'..." Vin got to his feet and walked to the window. "Been watchin' real close..."
The tension in the air could have been cut with a knife. The men all knew that the sharpshooter often gave them their first warnings when something wasn't right. Seeing him like this was unnerving for the peacekeepers and their varying degrees of uneasiness showed as they moved out slowly to attend to the assignments.
Watching his companions slowly leave, Ezra finished his meal and wiped his face on his handkerchief. "May I presume that you and Mr. Tanner will be greeting our guest when he arrives in our fair community?" Standish asked casually.
The gunslinger was intent on watching Vin and chose not to answer the gambler's question.
Sensing he would receive no response to his query, the southerner stood up and excused himself. He exited the saloon leaving his associates to talk amongst themselves. Stopping suddenly, Standish shook his head trying to dismiss his own thoughts. Such a fine witticism, Ezra! Mr. Larabee and Mr. Tanner actually engaged in verbal conversation... never happen!
It was late afternoon and town business was drawing to a close.
Buck and Josiah rode into town at a gallop and came to a stop outside the sheriff's office.
Chris sat with his feet up against the rail while the sharpshooter leaned against the support beam with his hat pulled down over his eyes. Vin took no notice of the riders. His eyes were closed and he was listening to the wind.
The two peacekeepers dismounted as Larabee looked at them waiting for a report.
The preacher answered his leader's questioning eyes. "Only things out beyond town are the landscape and the creatures that the good lord put on this great earth." Josiah looked around their little community as if making sure that everything was still in its place. "I'll tend to our four legged friends," he offered as he took Buck's reins from him and headed for the livery.
The tall rogue acknowledged the older man's gesture with a nod.
As Sanchez moved off down the street, the blond turned to his oldest friend. "How far out?"
Wilmington was about to answer.
From wherever he had gone, the tracker responded dryly. "Few minutes."
The ladies' man laughed and glanced at the sharpshooter. "He's right, of course." Buck sometimes wished he could see that clearly without looking. Suddenly realizing the profoundness of his thoughts, Buck frowned. Vin ain't seeing with his eyes — he's feeling with his gut.
The gunslinger looked at Tanner curiously. "Getting anything else?"
Silence.
Chris rose from his chair and opened the jailhouse door. "Ezra... get out here!" he commanded.
His order was carried out with all due haste.
"Buck," Chris motioned the tall rogue to join them on the walk. He wanted to make a strong statement as the stranger made his way into town. Four determined sheriffs standing on guard in front of their office should do the trick he hoped.
The three peacekeepers looked around at each other and the town they had promised to defend. All was in good order right now. Their expectations were high that it would stay that way.
Movement from Tanner refocused their wandering thoughts. "Rider coming in," the tracker said coolly. He stood up straight and moved the hat back on his head.
They all watched as the visitor rounded the corner at the north end of town. Seemingly played out in slow motion, the man's ride down Main Street took forever.
The four peacekeepers focused on specific details as the visitor approached and then moved on by
Chris was transfixed on the weaponry that the stranger had in his possession. A new Winchester rifle was held securely in a fancy sheath, well within the man's reach. Twin, pearl handled colts rested on their owner's hips. And. like most of the visitor, the pistols were barely visible under a black duster. A lot of what Larabee saw reminded him of himself and just like him too, Larabee surmised that this man had also seen a fight or two in his day.
Ezra took in the stranger's clothing. The man swayed with the gentle movement of his animal and the southerner was able to distinguish a mixture of tanned hide, fur and regular clothing from underneath the duster. The visitor's boots were high quality and his spurs glistened in the sunlight. A large floppy hat hid the stranger's face. Standish raised an eyebrow. A good amalgamation of our own Mr. Larabee and Mr. Tanner! How curious!
Wilmington had his eye more on the horse, than its rider. It was a beautiful, big gray that moved ever so gracefully for such a large animal. The saddle that held his rider looked real expensive to the ladies' man, yet he had noticed the man used no bit, bridles or reins. Impressive Beast. Funny don't look like that pony's been shod neither. Strange!
The tracker busied himself carefully studying everything within his sight. Just like the 'feelings' he'd been having all week, the images he saw now made no sense either. Most things he'd encountered in life had a set path yet; he saw nothing he could recognize in this stranger. Yearning for more information, the sharpshooter closed his eyes — perhaps his heart could tell him more.
Without warning, Tanner could feel the visitor in his mind. He quickly absorbed the knowledge that the stranger survived on instincts that he had barely begun to grasp. Vin also realized that he could do little to stop the probing that was going on inside his thoughts. He winced trying to fight off the intrusion. This was a battle he wasn't sure he could win.
The stranger continued his journey down Main Street.
From high above Four Corners, the call of a bald eagle commanded the sharpshooter's attention. A crosswind whipped at his locks as he glanced skyward to see the circling bird. An eagle — the West Wind.
Abruptly, the tracker found himself trying to remember an old Indian legend Quickly glancing back at the stranger and his horse, the young man took a step forward. The Four Winds together? Couldn't be! Could it? Tanner narrowed his gaze. He suddenly felt a desperate need to make eye contact with the... stranger What? What else is wrong? No, not wrong... different!
Their friend's movement hadn't escaped the other peacekeeper's attention. They exchanged questioning glances, each sensing Tanner's uneasiness, yet they were intent on providing a united front. The four sheriffs had made their display hard to miss; yet, the rider moved past the jailhouse without incident and continued down the street.
Some of the locals had noticed the show of force as well. They seemed to back away as the stranger moved through town.
Coming to a stop outside the hotel, the man dismounted and turned slowly to face the peacekeepers. He stood motionless for several long seconds before gradually raising his head to study the lawmen standing defiantly on the boardwalk.
Another long moment past in silence and then the raspy voice finally spoke, seemingly to himself. "Four?"
Unwavering in their stance, the stranger and sheriffs simply stood and stared.
The visitor studied each of the peacekeepers in turn. The fancy gentleman standing on the left held his gaze first.
This man's secrets were closer to the surface than the rest of his companions. He tried hard to hide his fears and doubts but the stranger could read them easily. Trust, confidence and reassurance would be readily conveyed to this man.
Next to him stood a tall, handsome cowboy...
The visitor could sense strong emotions from this one. The man possessed fire but did not understand how to properly use it. His focus was on his friends and their task yet, the stranger recognized that the man could not comprehend how much he influenced his companions and in turn, cemented their bond
The dark presence that stood beside the cowboy sent a shudder though the stranger's mind.
This one was isolated from everybody and everything. No emotion escaped his face or his heart. The visitor understood that this one might be his greatest challenge. He hoped the dark one would reveal himself before they confronted one another.
The man's gaze came to rest on the final member of this quartet.
He had seen inside this man long before coming here. This one had been exposed to the tribes and respected the teachings of the elders. He understood much, yet there was still room to learn. His mind was free, yet he concealed a secret deep inside. This one would not trust easily and would take time.
The stranger looked at the men again. "Four separate paths to walk." he took in a deep pensive breath. "These journeys may take more — than I have to give." The visitor took another long, thoughtful breath before casually turning away. He carefully removed his saddlebags and rifle. Patting the horse gently, the man whispered in its ear before heading into the hotel. He never looked back.
Sitting innocently in the foyer of the Hotel, Jackson eyed the visitor as he entered the business and went to the desk.
The man set his bags down on the counter but held on tightly to the rifle.
The healer tried not to look like he was interested but it was obvious that the stranger knew he was being watched.
The man studied his environment like a seasoned veteran and only spoke when he laid two silver dollars on the counter and asked for 'A good room at the front'.
Thaddeus Perkins shied back from the raspy voice and glanced quickly over to the only peacekeeper in view.
Nathan nodded in reassurance, trying to calm the proprietor's anxious plea.
Seeing Jackson's calm demeanor, Mr. Perkins signed the stranger in and handed him a key.
The visitor gathered up his saddlebags and made ready to go up the stairs.
Jackson tensed as the man hesitated. It looked as thought the shadowy figure would turn and face him.
Instead, the stranger only paused briefly before continuing on his way. He disappeared around the second floor banisters.
The healer waited a few seconds before he moved to the counter. He assured Perkins that everything was under control and checked the registry.
The ledger read — Athena
Josiah entered the sheriff's office and looked questioningly at the others.
Buck was about to fill him in when the kid jumped up from his perch against the window. "Here comes Nathan," he called out excitedly. The moments it took the healer to join them seemed like an hour to JD and his questions spilled forth as Jackson came in. "Did ya get a look at 'im? ...Did he say anythin'?"
