A cold night for all, a long night for some. A bright sun wakes the populace in The Flat, this last morning of January, eighteen-hundred-seventy-seven. Odd how the sun seems so bright, and yet the bitter cold lingers like an unwelcome relative. It is as if the sun is no warmer than a kerosene street lamp, lighting the way but doing nothing to chase the cold.

The deputy and his posse had found the suspect in the wee hours of the morning. Now each of the six men captured what sleep he could after the early excursion, having returned to his respective lodgings for the remainder of the night. By the time all the horses had been secured, and gear stowed, the men found themselves finally earning a piece of shut-eye at roughly 2:30 a.m.

A few hours later, rising, breaking the fast and preparing for the day, each man observes the icy conditions in the streets. Turns out that hunter knew of what he spoke; the rain had returned before sunrise, leaving a freezing thin layer of ice above the earth. The hour turns to 8 when the men begin their day. Most of the posse had planned to attend the hearings, now just an hour hence, and nothing about this new day seemed inclined to change that fact.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:44, Wed 24 July 2013.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 1):

Travis rises, dresses, arms himself and makes his way into the hall and towards breakfast.

Cole grabs himself a quick breakfast and heads towards the jail to join the others.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 1):

They say that waking up is hard to do. Now he knows, he knows that it's true. But, instead of waking up, he wishes he was laying down again.

Nevertheless, the day will press on with some duties are new for Randy Oldman. At the breakfast table, he will share his sincere apologies with any of the tenants of the Owsley's, and the proprietors as well, he disturbed in the middle of the night. He figures no harm would come of telling the tenants of the midnight ride of the posse to the Jameson spread. And how Randy found the spry chinaman hold-up in the loft of the barn. And even more of how the man tried to push Mr. Big'un off the loft, but he was too much the man to take the shove. And moreover, Randy's discovery saved the deputy and professor from getting jumped themselves, lesser men they are, and surely incurring injury or worse.

Following the meal, Randy heads to Earl's for a shave and a bathe.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 1):

Reckon I oughtta clean up a mite, seein' as how I'll be sittin' in front of a judge afore the mornin's done," Jake thought to himself, stifling a yawn with the back of his hand. It was late when they got back from Jameson's spread, and the ex-Wells Fargo man had found himself wondering what would happen to the woman -- Indian Kate -- whom they had gone to so much trouble to find. Jake smiled at remembering the grit that Kate had exhibited in what must have been a tough situation for her. Woman's got herself more sand than plenty of men I know, he concluded.

Jake walked over to the chest of drawers where the pitcher of water and basin were placed, and set his straight-razor and bar of soap down beside the pitcher. Ain't quite certain-sure what time it's gettin' to be, so I reckon I'd better clean my owndamnself up a mite instead of headin' over to the barber shop. With that thought in mind, the Texan set to work, washing his face, neck and hands before soaping up his face and commencing to shave. There was no mirror, but Jake had a steady hand and plenty of experience shaving in field conditions, so he wasn't too concerned about not being able to peer at his reflection as he set to work.

Once he had finished and wiped off the last bit of soap, Jake put on his clean shirt and trousers, pulled on his boots, and headed downstairs to eat some breakfast in the hotel dining room before heading over to the hearing. Wonder if Mister Snoddy'll be around this morning? An' iff'n he is, I wonder iff'n he's come to a conclusion concernin' that matter that had him all bumfoozled an' knocked inta a cocked hat last eve?

In reply to Jake Richardson (msg # 5):

The short sleep was somewhat restless as ENS continued to mull the investigation in his dreams. Nevertheless, he was able to get up and get ready for the day quickly, having weathered many a final exam's eve. He washes up and shaves in his room, puts on his good suit (leaving the Colt for now), and heads down for breakfast.

In reply to Randy Oldman (msg # 4):

"Mornin', suh. A pleasure to see y'agin," says Elijah Earl, when Randy Oldman enters. The man wipes down the barber's chair, quickly, and motions for Randy sit.

"How did the first performance turn out, suh?"

Travis eats quickly and seeing he has preceded his friends to the vittles, walks to the Cattleman's association.  Arriving early, he takes a seat in the rear in the corner.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 1):

JEB spends the night at the jailhouse and rises early to take Indian Kate's testimony. He finishes with just enough time to freshen up at his hotel room, have breakfast and make it to the hearing.

In reply to Jake Richardson (msg # 5):

Jake does indeed find Mr. Snoddy in the lobby during the breakfast hour; however the man seems quite busy. Although there is no indication that the proprietor intends to avoid Jake Richardson--Snoddy gives a cordial greeting to Jake as he does to others--he makes no attempt to rekindle the conversation from the night before.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 8):

Travis Sunday finds himself among the first attendees to arrive. The space in the makeshift gallery is limited, but his early arrival guarantees the pick of the seats that are available. He settles into the chair and watches the comings and goings of cattlemen and lawmen and others arriving for the hearings including Senor Rojas, who acknowledges Sunday's presence and gives him a sign that he is available to talk, if the man from the Butterfield Overland is so inclined.

In reply to Cole Trayne (msg # 3):

Cole reaches the jail after his breakfast, but finds that his pards are scarce. Mangy Mansfield sits on the front porch with Chubby Wilson.

"Beauregard is indoors, talkin' to Kate," he says, thumbing toward the door. "I reckon he's almost done. I'm fixin' to head to the Cattleman's Association."

In reply to Mangy Mansfield (msg # 12):

Cole nods.

Much obliged, deputy.

Reckon I'll just wait here till JEB comes out.

Cole steps to one side and waits.

In reply to E.N.S. Ringgenberg (msg # 6):

ENS finishes breakfast alone and goes back up to his room. He retrieves the two knives and the metal shard from his trunk, as well as his evidence kit. He proceeds to examine the items to determine if the shard came from either of the knives.

Take 10 + 7: Investigate, Analyze Clue

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 10):

Jake went about eating his breakfast, then headed back up to his room to retrieve his hat, coat, and carbine.

Then he headed downstairs and over to the Cattlemans' Association. Upon his arrival there he spotted both Travis and Rojas, and nodded a greeting to both men.

"Good mornin' to you, Mr. Earl. I need a shave, hair cut, and a bath." Randy accepts the seat and settles in for the primping.

"Thank ya for asking about the show last night. I say, from my view, it was perfect. The show went without a single hitch and the audience was hootin' in the right places and hollerin' when they was 'sposed to, as well. I can't tell you the last time I had that much fun, I say. It was just a joy.

"It seems some of the folks have taken to callin' me 'Mr. Big'un'. I figgur it's on account of my big and silly self on the stage. But, I tell you Mr. Earl, I kinda like it. They call that a 'stage name'."

In reply to E.N.S. Ringgenberg (msg # 14):

ENS completes his analysis of the two knives and the metal shard. He checks his watch and finds that he has precious little time to get to the hearings.

In reply to Jake Richardson (msg # 15):

Jake finds himself among the earlier arrivals, but certainly not the first. In addition to Rojas and Sunday, he sees a few men that he doesn't recognize, as well as the hunter named Marino, the man they call Weasel, Mangy Mansfield, and the two hunters that bet on the outcome of Sunday's gunfight.

The place is filling up. If Jake desires, he may take a seat on one of the benches in the gallery.

In reply to Randy Oldman (msg # 16):

The barber listens as Mr. Big'un talks, occasionally tossing in a "do tell," or "ain't that somethin."

When Randy introduces his new stage name, Earl chuckles. "Mr. Big'un. Hehehe. Sure'nuff fits."

In reply to Elijah Earl (msg # 19):

The chair talk continues, as it often does in a barber shop. Surely, another patron or two steps in for their turn and joins the mundane chatter.

Randy moves on, after his shave and cut, for for his bath. The bath is meant to help him feel fresh for the day after the long night.

Now clean, Mr. Big'un heads back to the boarding house for a change into his suit--that is if the rain has subsided and the skies look clear. Otherwise, he'll proceed right over to the Cattleman's Association for the trials, already in progress most likely.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 17):

ENS secures his tools and the knives/shard, grabs his coat and hat and heads for the Association.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 18):

Jake decided to take a seat on a bench that was in the row just in front of the benches along the back wall of the room. He sat just next to the aisle, so that he had plenty of room to angle his legs out.

In reply to E.N.S. Ringgenberg (msg # 21):

ENS arrives at the Cattleman's Association. A quick visual assessment reveals that the ground floor, serving as the courtroom this morning, is nearly full. A few men are standing, most are seated on the few benches. The professor recognizes a number of the attendees, including some of his recent acquaintances and colleagues. He sees a space on a bench he might squeeze into, or he could choose to stand.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 9) and Cole Trayne (msg # 13):

Roughly ten minutes pass before the deputy exits Pickett Jail. Mansfield had already made his way to the Cattleman's Association. Chubby Wllson made small talk with Cole Trayne, but nothing more than what was polite before he settled into the porch chair, content in his own thoughts.

Noting the time, JEB heads back to Planters, with Cole following. The men exchange greetings and news, if any, as they walk, and then JEB goes to his room to freshen up. Cole remains outdoors, expecting that the wait will be brief. Sure enough, the deputy returns promptly and they head to the site of the day's hearings.

Arriving at three minutes before 9 a.m., JEB and Cole find the place full. Mangy Mansfield stands near the stairs, motioning for JEB to join him there. Cole sees no good place to sit, but he finds a place to stand inside the doorway. He figures that anyone coming in after him will have listen in to the hearings from outside.

OOC: The Judge is pausing, briefly, in case any PCs want to post a follow-up that would occur before the hearings proceed (especially JEB and Cole, since Cole explicitly made contact before arriving).

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 23):

ENS sees his new friends in various places around the courtroom, nodding his greetings if he catches their eye. He then finds a seat in the benches.

OOC: ENS will try to get a seat next to any of the group, even asking politely if someone would slide over as long as there's room; otherwise, he'll just take what's available.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 24):

Good morning, Cole. I reckon you'll be called to testify at the hearing.

In reply to James E. Beauregard

Morning JEB. Figured as much.

You all set?

In reply to Cole Trayne (msg # 27):

I am. How about you?

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 28):

Yup. Let's get this show on the road.

Gesturing down the road, the wrangler continues his thought.

After you...

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 24):

An office door down the hall opens and the small talk amongst the spectators trails off when Deputy Mansfield speaks aloud.

"All rise for Judge W.H. Ledbetter, presidin'."

In reply to Mangy Mansfield (msg # 30):

The men on the benches stand up as the judge exits the office, which serves as his temporary chambers. Ledbetter, a wiry man of average height with a receding hairline and graying goatee, enters the main chamber of the Cattle Association, taking a seat behind a desk that serves as the judge's bench. He is followed by a younger man, who takes a chair at a small writing desk, alongside the judge.

As Judge Ledbetter sits, he motions for those in attendance to resume their seats, as well.

"Let us get this wagon rollin'," states the Judge. He turns to the clerk at the writing desk. "Mr. Smithers, call the first case on the docket."

The clerk does as asked, calling a certain Ned Carter to face the bench. A man of average height, with black hair and a scruffy beard, stands and approaches. He wears a second-hand men's suit jacket, ill-matched to his weathered trousers. Most recognize Ned as one of the street vendors trying to scratch a living in The Flat's winter months; he pushes a cart around town selling foodstuffs, bric-a-brac and various curios. Most of JEB's posse have seen Carter, but none has ever responded to the man as he hawked his good--or attempted to approach him, although a feller might have a recollection of hearing the man's name mentioned duirng their time in town.

Senor Rojas stands by Carter's side, as the clerks reads a charge of petty theft. The judge asks whether the accused understands the charges against him and asks for his intended plea. Carter responds, saying "not guilty, yer honor." The Judge then questions the man about the case, getting quickly to the point. In essence, Carter contends he had no idea that the steel utensil in question was the property of Doc Culver, and that he had returned it and even offered . . . well, he struggles mightily for a word until Rojas interjects with "recompense."

Finally, shaking his head, and touching his quill to a piece of paper in front of him, the Judge issues his ruling, with a didactic dose of caution.

"Mr. Carter, this is the second time you have appeared in front of this bench. In the interest of savin' us all a heap of effort, I am imposing a fine of $10 with the intent to close this case; however, if I see you a third time, I suspect you will find yourself servin' some time in Albany. What say you?"

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 31):

For those who can see Ned Carter's face, the man's surprise is evident. His jaw drops at the mention of ten dollars. Before he can respond, Rojas whispers to him. Finally, Carter responds, without enthusiasm.

"That sounds right fair enuff, yer honor."

The Judge snaps his gavel and speaks again to the clerk, who calls the next case, being Willard Vickers who approaches. Once again, Senor Rojas stands alongside the accused.

Ledbetter reads the charge against him, of horse theft, and asks for his plea.

EDIT: typo
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:00, Sat 03 Aug 2013.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 33):

The man with the shock of white hair speaks without hesitation. "Not guilty, sir."

In reply to Vickers (msg # 34):

The Judge makes a mark with his quill, takes a moment to review a document, and then glances around the courtroom. "Is there a Jake Richardson in attendance?"

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 35):

Upon hearing his name called, Jake rose to his feet, hat in hand, and replied, "Here, yer Honor."

