June 5, 1899

Tombstone.

This morning I walked over to the hotel and heard Muriel telling the Angel and Bria that Dancing Cloud cut fingers off little children. Muriel said that it was time to take back the fort and avenge Lot’s shooting today. As Bria hid behind me, I assured her that it was okay and Muriel was just trying to scare her. I decided to take the children for a walk down the street and gave the two women a disapproving look for scaring them. 

We went over to the market stand and talked about how they didn’t trust Muriel now. I met a man with a Spanish accent and told him that Bria and Angel were my little helpers for the morning. Angel said that she’d told Muriel that if she was ever mean to Twig, that she would answer to her daddy. I told her to tell Josh about the conversation and she promised she would. She said that Muriel told her that if she found a bone later, it would be one of hers. She asked if Dancing Cloud would ever hurt them and I told her that she wouldn’t. I told them I’d be at the courthouse and went to find Ansar. 

“Can we talk inside?” I asked him. 

“Sure, what’s this about?” he asked and I followed him into the courthouse. 

“Been a somewhat disturbing morning,” I told him. 

“Oh?” 

“Was standing outside with Muriel and Dancing Cloud and Bria and Angel. Muriel went on and on about how Dancing Cloud would harm the kids and basically threatened them.” 

“Oh… hmm….” he nodded, listening. 

“Muriel said if she found another bone later, it would be Angel’s. She said that to Angel after me and Bria walked down the street to get away from the two women. I didn’t like the sound of it so I wanted to come to you for advice.” 

“Wait… hold on. Dancing Cloud said Muriel said if she found another bone later, it would be Angel’s? How would she know or another bone? Sorry, I am a bit lost.” 

“No... Muriel said that about the bone. After Bria and I had left. She was scaring them that DC would do something to hurt them. Then Angel asked if Muriel would ever hurt them and she looked pretty scared. I just wanted to give you the heads up about it because it don’t sound good.” 

“So Muriel the one making the threats? So where’d Dancing Cloud fit all that?” 

“If she’s not threatening for herself she’s sayin’ that DC will do these things to them.” 

“So both Muriel and dancing cloud where making threats to kids?” 

“DC said she wouldn’t hurt the children but the girls seemed pretty shaken up about it.” 

“And DC?” 

“I think they’re more afraid of Muriel.” 

“How many people were threatening them?” 

“Muriel was saying that DC would hurt them, but DC denied the promises and the girls asked me if Muriel would really hurt them. It was just Bria and Angel there, Twig wasn’t anywhere to be seen but they mentioned that Muriel doesn’t like Apache.” 

“Who does?” 

“Muriel said she’d seen DC cut fingers off little children but I think she was just trying to get a rise out of them. I hope that’s all it was..” 

“Sound like stories ya tell ya kid to behave.” 

“But the girls were gonna tell their father Josh about it and I just wanted to give you the heads up. Cause I don’t like women threatening children, even if it is in jest.” 

“Well no but, sound like she was scaring them away from an Apache?” 

“But Tye’s told me over and over again that DC ain’t like the other Apache.” 

“That’s a good thing, if so. Can’t be trusted too much,” Ansar said. “Why are jailer’s here under twenty-four hour watch when on duty. So he don’t steal nothing.” 

“I know. I’ll keep an eye over the girls though... I don’t like the thought of anything happening to them.” 

“Red ain’t neither. Don’t mean everyone going to like them. Know what I mean?” 

“I know, very well. I’ve had my own past with the Apache,” I nodded. “Not these ones necessarily... but I know what they’re like. Thanks for coming to town and listening, Ansar. I feel better knowing that you know.” 

“Yeah, I would keep watch out all the same. But stories are stories.” 

“All the same most stories are based on some semblence of truth. Alright we should get back out there.” 

We walked back outside and Angel looked up at me and asked, “Miss Trin, “Do they give tours of the fort?” 

“I don’t know girls. After last night I’m doubting it… I’m not sure what’s going on at the fort... I doubt they do tours anymore but I could find out.” 

“We would just like to see what it is like,” Angel said. 

“Who won the battle yesterday?” Bria asked. 

“I could talk to my friend Chet and maybe he can do that for you some night. He’s a soldier,” I told them. I looked down at the girl and asked, “You know about that?” 

“Yes,” Bria nodded. 

“Oh that would be wonderful!” Angel grinned. 

“The outlaws at the fort,” Bria said. 

“Last I heard Mr Kris got shot in the back dead,” Kris said. 

“Still there.” 

“To be honest I’m not sure about the result of the battle... It didn’t look good when I went back to the office though,” I said. 

“They must have had fun with that,” Angel said. 

“Oh I’m sure they had fun with the battle... Glad someone did,” I muttered. 

We started to talk about Paige being their new mom and talked about Josh being their uncle, not their father, though they called them mom and dad. Angel said that her parents had been killed and they told me that they came into town that morning in their balloon. 

“Dancing Cloud saw us land,” Angel said. “And I went up to her to say good morning. We were talking when Miss Muriel interrupted us.” 

We talked about the balloon races and horses and then went for a ride around town. 

A few hours later, I went back to the hotel and saw Paige, Josh and Bria sitting out front. We talked about what had happened that morning with Muriel and Dancing Cloud, and they thanked me for keeping the girls safe and occupied. I went to do the rounds and leaned back against the post to watch people going about their day as I talked with Richie and the others who were standing around. 

A priest walked down the street and started to get in an argument with an old man named Timmy. Timmy started to swear at the priest but he kept calm, continuing to tell the man to calm down. I stood off the post, ready if I was needed, and watched the old man, who was clearly drunk, continue to argue with the priest and threaten him. Pet and Chu introduced themselves and Sky moved out of the way from the two men, since Timmy had calmed down. Timmy and Chu shook hands and then all of a sudden Timmy started to throw a punch at Chu. 

Chu got hit and said, “Do you feel better, Timmy?” 

“Now ya done gone and done it, Timmy,” Skyla shook her head. 

“Timmy, go sit down and cool off,” I ordered. 

“Yeah sher, I’ll sit down,” Timmy slurred. 

“I will not press any charges to this man sheriff,” Chu said. 

“He’s lucky I’m drunk.,” Timmy said and went to sit down. 

“Alright, it’s rest time fer Timmy, I do believe,” Sky looked at his waist. “You don’t haveta. I saw it, and he’s a time out. Guns please, Timmy,” Sky said to the man as she followed him and Timmy took his guns off. 

“Sheriff, no,” Chu shook his head. “Sheriff, please.” 

“I am doing my job, Chu. Thank you,” Sky smiled. “Guns please, Timmy.” 

“Let him go,” Chu requested as Timmy handed his guns to Skyla. 

“Ah, I could use a nap,” Timmy said. 

“Come on, Timmy. I got a spot fer ya to rest,” Skyla said. 

“Sheriff, it was my fault,” Chu insisted. 

“You’re not the one who is drunk,” I looked at Chu. 

“He might be visiting a lot, Sky,” Pet winked. 

“Go lay down fer a bit and sleep it off,” Sky said as she helped Timmy into the sheriff’s office. “I’ll be back in a few moments ta check on ya.” 