Wilmington pulled Dunne aside. "Slow down, kid," he coached. Now was not the time for Larabee to be loosing his cool with their youngest member.
Chris hadn't taken his eyes off Nathan and it was obvious he was waiting for a report.
Nathan could feel his leader's gaze. "No, I didn't see his face," he glanced at Dunne and answered his first question. "His voice was real quiet though. Sounds like he's got a bad throat or somethin'. Real scratchy like."
Six men were listening to what the healer had to say yet; Tanner stood by the window with his eyes closed. He hadn't spoken a word since the rider had paraded himself down the street. And, while that wasn't unusual for Vin, all of the men could sense the uneasiness coming from the young man.
Jackson looked at his leader. "He never let go of his rifle and paid up front with two silver dollars."
Ezra eyed the healer with interest at the information. Perhaps the visitor had other means that he wished to be relieved of.
"Asked for a room at the front of the building. Perkins gave him number four."
Five attentive men all noted that most of the town could be seen from this vantage point. The bank, the general store and the office in which they now sat, were of particular importance.
Nathan continued. "He signed the register... A. Thena" he mispronounced the signature.
Josiah sat up, perhaps recognizing the name. "You mean, Athena?" the preacher correct.
"Yeah... maybe!" Jackson shrugged his shoulders.
Larabee gazed at the oldest member of the group. "That mean somethin' to you, Josiah?"
Sanchez frowned. He knew he'd heard the name before — but he wasn't sure of the details. "Greek, I think... God of War, maybe?"
"War?" JD blurted out.
All of the peacekeepers had the same question on their lips and an uneasy silence settled over the room.
"Your voice has a questioning tone to it, my good man," noted the gambler. "Perhaps you are not convinced that your information is accurate." Always the optimistic, Standish was trying to calm their moods before they got out of hand.
Josiah cocked his head. He considered the question and then turned for the door. "I'll check my books. I know I have the name somewhere." The preacher looked toward his leader. The blond showed no signs of objecting so Sanchez dismissed himself to investigate this name.
It was getting late and the sun was cresting the hills behind the jailhouse.
"And our next course of action?" queried the southerner.
Larabee shot him his infamous stare and Ezra licked his lips before lowering his head away from the piercing green eyes.
Chris lowered his own head and then turned to face the sharpshooter. "Vin?" He tried to bring the tracker back from where ever he had gone.
Tanner moved his head from shoulder to shoulder and wakened unto the world. Five sets of mystified eyes met his and all the tracker could do was smile. He looked at the blond and shook his head. "Don't know what tah tell ya, Chris," he spoke apprehensively.
Vin's instincts were raw. Nothing made much sense. And, to top it all off, he had this nagging feeling in the back of his mind. He was desperately trying to remember the old story he'd heard... 'Winds of Change', maybe? The sharpshooter knew he wasn't ready to say anything yet.
Standish was decidedly more confused than he let on. "That is most reassuring, Mr. Tanner."
"So we just sit and wait?" the kid blurted out again.
Larabee glared at the youngest peacekeeper then looked back at the tracker.
Frustrated, Vin pursed his lips and turned to look out the window.
Wilmington glanced outside too and spotted the stranger moving back into the street. "Well, while you boys figure out what to do next. I'm just gonna tag along with our new friend here and see what he's up to." Moving to the door, the ladies' man looked back at the others happily before departing.
Standing outside the Hotel, the stranger was still hidden from clear view by his duster and hat.
The tall rogue stopped by the bank and watched, as the man stood motionless beside his mount. Again, he appeared to be talking to the beast. Buck's keen eye suddenly observed a change in posture.
Somehow, the visitor became aware that he was being watched. He glanced over his shoulder in Wilmington's direction.
How the hell'd he know?
The exchange was brief and the stranger turned and walked south toward the livery.
The horse followed without being led, as did the ladies' man. Buck was truly bewildered by the silent understanding this man had with the beautiful animal.
The stranger led his mount down the alleyway between the livery and the exchange. Once in the field, the elegant beast stood patiently while his owner removed the saddle and blanket. The visitor gently patted the horse down as the lone peacekeeper observed covertly.
The horse and his owner moved about gracefully and an unusual branding on the horse's withers grabbed the rogue's attention. He squinted, trying to get a better look and then frowned. Looks like a damn wolf! Yet, as Buck continued to watch, curiosity slowly escaped his consciousness. The stranger's slow purposeful movements mesmerized him. He couldn't help but be fascinated by the apparent connection the pair held with each other. Wilmington cocked his head, as the animal seemed prepared to leave. If he didn't know better, he would have sworn that the horse thanked his master before it galloped away into the meadow. Distracted by his keen observations, the ladies' man stepped out of the shadows. "How'd you expect tah get that beast back?" the perplexed man asked aloud.
Ignoring the question, the stranger picked up the blanket and saddle.
Buck had been hoping to catch a glimpse of the visitor's face as he turned back towards the hotel. Yet, with the setting sun behind him, his features were still hidden within shadows and clothing.
Barely glancing in Wilmington's direction, the stranger passed by.
He hadn't been able to distinguish any features but, for some unknown reason, the peacekeeper could have sworn that the stranger was smiling at him. Narrowing his gaze suspiciously, he followed the visitor with his eyes until he disappeared from view. The rogue scratched the back of his head and turned back towards the meadow. He was confused. It didn't make sense. What did I just see?
Morning arrived in Four Corners and the town went about its usual business. The peacekeepers were again gathering at the jailhouse. The healer had been the first to arrive, bringing with him some breakfast for himself and the kid.
The ladies' man came bounding into the room in an unusual energetic mood. "Morning boys," he quipped before moving to the stove to pour himself coffee.
JD looked at his friend hesitantly. "You're in a fine mood this morning, Buck."
"Yeah," Nathan added. "Must mean he had more than himself for company last night."
The rogue laughed happily. "I did indeed." Quickly swiping the kid's last piece of bacon, he grinned. "Mighty fine company she was, too."
"Hey..." JD objected loudly. "Get your own." With no desire to lose anymore of his breakfast, he moved his plate out of Wilmington's reach.
The door opened and three sets of eyes focused on the tracker as he lumbered in the door. Varying degrees of amusement could be read on the faces.
Buck's laughter grew louder and swiftly became contagious. "Just what in the hell, did you get into last night, cowboy?"
The question was meant to annoy the sharpshooter but Vin's mind was too turbulent to care. Tanner looked like he'd been dragged through hell and back and hadn't slept for a week on top of it. "Spent the night tossin' and turnin' in ma wagon. Didn't get much sleep." Reaching for a cup, he knocked it on the floor.
Showing his concern by gathering up the cup, Wilmington poured the man a coffee "That's kind 'a obvious." he quipped.
The tracker and the ladies' man sat down at the desk.
Dunne tried to hide his amusement. "You look like hell, Vin." His observation was matter-of-fact.
Accepting the coffee from Wilmington, Tanner huffed. "Feel like it, too."
Clearing his plate and moving it to the table beside the door, Jackson looked at his friend questioningly. "What's wrong, Vin?"
The sharpshooter looked at Nathan and tried to figure out how to answer his question. The simplest way seemed to be straight out. "Reckon it was fine tah start," he smiled. "They was nice... invitin' like. I didn't pay 'em no mind," he looked at the healer and nodded. "When JD took watch I was ready for some sleep." Straightening in his chair, the tracker continued. "But every time I closed my eyes — they was there."
Always interested in a good story, JD was more than curious by now. "Who?"
"Not who, kid... What! ...A voice. Couldn't make out what it said but it wouldn't shut up..." Vin drifted off. Clearly unsettled, Tanner swallowed down some of the black liquid. "And them eyes..." he blurted out. "They was beautiful... but they just kept staring at me..."
The sharpshooter's recollections were interrupted as Josiah entered the office. He anxiously looked around the room. "Where's Chris and Ezra?" he asked of no one in particular.
"Well... we can assume Standish is still curled up in his feather bed," Jackson mused.
The tall rogue raised an eyebrow. "Chris stayed in town last night, so he might be havin' breakfast with Mary and Billy."
"Alright!" Josiah commanded. "JD, you go get Ezra out of bed."
The kid looked at him in horror.
"What's up, Josiah?" Buck questioned.
The preacher seemed a little apprehensive as he looked around at the gathered men. "I found some interesting information on Athena," he replied. Sanchez wanted to relay his discovery because he needed to know if the other found it as strange as he did. "It's best we hear it together." His eyes came to rest on the Kid.