In reply to Jake Richardson (msg # 36):

"Approach, Mr. Richardson."

As Jake obliges the request, the Judge speaks to him. "I understand that the accusation against Mr. Vickers involves your property. Now, in a case involvin' property," says Judge Ledbetter, glancing around the assembled men as if he were here to deliver a lecture, "the offended party must choose to press forward. My further understandin' is that Mr. Richardson wishes to do so . . . and considerin' the serious nature of the charge, I would like to hear what transpired from both parties before I decide whether to pursue a trial."

"Mr. Caudell," he continues, "has indicated that the county can establish a case based on Mr. Richardson's complaint."

He takes a breath and faces the rifleman. "Would you care to make a statement at this time, Mr. Richardson?"

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 37):

Jake blinked as he stood in front of the judge and nervously turned his hat round and round. His fingers were on the brim, and looking as active and fidgety as those of a telegraph operator who was tapping out a message.

"Meanin', you want me to say what happened?" he asked.

OOC: Edited in Aqua.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:01, Sat 03 Aug 2013.

In reply to Jake Richardson (msg # 38):

"A summary of the facts will do. Whatever you think is important."

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 39):

"Well, yer Honor," Jake replied, lifting his right hand to scratch at his schin-whiskers, "I don't rightly know what the Law'd consider important, an' what ain't. So with yer Honor's permisshunn, I'd like to just say the way it was that night, an' leave it to you to hold onto what's important, an' discard what ain't. So, s'cuse me if I ramble a mite, but here's the way it was."

"We was of a mind to journey out to the Tonkawa Injun camp, an' my pard Travis Sunday, yonder," here Jake turned and nodded towards Travis, "was tole that Lewis Kirbee an' his pard Weasel Vickers was ones who could guide us out thaere, so's we wouldn't be wanderin' all o'er Hell's half-acre."

"So, Kirbee an' Vickers was hired on as guides, an' off we went -- Mister Sunday, the Perfesser, who is a learned man from back East, our pard Cole Trayne, an' Deputy Beauregard . . . along with Kirbee an' Vickers, of course." Jake tuned and nodded to ENS, Cole, and JEB in turn, having already acknowledged Travis.

"At the end of the first day's ride, we made camp, et, an' turned in for the night. I was asleep when things started to go south. I got waked up by some gunshots, an' first thing I  saw was a feller standin' 'bout ten feet away from me. I heard Cole Trayne, who was on watch, yellin' somethin' 'bout Kirbee bein' bad, an' for us to put him down -- an' that there was someone else out amongst the horses."

"Turns out that the man standin' near me was Kirbee, an' he was pointin' his pistol over at Cole. I saw some gunsmoke swirlin' 'round him, so I figured he'd already fired at least once."

"JEB -- Deputy Beauregard -- bless his heart, fired at Kirbee whilst I was scrabblin' for my Spencer. Otherwise, Kirbee might've got me, seein' as how he was standin' so close by. Since Kirbee was so close I couldn't hardly miss, so I put a round in his midsection an'  got up on my feet."

"Like I said, I'm sure I hit Kirbee -- an' Deputy Beauregard an' Cole Trayne was firin' at him, too, an' might've also hit him. I'd say that Kirbee was dead afore he hit the ground -- an' if not, very damned soon afterwards."

"Soon as I saw that Kirbee was down an' outta the fight, I turned an' seen somebody spurrin' my horse -- Ghost -- away at a gallop. Travis Sunday an' the Perfesser was firin' at the rider, an' I snapped off a shot soon as I had a chance. Truth be told, I ain't certain-sure whether I hit Weasel or Ghost -- the light was poor an' the rider was low in the saddle, presentin' a right smallish target. I followed a short way on foot, but wasn't willin' to risk no more shots in such chancy circumstances."

"I returned to the camp an' kept the Perfesser comp'ny whilst he tended to Jack -- that's Cole's dog, who got hisself shot by Vickers. Cole mounted up fast as blazes an' took off after Vickers, lickety-split, an' Travis an' Deputy Beauregard mounted up an' followed soon afterwards."

"After a while, I heard a single rifle report from somwheres off to the east -- a goodly ways off, from the sound of it."

"A right longish time afterwards, I caught sight of everybody comin' back into camp, walkin' the horses. Seems like my pards had managed to catch up with Ghost an' Vickers afore he was able to get clean away. Ghost was 'bout played out from the chase an' had a bullet crease, but I reckon he'll recover, given good care an' rest. Vickers rode him nearabouts into the ground, but leastways he didn't cripple him nor kill him. 'Twas a right good thing the Perfesser was thaere that night to tend to him."

Jake paused, and took a deep breath. "Reckon that's my statement, yer Honor -- 'less you got some questions of me."

OOC: Edited typo.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:27, Sun 04 Aug 2013.

In reply to Jake Richardson (msg # 40):

Judge Ledbetter, like all of the men assembled in the Association building, listens attentively to the rifleman's account, occasionally making a note. He nods, returning his attention to Vickers when Jake concludes.

"Mr. Vickers, would you care to make a statement at this time?"

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 41):

Weasel takes a deep breath. Like Jake, he fidgets, seeming more than a mite nervous, but after a moment he speaks.

"Judge, I reckoned it happened pert near the way Richardson said. I was away from the camp, relievin' myself when the dust-up started. Kirbee told me he wanted to bushwack them fellers; I told him no sir." He takes another breath before continuing.

"Like Richardson, I didn't see what started it all, but I seen Trayne and Kirbee firin' their hoglegs and Richardson and Beauregard joining in with carbines. I was s'prised as anyone. I panicked, is all. Fearin' for my life, I jumped on the nearest horse. I ain't no cavalryman. In the night, I weren't sure which one was the one that Kirbee and I hired for the night, I just knew I had to get clear of the fuss or maybe end up full of holes like Kirbee."

I ain't never meant to steal no one's horse. I was just meanin' to save my skin. I was ridin' straight back towards town, towards Pickett Jail. I meant to surrender the horse to Deputy Mansfield or whoever was on the porch. Them fellers caught up and I figured that horse was played out. I didn't want to kill it, so I gave up, hoping they wouldn't shoot me on the spot. I'm grateful they didn't. I took that horse in a moment of fear, that I own up to. But I ain't never meant to steal it."

In reply to Vickers (msg # 42):

As he did when Jake spoke, the Judge listens attentively, making a note here and there. He glances at the two parties. He tugs at his goatee and makes another note.

"Mr. Richardson," he begins, measuring his words. "Do you wish to comment further on Mr. Vicker's statements?"

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 43):

Jake scowled at Vickers as the other man spoke. When the judge asked the rifleman whether he would like to comment on Vickers' statement, Jake nodded. "Yes sir. That I would."

"That sumbitch is a liar as well as a hoss thief," he began.

"He jest now said that he was surprised as anyone when Kirbee made his move, an' the dust-up started. But as he also said that he knowed good an' well that Kirbee was plannin' on robbin' bushwhackin' us, so he couldn't have been all that surprised when the lead started flyin'."

"An' did he do the right thing an' take one of us aside ahead of time an' warn us of what was comin'? No sir, he didn't -- an' that was with a lawman, Deputy Beauregard, ridin' right alongside him all durin' the day, which woulda been the perfect opportunity. It's just a lucky thing that my pards an' me was right gun-handy ourselves, an' was able to defend ourselves -- no thanks to Weasel, who kept his mouth shut, 'stead of speakin' up."

"An' once the dust-up started, did Weasel leave his own hogleg holstered an' stay out of it, like an innocent man should? No sir, that warn't what he done a-tall. He drew it an' fired a round into the camp -- most likely at Cole Trayne, I'll wager -- he admitted to firin' at us when he was caught, from what my pards tole me later. An' he also shot Cole's dog, Jack."

Jake paused for a moment, still scowling at Vickers. "An' as far as him gettin' confused in the dark as to which hoss was his, an' his just happenin' to pick out one that warn't his, that's a lie, as well. Kirbee an' him had rode double all day on a hoss. But what he didn't want to tell you was that they was ridin' a big ol' draft hoss."

"Now, dark or not -- an' remember, this warn't no tee-total, inside-of-a-cave dark, no sir, 'cause there was starlight an' moonlight overhead -- any man that can tell the north end of a horse from the south end oughtta be able to tell a draft hoss from a regular ridin' hoss. Well, sir, Weasel knowed good an' well that he wouldn't stand a snowball's chance in hell of gettin' away ridin' on his own big an' slow draft hoss, so he picked out a faster one, one he knowed good an' well warn't his. That's hoss thievery right thaere, yer Honor."

OOC: Edited to more accurately follow Vickers' wording, and to correct misspelling.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:24, Sun 04 Aug 2013.

In reply to Jake Richardson (msg # 44):

Jake's speech elicits some audible reactions from the gallery, although Weasel seems unaffected. The Judge, whose face might be carved out of oak, tugs on his whiskers while he listens. Near the conclusion, Rojas whispers to his client.

The Mexican is still whispering when Jake concludes. The Judge turns his attention again to the defendant. "Mr. Vickers? Counsel?" he prompts.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 45):

Senor Rojas breaks away from his client's ear.

"Your honor, we have nothing more to say at this time, except to remind the court that Mr. Richardson's opinion in certain matters does not constitute fact. We ask that the court determine whether a trial is warranted for the charge brought against Mr. Vickers, without further ado."

In reply to Rojas (msg # 46):

The Judge's eyes sweep the men gathered at the Association office. A few of the men had found it hard to keep their opinions to themselves, and though none had been inappropriately vocal, the Judge's severe look made it clear that he expected a specific level of decorum.

"Mr. Rojas," says Ledbetter, "so it shall be." He faces Vickers, pausing for a moment to ensure he had the man's attention. "Willard Vickers, the court agrees with the prosecution; there is adequate evidence for this complaint to move forward. The seriousness of the charge entitles you to a trial before your peers." He glances down at his paperwork and then addresses both the prosecution and the accused.

"I am settin' a trial date of one week from today, Wednesday, February seventh, eighteen-hundred-seventy-seven." Judge Ledbetter looks to his clerk, who nods and continues his constant note-taking.

"Now, on to the question of custody. Mr. Caudell, I understand that Mr. Vickers has served a night in jail and was then released on his own recognizance. What is the county's position at this time?"

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 47):

The prosecutor and cattleman stands. "We see no need for custody. Mr. Vickers has shown good faith by appearing this morning and expect he will remain in Shackleford county to stand trial."

In reply to John Caudell (msg # 48):

Judge Ledbetter nods. "Mr. Vickers, you are ordered to report to the county courthouse in Albany a week hence."

The Judge bangs his gavel and asks for the next case. Men in the gallery, can't help but murmur and comment on the Judge's ruling.

OOC: Pausing here so PCs may make narrative posts, or speak to each other briefly, etc.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:42, Sun 04 Aug 2013.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 49):


Jake continued to scowl at Vickers, and his glare now took in the man's counsel, as well. He was within an inch of stalking over and giving Rojas an earful, but Judge Ledbetter's judicial temperament and no-nonsense attitude had made an impression on the rifleman.

So he kept his thoughts to himself, but he did not spare the Mexican. What the hell? Rojas, I surely had thunk better of you. I wouldn't've thought you'd turn against them who considered you a friend, just so you could serve as a flannel-mouth for that sumbitch Vickers, an' try to wiggle-worm him outta what he surely deserves.

Put into a foul mood by what he viewed as the Mexican's double-dealing, Jake sighed heavily and stalked back to his seat on the bench.

In reply to Jake Richardson (msg # 50):

ENS watched the proceedings attentively. He was impressed with Jake's rebuttal, which he felt summed up Weasel's transgressions effectively.

OOC: The Judge never said if ENS got a seat next to anyone, so I'm assuming he did not.

Boasting a height of six-feet four-inches gives a man a number of advantages in mundane situations. Randy can tower over men others find difficult to see around. The Cattleman's Association is no exception to this advantage for the big man as he stands on the porch and watches through the open windows.

Sure Mr. Big'un arrived late to the hearings, but he was out late too. He didn't want to arrive late, just like he didn't want to go to Jameson's. Those are two happenings that can't be undone, no matter if he wished it or not--he didn't, if you were of a mind to know.

Still, he missed the hearing he came to see. He's just going to have to hear about it from the boys when they gather to chew the fat. Randy could ask one of the other gents standing around the porch the happenings of the hearing. He figures two things will definitely happen, however. First, he knows the fellow recounting the proceedings will pump opinion in it and mess the whole damned thing up. And second, the Buffalo would be put in a position of telling his truth or a lie--and lying to the other Buffaloes just isn't in the cards.

No, he'll wait here until he sees a friendly face.

Travis takes in the atmosphere of the court.  Seems properly run and fair-minded.  Too bad he thinks when pondering the slight annoyance that he has no intention to submit himself to the justice decided by this court. It would be nice if he could trust a court to judge him. That would be a fine place where a man wouldn't have to wear four pistols and a Derringer to court.

