Night, April 9th, 1879. Ward's Barn

Some mood music

Nathanial Frost could feel the curse inside him. It churned inside his guts, and though he coughed until he bled, he still couldn't dislodge it.

Damn Ward. Damn him to Hell for this.

The curse was consuming him, and Nathanial knew it. He'd seen what Ward's curses could do, and he had no illusions that he would, indeed, be dead within a week. He doubted he would last even that long.

He wouldn't go without a fight, though.

He crawled into the barn. He'd seen Ward calling his spirits here...well, he intended to summon one of his own.

Gus had told him the story of how Tex had come to be the way he was. Nathanial had learned well. He could call the same spirit that had granted Tex his incredible powers. All Nathanial had to do was make a deal...he wasn't using his soul anyhow.

Nathanial knelt at the circle etched into a giant marble slab in the center of the barn. He pulled his bowie knife, and tried to remember how Gus said he'd called the thing before.

The barn had a large brass firebowl tucked away in the corner. Nathanial struggled to move the damn heavy thing into position, then filled the bottom with coal. He also added some kerosene, some hay, and a few small chunks of Ghost Rock. He struck a match and stood a good few feet back before tossing it in to the bowl.

A change of mood.

There was a *WOOSH!* as the flames caught the kerosene. Smoke begain to rise, dark at first, but then lightening to a ghostly pale as the distinctive wail of burning Ghost Rock rose up from the flames.

Now came the Chant. "Oh mighty Tezcatlcoatl, Serpent of the Smoking Mirror, I beseech you to come forth and...and..." Aw, Hell. How did the chant go again? Fuck it. "I want you to come here so we might make a deal."

The smoke from the fire suddenly began to waver and twist unnaturally. The smoke took on the appearance of a coiled serpent with two glowing embers for eyes, and the wailing of the coal began to sound more like the shake of a monumental rattlesnake.

"Y̨o̴u̢ hav͜e s̡u͘mmo͞nèd ͢m͢e, ̕a͏nd ͠I̛ have͞ c͜o͞me͝.̴" hissed a voice from the coiling cloud. "Wh͡y ̡a̢ve ͢yo̵u̴ ̴d̡o̵ne҉ ̕thi̸s, a̷n͜d ͝what͏ ́do͜ y̡ou o͢f͝f͜er͠ to ̀s͢at҉e m͜y wra̴th̴ ́at being͜ ̧ca͜l͘le̕d̷ ̸fòr͝th?̛"

"Er...offer?" Nathanial gulped. Gus hadn't mentioned anything about making no damn offer! Hastily he searched through his pockets. "Um...shit. I-I got some gold dollars..."

"Go̸l͡d̢?" the serpent hissed. The rattling began to shake the walls of the barn. "Yo̴u͠ th͡ink I͡ ͘want ̧y͟our̡ f͏il͝th͠y ̶ǵol̴d?͡ ̷A̸f͏tȩr͠ the mùrde͜ŗe̷ŗ Cort́es sl͝a̷ug͝hter͜e̢d my p̡eople̸ i͡n̷ se̴ar͘c͜h͏ ͢o͡f it̕?" Nathanial only had time to yelp as the fanged maw of the smoke-snake opened and darted towards him. Instead of being swallowed, however, nathanial found himself staring into a pair of burning coals as the serpent gazed at him. he could feel the heat of that gaze blistering his skin. "Y̡ou i͏nśul̵t me,͠ ̢h͡u͏ma͞n.͢"

"OhJesusdon'tkillmepleasedon'tkillme" Nathanial whimpered. A foul smell filled the air as a wet stain formed on the crotch of his pants.

"A͠h̛.̡..yès.̡ Yo̢u͜r f̶e̕ar ͠i̵s͘ ͡in͞to̕x̀i̢c̴a̵ti̡n̡g̡.́" The serpent muttered, and the smoke coiled back near the brazier. "I̸ a̧c͝c̶ep͠t ̛your ҉off̧e̡ri̢ng,҉ hu̧m̡an. ͝S̶t̴ate y̷o̢u̕r͜ ͜des̨i͏r̢e,̷ ̧a҉n͠d̶ w̛e̶ sha͡l̷l̷ s̸e͝e w̛hat b͞a̧r̡gai̶ns̵ m͡aý bé ̕m͠ad͡ę."

Nathanial swallowed, then coughed. The coughing fit wracked his body as the curse ate into him. He knelt by the circle in the marble slab and picked his words. "Oh Mighty Serpent, I want what you done for Gus and Tex. I want you to make me immortal."

The serpent seemed to smile. "Immort̨a̷l?̛ ̵A ͘bo͢on̷ not ͠giv́en̛ lig͜h͟tly. What d̡o ͞y͜o͡u̴ of̧f͢ęr ҉in̨ ̨re̛tu͝rn?̢"

"I-I offer you my soul, oh Mighty Serpent." Nathanial replied.

"Yo͘ur͠ so̕ul͝?̶ ͜Wh̷at͟ ́so̕rt ̀of be̛iņg do͘ y͢où thiņk̸ ͠I̷ ͝am,̶ ̷huma̡n?̀" the serpent replies with a sibilant chuckle. "A͝ ̧şoul iş worth les̨s̴ ̛tha͝n̴ not̛hing͞ ͝tò me, and̡ ́I͢ c͡òul̀d̕ no͘t take̕ ̛it ͘e̡v͝e͠n͟ ͡if͝ I͡ ̧wan͢ted͟ ít,̷ f̀or͠ ̕m̸o͞r̸tal s͢ouls ͡are͞ ̸t͟h͜e ̢pr͡opert̶y of̛ Mićt͞l̵an̷tecu͠ht̨li̷,̢ wḩom I͜ ͘w͞o͢u̴ļd ̡never̢ c̛ro͢s͠s. ̨And͜ ͘if͠ ͝y͡o͜u'̛r̷e s͞o̵ ̡q͜ui̧c̶k̢ ̷t͘o ͝of̷f͡ęr̶ it͞, it ͡mu̧s͟t not̛ be wor̸t̵h ͢m̕úch to ̸y̢ou̵, ͜ei̷the̵r.̴ Y̷ou ẁill hav̷e͜ to ͠m͞ak̛e ̛a be̵tter͘ offe͢r t̴hán ̀t̵hat, h̕um̀a̷n̶."

Nathanial began to sweat. He thought all demons wanted souls...what the hell else did he have to offer?

The minutes ticked by as he struggled to think of an answer.

"I̵t ̵s̀eems ͝y͘o͡u̸ ̸a̡re̢ a ͟ver̛y͟ g͞r͞eat fo͘ol,̛ ͟huma̷n." The serpent remarked. "T̸el̶l ͜me,̡ ̶wh̸at led ͘you t̨o ͘s͞e͝e͠k me ͘ou̕t͞ ͠fór͢ a b͘ar̷gain ͞i͘n̷ ̵th͘e firs̛t p͢l̡a̶ce? Hel͜p̡ ̴me ̸u͝ndȩrs͟ta͟nd̡ your͘ situat͝ion͘."

So Nathanial did. The words just tumbled out, about the failed raid to chase the nosy Marshal out of town, about Ward and his magic and the great envy Nathanial had of his powers, of the curse Ward placed on him that was slowly eating him alive, of his fear of dying.

The serpent listened to the gunman's tale. Finally, it asked a question. "T̡e̴l̴l̶ ͝me̛, humań...͝ẁhich ͝d͘o yo̡u͘ f̸e̛ar͟ mo̢r̢e̢?͜ ͝T͟he de͞a̷th,͜ or̀ t̴he͟ s̕l̶o̵w ̨d͡ying͟ l̸eádin͠g̴ t̷ó ́i̛t?͟"

"What difference does that make?"

"All̢ ̛t̵he ͝d̵iff̶e͞renc͢e. I c̷an spar͡e͠ you̴ ͞fr͞om one, b̡u͞t ̶n͟ơt ͞t̕h͠e oth̴e͝r. ̀Y̧o̡ur f̢rien͞d ̡Gu͜s̕ ͞un͢ders̶tơod th̕is̡ whe͟n ͘he͡ ̵m̢ad̨e ͟his pact.̧"

"What the Hell are you talking about?"

"L̴e͠t me ̶m̸aḱe it si͝m͝ple͠. ͜I can̵ ͡a̵r̛ran̡g̀e ̨f͢o͜r̕ ͞y̢ou to͡ ͡s͢ur͘viv̡e y͡o͜u̸r c̸omin̸g̶ ̶de̷ath, b̢ut͘ you̧ w͟o̴ul̛ḑ ͡then c͘a̸rr͡y̷ a͘ cur͘se ̡fo̶re̡ve͜r. Ór, I̸ can s͠p͡a͜r̷è y̡ou th̨e ̀p̵ain o͞f̀ ḑying̢,̧ ͢quic̵kl̸y͟ a̶n̶d̷ ͞p͠ainl͠ès̢sly͞, ̡but ͢yo̵u ͜w̵ould̛ be ́dead for̛ev͟er.͜ ͟W̸h̡ich w̸o͞u͞ld y͠o̡u͞ p͜r̕efer?͡"

Nathanial thought long and hard. He didn't look forward to this "being cursed forever" business, but Gus didn't seem to have it too badly. Sure, Tex was a horror show, but even being turned into something that powerful had an appeal, when Nathanial got right down to it.

"If that first one, the being cursed forever, is what Gus done, then I'll do that." Nathanial said.

"E̷x̛c̶ellen͟t. The͘n͘ ͡h̨e̛ŗe̷ ̡is wha͜t͘ y͠ou̷ ̴w͜įll͠ do̧. ̧Yo͜u͡ ̕will ͠dó ͝as̀ Ẁar̷d͟ ţo̴ld̴ ͠you,͡ a̕nd̴ t̴urn̡ yo̡ur̡self ͝in ̶t̀o ̸t̛he͜ ́M͟ar͟s͟h̵al. ̢Y͢o̕u̶ wil͡l̨ ͝a̴cc͠e̛pt̷ ͡wh͟a̸teve͜r ̵judgment͡ ̡i͜s m̨ade a̴g̛ains̕t͢ yo͞u̢, ev̵e͞n̕ ͠íf it̢ ͜w̴o͞u͟ld ̨l̴ead t̶o d͢ea͝th̢. ́Wit̴h̕ ̢my͘ bless͘įn̶g͡, y͡o͞u ͘w̴il̢l ͜be͠ abĺe ͢to̷ ͢sh̡ed̡ your͢ pro͜bl͟em͞s ̛a̢nd́ be̷g̶in͜ a̵ņe̛w̶.͝ ͝Is t̕h̵i̢s acc͢epta͘ble?͝"

"I suppose so." Nathanial grumbled.

"O̵ņe m͞ore͜ t͝h͜i̴n͘g̴. You ̶will̴ no̵t̛ ̀att͟èm̛pt tò s̀e̸ek̷ r͡ev̢en̴ge ͠aga͠i͞n̷şt͘ ̨W̛a̸rd̡. Nor͢ ̀will ̸you̷ a̶tte͝mpt ̸to̴ s͡abo͠tage thé e͠ff̡or͝t̵s ͢he͟ ̡h͝a͢s͞ ̨m̡aḑe.̷ ̵If ̕y͟ou ͜d͝o ́thi͢s,͜ I wi̕l̶l rev̧okȩ ̧my ble̡s̕s̕ing̶, a͜n̢d̸ ̸you ẁi͟ll di͢e ̷i͟n p͞ain. Ar̡e ͟we understoo̕d̸?"

"Fine." Nathanial grumbled again in irritation. "Can we get this over with?"

"Ho̕ld͟ ͢o͟u̸t͘ you̧r ar̵m." The serpent instructed.

Nathanial did so, and the serpent struck. Smoggy fangs bit deep into the flesh, and the man screamed as the venom burned in the wound. Everything began to go dark...

"A final͢ ́wa̧rnińg͟. The şn̴ake̸ i̴s not i͡mmun͘e̢ t͘o̶ ̀it'̧s ͝o̡wņ bite͠." the serpent whispered as Nathanial collapsed.

He wondered what that meant as unconsciousness claimed him.

_{[[OOC: Important note! Trying to summon evil spirits is a bad idea, and can lead to being possessed, making foolish deals for power, the disfavor of your religion's supreme being, and itchy rashes. Please don't attempt this at home!]]}

April 10th, 1879. Dr. Ward's house.

Charging Bear dreams:

Charging Bear sits, sleeping upright in his chair, the cat still on his lap. He dreams...

[Private to Charging Bear: The land is shaking. Everywhere the Snake burrows, the ground shakes. It knocks over trees, drains lakes, tears apart the walls of the white man's buildings.

On the horizon, the hawk shrieks, and bolts of lighting spear the water. Winds gust at the beat of its wings, bringing rain and hail and thunder. The hawk is not inside the coming storm...it is the storm. It circles towards the land, crying thunder.

The earth snake rears, bursting forth from beneath. It is coal black, with flecks of white gems for eyes. Its tale rattles as it coils, waiting for the storm hawk to reach it.

The two figures lunge towards each other, crushing everything between them as the struggle. The hawk's talons sink deep into the earth snake, but the snake's fangs find the storm hawk's wing...]

Charging Bear blinks awake. The cat in his lap has moved. It is now standing on its hind legs, its forepaws resting on his chest. The cat is level with him, its yellow eyes staring into his as if it's trying to tell him something through force of will alone.

Then the cat licks his nose, jumps to the ground, and walks out the door, leaving Charging Bear alone in the room with the dawn breaking through the windows behind him.

---

Augustus Spotswood dreams:

Completely unconscious, Augustus doesn't notice the somewhat ungentle ways Alouette positions him in the laundry room. He doesn't move at all. He doesn't groan. But he dreams...

[Private to Augustus Spotswood: The cliff is sheer, and the ledge he clings to is crumbling. Pebbles and dirt slip through his fingers as Augustus tries to pull himself up and over, and he finds himself making no progress at all. He can make out a pair of booted feet near the edge, and he knows somehow they do not belong to anyone friendly to him.

"Do you need help again? You know you can't do it on your own." A voice from above the boots whispers. "You should know how, but you don't, do you?"

Augustus opens his mouth to protest. He starts to recite his multiplication tables to the speaker, to prove he knows many things, but all he recites is gibberish.

Below him is a river, and the river is made of an endless herd of cows, flowing slowly to the horizon.

"Want me to give you a hint? Sound is not the key. Sound is just noise. There must be a will behind the sound, to shape it from noise to meaning. What is the meaning? Where is the will?"

Augustus asks for help, as his precarious position worsens. The pebbles slip, the ledge crumbles away, and the stream of cows below him moo and low as the flow around the world, towards a green flame...]

The dream ends as Augustus blinks awake to the smell of starch and cotton. He has been laid on a hard shelf somewhere...there is a feeling of space around him that tells him he's not anywhere near the ground. At least his head is resting on something soft...it feels like a towel. It is very dark...the only light comes from the crack under the door.

Alouette, meanwhile, has left its kitchen post for a bit to get as high as it possibly can (fortunately it can't get onto the roof) and welcome the first light of dawn with...what might generously be called "singing". It's melodious enough, if one assumes it's the sound of a brass band being murdered.

Sweat rolled the native son's brow and into his eyes. A few harsh blinks and a wipe of his sleeve cleared the salt laden water. His right hand reached up on its own to the doll about his neck. The doll's little feet were now stained reddish-brown from Charging Bear's own blood which had been spilled the night before. Looking down he frowned at the poor doll's state, "I should clean her doll." his eyes move around the room to a small basin and pitcher of water by a small mirror.

With unsteady hands Charging Bear pours the water in the basin. He lifted the leather necklace over his head and slowly put the small doll in the basin, only up to its waist. With great care he began rubbing the doll's legs between thumb and forefinger to remove the blood stains. The work was slow but he continued as his mind thought of the dream that had invaded his sleep that night. The serpent and the hawk ... kill each other and all those around ...

He looked back toward the door that the cat had just left out of, "A warning from the spirits no doubt... but who is the serpent and who is the hawk." Looking back down at the doll he noted that the cleaning was done and carefully dried the toy on a nearby towel. Returning the necklace to its place, Charging Bear thought more on the dream and the possible meanings. Something in him rumbled, he realized that last night's meal had be interrupted unexpectedly, and he was quite hungry.

"I won't get much of anything done or figured out without something to eat." with that he headed downstairs to the singing of Alouette wondering what the noise was.

Eyes blinking rapidly, Augustus awakes, muttering, "...aaaAAH!  The cows!"  In his startlement he nearly falls clear off his "bed," but manages to reflexively catch himself before tumbling off into space.  With so little clues as to where he might be, he settles back down and says quietly to the darkness, "Hello?  Hello?  I seem to be lost again...  Though I can't hear any cows this time, which is an improvement."  He pauses a moment, then adds even quieter, "You're right...the cows /could/ be sleeping..."

Abraham's day started with the somewhat melodious sounds of a brass band being rolled down a hill, which was something of an unusual thing to be woken by out here on the coastal plains. His body protested to being woken in such a manner, but as it was near time for him to greet the day and begin his duties he ignored the complaints from his aging joints.

He attended to nature's call, then washed and dressed. Then he went to the balcony and checked on what was making the noise. As he suspected, it wasn't anything dangerous...just the curious mechanical automaton that had followed Master Ward home yesterday and had caused an endless series of interesting events since. Since this latest event wasn't in the process of setting the house on fire again, he decided to let the machine be. He had never really understood all this scientific stuff anyway.

He passed Georgia, the master's pet cat, slinking out of the guest room, and heard the sounds of their guest stirring. Georgia curled up around his leg and gave him a look that he, through long experience, knew meant "please feed me." He picked the cat up and headed downstairs to begin breakfast.

The kitchen was a disaster, and Abraham had a feeling the automaton was to blame. He sighed and put it back into a semblance of order before collecting ingredients for a quick breakfast for everyone. He put the oven on and went to the pantry...and was suddenly reminded that he'd stored a corpse there last night when it collapsed on him. He let out a short, discreet yelp as his heart skipped a beat. He took a moment to let his temper settle before collecting the foodstuffs and manhandling the body back in, locking the door behind him. He noticed that one of the sausage strings was missing--probably lifted by one of the cattlehands.

He was reminded that all the dairy products had been placed outside, and went to retrieve whatever hadn't been taken by any passing animals. The milk jug was untouched, but the cheese was gone. Sigh. Abraham made a mental note to add that to the shopping list. he returned inside and began to cook.

After about an hour, the meal was almost ready. And that was when Abraham head the commotion in the laundry room.

He casually pulled a knife (it paid to be prudent) and cautiously opened the door a crack. "Hello? Who's in there?" he asked the gentleman perched on the shelf.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:18, Tue 14 Sept 2010.

Whilst Charging Bear is engaged in whatever tiding-over activity he might be before breakfast, there's a familiar tread on the stairs, light and elegant as a fairy elephant with a peg leg. The automaton has felt itself in lack of the wounded ex-sergeant's presence - now that presence has been given to it, it selects the reaction for being given a wanted thing: it squeaks like a delighted little girl and attempts to hug Charging Bear.

"Howdy, Called Charging Bear! Did God fix you? You leaked lots..." it observes. It seems to have picked up a vegetable steamer on its travels.

Then it notes the pantry door is slightly ajar. "! Not good! Advise stay back, Called Charging Bear," it tells him, and begins stalking up to the pantry like a coyote might stalk up on an abandoned cheese for no reason the native can see.