Getting to his feet and heading for the door, Dunne complained loudly. "Jeez... all right," he huffed. "You know Ezra's real grumpy if he gets woke before he's ready," he mumbled as he closed the door. It was obvious to all that the kid wasn't happy.
Wilmington was snickering to himself when Josiah spoke again.
"Buck, you go get Chris."
"Can do my friend," Buck quipped happily. Setting down his coffee, he got to his feet and headed for the door.
The Travis kitchen was a flurry of activity as the newspaperwoman jostled papers while trying to get her wayward son fed and off to their makeshift school. Billy had finally finished his breakfast and was collecting his books and coat.
Mary was wearing her printing apron and was proof reading an article when the boy announced he was ready for school. "Let me see you," she put down her paper and moved over to her son. Straightening his shirt collar, she pulled his coat on properly. "Yes, I think you are ready," she fussed as they walked toward the door.
The ladies' man entered as the widow reached for the knob. "Mornin', Mrs. Travis," he tipped his hat. "Hey there, big fella," he added, ruffling Billy's hair. Turning his attention back to the lady, Buck continued, "You seen Chris this mornin', ma'am?" he asked, looking around the room.
"No, actually," Mary began, "I had thought I might see him for breakfast but he hasn't been around." Conscious of the time, the woman guided her son through the door and into the street.
The tall rogue followed right behind.
"Is there something wrong, Mr. Wilmington?" the widow asked curiously. She always tried to be on top of local news and she'd heard of a stranger in town.
"Oh... no, ma'am!" Buck tried to steer her away from the subject at hand. Knowing Mary Travis the way he did, the man knew she'd be looking for a story and they didn't need her causing problems with the visitor before they knew what was going on. "We were just gonna have a meetin' and we was waitin' on Chris. Josiah sent me tah look for him."
"Well, I'm afraid I can't help you, Buck," Mary smiled as she straightened Billy's coat again.
"Ah... ma," the boy protested.
"Would ya like me tah escort Billy to the exchange, Mrs. Travis?"
"I can see ma self tah school," objected the younger Travis.
"Billy!" Mary scolded. It was obvious that she did not approve of her son's pronunciation. "You know better." She turned to Wilmington and conveyed her disapproval with a glare. "No, thank you, Buck."
Stifling a smirk, the rogue cleared his throat. "All right, thank ya, ma'am," he tipped his hat again. "I'll try someplace else." Stepping off the boardwalk, the ladies' man removed his hat and scratched the back of his head as he looked around. A customary action Buck engaged in when he was thinking too much, he replaced it and headed off down the street.
The ladies' man was moving back toward the sheriff's office when he spotted the town's newest visitor heading in the direction of livery. Briefly thinking over yesterday's display, Wilmington was more curious than he cared to admit. He followed the man down the alleyway and out to the meadow, exactly as he had done the day before.
Still hidden behind his duster and hat, the stranger stood in the tall grass with his hands outstretched slightly in the air.
Although Buck still couldn't see the man's face clearly, he could swear that his eyes were closed.
The minutes ticked slowly by and the ladies' man simply stood and watched.
The stranger neither moved nor spoke.
Wilmington was perplexed yet again. What the hell's he doin?
Suddenly there was a noise in the distance.
The rogue watched in amazement as the big gray came into view and slowly made its way to his owner. The horse nuzzled the man's hands as they met and the stranger nuzzled back.
Buck smiled. It was rare to find another man who cared about his animal, the way Wilmington did about his own. It was rarer still to find a horse that returned the affection. For just a moment, the ladies' man was jealous. You idiot! Buck chastised when he realized he'd let his guard down.
The horse was at arm's length and the man stood completely still.
Wilmington tensed. He was ready, should the stranger draw on him.
But that didn't happen.
In a slow, almost graceful movement, the man lowered his head before turning to look at the tall rogue over his shoulder. He smiled at Wilmington for what seemed like forever before turning his attention back to the horse. The pair slowly walked into the field.
Buck felt like a fool. He'd played right into the stranger's hand. And yet... somehow the peacekeeper felt that the man didn't mean him any harm. But, he wasn't completely convinced ... he just had a feeling. Shaking his head at the whole event, Wilmington turned and walked back towards the sheriff's office.
Six peacekeepers were gathered in their office awaiting the return of their seventh. All had reported the previous night's activities to their leader when the door opened. Wilmington walked in and took up a place beside Dunne.
The kid looked at him oddly. "What happened to you?"
Buck looked at him questioningly. He hadn't even considered that he might look different after his encounter with their visitor. His didn't even realize that his face was still flushed. Shrugging his shoulders, the ladies' man did his best to provide an answer. "Didn't reckon one of Tanner's feelin's would rub off on me," he said bluntly. He was still a little uneasy about what had happened.
Vin looked across at the rogue with more than a little smirk on his face.
Larabee's expression made it clear that he had no idea what his oldest friend was talking about.
"I do realize it is exceedingly early, Mr. Wilmington," Standish began. "But do you feel yourself capable of making any sort of coherent statements this morning?" Although it was too early for the gambler, he could still muster his characteristic sarcasm.
For his part, the rogue was even more confused with the statement than he was with what he had just witnessed. "What?" he looked at the southerner with an exasperated glare.
"I dare say your previous uttering requires a little more explanation."
"Oh..." Buck hesitated. "Ever... get one of those feelin's?" he questioned slowly.
Several heads acknowledged that they might understand what Wilmington was talking about.
"All the time," Vin piped up. There was just the slightest hint of 'I told you so' in his voice.
Buck scowled at the tracker.
"So what feeling did you get?" Larabee questioned sarcastically. He'd experience a few of 'those feelings' himself, now and then.
The ladies' man considered the question and decided it was best to just relate the story as it happened. As he explained about last night and this morning, the others listened quietly.
Tanner seemed to become uneasy during Buck recollections but he chose to say nothing.
It was only when Wilmington related the non-threatening feelings under the stranger's stare that the silence was broken.
"You mean... a man smiled at ya and you went all gooey!" JD blurted out.
Buck swiped the kid across the head. "No!" he said, quite exasperated with Dunne's statement. "I just felt like he ain't here to hurt us... that's all."
"There may be something to your vision, son," Sanchez spoke up. "In fact, I may have an explanation for the way you felt."
Everyone shifted their attention to the preacher.
"Go on, Josiah," Chris prompted.
"Well, I did a little reading last night. I knew I'd heard the name Athena." He held up a book on mythology. "Sure enough, I found it. This text relates stories from the ancient world. Rome, Greece and the likes." He looked around to confirm that everyone was still with him and continued. "The Greek deity Athena was indeed the god of war." Josiah could see some of the others shift in their stance but he continued. "This god didn't wage wars though. Athena was not a fighter... but a protector for all who fought."
"So... what," the kid interrupted. "He's gonna protect us in a fight."
"Now that ain't such a bad thing," Nathan added optimistically. "We could use someone to protect our backs once in a while." He raised his eyebrows and smiled. "We've been alright of late, mind ya."
"There is one more important point I must make, brothers," Josiah spoke again. "Athena was not a god."
"But you said..." JD interrupted.
Josiah laid a hand on the kid's shoulder and continued. "Athena was a goddess."
The room was silent as the six peacekeepers digested what their oldest member had just relayed.
JD turned slowly to look at rogue. "A woman?" he almost choked on the words. Putting a little distance between himself and Wilmington, the kid spoke gruffly. "Figures!"
For his part, Buck was grinning from ear to ear. A woman! Now that just might explain a feelin' or two.
Standish raised an eyebrow. "I find it hard to comprehend that the creature we observed parading into our little community yesterday, could possibly be of the female persuasion."
Jackson nodded. "I agree with Ezra."
The tracker suddenly changed the conversation. "What about the wolf?"
Buck looked at the sharpshooter with a confused look on his face.
"You get a good look at it?"
"Horse ain't had no blanket on since sundown, Vin."
"A wolf!" Tanner repeated to himself. He looked up at the ladies' man. "What kind?"
It was obvious to everyone present that the sharpshooter might be on to something.
"Just looked like a plain ol' gray wolf."
The tracker was silent as he moved around the table. He considered the facts for a moment. They rode south into town... It was a westerly crosswind that told him of their approach...The eagle! "Did you see any mark on this..." he considered Josiah's last remark, " his rider?" What if he found another sign?
