The Last Patrol

[Scarlet Angel]

"I was sure you were thinking about Patches." Scarlet replied to Ella then looked at the man who had asked "she is one of the other ladies Marshal Ross employes."

[1stSgt Fritz King]

"Request permission to address the men, sir."

Bill nodded.  "Granted."

Fritz lowered his hand and executed an about face.

He called out "stand at ease!"

The unit relaxed some.

"I'm Lieutenant King.  And before you ask, yes, I am a little old for a Lieutenant."

That drew a chuckle or two.

"That's becuase I've been with this unit longer than most of you have been alive.  I served with the Second on the plains, and the rode East for the war.  After a brief stint at Jefferson Barracks, I served with the Second again.  I've been absent for the past few years, but..." 

Fritz looked at Scott.

"...the Second has always been my home.  Now there's only room for one First Sergeant.  1stSgt Crisp has served admirably and well.  You are his men now.  But I am here to command.  I will work with both the Captain and the First Sergeant, to ensure that you come home alive from this fight...and come home victorious."

Fritz was on the move now.

"We have roughly a month to hone our fighting edge to razor-sharp perfection.  I will give each of you 100 per cent of my effort.  And I expect and demand no less of each of you.  Today, I want you to rest and relax as much as possible.  I hope to meet all of you today.  Because tomorrow, WE GO TO WORK."

Fritz moved back to the front and center.

"COMPANY...ATTENTION!"

Fritz executed an about-faced and saluted.

"Sir, what are your orders?"

Bill smiled.  "Carry out the plan of the day, Lieutenant."

Fritz smiled.  "Aye sir."

Captain Schurman lowered his hand and returned to his tent.

Fritz stepped into the commander's position.

"First Sergeant."

Scott stepped forward.

"Take charge of your soldiers and carry out the plan of the day."     

[Elegant Ella]

"I think Becca looks a little farther along than Patches," replied Ella.  "But maybe I'll accumulate enough rabbit pelts for two baby blankets."

The cook for the fort had come over to the camp once his duties in the mess were complete.  There was still plenty of food for him. 

"May I use your kitchen and supplies for making bread tomorrow?" Ella asked.

"I don't mind if you do, but I ain't got any starter.  Damfool used it all in a batch of bread while I was sick.  I ain't had no luck getting a sourdough going, and I cain't get a fresh start when it takes provisions so many days to get here from Cheyenne.  No one on the supplies wagon is willing to learn enough 'womens work' to keep it going," grumbled the cook.

"The cook at Fort Laramie said his starter was extra-special, and he gave me some," replied Ella. 

"You must have charmed him sure enough, because he is right proud of that starter.  He never offered to let me have none of it.  But then I didn't have no way to get it from there to here any how."

[Scarlet Angel]

The festivities wound down in the late evening and everyone went to their quarters.

Sleep didn't come easy for Scarlet when she finally did fall asleep  her dreams were  filled with death and the dark rider whose presence she had grown at ease with.

Scarlet rolled over took a deep breath finally falling back to sleep again. This time the dream started more pleasantly. She saw Fritz sitting near the fire, the look on his face was familiar, it was the look he got when he didn't think it possible he could be any happier.

"Your son, like his father grows impatient for your appearance milady." Fritz called towards the bedroom.

A pleasant laugh unfamiliar to Scarlet came from their bedroom; followed by a blonde woman that Scarlet didn't recognize. The woman walked to Fritz, picked up the baby then kissed him deeply.

"I love you." She said softly looking into his eyes as she caressed his cheek.

"I've known happiness but nothing like what you have given me." He said standing so she could sit.

Scarlet's eyes flew open. It was dark and she heard soft breathing near her; for a moment she wasn't sure where she was or who she was with, her mind finally focused and she recognized Ella's breathing. She would have rather had the dreams of death and the dark rider than have seen that. After lying there for longer than she could stand it, Scarlet quietly slipped out of bed, taking extra care not to wake Ella.

She needed some time alone. Her emotions were playing hell with her mind, and her body felt off. She knew the depression and anger she was keeping bottled up came from the fact she felt she was saddled with a death sentence, perhaps not her own, but still the feeling nagged her in spite of what Ella said about it.

Ella had tired her best to assure Scarlet everything would be ok, Alan was successful doing Caesarian deliveries. What Scarlet felt like she couldn't seem to get through to Ella is the entire pregnancy didn't feel right. This time was very different from the first time she had been pregnant. Ella had made the comment in passing that dark thoughts could be self fulfilling, while she understood why Scarlet had them perhaps if Scarlet had more positive thoughts they also would be self fulfilling. She had had a few positive feelings but she couldn't seem to hold them for very long.  It seemed to Scarlet every time she managed to forget her condition for a moment something happened to remind her. Ella was a good friend and Scarlet was glad to have her close by, she just wished she would stop talking about babies for awhile or giving her that look that said you should be careful.

Scarlet needed a day to clear her mind and gather her thoughts, regroup in a sense. It didn't matter it was before four a.m she couldn't stay put any longer. She wrote a note for Ella that simply said "Gone riding need some time to myself will return before nightfall" She was pretty sure Ella would understand. 
Even when Scarlet was happy she liked to get on her horse and go, more so when she was unhappy and most of the time it did the trick. She would be in a better frame of mind when she returned, she always was.