Accepting and returning the hug, Charging Bear lets out a slight groan and says "Hello Alouette." in a bit of a strained voice. When the hug ends and the metal angel inquires of his status, he says "I'm on the mend, Dr Ward knows his craft at the very least."

Charging Bear watches Alouette pad towards the pantry with a look of curiosity, though he notes that Abraham is doing similarly.

The pantry door, if it seemed ajar at first, turns out to be secured and locked.

It's the laundry room, from which emanates a strange muttering about cows, that Abraham is headed toward, kitchen knife at the ready.

[Private to Augustus Spotswood: Still waiting for Augustus to respond to Abraham...]

With a chuckle, Charging Bear walks to where Alouette is. "I think things in the behind the locked door are alright. I'm going to see about some breakfast."

Alouette gives the door a curious poking, then leans back to see where the butler went. "Not stab AUG-US-TUS, My Man Abraham!"

Apparently satisfied that he won't, the nut and boltcase hastens back to Charging Bear's side. "Danny Albatross is in the cold food room because Dr.Ward did not want self to take him to church...the cattlehands wanted to burn him or put him in the pit where the bodies are buried, but that is plus plus unsafe...his blood has much infection and witchcraft and he might be a wendigo now."

It pauses a moment to knock on the pantry door.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:24, Tue 14 Sept 2010.

In reply to Abraham (msg #6):

At the voice, Augustus gets very quiet.  Gulping slightly, he answers back cautiously, "M-Mr. Spotswood is in here.  Though he is not very sure where /exactly/ here is.  He is...  I...  I am in darkness, both literally and figuratively.  Would you be able to assist me?"  Another pause as his mind whirls again.  This time, a much quieter, more to himself, "Unless of course I'm still dreaming...  you are right.  I could be.  Its very hard to tell in the dark."

Abraham pauses, both at Alouette's call and Mr. Spotswood's reply. Well, at least the knife was unnecessary. Not a prowler, not a wild animal. Still..."I bet you're responsible for this." He says, looking at Alouette poking about the pantry. There's no reply at the automaton's knock. "Look. Would you please leave the kitchen and wait in the dinning room? You've caused enough damage here already."

He sets the knife down. "Mr. Spotswood? This is Abraham. I'm coming in now." He says as he opens the door fully, letting more light in. He looks at the man on the shelf, and offers a hand for him to take. "You're alright. You're in the laundry room. I think your mechanical friend put you here, though I haven't a clue as to why...there's a perfectly serviceable bed in the guest room upstairs, and I know that it's seen it at least once. If you're hungry, I'm serving some breakfast now."

"Were you talking to someone else?" he asks as he helps Augustus down from the ledge.

"Not damage, My Man Abraham..." the clank protests mildly. True, rice probably isn't usually kept in precise little piles around the counter, nor the tureens on the floor or the spoons in the coal scuttle, but it's been careful not to hurt anything. "-world differently arranged."

It's not sure which room is the dining room, but it'll happily clank after Charging Bear as he moves towards the smell of food. "Not good to use blankets after sick person - sickness can stay," it remarks, then pauses, unsure why it knew that.

"Look," it shows Charging Bear its new favourite thing, the vegetable steamer. "Object of unknown function..." it moves one section, causing the others to close slightly, quite fascinated. "...it is a little bit like God."

Looking over the rearranging that Alouette has done, Charging Bear shakes his head with a smile, "I think Abraham is less than thrilled at your causing change to his space my dear Alouette. I have always found that cooks like to know exactly where their supplies are so they can work quickly. This makes them creatures of habit."

Moving towards the drawings room so that he and the tin-can angel won't draw the wrath of Abraham, he looks at the steamer and nods, "I suppose if I believed in god I would understand that better."

In reply to Abraham (msg #13):

Augustus heaves a sigh of relief at both the coming of the light and the coming of Abraham.  With a smile, he gladly accepts the help down from his accidental perch, "Thank you, Abraham, a biblical name for a saint of a man.  Appropriate."  As to the question of speaking to someone else, he lifts a curious brow, "There's no one else here.  To whom would I have spoken?"  Once he's back on his feet, he is forced to cough quite a bit, scrambling for his handkerchief but instead settling on a handful of once-clean linens.  Apparently lying down too long only makes his condition worse.  Once the fit dies down, he will carefully wrap up the linen and offer it to Abraham, muttering, "I'm...very sorry..."  Embarrassed, he will grab up his bags and hat, hustling off to the dining room to join the others.

Charging Bear turns to the new comer, Spotswood, and nods. "I don't believe we've properly met mister...?" He extends his hand towards the well dressed fellow.

"I had my world arranged as I liked it, thank you kindly." Abraham mutters as he shoos the contraption away. He decides to let it play with the vegetable steamer for now. He gives Charging Bear a look of relief as the Indian draws the machine away.

As he helps Augustus down, he frowns only slightly at the comment about his name...the name his father had given him was Obayana, and the man who first called him Abraham had been far from a saint. But he let the comment pass without remark, since he'd been Abraham now for nearly 40 years.

"I don't know, sir. It just sounded like you were talking to someone, and it wasn't me." He says as he leads Augustus to the dining room. He takes the soiled linens but, remembering the machine's admonishment about sickness remaining behind, decided to discard them instead of laundering them, and added "new sheets" to his growing shopping list.

He returned to the kitchen and finished his preparations, retrieving his set-aside knife as he does so. "Would you folks prefer coffee or orange juice?" he called out as he prepared platters.

Alouette takes this in with what's probably keen interest, glancing back to better memorise what a creature of habit looks like. It offers the steamer to Charging Bear at his words, placing it gently in his hands if he'll take it.

"God is," it says, then points at the holes. "Spaces are like spirits - example: your spirit, spirit of Dandelion, snake spirit living in Gus Shaw, all the angels - they are not God, but they are in the Great Spirit, part of Him. Without them, God would not be God, function; He would just Be. Aether, like metal." It pokes a segment, raising the rest like a metal flower. "Also, it cannot move one piece above another: all move equally because that is what Is, how it works..."

It tilts its head at the steamer. "Some look on top, but that is only because they overlap lots...look, little force at one hole, if pushing the right way, moves segment...segment moves the right way with the...everything, and-" the self-declared angel looks up at Charging Bear over the closed-up vegetable steamer, "-it Does. Called Charging Bear understands now?"

The automaton starts craning to see what's in the various pots, jars and cups on the breakfast table, remarking: "It is also shiny: God is shiny. Howdy AUG-US-TUS!"

Charging Bear turns abruptly back to the tin-can angel, "Snake spirit? In Gus... I had a dream last night about a Snake spirit and a Hawk spirit. The two figures fought and killed each other and everything between them in their struggle. "

The automaton toys with its vegetable steamer and considers poking the jam.

"Perhaps Called Charging Bear should tell Gus Shaw to beware of the Hawk, or tell Dr.Ward not to bring spirit-snakes to this plane in his barn with the ghost rock...ghost rock is not good for mortals anyway, the pain of the chickens has no centre."

"You're interpretation is a little too direction. Gus is part of the snake I saw in my dream... and apparently so is Dr Ward." The native son's face grows more grave as he continues to talk things out. "This means other forces are at play. Perhaps the hawk was a symbol of law... law... yes law... much as the bald eagle is used for the Union. ... That would mean Evans ... or some other lawman would fight with Ward's people ... Thus cause the destruction of the town." Charging Bear is obvious stretching the limits of his own mind as he talks his idea through.

Augustus slips into the dining room, still shamefaced over his inappropriate use of good linens.  He sets his bags and hat aside, perking up a bit as he hears a little of the conversation.  As he is greeted, he smiles a wan smile in return, "Good moning, Alouette."  Turning to the Indian, he nods a greeting as well, "And a good morning to you...um...  Odd, I can't seem to remember your name.  Bear something?  That's it.  Yes.   Good morning Mr. /Bear/."  He seems quite proud of himself at this, then continues, "As for dreams, they are most likely meaningless.  Random jumbles of the mind.  Perhaps the hawk and the snake were simply a hawk and a snake."  Taking his seat, he unfolds a napkin, "I mean, I dreamt of cows..."  His humor trails away, a vacant expression for a moment, "So many cows...."  Blinking, he mutters to himself, "Stop it.  A cow is a cow.  And that's that."

After a moment, he looks over to Abraham, "Orange juice, if you please.  I fear my nerves are not settled enough for coffee."

Abraham brings out the platters and sets them on the dining table. He sets out pancakes, eggs, biscuits, and fried ham, as well as two glasses of orange juice (as he didn't get a preference from Charging Bear). "Breakfast is served, sirs." he says, then lets the gentlemen get to their food while he takes a second tray upstairs.

He knocks gently on Ward's door. "Sir? I brought you your breakfast, sir." He says, then waits.

From beyond the door he can hear the soft tinkling of a music box, and it concerned him. He opened the door slightly and looked in.

Ward sat on the bed. He'd already dressed himself, Abraham noted. On the dresser beside the bed, a tarnished silver music box sat, the key winding away as it played. In Ward's hand was a photograph. He stared at it, and for him the rest of the world did not exist.

Abraham hated to interrupt, but the food was getting cold, and there were chores to do, and Ward had business he needed to attend to. So the butler cleared his throat.

"Ah. Yes. Please take it downstairs...I shall dine with my guests this morning." He said slowly, as if half-awake.

Abraham sighed. "As you wish, Master Ward. Only please hurry...I expect the machine to start tearing up the floorboards looking for where the moon set if it's not looked after."

There was a faint smile on the doctor's face, which Abraham found encouraging. Shaking him out of a maudlin state quickly was crucial...otherwise it could last days, even weeks. he quietly closed the door behind him, and returned, tray in hand, downstairs to see what the guests were up to now.

"Fat cows or thin cows?" the clank asks from a murmur of static, almost distantly. Then, seeing the humans are occupied, it makes an exploratory circuit of the room and if not hailed or halted will patter off outside for a bit, vegetable steamer in tow.

"I am called Charging Bear... not Mr. Bear. As to my dream, I think you're wrong Augustus. Spirits talk to us in their way. Sometimes directly and others in more indirect methods. As for your cow dream, well if the bits I heard float upstairs were true you did spend some time with cattle last night." As he talks, Charging Bear prepares a plate of two biscuits, eggs, and a few pieces of fried ham. "But who knows, I might have been influenced by the tequila." He takes it and his juice and walks out after Alouette.

Ward enters the dining area and takes a seat. "Good morning, Mr. Spotswood." he says. "I trust you had a pleasant rest?"

The automaton apparently doesn't notice Charging Bear's moccasined approach, crouched just a little beyond the porch and autistically engrossed in exploring the movements of the vegetable steamer and its shadow. It hasn't noticed it's getting increasingly covered in ants due to having one foot scuffed into a tiny ant-heap, either.

Outside, the day is beginning, but the light seems oddly flat and unwelcoming, and the unnatural stillness remains. There's a darkness to the east over the sea that could be storm clouds, and there's a redness to the dawn.

[[OOC: “Like a red morn that ever yet betokened,
Wreck to the seaman, tempest to the field,
Sorrow to the shepherds, woe unto the birds,
Gusts and foul flaws to herdmen and to herds.”]]

"A bit of both, I think," answers Augustus to the machine's query.  He has begun to simply take such questions as the norm when dealing with said machine.

He too prepares his plate, carefully taking a bit of everything.  At the Indian's assertion of spirits influencing dreams, the scientist merely shakes his head ruefully, "I really don't mean to be rude, but that smacks of simple superstition.  As you pointed out, I did have a very interesting, yet confusing, encounter with cattle.  So it is little surprise that I dreamed much the same." Cutting off a bit of ham, he glances up to see the Indian's reaction...only to find that he's wandered off.  Perplexed, he eats.

Dr. Ward's arrival does cause his breakfast a pause, rising from his seat out of deferential courtesy to the host, "I am uncertain as to how well I slept...  It was quite deep and riddled with confusing dreams.  Moreover, Alouette decided to carry me, asleep mind, to bed in the laundry room.  I'm really not sure why...."

In reply to Augustus Spotswood (msg #30):

"Ah, dreams. 'I could be bounded in a nutshell, and count myself a king of infinite space, were it not that I have bad dreams.'" Ward quotes. "Believe me, there are nights when I sympathize with Hamlet. Of course, you might be able to unravel that mystery by asking Alouette directly. I do not know if she could articulate the reason, but she seems to learn through interaction. Something seems to have given Alouette the idea that a laundry room was a place for a sleeping person. Speaking of our errant machine, where is Alouette? And where is Mr. Bear? I thought I heard him speak earlier."

 Her pack upon her shoulders and cross her chest,the katan sheathed comfortably at her side. The woman's wooden sandels lightly sink tot he soft sand, thought it kept her from dropping low into the terrain. She kept her own pace and was quiet in her motion, thinking of what to say percisely. Her little mission to find the people that left the other day will at least get her in to see what in the damnation this man, Doc Ward, is up to.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:48, Fri 17 Sept 2010.

[[A little mood music]]

The sky was a hazy red, the sort of sunrise that looked like the sky was bleeding. It was clearer than in Shan Fan, with the day just beginning to warm to the heights it would reach later. Vapor curled off the prairie and brought a wavering, surreal quality to the road before Gangatsu.

It was quiet. Much too quiet. It was the sort of stillness that made one imagine things creeping up from behind. The bushes clutched like grasping hands in the occasional breeze, and once or twice Gangatsu thought she might have seen something move out of the corner of her eye...but there's nothing there when she turns.

Worse, though, is the feeling of being watched from somewhere...eyes far distant, perhaps high in the sky, below the ground, or perhaps just out of sight.

It's almost a relief to see the house in the distance, with actual figures moving about out on the porch...though one of the figures is strange, like a humanoid brass bird. It seems to be playing with some kind of metal fan.

Ting... Ting... Ting...

Red suited the mood of the samurai, traveling in the early light and at seeing th house amoung the eerie mood of the vast land, she felt nothing close to relief at finding others moving about. Though the glittering twinkle of something, a earthy star against the ominous prestige of the ranch house guiding her closer. For a moment, she became soujourn to watch the moving metal creature reflecting the light.

Ting.. Ting.. Ting..

It was that creepy automan, the creation from mad works and magic, no doubt. Emerald eyes managed to pull away from it and survey the deserted plains. The faint clank of the machine moving played with her head, like the sound of spurs jingling at impact. It sounded like it was coming closer, yet...

Ting. Ting. Ting.

Without a sudden movement in this dawn of nothingness, emerald eyes would slide othe corners and watch for a moment, listening. Attempting to hear over te  interference of her paranoid mind, playing tricks on the shadowy figments. Something was there. Flesh and bone... And fur? Her brow furrorwed slightly, spoting a hare of some sort.. A jack Rabbit, his black tail making her head cant slightly.. She was being stalked by someone's stew...
This message was last edited by the player at 09:11, Fri 17 Sept 2010.

The automaton doesn't note whatever's bounding about in the bushes by the drive, and indeed completely fails to notice the relatively larger scarlet-clad Gangatsu until she's quite close and well free of the mist. Even then it doesn't recognise her hat.

"Howdy, Pyramid Head!" it greets her with enthusiasm.

Leaning against the house with a biscuit containing egg and ham in hand, Charging Bear watched Alouette play much as he had done his sister years and years before. The similarities were not lost on him, though his sister would've had the good sense not to stir up an ant bed. He wait slowly not wanting to upset his stomach which had seen less than grand times the night before.

Something caught his attention out of the corner of his eye and caused him to look towards the road. The red is what made him notice the newcomer. He finished his second biscuit as he watched the person come up the road, unsure of the gender, but he did recognize the hat. Charging Bear would never forget coolie hats, not after seeing that ancient looking Asian man who wore one take out five bandits at one time with just the random items about the work site. What had Rose McAnalley said that man had been using... his chi? That was it. This of course brought the native son's mind to other places.

Wish Rose was around now, she always seems to have better idea of what to do when things went strange like that have here as of late. he shook his head slowly, Doesn't matter, she's not here and I am... so I'll just have to deal with it and tell her all about it when next I see her.

Smiling as Alouette called out to the newcomer, he reached out and gently tapped the tin-can angel's 'shoulder' "The hat is called a coolie, Alouette."

The automaton looks back at the light *tok* on its casing, pausing a moment to record the information. "Coolie...hat." It ticks, then looks at he approaching figure again and asks earnestly: "Is person under pyramid coolie hat a man or a lady?"

With a shrug, Charging Bear replies, "I'm not sure. We'll find out soon enough I imagine." Finishing off his juice he sets glass on a nearby chair which has been holding his breakfast plate. He turns back to watch the newcomer as he/she/it gets closer and closer.

She was watching the land, and briefly eyes the jack rabbit before a strange female chime perks her attention with a bizarre greeting.. Reflexively, her hand reached up to the brimg of the stay hat and tipped it lightly and lifted it slightly above her eye level see the man having breakfast and shiny beaked machine. In drawing closer, her hand habitually landed upon the wooden sheathe, her thtumb lightly pressing the hilt's guard. The dark green eyes recognise them a little better now. They left with Doc Ward and the body of Danny Boy, yet where was Augustus. So far, this was easy, but leaving might not be. As she grew closer, it was a bit more obvious that she was female, the black obi around her waist was tethered int oa butterfly bow in the back and made her conditioned shape a bit known, though whom knew if the bot could tell.

" Mornin'.." Her voice a bit sonorous with a rough drawl. Thankful it was the early morning or the sun would beat her dry in the hour walk to get here from town. " Evans sent me. Y'all didn't return, after yesterday, lot o people in town are shook up..." Noticably, in her approach, she steeed more toward charging bear and put a slight distance between herself and the machine, her face slightly turned to it, giving another wary look over. " Where's Augustos? Is.. Danny still alive?" She was a bit more cautious with hte later question, her dislike of hte machine passing for a moment to glance around for listening ears, the woman seemed rather on guard like she steps into a snake pit.

In reply to Dr. Dexter Ward (msg #31):

Chewing a mouthful of eggs in the conversational pause, Augustus swallows, making sure his mouth is clear before answering, "No idea.  I thought I was speaking to them a moment ago, but when I looked up...they had gone.  I am certain they are still about, but perhaps not in a conversational mood."  With a soft shrug, he begins to pick out his next mouthful, "I am still very interested in your demonstration, despite the previous night's excitement.  Will you still have the time today?  I'm certain you are a very busy man..."

"Yes. I still wish to present my demonstration, but last night several of my men fell victim to the evils of the drink and decided it was a good idea to try and intimidate the Marshal of Blackthorn, placing me in a rather...complicated situation." He sighs. "I intend to turn Nathanial Frost, who orchestrated this fiasco, over to the authorities in town. However, he is quite popular with the rest of the men, and while this is quite an admirable quality that has united them together and made them quite efficient, I fear they will resist turning him over to justice. I am going to have to confront them." He plays with his food a bit before he asks Augustus, "Tell me, would you be willing to assist me? That sonic device of yours might prove useful in avoiding violence."

Augustus can't help but smile as once again his work is praised.  Wiping his mouth lightly with his napkin, he quickly offers his affirmative, "I would certainly be willing to assist you, Doctor.  Non-lethal intervention /is/ what my Sonic Interrupter was designed to do."  He pauses for a moment, muttering something to himself, "nonsense....  its a good cause...."  Shrugging off whatever the stray thought was, the scientist looks up once more, "Do you intend to take him to town....or to send word for the marshal to come here?"  The reality of all this slowly begins to settle on his shoulders and he is beginning to look a bit nervous.  Despite his quick agreement.