"He's..." Buck too was considering the preacher's words. "Still covered up. Ain't had no chance to see the face, let alone any markin's." Wilmington shifted position as he thought about it. "Hell, it could be a woman, I suppose... What you lookin' for, Vin?" he glanced at the tracker.
There was a long pause before the sharpshooter spoke. "Another wolf?"
The remaining members of the group were completely lost by this point.
Jackson frowned. "I don't follow ya, Vin?"
The sharpshooter seemed to be referring to something he'd learned living with the Indians but no one was sure.
"An old tale... I heard once," Tanner slowly responded. He wandered over to the door. "A legend..." Clearly, the tracker was unsettled about something but no one understood his meaning.
"I need time..." Vin glanced at Larabee. "I'm gonna take a ride..."
Chris nodded as his best friend reached for the door and opened it.
The Seven peacekeepers stood motionless as the object of their discussions stood in the open doorway.
Mrs. Travis had joined Gloria Potter as they watched their children wandered down the street toward the town's makeshift schoolhouse. It seemed that the grain exchange served as many a missing building in their small town and neither woman was sure if things would change once the new schoolmistress arrived. Seeing her friend back inside the general store, the newspaperwoman was about to turn back towards the Clarion when she caught sight of a stranger walking back from the livery. The man wasn't overly tall but he reminded the widow of another dark clad figure that paraded around town.
Mary's eyes tracked the man as he walked across the street.
Suddenly he stopped and turned his head, almost as though someone had called his name. Each movement the stranger made was as if played out in slow motion.
The widow moved back towards Potter's Store and slipped inside. She watched through the window as the stranger stepped slowly towards the sheriff's office and stood silently outside the door.
It seemed as if the man stood waiting for several minutes before it opened. Mary frowned. He didn't knocked! How did they know he was there?
Without warning, the stranger was jerked inside the building and the door slammed loudly behind him.
Mrs. Travis was certain that someone had grabbed the man and pulled him inside forcefully. Immediately thinking of the story potential behind what she had just witnessed, Mary headed towards the sheriff's office.
They had all been surprised when the tracker had opened the door to find the stranger standing there. What had surprised the six men more, however, was the way Vin had reacted.
Tanner grabbed the visitor by the collar, dragged him roughly inside and slammed the door. The tracker was uncharacteristically angry as he pulled off the stranger's hat and duster.
The visitor made no attempt to fight off the sharpshooter's actions and a long braid of dirty blond hair fell from beneath the hat.
Vin continued to pull at the clothing.
As the stranger's coat was removed, it became evident to all that this was indeed a woman. A white woman at that! She was now wearing only a vest, shirt and pants. Her colts were belted tightly to her hips.
The sharpshooter slowly lifted her head to stare into her eyes. He pursed his lips defiantly as he recognized the piercing hazel orbs from his dreams. Something inside Tanner was driving him to find out why she was really here. His senses had been messed up for almost a week now and if that old tale was true... there could only be one explanation. Spinning the woman around hastily, Vin threw her over the desk.
Still she made no move to object.
The tracker continued his onslaught as he pulled at the girl's vest. He yanked the shirt out of her pants and pushed both garments toward the back of the girl's head.
The soft curves before them escaped no one's notice and Jackson could hold his tongue no longer. "What you doin', Vin?" Nathan moved instinctively to protect the woman.
Pulling the healer back, Josiah spoke calmly. "Let him alone, brother!" Tanner was frantically looking for something and Sanchez could feel that his young friend desperately needed to find it.
Mary could hear movement inside the sheriff's office and then what sounded like an argument. Never having been accused of keeping her nose from other people business, she swung opened the door.
The newspaperwoman was immediately confronted with a scene she would never have expected to see. There in front of her, was a young woman being forcibly laid over a table. A man Mary believed she knew was trying to remove her clothing and his fellow peacekeepers stood by, apparently doing nothing about the situation. "What's going on?" she questioned. There was a hint of disbelief in her voice and a whole lot of anger.
They all realized immediately, what Mary must be thinking and Larabee grabbed her arm and tried to escort the woman from their office.
The widow was having none of it as she pulled her arm from his grasp. She wanted an explanation and the look she bestowed on all of them was worthy of Chris himself.
As the blond tried again to get Mary out of there, he shot the tracker a comparable look.
Tanner let up on his victim and the woman slowly straightened up. Mrs. Travis and The Seven peacekeepers watched in silence as the woman transformed herself back into the strange figure that had presented herself at the door, just a few short minutes ago. Straightening the duster on her shoulders, she proceeded to tuck her hair up inside her hat.
Dunne's mouth had hung open for the past few minutes. He couldn't understand what had just transpired but he also couldn't grasp why the woman had appeared at the door in the first place. "How'd you know we was talkin' 'bout ya?" JD asked inquisitively. He could think of no other reason why she had come to their office.
It was clear that the stranger was considering the question as she calmly walked past the widow and stood in the doorway. "He who sees... tells all," a soft voice replied before she walked out and closed the door behind her.
A long, uneasy quiet settled over the room and no one seemed to know what to do next. The happenings of the last few minutes had left them all lost.
Mrs. Travis broke the silence. "Would someone please care to explain?" she asked, instinctively looking at the leader of The Seven.
Chris had no idea how to answer her. He wasn't sure he understood himself. He shot the sharpshooter his infamous glare once more and then gave Mary his best smile. Opening the door and guiding her through it, the blond made a suggestion. "Let's get some lemonade."
As he made his way across to the saloon, Larabee could see Vin sitting outside their office. It had taken most of the morning but the gunslinger had managed to convince the newspaperwoman that there wasn't a story to be told here. Chris wasn't sure if she believed him. He had tried to distract Mary by suggesting that she get ready for her trip tomorrow. They had no idea why or how long the stranger would be in town... maybe it was a good thing that the widow was leaving for a while.
Glaring at Tanner once more, the blond entered the Standish Tavern and headed to the corner table.
Like all good proprietors, Inez immediately sensed the gunslinger's mood and grabbed some glasses and a whiskey bottle from behind the bar.
Buck had seen his oldest friend heading for the corner booth and quickly joined the leader as the pretty senorita made herself scarce. "You get her calmed down?" Wilmington asked, not really expecting a response.
Larabee poured himself a shot. "He said anything yet?" Chris asked of the reclusive tracker. The blond was none to calm himself right now and he emptied the glass quickly.
The rogue filled his glass and swallowed hard. "Not a word. Just sits out there with his eyes closed." He topped up both, near empty containers. "Can't figure what's gotten in to him."
Joining his fellow peacekeepers, Sanchez spoke softly, "Who's to judge what drives a man to do anything, son?"
"Come on now, Josiah," Wilmington retorted. "What we saw in there ain't the Vin Tanner we know." He poured the big man a whiskey.
"All men have their demons, Buck. None of us really know him well enough to see inside his heart." Raising eyebrows almost simultaneously, the two men looked at their leader. If any of them might be able to explain the sharpshooter's actions, it was Larabee.
Catching the questioningly looks, the frustrated gunslinger swallowed down another drink. "Don't look at me!" he rose to his feet. "I ain't got a clue," he looked at the others before turning for the door. "But I'm aiming to find out!" he called back.
Buck and Josiah looked at each and shrugged. They swallowed down their drinks knowingly getting ready for the storm that was coming.
Vin was still sitting against the porch of the sheriff's office but it was the stranger that held Larabee's attention as she emerged into the sunlight. For the first time she was outside without the duster, yet her thigh length coat still hid her female shape well. A brief remembrance of her curves flashed through his mind as Chris watched her slowly walk across the street.
Making her way to the tracker she stood silently in front of him... and waited.
Several long seconds passed before Tanner looked up.
Their exchange was silent but Larabee had no doubt that they had spoken.
Getting to his feet, the sharpshooter entered the jailhouse.
The woman followed him and closed the door.
Chris slowly crossed the street and casually peered through the window of their office. The two inside had moved to the back of the jail and stood in silence. The woman slowly removed her hat and smiled alluringly at the tracker.
For the first time, Larabee noticed her beautiful hazel eyes. They seemed to see right through his best friend.
Removing her coat, the stranger slowly began to unbutton her vest and shirt.
As she turned from his gaze, the sharpshooter remained motionless in front of her.
The gunslinger wasn't sure what he was watching but he couldn't pull himself away. He was both mystified and curious at the events unfolding in front of him.
Her clothing probably completely unbuttoned, the woman looked over her shoulder at the sharpshooter.