Oh, he'll stay for the theater of the judge and gavel. The honest folks of the Flat need to feel civilization forming out here on the frontier. Maybe he can contribute to their belief that the chaos is ebbing and order is becoming the norm.  Travis however will never make the mistake that young Vickers has.  This is the west and it is ruled by men and not by laws.  Vickers has decided that there are men who can and will decide his fate. Good men, honest men, but men never the less. Travis has decided just the opposite.  There are no men who he will allow to imprison him.   He may say "not guilty" and "yes your honor" "no your honor" but Travis is just trading pleasantries today for headaches tomorrow.  He hopes it won't come to that, he doesn't want to have to kill Mangy or any other Tin Star or posse rider.

After a brief interlude that witnessed Jake and Vickers taking their seats, the clerk scribbling notes and the Judge leafing through his stack of papers, the clerk calls the next case.

Travis Sunday is called.

Senor Rojas, who remains standing, turns his eyes toward the rear of the gallery, where the gunfighter had settled himself before most of the other arrivals. The gathered men follow the lead of the Mexican, turning to watch as Sunday approaches the bench. Rojas, as he did with both Carter and Vickers, joins the accused.

The clerk reads the two charges: Dueling, Murder in the First Degree.

The Judge raises his eyes from his papers to face Sunday.

"Mr. Sunday, do you understand the charges brought against you?"

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 54):

Jake had barely gotten settled into his seat before things moved along to Travis Sunday's case. The rifleman frowned when he heard the charges that were called out against his pard.

Well, daymn. What the hell's wrong with this place? They let horse-thieves walk the streets, fancy as you please, whilst a man who took part in a fair, man-to-man gunfight with both parties ready, willin' an' able, gets hisself charged with murder.

Upon hearing this new case called and worse still charges against he friend and personal savior, Randy pushes his way into the gathering hall. He attempts to be polite, but only just.

This courtroom, or kangaroo court better yet, is less fortunate that the former pugilist isn't heeled. This fighter has proven more lethal with his hands than his irons.

He continues to press forward as far as he is able.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 54):

Travis touches Rojas on the arm indicating he'd like to speak.

Travis has a 15 Charisma an easy manner and was generally well liked.  His oratory skills were unrefined but as long as he was truthful and to the point folks gave him the benefit of the doubt more often than not.  He smiled, not so broadly to impugn the court with a lack of seriousness but a happy to be here, lets get to business attitude.

Your honor, I don't recall being arrested or charged with any crime. Perhaps that was a courtesy, for which I thank the Sherriff's office. I was asked to attend these proceedings to answer questions about what happened yesterday in the hopes that things would go no further and yours and the good citizens time could be preserved. I was advised that having counsel was appropriate.  As a former officer of the law I know

Travis looks back to the crowd

when told to bring a lawyer, I bring a lawyer.

Travis hopes to elicit a chuckle or two and some sympathy from the crowd by emphasizing in a light and exasperated tone "I bring a lawyer" as if it were an unwanted demand from his wife that he knew he needed to comply with, like "when my wife says be nice to my mother, I'm nice to her mother.

He looks back to the Judge and adopts a somber countenance,

To answer your question...

he waits a beat then as if acknowledging a tragic occurrence but without a hint of guilt, shame or apology he says

I know why I'm here.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 57):

Judge Ledbetter listens to Sunday's statement, as do the assembled onlookers. Travis does indeed elicit a chuckle or two from some men in the gallery, but for the most part the men remain mindful of the tone set by Judge Ledbetter.

Randy Oldman, who had forced himself into the Association office against little resistance from the men he displaced, stops in time to avoid bursting into the space currently occupied by those involved directly in the proceedings--that is, before he stood alongside Travis Sunday and put himself square into spotlight, as it were. He finds himself close to the two deputies.

When Travis Sunday completed his introductory statement, the Judge, without so much as a raised eyebrow, addresses him again.

"As you say, Mr. Sunday. Let us get to the questions. How do you plead to the charges?"

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 58):

I was serious before.  I don't know the charges.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 59):

Ledbetter's eyes narrow as he regards Travis Sunday. "The clerk read the charges against you. The prosecutor has filed charges of Dueling, and Murder in the First Degree for the death of Myles Keogh. How do you plead, Mr. Sunday?"

Having arrived so near the deputies, Randy decides to get one's attention.

"JEB, JEB. What the hell'd you do this time?" He forces the whisper to ensure Beauregard can hear him. "Did you get kicked in the head, man?"

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 60):

Well I plead not guilty and is my right I'd like to know who my accuser is?

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 62):

Judge Ledbetter remains stoic. "The State of Texas, Mr. Sunday." He pauses. "Now, you do have the right to confront any witnesses that the state decides to call, iffin' this case proceeds to trial. I suspect that is the right to which you refer, namely the sixth amendment to the Constitution."

He clears his throat and takes a sip of water before continuing. "Having submitted your plea, Mr. Sunday," he says, glancing at the clerk to ensure the plea was heard and duly recorded, "do you wish to make a statement at this time?"

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 63):

Sure let's wrap this up now.   Ask the Deputy Sheriff if I dueled with or murdered anyone.

In reply to Randy Oldman (msg # 61):

JEB's gaze remains fixed on the proceedings as he whispers back,

Now is not the time, Randy.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 64):

"Mr. Sunday, I will ask you that question. Did you engage in a duel with Myles Keogh?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:22, Thu 08 Aug 2013.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 66):

No sir I did not.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 67):

"Did you engage in a gunfight with Myles Keogh?"

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 65):

"You're a addle-headed traitor. I guess you wanna wait 'til after the gallows. I ain't waitin' that long. My friend's on trial and you got sumpin' to do with it, I'm certain." Randy's whisper trails off with his retraining of attention to the proceedings.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 68):

We exchanged gunfire.  It would not describe it as a "gunfight." That has certain connotations with which I disagree.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:35, Thu 08 Aug 2013.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 70):

"Did you kill Myles Keogh in that exchange of gunfire, Mr. Sunday?"

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 71):

I did in self defense.  But your honor I've never killed a man that didn't need killing.  Ask Vickers.  I was the one who rode him down and offered him a chance to surrender.  From where I was sitting he was an armed horse thief who had shot at my friends, I was alone with him, it was night and no one would ever have known what happened but he's still alive.

Cole discretely glances about, looking for the men who wagered on the gun fight.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 72):

Judge Ledbetter makes a note; the pause in the proceedings lingers for a moment as he reads something from the papers before him. He raises his eyes and looks toward the two deputies.

"Deputy Mansfield and Deputy Beauregard, please approach." Without waiting for a response, the judge continues, addressing the deputies directly as the men face the bench.

"The prosecutor's filing indicates you both agreed that a duel took place between Travis Sunday and Myles Keogh, after said parties voluntarily walked to a ridge outside of town, made declarations and faced off. Is that accurate?"

In reply to Cole Trayne (msg # 73):

Cole has already seen the hunters that accompanied the group that went to the ridge. The two that wagered sit together on one of the benches. Marino sits on the same bench as Jake Richardson.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 74):

Mangy Mansfield, with his fetid presence offending the noses of everyone in the cramped gathering, turns his head to JEB, deferring to the new deputy.

In reply to Mangy Mansfield (msg # 76):

"Tell your traitor's tale," Randy breathes at JEB again.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 75):

While glancing at the men who wagered on their friend's ability with a gun, Cole tries to determine if the men are surprised at the direction these proceedings had taken or if they had expected this.

Afterwards, he discretely glances about looking for the woman Travis had rescued from harm.

In reply to Cole Trayne (msg # 78):

Cole sees absolutely no women in attendance. Nor should he find reason to be surprised by that fact.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 74):

I misspoke your honor. Since I was not present at the event in question, you will have to rely on eyewitness testimony to determine the appropriate delineation.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 80):

Judge Ledbetter regards Deputy Beauregard with a look as impenetrable as Texas granite.

"Deputy, it is your duty to gather testimony from the eye witnesses." His eyes move to the paper he holds in his left hand. "In fact, the prosecutor's filin' notes that you, Deputy Beauregard, interviewed all of the witnesses. And the conclusion, I am lead to understand," he says, glancing again at the paper, "was that both you and Deputy Mansfield agreed on the report delivered to the prosecutor. Now, some twelve hours later, you say you 'mis-spoke'?"

Ledbetter returns his gaze to Beauregard. "Explain yourself, Deputy."
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:47, Sat 10 Aug 2013.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 81):

 Alright then. Where I come from "se battre en duel" occurs between gentlemen of high birth or office. Neither of the combatants fit that description. It was a gunfight, your Honor.  In my interviews of the witnesses I have determined that Myles Keough threatened the life of Travis Sunday and that Mr. Sunday defended himself. My professional conclusion from the facts of the case is justifiable homicide in the act of self defense.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 82):

Before Judge Ledbetter, or anyone else in the courtroom, can respond Johnny Marino stands and speaks.

"That's a bald-faced lie," he shouts.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 11:01, Sun 11 Aug 2013.

In reply to Johnny Marino (msg # 83):

Judge Ledbetter turns his attention to Marino. Remaining stoic, he addresses Marino. "Sit down, sir. If you are involved, you will have a chance to make a statement, at the appropriate time."

Ledbetter now turns his attention to Deputy Mansfield, who has stood next to JEB, shaking his head. "I take it you disagree, Deputy Mansfield?"

EDIT: set color text on speech
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:26, Sun 11 Aug 2013.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 84):

Mansfield glances between the Judge and the Deputy. "Well, yer honor, that ain't what we told Mr. Caudell last night. Beauregard never once said this was self-defense. He called it a duel last night, and that's what it was. He also jest called it a gunfight, which Sunday said he ain't fond of, but which is damned sure what it was. A gunfight 'tween to men, who both chose to do it."

He pauses, and then continues as Judge Ledbetter waits.

"The way I see it, either Keogh or Sunday coulda' walked away. Norman and Jones said they walked pert near a mile out of town, peaceful-like, 'fore them two squared off and drew hoglegs. That ain't self-defense. That's pre-meditation. And I kept my mouth shut on another matter so far, but now I gotta say my piece. Beauregard and Sunday is old pards. I reckon the deputy is jest protectin' his pard, facts be damned."

"Yer honor, my thinking is that there are only three witnesses what can be trusted in this matter. Ben Norman, Alfred Jones and Whit Hubbard. The others is either pards of Sunday or pards of Keogh. Now, Mr. Hubbard weren't at the duel, but he was there at Doney's when this fuss started. Norman and Jones, they don't tie to none of these men. Hearin' what I jest heard, I reckon the deputy is right about one thing, yer honor. It's best iffin you hear what those two men have to say about all of this and make yer rulin'."

OOC: Pausing here in case any PC wants to make a flavor post, or a verbal outburst such as that made by Johnny Marino.

In reply to Mangy Mansfield (msg # 85):

I was there and will tell you what happened and why.  I think it'll clear the confusion.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 87):

"Mr. Sunday, I intend to hear what the witnesses have to say, at this time; however," says Judge Ledbetter, who glances back to the deputies, "I will conduct that in a manner of my choosin'."

Ledbetter turns to the clerk. "My apologies Mr. Brent, but I am afraid I will require you to take notes in some detail for the rest of this proceedin'." The clerk nods.

His eyes sweeping the men assembled, the Judge speaks to everyone. "Each man who witnessed the gunfight between Myles Keogh and Travis Sunday, please stand and wait for me to address you, directly."

After the men stand, the Judge looks to each one, saying the same thing to each one.

"State your name, and your relationship with Myles Keogh and Travis Sunday."

OOC: The Judge is pausing to allow posts from each of PCs involved. In the interest of time, it matters not in which order the PCs respond.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 88):

Cole stands deliberately, yet slowly.

Cole Trayne, yer honor. Travis is an old, and right honorable friend. Only know Keogh by reputation.

As he speaks the last part, the expression on his face subtly shows his disdain at said reputation.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 88):

The hunter who carried the Keogh's body, with the help of Professor Ringgenberg, stands.

"Giancarlo Marino. Myles was my amigo, until Sunday killed him. I had heard of a gunslinger named Travis Sunday, had no history with him until yesterday."

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 88):

Jake had considered jumping up and shouting out something in response when the hunter -- damned if Jake could remember his name -- called JEB a liar. But his impression was that it wouldn't have impressed Judge Ledbetter, and, in fact, it might even have influenced the judge to discount his testimony in some regard. So, as difficult as it was, he sat and kept his mouth shut.

I sure as hell don't see the problem regardin' a fair fight betwixt two growed men, both of whom was ready, willin', an' able. They both knowed good an' well what they was gettin' into, an' both accepted the risk of gettin' thaereselves shot. An' Travis shot Keogh, sure enough, but that damned sure don't make it murder. It ain't like he back-shot him, or nuthin' like that. 'Twas a fair fight, with both men havin' an' equal chance to gun down the other. Now, what in hell is wrong with that, I ask you?

Jake rose to his feet when Judge Ledbetter called for each man who had witnessed the gunfight to stand. When the judge looked at him, Jake said, "Jake Richardson, yer Honor -- jest the same as I was a few minutes ago. I saw the fight, an' also what happened in Doney's Saloon aforehand. I ain't never laid eyes on Miles Keogh afore yesterday, yer Honor. I rode with Travis Sunday afore, an' far as I'm concerned, he's my pard."

The ex-Wells Fargo man paused for a moment, and stared hard at Mangy Mansfield. "But that won't keep me from tellin' ye what I saw an' heard, an' I don't much care for Deppity Mansfield yonder implicatin' that my word cain't be trusted."