Scarlet placed the note where she knew Ella would find it, and then wrote one to leave on Lucky's stall that said "Gone riding, back by nightfall." That way nobody would get the wrong idea. She then quietly slipped out the door.

Just being alone in the cool night air seemed to help. Only the guards were up this time of day.  He simply tipped his hate as Scarlet went by. She figured they had become used to her checking on her horse at all hours of the day and she acknowledged him with a smile then went on her way.

Scarlet could feel the excitement of just being alone as she approached the stall and heard Lucky nicker softly. Scarlet smiled and put the rope around his neck. The only gear she intended to take today was what she wore on her belt, her canteen and saddle bags, which she had put a few things to eat, no saddle no bridle. She opened the gate, patted his nose and placed the saddle bags over his back.

She had lead Lucky out of the stall when the shadow of a man in Buck's stall made her jump. Her hand went immediately to her pistol, but she didn't draw. Looking again she recognized Tensleep's form in the darkness. For a moment she thought about turning and going out the opposite end of the stable so he wouldn't see her, then decided she would just go by and if he said anything she would tell him she was going for a ride, she would not hide that. Scarlet made more noise than she normally would just. so Tensleep would know he had company in the stables and know it was her so she wouldn't spook him.

[Scarlet Angel]

Co effort of Tensleep and Scarlet

"What did we do wrong Buck? Becca wanted this baby an' I wanted this baby, wish I knew why she lost the baby...." Tensleep continued to curry the big buckskin. His subconcious mind prickled.

"Scarlet? Scarlet is that you?"

"Yes, it's me." Scarlet replied. "I am headed out to find a good place to watch the sunrise."
   
"Care for some company?" Tensleep turned to look at Scarlet. She could see the pain in his eyes.

She really didn't, she'd been so looking forward to being alone. She hadn't heard what he was saying to Buck but the tone of his voice and the pain in his eyes told her her friend needed to go just as badly as she did.

"I don't plan on tracking anybody, Tensleep. I'm just going for one of those 'therapy rides' as you guys so often like to call them, but you know you're always welcome."

"Don't want to crowd you... maybe I'll just take me a ride too... south."

Part of her wanted to say ok and just keep going but she couldn't.

"Therapy rides are good for two. If you decide you've had enough or you want to be alone then you can turn around. One of the rules of a therapy ride though. What is said or seen out there stays out there unless the other person ok's it becoming public knowledge." She grinned but her tone was serious.   

Tensleep grabbed his bridle and slid it over Buck's head. "Sounds reasonable to me. Let me saddle up."

"Ok." She replied and went back to where she had put the note on Lucky's stall. She was going to write that Tensleep went too on her note but didn't find anything to write with.

"I left a note in case anybody got excited about me being gone. I was gonna add your name to it but I don't have anything to write with, unless you do we can tell one of the guards to pass along the message."

"I think that is probably best, have the sentinel tell the officer of the guard. That way it gets entered into the day book or whatever it is they call it these days." He paused a moment. "OK, I'm ready, lets get outta here."

Scarlet swung up on Lucky's back. Somehow she didn't feel like she needed to quietly slip out the gate now.

Scarlet and Tensleep rode side by side to the gate.

As they approached they heard "Halt!"

"Easy pard... John Ross, US Marshal an' US Deputy Marshal Corbin goin' on routine patrol, please inform the officer of the guard and let us pass." Tensleep had raised himself in the saddle so that the guard could recognize him.

The guard looked close at Scarlet, he thought it strange the horse had not saddle or bridle but he was not going to question the Marshal.

"Let them pass." The guard said.

The two horses picked up an easy lope and disappeared into the dark.

They rode silently for about 3 miles then Tensleep broke the quiet. "Lots to think about Deputy?"

Scarlet knew that there was a wink after the question even if she couldn't see it.

"I don't see no deputies out here." She said he could hear the smile in her voice. "Left her on the inside of that fort."

Scarlet knew he'd asked a question but she played it off like it had been a statement. "What's on you're mind. I've always been a good listener and since I make up the rules of therapy rides I never break them." She laughed softly.

"Well actually lots of stuff, but mostly Becca. We thought she was pregnant when I left El Paso. Got a letter that broke my heart yesterday. The doctor told her that it's a 'false pregnancy.' I don't understand that, we both want a baby so badly."

Scarlet's head snapped around so fast she nearly lost her balance. "Is she ok?"

Tensleep sighed, "Yeah, she's fine physically, but she is depressed and disappointed. She is with Rose now. I think that is best for her, she doesn't need to be in the Ace."

"Those girls are like family to her. They will all be supportive; a lot of them have had all kinds of experiences. When Becca told them she was pregnant it was like they all were gonna have that baby. I'm really sorry." Tensleep could hear the sadness in Scarlet's voice. "We gonna head back so you can be with her?"

[Elegant Ella]

Boston

Alan was in a good mood when he returned to the Widow Erdbeer's house that afternoon, riding on the seat of the cart carrying his two trunks.  The cart driver helped Alan get the trunks onto the widow's doorstep before Alan rang the bell. 