Appearing to respond to her gaze, Tanner reached for her shirt.
For an instant, Larabee considered going to the woman's aid but this time the tracker's actions showed no violence, as they had done earlier that day. The blond watched and wondered as his friend slowly pulled the shirt down the woman's shoulder. Her soft, naked skin revealed a mark. Chris tried to see the blemish clearly but Vin was partially blocking his view. Must be what he was looking for!
The tracker caressed the shape gently then lowered his head.
The gunslinger could see it clearly now. The mark looked to be a tattoo... maybe... another wolf. A red wolf! He frowned. Thought there weren't any of them left. He continued to watch as the tracker let the woman's clothes go.
She stood quietly re-buttoning her shirt and vest. When she was done, she turned and smiled softly at the sharpshooter before replacing her hat and coat. The couple exchanged no words during all this time.
As walked toward the door, Chris slipped around the corner of the building and into the shadows.
Exchanging one last glance with Tanner, the woman walked away as silently as she had arrived... and this time the tracker watched her go.
As she reached the other side of the street Vin turned his head slightly. "You can come out now," he said quietly.
Larabee shouldn't have been surprised that his friend knew he was there. He emerged from the shadows and sat beside his friend as Tanner settled back to his chair. "She know I was there, too?" he asked. Chris already knew the answer.
It's strange how silence can say so much... but when it passed between these two men, the quiet was almost deafening.
His previous anger seemingly lost on the wind; Chris had a thousand new questions. "What did she mean earlier, Vin? When she said, 'He who sees'?" The words the woman spoke that morning had been playing repeatedly in Larabee's head.
The tracker considered the question and the best way to answer it. He knew the others didn't put a lot of stock in the ways of the Indians but this seemed the only way he could explain. "Ya know the Indians are... connected tah nature more than... us?" he looked at the blond before continuing. "Most tribes believe there are folks who are connected more others... folks who can see... things," he began but paused purposely. These things were hard enough for him to accept sometimes. "She reckons I'm one of 'em."
The thoughts racing through the gunslinger's head were as confused as he was. "And the tattoos?"
"His is a gray wolf... hers is red."
Chris frowned. "The horse?" He hadn't believed it possible to be even more confused than before.
"She needs his wind to cool her fire and guide her on her quest."
Larabee looked intently at his younger friend. The references were clearly Indian in origin and made little sense to him. Perhaps he could move the tracker forward. "What's she here for, Vin?" he questioned before bowing his head. Larabee wasn't sure if he really wanted an answer. He wasn't even sure he would understand what his friend might say.
"Well... near as I can remember... she's probably here to guide us..." Tanner looked at this leader. "It's her reason... her purpose."
Chris considered the sharpshooter for a minute. He could read a mixture of curiosity and worry written all over the man's face. "She's no Indian, Vin... How'd she get that mark?"
"Reckon Josiah's right when he says she's here to protect us. Don't quite see how we's goin' on a journey though." The sharpshooter looked about town at nothing in particular. He knew he was probably making little sense to the gunslinger.
"You ain't no Indian either!" was the blond's next remark. He was still trying to focus on why Vin understood all this stuff.
There was a slight ring of humor in the sharpshooter's voice. "If'n ya got the gift, don't matter none where ya come from!" He knew this woman would have grown up around the natives and learned their ways, as he had done. The tribes, in turn, would have only bestowed the symbol upon one who deserved the honor.
Tanner was beginning to remember different parts of the stories he had heard more than a dozen years ago. It all seemed to make perfect sense. The woman obviously shared a oneness with the spirits. There would have to be some reason why she needed their guidance. Her calm innocence and trust would give her easier access to those she needed to teach and each lesson would impart knowledge and wisdom only to the intended recipient. The red wolf would guide many men on many types of journeys.
"How's she gonna protect us?" Larabee continued. "... And who's going on a journey?"
His friend considered the reply carefully. Didn't matter what Vin said, his leader wasn't going be happy with the answer. He took a deep breath and spoke as calmly as he could. "Reckon she only saw four of us... when she first opened her eyes!"
Evening had come to Four Corners and four of The Seven had gathered at their usual table.
"What'd you mean just them four?" Nathan asked of JD.
"I'm just tellin' ya what Buck told me," he related.
"It really isn't clear why you gentlemen are so concerned about this issue," Standish put into the conversation. "It's not as though you were gazed upon by this mysterious young lady."
"Don't know as I'd call her a lady," Buck mused as he joined them. "Reckon she could use a lesson or two."
JD mused the thought. "Sounds like she's here to teach you a thing or two!"
Wilmington wasn't at all comfortable with the idea of this 'red wolf' guiding him through some 'journey'. "I ain't lettin' her get near me," Buck said confidently.
"While I do believe this would be a first for you, Mr. Wilmington," the southerner said smugly, "I am inclined to agree with you whole heartily."
None of the men noticed the stranger as she made her way into the saloon and sat across the room.
Larabee had followed close behind and joined the others at their table. "Boys," he nodded as he sat.
"Who's lookin' after the woman?" Nathan asked.
Chris bowed his head then looked over his shoulder. "Seems she's doing the watching right now." The blond indicated her attentive gaze to his fellow peacekeepers.
The four other men followed his gaze and then looked at each other in surprise.
Buck braved another look then quickly averted his eyes and took a sip of his beer. "Don't look now..." he snickered.
The woman got up and moved to the poker game that was going on in the saloon. She pulled some money from her pocket as she sat at an empty chair. The men at the table seemed to object but held their comments as they saw her money. If this foolish woman were apt to play a little card game or two, they'd be more than happy to take her money. No woman could play cards!
Buck glanced at Ezra. "Guess she's calling you out first," he mused again.
The gambler did not take Wilmington's tone lightly and tried to ignore the comment. He watched intently though as the dealer shuffled the cards. The southerner's keen eye observed little skill in any of the hands. Bets were laid and draws were made.
The conversation continued for some time at his own table but Standish paid no attention. His eyes were glued to the poker game and he didn't miss the fact that the woman succeeded in losing fifteen dollars in three hands.
Somewhere in the course of the game, Vin had joined them. The other men all seemed to sense that the tracker was more like himself than he had been in days. He sipped on his whiskey and watched the gambler as he practically cried over the money that the other men had succeeded in taking from the stranger.
Standish looked at the sharpshooter and licked his lips. "Are you quite certain this 'woman' is not here to cause us bodily injury, Mr. Tanner," the question was laced with cynicism.
"She's a fire waitin' tah happen, Ezra!" Vin smirked. "Can't promise nothin'."
The gambler huffed loudly. "How very reassuring!" His eyes were still fixed on the poker game of which he desperately wanted to be a part.
"Come along now, Billy," Mary urged her son towards the waiting stage. There was no real hurry though. Their transportation wasn't due to leave for fifteen minutes.
The younger Travis was searching the town behind him as he reluctantly followed his mother. "Where's Chris?"
"I'm sure he'll be along shortly, son," Josiah answered. He walked beside the newspaperwoman carrying two of her bags.
"Thank you for your help, Mr. Sanchez," Mary spoke as she struggled with the bag she was carrying. Chris had been right when he told her that she'd packed too much.
"There he is!" Billy shouted. Dropping his bag, the boy ran down the street and leapt into the gunslinger's arms.
Mary turned to look after her son and smiled at the way Larabee cradled the child lovingly. The curl of her lip slowly waned as she found something else to watch instead. Down the street, the newspaperwoman could see Vin sitting outside the hotel. The young woman, he had apparently accosted yesterday, sat beside him. Neither appeared to be talking.
Chris approached with Billy in his arms. As they paused briefly to pick up Billy's bag, Larabee spotted a familiar suspicious glint in Mary's eyes. He followed her gaze and took a deep breath. The blond's mind raced as he dug for answers to the questions he knew were coming soon.
It didn't take long. "Billy... take your bag and go with Mr. Sanchez," Mrs. Travis directed.
The young boy looked intently at the gunslinger.
Smiling at the boy, Chris motioned toward the preacher, "Go on, Billy." He knew that Mary's inquiring nature had gotten the best of her yet again. Larabee also knew that she wasn't going to leave quietly unless she was sure everything was all right.
Mrs. Travis folded her arms and narrowed her eyes. "You told me you suspected the stranger was carrying a knife yesterday," she started out. "If she's a criminal how come Vin is being so nice to her today."