"Well, Mr. Bear is actually one of the town's deputies, which makes things easier in that regard, though I intend to accompany him and see to it nothing untoward happens. Hopefully we can have this whole unpleasant mess sorted out before lunch."

In reply to Gangatsu (msg #39):

Charging Bear bow to the new comer, having not met her 'officially' yet. "Ko-nee-chi-wa" he said as he finished the deep bow, while not removing his eyes from the woman; the words are rough like a child just learning a language.

"Augustus is inside probably finishing his breakfast. As for Danny I'm not sure as there was a persons about last night that didn't take a liking to many of us. He attacked myself, Alouette and several of Dr Ward's men." He points to the bandage on his midsection. "I would've come back to town but the fella was particularly unkind to me.

What happened in town? I heard bits of yelling by Ward but couldn't make anything out.

The woman looked at him as he bowed to her respectfully and she had to pause, almost lke it was a joke in some fashion, she eyed Charging Bear for a moment before lOwering her head, her hand coming away from the pummel of the sheathed blade.

"..Os da sunalei.. Da qua dov Gangatsu." The woman started with greeting him, once again, yet this time in his native tongue. The asian knew Cherokee, it wasn't clumsy or slow, she understood what she was an introduction. She watched his face to make sure he understood what she said. Last thing she needed was to speek to the Native Son and he not understand a word of what she said. Some people think that's funny, but it's by being forced into the chinese society that she even knew how to speak it.

" That doesn't sound good, Them dust adders attack the town trying to drive Evans and the deputies out of town. I still got the dynamite from 'em trying to blow out the Grand Bull Saloon. The Marshal's office is gone, blasted to dust... And it gets a little crazy after that.. Ya know your voice, 'ight? Your heritage tongue. I'm gunna need someone on my side if I have to stay here long and I don't want to say all this out loud, 'speically wid this..." Lifts her chin slightly to Alouette. " Around... Might be harmless since yer eatin near it, but I dun't mess with machines.."


[Translation: Good morning, my name is Gangatsu.]

In reply to Dr. Dexter Ward (msg #43):

Augustus' eyes widen a little at the mention of Charging Bear being an officer of the law.  Maybe he never knew it, maybe he simply forgot.  Either way, he feels the need to loosen his collar a bit.  His hand scrapes against his face, finding it quite rough.  Happy to find a new topic, he offers, "I must look a fright.  With all the excitement last night and waking in a laundry, I haven't had a moment to clean my self up.  My apologies, sir.  This is no way to arrive at a host's breakfast table."  All true, but more likely just an easy way of steering the conversation and, perhaps, allowing him time to himself to consider his options...

"Ah. Of course. If you feel the need to freshen up, there is a powder room just upstairs. There is a quite competent barber in town, if you require his services. however, I must say you are in a better state for all your adventures than most who dine at my table. The Dust adders have shockingly poor table manners." Ward sips his orange juice.

"It was a damned soul wearing ash and dust," Alouette supplies. "Danny Albatross stopped moving and the cattlehands wanted to burn him or put him in he pit where the bodies are buried...self instructed: too much risk of contamination, sickness, witchcraft...so he is in the cold food room now and Dr.Ward says he wants an or-top-see before he lets Danny Albatross go to the church."

It looks up at Gangatsu, clearly hoping she'll change the doctor's mind. "Danny Albatross should go to the church, Fox With Large Knife," it says, recognising her now it can see under the hat. "-he needs to rest properly."

It cranes to see if Gangatsu's got anything. "Self is angel...what is dynamite? Where is Ambrose? Are you a man or a lady? ! "
The automaton finally notices the now impressive collection of ants on its sunwarmed surface. "Howdy, ant! ...ants...many ants..."

OOC: Sorry for the delay, my weekends tend to be full and this past one was no exception as I was working Staff at AWA (Anime Weekend Atlanta)

Charging Bear arches an eyebrow at Gangatsu's use of his native tongue. Replying in kind, "Good morning, Gangatsu. My name is Charging Bear and yes I know my voice"* it is obvious that this is his native tongue as there is no pause in the phrasing or words. He smiles, "But perhaps English would be best with Alouette. I heard some of what happen when Dr Ward's men returned last night, late."

Look back to Alouette and the ants makes him glad not to have them on him. "Alouette dynamite is an explosive. Ambrose is still in town and Gangatsu is a woman. Now stay there please, I'll get some water to help remove the ants, as I'm sure Dr Ward doesn't wish for them to be inside his house." He looks to Gangatsu, "Come let's see Dr Ward, and did you want something to eat?"


OOC:
*I've little to no knowledge of Cherokee/Tsalagi language and have no desire to butcher the language... so True-Type brown is used instead.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:31, Mon 20 Sept 2010.

At the offer of the chance to clean up, Augustus smiles gratefully, "Thank you, sir.  I really do appreciate it."  He glances down at his remaining food attempts to decide his course: finish breakfast first or clean himself up (and have a moment's priavacy to think).  He mutters a bit to himself, something about "...cleanliness...godliness....how he doesn't have a big ego, its just a saying..."  Ultimately manners (and privacy) seems to win out against his stomach and he rises from the table, with a last wistful look. "If you'll excuse me, Doctor,"  with that he begins to head for the afforementioned powder room..unless anyone's arrival stops him....

As there's no one to stop Augustus at the moment, with Abraham in the kitchen and the others outside, Augustus reaches the powder room quickly, there to be alone with his thoughts.

"Gangatsu has legs!" Alouette exclaims, pointing. It's never seen a woman without a full-length skirt before. "Dr.Ward is hostile to ants?"

There's a long, still pause, since watching all the ants takes up most of the thing's ready thinking power. If Gangatsu's still about it'll address her with "Where does dynamite live?"

"I don't think so but most people find ants unpleasant as they tend to bite us." Charging Bear says with a smile. With that he will walk inside the house.

"Ah! Greetings, Mr. Bear!" Ward says to Charging Bear as soon as he comes into view. "I was wondering where you'd gone off to. Would you care for some breakfast?" He's probably not aware that CB had already eaten. "I had something I wished to discuss with you, though it can wait until you've breakfasted."

With a slight nod Charging Bear smiles and sets down an empty glass and plate upon the table. "I've already enjoyed the fine cooking of your man. I went out side to make sure Alouette didn't cause more trouble for him as well as to enjoy the morning air."

Ward chuckles. "Yes. Our Friend Alouette has certainly caused quite a disturbance for Abraham." he says, then pushes away his plate. "Very well. I suppose I shall get down to business, then. Last night, while we were having our troubles here, some of my hands decided to get rowdy in town. Apparently, they attempted to run Marshal Evans out on a rail. The ringleader of this little escapade, Nathanial Frost, has crossed a line, and needs to face the consequences of his actions. I intend to turn him over to the Marshal, but there is a complication."

He leans back. "Nathanial is popular with the men, and I do not know if they would be willing to turn him over to the law simply on my say so. I will confront them, and I was hoping that I could count on your support when I do, as you are a representative of the Law. I am hopeful that this will not be a violent confrontation, but I wish to be prepared in case things turn for the worse. Would you kindly assist me?"

"I'm not sure it is a kindness, but I will aid you in this. It seems another deputy has just arrived, perhaps with similar intentions." Charging Bear glances toward the door he had just come through. "Perhaps we would do well to detain Mr Frost now before he and the others have had a chance to awaken."

Ward nods. "Very well. I shall wait for Mr. Spotswood, who has also agreed to accompany us, to return from the powder room."

He stands, and clears the plates from the table.

Charging Bear nods, "Then we wait for Mr Spotswood then."

In the privacy of the powder room, Augustus undresses down to his undershirt and pours out the jug of water into the washbasin.  Scooping up the water in his hands, he scrubs at his face, trying to scrub away all the dirt and confusion of past days.  Wet hands are run through his hair and he stares at himself in the mirror.

"Well, what is to be done with you, Mr. Spotswood?  Sooner or later these lawmen are bound to catch word of you..."  A cough racks him.  Nasty, bilious black fluid is spit out into the basin.  He reaches for a towel and looks back to the mirror again.

The man in the mirror, stained lips smiles back for a moment, "Augustus...  That cough is getting worse...  Do you /really/ want to walk away from the Doctor's offer?  He could help...  Maybe he could protect you..."

The scientist eyes his reflection suspiciously, "Or maybe he'll just turn us in for the criminal we are.  he's got every right.  Respectable doctor can't be associating with lawbreakers."

Again the the reflection-self gave a smirk, "Ah, but this "respectable" Doctor allready works with bad men.  He's trying to keep them on the straight and narrow, maybe make something good.  He /wants/ to help people just like you."

Augustus is taken aback by this revelation.  Its true, though he hadn't considered it.  Scrubbing at his face with a towel, he mutters, "Maybe by helping Doctor Ward I can scrub away the tarnish of my past."  Invigorated by his thoughts, he turns and begins to dress again.  He brushes out his jacket and shakes out his shirt.

For a long while, the stained-lip reflection in the mirror watches its more tangible half.  A black smile grows wider.

--

Refreshed, Augustus steps out of the powder room and heads back towards the dining room.  A bit more spring to his step.  Upon seeing the gathered group, he smiles and clasps his hands, "So...when do we start?"

Gangatsu was a little distracted by the news the Alouette shared. Danny was dead, and the Doc was planning to slice him up and perhaps even burn the fellow up and burn him like the other bodies the Undertaker taken care of.  Her brow narrowed and this mechanical creature kept trying to talk to her. She glared at it a little and  moved away again as it spoke to her. A sharp perk of her brow as  Charging Bear wished to share information with this walking tinker, was he mad? It had the mind power of a child.


" Pardon?" She partially growled, the man explaining the dynamite and the fact that she was a lady. The machine didn't seem to know she had legs, as if ladies float on air under their long dresses, but the Fox eyes narrowed in a bit of annoyance. She was not a social being in any regards and the only person she trusts was in her head and a crafty sonavabitch.

" A fox in da hen house makes a big commo'ion. Someone wit' a gun's gunna notice it, darlin'. Step lightly now."

Her eyes narrows, the soft clink and chime s that sound like spurs made her eyes shift at the movement. SHe didn't notice that Charging Bear was headingin inside, offering her breakfast, she had been lost in her world of thought.

" No, don't.." Her warning coming too late, she hesitated, but that man moved on before she could tell him of everything. Shit. This wasn't good! She looked to the automan and her lip curled slightly in a slient swear.

" Machine... You follow me. I was here to try and save Danny, but if he's dead. I can't let Doc Ward burn him. He's a victum in all this. My fault I brought him back to town.... Dammit, I hope you understand.. Don't say nothin' about what I say unless your talkin around Ambrose, you hear me, thing?" Her shoulder rolls a bit, grabbing her sword's hilt before looking to the door. Adjusting the straw hat and moving to hte door with a bit of trepidation.

" They skin foxes in Texas, don'dey?"

The man said with a skeletal grin forever ripped open on his face. The image so vivid, she almost wavered from the strench of his rotting corpse, but that imagry flashed away, leaving only the queasy feeling of her breakfast unsettling within the pit of her stomache. She pressed on and although the urge to take off her sandals upon entrying the house irked her, she didn't comply.  Walking in through the empty door, she hear a little bit of the explaination and only a flair of her nostrils to the man's insight on what happen. Spotswood soon joined while the raven haired woman stewed in her silent rage.

" No one's gunna help you, Doctor Ward.. Why should they.." The ominous sound of the samurai came in, her hand at the ready with her sword. " Did you tell them that the Adder's blew up the Marshal's station and tried to do the same at the Grand Bull Saloon? They tried to KILL Ambrose Evans, town folk, deputies, and a couple of travellers like myself and little Katy Devons. I have the dynamite from that damn night. I, and a lot o other folks, seen Nathaniel Frost unviel his face and shoot Evans. I disarmed the wily bastard and Evan's happened to live. I have Frost's gun and the speical ghost rock powder bullet he did it with..." Her free arm went out side and dug in her pack, her voice growing a bit harsher in tone.

" Did you tell them the truth about those six Yankee boys that were imprisioned and harvestin' Ghost Rock like this. In a mine shaft. On your property, Doctor Ward? The woman picked up a blue jacket piece that looked like it was cut from a uniform, the contents was a black and white speckled two ounce of Ghost Rock and actually passed it away from herself to Alouette. "Did you tell them about Tex? My, that's a big secret to keep, but all this land, don't have to worry about people poking around.. Did you tell them that you paid off the undertaker to burn the bodies. You ought to be arrested and sentenced for the murder of the Yankee, Danny and trying to cover up whatever you done to them.. His blood was too thick for him to bleed out." She moved forth toward Doctor ward with a suspicious motion, looking at the man, this man whom was the catalyst of it all. He had to be. He was the only one with money and power over the whole town.

" You dealin' wit oni-orochitengu, Doctor Ward, that demon serpent from that christian bible?" Her tone mellowed for a moment, sounding sincerely curious, though her lip quivered lightly, either in madness or sorrow,  it brimmed in her eyes at the horrible thought. " Like Gus did fer his brother, Tex? Hmm? What did you offer, what you get out o it? Was it worth bringing up all this ill-will on to others for a jump in power? Was it worth your very life to hurt people like me? Tell me! He's DeAd! My beloved! Ripped apart by time I found a half of his body. What in the hell did you do, you evil fu'kin bastard?!"

"Ah. There you are." Dr. Ward says as Augustus heads downstairs. "Good, now that we are all assembled--" he's cut off as Gangatsu barges into the room and launches into her tirade.

The gentleman listens impassively as she yells at him, his demeanor growing more stern and his frown deepening with her every word. Though it's the start of a warm day, the temperature seems to drop a dozen degrees as he glares at the raging Asian.

There is a silence that stretches over a minute after Gangatsu finishes her rant before Ward replies.

"I see. I do not know where you have heard these vile lies and slanders, madam, but you have been gravely misinformed as to the content of my character, and I will not stand for it."

"We gentlemen here have, just this very moment, been discussing the incident last night. I assure you that I take Nathanial Frost's cowardly assault on Dr. Evans most seriously, and we were, in fact, on our way to apprehend him for his crimes." He begins pulling one of his gloves off, finger by finger.

"As for the outlaws and renegades you mention, they are criminals, bushwhackers of the most perfidious sort, murderers, thieves, and brigands who had the temerity to camp on my land, raid my herd, shoot my hands, and Lord knows what other crimes. Any ill treatment they received when they were captured and being held was just deserts for their wickedness. Be that as it may, I had done nothing but care for the injuries and ill-health of young Daniel, as Friend Alouette here can personally attest to, and you would lay blame for his death on my hands without the slightest shred of evidence? For shame!" He walks closer to Gangatsu, and the temperature seems to fall even lower.

"And then you accuse me of witchcraft and devilry? You slander me, madam. You insult my honor, and I allow no man, woman, or other being to do so without redress."

He slaps her across the face with the glove.

"I challenge you to defend your accusations against my character tonight at sunset along the creekbed near this house. Pistols at ten paces. You may appear there yourself, if you have the courage, or you may appoint a champion to stand in on your behalf. Either way, I demand satisfaction for the slight against my honor. Now, kindly leave this place or I will have you thrown out and dragged behind a horse off my land."

He turns away from her sharply and returns to the others. "Gentlemen, I apologize for this interruption. Let us return to the business at hand."

[[OOC: O_O Shit just got real!]]
This message was last edited by the player at 08:28, Thu 23 Sept 2010.

Charging Bear watches the interchange with a look of confusion. His mind is racing, Why is she doing this here and now... with only me to back her up... is she mad? This has become a train wreak.. then Dr Ward slapped Gangatsu with the glove and issuing of the dual. This caused Charging Bear to perk up, he didn't know much about either combatant but a dual... that won't end well for anyone.

"Dr Ward ... perhaps the young lady speaks hastily, but she is here with the authority of the sheriff. I can not allow you to simply toss her out as you suggest." He turns to Gangatsu, shifting to his native tongue "You would do well to keep your wits about you. Even if Ward is dealing with the snake it won't do anyone good to provoke him."

Gus had spent the night in Ward's parlor, recovering from the gunshot. He had dreamed of...well, it wasn't important what he dreamed of, only that it was bad.

He was a bit muddled when he woke, dragged out of the depths of sleep by raised voices. On of them was the boss.

He pulled himself up, grabbed his gunbelt, yawned, and staggered out towards the foyer where all the yelling was.

"Can't a man get no sleep?" he grumbled...just in time to see the boss slap some chink woman across the face and tell her to get off his land or be dragged out.

This woke him up fully. Ward was furious, and that was bad for all concerned.

"Um, boss? What...what's goin' on?" he said, hesitantly.

---

Danny Boy was bored, and was sick to death (so to speak) of playing dead. He stood up inside the tiny pantry. There was shouting coming from somewhere...good. That sounded like a distraction.

He lay his hands on the door. The pantry was locked, but the weak point of any door was the hinges. He pictured the wood growing old, fatigued, drying out, termites eating away at the inside...and the wood responded. He didn't notice the dried goods around him spontaneously spoiling, growing rancid, and sprouting molds and mildew...he hadn't realized his sense of smell was gone.

Soon, beneath Danny's hands, one part of the door was much, much older than the rest. It would give with a good, hard shove, and Danny could be free. He braced himself, and prepared to escape.

Augustus is quite taken aback by te swordswoman's entrance.  Though it isn't directed at him, he can't help but back away a step or two.  To stay out of the line of "ire", as it were.  Blinking rapidly, he tries to follow it all, nodding to some points and looking very skeptical at others.  A few times he even mutters some arguments to himself about said points, but seems generally to disagree with himself and with the swordswoman.

Raising a finger, he begins to attempt a rebuttal on the good Doctor's behalf...and is interrupted by the issuing of a duel.  The gentleman in him, rather than the scientist, is spurred to action.  He steps over near Dr. Ward, saying with as much gentlemanly authority as he can muster, "I will be your second, if you'll agree, sir."  Leaning a little bit closer to the Doctor, he adds with a whisper, "But the Indian has a point...  It is no loss of honor to forgo a duel with an impetuous /woman/, even though she carries herself as a fighting man."

She flaired a bit, not even to evil dog that came close, but it's disgusting glove swatted at her. It made a slap of material to skin yet  smouldering emerald eyes only watched, her sword pulled up a little from it's sheathe as he turned his back to her.

 Her eyes shifted to Augustus as he stepped closer to Doctor Wards side to speak of something.. Gangatsu turned her head in listening to Charging Bear.  To keep her wit. He said this to a mad woman with a death wish, this was the bastard responsible for it all and no one was eager to kill him as much as Gangatsu. It wouldn't set everything right, but it was the only thing she could think of for years was finding the man responsible. She canted her head toward Charging Bear. " You didn't want to wait to hear me out. You had to say I was here. You have failed to be help, you might as well have marked me dead. He wants a duel, i'll take his witching idle hands."

 Though her eyes turned to the new man that entered and her narrowed brow softened slightly.. Staring at the man with a mix of disbelief, her head tilting slightly to the side with a bit of befuddlement that urged her to take a step closer to a white-haired Gus Shaw. Her finger pointed up toward his head as if  someone could honestly look at it and say that nothing was odd about this place or this Doctor Ward. " How did you do that to yerself.."