"Welcome, Dr. Coatsworth.  Your room is upstairs, will you need help to get your trunks there?" asked Mrs. Erdbeer. 

"No, thank you," replied Alan.  "I divided the books between the two trunks so that I can manage them one at a time." 

"I'll show you your room then." 

Alan took one trunk with him when he followed her.  After he had taken the second trunk upstairs, he found her in the kitchen, working on dinner.  "May I help?" he asked.

"Please peel those potatoes for latkes," she instructed, pointing at a couple potatoes next to a bowl.

"What kind of latkes do you make?" he asked, starting to peel with a paring knife.  "My mother made the kind with coarsely-grated potatoes.  Ella's grandmother made a different kind, with the potatoes finely grated and pressed almost dry."

"What kind does Ella make?" she asked. 

"Ella's latkes are just like the ones I grew up on.  I guess she learned from my mother when we were living with my parents after we first married." 

"How was your lecture today?"

"It went very well.  Everything today went well.  The lawyer I consulted assured me that it is easy for me to leave the partnership.  The school agreed to have me give two lectures per week instead of one, so that I will complete the lecture series by the end of June instead of in September.  And since the stipend is based on number of lectures, instead of number of weeks, I will earn the same amount of money."

Alan was silent for a moment, seemingly absorbed in peeling the second potato.  "I was wondering something," he asked.  "Other people in the community have asked me when Ella would be joining me, but you asked if I had heard from her.  It seems you know more about her than anyone else does."

"She writes to me a couple times per month.  I had a letter from her just a couple days ago."

"Written after she had received my last letter?"

"Yes.  I can show it to you after dinner."

[1stSgt Fritz King]

The day was drawing to a close.  He'd met most of the men, and was sadly disappointed.  He'd expected more veterans, but ran across mostly green kids with dreams about how romantic the cavalry would be.  He thought of how he felt as a young man, so many years ago.

"Fritz...is that you?"

The voice was familiar.  He turned, and saw a young Sergeant.  There was something about the eyes...

"Johann?"

Johann was surprised as well.  He expected chevrons, not bars.  He quickly saluted.

Fritz returned the salute, and extened his hand. 

"How the hell are you, Sir?"

Fritz smiled.  "Good Johann.  The years have been good to you as well."

"It's just like you said," Johann replied.  "You stick around long enough, and they'll promote anyone!"

The two shared a laugh.

Fritz asked, "Do you still take a drink?"

"Whenever I can get one...you got one?'

"Come on, let's go back to my tent."

The walk was brief, and the company welcome.  It was good to see old friends again.  Johann was a "hard case" from the old days, a young man full of piss and vinegar who thought he couldn't live as a soldier.  He was a discipline problem at first, but became a splendid trooper.  He was first in the fight, both in and out of a battle.  Fritz had convinced him that the Army was a good career, and he'd stayed.  Johann survived the drawdown, and his experience brought promotions.

The two sat in Fritz's tent, blowing smoke rings and sipping the last of his good bourbon.

"So," Fritz asked, "tell me about the men."

Johann sighed.  "They're green as new-mown grass.  They're eager...maybe too much so.  Most of 'em haven't 'seen the elephant' yet.  I hope they survive the encounter."

Fritz nodded.  "If you were to pooint out one critical fault in their training, what would it be?"

"Just one?  Well, that makes it tough."

"Come on...be honest."

"Okay," Johann said.  "Marksmenship training.  These kids can't shoot worth a damn.  They get twenty rounds a year to practice with.  Hell, in the old days, we fired double that in every skirmish.  But the bean-counters back in Washington want to save money.  That's why we're back to a single shot rifle.  I'd rather have my Spencer back...or a Henry."

"Don't knock the Springfield," Fritz replied.  "It gave me good service down in Mexico."

Johann nodded.  "Is that why you brought a '66?"

Fritz looked to the carbine on his bunk.  "I've gotten used to the firepower while serving with the Marshals.  If we're close-in fighting, I'll use it.  If it's a distant fight, the Springfield's a good choice.  Same as my Sharps."

Fritz drained his cup.  "Johann, I think it's time to see how well our men shoot.  I'll talk to the Captain in the morning.  Make sure the men clean their rifles tonight."

Johann stood and saluted.  "Aye sir."       

[Scarlet Angel]

"Nope, not unless Becca or Rose sends for me. Gonna finish up this case just like any other." Tensleep responded after a few minutes.

Scarlet nodded in understanding. "Doc Woods is a good man, a good doctor if there is such a thing."

Tensleep looked sideways at her. Scarlet chuckled.

"When Becca and I took over the Ace I insisted the girls have a good doctor, not the town butcher, well maybe the butcher would've been ok, but not the man calls himself the doctor of El Paso." Scarlet said bitterly. "I had met Woods in Galveston; he's got an office there. Makes rounds to the Ace every three or four months unless we call him sooner."

Lucky dipped his head and swung it sideways.

"I am headed to the spot we hunted. Lucky says he wants to run, I'll meet you there if you can't keep up."

Before Tensleep could respond Lucky was disappearing into the darkness. Buck's head was up his ears perked forward waiting for Tensleep to let him run.

Scarlet was off of Lucky when Tensleep caught up to them. She had her hand lightly on the stallion's nose. His head was tucked and his ears forward, his nostrils fluttered but he made no noise.   

