Thread Tools

Silver Storm
Carry On My Wayward Son
Penpal
3059.17
Silver Storm is offline
 
#26
Old 05-10-2012, 12:27 AM

Jessica was headed for the bar turned cafe when she heard someone calling her name. She turned and saw the lanky, bumbling form of the telegraph operator running toward her. "Slow down and take a breath," Jessica ordered, putting up her hands to stop the guy before he knocked them both flat. She waited until he had calmed down before speaking again. "What's got you in such a rush this morning?" The telegraph operator took a deep breath and launched into his explanation. "Willow Wood just sent a telegram. They have a situation and could use some backup. Didn't say what the situation was."

Jessica nodded. "Thanks Horace," she said over her shoulder as she jogged towards the Sheriff's Office. Time to grab Chase and ride for Willow Wood which was about two hours ride from Thunder Springs. She flung open the door and yelled to Chase. "Grab your gear and meet me at the stables. We are needed in Willow Wood."

maidenroseheart
Can I please come down? ~Simple ...
6687.45
maidenroseheart is offline
 
#27
Old 05-10-2012, 05:26 AM

Mindy finished the section she had wanted to check before lunch and headed back to the ranch. The prickly feeling on the back of her neck didn't go away until she was in the barn. Unsaddling and grooming Shakespeare, she turned him into the paddock for his lunch. Then she walked over into the house for hers. Getting the cook, she sat down and told the foreman and two hands about what she had found. A cut fence was no laughing matter.

The foreman, Jake, suggested, "Let's not having any of us riding alone for awhile. See if we can figure out exactly why the fence was cut. Also, let's check back in here every two hours. I know that this is inconvenient and we won't get as much done, but I see little other choice." The other two nodded and dug into lunch. Her cook went to get a white board. Best keep track of who went where as well as when they checked in.

Silver Storm
Carry On My Wayward Son
Penpal
3059.17
Silver Storm is offline
 
#28
Old 05-10-2012, 10:38 PM

Jessica grabbed her saddlebags and jogged toward the stables, leaving Chase to get his gear together and join her. Monty saw her running from one of the paddocks and he came to meet her, concern on his handsome face. "Got a situation in Willow Wood, Jessica explained as she rushed into the barn with Monty at her side. "Chase and I are needed there ASAP." Monty ran to get a horse tacked up for Chase and Jessica grabbed Bellisario's tack, hurrying to the stallion's stall.

Bellisario was already dance from the urgency that he sensed rolling off his mistress. He snorted and struck out at the stall door with a front hoof. He gave a playful buck when Jessica went to set the saddle and saddle blanket on his back, tossing his head as she soothed him. He knew that they would be in for a fast, hard ride.

maidenroseheart
Can I please come down? ~Simple ...
6687.45
maidenroseheart is offline
 
#29
Old 05-11-2012, 09:28 AM

Mindy and Jake headed out together to rope in the yearlings. Finding a few good promising colts for sell would take special work and only the best of the yearlings would have such time invested in them. They cantered out. The first problem would be to located them. They spend a good deal of the afternoon searching and finally found them near the canyon. Mindy grimaced. As beautiful as this place was, she didn't find it to be her favorite location. They watched the horses out in the distance and pointed out some possible candidates. Finally, they turned and headed back. Wouldn't do to be late checking in.

Silver Storm
Carry On My Wayward Son
Penpal
3059.17
Silver Storm is offline
 
#30
Old 05-12-2012, 10:02 PM

Jessica was just leading the saddled horses out of the barn when Chase came jogging up. "Got some grub for the road," he said, motioning to his bulging saddle bags. Jessica nodded and handed Chase the reins of a bay gelding. She turned and vaulted nimbly onto Bellisario's back not even bothering to use the stirrups. She turned the stallion and urged him out of town towards Willow Wood, Chase following behind.

They spent the ride alternating between a trot and a walk, trying to cover as much ground as possible without running the horses into the ground. Finally they reached Willow Wood and halted their horses in front of the Sheriff's office. Jessica looked around cautiously, wondering what the problem could be. She looped Bellisario's reins loosely over the hitching post, knowing that if she whistled for him, the stallion would untie himself and come at a run.

maidenroseheart
Can I please come down? ~Simple ...
6687.45
maidenroseheart is offline
 
#31
Old 05-14-2012, 06:41 AM

Riding into the yard, they were met by the other two stable hands. Roger came up swiping off his hat, "Had us a mite worried. Your late by about 20 minutes. Run into any trouble?" Pete stood slightly behind him watching quietly. Mindy shook her head no while Jake explained, "Not at all. Saw the horses and picked out candidates for the roundup. Sorry bout being late. Will avoid it if we can." They headed in to tally their observations on the board.