Ward nods to Augustus. "I accept. I might be willing to consider withdrawing the challenge, if she is willing to offer a public apology for her slander or finds some other way to make amends. But I have been wronged, and I cannot in good faith allow such horrible things to be said about me unchallenged. Would you, if our positions were reversed?"

In response to Charging Bear, he frowns and shakes his head. "Her haste does not excuse her shockingly barbaric and uncivilized behavior, and I see no evidence that she is here with any authority at all beyond your say so. Furthermore, you are here at my invitation; she is not, and has no business here. Unless she has a warrant or some other official documentation I consider her nothing less than a trespasser on my property." that coldness creeps back into his voice. "Furthermore, while you are a guest in my home, do not presume that you may allow or disallow me anything. Are we understood, Mr. Bear?"

He turns to Gus and, not replying to his question, simply states "Mr. Shaw, please escort this troublesome female off my property. By force, if you must."

Alouette hesitates somewhat to follow Gangatsu, having been told to stay put by Charging Bear, but patters up in good time to be handed some ghost rock. It promptly 'eats' it, unnoticed under the tempest of Gangatsu's wrath. It was just making to warn her that Dr.Ward will shoot her from ten paces away when he makes that very offer.

"Ambrose said Dr.Ward was not a witch, Gangatsu," it puts in, "he has traces of the sickness, too - high probabability from witched butter." It looks from one duellist to the other. "Y'all feel of angry..."

It offers Dr.Ward the vegetable steamer, then goes over and puts a gentle hand on Gus' bandaged chest (if he doesn't move sharpish). "You mustn't blow her up with a horse, Gus Shaw; don't hurt her."

Leaving Gus to make friends with his new generous quota of ants, the automaton makes to head kitchenwards, where it last saw water.

Looking down at the small woman, Charging Bear is obviously less than thrilled at her and the situation she's put him in, "I'm sorry, was there more to your coming out here than to see how those of us who were here had faired through the night... yes that's right you wanted to kill Dr Ward on his own land, where if other people weren't here he would kill you and bury you in a field, and no one would know the wiser. If you had remained quiet he would have come to town quietly with Frost, and you could have dealt with all of this there."

Taking a moment to cool off, he looks back toward Dr Ward, "I'm sorry I can't allow Gus to take this woman anywhere, Dr Ward. He can't be trusted, as he's twice tried to kill me, even after you said I was your guest."

Gus does, in fact, move quickly away from Alouette. He avoids an infestation of ants by doing this, and doesn't respond to the machine.

"What are you talking about?" He says in reply to Gangatsu's question.

He also responds to Charging Bear's accusations of attempted murder.

"You are a goddamn dirty liar, redskin!" Gus protests. "I ain't never took a shot at you except in self-defense!"

Ward pinches the bridge of his nose. "Fine. Go along with them if you do not feel Mr. Shaw is trustworthy. However, the longer this matter takes to resolve, the more time Frost has to secure himself a bolt hole and make his arrest more difficult. I leave the choice up to you, but I want her removed from my property."

"Doc...are you really gonna turn Nate in?" Gus asks.

"I do." Ward scowls. "And it is high time you made a decision on where you stand, Angus Shaw. I realize he is your friend, but he has crossed a line and will need to make amends. If you find this unacceptable, you are free to seek employment for you and your brother elsewhere."

"Look, don't make me do this. I...I can't..."

Ward's face softens. "I'm not asking you to accompany us when we apprehend him. But you cannot protect him from his folly. He must be made to face his mistakes. Remember that incident at Red Ford that you told me about? Take those lessons you learned that day to heart, Gus, and do not despair."

Gus screws up his face in confusion. "Red Ford? But that's where...oh...Oh! Yeah! Yeah, I get it now...right. Has to learn his lesson and all. Got it." He makes a face. "Don't mean I have to like it, though." He turns to Gangatsu. "Right. You ain't welcome here no more." he says, gesturing to the door, then glares at Charging Bear. "You gonna do anything about it, redskin?"

Meanwhile, in the kitchen Abraham looks up and groans loudly at Alouette's return into his life. "Oh, Lordy Lord. What brings you back here, you walking mountain of trouble?"

Charging Bear remains quiet waiting for Gangatsu to say something.

[Private to GM: Hey boss man, where'd my and Jack Two-Feathers intro thread go to?]

"Not mountain, My Man Abraham; self is angel," Alouette corrects mildly. "Have come to show the ants the water-" it holds up an ant-covered arm to show the butler before carrying on:

"-Called Charging Bear was going to bring it, but he has another thing to do because Dr.Ward is going to shoot Gangatsu from ten paces away later but she's going to another place first. Where does dynamite live?" It stands with head tilted a moment, ticking. "Also, do you have an orange?"

Augustus was at a loss for words at the Doctor's question of what he might do in the Doctor's shoes.  He was a gentleman, bound by honor to avenge such slights.  But...this was a /woman/.  Surely the rules didn't apply the same way.  He also cannot bring himself to admit that Gangatsu actually does frighten him.  All these thoughts remain generally unvoiced as he stands nearby to the Doctor.  He does mutter a bit of his internal dialogue, though.  Playing both sides in his own private argument.

" Silence. You know nothing of my intent. I have not traveled to kill Ward or I would have done so the moment he he came close. You need to see the whole picture and not your narrow vision based on assumption and probability. If you can't see what you said is wrong, your blind. I know what I was doing, perhaps you could take a lesson on it. " The woman looked to Augustus for a moment once again, he opinion was up in the air, but if he was siding

" Your hair's white.." Was all she said to Gus Shaw for a moment. People said there peace and she lifted her head after a moment when Gus, whom gained a new strange look from the green eyed asian woman. Charging Bear was silent and the machine had wondered around, though Gatsu was not swayed to avoid the creation.

" He is too." Was all she said to the metallic bird that continued on it's merry way. For a moment she envied the machine that by all means shouldn't seem joyous, yet it was.If all automans were like that, she could perhaps see the marvel in it..

Ward went on about how he might drop the challenge if she was willing to do something for him in paying back or amending for this tresspass, but insisted that she would be removed. Know, one that wasn't blinded by anger, grief, and the ready knowledge this man was guilty as sin, the real Gangatsu would take a step back objectively to  make amends and see what else could be found around the area, but none of that was really her objective. She was here for her own reasons, a search for answers and to settle it..

" I ain't no deputy and I ain't putting on airs that I am. Charging Bear assumed I am. Like hell i'd be a hypocrite to me code, I know i done some things in my own sense of justice. I ain't sorry or hasty, I don't want to be excused or pardon,I ain't taking back what I said about you.  Though I will give a doubt that crossed my mind right now... You either know it's true and refuse to see it outta distgust fer yourself." Which was something she could personally understand, though she hasn't even forgiven herself, let alone anyone else for it. Why start now? " Or your believing the version o truth your men tells ya, leaving you in the dark about some really surly things you can easily be blamed for just as it is now... Maybe it ain't your fault at all, I'll conceed ta dat.. But your guilty to all of it. Just as bad as the Witchita Witches."  He blade slinks back into  the sheath and she turns. " I'll see you outside of town rather then the creekbed. At sunset, when you bring in Nathan Frost to be turned over ta Evans, Doc Ward. Not like they got a cell to put him in anymore thanks to your boys.... My sword against your bullet. No magic, No ghost rock powder. Hate for ya to be a cheat too. "

The Cherokee man implores that she should not run off alone with Gus Shaw. As a woman whom wasn't use to a man looking out for her best interest or even to be generous enough to give a sort of chivalry given her life is possibly in danger. "  If Gus sees me off, then fine. I don't need a deputy in on it as well.. "

"If you doubt your skill with a pistol, you should have considered that before you made your statements." Ward says. "It will be firearm against firearm, at the creekbed to avoid the sun being in either combatant's face. Two dueling pistols, one shot each. If you raise your blade against me there, I will be well within my rights to defend myself by whatever methods I choose. You have the option of asking a second to fight in your place, if someone as uncouth as you can find anyone to stand for her. Good day to you."

Gus moves over to Gangatsu and lays a hand on her shoulder. "Come on, little girl. Time to go."He absently fingers his hair, before shaking his head.

Meanwhile, in the kitchen...

Abraham looks at Alouette. "Show the ants...Gah! No! Get out of here! Don't track ants all over my kitchen! Get out! Go on! Shoo!" he cries out, ignoring the other questions as he tries to keep the pests (large and small) out of his space.

But it's about this time, while the black servant is occupied with Alouette, that the pantry door bursts open with a *CRASH!* that can be heard in the foyer, and Danny Boy tumbles out. He stands, looks around, then grabs a knife from a countertop and then launches himself at Abraham. he grabs the old man, puts him in an armlock, and holds the blade up to his neck. "If ye so much as scream, old man, I'll give ye another grin." he says, then glares at Alouette. "Play dead, ye tell me. Didn't fucking work. I'm doing this my way now."

[Private to Charging Bear: Looks like it's on the second page of the Game Menu. I did not know that games with a lot of threads eventually got second pages. Learning new things every day!]

"actually Dr Ward the lady is allowed to select the weapons, not you." Charging Bear says, almost off handedly.

"Provided the weapons are equal, sir. They are not. If she wishes to duel with swords, I have a pair of cavalry sabers. Are you stepping in as her Second, then, to ensure all rules are observed, and to fight in her place if need be?"

Before he can get a reply, there's a crash from the kitchen...

The clank sidles away from the shooing, springing back to try and get between mortal and knife, too late. It's uncomfortably close, though.

"Did not tell you, Danny Albatross...also, your life ended plus-minus one day ago - only the bird in your chest keeps you moving. If you leave My Man Abraham and run, one mile, that direction-" it points "-you will reach the church, where you can claim sanctuary and Father O'Rourke can cure you of the want for all dead and for human flesh, to save what remains of Daniel-who-was-born. If you wait here, you will be *crkl* witch-stopped -shot and cut up until your bird cannot help you, and your soul may be destroyed."

These somewhat philosophical points made, it tilts its head in a mime of listening. "If you hurt My Man Abraham in any way, self is not required to protect you. You are already heard."

[Private to GM: willing to redchip persuasion if required/sensical - dunno when I'll next have 'net access...if necessary presume the clank will try to keep its albatross alive, but mortals are always priority. if Danny runs, it'll follow, to watch out for those around rather than to catch]

[[OOC: just something I want to mention to everyone...

Due to the presence of a rabid jackalope in the area, no one can spend Fate chips in Ward's house until the jackalope is killed, driven off, or loses interest.]]

"Or I take the old man with me, and no one tries any funny business until I get a horse, and leave this town for fuckin' ever!" Danny growls, pulling Abraham towards the back door.

Alouette walks after the hostage-taker with mechanical implacability.
"Horses are not near, Danny Albatross. If you do not go to the church, there is nowhere the snake in Gus Shaw cannot track you. It will fix him better than your bird fixes you, for it is much bigger...it is also faster, and can see where you have been as easily as an angel."

It'll reach for Danny's wrist if it can get near enough, inhuman, crawling with ants and softly hissing with static, intent unreadable. "He will do worse than kill you."

Augustus was once again raising his finger to interrupt with a point regarding weapon choice.  But, once again, he is beaten to the punch.  He mutters to himself, "...be quiet... I /was/ going to mention it... Then stop distracting me...".  His eyes flick from each in the room in turn, feeling more and more uncomfrtable with each passing moment. Tension only becoming thicker.

Then a crash is heard, Augustus jumps in surprise, grabbing his chest, "Good lord!"  But, his quick scientist's mind deduces the likely source.  With a grateful laugh, he says, "I'm sure Alouette is just causing more havoc in the kitchen again.  If you'll excuse me, I'll see to the machine."  With that, he makes to quickly leave the far too tense room and into the much more comfortable realm of mad machinery...

Of course, what he does walk in on is a ostage situation involving the mad automaton, a dead man, and the very kind servant.  "Oh....my..."

Charging Bear hears the noise from the kitchen and leaves the discussion of dueling and seconds behind. His feet carrying him towards where Danny Boy is dragging Abraham away. It takes the native son but a moment to assess things, and he does what comes naturally. With quick and smooth motion he pulls one of his paired tomahawks and launches it at Danny Boy.

OOC: Range is 3" on the Tomahawk
18:49, Today: Charging Bear rolled 2,13 using 1d4,1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 2,(6+6+1)13. Throwing.
18:49, Today: Charging Bear rolled 3,4 using 2d6,1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 1,2,4. Damage (Str, Tomahawk, Raise).
Great throwing... not so great damage... oh well

[[OOC: Charging Bear, roll me an agility check to see if you can interrupt him before he uses his Held action to kill the hostage.]]

OOC: looks like he beat me with that 9 you rolled... argh!
21:01, Today: Charging Bear rolled 6,5 using 1d8+2,1d6+2, rerolling max with rolls of 4,3. Agility.

"Stay back! all of you! I will kill him! I mean it!" he shouts as more people file into the kitchen.

The instant Charging Bear bursts into the room, Danny screeches "NO!" and stabs down, but the knife only rips through the servant's shirt collar as the Native Son's tomahawk slices through the soldier's shoulder. Blackened blood oozes from the wound as the man drops the knife and Abraham ducks out of his grip.

[[OOC: Yeah, but I didn't take into account his Wound penalties, which drop him down to 7. He still wins.

He gets a free attack. +4 for The Drop, -2 for wounds...Danny Boy rolled 4,4 using d6+2,d6+2, rerolling max with rolls of 2,2. That is actually less than Abraham's Parry of 5. He misses.

Since he can't spend a chip for a soak against CB's attack. He's Shaken.]]

[Private to Augustus Spotswood: Roll a Guts check for me, -2 for your Doubting Thomas hindrance, -4 for the Fear level, +1 for your grit...Augutsus has just seen a dead man walking. And remember, no chips thanks to the Jackalope]

The scientist's eyes go wide and wider still at the sight of the hostage-taking dead man.  He splutters, "But...but...you're..."  At this point he gets knocked out of the charging Charging Bear's way.  Thumping into the wall, a cough wells up in his chest and he scrambles for a kerchief.  Coughing, spluttering, muttering, "Impossible...  shut up, yes it is..."

She moved, her eyes shifting at the loud clatter the Augustus passed off as the machine making a mess.. Yet Charging bear had the interest as well and soon she heard the shoutting of a familar voice. All the while, she was slow in her steps, nearly soujourn with Gus following to lead her out.. Well.. She might as well follow the rest of the crowd, it wasn't just Alouette beign a menace, but she heard Danny practically screaming at soemone.

Heading toward the kitchen, she could always exit throguh there, she could see the door on the far end of the wall, yet as she entered, someone rushed at her and, out of instinct, her fist  jeted out and collided, With Abraham! Not that gatsu would know this was just a servent of Doctor Ward. Good job, halfblood.


Rolled [1,1] Crittical failure. Harmed Innocent bystander.
Damage roll [4,3] Total damage 7.

Ward follows behind the rest as the commotion worsens. He draws forth a small black derringer from his waistcoat, and, seeing Danny up and moving once more, raises it eye level, takes aim at the dead man's head, and fires. There is a flash and the wail of Ghost Rock, but the bullet goes wide of the mark and only clips Danny Boy's ear.

[[OOC: Dr. Ward draws, moves, and fires. He makes a Called Shot at Danny's head. His modifiers are -2 (Multi-action), -4 (called shot), +3 (circumstantial bonus from the gun), for a net of -3.

Dr. Dexter Ward rolled -1,2 using d4-3,d6-3, rerolling max with rolls of 2,5. Shooting!. About as well as could be expected, given the many mods. At least he doesn't hit any bystanders.]]

---

I'm running this fight as a narrative, not in rounds, so just go ahead and post as you get the opportunity.

Powerful yet graceful, like that of a large cat or perhaps a bear, would be best used to describe the native son as he crosses the kitchen. His second tomahawk seems to appear in hand as he closes in on Danny Boy. Charging Bear swings the 'primitive' weapon as though it were an extension of his arm.

OOC:
10:42, Today: Charging Bear rolled 13,4 using 1d8,1d6, rerolling max with rolls of (8+5)13,4. Fighting.
10:43, Today: Charging Bear rolled 4,2,2 using 1d8,1d6,1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 4,2,2. Damage (Str, Tomahawk, Raise).
Another shaken result... ugh!

Augustus stumbles back away from the fighting as it gets more and more crowded.  More and more confusing.  Grabbing his head, he tries to collect his thoughts, "Dead men can't walk around....  Unless...  Of course!  It was all an act!"  The scientist stands straighter and heads for his satchel and the sonic weapon therein, "That blackguard...  That dastardly liar...  My Sonic Interruptor will deal with him."  Then he hears a gunshot, "I'd best hurry!!"

Danny flails as the native son carves into him, dropping to his knees. "Please...just want to get away..." He says, looking up at Charging Bear with a pleading look on his face.

[[OOC: As Danny is Shaken already, Charging Bear's cut deals a wound, dropping him to three wounds total.

Danny spends his turn trying to unshake. Danny Boy rolled -2,0 using d8-3,d6-3, rerolling max with rolls of 1,3. Unshake. Not even close.]]

Alouette's mostly concerned with getting the knife away from Abraham, then the mortal away from the fight, but it changes tactic abruptly when Ward fires...moving to get between Danny and the attacking parties, interfering with Charging Bear's next swing even as it stands on the knife dropped by the would-be escapee.

"Cease, Called Charging Bear - wendigo blood is infective, dangerous!" To Danny, it adds: "Do not bite him."

Charging Bear stands over the almost dead yankee, his face touched by sadness and in a whisper says, "If you had stayed quiet... you might have gotten away." The native son reaches down and picks up Danny by the arm.

Danny glowers as he's hauled to his feet. "Spare me your sympathy, Reb." He spits out as he's hauled to his feet.

Ward looks at the assembled. "Well, now. This is an unpleasant situation. I have a dead man walking around my kitchen. Whatever shall I do with you?"

"How about ye fuck off and die?" Danny snarls.

"Would you kindly spare me your coarse and vulgar speech? You have been nothing but rude and disagreeable since you entered this house." Ward glares back.

Danny opens his mouth, but though he moves his mouth and there are a few gasps and gags from the back of his throat, no actual intelligible words form.

"That's better. But the question remains...whatever shall we do with our erstwhile corpse?"

Augustus charges back to the doorway, his humming sonic cannon at the ready.  "Take this, scoundrel," he offers and hefts his weapon to take aim.  Only to see the excitement is through and the sickly Yankee being hauled up to his feet.  The scientist seems almost...annoyed that he didn't get to fire and takes a moment to lower his device from his shoulder.

He does note the rather ruffled Abraham and moves that way. Kneeling down, he offers the servant a hand up, "Are you alright?  Were you injured?"

Gangatsu stood aside, if he was the walking dead, then it will have to be slain. The crackling scream of a gunshot came out and she gritted ehr teeth at the sound, sheilding the side of her head at it. She never heard on of those within an inclosed space, shit how could someoen get use to that horrible sound! But he missed and honestly, that made her feel good about the duel later.

Charging Bear was on the attack and she heard a familar plea from Danny that she knew not to trust or you get a gun thrown in your face. Now, Augustus somehow came to the conclusion that Danny wasn't dead, but infact had pretended to be so. His stay here must have been dangerous indeed to make people back off from him in an attempts to escape, perhaps. Though if he was a dead man... Well, he wasn't going barking mad. By the sound of his lip off to Ward, he was in his right mind from her stand point. She smirked lightly though it disappeared after amoment as Ward wondered aloud of what to do..