Tensleep dismounted and walked up next to them. Scarlet pointed with her free hand.

The rising sun danced on the rippling water.

"Is a beautiful sight to see." He said.

"Wait." She whispered. "There look."

The foal was first to appear followed closely by his mother into the stream for a drink. The foal put his nose to the water then lifted his head looking in their direction; droplets of water fell from his whiskers.

Scarlet's eyes danced as she watched the mare and foal, who were soon joined by the rest of the herd. She stood still until the herd had moved off, than began to walk.

"You ever wonder where you'd be or the people you love would be if your paths had never crossed?" She said looking at Tensleep.

[1stSgt Fritz King]

He'd only managed about four hours of sleep.  Fritz was an early riser out of habit, but there was more to it.  Perhaps he was excited.  Being in this element again reminded him of his younger days.  It was still dark outside, at least an hour before Sgt Powell would call "Reveille."  He'd stoked his stove, and boiled water and coffee.  He'd turned his lamp up, and dug the shaving mirror out of his saddle bags.  As he lathered up, he looked at the reflection in the steel.  He pulled out the old razor; it was the one he'd been issued all those years ago.  He'd honed it so often that maybe half of the blade remained. 

"Old razor...old face," he remarked.

After shaving, he dressed and made sure his boots were clean.  He wore his prairie belt, so there was no brass to polish, and none to reflect the light.  His weapons were immaculate.  With his tin cup in hand, Fritz opened the tent flap and welcomed the day.

The men were formed up in four ranks.  Boots and brass shone in the early morning light.  1stSgt Crisp stood to the right of the formation.  As Fritz approached, he snapped to, and executed an about face.

"Company...Attention!  Open ranks...March."  Scott faced about and saluted.  "Sir, the company is formed."

"Very well First Sergeant," Fritz replied.  "Take your post."

Scott boxed Fritz, taking his position one pace to the left, and one to the rear.  As they moved to the first trooper, he executed "inspection arms," opening the breech of his carbine and holding it at port arms.  Fritz snatched the carbine away, and began checking it.  The exterior was clean.  Fritz stuck a finger into the chamber and wiggled it about.

"Carbon," Fritz said, looking at his hand.  "You need to do a better job on the chamber."

The young man nodded.  Fritz handed the weapon back.

"Chamber a round."

The trooper was wearing a Fair Weather Christian belt.  The first such belts were stripped saber belts, with leather loops sewn on for cartridges.  Later versions had canvas loops.  Eventually, the prairie belt came out, which was all canvas except the tongue.  It took some effort, but the trooper eventually pulled a cartridge free.  Encircling the center of the cartridge was a green band.  When he tried to chamber the round, the cartridge jammed about half way in.  Not good.

"Every man wearing a variant or Fair Weather Christian belt, take one step forward."

Over half the company moved.

Fritz said, "All of you remove one round from your belt."

After a bit of tugging they pulled rounds free.

"Examine your cartridges.  That green band in the center is called verdigris.  It is a form of rust that forms on brass and copper.  It's a waxy buildup that will jam the action of your carbine when you need it most...in the middle of a firefight.  It's not enough to clean your weapons.  You must wipe down your ammo as well."

Fritz continued his inspection.  Their uniforms and equipment were clean and serviceable.  But it was the weapons and ammo he was most concerned about.  Once the last man was inspected, Fritz returned to the front of the formation.  He gave the command, "Close ranks...March!"  Once the ranks closed, Fritz called "At ease!  In garrison, or on the parade deck, shined boots and polished brass are encouraged.  In the field, I don't give a tinker's cuss how clean your boots are."

The men chuckled.

"On the trail, shiny brass reflects light.  A Sioux war party will see your waist plate a mile away."

No laughter at that.

"From now on, your weapons will be immaculate.  Your carbine and pistol will save your life, and the lives of the men on your left and right.  Company...Attention!  First Sergeant."

Scott came forward and saluted.  "Your orders, sir?"

"March these men to the Quartermaster's tent.  Have each man issued twenty rounds each of carbine and pistol ammunition.  Then march them over to the range.  Deploy as skirmishers at the 200 yard line."

"Lieutenant, the Quartermaster may be holding spare ammunition in reserve."

"Scott," Fritz lowered his voice.  "Half their cartridges are contaminated.  They'll foul their breeches for sure.  They can fire out the ammo in their belts, and replace it with fresh stores.  I want to see how these men shoot."

"We may need that ammo for the fight, Sir."

"Carry out your orders, Sergeant."
   

     

       

[1stSgt Fritz King]

The men were formed as skirmishers at the 200 yard line.  Each trooper took a knee, five paces between men.  1stSgt Crisp ordered them to switch the ammo from their belts with the ammo in the boxes.  Much tugging and pulling ensued.

Fritz rode to the right of the line, closest to the berm.  He was well behind the lines, at about the 500 yard line.  In their current position, there was no danger.  He dismounted Buddy and pulled the Berdan from its scabbard.  He dropped into a good tight sitting position, and thumbed the hammer back.  Sighting in on a derelict cast iron stove, Fritz released the set trigger.  He took a deep breath, let it out half way, and squeezed.

POW!