“Howdy Trin,” Cole greeted me. 

“Hey Cole. How’s it goin?” 

“I got me accepted to the Wild Bunch last night!” Cole grinned. 

“And you’re proud of it?” I looked at him. “Not only that, but you’re announcing it to a deputy?” 

“Sure am! Lot himself done the honors!” 

“I’ll bet he did,” I muttered. 

“Brings me a warm curly feel’n all up and down my body!” 

“Trin, give him about thirty minutes,” Sky instructed to me. “He’s not in a cell. Let him sleep fer a bit. Just sleeping on a cot.” 

“Sure,” I nodded to her as Cole told Muriel he got shot last night. 

“You and your pal Mac,” Muriel said. 

“Mac was here?” I blinked and they nodded. “Geez. Haven’t seen Mac since last month.” 

They continued to talk about the battle at the fort and Muriel said she had the whole fort against her. After a while I heard movement inside and went into the office. “Morning Timmy,” I chuckled at him. 

“Hey miss.” 

“Feelin’ better?” I chuckled. 

“Well, other than th’ headache, yeah.” 

“Think you’re ready to be better behaved now? No more hittin’ priests?” 

“I’ll do me best miss,” I chuckled. 

“Alright then,” I went over to unlock the safe, getting out the man’s guns. 

“If only there was a woman in me life that could change me ways.” 

“Honey you couldn’t handle me,” I chuckled and handed the guns back to him. 

“Well then… I’ll be seein’ ye.” 

“You wanna tell me why you were drunk?” I asked. 

“Why I got drunk?” 

“Mmhmm.” 

“Let’s see. Me pa was an arse, me ma was a whore, me long lost brother recently died, and most importantly, I’m Irish.” 

“Of course ya are,” I chuckled. “Shall we head back out there?” 

“Sure, let’s go,” he said and I led the way outside. 

Timmy took a seat in front of the sheriff’s office and I heard Cole talking to Sky about getting accepted into the Wild Bunch gang. Sky insisted that he had anger problems but he yelled in response and I chuckled at the two of them. I told Skyla that Timmy was good to go and the banter continued around us as I leaned against the pole and listened. Cole mentioned that everyone picked on him and hurt Del one night going on about how Cole slept around. 

After a while I looked at Pet and said, “Startin to think I should get a place other than the hotel... Sounds like you’re gonna be busy. I’ve had my room long enough. Could just sleep in the office here. Besides... What do I need a double bed for?” 

“Trin… Hold that thought. I have something to show ya.” 

“I sleep in the office if I’m too tired to make it home,” Sky said. 

“Ya do Pet? Here in Tombstone?” I asked hopefully. 

“Iffn you wanna walk, it’s on the way. On the border.”

“Alright, I can stay on duty then.” 

“I’ll call for ya,” she said and she and Chu headed off. 

“Hey Sky.. You know I’ve been in town officially a month now?” I smiled at Sky. 

“Yup I do, and look at ya!” 

“Mmhmm. Right where you said I should be from day one.” 

“I know law folks when I see em,” Sky smiled. 

“I’ll let you say ‘I told you so’ now,” I winked at her. 

“I don’t say that,” Sky laughed. 

“But I’m giving you permission,” I chuckled. “Sure is quiet around here without Tye, huh? Oops, sorry. Forget I said anything,” I winked. 

“And don’t forget I like my quiet times. Few, far and in between they are,” Sky said. 

“Why do you think I work the day shift?” I grinned. 

“I wonder whenever I come to town, even if I’m not on duty,” she laughed. 

“Did you say it’s quiet time?” Sirus asked. 

“Um… yea. Quiet time,” Sky blinked and shook her head. 

We continued to talk and I walked over to Kate’s. I saw a man nearby, nudging him to see if he was awake. Vic asked me if this was Tom and I told her that it wasn’t and that I hadn’t seen him yet. I still didn’t believe it was true and looked down as the man nudged me back. 

“How much have you had, Sir?” I asked the man. 

“I usually lose count before I start drinking,” he said. 

“Sir, are you stayin’ anywhere in town?” 

“Miss Trin, ya aint’ going to be harassing the fella are you?” Ali asked me. 

“Nope I’m gonna take him back to sleep off the alcohol so he doesn’t do any harm to anyone else,” I said. 

“I’m staying in that fort!” he pointed east. 

“Of course you are,” I muttered. “Think you’ve had enough whiskey today, hmm?” 

“No I’m not done drinking!” he finished his whiskey and slammed the bottle on the floor. 

“He harm someone today?” Ali asked as the man stumbled up and burped really loudly. 

“Guess not,” I jumped at he smash of the bottle on the ground. “Just making sure he don’t.” 

The man jumped behind the counter and grabbed two bottles of whiskey and carried them out. He popped the top off one and lay down to drink it. “You want to hear the story about the horse?” 

“Sure sir, Tell us a story,” I nodded. 

He stuttered his words and hiccuped a bit as he said, “There once was a horse. The horse was brown. The end,” he laughed. 

“That was quite the story. Little anticlimactic,” I chuckled. 

“Encore! Encore!” Ali clapped. 

“There once was a man who layed in my street and got trampled on cause he wouldn’t get his own sorry ass up the end…” Sky smirked. “I like mine better.” 

“Yup, I like that one better too,” I chuckled. I looked over to ask Vic if she was okay since she was being quiet and she insisted she was fine. 

“Okay okay. There once was a man who only had one shoe. He threw it at the sheriff and knocked her wig off. She ran and never came back,” the man laughed harder and we all laughed. 

“Sky I’m gonna go look at a house with Pet,” I told her then. 

“Okay Trin,” Sky shook her head. “There once was a man who tried to hit the sheriff with a shoe except he was so drunk he hit his face instead,” she told the drunken man. 

Bisbee. 

I went to look at houses with Pet and she showed me a small one that would work well. She said she’d put in a good word with Mayor Spank and I thanked her for her help. 

“I gotta find someone to tell me what happened yesterday.” 

“Yesterday?” 

“At the fort?” 

“Oh that.. Yeah I don’t know much other than that the outlaws took it over, or were trying to. Law were outnumbered and anyone who did attempt to go got shot.” 

“Is it still under siege?” 

“No idea,” I shrugged and she said goodbye and headed back to town. 

June 4, 1899

Tombstone. 

This morning I woke up and headed to the hotel where I got my morning coffee. I leaned back against the post and watched as Angel, Brie and Twig talked about climbing up the buildings. They said that Jeff had tried it and gotten in trouble, but Twig said that was because he wasn’t Apache. I talked with Peta as Twig jumped off the roofs and continued to play around with the others. 

“Hey Peta can I ask your advice on somethin’?” I asked her.

“Sure thing! I got lotsa good advice!” 

“I think I’m done with men. Gonna focus on my job, and do it well. Not let any man distract me from it.” 

“Hmmm... well ya can do that if ya want. What happened with that fella who lost his memory?” 

“Haven’t seen Tom and it’s been a week since Chet said he’d seen him. I’m done falling for it.” 

“Well... hmm. Men got their purposes.” 