In reply to Jake Richardson (msg # 91):

ENS stands, hat in hand, and waits until the Judge looks to him.

Professor ENS Ringgenberg you honor. I have known Mr. Sunday and his friends here for less than a week, but I have been working closely with them during that time. I have never met Mr. Keogh.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 88):

"Ben Norman, sir. I ain't never seen nor heard o'Travis Sunday 'till yesterday. Seen Keogh in the saloons a time or three, ain't never talked to him," says the bearded hunter that spat near Cole Trayne.

EDIT: Fixed this and the next message for a factual error.
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:42, Mon 12 Aug 2013.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 88):

"Alfred Jones. No ties to none of 'em." says the bearded hunter that spat near Cole Trayne.
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:40, Mon 12 Aug 2013.

Ledbetter makes a quick note when each man speaks; meanwhile the clerk by the name of Brent scrawls furiously.

"Men, I am not seekin' a statement from anyone, at this time. I intend to establish, as best we can, a few facts. I would be grateful for a yes or no answer from each of you. If in fact you cannot answer because you did not witness the point in question, then kindly say that you do not know."

"Did Keogh and Sunday voluntarily walk a mile--or whatever the exact distance might have been--to a ridge after they had an  encounter at Doney's?"

OOC: Again, the order of the answers doesn't matter. Jake, Cole and ENS should post an answer when they see this message.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 95):

Cole gazes at the the judge.

That is true, your honor.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 95):

"Yep, no more'n three-quarters of a mile," says Jones.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 95):

"Yes, sir." says Norman.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 95):

Jake nodded in response to the judge's question. "Yes, sir -- when Travis an' Keogh went outside of Doney's, Deppity Beauregard tole 'em that he didn't want no gunfightin' in the streets, an' if they felt the need to go at each other, to take it outside uv town."

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 95):

"Yes, that is true," says Marino.

In reply to Johnny Marino (msg # 100):

ENS also nods at the question.

I did not see the entire altercation in the saloon, but yes, they both voluntarily walked over the ridge.

Ledbetter leans forward, tugs at his goatee and nods as he listens to each man. Once all six men have responded, Ledbetter sits up straight and surveys those gathered.

"Thank you. Somethin' to which we all agree. I shall count that as progress." He cups his chin for a moment and then speaks again to the witnesses.

"Next questions. Again I ask for a short yes or no or do not know, for each part of my query." Judge Ledbetter pauses, pursing his lips in what would qualify as an emotive expression in contrast to his hardened visage thus far during the morning's hearings. "As a few of you have just done, you may add a brief comment if it is specific to the questions at hand."

"Once at the ridge, did both Keogh and Sunday face each other, voluntarily, with intent to engage in a gunfight? And did both men have ample opportunity to withdraw, voluntarily, before they ever faced off?"

OOC: The order of answers is still not important. Please post when you read Ledbetter's question.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 102):

Travis leans over to Rojas as Ledbetter strokes his goatee. Quietly so he cannot be overheard he says.

OK here you go.  I came to the flat to be in a posse to bring the James-Younger gang to justice.  I was attacked and apprehended a suspected horse thief and accessory to attempted murder.  I was on a posse last night to bring another murder suspect to justice and when I protected the virginity of a flower of texas I was marked for murder by Myles Keogh and when given a chance for a fair fight after Myles Keough called me out while I was minding my business, instead of the inevitable rifle shot in the back I took it.  There was no duel and no chance that one of us would not end up dead.  Any declarations made by me were spoken to give me any advantage I could.  It's no different than faking a jab before coming in with an uppercut.  Then add that the Deputy in Charge has already declared me to be innocent.

Get that in right now before he gets to this declaration nonsense.  Make sure the townsfolk can hear it.  Take the contempt fine of you have to.  I'll pay up to $20.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 103):

Rojas replies, in the same whisper. "That would not be wise, senor, but I will do it if you insist."

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 102):

"Yessir, they both made a choice to face-off. I reckon either of 'em could'a backed-out anytime."

OOC: The time it takes for Travis to speak to Rojas leaves time for the men to answer Ledbetter's questions. Jake, Cole and ENS should answer the latest questions.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 102):

In a very measured tone, the wrangler responds.

Yes, your honor, thanks to JEB here both men had plenty of time to reconsider and withdraw.  In my experience, if two men will walk a mile, and still stand opposite one another, each has reason to believe the other means business.

What happens after can be no surprise to any right thinking man.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 102):

Jake listened to the judge's next round of questions, and the two responses. "I'd say 'yes' to both of yer questions, yer Honor," he replied.

In reply to Rojas (msg # 104):

I insist.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 102):

Ben Norman shrugs. "Nobody made nobody do nothin', iffin that's what you mean, Judge."

In reply to Ben Norman (msg # 110):

ENS sees Travis talking to Rojas, but when it comes to his turn, he answers.

I too would answer 'yes' to both questions.

Before Judge Ledbetter can move on, Rojas interjects.

"Your honor, now that you have established these basic facts, I have additional information that must be presented at this time . . . if it pleases you, of course."

In reply to Rojas (msg # 112):

Ledbetter turns his attention to Rojas. "I was not finished, Mr. Rojas, but so be it."

He turns to the witnesses. "Please take your seats for the moment," he states, before turning again to Rojas. "Proceed."

OOC: As a point of clarification, Cole was never seated. When he and JEB arrived, there was no place left to sit (msg 24).

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 113):

The Mexican takes a deep breath and begins. He leaves no room for interruption, unless someone attempts to shout him down.

"Your honor, a number of mitigating circumstances must be considered. Mr. Sunday came here to The Flat as a member of a posse seeking to bring the James-Younger gang to justice. Since arriving, he has been attacked by locals, he has apprehended an alleged horse thief, and just last night he was on a posse to bring in another murder suspect. He protected the virginity of a young flower of Texas, and when he did so, he became a marked man -- marked by Myles Keogh himself. When called out by Keogh, for a fair fight, he accepted, rather than take a bullet in his back, which he knew was the inevitable alternative. There was no duel. There was no chance that either man would not end up dead. Any declarations he made were just talk--a way to gain an advantage, as a bare-knuckled fighter would jab before he punched. Additionally, and most importantly, the investigating Deputy here has already declared him innocent of these charges."

In reply to Rojas (msg # 114):

Travis puts his hands on Rojas' shoulder.  Very solemnly with gratitude....

Thank you my friend.  And thank you for not mentioning the name of the young woman who Keogh was going to rape.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 115):

Unable to contain himself, Johnny Marino stands and shouts. "Travis Sunday is a lying dog! Keogh never raped any woman."

The stoic Judge had listened to Rojas' speech. Ledbetter was about to speak himself, with little indication in his visage or his posture in regard to what he thought of the Mexican's words, but Travis Sunday pre-empted that action.

Now that Marino has voiced his opinion, the Judge bangs his gavel, three times, with a certain sense of precision. "I will have order in this hearin'. Sit down, Mr. Marino."

Judge Ledbetter now returns his attention to the Rojas and Sunday. "Mr. Rojas and Mr. Sunday, the mitigatin' circumstances are noted."

"Mr. Sunday, how long was it between your defense of this unnamed innocent, and the gunfight on the ridge?"

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 117):

Let's see I was speaking to Caretaker Jefferson down at the Church.  What time was that?  He and I saw a pair of Hunters go into Doney's saloon.  It was too early for John Barleycorn and he told me he had a bad feeling about them,  I decided to take make sure everything was in Apple Pie order and  then I heard the voices and I found two young hunters and a cute-as-a-button young lady on the left side of the room. One of the hunters had his back to me, as he had cornered the girl who had her back to the wall The second hunter stood alongside facing me, holding a rifle. He said

"The saloon is closed,"

We had a mexican standoff for a couple heartbeats; Fred and Keogh  and me.  Then Whit Hubbard came in, they accepted the better part of valor and left.

I guess that was around between 9 and 10 o'clock.

Then it started raining, I found some vittles and encountered Mr. Keogh afterwards at Doneys.  He told me to mind my own business.  I told him to keep his paws off the barmaid, he called me out and was dead maybe 5 minutes later.

We'll say 2:00? so to answer your question maybe 4 to 5 hours.


OOC: Actualy it was 24 August to 2 December, but 100 days wouldn't make sense to Ledbetter.  I say that because I needed to reread the threads.  I believe everything I said is true.  I leave it to the judge to correct me if I made a mistake in fact.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 118):

When Sunday concludes his long-winded answer, Ledbetter glances at the clerk. "Did you trap all of that, Mr. Brent?" Seeing the clerk nod, the Judge scans the crowd and finds the prosecutor, John Caudell.

"I believe I have heard enough. Mr. Caudell, am I right to presume, from your silence since Deputy Beauregard's recantin' of his original report, that you stand by the charges brought against Mr. Travis Sunday?"

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 119):

John Caudell stands. "Yes, your honor."

In reply to John Caudell (msg # 120):

Ledbetter returns his attention to Travis Sunday.

"Mr. Sunday, the court agrees with the prosecution; there is sufficient cause for this case to move to trial. The seriousness of this charge entitles you to a trial before your peers. You may of course pursue your claims of self-defense before a jury, and the state will shoulder the burden of proof in regard to the charges."

"I am settin' a trial date of one week from today, Wednesday, February seventh, eighteen-hundred-seventy-seven." As he has done a number of times, Ledbetter glances towards Mr. Brent and then speaks again to the prosecutor.

"Mr. Caudell, what is the prosecution's position on the question of custody at this time?"

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 121):

Caudell responds without delay. "Mr. Sunday kept his word to attend today's hearing. I would be satisfied with his word to attend trial."

In reply to John Caudell (msg # 122):

Judge Ledbetter looks again towards Travis Sunday. "Mr. Sunday, do we have your word that you will report to the Albany courthouse one week hence to stand trial?"

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 123):

Where's Albany Court House? He wonders.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:31, Wed 14 Aug 2013.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 124):

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 124):

"Albany is the county seat of Shackelford, Mr. Sunday. Fifteen miles south. Do we have your word?"

----------------------

OOC: http://www.doghouserules.net/d...ort_Griffin_Area.pdf

"Your honor, judge," Randy Oldman pipes up, "'scuse me, sir."

The big oaf scooches out of the nook behind the deputies he, well, 'made' for himself. In doing so, he decides to act it up like he does on stage and trip a little*--again, just acting. He hopes this will endear him to the gallery a little more.

07:17, Today: Randy Oldman rolled 13 using 1d20+5. Perform (Act).
07:23, Today: Randy Oldman rolled 4 using 1d6. AP - Perform Skill.


"I don't mean to disrespect you, sir, but I got to say my peace before you close the book on the hearing. May I tell you 'bout the man you been all set to give some consequence all along? I hope the folks around would like to hear my recountings 'bout this man what handled the scourge name Keogh."


OOC: I rolled the Perform skill during composition of post. It had no effect on how the narrative. I don't know how a 17 will play.
*e.g. - Jerry Lewis, Dick van Dyke, et al.

Edit: green
This message was last edited by the player at 14:11, Wed 14 Aug 2013.

In reply to Randy Oldman (msg # 126):

Jake looked on with interest as Mr. Big'un, as he seemed to be calling himself these days, made an effort to get involved in the proceedings.

Wonder how ol' Judge Stone-Face is gonna take to that? An' what in hell is a scurge, any damned way? Wish the Perfesser was close by, he's a wonder when it comes to de-syferin' odd words an' such.

In reply to Randy Oldman (msg # 126):

Travis smiles and looks at his big Pardner.

Well this should be interesting.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 128):

Ledbetter turns to address Randy Oldman. "Sir, you have interrupted an important moment in this hearin'."

Turning back to Travis Sunday, Judge Ledbetter repeats himself. "Mr. Sunday, do we have your word?"

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 129):

Your honor, if I am to be tried by my peers then let it be here in the Flat.  I'll stipulate to every fact both sides can make a statement and 12 good citizens can decide my fate.  We'll be done in a half an hour tops. 

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 130):

"All trials are held in the county courthouse in Albany, Mr. Sunday. Let me make myself clear. You are ordered to report to the county courthouse in Albany, Texas, on Wednesday, February seventh, eigthteen-hundred-seventy-seven, to stand trial. You will be released from custody between now and the trial date, if you give your word that you will attend, as ordered."

Ledbetter pauses. "If you refuse to give your word, I will impose bail at an appropriate amount."

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 131):

I give you my word.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 132):

ENS didn't realize that he was holding his breath while this little drama played out, but after Travis gave his word, ENS gave out a barely audible "whew!" noise.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 132):

"Thank you, Mr. Sunday," says Ledbetter. The Judge returns his eyes to his paperwork, makes a note and then glances at the clerk named Brent.

"Now, sir," he continues, facing Randy Oldman, "today's proceedin's are coming to a close. I have an inklin' that you are not the only man here with a piece to speak." Judge Ledbetter's narrow eyes sweep the ersatz court room yet again.

"And so I will listen to a brief statement from anyone who steps up; however, if your objective is to praise Mr. Sunday's ethical and moral qualities, I would ask that you save your words for his trial. Mr. Rojas has already put forth his mitigatin' circumstances . . . and the purpose of this hearin' has been duly met. The facts are sufficient for a trial; it is now up to a jury to decide whether the charges are just."