The troopers heard an angry buzz pass close by, and heard the metallic thud of lead striking iron.  The sound was followed by another...and another.

Satisfied he'd made his point, Fritz picked up his brass and stood.  He could hear the mumbling as he mounted up, and they didn't subside until he rode in.  He dismounted and handed the reins over to Johann.  Pulling the Sharps, he walked to the line.

"This is a Berdan Sharps Rifle, converted to fire the .45 caliber Government cartridge.  It's effective out past 500 yards.  Probably more effective than I am."  Fritz opened the action and set the rifle down.

"You're carrying the Springfield Carbine.  It's a capable weapon, if you do your part.  If you remember your days at Jefferson Barracks, we fire in three positions; standing, kneeling, and prone.  If you have time, there's one more to learn...sitting."

"Fancy shootin' from a fancy rifle," someone whispered.

Fritz stopped.  He loved a challenge.  He pointed to a young man.  "Trooper, give me your carbine."  The boy handed it over.  Fritz immediately dropped into the sitting position, and pumped three rounds into the nearest target in quick succession.  He stood and handed the warm carbine back.

"That's just to show you that the first three shots were no accident.  Washington's decided to replace a repeater with an extremely potent single shot carbine.  This carbine is capable of taking a buffalo, a horse...or a man.  You have twenty rounds.  I want the first rank to take five, well-aimed shots.  I expect hits.  It's a simple equation.  If you miss, you die."

Fritz stepped behind the lines.

"You may commence firing."

The line erupted.

[Scarlet Angel]

Teddy eyed the note stuck on Lucky's stall.

"You're girl doesn't like the inside of this fort." He said walking towards Bo who was brushing his horse.

Bo chuckled at the comment. "She doesn't like the inside of any fort much Teddy."

Teddy chuckled at the response.

"Has she always preferred the company of the horse she rides to that of the people around her?"

"Depends on the person." Bo half grinned. "There are a select few that get equal time as her horse. Days like these when there is not much to do she disappears for hours at a time, she says it builds up her tolerance for when she does have to work all day and not have any time to herself."

"Angel has got to spread her wings." Teddy said with a smile.

"She says that horse can fly too. So I guess they both have to get out."

A large grin crossed Teddy's face. "You have tried to track her when she doesn't want to be found."

Bo laughed out loud. "Some of the best trackers are hard pressed to find her when she disappears on purpose. So I've started to believe that horse really does fly cuz he leaves no tracks for me to follow. Because I know her I could probably find her if I really thought about it. But she rides with the Marshal today so I am not worried."

"Where did their tracks disappear?" Teddy still had the smile on his face.

"At the river. I don't think the Marshal's horse has wings but he's good at covering his tracks too."

"Well lets see if we can pick up the trail. I don't mean follow 'em just see if we can find where it comes out on the other side." Black beard said walking up. "It will give us something to do for a short time and keep us out of trouble. Cyrus didn't like my idea of sneaking into the enemy camp and taking prisoners." He said followed by a sinister laugh.
   
Teddy eyed Scarlet's saddle and bridle. "Do you ride you're horse bareback?" He asked the other two men.

Black beard shook his head no.

"If I have to." Bo replied.
Teddy swung up on his horse with no saddle. "I do not see many who do. What would happen if you lost your saddle?"

Bo sighed, shouldered his rifle, climbed on the fence then onto his horse.

Black beard looked at the two men, mumbled something under his breath about damn Indians and followed Bo's lead.

Teddy laughed. "Look you might thank me some day."

Men turned and looked at the three scouts, rifles shouldered; riding horses with no saddles went by.

One of the soldiers stopped them. "The Indians we will be looking for, do they ride like you are now?" He asked Teddy.

"They will be riding what ever they can get their hands on. But like me they will be very good without a saddle. You might do well yourself to brush up on your horsemanship. Indian's are known for cutting cinches."

"And if you're horse spooks?"

"I can stick with my horse. Like anything else practice. That one there" He said pointing at Black beard "He needs a lot of practice. We will see about this one." He said indicating Bo with a look.

The soldier smiled. "I will take your advice under consideration."

The sound of the rifle fire spooked Black beards horse causing him to jump, Black beard nearly lost his seat but managed to hang on. "How would you feel about me asking Scarlet or Ella to teach me bare back." He grinned at Bo.

"Either would be a fine choice and you would do well." Bo replied.

Black beard thought he might get a look or something from Bo about the comment and was surprised he had not.

Teddy just laughed. "Come on let's go see if we are safer in front of or behind the soldiers."

The riders sat back far enough not to be distracting and watched the soldiers practice.

"Private Glass is good. Does he ride bare back too?" Black beard asked.

"The only thing I can not teach Billy is what it is like when the enemy if firing back at you. He will be a good soldier when he gets some experience under his belt. He handles himself well and knows the taste of fear. I have hunted him a few times, but I think he knew I really wouldn't kill him, and yes I taught him to ride bare back along time ago." Teddy looked mischievously at his friend "so you better practice on that horse, there is a soldier out there you know can out ride you now."

Black beard's look told Teddy he was not impressed with the information.

"Why is he a soldier when he spends all of his free time hanging around the scout's camp?" Bo asked.

"His father was a soldier."