“I just... Flirting with guys for information is all I know... Even though I never take it past that ’cause it’s just for work sake. Farthest I’ll go is a dance… I need a new way to get information.” 

“Well... I reckon that’s so.” 

“And I had a fool-proof plan about one issue but it could get me in over my head.” 

“If I was you, I’d say... find things that make ya happy that ain’t men. That way you can be happy even if ya ain’t got a man. What’s yer fool proof plan?” 

“I don’t want this reputation anymore, Peta... I’ve always been committed when I’m with a guy but... Well lately there ain’t been many. It ain’t so fool proof let’s just say that. And if I continue it, I’ll get into even bigger trouble. I just…” I sighed. “I cried myself to sleep last night ’cause I..” 

“Well... is it worth the trouble?” 

“Not this much trouble. I’m losin’ sleep here, Peta.” 

“Cause why?” 

“Cause I rely so much on men helpin’ me with things and I get nothin’... And I just... I’m sick of it,” I sighed. “Guess I didn’t need advice but just to vent…”

“Well you can vent! I’m ventable! I mean, tell me your troubles. It’s just... so many people say ‘Oh I’m givin’ up on men,’ but really it’s still about men. Like if ya keep tellin’ yerself ‘Don’t think about elephants, don’t think about elephants’ but you’re still thinkin’ about elephants.” 

“Peta, I just feel so…” I leaned back against the post, shaking my head at myself.

“Ya just feel so what?” 

“Pathetic,” I looked down. “Weak…” 

“Why do ya feel pathetic and weak? Cause you rely on men a lot?” 

“Cause every time I think they’re gonna change it always ends the same. You know the definition of insanity, right? Doin the same thing over and over again expecting the same result?” 

“Yep I heard that. You mean the men stay the same? Or what stays the same?”

“I just... I feel so lost, Peta,” I nodded. 

“Lost? Cause you’re always focusin’ on men and don’t know how to focus on something else?” 

“I guess I just thought Tom would really come back, ya know? I waited for him but... I don’t think I can wait anymore. I can’t keep waiting, ya know? I gotta make stuff happen for myself.” 

“Oh yeah, definitely. Ya gotta learn how to be happy even if he don’t come back. I mean, think about--what things in yer life can ya control?” 

“I just didn’t want ya’ll to think that I was that kind of person... Who just would flirt with whoever I saw because I wanted to bed them... It wasn’t about that. I just know how to get guys to talk and…” 

“If ya like flirtin’, there ain’t nothin’ wrong with that. So long as it don’t get ya hurt. Or them hurt.” 

“I just can’t do it anymore... I’m the one that keeps getting burned. Cause people start talkin’ and takin’ it the wrong way.” 

“Oh. They call ya fast, ya mean? Hell, everyone in this damned town is fast. Ain’t nobody in the right position to be throwin’ stones.” 

Abby had walked over then and said, “Miss Trin, I know it may not mean much, but don’t worry about what others think.....most don’t have any room to talk, you wouldn’t believe who I see go in and out of the Brothel.” 

“Guess it don’t matter anymore.. I’m focusin’ on my work, not findin’ a man to distract me from the fact that Tom obivously ain’t comin’ back,” I said. 

“Well, but only if work makes ya satisfied. Elsewise yer still gonna have a big old hole in ya that you’re gonna wanna keep stuffin’ things into,” Peta turned red. “Errr.... that was not meant to be obscene.” 

“I understand,” I nodded. 

“Was only obscene if you meant it that way Miss Peta,” Abby giggled. 

“Ya gotta, uh, plug yer hole.... let me rephrase…” Peta coughed. 

“You’re alright, Peta,” I chuckled. “And thank you for the advice... I just... been not feeling great about myself lately.” 

“Lotsa folks want men ta like ’em ’cause they don’t like themselves. If that’s yer problem, ya gotta find a way to start likin’ yerself.,” Peta said. 

Abby asked Peta if they could talk and I continued to listen to the children talking as I sat in front of the hotel. At one point Muriel looked over at Peta and asked, “Where is your life mate…Tye? He was shot up pretty bad last night.” 

“Is he alright?” I looked between them. 

“He’s my legal-boyfriend. He’s in bed. Handcuffed to the bedpost. So he don’t get up and wander around and pull his stitches out,” Peta said and I chuckled. 

“TJ was really trying to hurt him while he was in the doc’s office,” Muriel nodded. “I suspect Tye will be looking for him.” 

“Ooooh, I’m gonna hurt TJ real bad. What was TJ doin’?” Peta asked. 

“Who’s not looking for TJ?” I muttered. 

“Yup I went in..and I had my guns on...and he knows I’m wayy faster than he is,” Muriel explained. “Told him he was a jack ass...and had better leave.” 

“Oooh, he don’t know what trouble is until he got Peta on his ass,” Peta said. 

“Ha. Good,” Muriel smiled. 

“You tell him, girl!” I chuckled. 

“No one messes with my Tye!” 

“I was up at the gun range trying to teach Cole but that was a lost cause,” Muriel said. 

“Not a good learner huh?” I chuckled. 

“Nooo....he is slow to grasp things.” 

“Cole was tryin’ to spread a rumor that Tye was runnin’ a brothel out of the hotel too!” Peta said. 

“And don’t you start!” Peta pointed at Muriel. 

“No one would ever believe that,” she laughed. “Nooo, I wouldn’t tie Tye to something like that. Yeah, I think it was TJ, a guy named Maverick, and another that shot up Tye.” 

“Oh yeah, Maverick, that fella.” 

“Yup.” 

“Tye said he was arrestin’ Maverick when TJ shot him.” 

“He seems to be the boss.” 

“Frustrating part was they were all at the dance last night actin’ like nothin’ happened,” I commented. 

“Welcome to the law. We also need more docs,” Muriel muttered. 

“Yeah we do. Saw a new deputy last night though... Guy named Karl?” I nodded. 

“Yeah, I got to get used ta folks talkin’ bad about Tye, since he’s law,” Peta said. “But that Nhil guy was just nasty.” 

“Tye is ok...very straight,” Muriel said. “Yes, Nhil.” 

“He’s straight alright,” I said and nodded to Peta. 

“Legally and sexually he’s straight,” Peta coughed. 

“Is what I meant,” I chuckled. 

“Yep. Likes women and paperwork.” 

“Never met a law who liked paperwork,” I laughed. 

“I don’t understand the law around here anyway,” Muriel muttered. 

“Well Muriel, I’m’ tryin to change people’s perspective of the law,” I told her.

“Yeah......here is an example. Starling...a doc...and whose is pregnant..is shot twice in the chest by a fellow named Cid. So she files a complaint…” Muriel started. 

“Ahem! Where was I. Yep. Tye really likes procedures and stuff,” Peta said. “What--when was this?” 

“I have Cid here...right in front of the Sheriff’s office,” Muriel went on. 

“No law around?” I asked. 

“And Skyla says she can’t do anything until Suzi issues a warrant. The other day, Pet. So he walks off…” 

“Hmm… that’s weird,” Peta said. 

“I thought so.” 

“Law’s been all kinda screwed up lately. Least, that’s what Tye says,” Peta said. 