"Please state your name, sir, and have your say."

OOC: Any PC who wants to make a statement should do so; as before, the order matters not.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 134):

Jake shook his head. I surely don't understand these legal goin's-on, he concluded.

Damned if I can see whaere Travis done ennything wrong -- he sure as hell didn't murder no one. Why, if I didn't know better, I'd a thunk that he backshot Keogh.

In reply to Jake Richardson (msg # 135):

Save it for the trial boys.  There's a cup of the Arbuckle waiting for us somewhere.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 136):

Johnny Marino stands. "Giancarlo Marino. Thank you, your honor, for having a fair hearing. Grazie."

EDIT: typo
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:54, Sat 17 Aug 2013.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 134):

Cole gazes at the judge, and raises his voice to be clearly heard.

Yer honor. I'm not sure I git what just happened, so I was hoping you might clear it up for me. You just said the purposes of this hearing was met. Then, what are they? Why is Travis here been being put on trial for murder?

If two men point guns at each other, how does the one who survives get charged with murder? Seems like a no-win situation. You lose, you die. You win, you hang. Either way, both men are dead. Just seems to me a matter of timin'.

In reply to Cole Trayne (msg # 138):

"Mr. Trayne, although I have no need to explain the court's rulin', I will do so, as I find it useful for the general welfare of this county to have informed residents."

Judge Ledbetter glances around the room as he continues.

"The purpose of this hearin' was to determine whether the charges brought against Mr. Sunday had merit, and whether a trial was in order. The facts indicate precisely so. It is against Texas law to kill a man. It is called homicide. Now, there are some cases where homicide can be justified, or excused. Despite Deputy Beauregard's assertion that this was justifiable, two men squarin' off against each other--voluntarily mind you--falls into neither of those cases, in my estimation."

"Either Mr. Sunday or Mr. Keogh could have walked away from this gunfight. Neither did, and now a man is dead at the hand of another man. The law must be applied; the defendant has a right to trial and he will have it. If it were Mr. Keogh who had survived the gunfight, and these same charges were brought against him, I would have determined that a trial was warranted, just the same."

Ledbetter's gaze falls upon Johnny Marino as he completes his reply.

OOC: At least one other PC is still expected to speak, as per PM. I am allowing time for that to occur.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 134):

"Randy Oldman, Mr. Big'un to some." Randy's size--height and breadth--is rather important at this point, as it will soon become apparent.

"Truth is, I was to tell you, well really you and the fine people of the Flat, of the outstanding virtue of the man, Mr. Travis Sunday." Randy steps forward. If a member of the gallery squinted just right and the sun was at the right angle, it's possible the big man might look like he's in a proper fighting stance. "But, you seen fit to call a halt to any such chance for a person to express that Mr. Sunday wasn't acting with hate or ill-will. No sir, you closed the book afore a person could try to sway your intented course to his matter.

"You gotta understand, I know Travis Sunday real well. The man saved my life. Yessir, you hear me right--he saved my life--not took it. I'd have liked you to know what transpired for you to make a mind as to who this man is. Then you could figgur what he intended with that other scoundrel and if something bad happened to good person or if a good thing happened to a bad one." The former fighter speaks up and sounds clear. His words form his positioning as he looks at his opponent's stance and posture.

The man who used to fight in San Francisco takes a few verbal jabs. Indisputably, the big guy's pissed-off, but he's holding his composure, just not his tongue during the following flurry. "What I seen here, Honor, is that what happened ain't fair for this man. Looks like you seen a big feller what had lofty praise for a fine man. But, you cut me down to size quick-like and wrote his fate afore I could ask you not to. And I ain't seen a thing like that never afore today.

"Thank you for lettin' a person make a statement now. That's all I gotta say on that account now, even if it is all too late." There's no knock out--certainly not one in the court--but maybe he scored a victory with the crowd with his fortitude for taking on a seemingly tougher foe.

In reply to Randy Oldman (msg # 140):

When the big man completes his statement, Judge Ledbetter replies.

"Mr. Oldman, your loyalty to your friend is admirable. But your perception of this hearin' is puzzlin' to me."

"It matters not whether Mr. Sunday was actin' with ill-will. It matters not whether Mr. Sunday is a good man. I have no reason to question his integrity. For that matter, as I was in agreement with the prosecutor on this point, I agreed to release Mr. Sunday from any custody between now and his trial--based solely on his word."

"I have passed no moral judgements. I have decided no one's fate. I have simply applied the law as is my responsibility."

Ledbetter pauses, briefly, before continuing. "Suppose Mr. Marino had stood and spoke on behalf of Mr. Vickers--saying Vickers was a good man who had saved his life. Should that override the facts about his case? Should I waive away the charges that Mr. Vickers stole Mr. Richardson's horse, because he had previously done something good?"

"To me, the answer is clear. No. Mr. Sunday's character is not in question. His actions are. He killed a man, by his own admission. He maintains it was in self-defense. The due process of the law will allow him to make that defense in a court of law, before a jury. The jury, as representatives of all citizens, will decide his fate. I merely determined whether the charges brought against Mr. Sunday should warrant a trial. They do."

The Judge scans the room, looking for any other man who wishes to make a statement.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 141):

"So Judge, you sayin' you'd send up to trial a six-year old boy for playin' with his daddy's gun if'n he shot'n killed his lil' sis." The fighter sends in an upper-cut.

Next, Randy steps away from the inevitable return punch. "That ain't self-defense and the lil squirt ain't had time to prove if he's a good egg or bad, so that ain't got a bearin' on his fate neither."

In reply to Randy Oldman (msg # 142):

"No, Mr. Oldman, I would not. That would be an accident. That would qualify as excusable homicide." Judge Ledbetter appears unaffected by Randy's blow.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 143):

"I'm tellin' you, if'n Travis pulled a trigger and killed a man... that was a excusable homicide, as you say.

"But, I'm guessin' I can't get you to go back and change what you had writ down. So," he draws out the vowel sound a moment. "I'll just keep the rest of my breath for my show tonight. You have yerself a fine mornin', judge."

Randy's not forfeiting the fight. Maybe he sees there's no winning or losing in this match. Maybe he sees these rules are ones with which he's not quite as familiar. Whatever the reason, the former fighter calls for a truce--he hopes it's accepted.

In reply to Randy Oldman (msg # 144):

Judge Ledbetter nods one time after Randy concludes his piece. He scans those assembled, for any others who wish to make a statement.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 145):

The man sitting next to Professor Ringgenberg, whom none of Travis Sunday's pards recognize, stands. Like many of the men in attendance, he wears a winter duster. His hat sits on the bench while he holds something in his left hand.

"Yer honor, I am Garrett Rasmin. I am not from these parts. It pleases me to see that yer town has an understanding of law and order." He pauses for no more than a heartbeat.

"'Specially in my line of work. You see, I am a bounty hunter and I have a warrant for the capture of a man named Cole Trayne, certified by the District Court in San Francisco." Rasmin holds up a document in his left hand.

"Surrender your weapons, Mr. Trayne."

OOC: PLEASE READ CAREFULLY
Everyone is flat-footed. Roll initiative and state ONE action--in a PM or private line--during the fast draw round. This might or might not end up as combat, depending on PC actions. I require the private action statements because the order of things will depend substantially on what PCs state, how they roll initiative and relative positions. If you have a good roll, assume you will act high in the order and act accordingly. If you have an average roll . . . you get the idea.

http://www.doghouserules.net/d...goin/cattlemans1.pdf

In reply to Garrett Rasmin (msg # 146):


The Wrangler calmly turns to face the stranger.

No.

In reply to Cole Trayne (msg # 147):

The bounty hunter caught Travis a bit flat-footed but his reflexes bring him back up to speed.

OOC: Travis readies an action: Draw and fire pistol If Cole is threatened or Bounty Hunter prepares to fire.

Travis Sunday rolled 31 using 1d20+11. Initiative.

In reply to Garrett Rasmin (msg # 146):

JEB swiftly steps between Cole and the bounty hunter. He places his right hand on his pistol but keeps it undrawn for the moment,  I'm Deputy James Beauregard. If you have a warrant of arrest for anyone residing in this county you go through me first.

Initiative = 24

In reply to Garrett Rasmin (msg # 146):

Jake was completely surprised by the bounty hunter's announcement that he had a warrant for Cole's "capture" . . . so much so that his jaw dropped. Luckily all of the flies in the room had already been attracted to the odiferous Mangy Mansfield, otherwise one might have flown into Jake's gaping mouth.

Cole quickly refused the demand to surrender his weapons, and JEB stepped between the two men. Jake glanced over at Judge Ledbetter.

OOC: 23:33, Today: Jake Richardson rolled 4 using 1d20+3 with rolls of 1. Initiative. <Sigh.>

In reply to Garrett Rasmin (msg # 146):

Surprises continue to mount on this day for Randy. Seems the men who've proved most loyal, most brotherly to him, have been accused of a most heinous act. Things like this could drive a man to do desperate measures.

09:21, Today: Randy Oldman rolled 17 using 1d20+2. Init.

In reply to Randy Oldman (msg # 151):

ENS was contemplating Travis's situation when this man made his statement... He is momentarily taken aback at this new twist, but once JEB speaks, he turns towards the man and sets his (i.e., ENS's) legs in case he has to grapple the man. Mine Gott! Why did I leave my gun in the hotel!

14:18, Today: E.N.S. Ringgenberg rolled 16 using 1d20+2. Initiative.

Edit to clarify his movement.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:27, Tue 20 Aug 2013.

JEB acted quicker than most of the men in the room, after Rasmin made his announcement. His attempt to squeeze between Cole and Randy, in order to interpose himself between the accused and the bounty hunter, falls short. Neither Cole nor Randy had shown any inclination to move, leaving JEB roughly ten feet away, shoulder to shoulder with his two old pards.

Cole himself answers Rasmin with a refusal, then glances around at the nearby attendees.

Mr. Big'un, living up to his stage name, remains a pillar in the crowded room. When JEB begins his move, Randy doesn't resist, and Cole moves slightly once he realizes that JEB is moving to intercept, allowing just enough room for JEB to speak to Rasmin in a clear line of sight.

Judge Ledbetter stands, putting his hand on his sidearm. In fact, numerous men in the room do the same, although no one has drawn.

OOC: Based on character actions, this is not yet a combat situation, but we will take things slow. If any PC wishes to act beyond words, please state an intended action but do not go too far. That action could be interrupted by another PC or NPC. Movement in the Association office is difficult. Only small moves will be possible; in terms of game mechanics, movement is largely limited to a 5-foot step for most.

http://www.doghouserules.net/d...goin/cattlemans2.pdf
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:28, Wed 21 Aug 2013.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 149):

"All right, deputy. I aim to do this by the book." He shakes the paper in his left hand, while his right hand rests comfortably on the grip of a holstered revolver.

"This warrant says it all. I'll hand it to you and then you two deputies can share it with the Judge."

The mephitic Mansfield takes a step closer to the wall, speaking, after Rasmin responds to JEB.

"Oldman, kindly take a step t'ward Sunday," he commands, in a firm but unthreatening voice.

In reply to Garrett Rasmin (msg # 154):

JEB steps forward to take the warrant, right hand still resting on his holstered pistol.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 156):

Cole returns his gaze solely on the bounty hunter.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 156):

Rasmin hands the document to Deputy Beauregard. "It is all in apple pie order, deputy. I would like it returned, of course, once you and the Judge have a look."

Judge Ledbetter steps from the behind the desk, taking a position alongside it. He appears about to speak; then decides against, waiting for the deputy to inspect Rasmin's document.

The prosecutor, John Caudell, takes a step to his left, as does Senor Rojas. Some of the townsfolk adjust their posture, although none really have much space in which to move.

Caudell glances down the south hall and then returns his attention to Beauregard and Rasmin.

OOC: Slight movements don't necessitate an updated map, yet. Bear in mind that a few NPCs have taken the equivalent of a 5-foot step. There is a porch out front and of course streets and other nearby buildings as the Cattleman's building is in the middle of town. I simply haven't drawn anything but the first floor on the current map, as that is all that is currently needed.

In reply to Mangy Mansfield (msg # 155):

The gargantuan guy ain't too keen on giving Rasmin a large gap to run off. The odoriferous officer instructed him to step in one direction to clear the path, but the past pugilist has a different idea.

Randy starts walking toward the hallway. He figures this will seem innocuous enough, since it accomplishes Mansfield's objective. It will achieve a different objective though--block traffic in or out.  That position will also give him ample room to build a head of steam should he want to bull rush the bounty hunter. But, that's only a contingency.

Of course the front door isn't covered, but Randy's not that big.

"Judge Ledbetter, I'd hope you'd not let a witness in your murder case leave 'til he had his time to say his peace in Sunday's trial."


edit: added dialogue
This message was last edited by the player at 13:14, Thu 22 Aug 2013.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 159):

Now that the initial surprise had worn off somewhat, Jake rose to his feet. His Spencer had been leaning on the bench beside his leg, barrel pointed towards the ceiling.

As he rose and turned to face Rasmin, who was behind him, Jake picked up the weapon by the fore-stock and shifted it into the crook of his left arm.

