Chapter 7: California Bound
'We're here to help.' Penny promised the woman, concentrating instead on the situation. Given the strange sighting, unnatural speed, the ongoing harassment of the woman, she was sure a supernatural monster was involved. The likeliest candidate in her experience was the Spring-heeled Jack, but he largely restricted his attentions to young, unmarried maidens – and Penny still bore the embarrassments. There were others that targeted pregnant women specifically, for one horrible reason or another, but there was nothing she could formulate a plan around yet.
Bringing a band of hunters to the house would most likely scare the creature off – a sufficient outcome, but Penny preferred to identify, capture, and slay it to be certain – but they could not stay out there. She nodded to Simon, saying softly so only he could hear. 'Please do. And take care out there. Oh, and ask Kate to wad some clothing under her shirt as if pregnant.'
Returning to the woman's side, she explained 'Madam, my companions and I were travelling to San Jose for business when we went astray. We have been wandering the desert all day without rest or water. We would greatly appreciate it if you could provide some drink, food, and directions, and perhaps shelter for the night. I can pay you handsomely for the trouble.'
'Furthermore, it appears there is a scoundrel out there who means you some mischief or harm. Perhaps a thief.' Penny downplayed the threat, so as not to alarm the poor woman – at this stage, anyway. 'Hopefully some company will scare this rascal off, before more forceful persuasion is required.'
This message was last edited by the player at 00:47, Sun 14 Feb 2016.