“You were reporting a crime though... She barely even listened to you?” I looked at her. 

“Especially when I had entirely all of what Cid’s side of the story was...and gave it to Starling,” Muriel said. “Who gave it to Skyla.” 

“I reckon they’re tryin’ to foist their paperwork on Tye... which takes away from his Peta time!” Peta said and I shook my head.

“Are you teaching him the proper way to treat a lady?” Muriel laughed. 

“Why would I want him ta know that? How would I know the proper way ta treat a lady?” 

“I’m sorry... I made the mistake..of thinking you would want the most out of a liaison with Tye.” 

“Huh? I ain’t a lady! I’m just a woman. Ladies wear corsets and repress their anger. And our liaisons are fine!” 

“I understand your excitement.” 

We continued to talk and I decided to wander around as I greeted Paige and we talked about men and how I had decided to stop waiting for things to happen that weren’t. We talked for a bit longer and then I headed down the street. 

This afternoon I talked with Richie and he told me that the judge had been shot, but he wasn’t sure who had done it. I met a girl named Kitty and then little Angel walked over to me, looking worried. 

“Miss Trin?” 

“Yes Angel?” I looked down at her. “What’s wrong?” 

“Mr. Punk shot Mr. Kris for no reason. Thought you should know.” 

“When did this happen, hon?” I asked. 

“About fifteen minutes ago.” 

“That’s awful. Is Kris at the clinic?” I asked. 

“Yes he is,” a soldier said nearby. 

“Thank you sir,” I nodded to him. 

“Someone was robbing the bank and the sheriff went in and Mr Punk for no reason gunned down the Marshall,” Angel said. 

“Skyla’s here too?” I asked, shaking my head. 

“But this Indian girl was really brave,” the soldier said. 

“That’s good that you stay brave,” I smiled at Twig. 

“You were so brave to go into the bank and care from Mr Kris,” Angel said. 

“I go to the stream to wash blood off hands and dress,” Angel said. 

“I will ask my commander for accommodation for the little girl,” the soldier said. 

“Accommodation?” I asked. 

“Yes. She was brave.” 

“You were brave, yellow man,” Twig said. “I just try to keep marshal alive.” 

“I am fine, just my side,” Lao said. 

“Twig here lives with the Apaches. The other two have a home,” I said. 

“Well little girl, you saved Kris’ life,” Lao said. “I will ask colonel to give you a reward.” 

“I not like anyone die,” Twig said. 

“I should go over to the clinic and see what I can find out,” I said then and headed to the clinic. 

I walked over to the bed where Kris was being treated by Ya’ii and asked what happened. He was quiet though and I asked Ya’ii, “Can you tell me what happened? Kris doesn’t really... talk to me much.” 

“I not know. I just come to town when I hear shooting,” she said. 

“Okay. Thanks for your help, again,” I nodded. “ 

“You are welcome Miss Trin. Are there more wounded?” 

“I’m not sure to be honest. I just got here myself.” 

“I think I hear more shooting down by the fort,” she said. “I go check.” 

I went out to check but then heard Lao say that the general was down. I heard Punk shouting, “Apache is free to enter Fort.. this Fort is now owned by the DESERT! Who the hell are all of these people little man!” 

“Come out from fort or I fire!” Lao shouted. 

“This is now Fort GHENNA! You may enter without weapons! Anyone who enters with weapons could and WILL be dealt with. We will have our utopia here!” 

“Someone help me up please!” Vic shouted then and I wondered where she was. 

“We do not know who we can trust yet. The law is arming a posse!” Punk shouted and laughed. 

“I got two in the office not willing to give up weapons!” a voice shouted then. 

“Well you better learn to trust me!” Keiki shouted. 

“Domino Dean trusts no one!” the voice shouted. 

“I am making a paradise for everyone!” Punk shouted. 

“Kris. What do we do?” I asked him. “Victoria’s in there. I heard her shouting.” 

“Good to see you Trin. Be ready for anything. We may have to storm the gates.” 

“We need backup.” 

“No shit.” 

“Where is everyone? Tye? Skyla? Ansar?” 

“Front door is guarded, but we might have a side way in.” 

“Really? I don’t know the fort that well. Only been there once,” I looked at him. 

“Anyone keeping eye on the east side?” Ali shouted. 

“There’s a few ways we can get in…” Kris said. 

“Keep eye out, little one,” A woman nearby shouted. 

“Just give me the judge’s wife!” a voice shouted. 

“Who’s the guy just shouting?” I asked. 

“He’s a Navajo,” Kris replied. 

“Any CAVALRY you see, gets shot on sight!” Punk shouted. 

“Kris we can’t just fight this with two of us. Besides... Isn’t the fort out of our jurisdiction?” I asked. 

“There’s people in trouble, Trin. And a soldier who’s helping us,” Kris told me. 

“I am unarmed, just give the judge’s wife!” the voice shouted again. 

“She is coming out, LAO CHEN, don’t be stupid!” Punk shouted. 

“I got right to shoot?” Richie asked. 

“Come on… I got an idea,” Kris said. 

“I know… We need a ranger,” I nodded. 

“We go on hill to watch in safety,” Twig said. 

“By the way, we want the rest of your Chinese gold, LAO!” Punk shouted. 

“We bring judge’s wife!” Ya’ii shouted. 

“I coming in! I am unarmed! I won’t leave my general!” Lao shouted. “I have toss the gun over the wall!” 

“We will take this ladder up…” Kris told me. 

“General is not here anymore Lao, you will die if you step inside the Fort, that is not a threat.. but a promise!” Punk shouted. 

“He’s inside!” Ali shouted. 

“Kris… They’ll shoot us. On sight,” I sighed. 

“We will just have to shoot back, won’t we?” Kris pulled out his guns. 

“Make your way out, or I will shoot, Lao!” Ali shouted. 

“Perimeter breach! Check the sides and walls!” Punk shouted. 

“I’m shooting any law I see! Fair warning!” Domino shouted. 

I shook my head and went back to town as they continued to shout about shooting law. When I got back to town I found Chet and called to him to get out as I saw him running to the fort. I heard him shouting at Punk and I sighed, running back to town. I found Starling and Victoria and said, “I was just there... We’re bloody outnumbered. Trying to get reinforcements. Victoria! You got out!” 

“Just tell me how to help Trin!” Richie said. “And who we after?” 

“I did I took Starling with me,” Vic nodded. 

“How many are in there?” I asked. 

“Punk is the leader?” Jessie asked. 

“Starling, you okay? And the baby?” Vic asked. 

“Okay, Punk?” Richie asked. 

“I need to sit down,” Starling said. 

“Vic, how many?” I asked. 

“Is Punk the leader?” Jessie asked again. 

“Yeah he’s in there. I don’t know about leader.” 

“Let’s get you to the hotel. I didn’t see, I was focused on Starling,” Vic said. 

“Doctor needed!” Cole shouted, running down the street. 

“Trin, just asking. I got rights to shoot?” Richie asked. 

“Cole…” I turned to see him. 

“Steve in bad shape!” Cole said. 

“I know, I just... I don’t know much either other than there’s a whole bunch in there. And they’ll shoot any law or soldier on sight,” I said. 