Black beard was about to open his mouth when Teddy replied. "I am nor are my people responsible for the death of the boy's father. Bo's people can take the credit for that one. Billy was excited to be assigned to the same unit his father served with. Says his daddy spoke very high of them."

[Scarlet Angel]

Co effort of Tensleep and Scarlet

Tensleep considered Scarlet's question ""You ever wonder where you'd be or the people you love would be if your paths had never crossed?" then looked at her. "Sounds like you have... never really crossed my mind til you just said it." He sat down on the log where they had been before.

"Tell me what ya got on yer mind."

Scarlet ran her fingers through Lucky's forelock, then began to braid it.

"Something I think about from time to time. I always sort of wonder how people's lives might be different. I've been told I let my mind wander to much to places folk's minds aren't supposed ta go. 

Tensleep was rubbing his tobacco to ready it for his pipe as he listened. "Know what you mean I guess. Where would I be today if them rogue Rebs hadn't killed my ma? What would I be doin'?"

He began to pack his pipe. "I figger yer mind is supposed to work all tha time, harder to corral than wild horses."

Scarlet had started to braid Lucky's mane. She smiled at Tensleep's comment about yer mind supposed to work all tha time.

"Been told one there's no point asking yourself that question because you can't turn back time. " Scarlet paused for a moment then spoke again. "Bo's wife, Maria, rest her soul, used ta say you could only slightly change fate. If folks paths were meant to cross they would, it was just up to you what you did when you met that person. I always thought it would be interesting to know what would have happened if you'd chosen differently than you had. Grey Eagle says thinkin' like that's part of being a dreamer." Scarlet shrugged.   

"Nothin' wrong with bein' ah dreamer." Tensleep puffed his pipe. "Problem with dreams is that some folks let them rule their lives."

"What if I had seen you first thing that day I rode into El Paso instead of Becca? Reckon we would be havin' this talk?"

"If we hung around one another long enough, perhaps."

"Hell girl! I see ya more than most folks, you know what our problem is?"

Scarlet suppressed a grin. "I'm talking to much and yer suspicions that I am crazy are being confirmed?" She teased.

"No," Tensleep laughed. "We are too much alike. I had my demons one time." He looked up and watched a hawk circle. "I fought 'em for years, finally let 'em go. Yer still fightin' yer's."

"Yer not the first one to say it, problem is I killed them so I don't know how or why I can still be fightin' them. Cept they've made me who I am today so I guess every time I look in the mirror I can see 'em if I look hard enough."

"Scarlet they are ridin' with ya. I killed mine too an' they followed me ever'where I went. I had to fight the demons an' whoever else was out there in front of me. Best I can tell you is to find a way to forget what they did and look to the future. I ain't sayin' they won't visit now and again, but I don't let 'em ride on my shoulders no more."

"They were gone for awhile but they have come back." Scarlet said softly. "Guess I'm just tryin' to figure out how to lock 'em back up again."

"Ever think about askin' Grey Eagle to set up ah clensing ceremony for you? I know folks think Indians are backward, but I put lots of store in what they believe, I know Ella has learned a lot from them." Tensleep slid down to the ground, his back to the log. "Come sit down here. You know what they say. Never run when you can walk, never walk when you can sit, never sit when you can sleep." Tensleep winked at Scarlet.

Scarlet smiled sweetly at him. "Grey Eagle has been a great counselor to me over the years." She replied knowing he could not help her with the particular problems she was currently experiencing.

Scarlet took a handful of mane and swung back up on Lucky.

"I came out here to out run my demons; it is how I regain my strength. If I sit and sleep they will find me today I am afraid." 

"Wake me up when you come back by this way then." The marshal tilted his hat down and laid his head on the log.

"Fire off a couple of rounds if you need me otherwise I 'spect to see you here when I come back." She said turning Lucky towards the direction of where the wild horses had gone.

Scarlet looked over her shoulder and smiled "Sweet dreams John. We both deserve them."

[1stSgt Fritz King]

"Pitiful...Just pitiful."

Johann nodded.  "For some of these kids, the safest place to stand is right in front of them."

Fritz took the field glasses from his saddle.  The hits were all over the targets.  This wouldn't do.

"Cease fire!"  Fritz called.  "Safe your weapons."

Fritz signalled to Scott.  "Gents, we need to show them how this is done.  Scott, take the left of the line.  Johann, take the right.  I'll take the center."

The three men moved into position.  "The first position we'll teach you is standing.  At close range, it's the best option.  You may not have time to take cover."

Fritz pulled one round from his belt.  "With one round of ball ammunition, LOAD."

Scott and Johann loaded.  "Make ready!"  Three hammers drew back simultaneously.  Three rifles were shouldered.

"FIRE!"

Three shots sounded as one.  Three hits landed in the center of their targets.

"RELOAD!"

The rifles were readied again.  The drill was repeated twice more.  Three hits, mere inches apart, pierced each target.

"Now," Fritz called out.  That is what the rifle is capable of.  You must concentrate, and take your time.  If you rush, you miss.  And you can't afford to miss.  First rank, step forward."

Twenty men came on line.  Fritz commanded, "With one round of ball ammunition, LOAD!"

Scott and Johann echoed the commands.  Just as they would in battle.