The leader was thinking on his feet. This would have to be good. "Tanner's still making his apologies, Mary... you know how bad he feels if he makes a mistake. None of us knew she was a woman until..." The gunslinger paused and looked away.
The newspaperwoman remembered what she had witnessed. She decided to give the man a second. She too, looked away
Chris took a deep breath and continued. "You know Vin's shy around women anyway. He just feels real bad is all."
Mary knew that at least that part of Larabee's statement was true. The sharpshooter wasn't comfortable around most women. And, if yesterday's search had been a mistake, then he would most certainly feel bad about it. Treating a woman, the way he had would make him feel even worse. "Then she's not a criminal?"
Chris shrugged. "Not as far as we can tell," he answered her quickly. "She's not been forth coming about why she's the way she is... but seems like she'll be gone by tomorrow. We'll just let her ride on her way."
Mrs. Travis looked intently at the gunslinger. It was so hard sometimes, for her to figure out if he was telling the truth, or not. She smiled at him, truly only believing part of what he had said. The widow looked one more time towards Tanner. She bowed her head slightly before nodding. She really didn't have much choice other than to believe what Chris was telling her. Turning, she continued her trek to join Josiah.
Larabee breathed a sigh of relief before picking up her bag and following, shaking his head all the while. He'd convinced her for now. It would be enough to see her safely on her way.
The ladies' man watched the coach roll East out of town. He saw his oldest friend wave goodbye to Billy Travis and his mother. And, as the stage disappeared in the distance, Buck shook his head and wandered over to the livery. It was his turn to make the rounds of the outlying ranches. Not expecting any trouble, he'd allowed JD he could go fishing with Casey. Today he'd be making the circuit himself. Yosemite had his horse already to go and the rogue thanked him, mounted up and rode out of town.
From above the livery, Nathan too, had watched the stage leave from the other end of town. He waved Buck off as he rode out and then looked down the street to see who else was around. Watching Chris wander back to the restaurant porch, the healer smiled and raised his chin in the air. Sun's warm this mornin'!
Ezra was probably still in bed and Jackson had heard that JD was heading out to fetch Casey Wells. He'd seen Josiah go into the church just a few minutes earlier. After listening to the man complaining over breakfast, the healer guessed that Sanchez would be busy fixing that front pew by now.
Nathan could see Tanner sitting alone, balancing his chair against the hotel wall and he grinned. The tracker seemed to be settled somewhat and that made them all relax. Taking one last breath of fresh air, Jackson headed inside his clinic.
A couple of hours later, Wilmington had done his required rounds and was about two miles out of town when he heard a horse neigh behind him. Buck stopped his own mount while readying his gun hand. He spun around to face the person who had somehow managed to ride up on him.
The stranger smiled, almost shyly and then slowly guided her grey over to the big oak that sprang up just beyond the trail.
The tall rogue couldn't quite decide what to do as he watched after her. She drew her horse to a stop and dismounted. Wilmington noted that she had no saddle today either. He watched again, as the woman seemed to whisper something to the horse. The big grey eyed her as she settled to the ground then snorted loudly before galloping off.
The woman sat quietly leaning against the tree with her eyes closed.
The ladies' man couldn't resist the scene. She wasn't a typical woman for sure. Not a lot about her made any sense to him. He guided his own horse over to the tree and looked at the woman again. Yep, she ain't typical... but there's somethin'. Wilmington dismounted and ground tied his horse a short distance from the oak. He joined the stranger in the shade of the tree and simply stood and stared for several minutes. "You gonna be around long?" he finally tried to strike up a conversation.
There was no reply and he shuffled his feet slightly. "Sure is a beautiful horse you got there... Miss!" he tried again.
She didn't move or open her eyes but a whisper escaped the woman's lips. "Emo'onahe. Vovestomosanehe."
Buck looked at the stranger curiously. It was clear that she'd been around some Indians but for some reason, he hadn't expected her to speak their language. "I don't speak that stuff!" he spoke almost gruffly and turned away from her.
There was a long silence before the soft voice spoke again. "He is handsome," she translated. "My teacher!"
Wilmington smiled and glanced back at the lady.
"He is not mine though... one can not own the wind," she continued quietly. "He allows my own journey when he feels I am in need of his guidance."
The rogue thought on what the woman had said. He pursed his lips quite sure he didn't understand a word. Settling down beside her casually, the man puzzled her words. "Ride the wind?"
The young woman showed no sign of objecting to his advances. They sat silently for a moment before she continued. "His lesson is well heeded... He graces me with his presence when he sees fit."
Suddenly Buck felt like he was intruding. He moved to stand when she laid her hand on his knee.
"The water of his soul cools the fire in mine."
Wilmington's eyes followed the woman's hand as she returned it the earth. He couldn't help but hear the depth of her soft whispers... he was vaguely aware of her meaning. He had a fire of his own too. His fiery temper sometimes got the best of him... but that was just his way.
The rogue studied the woman's face as her eyes opened and she looked at him. For the first time, he was able to see into them clearly and he sat mesmerized by her stare. Buck had considered the woman to be average looking at first glance but it was now clear to him that her true beauty was inside.
"Netonesevehe?" she asked quietly. Suddenly remembering that this man could not understand the language, she dipped her head slightly. "What is your name?" she translated her question before looking at him again.
His eyes sparkled and a customary coy smile breached the man's handsome face. "Buck Wilmington, Darlin'," he pushed the hat back on his head. "But you can just call me Buck."
The woman cocked her head and the slightest hint of a smile graced her lips. "Tohe'kesaeve'ho'e!" she whispered softly.
The ladies' man had no idea what she had just said but he liked the way it sounded.
Glancing up from his book, a dumbfounded Nathan Jackson spied Wilmington riding towards them. "I just don't believe it!" he called to the tracker. "Look at that man, Vin... ain't he got no shame?"
Tanner looked up from his whittling and smiled. She works fast! Putting his knife away, he got to his feet and leaned against the support beam. Without any hesitation, the tracker knew that the woman who rode beside Buck had begun her work. He was still plagued with her thoughts... all the time... yet; he hadn't managed to make much sense of them. But, right now, it wasn't his mind that was conveying this feeling... it was his heart.
The ladies' man and the stranger brought their horses to a stop in front of the jail.
"Lovely afternoon ain't it, boys?" Buck glowed. He dismounted and tied his horse at the hitching post. He turned back to the woman and motioned her to follow him.
She smiled for him but shook her head. With a quick movement she and her mount reversed their steps and were gone.
The ladies' man grinned from ear to ear as he watched her leave. "Don't reckon I understood most of what she said but it sure was pretty."
Vin stepped closer. "She spoke to you," he questioned curiously. Tanner considered this a significant step. Whatever was gonna happen would probably happen soon.
Jackson set down his book but continued to eye the departing woman. He stood and moved closer to his fellow peacekeepers.
"She speaks one of them Indian languages but her English is real poetic." Wilmington spoke as she disappeared out of sight.
The tracker tilted his head slightly. "Do ya recollect anythin' she said?" he asked seriously. He thought perhaps that he might know the dialect.
Buck rubbed his chin. "Well... she said lots a things. She spoke lots in riddles. It ain't easy tah follow."
"Do ya remember anythin' special?" Vin questioned again. "Anything in Indian?"
"No, not really," the ladies' man replied. It was easy to tell when he was thinking by the hand scratching the back of his neck. "Oh, Wait... what does... Tohe'kesaeve'ho'e... mean?" He did his best to remember the word she had used and how she spoke it.
The tracker considered the mispronounced word carefully. He tried to run it through his mind, lending his knowledgeable ear to Wilmington's attempt to speak a native tongue.
"What was you doin' with her, Buck?" Nathan questioned. He was still uneasy about the stranger. "We don't really understand why she's here. You could 'a got yer self killed or somethin'."
Buck grinned again musing the healer's words. "The 'or somethin' sounds pretty good 'bout now."
"Cowboy!" the sharpshooter exclaimed loudly. He looked at the ladies' man and cocked his head. "Reckon she called ya, cowboy."
The rogue looked slightly confused at first, but then he remembered how she'd said it. A satisfied smirk curled his lip as he looked as his two companions.
Trying hard to ignore Wilmington, the healer frowned. "You recognize the language, Vin?"
Looking down the street in the direction the woman had disappeared; Tanner turned back at Nathan and nodded. "Reckon it's probably Cheyenne." His voice grew quiet. "And they take all their stories real serious like!"