“Well they won’t be expecting me. I’ll try to scout it out,” Richie said. 

“Cole? He is not one?” Jessie asked. 

“Richie, wait…” I tried to stop him. “We need to be smart about this.” 

“Anyone else feeling mighty, come right in! “ Punk shouted as gunfire continued. 

“You have wounded Punk?” Ya’ii shouted. 

“Yes, a slimey one!” Punk shouted back. “One wounded Ya’ii, please take care of him.” 

“Can I have some water?” Lao shouted. 

“Yes please,” Punk shouted. 

“Ya have any hostages, Punk?” Chet shouted. 

“Kris stop using children as shields!” Another voice shouted. 

“Get those kids off the hill!” Ali shouted. 

“CHILDREN get back in town NOW!” Vic shouted. 

“Any kid get shot will be on Kris’ hands!” Punk shouted. I sighed, knowing I couldn’t just go in there as it would be suicidal. 

I heard Punk shouting in Apache and Chet shouted back and forth with him. I looked over at Cole and said, “Cole... We got a problem.” 

“What? I just saved a marshal’s life!” Cole said. 

“Well there’s another idiot marshal using kids as shields and soldiers are going in in spite the threat to shoot them on sight. I go over there, I’m on the ground too. I have to be smart about this.” 

“Huh? Marshal using kids?” 

“It’s Punk, Ali... Keiki... Bunch of others, at the fort. Shooting any law or calvary on sight.” 

“You know I can’t fight against other outlaws?” 

“I know... I just... Reason with them maybe?” 

“They kill me…” 

“Well if I go over there they’ll kill me.” 

“How can a Marshall be using kids as shields? He be kicked out of town forever.” 

“That’s what I heard from the shouting. I don’t know what to do. Tye’s not around, Skyla’s not here. I’m only four days a lawman. I don’t know what… Where’s this marshal? Still at the clinic?” 

“Yeah… He badly hurt. Can you take me there?” 

“Bria… Where’s Angel and Twig?” I asked the girl as she came over. “Honey you shouldn’t have gone over there…” 

“You have to get me near the place,” Cole said. 

“I know we just wanted to see,” Bria said. 

“Okay Cole,” I nodded. 

“And deputize me like Kris did once… So I have permission to draw my guns,” Cole said. Jamie came over and started to talk to the other kids. “I’m going to draw my guns now for my own protection fer what I’m about to get myself into.” 

“Alright Cole, you’re a deputy. I won’t arrest you if you go in there helping me shoot,” I told him. 

“Let’s go,” Cole nodded. 

We moved towards the fort slowly and I heard Punk shouting, “Terms, are now.. ANYONE NOT CLEAR to COME NEAR.. will get shot! So if you don’t want to, get clearance first!” 

“Cole wait!” I shouted after Cole as he ran towards the fort. 

“Cole Dassin is with them, shoot him down!” Punk shouted then and I swore. 

“He is down!” Sniper shouted. 

“Check on Voo Kei, Ya’ii will be here soon!” Punk shouted. 

Suddenly a bullet flew towards me and grazed my arm. I went back to town and apologized to Jessie for being short with her. She said that Ali was in the fort and I nodded. “The status is that anyone who goes over there is shot. I got grazed by a bullet and ran back to town. Yeah she is. She’s on their side. So is Punk, Keiki… They’ve shot down Chet, Kris, Cole… Almost got me down.” 

“Cole? Isn't he one of them?” Jessie asked. 

“I asked him for help, he accepted. There’s nothing I can do.” 

“Maybe I can reason with Ali.” 

“How do you know her?” 

“My friend. The best friend I ever had.” 

“Don’t go in there armed. It’ll just put a target on your back, I don’t care if she is your best friend.” 

She looked down at her belt and said, “I have NO gun…” 

“Women can hide weapons elsewhere too,” I smiled. “Do you think you could talk to her? Get them to come to reason?” 

“It sounds like hell is breaking loose…” Pet commented as she stood there listening. 

“Pretty much sums it up,” I nodded to her. 

“I can try. I don’t know anything for sure,” Jessie said. 

“Well, I really don’t know what else to suggest at this point so it’s worth a try. At least you’re not going to be seen as a threat.” 

“Who has lost their mind this time Trin?” Pet asked. 

“In another life that would’ve been me going in there. Before I was made law of any kind. Bunch of outlaws took over the fort,” I told her. 

“Gracious! Where are the rangers? Are there any at the outpost?” Pet asked. 

“Kris, Chet... They tried to go in there but got shot down. I tried to get someone undercover but that didn’t work either. I haven’t seen any rangers... I don’t even know where the outpost is.” 

“I can show you, if you like. You say they are at the Fort?” Pet asked. 

“All the outlaws, yeah. Where is the outpost?” I asked, not sure I wanted to follow yet. 

“Well…” she pointed towards Two Guns. “You see that high peak on the left? It’s up there.”

“Hey, there are wounded out there,” Bella came over then. “We need a doc.” 

“One who isn’t armed,” I nodded. 

“You going to call for one Bella?” Pet asked. 

“Ya’aii’s been around…” I said. “I thought she was over there too.” 

“Oh dear Lord, don’t tell me that kid is going in there,” Pet said then. 

“Jeffrey!” I called out to the boy who was running towards the fort. “I wouldn’t go over there if I were you honey,” I told him. 

“Trin, do you see the grey building on the hill on the left?” Pet asked. 

“Which one? Behind the trading post?” 

“With the flag on top, yeah. And the end of the railroad tracks... that’s the ranger station.” 

“The one with the flag is where they all are.” 

“At the ranger’s station or the Fort?” 

“How come everyones at the fort miss Pet?” Jeff asked. 

“At the fort... It’s not safe.” 

“Ali I need to talk to you, I am not armed I just need to come talk to you,” Jessie shouted then towards the entrance of the fort. 

“Let’s just let Jessie try to talk to Ali…” I said, hoping it would work. 

“Jeffrey no! It’s not safe. Pet, we gotta get him back to town,” I told Pet as the boy insisted on running to the fort. 

“I’m gonna see if my little house is safe,” Pet said and headed off. 

“Jeff please... We need to go back to town,” I told him. “Come on son,” I put a hand on his shoulder, leading him back to town. 

“Okay ma’am,” he sighed. 

We walked back to the town and I sighed. “What a mess.” 

“How come everyone’s there? Did they have a party?” Jeff asked. 

I tried to think of a good way to explain it to the boy and said, “Oh, they’re having a party alright. But only certain people are invited apparently.” 

“Oh. Then we cant go?” 

“Nope. Sweetie I have to go back to the office. You gonna be okay out here?” 

He nodded and I headed back to the office, knowing there was nothing more I could do. 

June 3, 1899

Tombstone. 

This morning I woke up from my deep sleep and went to clock in before heading outside and closing the door. I went to the hotel kitchen and made myself a coffee, taking it with me as I walked around doing the rounds. 

I walked back to the hotel and talked with the group in front of the hotel. “Trin can you do me a favor and when you see Tye or Peta tell them I quit the hotel please?” Vic looked at me as she sat down. 

“What? Why?” I looked at her. 