As of yet, he had not cocked it.

In reply to Randy Oldman (msg # 160):

When Randy speaks, ENS takes his attention from the bounty hunter. Brilliant Randy!

ENS also stands and takes a step back from the bounty hunter, then addresses the Judge.
And recall that Mr Trayne is a witness in the Vickers case as well, your Honor.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:41, Thu 22 Aug 2013.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 159):

JEB takes a few moments to skim the document. He walks over to Judge Ledbetter, hands it to him and speaks in a conversational tone, This appears to be a legitimate warrant for the arrest of Cole Trayne and his return to California.  I recommend we hold Mr Trayne in custody while we contact the District Court in San Francisco to confirm its authenticity and conduct due diligence.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 163):

Judge Ledbetter takes the document from JEB, ignoring the comments of Mr. Big'un and the professor. He reviews the warrant, quickly. "Agreed, Deputy Beauregard. I should think the matter could be resolved before sundown."

Meanwhile Randy Oldman finds that John Caudell has already moved to block the south hallway. And Deputy Mansfield stands close by, between Caudell and Trayne. Unless Randy forces himself past the prosecutor, he must stop before he reaches his intended location. Caudell, of average height, seems small compared to Randy, but the man doesn't flinch when he sees the actor approach. He stands his ground, peering to his right to watch the Judge and Beauregard.

OOC: http://www.doghouserules.net/d...goin/cattlemans3.pdf

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 164):

"I can wait a day," says Rasmin.

In reply to Garrett Rasmin (msg # 165):

Ledbetter leans to his right, reaching toward the desk just far enough to grab his gavel. He looks up. "Unless any other man has a surprise for us, I should like to adjourn."

None of the townsfolk or hunters responds.

OOC: Pausing for any PC responses, if desired. Once adjourned, the matter of Cole's custody and the pace of other PC actions is up to the players.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 166):

Travis looks over to Cole until he catches his eye.  He rolls his eyes and raises both hands chest high, elbows bent and palms out, the universal symbol of "don't worry."

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 167):

Cole returns Travis' gaze and slightly nods. For those who know him, it wouldn't be difficult to detect a hint of appreciation at his pard's show of support.

In reply to Cole Trayne (msg # 168):

Jake was a little surprised to hear JEB speak up and recommend locking Cole up in the hoosegow, even before the judge had made any kind of a statement. Reckon JEB puts his job afore sidin' with a man he's rode with . . . I ain't so damned quick to turn on family or men who's stood by me, when the chips was down, Jake thought to himself.

Now that he had a moment to think about it, he was much more concerned about Cole's situation than Travis's. He still had a hard time believing that Travis was charged with anything, and felt certain that a jury of fair men would reach the same conclusion that he had. But Cole, now . . . turning him over to a bounty hunter seemed like a pretty raw deal.

Cole was right across the aisle from Jake, and the rifleman stepped over close to his pard. "Lemme know how I can help," he said quietly to the wrangler.

In reply to Judge Ledbetter (msg # 164):

JEB walks over to Rasmin, hands him the warrant and says curtly,"come by the jailhouse tomorrow morning."

Without waiting for a response from Rasmin he approaches Cole and addresses him in a conciliatory tone, "I'm sorry Cole but you'll have to surrender your firearm and remain in my custody until we can work this out."
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 00:32, Sat 24 Aug 2013.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 170):

Being unused to such things, ENS's head is swimming with the possible implications. At some quick point he shakes his head and looks to the conclusion of this tableau.

All of this is too much to take in... I shall seek my new friends' guidance once this has concluded!

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 170):

Taking a moment to give a slight nod of appreciation to Jake, Cole turns his attention to JEB. The wrangler's expression clearly darkening, he speaks in a barely audible tone.

Does that there piece of paper say he can kill me first?

Seeing that no one else wished to make a statement, Judge Ledbetter, taps the gavel and adjourns the hearings. After gathering his papers, he steps towards the prosecutor, past Randy Oldman and down the south hall. Stopping at the door to the left, he opens and enters.

-----------

OOC: The recent PC posts occur after the gavel has sounded and the men in attendance begin to depart the Association office. PCs should feel free to post free-form.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:03, Sat 24 Aug 2013.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 170):

Rasmin takes the warrant. He tucks it into an inside pocket of his duster. "The Judge said 'before sundown.'" He shrugs as JEB turns away. The bounty hunter picks up his hat. He seems in no rush, glancing about at the men around him.

In reply to Garrett Rasmin (msg # 174):

Travis heads outside he walks a few paces and looks down the length of Griffin Avenue.  He moves to the side of the road and waits for the Bounty Hunter to emerge.

In reply to Cole Trayne (msg # 172):

JEB responds in a similarly hushed tone, "it won't come to that. We can talk outside."

Townsfolk file out of the make-shift court room after Ledbetter adjourns the hearings. Travis Sunday moves with them, as do the two hunters, Deputy Mansfield and Willard Vickers.

Senor Rojas moves to speak to John Caudell, near the desk used by Judge Ledbetter.

JEB, Cole and Jake gather near the stairwell and front door, speaking in hushed tones.

Garrett Rasmin lingers in the same spot he has been standing.

-----------

OOC: PCs control the advancement of the plot, at least for the moment.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 176):

Cole relents, ever so slightly, and responds in kind.

I've trusted you, and the boys, before. I expect that shouldn't change now.

Mr. Big'un heads out of the Cattleman's feeling somewhat defeated. This here's just shapin' up to be the worst dang day possible.

As soon as he's free of the structure, he hustles to get beside Sunday. "Travis, how 'bout walkin' with me to the Hive?"

In reply to Randy Oldman (msg # 179):

Travis cocks his hat back and puts the bottom of his right foot against the wall he is leaning on.

I'd like to chat with Mr. Rasmin when he becomes available.  You're welcome to join me.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 180):

ENS moves towards Jake, Cole, and JEB. Once he gets close, he speaks to them in a somewhat low tone.

This last hour has been dizzying to me gentlemen... what say you?

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 177):

Jake found himself standing near Cole and JEB as the courtroom cleared. As he walked out of the room, the rifleman had leaned his Spencer back against his right shoulder, the barrel pointing upwards.

He was curious as to what had led to the warrant being issued for Cole over in San Francisco, but he didn't feel comfortable prying into the other man's business. He knew that many men out here in the West had things that they had just as soon not talk about, and knew that it was generally frowned upon to stick one's nose into someone else's doings. Reckon Cole'll open up 'bout what's behind all this at some point -- or, mayhaps he won't. Either way, I ain't gonna press him on the matter.

The wrangler and the lawman were engaged in a conversation, and Jake stood silent, a little off to the side.

Edit: He turned towards the professor as the Easterner approached and addressed them. Jake shrugged his shoulders and grimaced in response to the other man's inquiry. "Iff'n ye ask me, it's shapin' up as a damned poor mornin' thus far," he responded.

OOC: Edited to add a response to ENS's IC post.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:28, Mon 26 Aug 2013.

In reply to E.N.S. Ringgenberg (msg # 181):

Gentlemen, walk with me.

JEB takes Cole's firearm and leads them out the door onto the street towards the jailhouse.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 183):

Garrett Rasmin follows JEB and his pards as they depart the Association building. He makes no attempt to hide the fact that he is following them.

JEB exits on onto Third Street and turns west towards Griffin. He sees Travis Sunday, half-way down the street, leaning against the eastern side of Cooper's Boarding House. It's the place where Cole has rented a room. Randy Oldman stands near the gunslinger. The two hunters and Mangy Mansfield are some 20 feet ahead, passing Cooper's and approaching Griffin and Third.

Rasmin turns and follows the group towards Griffin, at a distance of only three or four paces.

In reply to Garrett Rasmin (msg # 184):

ENS nods grimly at Jake's response. He follows the group without more comment, but having the bounty hunter following them raises the hairs on his neck...

NOW I really wish I had taken my gun!!

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 180):

The fighter sees the men, his former trail mates, walking down the street.

"Then lemme say two quick bits. First don't do nothing foolish yet--there's time enough for that later. Next, I'm hatchin' a plan for us and I want you to hear it afore you do any talkin' with lead."

Randy departs for the Beehive.

In reply to Garrett Rasmin (msg # 184):

JEB stops and turns to face the bounty hunter, "May I assist you Mr Rasmin?"

Weaponless, Cole turns to face the bounty hunter as JEB addresses him.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 187):

"Nope," replies the bounty hunter, stopping. "Carry on, deputy."

In reply to E.N.S. Ringgenberg (msg # 185):

Jake fell into step with ENS, perhaps a few  paces behind JEB and Cole. The separation was enough to give the lawman and the wrangler a little privacy if they desired it, but at the same time they were close enough to all confer, if the situation warranted it.

The rifleman glanced sidewise at ENS upon hearing the professor's comment about wishing that he was heeled, and shrugged. "I dunno, Perfesser. I'd be mighty leery of ventilatin' ennybody in this town. Seems that a body'll be charged with murder pretty damned quick, even if the sumbitch who ended up o'er in the boneyard was fully deservin' of what he got."

In reply to Garrett Rasmin (msg # 189):

Travis observes the awkwardness.  He raises his voice.  Friendly-like.

Mr. Rasmin.  A moment of your time please.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:50, Tue 27 Aug 2013.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 191):

The bounty hunter angles himself for a line of sight on Travis Sunday, taking a small step to his left. "I can walk and talk, Sunday. Come along."

Rasmin pauses, standing just that one step from where he was when JEB turned around.

In reply to Jake Richardson (msg # 190):

ENS starts out of his reverie when Jake speaks, realizing he must have voiced his thoughts.

Did I say that out loud? Heh, but yes, your advice is well taken Jake!

ENS then looks to the others as they talk.

In reply to Garrett Rasmin (msg # 189):

Then you will keep your distance as I'm detaining an alleged fugitive of the law. I don't want to see you closer than twenty paces.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 194):

Garrett Rasmin laughs, heartily and from his belly. Loud enough for others in the street to hear.

"This is a public thoroughfare, deputy, and I am doing nothing unlawful. Just moseying toward my destination." Like his laugh, his speech reaches a volume sufficient for others in the street to hear. There are a few other malingers after the hearings, in addition to Mangy Mansfield and the two hunters further ahead to the west.

"Is it only me, or do all these citizens need to keep a distance of twenty paces?" He gestures toward Jake, ENS, and townsfolk. "No matter, deputy. Please escort the fugitive. I will not interfere. I will wait until you are twenty paces away before I so much as breathe again."

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 194):

Travis joins Rasmin, matching him directly or 20 paces behind as he sees fit.

Do you want me to get to the point or do you prefer a bit of the John Barleycorn or arbuckle when business is done?

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 196):

The bounty hunter's voice returns to a normal conversational tone. "Business? I reckon getting straight to your point is the sensible course of action."

In reply to Garrett Rasmin (msg # 197):

Good for you.

Travis takes a few steps.

I'd like for you to walk away from this bounty.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 198):

"Is that a fact?" answers Rasmin, although it doesn't really sound like a question.

In reply to Garrett Rasmin (msg # 199):

I'd like to somehow compensate you in some manner for your troubles, but yes that is the fact of the matter.

Travis keeps walking looking forward.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 200):

"No harm in hearing you out, Sunday, but it seems fair to tell you I am unlikely to be diverted from my task. Once I take a contract I am bound to it." Rasmin continues walking with Sunday. They reach Griffin Avenue. The bounty hunter turns left, heading south.

In reply to Garrett Rasmin (msg # 201):

Travis purses his lips and nods approvingly.

I can respect that.  Unfortunately, your arrival is inopportune.  Mr. Trayne has joined a number of old friends here in the Flat to constitute a posse. We're riding after the Younger-James gang to avenge an old acquaintance and he'll be expected to participate.

OOC: The Judge, in progressing with the conversation between Rasmin and Sunday, assumes that JEB, Cole and the others continue walking toward Griffin and then onward to the jail house. If that is untrue, clarifying actions are required.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 202):

"That is none of my concern," says Rasmin, stopping in front of the laundry.

In reply to Garrett Rasmin (msg # 204):

and that sir unfortunately, is where the pleasantries must end.

Travis straightens up.   He looks Garrett in the eye. He smiles as if he were greeting an old acquaintance.  A little sparkle catches the corner of his eye.

It is your concern, because Cole Trayne will never be delivered to San Francisco on a bounty while I and any number of others have the ability to prevent it. 

Travis looks him up and down inventorying his visible weaponry and measuring the man.  A more neutral countenance adorns his face as his eyes refocus on Garrett's.

So please, figure out a way that you can pass on this and maintain your dignity.  Like I said, no one will want you to leave empty handed and no one will want to see you come to harm.  You'll have some time to think it over.  He's not going anywhere, anytime soon.

Travis tips his hat and lingers just a moment, not keen to quickly turn his back and willing to give the last word to the newcomer.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 205):

The bounty hunter seems to listen to Sunday while maintaining his watch on the other side of the thoroughfare and positioning himself at the edge of the laundry's porch. Travis found it difficult to look the man straight in the eye, at least without some maneuvering, as Rasmin keeps his eyes on the jail porch. Not to mention that he wears his hat pulled down mighty low.