" Doctor Ward, seems I owe ya an apology. Danny, accordin to the mad man wit' de queer gun, is alive and I reckon Charging Bear will be takin him back to town since you did, actually, help him. So. Sorry.. Now, eh.. Would you kindly put the gun away.. Hmm? Any chance o d'at?. " Her eyes shift a bit. " Though, i'll take 'im back since Chargin Bear is busy and i'm leavin.. He should survive teh trip back into town.."

"Oh, I expect I shall survive, sir." The negro says in response to Augustus. "But I am grateful for your concern." And he sounds like he means it.

[[OOC: Done in IM between Gangatsu and myself]]

As Abraham gathers himself up, Dr. Ward raises an eyebrow at Gangatsu. "An apology from you, my dear? why, I think I may just die of shock. If you are sincere, however, I may be willing to consider all forgiven and call off this duel of ours."

"Of  course I'm sincere. He ain't dead and his judgments clearly intact." She growls back. Yes, sincere, but  she obviously didn't like his tone.  "I still think you're evil, you just didn't kill anyone. Making that clear. I ain't scared ta fight you. I'm looking forward it .. Except the gun part.."

"Let it not be said that I did not offer you a chance to back out, then. If you are concerned about the gunplay, then perhaps you should have considered that before barging into a gentleman's home and insulting his honor to his face." Ward responds, waving his hand airily. "I don't know where you picked up such vile and dishonorable behavior...I was lead to understand your race had a deep understanding of such matters."

"I didn't say I reject it, I'm sayin' that fightin you would be a priority.. And would you prefer me to insult you behind your back? Eh. Had no intent on meetin ya in the first place." Gangatsu scowls. "And careful, doc. I was born in Shan Fan and while I should smile politely despite my anger, I don't feel like a stereotyped chink today, if that's okay with the powerful white man in his pretty little ranch..."

"Someone who would spread such slanders as you've said today behind a person's back is nothing more than a rabid mongrel cur, and should be shot down on that basis." Ward replies. "Before today I have never met you, nor given you any injury or insult. Tell me, who is it that has poisoned you towards me, so that I may confront them for their lies?"

"No offense, Doc, but you got some balls to tell me I oughta be shot, but frankly you could use that ghost rock bullet more d'hen me."  She shifted and the man wondered and began to digress with his curiosity.  "Why blame others. Maybe your innocent, maybe your fakin it. Won't know til I get more answers..."

Ward gives her a hard look. "I said nothing of the kind. You asked my opinion, I provided it. And if you have formed such thoughts about me, without us even having met, then it means that someone one has been saying unkind things without having the internal fortitude to at least do so to my face. Would you kindly tell me who has told you these things you've heard?"

Her green eyes haven't wavered from his face, she was watching him closely, intently. "No. I'll tell ya when you tell me somethin I wanna know, Doctor Ward. So til then You deal with me and my 'misguide beliefs', eh. I won't be too rude ta ya in the future. Just cause you seem uncomfortable." She smiled politely with a slight cant of her head. "It's gettin later in the noon. I should be movin'..."

Ward suddenly goes weak in the knees and slumps into the counter. He catches himself before he collapses completely, but he looks dizzy and disoriented. He takes a few deep breaths as he leans against the countertop. A curl of blood dribbles from his nose.

Augustus helps Abraham to his feet again and amanges to catch something about a "mad man with a queer gun."  It takes a moment to realize that she was referring to him.  Sniffing a bit, he stands straighter, muttering to himself, "I'm not mad..  A little put out maybe, but it has been a very stressful few days..."  He tries to keep it quiet so as not to interrupt the exchange.  As Dr. Ward begins to slump, he snaps to action again and moves to catch the man.  If not hold him up, at least provide stability to go no further and stand up again himself.

Watching the scene, Charging Bear feels as though he's walked into a den of mad men (and women). "No quarter asked... He reaches over and pulls his thrown tomahawk from Danny Boy's shoulder. "...none given." He holds the boy upright. After a moment, the native son reaches over and grabs a wash cloth that Abraham was probably using to dry dishes. Taking both of the yankee's hands and tying them together, Charging Bear looks to Gangatsu. "Do take him with you."

OOC: Guessing this is an Agility roll
09:12, Today: Charging Bear rolled 3,9 using 1d8,1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 3,(6+3)9. Agility.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:15, Wed 29 Sept 2010.

 Ward Wavered and his nose started to gain a drop of blood. Her brow lifts in curiousity. Was his heart beating, was he secretly terrified of the iron willed woman? Unlikely, but thatas something wrong. And it urged her away. She made her steps toward Charging bear as he retrieved the Tomahawk and told her to go and take Danny with her..

She lifted her coolie slightly and lowered her tone a bit, sounding almost demure in her admittance.." Charging Bear.. I had lost my mind for a moment at hearing him claim that the adder's murder attempt was just a little 'rough housing', but thank you for tempering me.. Just.. Watch yourself. Augustus seems to be acting a bit weird since I first met him. Or maybe I didn't notice how strange he is." She gave a slient glance to spotwood, holding Ward up a little like a fellow peer would. She didn't like it, absently sneering for a moment before her face fell blank, regarding the warrior that would really prove a good brother in combat.

" Your going to be outnumbered, but at least he insists on being civil. I'm heading to the west to try and speak to your native brethren and stash Danny somewhere.. I'm sorry I wasn't any help to you, but try to get back to town soon, the Marshal is concerned and he can catch you up since I must leave. They're rounding up townfolk to speak against the Adders before I left them." He rose a hand and tapped his chest in parting respect, wooden sandals moving over to the wounded and bound soldier boy.

<tt>" Stay close. I'm gettin ya outta 'ere." Taking an elbow from his bound hands, she guiides him more then forced Danny out the breakfast nook of this little place with what she could assume was a befuddled Gus following her outside the Ranch House.

" Gus, right? " She mentioned slowly, looking over her shoulder for a moment until the big fella caught up. " Heading west ta da property line, heard d'ere were some indians spotted along. Dun't reckon you'd mind leading the way? "

Alouette's been quiet, save to gently shoo people away from spilt Danny-blood like Abraham shoos it with the odd quiet 'not touch!'. It's seen the mess in the pantry by now - since no-one else has, it points it out.

"Famine."

It tilts its head at Dr.Ward, but will follow the 'wendigo' wherever Gangatsu pulls him, to make sure he doesn't bite her.

Ward waves Augustus off. "It's nothing...merely a passing spell. I shall be fine." He presses an handkerchief to his nose and looks at the stain left by the blood briefly, then stands straight. "Please, wait in the Foyer." he says to Charging Bear and Augustus. "I wish to attend to my friend."

---

Danny glowers as he's tied up and entrusted into Gangatsu's care. He moves slowly, his injuries from the previous night weakening his knees. "In that case, I'm doomed." He eyes the clank following along as if this is all it's fault somehow.

The pair head off while Gus follows behind. They're about a hundred yards from the house. He laughs when Gangatsu asks him to show her the way to the Indian encampment.

"Are you shittin' me? HAW! You really are dumber than a bag o' hammers, ain'tcha?" he chuckles. "Look, I don't know what kinds o' red niggers you got up near Shan Fran or Shanghai or wherever the fuck it is you're from, but the savages we got out here ain't all nice an' cuddly like the ones you're probably thinkin' of. Them redskins are pure blooded Comanche, and they're the meanest sons of bitches this side o' the Coyote Confederation. You walk up to them, don't expect to be sayin' 'how!' and smokin' no peace pipe...they'll rape ya for hours, eat yer flesh, and sew yer pretty hair into their belts after they scalp ya. And if'n yer very, very lucky, they'll do it in that order." he pulls put a plug of tobacco and begins to chew. "Though if'n you really wanna get kilt, well, I'll ride with you a ways and point you in the right direction. Hell, it'll save the boss a bullet AND I can bask in the thought that you done me a favor and took the clank and the mic to their dooms with ya. That'll save ME some bullets."

"We're doomed!" Danny moans again.

Charging Bear smiles slightly at Gangatsu, "Be careful." When she leaves he turns his gaze back to the pantry which Alouette so rightly noted. The smell was the first thing that struck him, rot... decay. It made the warrior shiver and gag.

Something is very wrong here... he muttered to himself and looked over small room for any sign of what might have caused the decay. He stopped abruptly and looked out towards where Danny Boy had just been standing; Charging Bear's eyes narrowed, and he looked down at the tomahawk he had just removed from the Yankee.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:21, Thu 30 Sept 2010.

In reply to Charging Bear (msg #103):

Not only has the food rotten, there's a point by the door's lock that is significantly weaker than the rest of the wood, as if a hand-sized section of the door had been exposed to the elements far longer than the rest of the door.

It certainly seems unnatural.

The blood on the tomahawk is a dark and sluggish maroon, not the vibrant red of health. And when he had cut Danny, the blood hadn't spattered...it had oozed. Like it had from the dead man he'd decapitated yesterday. Like the blood of the dead man who'd stood up on a broken ankle and tried to eat him the night before that. Like the blood of the skeletal thing that had said those lies about his family and nearly killed him.

There's too many damn dead Yankees walking around this place...
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:53, Thu 30 Sept 2010.

Looking at the deadman's blood, Charging Bear has a look of disgust on his face. How many did Ward say were in that "gang". the native son couldn't recall if the doctor had. As he moved out of the kitchen he paused to look at Dr Ward. "Ward, how many of those yankees were in that gang of rustlers?"

It was at least reassuring that the native son wished her well. Moving along, Guss followed, Danny was bound by a rag and... She stoped after a moment, seeing the tinker bot was following after her. Shook her head slightly and continued on, but Danny was kind of slowing her down a little.

" Shut yer hole. D'ere is no 'we' and not one o us be doom'd." She spat at Danny, the fatalistic kid irked her a little. She wondered if the machine would carry this light load of bones, though she needed to get his clothes changed. Her other shirt was a little ripped, but it might do a little.  She fished out the red shirt and baggy black pants that were neatly folded in ehr bag and tethered with a slender piece of twine. " Change into this and hurry up. Machine, stay wit'em." She murmured, untying the dishrag. She got a little distance from the boy for him to change out of that uniform.

And this is when she posed her question to Gus and hte man barked and proved he was as vile as they came. Yet it didn't seem to phase Gangatsu in the slightest. She listened and her lips twitched a bit as danny, hearing this made the same fatalistic comment. The asian actually rolled her eyes at that, not at all feeling so irrational now she had herself in check.

" Maybe. Maybe not. Either way, it'll be an interesting ride. Though I do reckon I perfer your brother's company d'hen yers.  A bit too trigger happy fer my likin." She shifted her jaw a bit, watching the redneck a bit closely. " Which minds me.. If you think i'll die out 'ere, tell me something. I know it ain't none my business, but.. Ya love yer brother? Is that why ya.. Did it? I bin thinkin about it alot, he's a simple thing, but.. Seems like a good lad."

"I believe there were six of them." Ward says. "Of those six, I know that my men encountered one two nights ago when they first escaped, which they said they dispatched - I believe you were involved in that. They recovered that one and the body of another, both of which were burned. A third corpse was taken to the sheriff's office in a decapitated state, a fourth was buried by our friend Alouette in the middle of town, a fifth was destroyed last night, and then there was Daniel there, whom you let walk away but I believe is just as dead as the rest of his comrades. In fact, I am of the opinion that he has been an ambulatory corpse since before I encountered him in town, as he recovered quite swiftly from a bullet wound that should have been fatal."

Ward shakes his head. "Something is animating dead men around town." He looks at Augustus. "And I fear it is spreading."

---

Gus goes silent and still at Gangatsu's question, then pulls his gun and cocks it.

"Bitch," he whispers, hissing like a rattler, "You do not get to talk about my brother."

Augustus had gotten distracted by his device for a few moments as the others discussed and planned.  Whatever it is, his attention became quite absorbed with adjusting it.  Only as Dr. Ward speaks to him directly, does he pull himself away, "Hmm?  Sorry?  Animating the dead?"  The scientist can't help but laugh a little, "Surely /you/, a man of science, doesn't really believe that.  Its impossible.  More than likely they are just suffering some bacterium or other which creates the symptoms described."  He pauses a moment, thought-distracted again, "Of course...with the right current of electricty and perhaps the appropriate biological influence, it is /possible/ to cause dead flesh to continue operation....  Though it would be more like a puppet on strings really...."

"Or perhaps something that science can't quite explain is doing it. I'm not sure how Alouette is walking around but she... he ... it is. Speaking of, Dr Ward do you know what Alouette meant by there being a snake spirit living in Gus Shaw?" The question might seem very off hand but, Charging Bear watches the 'good doctor' closely for signs of lying.

OOC: I'm guessing the Jackalope has gone far enough away that I can spend fate chips.
10:34, Today: Charging Bear rolled 3,3 using 1d6,1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 3,3. Notice.
10:34, Today: Charging Bear rolled 9,4 using 1d6,1d6, rerolling max with rolls of (6+3)9,4. Notice Whitechip!.

"Mr. Spotswood, it is because I am a man of science that I must accept that it is possible to raise a corpse from the dead, for I have seen it done." He takes a seat. "What I am about to tell you I have told very few people, and I only share it with you and Mr. Bear now because it is vital that you know. I was a doctor in a field hospital at the Battle of Gettysburg, and on that day the reality of the existence of aetheric entities was made plain to me, for on that day I saw a man, a good man who had done no evil or hurt before, suddenly begin to slice healthy limbs off of stable patients. He had been possessed by a malevolent specter, you see, and fought with a superhuman strength. This butcher escaped, sadly. But that was not the worst of the things I saw, for out on the battlefield the dead of Pickett's brigade rose up to continue their struggle, even though the army had retreated from the field. It was...horrific to watch." He stops talking for a moment, choked up at the memory.

"But before you dismiss what I saw as the fancy of a mind strained by too much time at war, know that this was not the last time I saw such things. One vision of horror may be passed off as the fancy of battle fatigue, but it did not end there."

"Our next engagement was the battle of the Wilderness, where I saw trees come to horrific life and pull in soldiers as the forest burned. I was there at Spotsylvania, which I shall say no more about. But the battle that absolutely convinced me of the existence of walking dead was Cold Harbor."

Ward stands, heads to a cupboard, and removes a bottle of whiskey. He pours himself a glass, then takes a drink before continuing.

"That monster Grant refused a truce to collect the wounded there. He waited, and the dead rose and attacked our fortifications. He knew, you see. He knew that if he waited, the dead would rise, and he used that as a weapon of terror against our lines, which allowed him to march on Richmond."

He pinches the bridge of his nose, then sighs again.

"It was after that horrible day that I took to my studies. As a doctor, I was having trouble accepting what I was seeing. I had to know what was causing these things. I began to study the occult, searching for answers. I found them by applying methods of the New Science to these pagan practices and rituals. The supernatural is nothing of the sort, you see. It is just that ancient witches and pagan priests did not know what it was they were dealing with, and so assigned religious meanings to them, cloaking actual scientific principles behind the guise of calling down ghosts, gods, and spirits."

"The dead may rise through the methods you describe, acting like a puppet. However, a dead thing can be used as a shell to host an aetheric entity, which then can use the host to interact with the physical world. Not all dead...there's usually a catalyst of some sort that allows the entity entry. The entity then provides motive force and enough repair to the tissue to allow movement and sometimes speech."

"You do not quite accept the existence of aetheric entities. I understand this. I do not need you to accept this premise on faith. It is testable, and repeatable, and I fully intend to share with you my notes and experiments in contacting the entities after I demonstrate their existence to you. But somewhere in the area are a group of malicious spirits that have decided to begin animating the dead for their own nefarious purposes, and I intend to find out why...and how to stop them, or at least control them so that they do no harm to people."

He turns to Charging Bear. "It is Mr. Shaw's decision if he wishes to discuss that with you. i suspect he won't, as he harbors a deep dislike of your people."
This message was last edited by the player at 14:49, Fri 01 Oct 2010.

Augustus can't help from rolling his eyes a little at Chargin Bear's offering of "something science can't explain."  Poor primitive.  Rebuttal is set aside in favor listening to Dr. Ward.  He does his best to really hear the good Doctor's explanation, with as open a mind as he is capable.  As Ward sits, he too finds a seat and settles his sonic cannon onto his lap; letting the tension out of the mainspring as he does so.  The humming fades away.

The stories of strange occurrences on the battlefield's recieve a raised eyebrow, but, out of respect, he doesn't dispute anything as yet.  As the offer is again put out to prove the existence of aetheric entities, Augustus quickly nods, "I remain ready to see your proof, sir.  As I have said.  I just still fnd the whole idea...a bit hard to swallow... I mean, entities which re-animate the dead? It goes against natural law as we know it."  As he finishes, another of his wracking coughs comes on him, interrupting any further conversation for a moment.  Handkerchief ready, he politely covers his mouth and turns away.

Charging Bear turned his gaze to Augustus and smiles. "Well Mr Spotswood... go into the pantry and explain what you see there to me. Then look at the blood on my blade and explain why it is not bright red and liquid..."

Alouette wanders along behind the little procession, cautioning Gangatsu that it would be unwise to let Danny go or touch his blood, Danny not to eat Gangatsu and Gus not to kill and scalp Danny, because that would be a sin. It listens to Gus' talk of Comanches with its usual blank, innocent interest that suggests it's going to repeat it all verbatim, probably to the first Comanche that asks.

It's about to ask Gangatsu if it'll hurt her to get shot from ten paces away when Gus looks set to shoot her from rather less. Having learnt what worked before, there's a sudden sound like an enraged hound hitting the end of its chain at Gus' elbow.

"WOOF WAF WROUF WAF WOUF WOUF grrWOUF WOOF WOUF WAF WAF RAF WOUF WOOF WAF!!!"

[[intimidate: 5]]

In reply to Charging Bear (msg #112):

Augustus lifts a brow at Charging Bear's challenge, after putting his handkerchief away again.  Somewhat exasperated, he stands and heads over to the pantry to have a look.  What he sees is quite surprising and he does take a minute or two to process it all.  But, he turns back around and offers a shrug of his shoulders, "The door does seem to have developed a curious dry rot which made it quite easy for the miscreant to push through.  As for the food spoilage, I think Abraham really does need to take more care in maintaining the pantry.  After a certain time, all food does go bad.  Its just the nature of things."  Turning back to the Indian, the scientist offers a triumphant smile, "A bit surprising, given Abraham's noted efficiency, but hardly supernatural.  You really need to try and consider more reasonable answers before leaping to such notions."

Lecturing finished, he looks again to the Doctor, "What say we take control of something a bit more tangible for now?  You wished to detain a certain Mr. Frost I believe?"
This message was last edited by the player at 14:24, Sat 02 Oct 2010.

She heeds the bot's advise about not letting Danny go, but she wondered if it understood that the fellow would be shot over his colors alone, even now as they were covered with blood, dirt, and grime. If Danny ran or tried anything, Gus would shoot the fellow dead or he'd die out on his own under these conditions. Either way, Danny was seeming less and less like someone whom might really tell her everything that happen with his comrades, but she wasn't going to hold her breath anymore.

The simple response, she wasn't expecting anything more then a reaction that would come. It was walking a razor edge, but Gangatsu was not in the mind censor her thoughts.