“Quit?! Why?” Pet blinked. 

“I am Pet very much. Well Trin I don’t agree with how they see things or treat new people. I’d rather not be associated with them.” 

“Well, Victoria, I’m sorry to hear that. What will you be doing now?” Pet asked. 

“I am not. I am actually very pleased and happy to be away from that.” 

“I’ll be sure to let him know,” I sighed. 

“I am going to focus on my farm. Getting married soon and having a family.” 

“Really?! That is good news! Have you known him long?” Pet asked. 

“I am happy very happy. It’s not like we are getting married today but yes he is a great man and I love spending time with him. We are taking the time to get to know each other. I just well my farm takes me away.” 

“Well, congratulations hon,” Pet said. 

A few others joined us in front of the hotel and I eventually said, “I still haven’t seen Tom.” 

“I am sorry, Trin I am sure he is around don’t lose heart,” Vic said. 

“Oh that fella you thought was dead?” Peta asked and I nodded. 

“Or give up. People do that too easily when it’s worth fightin for,” Vic said. 

“I keep hearin’ people say they seen him,” Peta said. 

“Chet talked with him once... Haven’t seen him around at all. They do?” I looked at her hopefully. 

“Er… yes?” 

“Who’s seen him? Where?” 

“I can say I have not seen this Tom. What does he look like Trin?” Vic asked. 

“Uhhh... I’m sorry I really can’t remember. I just heard people discussin’ people who’d seen it, and it may have been that Chet fella,” Peta said. 

“I just wish he’d show up already. Apparently he told Chet that a ‘miss trin’ has his medical papers so he remembers my name... But I don’t have anything of his…” I said. 

“Ya got his medical papers? What kinda medical papers?” Peta asked as Vic squealed when Nhil came over. 

“I guess that’s what he said. Didn’t really get it either. I said I don’t have anything from him. So I don’t know what he’s goin’ on about but the fact that he mentioned my name has to be promising.” 

“Hmm... could be the crazies,” Peta said. 

“Ohh yer sweet on him?” Ru asked. 

“We dated from for months… But then I stopped hearin’ from him. When I moved to Tombstone Chet told me that he’d died in a fire back home. But then Chet said he’d seen him alive but he remembers nothing,” I explained. “And I haven’t seen him still so I won’t believe it until I see his face…” 

Vic went on about Nhil and how great he was as conversation continued. Pet talked about the first women’s society meeting where Nellie gave her story to fifteen women. She said that next month, the first woman to graduate from medical school would be coming to town. Nhil commented on how he was glad he wasn’t in the room with fifteen women there. 

Sirus looked at me at one point and asked when I became a deputy and I said, “Just recently actually. Realized I wasn’t doin’ much as a Pinkerton ’casuse I had no authority to do anything productive... Decided to get a better badge.” 

“Yep. Pinkertons generally... don’t do much,” Peta nodded. “And law could use more hands, I hear.” 

“Was touch and go... Being shot twice in the same arm don’t really heal quickly, ya know?” 

“Yeah but deputy… gettin’ shot don’t seem productive either.” 

“That’s why I’ve gotta get better. Gonna have to take you up on that target practicin’ sooner or later,” I winked. 

“Yep Tye mentioned that, uh, you need some more practice,” Peta nodded. 

“Oh did he, Peta? I was a lot better than I thought I was gonna be…” 

“Errr... yeah! I’m sure that’s what he meant.” 

“Was more used to sniping than the running around and shooting... But I guess I chock every gunshot up to experience. Besides, gives me somethin to do, right?” I winked at Sirus. 

“So..umm..ya got any warrants on any bad folks?” Sirus chuckled. “I recon...gotta walk that path that you think best for yerself.” 

“Oh yeah. Lotsa folks think they come to town and they’re immediately good shots. It takes practice,” Peta said. 

“Sure does,” I nodded and looked at Sirus. “You know I can’t release that information.” 

“I mean not that id rat anyone out or anything like that.. I’m just nosey and all,” he said. .

“I’ve got my ways,” I smiled at him slowly, but then I frowned, knowing I might be in over my head with Cole as an information, and shook off the doubt. 

We continued to talk about how Tye had been busy a lot lately and I continued to reflect on how frustrating it was that Tom wasn’t really around like Chet said he was. We talked about Tombstone and how it drew us in. I talked with some people in front of the saloon including a man named Enki. After a while, I headed back to the office and did some paperwork.

*** 

Tonight I went to the town dance and was surprised to see Sniper there, a man who’d hung out with Buckshot Bill back in Amiville. He told me to join in the dance so I did, trying to leave the past behind me where it belonged. 

June 2, 1899

Tombstone. 

This morning I walked into the sheriff’s office and clocked in and checked to see if there were any new warrants. I heard Sky and Ansar shouting outside and went outside to join them as they were talking about the incident yesterday in Pearce. Sky again reminded me to close the door again and Tye came over, greeting me and calling me “Rookie”. 

“Think I might wander around a bit. Call if ya need somethin’,” I said then. 

“I already walked around a bit,” Tye shrugged. 

“Was up late last night talkin’ about Tom with Chet so I slept in. Need to move around.” 

“Oh, that. What’s all that about?” Tye asked. 

“Chet’s been talking to Tom in town... he doesn’t remember anything, just said that I would have the medical papers or somethin’. Thinks his name is John. Has no memory of what happened, doubt he’ll even remember me to see me.” 

“Uh, dead Tom? Like burned in the fire back home dead Tom?” Tye asked. 

“John… Wait, John who?” Sky asked. 

“Yeah, the guy that I thought was dead whom I’d been courtin’ since February Tom.” 

“You sure ya ain’t just seein’ things?” 

“What last name is he using Trin?” Sky asked. 

“I haven’t seen him yet. Pet said she’d seen Chet talkin’ to him, and he matched the description I’d given her. Then Chet came to me last night and told me all about it. Chet didn’t mention a last name,” I looked at her. 

“Ya mean I done gave you my whiskey for nothin’? Bah!” Tye grunted. “Why I even bother.” 

“I have no idea what’s goin’ on anymore... I won’t believe it till I see him,” I looked at Tye. “I just hope he doesn’t…” I shook my head. “Gonna check something in the office first,” I said and turned to the office. I took another pill for the pain in my shoulder and then went back outside. 

“Oh Cole. I need ya ta fill a statement out,” Sky was saying. “About Nhil yesterday, please.” 

“Huh? What happened yesterday?” Tye asked. 

“Hey Cole,” I nodded to him. 

“Oh, Nhil shot him. Early in the morning,” Sky said. 

“Really…” I looked at Sky. 

“And you still employ him?” Tye shook his head. 

“Gonna wander around,” I said and looked at Cole before heading around the corner. I felt like I was being followed and turned to see Nhil. “What’s up?” 

“On patrol?” he looked around. 

“Wandering around,” I said with a smile. “Somethin I can help you with?” 

“Nope… do I need a reason?” he smirked. “Still mad at me, so just allowed to talk to you on official matters?” he joked. 

“You asked about official matters first,” I smiled. “How are you doing?” 