"A genuine pleasure speaking with you, Sunday." His intonation could make a feller think Rasmin's mother had invented sarcasm.

As it happens, the man has a reason for keeping his attention on the jail. Deputy Mansfield is having some sort of heated discussion with Chubby Wilson when JEB and the others approach Picket Jail.

http://www.doghouserules.net/d...iews/goin/rasmin.jpg

OOC: As noted in a previous post, the Judge is assuming that JEB continues on his way to the jail. Casting this incident in general terms until other PCs catch up to Sunday and Rasmin.

Randy thinks better of wearing his finer duds to the Beehive. He figures his day's work there ought to be in his daily clothes and with his hoglegs under his arms.

To be certain he's not showing to work too early or late, the big man checks his pocket watch.

In reply to Randy Oldman (msg # 207):

Randy's pocket watch reads two minutes past 10 o'clock.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 208):

JEB leads the group of men to Pickett's Jail and approaches Mansfield to see what all the fuss is about.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 209):

Travis disengages from the soon to be deceased Mr. Rasmin and follows the gaggle.   He stops close enough to eavesdrop but not so close to interfere or join the group. He keeps his eye on the street and Rasmin.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 209):

JEB arrives at the jail porch. He and the others get there just in time to hear Chubby Wilson say "he tricked me is all."

Mansfield, seeing Beauregard approach, turns to his fellow deputy.

"Seems the Chinaman is in there with Kate. He's your problem, Beauregard."

From his chosen position across Griffin, Garrett Rasmin laughs aloud, again.

In reply to Mangy Mansfield (msg # 211):

Jake was following closely enough behind JEB and Cole to hear Mansfield's comment.

"Hunh," he grunted, then turned to ENS.

"Reckon the Chinaman has locked ever'body out, an' hisself an' Injun Kate inside. Otherwise, I don't s'pose them two would be standin' round out here." Jake nodded his head towards the two lawmen who were standing on the porch of the jail to indicate whom he meant by "them two."

"You speak the Chinaman's lingo, don't you, Perfesser?" he asked ENS.

OOC: Edit: Fixed coloration error.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:56, Thu 29 Aug 2013.

In reply to Jake Richardson (msg # 213):

ENS's face shows his sudden concern for the suspect woman...

Indeed I do Jake.

He steps forward to JEB.

I'm at your service deputy.

In reply to E.N.S. Ringgenberg (msg # 214):

Can this morning get any more fucked up?

JEB nods to Ringgenberg, "much obliged" and motions for him and Cole to follow. JEB tries the door to the jailhouse. If locked, he asks Mansfield to open it.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:28, Fri 30 Aug 2013.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 215):

JEB tries the door. The handle turns easily, but the door won't budge. It opens inward . . . it seems that something is blocking it.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 216):

JEB peers in the window to the right of the door and looks for anyone inside.

Take 10 Spot = 14

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 217):

The window shutters are closed, as they were the night before, to keep out the icy winter storm that persists here in north-central Texas.

The deputy believes he hears something from inside the jail.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 218):

JEB speaks in a raised voice, Whoever is on the other side of this door, kindly unbar it. It would be unfortunate if the big fella you know as Randy Oldman would have to bust it down.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 219):

JEB hears someone near the door. A floorboard on the inside of the jail squeaks; JEB himself has heard the creaking noise when he stepped into the jail--as has most anyone who has entered the place.

"Is that Deputy?" says a decidely Chinese voice on the other side of the door. "You come in alone."

In reply to Mr. Xu (msg # 220):

Mr. Ringgenberg will accompany me if you're agreeable. You know him and he speaks your language making it easier for us to resolve this matter.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 221):

"Yes."

JEB hears the bars being removed.

Townsfolk and visitors begin to assemble near Picket Jail, attracted by the goings-on. Loco exits the front door of the laundry, watching from the porch. The two hunters, Jones and Norman, double-back from wherever they were headed. They are joined by a few other hunters who were loitering near the saloons.

Arnie Foster appears, along with two other young boys, sidling up near Travis Sunday. A few townsfolk approach from the north, including the blacksmith and his two young boys (the rascals who threw a mud ball at Sunday). A low murmur rolls through the onlookers--a stew of speculation, wonder, rumor and truth.

In reply to Mr. Xu (msg # 222):

JEB opens the door and enters the jailhouse to be followed by Ringgneberg. While his hand does not rest on the holstered pistol, he is ready to draw at the slightest provocation. He quickly scans the room.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 223):

Travis calmly rests his back against the wall.  He looks down at young Arnie.

So what do you know Master Foster?

Cole casually moves towards the jail and takes a seat on the porch.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 225):

"I heard some things," says the barrel-chested boy.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 224):

Deputy Beauregard sees Indian Kate sitting on the one of the cell cots. Mr. Xu stands near the doorway, alert but passive.

In reply to Arnie Foster (msg # 227):

I'm buying.  Travis fishes around in his pocket.  He makes sure the clink of the coins is audible.

In reply to Cole Trayne (msg # 226):

His carbine still cradled in the crook of his left arm, Jake leaned up against the hitching-rail out in front of the jail. He gave some thought to joining Cole up on the porch of the hoosegow, but decided to stay put.

Reckon I'll stay right here. My nose'll thank me -- up yonder on the porch is too damned close to Mangy. Bein' stuck in the courtroom in close prox-simity to that smelly sumbitch was a downright gut-wrenchin' ex-perience. With any luck, the breeze out here in the street'll help out a mite by blowin' summa the stench sidewise.

OOC: Edited to add missing word.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:06, Sun 01 Sept 2013.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 228):

ENS enters with JEB and quickly looks over Mr. Xu, then Kate, trying to determine if she appears injured. He holds his tongue to allow JEB to set the tone.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 229):

Arnie puts his pudgy palm up.

It's still too early for Randy to head in for his first day's employment at the Beehive. He'd rather grab an extra couple hours of sleep and be fresh for any shenanigans at the hive. He wants to be certain his performance wear-with-all is ready for the night as well.

Arriving at the boarding house, he finds one of the owners. He asks them to wake him in no more than two hours' time. He stresses the importance of the time and how some of his income relies on arriving to work shortly before the hour of one.

In reply to E.N.S. Ringgenberg (msg # 231):

JEB casually moves to stand next to the chinaman and glances over to the woman, are you unharmed Miss Kate?

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 232):

Travis pulls his hands from his pockets.  A nickel balances on Travis' right forefinger bent into a "U." Then a quick flick of the thumb sends it spinning towards the young man.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 234):

"I am all right, deputy." He sees that she has been crying, again. She wipes her eyes.

Glancing at Mr. Xu, JEB sees that his eyes are red, showing signs that he, too, has been weeping.

"I told him everything," Kate adds.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 235):

The young entrepreneur smiles as he watches the spinning coin. He makes no attempt to catch it; instead as it reaches its apex he calls out "Heads I win, tails you lose."

The other boys laugh as if Arnie's statement were a cipher only they could understand.

"Heads," he says, picking up the coin after it landed on the cold, packed-earth of Griffin Avenue. Without a breath he spits out a litany. "I heard that you and Willard Vickers are headed to trial. I heard the Frontier House had a bang up show last night. I heard there might be a horse race after the weather clears. I heard there's a bounty hunter lookin' for Cole Trayne.  I heard that John Selman came through town last night, and that Deputy Beauregard took a posse out to Jameson's, and that Indian Kate is locked up in the calaboose. And I heard that Randy Oldman is workin' at the Beehive."

In reply to Arnie Foster (msg # 237):

A few of the nearby onlookers overhear Arnie's words. The mention of the bounty hunter and John Selman produces an obvious rippling reaction among the number of folks gathering in front of Picket Jail.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 238):

JEB's demeanor immediately softens and he places a hand on Mr Xu's shoulder, I'm sorry you had to find out this way. I intended to look for you after the hearings but you beat me to it. If there is anything I can do for you just let me know.

In reply to Arnie Foster (msg # 237):

What else did you here about John Selman?

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 239):

"Now, what?" asks Mr. Xu.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 240):

"He was at Doney's . . . ." Arnie shrugs. It is unclear to Travis whether the boy is fishin' for another coin, or if that is the extent of what the bear cub knows.

Cole and Jake can hear Mangy speaking to Chubby Wilson. The deputy doesn't bother speaking in hushed tones, nor does he speak aloud like Rasmin had done in the street. Mansfield's conversational tone is unlikely to be heard across the street; still, the two men are close enough from their respective positions to hear the Deputy speaking.

"Damnation, Chubby. It ain't Beuregard's fault. He don't know our routines. He pretends like he knows what he's doin' but a lot of it is just blow. You, Chubby, you shoulda' locked up after Beauregard left," stresses the deputy as he concludes, leaning closer to the rotund feller.

Wilson stares at a knot in the wood porch floor.

In reply to Mangy Mansfield (msg # 243):

At hearing Mangy's comment, Cole winces slightly and gazes at the jailhouse door lock.

In reply to Mr. Xu (msg # 241):

ENS looks from Kate to Mr. Xu and back again... Apparently there's some new information that I haven't learned yet...

In reply to Mr. Xu (msg # 241):

That will be for the judge to decide. And you?

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 246):

"I take Mei Ling home." Mr. Xu pauses, swallowing the lump in his throat. "It was accident. She . . . " he looks at Indian Kate, and then turns to the professor, continuing in his native tongue.

In reply to Arnie Foster (msg # 242):

Is that it?

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 248):

"I reckon." Arnie rocks back and forth on his toes and heels. Travis can tell that the boy has something to say, although this does seem to be the extent of the information he intends to impart. Finally, Master Foster spits it out.

"Why did you kill Myles Keogh?"

In reply to Randy Oldman (msg # 233):

Mrs. Owsley never stops moving, it seems. She continues to perform household chores while she listens to Randy Oldman. He found her out back scrubbing linens; now she sets herself to hanging them to dry, mumbling about the weather and how her livelihood relies on keeping things clean for her house guests--not to mention keeping them fed. Although she is never rude, she makes it clear to Randy that she is not his maidservant, telling him she will rouse him today, but that he should not expect her to coddle him day-in and day-out.

In reply to Mr. Xu (msg # 247):

ENS relays Mr. Xu's statement to JEB.

He says he believes she told the truth that it was an accident, and that she faced death with honor? He thinks she should be punished for hiding as long as she did, but not for the Mei Ling's death. He says he forgives her and that the fifty dollars will be waiting for you at the hotel.

ENS then turns back to Mr. Xu and speaks in Chinese.

In reply to Arnie Foster (msg # 249):

Truth is Arnie, that I believed that Myles Keogh was going to kill me.  Not in a gunfight, but murder me with a rifle when I couldn't defend myself. I decided to take a risk and see if things might settle down and maybe we could go our separate ways but when he called me out, it was an easy way to solve my problem.  Maybe not the best way, maybe not the clever way, but a it was a for sure way.

Travis shifts slightly taking in the hoosegow shenanigans and returning a glance to the bounty hunter periodically.

Truth is he wasn't a nice man.  I think he's hurt women before, and I think if I hadn't interrupted him earlier yesterday he would have hurt another.  I won't mourn for him.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 252):

"You knew him afore you came to The Flat?"

In reply to E.N.S. Ringgenberg (msg # 251):

Mr. Xu shrugs. "Does not matter," he replies to Professor Ringgenberg.

"I go now," he says to JEB.

In reply to Mr. Xu (msg # 254):

Before you go, kindly walk with me to tell that to the prosecutor. Your judgment will largely determine her fate.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 255):

"Yes." Mr. Xu bows slightly to both men. He waits, intending to follow the deputy.

In reply to Mr. Xu (msg # 256):

JEB nods and leaves the jail walking towards the Cattle Association building. Before leaving he asks the professor to follow and continue as translator.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:53, Thu 05 Sept 2013.

In reply to Arnie Foster (msg # 253):

I never saw him before yesterday.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 258):

Arnie Foster, obviously an astute young man, should never become a poker player. He screws up his face, pondering, it appears. Clearly, he remains puzzled by Sunday's words. He makes no attempt to disguise his lack of comprehension.

"Then how do you know he's hurt women afore?"

In reply to Arnie Foster (msg # 259):

I didn't say I know. I said I thought.  Maybe I was wrong.  He wasn't a gentleman when I first crossed his path I'll tell you that. Doesn't matter though.  Myles came after me because I shamed him or got in his way or some other fool notion got lodged in his head. He didn't recognize a dangerous situation.  He called me out.  He got himself killed.  That's the way of it.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 260):

Young Arnie rocks a mite as Travis talks. He looks like he might ask another question, but he refrains. Travis doesn't sense any judgement from the boy; Arnie simply seems powerful curious. "Okay." He pauses. "What did your pard Cole do?"

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 257):

ENS decides to let the issue drop with Mr. Xu. He follows JEB out of the jailhouse and waits for an opportunity to speak with him away from the crowd.

OOC: ENS presumes JEB will say something to the gathering before moving off to the courthouse with Mr. Xu. Along that route he intends to ask what JEB learned from Kate and tell him what he learned from the suspect knife. Should we play that out or just accept that info was transferred?