"Make ready!"  Hammers drew back, sights settled on target.

"FIRE!"

This was going to be a very long day.     

[Scarlet Angel]

Scarlet rode with the heard as they moved lazily through the clearing then back into the tree line.  The foals ran and played under the watchful eyes of their mothers causing Scarlet to laugh. She'd heard once the outside of a horse was good for the inside of a man. She wasn't sure if it held true for everyone but it sure did for her.

The heard stopped where the river turned into a quiet pool. Scarlet slid from Lucky's back and sat on a log on the waters edge. She looked down at her reflection, Lucky standing behind her looking over her shoulder.

"I think Tensleep is right. I sent my demons to the underworld along time ago, no regrets." She said to the reflections looking back.

Scarlet closed her eyes, thought of those she'd sent and repeated the words she'd said over the bodies when she'd sent them, words she believed bound the souls where she'd sent them. She looked into the pool until she could see the face of the one who she hated the most then closed them. His head and heart had been separated, his soul cursed to wander blindly for eternity not able to pass to heaven or hell. She repeated the words that had been said over his body. Slowly Scarlet opened her eyes and watched the face disappear from the pool she looked into.

She'd always had the inner strength to be able to handle whatever had been sent her way. After all, what didn't kill you was supposed to make you stronger. The future was something to be looked forward to.

"What do you think?" she said looking at Lucky's reflection.

The stallion put his nose close to the water and sniffed at it. Suddenly his hoof came up and hit the water splashing both of them. The horse then reared, his hooves coming down in the water harder. Scarlet laughed and turned her body to keep her guns from getting wet as Lucky jumped, kicked and took four strides before stopping and looking at his wet playmate.

Scarlet spent the next couple of hours playing with Lucky and sorting out some of the questions she'd been asking herself lately. She wondered if Tensleep was really tired or if he knew she just needed to some space, either way she was grateful for his company and the space he'd given her.

Scarlet swung back onto Lucky, she had checked the trails between her and Tensleep on the way out, she would let him choose his own pace back.

Before she knew it she was looking down at her friend.

[1stSgt Fritz King]

Captain Bill always said "if you're not pissing someone off, you're not doing your job."  They'd spent the entire morning teaching the troopers how to shoot.  Fritz had loaned out almost every cartridge on his belt, but it was worth it.  The men had more confidence in their carbines.  This afternoon, they'd work on their pistols.  Now they were hot, sweaty and hungry.

As Scott marched the men in he halted the column.  "I was afraid of that."

The mess tent flaps were closed.  The noon meal was already over.

Fritz said, "let me see if I can change their minds."  He untied the ties and stepped inside.

"Can't you read sign?" an angry voice hollered.  "The flaps are tied for a reason."  The man had his back to fritz, scrubbing a pot.

"My men were at the range.  They were training for war.  They need to eat."

"Well you shoulda thought of that 'fore to took 'em to the range."

Fritz grabbed him by the shoulder and spun him about.  The cooks right fist came up fast.  Fritz blocked it with his left and stared hard at the man.  "Someone so grubby shouldn't bee cooking food," he thought.

The man shrunk away.  "Oh...sorry sir.  Didn't realize you was an officer."

"That's because you didn't look," Fritz said.  "Now, I need to feed my men."

"Sir, chow hour is from eleven to noon sir...post orders."

"Sergeant, I'm not looking for a three course meal on white linen.  Give them some bacon on a biscuit, and coffee to wash it down, and they'll be fine."

"Okay...but don't tell the boss.  Bring your men in."     

[Elegant Ella]

Ella was about to walk into the mess tent to start some bread with the starter that had been expanding all morning when she heard a familiar voice.  There really wasn't really any reason for her to avoid Fritz, but she preferred not to face his questions.  She figured she could mix up the bread after the dishes were done from that troop's meal as she retreated to the scout's camp. 

Scarlet and Tensleep had come back while Ella was working on hides with Teddy and getting more language lessons from him and other scouts who were making elk jerky.  Her friends seemed ... maybe comfortable was the right word.  Scarlet was calmer and more centered than she had been in weeks. 

[Scarlet Angel]

Black beard had been waiting for Scarlet to return since Ella had asked Teddy to work on hides.

"Bo says you ride well with out a saddle." He said leading his horse her way.

Scarlet smiled "I had to learn to ride with out a saddle before my parents gave me one."

"I didn't find it all that comfortable or easy, can you teach me?"

Scarlet looked him over "From the looks of your clothes I think you might have slipped a few times."

The man slightly blushed. "How good are you?"

Scarlet grinned "I can shoot off the back of him at a full run. I can balance in the saddle when it's not cinched. I spend a lot of time up here and am very at home."

Scarlet noticed a couple of the other scouts leading their horses towards her with hopeful looks on their faces. "I am flattered you've asked."

Scarlet lead the group to a place where the dirt looked rather soft and asked to see them ride.

Black beard was not doing bad as he'd had some instruction earlier. The man called Jeremy looked to be curled in the fetal position hanging onto his horse's neck and Al nearly slipped off every time his horse took a step.

"Show us." Jeremy said.

Scarlet circled them at a slow lope explaining the best way to sit, how to balance the men all broke into grins when she said something about using your thighs when riding. She then sent the other two scouts for their saddles and continued to work with Black beard since he seemed a little more advanced than the other two.