“Oh… I guess…” he shrugged and rubbed his chin. “I am well Ma’am, just see how you doing as Miss Law Woman.” 

“That’s sweet. I’m alright. Still sore from bein’ shot in the arm twice in one day the other day but the meds seem to be helping,” I smiled. 

“Well you looking like you are in..umm..healthy condition,” he smirked suddenly. “Just glad it working out. It can be a hard job I am sure.. and no thanks for those you help… well.. I would thank you, but usually I help you,” he teased. 

“Yeah well, it’s been a while since I’ve been in this position... being a Pinkerton you don’t really... do much, I learned. Needed something with a bit more productivity, ya know?” 

“I understand exactly what you mean.. why I am a ranch hand. So much horse shit to shovel… barely can come into town without it getting deep enough to make the horses learn to doggy paddle,” he joked. 

“I grew up on a ranch so I know what ya mean. It ain’t the most clean of environments,” I chuckled. 

“I don’t mind… Soap does magic,” Nhil shrugged and looked around with a sigh. “Well… Suppose you should get going. Don’t want you getting in trouble for hanging out with the mean outlaw Nhil the Crazy shooter!” 

“Guess I should wander around,” I said and chuckled. “Stay safe, Nhil.” 

I walked back into town and saw a crowd growing, so I walked over with curiosity. Wedge had his hands on his weapons already and I rose an eyebrow with interest. 

“You’re an idiot,” Nhil sighed as he looked over at Cole. “Said Lot told me you go around to every woman for personal… interests… It was Sky that says you try to gun her down lately. Need it said with less words? Or words with less syllables?” 

“What is going on?” Starling asked. 

“Not sure… Nuttin’ good, Missus,” Wedge looked back at Starling. 

“Some cussin and accusin bewteen married folk, the usual stuff. Could end up with fists flying. Want to take a wager?” Jimmi asked. 

“Naw, I know better Sir,” Wedge chuckled. 

“Pffft. Yeah. I try to introduce you to Lot the other night and you sudden ride off. I’ll ask around as to whether you even meet him yet,” Cole said. 

“What, for Cole? No thanks,” Starling said. 

“I don’t know… he is taller than me. A big man,” Jimmy said. 

“I don’t need to meet Lot, he is my brother.. idiot,” Nhil shrugged and leaned over to check his horse’s shoes. 

“Cole, what does it matter? Honestly?” Sky asked. 

“Ohhhh… he your brother now? Lot never tell me that… and I asked him.” 

“Always was....you never asked,” Nhil nodded. 

“Cole, stop trying ta stir shit? Ya wanna do that go ta the corral,” Sky smirked. 

“Does Lot know he has a brother?” Jimmi asked. 

“Honey do you think it wise that the children should stay in the street?” Starling asked. 

“That’s a lie,” Nhil said. “Kris gave you a gun, and you came at me to take me down.” 

“Well honey, we better be to church now,” Jimmi said. “If this is testimony I don’t want to hear it today,” Jimmi said and started to lead Starling away. 

“Any more lies… I can work through them one by one… Well don’t break out of jail and come at me, when you don’t have the brains to pull your guns in time.. You’re just slow in the brain and the draw.. not going to wait for you to shoot at me,” Nhil said. 

“Nhil, why don’t ya take Silver fer a walk?” Sky suggested. 

“You crazy Nhil .. you shoot me in the bar.... with your guns drawn out… where was the law that day??” Cole asked. 

I went over to the soldier I’d seen in Pearce and he introduced himself as Wedge. I introduced myself and continued to listen to the argument between Nhil and Cole. 

“I was called citizen’s arrest.. and you had your guns out, you shot Alex and why he shot you too..when you were shooting at me when I came inside the saloon… but of course you lied to Paige and told her you were unarmed like the liar you are.. two timer,” Nhil nodded. 

“Those two at it again?” I nodded to Nhil and Cole. 

“Seems so,” Wedge nodded. 

“I shoot you now too…” Cole hissed at Nhil. 

“And on a Sunday too... Think they couldn’t just give it a rest for one day…” I sighed.

“Nice to meet you though, Trin,” Wedge nodded. 

“You too, Wedge,” I smiled. 

“Cole, you draw, I’m taking ya down. No ands, ifs, or buts,” Sky insisted. 

“Go ahead,” Nhil nodded. 

“You just lucky you got Sky in yer pocket,” Cole said. 

“Ain’t about having me in his pocket,” Sky said. 

“Aww.. coping my words about you and Kris.. that’s cute.. not very original but don’t expect much from you,” Nhil said. 

“I’ve arrested him, for crying out loud,” Sky said. “Now Cole, stop pissing and whinning and carrying on. You came up bothering him. Go about ya way.” 

Nhil and Cole greeted Luke and we took notice of his name as he was introduced. Cole said then, “If sky not here I take you up on that Nihl… but why should I get shot down by your friend in the back… just to have a shot at you…”

“Don’t worry about her,” Nhil said. "You will be down before she draws… and she not your friend.. we went through this, she don’t like you… or want to do anything with you… Go find your wife you chased out of town, and swoon her instead of Miss Sky.” 

“Cole, hush it and go on,” Sky said. 

“You heard me wrong Nihl… she YOUR friend… she shoot me down in the back… if I shoot you,” Cole said. 

“Hey, I’m only this to keep you two from hurting ANYONE,” Sky said. “So behave, the both of ya.” 

“Oh..then you did understand right...good job, I take that back,” Nhil nodded. 

“We find another time like this morning early when she not as attentive… and have our own little party,” Cole said. 

“Skyla… Is that your horse?” Luke asked. 

“Indeed she is,” Sky nodded. “One of em.” 

“Is he fast?” 

“Whenever you want to get shot, and go cry like a baby to the law to get me arrested..you go a head..be that big bad outlaw everyone knows your not....just like you were yesterday,” Nhil nodded. 

“She,” Sky corrected. “Luke, she’s a she, not a he.” 

“You the one saying I’m some big bad outlaw. I never say that bout myself,” Cole said. 

“Like my Pa always said...don’t let your alligator mouth, over load your jay bird rear end,” Nhil said and I gave Cole a look, trying to calm him down, as he walked off and kicked the dirt. 

“Yeah metaphors are wasted on the dim witted,” Nhil nodded. 

I looked over at Nhil and said, “You already said I couldn’t tell ya what to do, or I’d tell you again to give it a rest.” 

I watched Rikki ride by with the wagon and Wedge mumbled, “Wonder what else she’s going to blow up or steal.” 

I chuckled at that and Nhil looked at Sky and said, “Yyesa master..right away mesta...me be goin’ right quick....don;t get the switch masta.” He took Silver by the bridle and winked at me. “He started it, Trin… I just don’t back down. You can ask Sky who started, people need to stop protecting outlaws and crapping on the victims of this here town that defend themselves.” 

“I don’t care what started it today. How did this feud between them start in the first place? From what I understand it’s been goin’ on a while,” I looked around. 

“Cole.. All I’m saying,” Sky looked at me. 

“It ain’t that simple. It never is,” I sighed. 

“Hate never is,” Wedge shrugged. 