The next morning the leader of The Seven sat in front of the restaurant trying to lose himself in a book. He'd spent another uneventful night in Four Corners and this whole business with the strange woman was driving him to distraction. He just didn't like not knowing what was going on in his own town. He didn't like the woman's ways or this mysterious wolf story that Vin seemed to believe in so much. He just didn't like any of it...
The stranger had been watching him closely for about an hour now. She was well aware that not all of his concentration was on the page in front of him. A part of his consciousness saw everything that went on about the little community. He was also very aware of her interest in him. This man only trusted a few people and she considered that estimate, generous. He would be the hardest to guide on his journey. He would not be led willingly. He might take more than I have to give...
Closing her eyes, the woman made the decision to approach the man in black. If she didn't try to reason with him now, it might be too late when it counted the most. With her usual slow movements, she walked toward the gunslinger. She mounted the step and quietly slid into the chair next to his. Closing her eyes, she waited.
Five minutes passed slowly and the tension between the two grew. Larabee was well aware of the stranger across the table from him. He thought perhaps, if he ignored her... then she might go away.
But, she did not leave. More time ticked slowly by and still she had not moved.
Slowly it became clear to Chris how Tanner felt in her presence. "Something I can do for you?" he finally asked, still not looking up from his book.
The man's tone was none too pleasant but the woman refused to back down from him. Another moment past before she responded. "I am only here to help." Her eyes were still closed. "It would be wise if you welcomed my assistance in your test... and on your journey."
Larabee slammed his book shut and turned to look at her. How dare she presume to tell him what he should do!
Her face was as calm as her voice as she opened her eyes to meet his gaze.
"You got something tah say, then say it. If not, get the hell out 'a here."
Everything about his demeanor would be unnerving to most but the young woman simply looked at him. She could tell him little more than she already had. But, had he understood, or even heard, her message? Yes, she thought, this one may take more than I have to give!
Chris continued to stare at the woman coldly.
"I shall leave you here and now," she paused. "But I will be near when it happens... and we will make the journey when it is necessary." With that statement she gained her feet and slowly moved off down the street.
Chris growled and fumbled with the book for a few minutes before he stood up. He was pissed off and he really couldn't get a fix on why. He was upset with the woman for not backing down. He was upset with himself for not understanding the message she was trying to get across to him. Think Larabee ... Think! He scolded as he watched the departing form.
Evening in the saloon found the usual crowd gathered. Nathan was retelling his version of how Buck had come back into town with the stranger by his side yesterday.
"So she spoke to ya, real pretty," Dunne mused to the rogue as he came back with their drinks.
"Now, don't you start with me, kid!" Wilmington shot back. He was none too pleased that the lady had chosen the southerner's company over his tonight. He looked at the poker game going on across the saloon. "Why'd ya suppose she's warmin' up to Standish?" he miffed before swallowed some beer.
"I do believe that Ezra was in your company when she first laid her eyes on you," Sanchez answered. "Seems to me, Vin said it was the four of you she was here for."
The ladies' man looked horrified. "Now don't go sayin' it like that, Josiah. Makes it sound like she's an undertaker or somethin'."
"Thought the 'or somethin' sounded just fine to ya, yesterday?" Jackson mused.
"That ain't funny."
The kid laughed. "Hell, I think it's funny."
Quieting his amusement, the healer continued. "Well, we still ain't heard it from her why she's here."
Josiah took a deep breath as his eye drifted over to the lone figure that occupied the corner booth. "I'd say at least one of us has!" the preacher stated all too seriously.
Larabee sat in the semi darkness alone with his thoughts and his whiskey. Sometimes he was just better that way.
The pre-dawn shadows took on their own life as a solitary figure moved quietly down the street. As he neared the tracker's wagon, the man stumbled slightly then found himself face to face with the loaded mare's laig.
Releasing the trigger slowly, the tracker hissed. "Damn it, Chris! You tryin' 'a get yer self shot." Vin looked at his leader and smiled his crooked smile. Cocking his head, he helped the man into his wagon and waved the odor from the air surrounding his friend. "Just exactly how much did ya drink last night, pard?"
Chris held up an almost empty whiskey bottle and grinned. "Think this is the third... maybe fourth!"
"Whew!" the tracker sighed. He took the bottle away from his friend. "What the hell happened?"
Larabee took in the younger man's features. He was glad they had become good friends. Yet, something was bothering him and friendship alone couldn't make him understand. Suddenly the gunslinger's expression changed. "Tell me about the wolves, Vin. Tell me about the journey."
Tanner sat back against the side of the wagon and thought how best to relate the story he had heard long ago. He knew his leader well enough to know that he didn't put much stock in any Indian tales. It was also obvious, that the strange woman's presence in town was putting Chris on edge. Setting the whiskey bottle aside, the younger man took a deep breath. "Many tribes tell stories 'bout the four winds," he began.
Chris seemed to relax into the sharpshooter's voice.
"It's told that the doors to the North, South, East and West Winds are all watched by nature's creatures. Each wind and its creature, have different things that's special about 'em." Vin looked at the blond quickly. "The four winds only meet up when somethin' gonna happen..."
The gunslinger watched as Tanner took a deep breath.
"When the woman first rode in tah town I saw that eagle. He's the East Wind who guided her here. Reckon the horse is the West Wind 'cause it's marked with the gray wolf." The sharpshooter paused again. "She's the key though. She's the South Wind... That's what the red wolf means. This creature tells of fire and change... We both know a red wolf's as rare as buffalo these days. Spirit of the red wolf's harder tah find. The South Wind comes with change... some say a life journey. She'll guide us through it. And, 'cause she's paired with another spirit wolf... the teaming makes the red wolf stronger. She sees, hears and feels things others can't."
There was a moment of silence before Larabee spoke. "The future?" he questioned solemnly. He had been listening intently to what Vin was saying.
Vin cocked his head. "That's what the tribal stories say... The South Wind is some powerful. They say she may see what's tah come but doesn't always understand what she sees. That's why she needs the other winds to guide her... so she can guide those who she's suppose tah help."
It was the blond's turn to breathe deeply. "So that's the journey she's talking about."
The tracker looked at his friend suspiciously. "You tellin' me she spoke to you too?" Tanner couldn't help but be a little annoyed. He'd heard her whispers in his mind but never directly to his ears. He couldn't help but wonder why she hadn't spoken to him yet?
Chris realized why the tracker miffed. Of all The Seven, Vin was the one who understood her reasons. The one that was most like her. "She's talked to ya, pard. Just up here is all," Chris tapped his temple. He realized now that this stranger had communicated with his friend from the very beginning.
The sharpshooter nodded in understanding. He knew she'd been in his mind even before she got to town. He felt like she was looking for information and was using him to get to the others. He didn't like being used and he'd been trying to figure a way of blocking her probing thoughts. But, none of that was going to answer Larabee's questions... "No," he answered his friend's original query. "The journey she's here for ain't begun yet... Don't reckon I know what's gonna set it off."
The man in black rubbed his chin. "She said something about a test."
Tanner considered the premonition carefully. "When?"
Pursed lips supplied the answer. "She didn't say... Don't think she knew."
The tracker turned serious all of a sudden. "Chris listen... there's a whole lot 'a people out there that believe in what I just told ya. I reckon I count myself in with 'em. I seen things I can't 'xplain... If'n she tellin' us there's gonna be some test then we should try 'n be ready."
Flailing hands showed the gunslinger's frustration. "Ready... for what?" He really wasn't expecting a reply.
The tracker gazed off at the waking town. "Reckon we're safe 'til the North Wind joins 'em," he warned. "Just keep yer eyes open for another wolf!"
As the sun rose behind the buildings in front of them, Larabee and Tanner sat quietly considering the information they had just shared.
The next two days past slowly in Four Corners. Nothing out of the ordinary happened and Chris was becoming more restless as the hours ticked slowly by. He again sat in front of the restaurant, still trying to read the same book he'd had three days ago. He was apprehensive about this whole situation. Even if he could get used to the young woman walking slowly about the town, he couldn't accept that she was always listening for something. It made him nervous and angry. There was no real reason why having another set of eyes on things could do any harm but he hated knowing that she was expecting something... And, he hated the feeling he got when she was looking at him.
Thankfully, she wasn't doing that right now.
Out front of the jailhouse, John Dunne balanced a chair on its back legs while he too, tried to read. The kid, however, was reading one of those dime store novels the others always bugged him about.
The preacher couldn't help but smile as he came of out their office. "Enjoying the afternoon sun, JD?" he questioned happily.