[1stSgt Fritz King]

Fritz fired up a cigar as he waited.  He knew they were young and untried, but they had grit nonetheless.  The boys were happy with what they got.  "It's a soldiers life," he thought.

"Hey, Lieutenant...come ere!"

Fritz looked over.  "What's up cookie?'

"Got some nice preserves for ya...maybe some molasses or honey for your coffee?"

"No thanks.  I'll have what my men are having."

"But you're hungry too...come on."

"I'd like too, but I'll wait 'til my men are done."

"Okay...up to you."

The men noticed.  They approved.

Bill had taught him well.

[1stSgt Fritz King]

Back to work. 

The men were happy, because they weren't marching to the range with their carbines.  The orderly was tasked with guarding the stacked arms.  They sung "The Battle Cry of Freedom" on their way back.  It brought Fritz back to a younger time.  He idly wondered if half these kids were even alive in 1861. 

They'd halted in column, and Scott called "Right...FACE!"

The men faced smartly towards the seven yard line.  Fritz walked in front of the line, his back facing the target.  Johann yelled out "FIRE!!!"

Fritz spun about, drawing the short-barreled Colt in one smooth motion.  Scarlet would've been proud.  The gun cleared leather instantly.  Fritz fanned five quick shots into the nearest target, ad spun the empty gun back into it's holster.  A few of the men held their breath.

"Now...that's how Wild Bill would've done it.  I don't want YOU to do it that way."

A few laughed.  Most remained silent.

Fritz bladed his body towards the target.  He drew the long-barreled Colt from the cross draw rig.  He thumbed the the hammer, firing single shots into the target.  The hits were practically touching at that range.  He reholstered his piece.

"That is how I want to see YOU do it.  Take your time.  Use the sights.  Aim carefully...and take your man down.  'Cause he'd do the same for you."

Fritz stepped behind the line and gave the command "Draw...PISTOLS!!!"

The long day wasn't over yet.



     

[Scarlet Angel]

Cyrus sat cross legged in front of his tent working his pistol, making sure everything was in working order.

"You ever going to stand and salute when you're approached by an officer?" Captain Schurmann said.

Cyrus looked up "Ain't saluted nobody in twenty one years ain't startin' now." he replied with half a grin and stood. "In mixed company I will do you the courtesy of addressing you properly instead of just Capt'n Bill."

"Some people never change Cyrus Kane."

Cyrus chuckled at the comment then asked. "What brings you out to my little part of the world?"

Bill chuckled "What usually brings me around?"

"Usually you send someone to fetch me to your tent. So something brings you over here." Cyrus said ducking inside his tent and returning with the list of people who were riding with him. "Here ya go. I'm guessing that's what you come for."

The Captain looked it over recognizing many of the names of the people Cyrus rode regularly with.

"I heard you've had some trouble with a few of the scouts getting along." He said reading down the list.

Cyurs chuckled again. "I'm sure you know all about the people I got riding with me and what happens."

"Not everything, but enough to peak my interest."

"You come over here just to poke around or am I going to be able to tell my people who we are riding with?" Cyrus asked.

"You remember Fritz King and Scott Crisp?" Bill asked looing past Cyrus to where the hide tanning lessons were going on.

"I remember them both, good men, saw them at the range earlier. They have their work cut out for them."

"Your people getting along now, I heard there was an incident."

"You know there are a couple of women riding with me. That's Ella there" he pointed at her "she's a healer, damn good one from what I understand. Very nice lady. The one you're inquiring about, well all I can say." He paused and grinned "Man that rides with her told me she was heaven and hell all rolled into one. I'm inclined to believe Bo 'bout that. One of the men found himself on the hell side and found out she knows how ta use that knife she carries." Cyrus said as he started to walk, coming to a stop where they could see Scarlet and the others.  "The gal on the black." He said pointing again. "Both women have earned the respect of the men and I believe Corbin and Chris have worked out their differences. I think if it had come down to it the men would have told Chris to find a new group to ride with."

"You don't worry about a couple of women riding with the men?" Bill asked watching Scarlet move with her horse.

"See that big knife on the back of her belt?" Cyrus said pointing it out.

Bill shook his head yes.

"She has no problem sinking that into a man." Cyrus continued "She's got more experience in the field than a lot of these soldiers. I didn't asked about confirmed kills, suspect she's got her fair share, and if that's not enough I heard Bo tell someone he would reach down the mans throat and tear his spine from his body if they bothered the girls. She and Ella ride regular with Bo and John Ross. Just from watching I think Ross is just as protective as Bo of the ladies."

"Black beard has been with you a long time; he doesn't take to people easily." Bill said observing the riding lesson "Looks like he would stand with her though."

"You've always known people I ride with stand tight together."

"Yes. It makes up for their unique personalities." Bill said.

They began walking again. As they passed by Scarlet Cyrus and the others Cyrus called out. "Why don't you ladies join us."

"Yes ma'am." Al retorted.

Cyrus was curious what the reaction of the soldiers would be when they found out there would be a woman riding among them.

The riders stopped behind Cyrus when they approached the range and waited for the Captain to speak to the Lieutenant, who was giving one of the men instructions.