" I am." She admitted, it will not be the last she heard of such vulgarities toward her. The woman watched him for a moment and about to say something, when the woman was taken back as Alouette barks like a mad dog, she veeres slghtly away from the end of the barrel and rests her hand on the pummel of her sword.  Well, that was going to be something to get use to..

Gus jerks in surprise at the sudden barking, then his face contorts into a snarl of rage.

"Oh, that's the last fuckin' straw!" He howls, and then begins to slam the butt of his gun down repeatedly on the construct's beak-like head.

"I! HAVE HAD! ENOUGH! OF YOU!" he bellows as the heavy pommel dents brass and cracks lenses.

[[OOC: Welcome to combat rounds! Remember, no one can spend any chips while the Jackalope, which hasn't been noticed yet, is in the area.

Gus Shaw rolled 4,9 using d8,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 4,(6+3)9. resisting intimidate.

Gus Shaw rolled 5,1 using d8,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 5,1. That's a hit against Alouette's Parry, so time for damage.

Gus Shaw rolled 5,9 using d6,d4, rerolling max with rolls of 5,(4+4+1)9. Damage. Ouch. That's 14 total damage, so Alouette is Shaken and takes 1 wound.

I draw for the first round of combat...it looks like Gangatsu is up first with a Black Joker.]]

---

First round of initiative:
Gangatsu: Black Joker! (may go any time, +2 to actions, +2 to damage)
Gus Shaw: Queen of Spades
Alouette: Jack of Hearts
Danny Boy: 3 of Diamonds
Jackalope: 2 of clubs
This message was last edited by the player at 15:45, Sat 02 Oct 2010.

In reply to Augustus Spotswood (msg #114):

Charging Bear chuckles at Augustus's reasoning. "So you truly believe that by happen stance all that food went bad at once? Even though I'm sure much of it was fresh just yesterday... I would wager some of it was fresh less than an hour ago when we were eating breakfast." He looks back towards the pantry and shakes his head,  "You didn't explain the door rot, as there isn't a source of water or moisture to cause that specific area to rot, and the rest of the door has no signs of rot. So spare me your hack science if you're not going to be thorough about your explanations."

Turning back to Dr Ward the native son says, "Now Dr Ward shall we see about Mr Frost?"
This message was last edited by the player at 17:42, Sat 02 Oct 2010.

In reply to Charging Bear (msg #117):

The scientist blinks in surprise at the native's outburst.  His eyes widen a bit at the tirade and its accompanying egotistical laughter.  Attacking his very core of reason.  Augustus actually looks quite mad, angry even, for the first time, perhaps having been finally pushed too far. "You foolish, superstitious throwback.  How dare you impune an honest Man of Science.  I have tried to be quite civil with you.  I really have, but this is simply going too far, sir." 

He pauses suddenly, his voice dropping a bit and his eyes flicking away, "Be quiet, I can handle this...no, stop it... I don't need your help."  Argument with...no one...complete, he turns back to Charging Bear.

"Wherever there is food or a kitchen there /is/ moisture, sir.  As for why that particular area was weakened quicker, it is the part of the door receiving the most use.  As for the food, /I/ was not so bold as to make a careful study of our host's pantry and the relative freshness of its contents.  I highly doubt you did either and you can, therefore, /not/ say with any shred of veracity when the food went bad or not."  He adjusts his collar, which feels suddenly too tight, and stands straighter, "If you choose to believe in hocum and superstition that is your prerogative, but note that /you/ can prove /nothing/.  Until you can do so, I have nothing more to say to you."

"Gentlemen!" Ward moves between the two arguing men. "Stop this pointless bickering at once! We still have much to do today, and this does not help our cause!"

"Mr. Spotswood, for your information my pantry was well stocked, and I trust Abraham not to keep such fouled victuals around. He has been an excellent manager in that regard, and you insult his industriousness and attention to his work with your suggestion. The dry rot on the door I cannot explain yet, but the food spoilage, at least, was not caused by a lack of care on his part. No, that did not happen until after the ruffian was contained within."

Ward turns thoughtful. "In fact, now that I come to think of it, the same manner of rot on the door was found in the very shed where the rustlers were being held in the first place. This rot allowed them to break the door and overpower their guard. And while one such incident may be marked off as chance, consider there have now been two such occurrences, both involving the same individual. That suggests a connection of some sort."

"Mr. Spotswood, when you reject 'hokum and superstition' out of hand, you place yourself in the unenviable position of being just as close-minded as those who cling to such beliefs and never challenge them. Science is about exploration, not out-of-hand denial."

"However, Mr. Bear, I must say I find your conduct most unbecoming in this matter." Ward then says, turning towards Charging Bear. "I can understand your disdain of his explanation, but to insult him is simply going too far, and is just as dismissive as his own words towards you. Please reign in your temper, sir."

"We have a common mystery, but we have no time to pursue it. With every minute we delay, we give Nathanial more time to entrench himself. Shall we put this aside until we have dealt with the matter at hand?"

Without wating for answers, Ward heads towards the door.

[[OOC: Meanwhile, I as a GM am enjoying watching the RP between your two characters.]]

The construct looks up at Gus and keeps talking even as the enraged brigand tries to turn it into a brass pancake. "An unkin-" *tonk* "-who threatens mortal-" *tankcrik* "-life is a-" *clang* "-demon, Gus Shaw." *SMAK* "Primary command:" *clonk* "-protect."

This might almost be a warning, if the clank were more aggressive than a damp tissue.


[[OOC: unshaken, but no raise to do aught with.
initiative: 10 clubs]]

Charging Bear nod to Dr Ward, "You're quite right..." He looks to Augustus, "I'm sorry for my words earlier but please understand that I've seen things that men of science have tried to explain without truly explaining."

With that he turns back to Ward, "Dr Ward do you have a pistol I could use? While I don't usually carry fire arms as my bow works far more reliably, I find myself without my preferred weapon."

Augustus seems quite ready to continue his "debate" for a moment, but slowly his anger deflates.  Adjusting his shirt again, he clears his throat, "Of course, Dr. Ward.  I do apologize.  I simply was carried away in the moment.  Stress perhaps..."  Turning to Charging Bear, the scientist looks a bit sheepish, but nods his acceptance of the Indian's apology, "I beg your forgiveness in return, sir.  My conduct was uncalled for.  Perhaps I was rash in my deductions."  As Charging Bear mentions requiring a firearm, Augustus seems to light up a bit with an idea, "Mr. Bear, please in defense of Science and to help you see its benefits, I wonder if you would do me the honor of wielding this..." The scientist offers out his sonic cannon, "It is a Sonic Neurological Disruptor.  Non-lethal in every regard, yet totally effective at neutralizing the enemy."


OOC - Just as a note for CB, it does use Shooting as its operating skill.

Charging Bear looks to Augustus and nods, "Of course... I'm guessing the trumpet end is pointed towards the foe?" he says with a smile as he accepts the non-weapon weapon. Then taking a moment, Charging Bear cleans his tomahawks and puts them back into their homes.

As Charging Bear cleans off his tomahawks, Augustus gives him a quick rundown on his invention.  How to wind the mainspring appropriately.  The proper tone it should make when ready.  Hints on aiming the strange weapon.  Relatively simple and sturdy in its design really.  As opposed to many inventions of the New Science.  Satisfied that his weapon is in good hands, the scientist looks over to Dr. Ward, "This will allow me to make use of my other inventions to aid your endeavor.  How much time before we are to attempt this citizen's arrest?"

"Fuck you and your bullshit, clank!" Gus bellows. "Just shut up! Shut up! Shut up! Shut up!"

As he screams, He takes his pistol and fans the hammer down, punctuating each scream with a bullet.

The slugs slam into the machine, buffeting it around and ripping through internal mechanisms. The clank collapses, ghost rock steam leaking from holes in a high-pitched wail

[[OOC: Gus Shaw rolled 10,17,0,-3 using d8-4,d8-4,d8-4,d6-4, rerolling max with rolls of (8+6)14,(8+8+5)21,4. Fanning the hammer. Fuck. That's two raises and a miss. Ouch.

Fist bullet: Gus Shaw rolled 17 using 3d6+1, rerolling max with rolls of 1,4,(6+5)11. Damage. That's a Shaken and 2 wounds since Alouette got unshaken.

Second Bullet: Gus Shaw rolled 8 using 3d6+1, rerolling max with rolls of 1,3,3. Damage. Since Alouette is still Shaken, that's an additional 1 wound, which means Alouette is now incapacitated and needs to make a Vigor roll not to go all explody.

Next initiative: Gus 3H]]

---

Danny, in the middle of dressing himself, stares goggle-eyed at gus's sudden loss of temper. He turns tail and runs away, moving as fast as he can with his limp and his new pants halfway on.

[[OOC: Danny Boy rolled 6 using 1d6 with rolls of 6. Running! His pace is reduced to 3 because of the wounds against him.

Next round: Danny 8D]]

---

The jackalope watched the carnage. The metal thing fell. That was no good. It couldn't eat metal. however, the runny one, he was wounded. It wouldn't take much to finish him off.

The bunny with antlers burst from its hiding place, charging at the fleeing Danny Boy. It leaped into the air and attempted to gore the boy, but just as it leaped Danny's pants fell all the way down and he stumbled. He noticed a blur of brown whizzing past his head, then turned and looked to find himself staring into the eyes of a fuzzy brown rabbit with horns.

The rabbit let out an ear-piercing shriek of frustration.

[[OOC: the Stray rolled 1 using 1d6 with rolls of 1. Jackalope attack! Miss.

Next turn: Jackalope 10D]]

Dr. Ward leads Charging Bear and Augustus outside. He has his own derringer at the ready. The trio stride across the ground towards a bunkhouse. he pauses at the door. "How do you want to approach this, gentlemen?"

"As simple as possible. Have you gone in and asked Frost out in the past? ..." The plan is simple, bring Frost out and away from the bunkhouse, then render him unconscious as quickly as possible. From there the trio takes him into town.

OOC: Figured I'd give out the plan regardless of Ward's response.

Folk around may suffer from riquochets, shrapnel, noxious fumes and possibly the disfavour of God, but fortunately no explosions.

[[unless Nerves of Steel doesn't count for anything when incapacitated (I can see why it wouldn't, though I can also see why it would), in which case, not to put too fine a point on it, everyone's screwed.
Can anyone in/around the house hear this screaming and shooting, by the way?]]

Yet, anyway.

Gatsu couldn't help the machine as it got pummeled, she could still feel something following her around. Yet this started to freak Danny out and hte boy was trying to run, comically so in a waddling with her pants half way around ht knee.  And then, that's when she spotted a blur of brown and dust kicking up from the shadow of some sage thorns, she started to squint at the look of it when she heard a gunshot rapid and close.

Instinctually it mean her lash out! The flash of silver razor from slight curve of hte katana whipping out of the sheathe and catching the wrist that held that damn gun with those ghost rock bullets. She couldn't stand that wretched sound. Gritting her teeth, she should have done this sooner, and she had to admit it was a bit selfish of her not to care. Yet how could she, really? It wasn't a person, but itf it blew, it could blast them all to cinders.. And to say the least, to a woman not caring whether she lives or dies, there was only the drive, a primal determination to take her revenge. She would not die now because of a Redneck and a walking squwak box.

" Stop! What da hell's wrong wid you gettin bent out o yer mind o'er nuthin? You might as well be beatin a child.. You want sumptin to beat on, aim it to what's tailin us..." She could feel the pressure of her blood starting to spike up a bit, she looked after danny whom fell over and something swooped over his head. What..

"Wat da hell?" Was that a rabbit? " What's wrong with it.." Righting her sword to flip it over toward the blade and she started to move forward after Danny.


Rolled 23 to hit; called shot, non lethal
Rolled 15 for damage
Moves 5 paces toward Danny.
[Stray said nah, though I don't know how anyone can't hear that damn Ghost Rock.. They're a hundred o yards or so away in a big sturdy [sound proof] ol house.]

[[OOC: The Stray, on behalf of Gangatsu, drew the single card: AH using the Deadlands system. Initiative.]]
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:58, Wed 06 Oct 2010.

In reply to Charging Bear (msg #127):

Augustus begs a moment to retrieve a few things from his bags.  He jogs to catch up to the other two men outside, just in time to hear the "plan."  In his hand is a very strange trumpet.  From his shoulder hangs a case, from which run wires up to a brass contraption strapped over his right ear.  He gives a quick nod to the general idea, "Simple is sometimes best with these things.  Thanks to my inventions we should be able to manage it with no bloodshed whatsoever."  He pauses a moment, cocking his head to the side and dropping his voice, "No...not like the other time...  I said /no/ blood...  Oh be quiet."

Initiative for next round:

Gagatsu: Ace of hearts
Jackalope: 10 of Diamonds
Alouette: Incapacitated
Danny: 8 of Diamonds
Gus: 3 of Hearts.

It is currently Gangatsu's turn.

"I'm not confident that will work. Frost and I quarreled last night, and he is well aware of my intentions. I should have matched him back to the Marshal's care right then, but another distraction developed, which I'm sure you remember. Still..."

He backs up, and motions for Charging Bear and Augustus to take their positions.

"NATHANIAL FROST!" He shouts at the bunk house. "I AM CALLING YOU OUT TO FACE JUSTICE! COME OUT WITH YOUR HANDS UP, OR BE A COWARD AND FORCE US TO HUNT YOU DOWN!"

Charging Bear looks at Dr Ward as if the man had lost his mind as the entire bunk house would be upon them in moments. The native son aims Spotswood's Sonic Neurological Disruptor (trademark with patent pending of course) at the doorway to the bunk house.

OOC: Is this an area or single target weapon Augustus?

Ward catches Charging Bear's expression. "Trust me, sir. I know Frost. His arrogance will not allow him to ignore a direct challenge."

[[OOC: The Restrain power can do both, depending on the amount of Power Points spent to activate it, unless the trapping somehow prevents it (which I can't really see, as the trappings are directed sound waves)]]

Augustus' eyes go a little wide as the Doctor literally calles Mr. Frost out.  Looking around quickly, he sprints over to the nearest bit of cover he can find and crouches behind it.  He'd also have a look around for any nearby animals.  Like the men's horses perhaps.

OOC - Yep, just like the Bossman said.  It is basically the Entangle power from the rulebook vs. Smarts or Agility.  20 Power Points

Augustus takes cover while Charging Bear readies the strange scattergun. As it happens, there is a corral containing horses not far away.

---

Inside the bunkhouse, Carl is awakened by Dr. Ward calling out Nathanial Frost. There's a flurry of movement from the other Dust Adders as they blink awake, grab weapons, and look around in confusion.

It looks like there might be a fight. Just one problem. Nathanial isn't in the bunkhouse. He didn't return there last night.

[[OOC: You're up, Carl.]]

Carl threw on some pants whilst the others acted out an upset chickenhouse. He set his hat on his head, let his shotgun find his hand like a faithful dog and made one sure, slow sweep to check Nate wasn't anywhere about. He nodded to a half-awake Percy to leave the cook-door open 'round back, in case.

This done, Carl steps up to the door and opens it careful-like, leaving his shotgun leant up by the doorpost. He steps into the sunlight with hands raised, at least until his eyes adjust - if Ward's out there who knows but Gus might be with him, and Gus always did shoot several times before he'd allow maybe he shoulda asked questions.

...nope, just the Injun. First target if it comes to a fight. Carl leans against the doorpost, surrupticiously watching the Cherokee and one-side shrugs to Ward like 'he's not here'.

Ward frowns. "Not here? what do you mean he's not here?"

He points to Charging Bear, then indicates the man should check around back.

Charging Bear nods to the doctor and moves around the bunkhouse, about as quietly as his name sake.

OOC:
13:54, Today: Charging Bear rolled 1,2 using 1d4,1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 1,2. Stealth.

Carl looks back into the bunkhouse, whistles for attention, gives a slight headjerk at outside and makes a show of looking from man to man in case anyone wants to squeal anything they know. If there's silence, he'll turn back to Ward and give a more emphatically empty-handed shrug along the lines of 'nothing doing/they ain't seen him either'.

Augustus peeks his head out from behind the outhouse which has provided him with cover.  A brow is lifted at the seeming quiet standoff rather than the expected gunfight.  Perhaps there won't be a fight after all.  A relief really.  Coughing quietly into a handkerchief, he once again checks his device.  It would be a shame for the valves to stick if it does come to it....

Charging Bear creeps around noisily, and finds that the rear is just as quiet as the front. There is a cook door open in the back, but if anyone had run out it in the last few minutes, he'd still be able to see them.

Ward looks into the bunkhouse. "Well then. If no one is willing to step forth and speak up for conscience, then here is a different incentive. I want Nathanial Frost found and delivered alive to the marshal in Blackthorn. I guarantee a $200 bounty for his arrest and capture, or for information about his whereabouts. For those of you who were involved in last night's outrage, I will shield you from prosecution as best as I am able. No one has to pay for Nathanial's mistakes but him. However, if I discover that any of you are aiding and abetting him, and believe me when I say I will discover it, that person will have no more place here, and will need to seek employment elsewhere. Am I understood, gentlemen?"

A chorus of silence greets his words.

Ward steps out of the bunkhouse and goes over to Charging Bear. "Well, it seems we will find no help here. I have one more method that I can use to locate him, should the promise of a bounty not prove a sufficient motivator. Let us return to the house, and discuss what must be done from there."

He returns to the front of the bunkhouse and motions to Carl. "Mr. Allans, I know you were not involved in the fracas last night, and you have been a steadfast and worthy fellow. Would you kindly accompany us as we continue our search for Frost? Or do you choose to stay here, with the others? Where do you stand, Mr. Allans?"

Charging Bear takes a moment to look over Ward's ranch, trying to see the lay of the place and the number of buildings.

"He's probably still on property. I'd guess probably that barn as it is the easiest place to sneak in and out of and still provides a fairly warm place to sleep."

OOC: Trying to sort out the layout of the place
09:47, Today: Charging Bear rolled 5,5 using 1d6,1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 5,5. Smarts.

Carl raises one eyebrow a little and gives Dr.Ward a long look, then jerks his head slightly at the interior of the bunkhouse.

"..."

He meets Ward's eye again and makes a movement as though for the grip of an imaginary gun. "?" He drops the gesture slowly and carefully tugs his hatbrim in respect, keeping eye contact but not moving from his post.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:57, Fri 08 Oct 2010.

In reply to Carl (msg #144):

Ward looks at Carl, then nods, apparently understand the gestures clearly. "You're right, of course. I apologize. Grab those men whom you think will come. Tell me which they decide...come with us, or search on their own. I'll give you a few minutes to discuss things with them. And if, in the end, you feel you must ride out on your own, then I'll understand." He rests a hand on Carl's shoulder. "Just remember...if Frost won't be taken alive, then at least retrieve the body, so that the Law is awae that justice has been done."

Yea, it is a rabbit. Well, she wasn't going to make the mistake of hesitation this time.  The metal thing would have been in better condition and she wouldn't have to take it all the way back to the ranch. In troubling thoughts as well, she put the thought of that thing being a bit like a child weighing on her mind, but that thought was pushed aside at the brown thing that shrieked near Danny. With her blade at the ready, she rushed forward with the firm sand pressing to the sole of the wooden sandal. A hard thrust, guagin a measure that it would try and flee, her hand steady to kill the quick little stalker.

Rolled 5 for a hit. Yay!
Rolled 6 for damage. + 2 for katana making a total of 8 damage. Yay?