OOC: From my perspective, the transfer of information doesn't need to be played out unless the PCs want to do so. However, the question of whether JEB intends to say something to the gathering is the reason the Judge hasn't advanced. I sent a PM to JEB asking for some IC or PM follow-up in that regard. At the moment, JEB, ENS and Mr. Xu have exited the jail but the Judge is not advancing on JEB's stated walk towards the Association until JEB has followed up one way or another.

In reply to Arnie Foster (msg # 261):

Mr. Trayne hired on with a man who thought he owned the men who worked for him.  He asked Mr. Trayne to kill two of those men to set an example to the other employees.  Mr. Trayne declined, quite convincingly, by killing the him right after he had ordered the murders. The man was very powerful and had friends, so....  Mr. Trayne has had a bounty on his head ever since.

Travis looks a bit more intently at the jail but continues on.

This isn't the first time someone has tried to collect.

In reply to E.N.S. Ringgenberg (msg # 262):

JEB stops on the porch of the jailhouse, glances at Cole then Deputy Mansfield and speaks to the latter, "May I have a word in private?

They step off to the side out of earshot.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:54, Sat 07 Sept 2013.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 265):

Cole silently looks expectantly at JEB.

In reply to Cole Trayne (msg # 266):

After speaking with the deputy, JEB motions for Cole to follow him as he takes Mr Xu and Ringgenberg to the prosecutor.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 267):

Once they get walking, ENS steps up by JEB and speaks in a low tone.

What did you learn from Kate, I surmise she confessed?

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 267):

Garrett Rasmin watches as JEB and his small entourage retrace their steps toward Third Street and the Cattle Association office. The bounty hunter can be heard to say "Nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, seventeen, eighteen, nineteen, twenty," as the deputy passes, before following when he reaches twenty.

Cole reluctantly follows JEB and his group.

JEB, I'm beginning to rethink this giving up my gun.

Ignoring the bounty hunter, Cole glances over his shoulder. The wrangler raises his voice just enough to be heard.

Travis, Jake! You boys gotta sec?

In reply to Cole Trayne (msg # 270):

Travis steps down.  He tips his hat.  Master Foster.

Then he strolls over to the wrangler.

Cole.

In reply to Cole Trayne (msg # 270):

That explains a lot, Jake thought to himself, as he heard Travis tell the boy about what Cole had done to end up with a price on his head. Gunnin' down a big bug'll do that.

The rifleman nodded when Cole called out for Travis and him. Jake straightened up from his slouch against the hitching rail, and joined the wrangler.


"Sure, Cole."

In reply to Jake Richardson (msg # 272):

Cole slows his pace a might to put a enough distance between JEB's group and himself to allow his next words with Travis and Jake to remain unheard by anyone else.

In reply to Cole Trayne (msg # 273):

Jake pursed his lips thoughtfully as Cole spoke, then glanced at Travis before replying to the wrangler. He followed Cole's example and spoke in a low tone of voice that could only be heard by the other two men.

In reply to E.N.S. Ringgenberg (msg # 268):

JEB wants to be respectful of Mr Xu and answers in a quiet tone hoping he doesn't overhear. She did confess, claiming the killing was unintentional. She was prowling upstairs of the hotel looking for rooms to rob, which explains the metal shiv in my door lock, when the Chinese woman came out of her room and grabbed her. In the ensuing tussle the victim's throat was cut. Is that account consistent with the evidence you've found?

In reply to Jake Richardson (msg # 274):

Travis listens to Jake.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:15, Sun 08 Sept 2013.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 276):

Shrugging, Cole continues.

Travis looks to Cole continuing their conversation.

Garrett Rasmin continues to follow the group--which seems to have split into two along the walk down Third Street, as Cole slowed to speak with Jake and Travis.

He is decidedly less than twenty paces away from Cole Trayne; and probably more than twenty paces away from JEB.

In reply to Garrett Rasmin (msg # 279):

Travis comes to a stop and looks over at Rasmin.  He does not speak again until he is sure his words are private.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 280):

Garrett Rasmin waves at Travis.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 275):

ENS continues the low tone.

She said Mei Ling grabbed her? In the hall? Then how did they end up back in her room? I found no blood in the hall, but the blood in the room indicated that she was slashed in the room. By the way, I believe I have matched a knife Jake and I found at Jamison's to the shard from your door.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:53, Mon 09 Sept 2013.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 278):

In reply to Garrett Rasmin (msg # 281):

Travis smiles and tips his hat.

In reply to Cole Trayne (msg # 283):

Since Cole's comments seemed to be directed mainly at Travis, Jake kept pace with the other two men and made no comment for the moment.

That was int'restin' to hear the par-tic-ulars, howsomever.

In reply to E.N.S. Ringgenberg (msg # 282):

JEB pauses on the porch of the Cattle Association and turns to Ringgenberg while keeping an eye on Cole, May I see the knife?

In reply to Cole Trayne (msg # 283):

Travis waits with his pards.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 286):

ENS pauses with JEB.

It's locked up in my room right now... Kate admitted she was trying to rob rooms?

In reply to E.N.S. Ringgenberg (msg # 288):

She did. Tell me about the knife.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 287):

Cole shrugs.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 289):

Well, it was found in the kitchen where she was hiding. I'm fairly certain that the shard came from it, though a blacksmith might be able to tell for sure. I tried to get a blood sample from it to check against the samples from the room, but no luck there. You should just ask Kate if it's hers since she seems to be cooperating... while you're at it, ask where the outfit she wore is, so we could match the button or possibly blood from that too.

In reply to E.N.S. Ringgenberg (msg # 291):

What kind of knife is it?

In reply to Cole Trayne (msg # 290):

Travis nods to Cole then moves to the bounty hunter.

Mr. Rasmin another moment of your time please.

Travis moves towards the bounty hunter.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 293):

Rasmin shrugs and moves toward Sunday as the gunslinger approaches. He and Travis are now no more than 10 paces away from Cole and Jake. The bounty hunter seems willing to listen, but he doesn't speak or even actually look at Travis Sunday directly. His attention remains on Cole Trayne.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 292):

It's just an old cooking knife.

In reply to E.N.S. Ringgenberg (msg # 295):

What does it look like? Does it have a serrated edge?

In reply to Garrett Rasmin (msg # 294):

Travis extends his hand low and away from Cole and Jake.  A request to move.

Let's move a few steps from the accused.  He's not going anywhere. He's won't panic that way.  Besides I'd like to share one last piece of information with you then I won't bother you again with these initial pleasantries. .... Please.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 297):

The bounty hunter shows no interest in moving away. "Say what you want to say, Sunday."

In reply to Garrett Rasmin (msg # 298):

Travis would like to draw his pistol as a free action.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 299):

Travis Sunday draws his pistol.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 300):

Does Mr. Rasmin care to notice.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 301):

Garrett Rasmin glances at Travis Sunday. "You gonna fire that smokewagon, or whistle The Minstrel Boy?"

A few people in the street or on porches, not to mention his pards, notice Travis Sunday standing in the street with a skinned hogleg. Among them, Travis sees a young man sweeping the stepping stones in front of the First Baptist Church and negro woman scrubbing the porch of Cooper's Boarding House.

In reply to Garrett Rasmin (msg # 302):

Travis rolls his eyes with a measure of exasperation.

God I hate when people confuse politeness with a flannel mouth.

Travis cocks the pistol and aims center of mass.

Walk towards the hoosegow keep your distance from me or I'll shoot you.  I really don't care which.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 21:20, Sat 14 Sept 2013.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 304):

Using his hand to silently signal to Jake, to give him a moment, Cole turns towards Travis and the bounty hunter. He raises his voice just enough to be heard.

Travis, leave him be.

The wrangler then turns his back to shield his face from the bounty hunter as he returns to face Jake. He lowers his voice to a whisper.

In reply to Cole Trayne (msg # 305):

Rasmin's mighty damned cool about havin' a hogleg aimed at his par-ticulars, I'll give him that, Jake thought to himself. The rifleman wasn't entirely sure what sort of play Travis was making, so he stood silently and watched, his Spencer still nestled in the crook of his left elbow.

Jake nodded when Cole turned and addressed him in a low tone of voice. "Reckon so, considerin' recent developments."

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 304):

"Fuck you, Sunday. I have every right to stand here and you have no right to make any demands of me. If you plan to commit another murder, then commence with it."

In reply to Garrett Rasmin (msg # 307):

OOC:  Do I consider him defenseless according to the rules?  Is there a coup de grace with ranged weapons?  I also see no provisions in the rules for called shots to the limbs correct?
This message was last edited by the player at 15:28, Sun 15 Sept 2013.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 308):

You're right. No time to waste.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 309):

OOC: I found the coup de grace for ranged weapons. Does  this apply.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 308):

OOC: No, Rasmin is by no means defenseless. He is completely aware of Travis Sunday and has whatever Defense modifiers and actions available to him whenever he would usually get them. Sunday got the drop on Rasmin, which is why Travis has a gun ready and Rasmin doesn't. But Travis didn't draw and shoot--in which case I would likely have awarded a surprise round attack; rather, the gunslinger drew and then had a conversation. Rasmin is not defenseless. I'm sure if the reverse were true, that Travis wouldn't consider himself defenseless.

This is essentially a showdown, where Sunday already has his weapon drawn.

The Judge was fixin' to ask for each participant's Intimidate check, as per the rules on 206, but it wasn't clear what Travis was going to do. It seems more clear now and so I'm asking for Sunday's Showdown check.

There are no official rules for called shots the SRD, but there have been variants suggested. This Judge will allow called shots with circumstance modifiers depending on the location called (between -2 and -4). And that action is considered a Full-Round action.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 311):

OOC: Travis Sunday rolled 14 using 1d20+7. Intimidate (Showdown).
Travis has pistol drawn and aimed, which I believe is a +6 to the subsequent initiative check.

Travis would never consider himself defenseless, but he would never stand still in front of a man holding a gun on him and say better commence to murdering me either.  It seemed like he was going for the be still, Zen, I bet he won't shoot me move or was holding action until he realized Travis was going to shoot and then comply.  That's why I asked about defenselessness and CDG.

FWIW, Travis didn't know what he was going to do until Mr. Rasmin invited him to end his life.  It's a very elegant solution to many of Travis' problems. In fact, Travis thanks Garrett for his clarity of thought.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 312):

I agree with the +6 for Sunday's initiative. Roll it.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 313):

OOC:  Travis Sunday rolled 24 using 1d20+17. Initiative.

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg # 296):

Oblivious to the goings-on down the street from him and JEB, ENS answers.

No, no serrated edge, the blade is about 6 inches long, less than an inch wide... wooden handle. Why the interest in the knife's specifics, if I may ask?

In reply to E.N.S. Ringgenberg (msg # 315):

JEB begins to answer Ringgenberg's question when his attention is immediately diverted to the glint of sunlight reflected off the barrel of Travis Sunday's drawn smokewagon. JEB reaches for his Schofield and moves toward the gunfighter at a walking pace.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 314):

OOC: Travis Sunday should declare his action for the Fast Draw Round. No one besides Rasmin and Sunday may act in this round, but anyone who wishes to join after the Fast Draw Round should roll initiative at this time.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 317):

Travis is a little sloppy but he has the drop on the bounty hunter.  A quick moments glance tells him Rasmin means to make a play.  Stupid and stubborn can get a person killed quickly.  He was given an opportunity to live and fight another day but declined.  That's fine with Travis.   The Starr fires true.  Now the question is can he put enough bullets in him to put him down.  Bounty hunters are tough.  They have true grit some say.

OOC: Travis shoots his Starr double tap.
Travis Sunday rolled 27 using 1d20+12. Attack Starr (Double Tap).
Travis Sunday rolled 6 using 2d6 with rolls of 1,5. Action Point.
For a total of 32 to hit.
Travis Sunday rolled 11 using 3d6+1. Damage (+1d6 for Double tap).
I inadvertently rolled twice to hit and used a d20 accidentally for action points.  Please ignore.

In reply to Travis Sunday (msg # 318):

Although he figured he had called Sunday's bluff, Rasmin had no doubts that this gunslinger posed a danger. The bounty hunter had never made his living by being slow on the draw. Perhaps he relied on his quickness a little too much.

His right hand hanging near the butt of his Colt, as it had at a dozens of times before, he skins the hogleg without thinking, the moment he hears Sunday's weapon report. He thumbs the Colt's hammer and squeezes its trigger.

Both men have excellent aim, but neither's bullets seem to dissuade the other from continuing to discharge his weapons.

Free Action: Quick Draw
Attack Action: Fire Colt Army

OOC: All PCs who make an Initiative roll should declare actions for the new round, including Rasmin and Sunday.
08:23, Today: Judge Messalen rolled 25 using 1d20+9. Rasmin Colt.
08:25, Today: Judge Messalen rolled 11 using 2d6. Rasmin AP.
08:32, Today: Judge Messalen rolled 9 using 2d6+1. Rasmin Colt Dmg.
NOTE:
forgot to click to show the unique die rolls on the AP check, although it turns out to be obvious since there is only one combination that results in 11. I realized it as soon as I clicked 'roll' and was able to capture it from the top of the screen, which reports the rolls even if the log doesn't, and then said, "oh, '11'."
08:25, Mon 16 Sept 2013: Judge Messalen rolled 11 using 2d6 ((6,5)).

Attack = 25 + 6 = 31