“True enough,” I nodded to him. I saw Cole sitting across the road and walked over to him. “Cole…?” I started as I heard Keiki shouting to Ansar and Cas. 

“Huh?” Cole was staring off into space. 

“You wanna talk?” 

“Um…. ‘bout what, Trin?” 

“You and Nhil.” 

“What about him?” Cole glared. 

“Where’d all this tension come from?” 

“He new to town and trying to take it over is what.” 

“Is that so?” 

“That is so.” 

“Take it over how?” 

“Lot used to manage the town in a semi respectable manner… he ain’t even been around lately,” Cole said. “Now this Nihl has been running this town buckshot. Killing everyone that move. This guy is dirty... AND new.... like he own the place. Lot a fool sometime.. he ain’t no preacher boy. But Nhil is like the devil himself. You haven’t seen the half of what he done. And he jest get here.” 

“You gotta keep your head clean, Cole. You want Del to come back and find you in jail? Or dead?” I looked at him. 

“Del be gone a while yet .. and in the meantime I’m getting all the Outlaws together and we all going to have a circle talk with this Nihl and show him he ain’t our boss .. burn him at the stake if need be. What? You think we let him take over the town?” 

“Just seen this before… It didn’t end well.” 

“Well… ain’t no new person running us over.” 

I stood and looked at Cole. “Just... Let us handle this the right way, alright?” 

“Pfft… the way Sky does?” Cole asked. 

“You don’t trust me, do you?” I looked at him. 

“I trust you… to play it by the book. Nhil is dirty. You gotta play it dirty with him. You can’t do that Trin.” 

“Cole…” I started. 

“Howdy, Trin. Cole,” Dee walked over to us. 

“Just…” I started and then greeted her, “Hey Dee.” I looked back to Cole and said, “Be smart about this, and legit,” I said and headed back across the road. I knew I needed to talk to Sky and walked over to her. She shook her head at me as if to say ‘not right now’. I nodded in understanding and we saw Kris walked out into the street. I watched Wedge head off and I walked down the street. 

*** 

A few hours later I walked into town and greeted Nhil and the group sitting in front of the hotel. I could hear Tye shouting in the distance, “Blake! Stop!” 

“What’s that all about?” I asked and ran to try and find Tye. I saw him standing with two women I hadn’t met yet and asked him, “Tye, What’s going on?” 

“I reckon you never met Blake before,” Tye was saying to the woman. 

“So as I was saying… This madwoman arrives with her handcannon and tells everyone to get out of the office or she’ll shoot,” one woman said. 

“I will get him if so is the last thing I ever do,” said the other one. 

“She counted to three and everyone fired,” said the other one. 

“Wrong. I never did count to three.” 

“And now you’re hunting down one of the two men that arrived after the first three men were already in there. So… good job.” 

“I never did say three. It was so much easier in the old days.” 

“Ma’am, I’ve never seen ya before and I got a whole lot of folks in my jail and some others sayin’ ya started a gunfight in the jail,” Tye looked between them. 

“I did not. He shot the first shot. I did not fire once. Check my rifle,” the woman said and I realized what was going on, seeing that she still had her gun out. 

“Well, regardless, you’ll have a heck of a time convincing a jury that he wasn’t just trying to defend himself. Get me a warrant and we’ll keep an eye out for him,” Tye said. 

“I will.” 

“Oi, Pinky, snap out of it,” Tye said then, looking over at me. I had been lost in my thoughts and blinked, looking back at him. 

“Alright, let’s go.” 

“Go where? I’m right here. Anyhow. I asked if you got it figured out what happened?” 

“Lead the way, then,” Tye sighed, following me as I walked towards the hotel. 

“Need to talk to you about something. Alone.” 

“Well? I’m up here. Let’s not linger too long. I don’t like leaving the street for too long,” Tye looked at me when we were alone. 

“I don’t like leaving the street for too long. I got some intel on something that may be coming down the pike and I wanted to give you the heads up. I was talking to Cole about what’s been goin on between him and Nhil. This is gonna get ugly. More ugly than what it is now.” 

“Yeh? And what specifically was said?” 

“He said he was gonna get a ban of outlaws together and go against Nhil. Since he’s a new guy and tryin to ’take over the town’ as Cole said.” 

“This ain’t the first time he’s said that.” 

“It’s not?” 

“What do you want to do, put full time guard on Nhil? Man’s been shooting up the town, Tombstone gets even eventually.” 

“I know... I just couldn’t not tell you about the conversation. Full disclosure and all that. Cole trusts me to play this by the book. I think I can keep getting him to feed me more information but it could get dicey.” 

“Cole trusts you to play this by the book? Does he not get what the book even is? He gets a gang against Nhil, they’ll all hang.” 

“I get that, Tye, I do,” I nodded. “But this is gonna get real ugly real fast and it ain’t gonna stop at the two of them shooting just each other. I’ve got an in with Cole if we want to use it. We’re just friends so it ain’t nothin like that... He’s committed to Del. But he does tell me things.” 

“No one’s ever said he ain’t an idiot.” 

“Was that a compliment, Tye Durden?” I blinked at him. 

“In what bizarre world would that be a compliment?” Tye looked at me, dumbfounded. 

“I said Cole trusts me, we’re good friends. You said no one ever said he wasn’t an idiot, meaning he picks his friends wisely?” 

“No one. Has ever said. ‘Cole’s not an idiot’. Meanin’ he’s a damn fool.” 

“Let’s get down there again,” I glared at him and started to turn. 

“You got a badge now. He talks to you, he’s dumber than I thought.” 

“He talked to me before I had this badge,” I shrugged. 

“But, exploit it, I got no issue with that.” 

“Okay,” I nodded. 

“Your chest is nicer than mine.” 

“Now I know that was a compliment,” I chuckled. 

“Gonna check on V,” Tye sighed and headed down the street, looking at V. He looked over at a woman nearby and asked, “You folks seen his hands, right? That old man, weren’t no old man. That was Blake.” 

“That what Punk’s callin himself these days? I swear he has a new name every time I see him,” I looked over. 

“His name’s Blake. Ain’t Punk or Poe or whatever else he calls himself. He’s William Blake,” Tye shook his head. “Well I just felt like talkin’, V. So here I am, talkin’. Well, ya friend there - the Ranger - got shot by Blake and was lookin’ for him. Or right here, frankly.” 

The Apache walked into town then and I listened to them talk as I grew curious about what was going on. I went over to Blake and said, “Blake, hold up.” 

“Excuse me, son,” Punk said to Tye and I watched him. 

“When I got shot the other day ... You told Chet to keep me close. Why?” I asked him.

“Nice hands ya got there, old man,” Tye sighed and shook his head at the old man. 

“Must have mistook me fer’ someone, young woman,” he told me. 

“Sure I did. Well if you see the real William Blake, whoever the hell he is...  Tell him I need to speak with him.” 

“Be sure to keep that in mind, lady,” the man said and cautiously glanced over at Tye. 

“Be on with ya, ’old man’. The ranger ain’t got nothin’ on ya, and neither do I. So best head on before she realizes it,” Tye shrugged. 

“I’ll be in the office,” I looked between the man and Tye. I headed into the office and closed the door to take a nap.