Gangatsu draws Ace of Clubs for next round. Wow.

Gangatsu's sword goes *snicker-snack*, and the jackalope's head goes bouncing into the underbrush.

---

Danny collapses. "Hungry..." he moans...and grabs the still-warm corpse of the killer rabbit to start gnawing on it. Blood dribbles down his new, clean shirt as he tears strips of rabbit meat, fur and all, off the carcass, swallowing them raw.

[[OOC: Danny takes this opportunity to get at some fresh meat.

Danny Boy drew the single card: JH for next round]]

---

Gus curses us a streak at the pain, and fumbles around in the dirt for his gun.

"Well, damn." he says, not really sure just what the hell happened. He glares over at Gangatsu and Danny. "The fuck is he doin'?" He mutters, still trying to make sense of everything.

[[OOC: Gus Shaw rolled 12,2 using d8-1,d6-1, rerolling max. recover from shaken attempt. That's a raise, so he's able to act this turn. He spends the turn picking up his pistol.

Gus Shaw drew the single card: 5C for next round]]

Carl grips his hatbrim a bit more firmly, almost a salute, and makes to head in. He gives Ward a wry half-smile, pausing, at the clap on the shoulder and accompanying remark. "..."

Gangatsu moved back a step, she killed the bunny and a slight smirk pulled her lips. At least she'd have a good early lunch since it's still a fresh kill, yet it seemed the union boy had the same idea. He fell and started to claw at the skin, pulling it open and eating it, making a bloody mess that made a familar queasy feeling in her gut. She stepped back, moving all cautious like  without taking her eye off from the...

Hungry boy that was eating flesh and even the nice pelt, stuffing it into his mouth in a fashion that would make anyone else loose their breakfast. Gus barked up about what he's doing and she tilted her head a little in hearing it.

" You know wut'cha gotta do, darlin'. Just like all da others, he's gunna turn. Still goin to push for answers? Your pushin a bit too hard ta find da grand finale."

The raspy voice like smoke in her mind, she could easy vision Danny going bat shit insane and try to eat a bigger meal. She turned, moving a bit toward Gus.

" I need ya to calm down, Gus, he ain't a problem right now. I don't wanna fight ya, I just wanted to talk.  You wanna ease yer gun back in da hole or wut." Watching him, she was waiting a second on her turn and she couldn't believe the luck danny Boy had that she wasn't going to kill him yet. None of the stories she was hearing had matched so far and now her head was a bit more clear, she was reduce to waiting again.

Wait
Pulled card: Queen of Clubs

Danny continues to chow down on the rabbit, oblivious to his surroundings.

Gus does not holster his gun...he cocks and fires.

*BANG!*

The boy, in the middle of raising his grim feast to his lips, pitches back as the bullet slams into him. He collapses, empty eyes staring blankly at the sky.

"Fucking finally." Gus growls.

[[OOC: Gus decideds to shoot Danny Boy.

Gus Shaw rolled 2,1 using d8-1,d6-1, rerolling max with rolls of 3,2. Shooting! He spends a Red Chip

Gus Shaw rolled 5 using 1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 5. red chip.

That brings his total to 7, which is a hit but not a raise.

Gus Shaw rolled 13 using 2d6+1, rerolling max with rolls of (6+5)11,1. Damage. That's a Shaken and 2 wounds to Danny Boy, who is already at 3 wounds.

Danny Boy rolled -2,1 using d6-3,d6-3, rerolling max with rolls of 1,4. soak roll. Fail. Danny's incapacitated.

[Private to GM: Danny Boy rolled 5,2 using d6,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 5,2. Incapacitation roll. He succeeds, thanks to his Hard To Kill edge. he takes an Injury to the arm and will be unconscious for an hour.]

Gus Shaw drew the single card: 5H]]
This message was last edited by the player at 00:18, Sun 10 Oct 2010.

Carl moseys back into the subdued bunkhouse, picking up his shotgun on the way. The first his eye lit on was Dave, but the man was nursing sore pride and a few teeth he'd never see again, so he lets him be and catches Mike's eye, beckons once. Mike throws him a querying look, but that raggedy-ass sonovabitch would ride with him to the jaws of Hell. One.

Carl half-notices as Mike nudges Jesse, who returns a kick at Mike's shins for nudging him whilst he's trying to shave. Jesse'd not only ride to the jaws of Hell, but through them whooping blood for Dixie if not forcibly restrained; guess that makes two. Carl waits for them to come over, sweeping the room with narrowed eyes.

Jack gives him a worried look, slinking out back. Carl shrugs and gives half a smile and a hat-tug to Al and Heavy Henry as they follow him out, doubtless to make triple-sure Nate's not hiding at the bottom of any bottles at the Red Eye and to remind anyone who thinks they mighta recognised Jack they really don't. A pointed finger stops Percy in his tracks before he can slope off after them and a pointed stare suggests Percy's mother might quickly find out if the lad preferred the bar and 'bad company' to this outing. Time to learn something of honour amongst thieves. Three.

Big Tom waves him away, but Little Tom's weasel eyes meet his with interest and a small nod at Percy with a smirk ('you can always win his share off him later') brings him over. Four. Carl considers if there's anyone else, gives Frank a questioning glance. Frank hesitates - scared of Frost's hoodoo, doubtless, but it seems Carl's favour with Ward and the presence of others convinces him and he drags his hat with his lucky feather and his lucky shot-up ace off his bunk and joins them. Five.

Volunteers collected, Carl jerks his head back at where Ward was standing and waves one hand over the other as though divining by pendulum, shotgun under his arm. He meets the others' gazes and gives an open-handed shrug.

[Private to GM: Carl-translation: 'Want to ride at Ward's side and maybe curry favour, or do we go to the bolthole/s we know he's probably made for, knowing the land as we do?']

Charging Bear makes his way to the bard, thinking that's probably where Frost is if the man has not left the ranch.

[[OOC: Done in chat with Gangatsu and myself.]]

Some Mood Music

Damn it. Was what she thought would be the last thing she would ever think. The gun screamed off and she bowed her head. Holding for a moment, only to feel....

Nothing?

She was still standing...Though, glancing over to Danny Boy...Looks like his luck ran out.

"Damn." She murmured and moved over to check out the body. Well, there went a pair of her clothes and a possible clue.  Gatsu moved over to the body of the torn up rabbit and looked at its long, slender hind foot.

Ducking down, she took the two rear feet and chopped them off with her katana.  She squeezed them, leaking out the excess blood from it and figured a bit o silence was needed. Damn. She can really rub people the wrong way. It was a thought that made her chuckle.

"You think something's funny, girl?" Gus says, holding his gun in a most unfriendly manner. "I ain't forgot you whacking at my hand, you know."

"You don't think this is funny?" she gave a curious pitch to her normally monotone  vocals. "Got stuck with a  walkin dead man and a chatter box clank, both you wiped out without a fuss and if I didn't stop ya beatin on dat machine, we'd all be scatter'd round da land fer miles.  I hit your hand, least I didn't hit your neck and leave ya out 'ere. Coulda gone a lot worse..."

"Well, if the damn clank had let me shoot that sonovabitch when I had the notion, I wouldn't have had to beat it into scrap." Gus says, spitting out some chaw. "Damn thing thought the deader there were some kind of fucking pet. Well, now neither of them are problems no more. And good riddance."

"Eh, can't say I disagree." She walks up the way toward Gus. After milking out the blood from the rabbit, She stored it away, taking the moment to pull out the bullet she kept from Frost's gun. "Was keeping him alive to find out a bit more about the ghost rock.."

"You don't say." Gus replies, keeping his face neutral.

"Yeah. He told me a story, got ghost rock off him. Then that machine ate my last piece, sold the rest..." She holds up one of the bullets as if studying it with a little interest.

"Yeah. Whatever. Ain't you going to go marching off into Injun Country?"

"Mm, avoiding it?" She inquired, "Or you want me ta ask all nicely? Tried doing that once already, but you get a lil fiesty.."

"You got a funny way of 'askin' nicely,' girl." Gus growls, rubbing his hand. He hasn't holstered his un, though he isn't currently pointing it at Gangatsu's face. "And there are things you don't get to ask about. Look. I don't know what crap the greasy mic spewed wherever it was you ran into him to get you to feel sorry for him, but whatever it was, it was a sack of horseshit. No more, no less."

"I ain't got any sympathy fer noone. My husband was eaten by the dead, yeah...Tends to take the 'nice' in people away." She lifted her sword and made a little slash gesture to fling off the blood from the rabbit, then sheathed it with a scrape of metal. "Yer Lyin ta me, Gus.  Now, someone told me your da man to ask." She let out her free hand. "Let me see yer hand."

"You believe what you want. I ain't here to play twenty questions." Gus said, glaring rattlesnakes at her. "And whatcha want my hand for?"

She shook her head a little, but seemed impassive at this big angry man.  Her hand was out and she waited. "To feed on, what do you think? Your bellyachin' is gettin on my nerves. Let me see it."

"Fine." He says, with little good grace. He lets he look over the hand, bandaging it with whatever she can scrounge together.

She tore a little bit of fabric that wouldn't be missed off the side of her pants and  then resumed checking his hand. It wasn't anything she hadn't seen before. She had to pop his thumb back in place and make sure nothing was broke before wrapping his hand firmly in the material.

[[OOC: She uses her Extra Effort card to gain a bonus to her untrained Healing check, for a total of 5]]

She sighed a bit and then wiped off her hands a little. "So what's it take, then? You loyal to Ward or his money?"

Gus doesn't react much when his thumb is popped back into place, only lightly grimacing at a pain that would have lesser people bawling their eyes out.

"Both." He grunts. "The money's good, and Ward's overlooked my brother's...oddities."

"Eh. Not much of an achievement. He's a good fellow, a little lonely seeming." She testingly reached out and poked his chest before stepping away, looking down to his boots and jeans for a moment. "So? What stops you from just takin over da ranch with the Adders and throw Ward out o da mix?"

A warning rattle came from Gus as she reached towards his chest. "Careful there. Might get it bit off." He hisses. "You ain't been where Tex and I have been. You get all angsty 'cause yer dude got et by some monsters. Try being brothers with one o' them monsters, with everyone tryin' to kill him as a freak or use him as a weapon, and you'll learn what a rare, rare gift it is when someone treats him like a human."

"I ain't tryin ta compare, but on a scale of that, I understand he's still hurting all da time. No one treats me like a human, much less a dame. I'm just something they don't want around. It took a lot more then just my man to die to make me this way, years of hatred. But... To each d'ere own, as some dead man once said." Her head tilted a bit, and she lifted her coolie a little.

"This place is becoming more and more like hell, and all I want to do is just...Make it all stop.  I need your help or I'm just going to have to do it that long way around. Either way...I'll get there."
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:49, Sun 10 Oct 2010.

"Look, you got it all wrong. Ward ain't the problem. Without him, Blackthorn would be a ghost town. You wanna know why Nate and I don't take over this outfit? It's cause we ain't got the vision. Sure, Nate thinks he could run this outfit, but he's too big for his britches. Ward has got plans. he's got a will, and he's got a way. He's the one who come up with the treatments that make them beeves immune to Texas Fever, which has killed most of the other herds about. You all were screaming about him being some sort o' witch, but he ain't. He's a scientist." Gus pauses to spit again. "Look, if'n you wanna help, don't go after Ward. Them Yankee boys were nothin' but rustlers and thieves, tryin' to steal the doc's stash of the Rock that make his treatments possible. Whatever's bringin' 'em back wants to tear down all that Doc's built up. I blame them Comanches. They got a witchdoctor...I bet this is all his fault, to tell the truth."

In reply to Carl, Charging Bear, Augustus Spotswood:

The five volunteers gather around Carl and discuss the situation. They decide to go with Ward in the end, and gather their horses. Some of them give funny looks to Augustus, hiding behind the outhouse.

It takes a few minutes for them all to gather together. Ward takes his own horse, and offers one to Augustus. Once everyone's settled, he gives the order to ride out.

---

Charging Bear reaches the barn, and feels a coldness in the air. A lingering smell of coal smoke wafts off the timbers.

The first thing he notices is that there is no livestock here. None. No horses, cows, pigs, or any other living thing moves about in the darkness.

The second thing he notices is the coal stove, now dark, next to a giant slab of marble that sits in the middle of the floor. On the slab, etched into the stone, is a giant, elaborate circle inlaid with turquoise and lapis lazuli:


Along the walls, in the stalls where livestock would be, are benches of liquids, workshop tools, and all manner of stranage devices and machines that the native son can't even begin to guess the functions of.

It looks like he's found Ward's workshop.

Upon seeing the situation change around, Augustus stands and steps out from behind the outhouse.  Trying his very best to look as though it was the most normal thing in the world to have been hiding behind the outhouse.  Striding up, he accepts the offered horse and, after a few tries, hauls himself into the saddle.  Definately no horseman.  Once mounted, he will follow the Doctor and his men.

Carl does stand in his stirrups a moment to look for the vanished Injun, but is first to ride after Ward when the man touches heels to his big black.

Carl reins his sorrel back a little, letting Ward and his peculiar new friend take the lead. The boys spread out without telling, mean and hungry as wolves (no food to be scrounged at the house, what was that all about?), Percy riding a bit further out than necessary, but no matter.

Silently, Carl thinks through his plans for the day in the saddle. Should drop in on...thingy, Charlie's woman, later if there was time. Check her'n the kid were all right. Carl rides on, shotgun nestled against him and ready, trying to remember the woman's name.

In reply to The Dust Adders (msg #155):

Charging Bear shivered, as a tingle ran up his spin. "Oh... Dr Ward what are you up to here..." Setting Augustus's Sonic Neurological Disruptor down, he moves into the space and begins to look over the place methodically. He's got the time and will be using it. Starting at the stove, Charging Bear goes over the barn like a detective looking for clues, as that's what he is really at this point.

Southwestern tribes use turquoise heavily... do they have a snake creature of note..

OOC:
11:31, Today: Charging Bear rolled 3,2 using 1d6,1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 3,2. Notice.
11:31, Today: Charging Bear rolled 3,21 using 1d6,1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 3,(6+6+6+3)21. Notice (Red Chip Re-roll).
11:52, Today: Charging Bear rolled -1,7 using 1d4-2,1d6-2, rerolling max with rolls of 1,(6+3)9. Knowledge Occult (untrained).

The land darkens as clouds pass over the sun. A chill and bitter wind tinged with the dewy smell of far away rain blows through the plains, carrying the rumble of thunder with it. A storm is coming.

---

In the Barn:

Charging Bear searches through the beakers, chemicals, and odd devices in the barn. Most of the chemicals are carefully labeled. charging Bear recognizes morphine, chloroform, quinine, and other medicines, but other chemicals he can't readily identify, and can't guess a purpose for. What the heck does one use "lunar caustic" for?

The coal stove is connected to a boiler to produce steam, which seems to be piped to some of the other devices in the barn. The coal burned in the stove seems to contain a lot of Ghost Rock, if the residue CB finds is any indication.

There's also a large brass firebowl that has recently been used, set on the side of the giant circle. It's difficult to tell just what was was burned here by the ashes, but they aren't more than 8-12 hours old.

The Pueblo, Navajo, Apache, and Anasazi used Turquoise extensively, but the one that has tribe that comes to mind are the bloodthirsty Aztecs, who also had many important serpents in their pantheon of deities. Quetzalcoatl, Xiuhcoatl, Mixcoatl, Tezcatlcoatl...each of these serpents played important roles in Aztec myth, as a symbol of transmutation and renewal connected to the elements of earth and water.

---

On the Range:

Carl, Augustus, and Ward, along with the other Dust Adders, ride out on the range. Ward's land is large, and some of the Dust adders take to shooting at random rabbits and pheasants that pass by, trying to catch some food for later.

The weather worsens as the group rides and the wind kicks up. It slithers under shirts and coaxes the hairs on the skin to rise.

After a couple hours of riding, the group nears a small, dry gully where a smoldering fire sends up a small column of greasy smoke.

Ward calls for a halt. "It seems we have closed in on our quarry. Time to decide how we approach his capture."

With a sigh, Charging Bear realizes Ward knew more than he was willing to say... but that was to be expected. Blood... it will end in blood. Noting no true sign of Frost, Charing Bear shifts his thinking and begins trying to track down the man whom he'd wounded just two days earlier.

OOC:
13:31, Today: Charging Bear rolled 1,1 using 1d6,1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 1,1. Tracking.
13:31, Today: Charging Bear rolled 11 using 1d6, rerolling max with rolls of (6+5)11. Tracking +1d6 Blue Chip.
Total of 12

Carl meets eyes and gives slight gestures, checking for trust and ordering the sides of the gully occupied by gunmen since chance has thrown him some measure of command - no harm in it, Ward can always call them back if he thinks of a better plan. Meanwhile...well, Nate never was as bright as he thought himself, but a camp out in the open when a man's one chance to get clean away would be to bushwhack and cut down the head of any posse following, that merited a little caution.

Jesse Carl keeps by him and waits, ready to take orders and back Ward and the skinny greenhorn up or to take action if given free rein, silent, patient. He pats his restive horse to settle her, taking a glance at the sky.

Augustus seems quite happy for the pause in the ride and tries to adjust himself a bit in the saddle.  He's not had the easiest ride, but at least he kept up.  After turning so his back was to the wind as much as possible, he gives his gadgets a quick check over. He lifts a brow at Ward's comments on planning.  With a proud smile, the scientist begins adjusting dials and buttons on his latest invention, the Zoological Evocator, "Perhaps a bit of reconnaisance would help..."

OOC - A 10 on Weird Science to tune into a recon animal.  A bird, if there are any still in range, but a rabbit or somesuch will work as well.

Charging Bear:

Inside the barn there are faint traces of a wounded man, and the native son is able to get a rough idea of what had happened here...the wounded man rolled out the fire bowl, spent some time near the circle, possibly napping, then left. however, when he left, he no longer moved like a wounded man.

Charging Bear followed the trail. It took him quite a while, for though he had a good trail to follow, he was on foot, so by the time he reached the gully where the trail lead, Ward, Augustus, and the Dust Adders were already there.

---

Carl & Augustus

The Dust Adders creep along, warily. This area does seem to be a lovely spot for an ambush

Meanwhile, Augustus, fiddling with the knobs, notices the area is very, very quiet...too quiet. But he does manage to zero in on a presence in the sky. A sparrow, flapping around looking for worms, heads the call of his device and lands nearby. It looks up at him.

"Whatcha want?" It whistles.

Carrying Augustus's sonic neurological disruptor made Charging Bear long for his bow and most definitely his horse, Swift Wind. He looked into the gully and knew death awaited, he'd seen it in the war. Generals were always happy when a scout brought back information about a gully like this. Meant they could get the upper hand on the enemy. Who's the enemy today? Shouldering the device, Charging Bear looked to get to the top of the gully and hopefully see who or what was a head of the group.

Uneasy, Carl doesn't stop his horse backing a pace from Augustus' strange device, alternately watching Ward for any decisions and the landscape for any sign of Nate or one of the lads being slightly careless in their approach. It's during the latter activity he spots a dash of grey and buckskin - he clears his throat and points the figure out to Ward, realising as he does so that it's the injun again.

"..."