JD glanced over his shoulder while covertly sliding the dime novel into his pocket. He noticed Sanchez was polishing his Schofield revolver with an old rag. "Did ya get it good and clean like Vin said?"
Josiah smiled broadly. "Inside and out." He finished up and put the weapon back in its holster. Checking the draw, he nodded. "As smooth as the day it was made. Kind of like the day a baby comes into the world," the preacher took a deep breath. "The lord is always smiling on days like those."
The kid frowned thoughtfully. "You think God had anything to do with sending that girl tah help us, Josiah?" he was serious with his question. Dunne had listened carefully when Vin had related the Indian legend and the Red Wolf. Tanner had told them of some test he was sure was coming and how four of them were somehow going to need the woman's help.
Placing the old rag on the back of the kid's chair, Sanchez raised an eyebrow. "The lord works in mysterious ways!" he said cheerfully. It was a standard line for the preacher but it seemed to work for everything. For his part, Josiah believed it was true. "The people of the mountains and the plains are his children, too."
Dunne frowned again. "But she's a white woman."
Sanchez cocked his head. " ... Indeed she is, boy... Funny thing about people though... they're all the same on the inside."
The kid couldn't help but smile. "How'd you reckon she ended up with them Cheyenne anyway? " he sat up. "And how come she's got such a funny name?" JD was full of questions today.
"Son, I believe there are too many questions that we will never know... or understand the answers to." Josiah turned to leave as he patted his young friend on the shoulder. "One thing's for sure though," he smiled. "We shouldn't question the lord... no matter how he sends the message."
John Dunne watched the preacher as he headed towards the church. Content, for now, with the answers he had been given, the kid glanced about town happily and spotted his leader. Well... at least some of us don't got 'a fight everythin' that comes our way.
That evening found the visitor engaged in a long game of poker with the town's resident gambler.
Standish was tense and everyone could sense it.
"What'd ya reckon he's gonna do if she wins another hand?" Wilmington asked to no one in particular.
JD looked at the others questioningly. "That's can't happen... can it?"
The preacher was warming to the girl nicely. "Don't believe I've seen a stranger creature than that lovely lady!" he smiled.
"Seems tah me our con man's done been conned good," laughed Jackson. "He deserves to be beat by the girl. He's taken her money three nights runnin'. Only fair she gets some back."
"Yeah..." Vin straightened in his chair. "She's a quick study," he had plenty of time to study her too. "She spends most 'a her time watchin' us. Reckon by now she's got all a' us pegged."
Glancing at the poker game, the tracker smiled at the woman. She'd grown on him, now that he was slowly learning how to fend off her exploration of his thoughts. He still wished she would speak to him though. Just like the rest of them, Tanner had a million things he wanted to ask her. But, having shared minds with the woman, his questions were just a little more intimate.
"Anybody else seen her writing somethin'?" Dunne asked as he swallowed some more beer.
The healer nodded. "Not just scribblin,' that for sure. This mornin' I done saw her at the post office mailin' somethin'... Mr. Allen told me it was a whole lot 'a paper tah some fella in New York."
Everyone seemed to take a minute to process the information. It seemed the more they learned, the more they had questions.
JD, in particular, always had another query. "What'd ya suppose that's all about?"
"One can only presume an answer, son. We'll probably never know the true reason." The preacher was curious himself but resigned to the fact that some questions never received a good answer.
A peaceful morning in Four Corners was shattered as six shots rang out through the small community.
The townsfolk cleared the street as their seven protectors appeared at random. Each man looked around to gauge his position in reference to the others and to find the source of the shots.
Another six shots were heard and The Seven men pinpointed the source over towards the boarding house.
As they headed cautiously to the east side of town, an anxious looking Will Anderson came running into the street holding up his hands. "It's alright, Mr. Larabee," he called out. "It's just the woman. She said she needed to do some practicing with them fancy pistols of hers." The young man looked nervously at the gunslinger. "I told 'er she'd best check with you first," he added quickly.
As the peacekeepers walked down the alley into the field, they found exactly what Anderson had been trying to describe. Having set up some old cans and pieces of wood, the stranger had been firing at them from about fifty feet. Both her weapons were drawn as she fired again at the targets and each fell in turn with her shots.
So intent were The Seven on her display, that none of the others noticed Larabee. The gunslinger's blood was beginning to boil.
"Hell, I can do that," the kid exclaimed loudly. When it came to two-handed shooting, Dunne was indeed, the best of The Seven.
Having found the source of the gunfire, most of the peacekeepers had relaxed by now and were putting away their weapons.
Tanner closed his eyes briefly and smiled as he opened them. "Bet ya can't do it with yer eyes closed!" he mused.
The kid looked at the tracker with a disbelieving look on his face. The stare questioned No Way!
The sharpshooter grinned and cocked his head in reply.
Still none of the others had noticed the angry glare of their leader. "What the hell do ya think your doing?" Larabee demanded as he grabbed the woman roughly by one arm and beckoned her attention.
The stranger was her normal calm self as she placed her peacemakers' back into their holsters.
Larabee tone was violent. "Did you hear me?"
"Let her be, Chris," Vin suggested, almost defensively.
"No..." Chris warned Tanner away. "It's about time we got some answers." He looked at the woman again. "Who the hell are you?"
Her reply was calm and quiet. "You have known my name since the day I arrived."
The healer remembered how he had mispronounced her name. Not that any of them had used it much. "Athena?" he reminded them.
"That ain't no Indian name and it ain't what I meant." Their leader's focus was still on the girl and his tone was becoming increasingly menacing.
"It is the name given to me by she that gave me life... She was not of the tribe." Having been turned by the blond's rough handling, the woman's gaze drifted back to the meadow. "The tribe took me in when I was young. They called me ma'heono' and gave me the ema'o ho'neche."
Five pairs of eyes settled on the tracker.
Vin was listening to her soft voice for only the second time and a gentle smile spread across his face. She still wasn't speaking to him, but he enjoyed listening to her words. He translated the language for the others but only he understood her tone. "They called her 'the spirit 'and marked her with the 'red wolf'."
Athena was not surprised to hear her words translated. She had been inside this mind and was familiar with his soul. Yet, somehow Tanner still managed to hide his secret from her and he was now learning how to send her thoughts away. But, all these thoughts would have to wait. She was being questioned and she desperately needed to gain control of the situation. "The spirits guide my way now," she smiled softly. "They are my companions."
Larabee still had hold of the woman's arm and he pulled her around to face him completely this time. "What are we waiting for?" he growled. He studied her eyes but found no fear in them. Not receiving the expected reaction, the gunslinger grew even more irate. How could he truly judge someone he couldn't intimidate?
Athena lowered her head. "I do not know how the change will come... I only know that I must be here when it does. I must guide the four who will make their journey."
Chris had his reasons for being angry. This stranger had come into his town eight days ago, telling a story he didn't, or couldn't believe. How could he possibly play a part in that fairy tale? By nature, he was suspicious of anyone he couldn't get a feel for. It was the only way he had stayed alive this long. This woman might have represented the worst of the 'bad element', had it not been for Tanner's belief in her. Even when he couldn't see her, he sensed she was looking at him. Sometimes it made his skin crawl. The blond grabbed the woman by both arms and shook her violently. If she'd been a man, he surely would have knocked her down. "You can't just walk in here..."
"Let her go, brother!" the preacher commanded forcefully. He could see the anger in his leader as he stepped forward. Josiah knew that they all shared his frustration but most of them had a lot more patience than the man in black. Sanchez tried to calm the situation before it got worse. "She's here to help, Chris," he said gently. "Seems she don't know why, or when, or how... but we should take comfort in knowing that she's here." The big man slowly removed his leader's hands from the young woman's arms. "It ain't easy waiting on one's future... but it would be best to remember we're not traveling the road alone."
Larabee met the older man's eyes gruffly before looking around at his men. His customary glare was evident but so was his anger. The gunslinger's desire to be in control had long ago grown beyond being just a simple need. Control gave him the edge... it had kept him alive. It had become an essential component in his daily life, no less important that breathing... and right now, Chris couldn't.
The remainder of The Seven all understood the meaning behind the look. They all watched in silence, as the gunslinger turned angrily and marched back into town.
The woman had appeared undaunted by Larabee's stare but inside she was scared. Afraid, not only of the man, but of the anger he held inside. His touch had revealed something that she had not seen before. She now knew that she would not be able to break through the blockade he had in his mind. She would have to face his rage unprepared ... and alone.
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