Once more the very proud smile curls Augustus' lips as his device tunes in. He lifts the device to speak more easily into it, depressing the transmit button as he does so, "Greetings, little friend.  We're looking for another human who may be there.  Would you mind popping over and having a look around that gully?  Just tell me what may be around that smoke?"  Releasing the transmit button, he turns to his new companions, especially the doctor, "I found a nice sparrow who may be willing to fly in and look around for us.  Lovely bird the sparrow."

Ward looks and nods. "Thank you for pointing him out. We wouldn't want the deputy to get caught in a crossfire. Signal the men to be cautious."

Meanwhile, the bird chips back to Augustus and flutters off. It flies high, circling around the camp, then returns.

"See one human all wrapped up near fire, not moving. Sleepy, maybe." it chips. "See another behind, climbing rock. Dark skin, not pale like you. Got food?"

[Private to Charging Bear: Make me a Climbing roll to get to the top of the gully.]

Augustus quickly pats down his pockets looking for something, looking quite ashamed really.  Glancing around to the group nearby, he sheepishly inquires, "Terribly sorry, but would anyone happen to have a piece of biscuit? Or bread of any kind?  Perhaps some grain or seed?"  Then more pointedly to Dr. Ward, by way of explanation for his sudden interest in foodstuffs, "The very kind sparrow says there is only one man by the fire.  He's wrapped up and not moving very much.  The bird feels that he may be sleepy.  He also says there is a darker skinned....Oh."  He trails off a little as he catches on that the others already know about the Indian.  Shaking his head a little, he mutters, maybe to himself or perhaps to the bird, "I do not look foolish...  I was just being polite..."

Something feels wrong. Something feels wrong about all of this, and it's not just that they seem to be taking the advice of a man who talks to birds. Carl nudges his sorrel a little nearer Ward, nodding at his words and looking for permission to ride on into the gulley and see what's going on.

If he gets it, he'll briefly dismount and kick over a rock/log for the bird before remounting and kicking off to a loping canter, beckoning to Jesse if he's not already at his side with the grin of the about-to-be-shot-at.

She was quiet for a moment. It didn't sound right to her.. She looked around for a moment.. it seems the dark man in her head didn't have anything to add at all and it made her frown. Perhaps there was a method to madness afterall.

" Wouldn't make any more sense if it was a witch doctor... Just.. Dun't make sense.. " She looked to the clank. " Ya might say he ain't a witch, but sceince is close to dark magic as I ever fukin seen. You can't tell me that clank is just made out of steam, scrap, and bolts cause some smart ass in a white coat stuck it together. It eats ghostrock for damn sakes, ya know how explosive that shit is? Angel my ass." She growled, taking off her coolie for a moment to an herself. It was starting to get warm out here. danny's story and the truth behind it was less important. Somewhere out here was someone responisble for this bullshit and it didn't matter to her whom had to die, not even herself, as long as it stopped.

" If I dun't come back ta da ranch by sun down, tell Doc I got mehself killed.. Other then that. You gunna take da clank back down there wit'cha?"

Charging Bear looks up the wall of the gully and starts to move up but doesn't get overly far... seems he isn't much of a climber.

OOC: Fail!
08:33, Today: Charging Bear rolled -1,2 using 1d4-2,1d6-2, rerolling max with rolls of 1,4. Climbing.
08:34, Today: Charging Bear rolled 1,0 using 1d4-2,1d6-2, rerolling max with rolls of 3,2. Climbing (White Chip).
This message was last edited by the player at 12:38, Tue 12 Oct 2010.

As Carl rides off, Dr. Ward pulls out his small, silver charm. He begins muttering something under his breath that Augustus can't quite make out. It sounds Latin...perhaps a prayer of some kind?

Meanwhile the bird flutters off and starts pecking at the insects uncovered by the Dust Adder kicking over the rock. It chirps happily.

---

Carl nears the campsite, and something strikes him as odd. There is indeed a figure in the bed roll, but it isn't moving. At all. It's not even seeming to breathe..in fact, the closer he gets, the more it looks like someone wrapped up a bunch of blankets and shoved them under another blanket...Oh crap...

---

Nathanial grinned from his hiding spot on the opposite ridge of the gully. He had a perfectly clear shot at Ward now. He aimed carefully...squeezed the trigger...

---

*BANG!*

The shot hit Ward high, and he slid off his horse to the ground.

The ambush had begun.

[[OOC: We are now in Combat Rounds! Carl, since you're controlling the dust Adders, you give them commands and I'll post their actions. Refer to the new map I'm posting as soon as I'm done with this post.

Nathanial spends a few actions casting magical protection, as well as dropping a Blue Chip from the GM pool to make himself especially hard to hit. He has cover on top of the ridge from being prone, and was hiding, which was why the bird didn't spot him.

He takes a shot at Ward with The Drop, but he has a penalty to hit because of Ward's action and his curse (not range, though...he's using a Spencer Carbine, which has a shot range of 24).

Nathaniel Frost rolled 8,6 using d8+1,d6+1, rerolling max with rolls of 7,5. Shooting with The Drop. Still enough to hit with a raise.

Today: Secret Roll: Nathaniel Frost rolled 11,1 using 2d8,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 7,4,1. damage. That's a total of 12, +6 for his Smite and The Drop, which is a grand total of 18 damage to Ward. That's a Shaken and 3 wounds.

Ward spends a White Chip from the GM pool to soak.

Dr. Dexter Ward rolled 2,4 using d6,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 2,4. soak attempt. That only soaks 1 wound.

He spends a red chip to try and increase this: Dr. Dexter Ward rolled 3 using 1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 3. red chip. Not enough for a raise. Ward takes 2 wounds, is knocked of his horse, and is Shaken.]]

---

Initiative:
Augustus Spotswood: QD
Dr. Ward: 10H
Charging Bear: 5D
Carl & The Dust Adders: 3H
Nathaniel Frost: 2H

Hearing the shot, Charging Bear knew he had no time to be quiet. He see Ward as the man get shot off his horse. The line of fire clear, the native son tires harder to get up the gully.

OOC: Updated based on map
13:51, 13:51, Today: Charging Bear rolled 1,0 using 1d4-2,1d6-2, rerolling max with rolls of 3,2. Climbing.
Today: Charging Bear rolled 4 using 1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 4. Blue Chip.
5 to climb the gully.

13:35, Today: Charging Bear drew the single card: JD using a deck of 54 cards. Initiative.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:52, Tue 12 Oct 2010.

The sudden gunfire comes as quite a surprise to Augustus, "Doctor!"  His dismount is ungainly but swift and the scientist stumbles over to the fallen man.  His thumb clicks down on the transmit button on his device, into which he yells, "There's someone shooting at us!  Can you distract him!?  Please!?"

OOC - Action to get down from horse, move to the Doctor and check him real quick with a 4, just to see if he's alive.  Sending the sparrow to "distract", however a sparrow may.

Next Initiative Draw - 3S
This message was last edited by the player at 12:31, Wed 13 Oct 2010.

Augustus rushes over to Ward and begins to check him over. Ward groans. "I believe...I've been shot." He says to Augustus. He's probably talking to keep himself from slipping into shock. "Medical bag...on the saddle. Field wound kit. Wound...is on the left shoulder. Can't tell...if the bullet passed through." he looks around. "Too exposed here...need to get under cover."

[[OOC: Augustus, what's your card for the next round?]]

Next up: Carl

"Yeah, I'll grant it's weird, but he's been taught in all them fancy schools Back East, and we ain't, so he knows more about his science than we do." Gus says philosophically.

At the question, Gus scoffed. "I ain't doing shit with that thing. Let it rust out here for all I care. Naw, I'm gonna do my job. I gotta see you to the edge o' the property, and that's what I'm gonna do. I can at least see you don't git yerself killed afore you reach them Comanches, though once yer past that yer on yer own."

It may be warm now, but a chill wind was bringing a dark stormhead in from the East. Thunder rumbled from the bruise-colored clouds baring down on them.

It was the birds, Carl realised as he rode into the gulley. The birds hadn’t been singing when they got here: someone had been moving around. He rode hard and low towards the false camp, expecting a shot to ring out and pinpoint Frost’s position wherever he was above...but not the one that came.

Mike’s rifle rang out from the mouth of the gully. That explained why he hadn’t brought it out today.

Carl wheeled his horse’s head about, almost at the too-wet fire with what-all Frost had set by it, cursing himself, Ward and Frost in equal measure. Nate had stolen Mike’s carbine. They’d been in range the whole time. Swearing inwardly, Carl motions to Jesse to ride around behind the tree and down around the bend of the gulley whilst Frost’s distracted; he should be able to get out and eventually around behind Nate without being seen.

Carl gestures to Tom and Percy to dismount and take cover if they haven’t already and rides back the way he came, jerking a hand at Frank to haul himself and his horse into the shrubbery. Mike is nowhere to be seen in that brief glimpse and is probably already in cover - Carl trusts him to look after himself.

The Dust Adder reins up beside Augustus' horse, taking a glance to see whether Ward’s alive then staring up at the gullyside scrub. He clears his throat, spotting the injun again and hoping like Hell he’ll keep his head down. How did this go again? Ah, yeah…

“How many of us you gon’ kill, Nate?”


[[init: 10D]]
This message was last edited by the player at 07:36, Wed 13 Oct 2010.

As the Dust Adders rear off and find cover, or go and take the long way around, Nathanial watches from his makeshift sniper nest. he heard someone scrambling up the sides of the gully near him, and trained his gun over there, waiting for the sonovabitch to show his head so Nate could blow it off. If only that damn bird would stop flapping about his head!

Carl called out to him. That was interesting. Nathanial hadn't heard Carl speak more than a handful of times. That deserved an answer, at least.

"No more than I gotta, Carl! No more than I gotta! You call the boys off, and ya'll will walk out of here alive! I just want another clean shot at Ward, a horse, and two-days head start!"

He cocks the level, chambering another round. "Oh! And a word of warning to whoever's coming up the side there! I see your noggin, I'ma gonna turn it into a meat salad, comprende?"

[[OOC: Nathanial Holds his action.

Charging Bear, you are right at the top of the gully. You could pull yourself over and charge, but then you'd have to beat Nathanial in an opposed Agility test to reach him before he shoots.]]

---

Next Round:

Nathanial: On hold
Charging Bear: JD
Carl & The Dust Adders: 10D
Ward: 6S
Augustus: 3S

Dropping stunner and moving with intent, Charging Bear's feet propel him up the gully wall and towards Nathaniel. While taking him alive would be preferable, the man had shown his intentions, and Charging Bear couldn't let him kill again. The native son's hand right hand brought forth his favored weapon by pure reflex and with it he crossed the distance in seconds. The tomahawk and Charging Bear's arm acted as one and with a vicious fury the blade arcs fro Nathanial's head. But it only manage to graze the hired gun's hat.

OOC:
13:39, Today: Charging Bear rolled 5,5 using 1d8,1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 5,5. Agility.
13:39, Today: Charging Bear rolled 3 using 1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 3. Blue Chip.
Agility check of 8

Modifiers for my fighting roll
 +2  Unarmed Defender
 +2  Wild Attack
 -4  Called Shot Head
+0 total

13:55, Today: Charging Bear rolled 4,5 using 1d8,1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 4,5. Fighting (+2 Unarm,+2WA,-4Head).
And a big fat miss... and I'm out of chips
This message was last edited by the player at 17:58, Wed 13 Oct 2010.

Nathanial leaps to his feet as Charging Bear rushes him. Fortunately for the native son, he manages to get into the gunslinger's face before he can shoot. Nathanial is forced to block the Indian's tomahawk swings with the rifle instead of shooting it.

However, the wild swings leave Charging Bear wide open for retaliation, and Nathanial brings the butt of the carbine up into the Indian's jaw with a sickening *CRACK!* that leaves the Cherokee seeing stars. His balance on the ledge is precarious...the ground is crumbling...

[[OOC: Your modifiers were wrong. Nathanial is not an umarmed defender...he has the rifle, which counts as a club in melee. Also, he has Deflection active for an additional -4 penalty to hit.

Nathanial uses his Held action.

Nathaniel Frost rolled 2,2 using d8-1,d6-1, rerolling max with rolls of 3,3. attempt to interrupt!

Fail. CB gets his action first, then Nathanial goes.

Nathaniel Frost rolled 2,7 using d8-1,d6-1, rerolling max with rolls of 3,(6+2)8. Rifle Whip! That hits.

Nathanial has Smite active on the Carbine, so he gets a +2 bonus to the damage.

Nathaniel Frost rolled 4,4 using d6,d4+2, rerolling max with rolls of 4,2. Damage. 8 damage. That makes Charging Bear Shaken.

Also, Charging Bear needs to make an Agility check to keep his balance or tumble down the ridge for a bunch of falling damage.]]
This message was last edited by the player at 18:26, Wed 13 Oct 2010.

Charging Bear's footing crumbles under him and the native son isn't quite quick enough to get to solid ground. He tumbles down the gully wall to the floor below.

OOC: Well it was worth a shot anyways... next character won't be Heroic
14:24, Today: Charging Bear rolled 2,2 using 1d8,1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 2,2. Agility.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:26, Wed 13 Oct 2010.

In reply to Charging Bear (msg #181):

[[OOC: Charging Bear tumbles 4 squares to the gully's bottom, so that's 4d6 damage

The Stray rolled 16 using 4d6, rerolling max with rolls of 4,5,3,4. Rolling Down the gully! That's a Shaken and 2 wounds. since CB was already Shaken, that's 3 wounds total.

Now, because he's rolling down a hill, I'm counting these "wounds" as Bumbs and Bruises, which are levels of Fatigue, not Wounds, and aren't lethal.

You can roll vigor to soak these levels. If you manage to soak all 3, you'll no longer be Shaken. If you don't soak at least one, you'll be knocked out for an hour.

If CB is put out of action, do you want to take on the role of some of the Dust adders again?]]

OOC:
14:46, Today: Charging Bear rolled 4,1 using 1d6,1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 4,1. Soak Roll?.

and I soak 1!
This message was last edited by the player at 18:50, Wed 13 Oct 2010.

In reply to Charging Bear (msg #183):

[[OOC: Yup, it's a free soak because these are Bumps & Bruises, not actual "wounds" per se. That soaks one fatigue level, so you are currently Exhausted and Shaken at the end of your fall.]]

Charing Bear tumbles head over heels down the gully wall. He lands flat on his back on the gully floor, and the wind is knocked out of the native son. He lets out a low groan.

OOC: Forgot...
15:39, Today: Charging Bear drew the single card: 2S using a deck of 54 cards. Initiative.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:39, Wed 13 Oct 2010.

Carl draws his pistol and aims to take a shot at the deputy’s arm, hoping to get him out of the way, but the man is up and over the ledge like a panther. This annoyance merely adds fuel to the silent anger building in Carl’s chest. Shoot Ward, sure. Might as well shoot themselves, save time when the work was gone and they all had to turn hired gun or bank robber.

He gives a soft snort as the injun sails back the way he came and returns his gaze to the brush above without bothering to watch the impact. He gives Nate a little time to settle. When they finally arrive, Carl’s words are measured, slow.

“I ain’t draggin’ you to no damnyank marshall, Nate. Y’got two of ours kilt last night. I let you go, folks’ll talk. Talk ’bout a gang you can kill off any ol’ how without losin’ any sleep of nights. ‘Bout the chief who lit on out acause some tinhorn said ‘boo’ to him an’ skedaddled all the way to Mexico ‘count of the boys bein’ even yellower’n him.” Carl pauses, lets that sink in. How they‘d lose the town, how Nate’s reputation would fall from feared outlaw to small-time bully.

He glances down and to the side. Alive, then. Just. “…Ward’s out of it.” He clears his throat. “I got a proposition for you: quit hidin’ an’ git down here. One on one. Could be you’ll have trouble with Mike n’ Jess if I die, but not without my say-so. We'll have tried. No-one else‘ll touch you.”
Carl falls silent.

Nathanial watched Charging Bear tumble down the slope.

"That's for the leg, friend." he mutters.

Then he hears Carl call him out. He listens, and grins. A one-on-one duel? A chance to prove who was superior?

Hell yes.

"Alright, Carl! I'm comin' down. You got your one-on-one!"

He carefully took his time coming down the slope, stopping near the native son's fallen body. He didn't look down, just took a space in the middle of the field.

As he did, he mentally let his spell of protection lapse. Carl was a comrade. He would do this the right way. He casually rested the carbine on his shoulder and waited for Carl to do the same.

[[OOC: And thus a duel begins. Here's some mood music to set the stage.]]

Charging Bear did his best not to laugh, to be honest he didn't have the wind to so he managed quite well. He didn't know Carl from a hill of anything really, but the man had spunk. Slowly, the native son got to his feet causing dust to fall off him and his body to cry in protest. Taking a few steps, he retrieved his tomahawk and began to dust himself off. He would let the two dual, it didn't harm anything, but the out come didn't matter... Frost was going to see justice.

OOC: GREAT music by the bye.

Carl throws his pistol aside, dismounts and leads his roan a few steps out of danger before pacing back to face Frost, shotgun likewise slung at shoulder, face impassive. He tugs his hatbrim to his opponent and squares off, fighting the mad urge to whistle.

He meets Frost's gaze.

Time seems to hang hazy in the air as the two face off. Nate stalks about whilst Carl shifts now and then, boots stirring the dust. Each watches every twitch or move the other makes.

"You know this is a fool's errand, Carl." Nathanial says. "You've seen me shoot. I can Snip the wings off a Sparrow in mid flight. You have to use that scattergun to hit the broad side of a barn."

Carl doesn't reply. He just stares.

Nathanial swallows. "Just think about it, Carl. We team up, take out Ward and the Deputy, maybe hunt down the Marshal, not only do we have all of Ward's money, there won't be a soul in town who'd speak ill of us. We'd be the kings of our own little slice of heaven."

Carl just stares.

Nathanial is sweating now. "I'm giving you one last chance, Carl. You've seen the tricks I can do. I've done a deal, got myself a genuine Faustian pact like Gus done. Even if you shoot me down, I'll get back up again. I'll do what I gotta, but you can't kill me. I'm invincible!"

Carl. Just. Stares.




*CRACKOOM!*




Thunder rumbles as the storm moves in. Wind whips through the gully, playing with dusters.

It's Nathanial who breaks first. He whips his carbine into a firing position...

Carl is slightly quicker, however, and drops the shotgun off his shoulder with a shrug...




*KAPOW!*





Carl slumps slightly, red spreading across his shirt from the wound in his shoulder.

Nathanial, on the other hand, has collapsed. Buckshot has shredded his clothes, and a dozen holes in his flesh drip blood.

"no..." he gasps. "...this...can't...be..."

[[OOC: Carl and Nathanial duel.

Nathanial loses the Test of Wills to Carl.

Nathanial wins the card game, but only just.

Both shoot for speed.

Carl takes 8 damage and is Shaken.

Nathanial takes 15 damage, is Shaken, and takes 2 wounds.]]
This message was last edited by the player at 22:02, Wed 13 Oct 2010.

For a moment everything seems stopped, caught in the stormlight like gnats in amber. Then Carl leans his head back and takes a breath. Alive.

Pain stabs his shoulder. Jerked back into the rush of Time, Carl remembers what he came to do. Also the matter of Nate getting up again. Carl paces steadily over to his fallen opponent, tiny drops of crimson hitting the dust with each step, and pushes the shotgun gently against Nate's skull.

The gunman closes his eyes.

"Do it." he says. "You done earned it."

Carl does it.

Resume Posting on the Chapter 7.2 Thread.