The cook was baking up a storm. The kitchen was covered in flour. Mindy raised an eyebrow and with a laugh asked, "Mary darling, your gonna cook us out of house and land. What in tarnation got in your bonnet this morning?" The cook looked up and hughed, "A cut fence and my little girl running off out there like an open target during huntin season, thats what. Now you all sit and git some cider in you." She pulled mugs out and starting pouring rounds.

Silver Storm
Carry On My Wayward Son
Penpal
3059.17
Silver Storm is offline
 
#32
Old 05-14-2012, 04:39 PM

Jessica and Chase stepped up onto the boardwalk and walked into the Willow Wood Sheriff's office. The sheriff, Neil "Mac" McGinty, rose to meet them. He was a big, burly Scotsman and like a father and close friend to Jessica. "What's up Mac?" Jessica asked nonchalantly, though inside concern skittered across her nerves. "Got a prisoner ta escort ta the station in Belton. Townsfolk donna much like him, everytime we try ta move 'im they try ta get 'im away and lynch 'im."

"What did he do?" Jessica asked in surprise. It must have been bad for the people to stand up and cause trouble for the big Scot.

"He beat and tried ta raped the mayor's daughter," Mac answered with disgust in his voice. Well it was no wonder that the people were up in arms. The mayor's daughter was one of the sweetest and most beautiful woman in the town; everyone loved her. "Well let's get this jerk out of here before he gets what he deserves." Jessica and Chase both chimed in.

maidenroseheart
Can I please come down? ~Simple ...
6687.45
maidenroseheart is offline
 
#33
Old 05-15-2012, 09:21 AM

They sat around the living room drinking warm apple cider and talking about the fence. It very well could have been a prank for all they knew. Jake looked cautiously over at Mary before suggesting, "How about we all just go on down to the creek and bit by bit check over that area. That is where the fence was cut. If there is anything suspicious going on, then it would be there. If we find nothing, then we can get back to living like normal. If I remember right, Mindy is going camping with a pile of young ones this weekend and I rather not have this worry itching my neck." Mindy cringed at that. Not for what he said, but for Mary's reaction.

With a huff, she turned on Jake, "Now you listen here, sir. I think if your gonna go ridin into harms way that you should get some people in town to come with you. And the sheriff too. That is what she is here for after all. No need to have everyone risking their necks for nothing." Mindy made calming motions with her hand.

With Mary, settled back in a chair though she was clearly not calm, Mindy suggested, "It is just a cut fence. Not a butchered animal. Let's ride on out there. Mary, if we aren't back by dark, then you can go on into town and raise up the sheriff to come rescue us. It isn't a big deal. Men, you ready?"

They leapt up with much protest by the cook. The foreman led the way with Roger and Pete trailing. Mindy gave Mary a quick peck on the cheek and ran out the door before Mary could lay another lecture on their laps.

Silver Storm
Carry On My Wayward Son
Penpal
3059.17
Silver Storm is offline
 
#34
Old 05-15-2012, 10:42 PM

Mac brought the handcuffed prisoner out of his cell and into the office. Chase glanced out the window and noticed that people were beginning to gather out front and they didn't look to happy. Uh guys, we got trouble, he called to the others. Jessica and Mac moved to look out the window too.

Can you guys get him to the horses and on by yourselves? Jessica asked, looking at the other two. Aye lass, but what are ye going ta do?

Jessica grin mischievously. I am going to ride interference and give these guys a show. She cracked her knuckles and stretched her neck from side to side. You guys ready to do this? The guys nodded and grabbed the prisoner. Jessica opened the door wide enough to slip through and closed it behind her. What can I do for you guys? She asked casually as she moved towards the street. We want the prisoner, a man in the front spoke up.

You know we can't do that, Jessica answered walking casually to the edge of the boardwalk. Go back to your homes and your jobs, we will make sure that this guy gets what he deserves, Jessica said stepping out in the street, drawing their attention away from the sheriff''s office. Chase slipped out and untied the horses, bringing them as close as possible. Mac stepped out, pushing the gagged prisoner before him.

When you people chose to appoint a sheriff, you chose someone that you respected to make sure that justice was served. It is our job, not yours; now please let us do our jobs. Jessica continued to talk, trying to keep their attention from straying to were Mac and Chase were loading the criminal onto his horse. The criminal made a muffled noise just between Jessica's words, catching the peoples attention.

Jessica let out a shrill low-high-low whistle and then yelled Get him out of here. At her whistle Bellisario jumped into action, pulling his reins loose from the hitching post. The stallion reared and whirled, gallop towards the people and scattering them, before curving around to come to his mistress. Jessica vaulted onto his back, ignoring the stirrups and pulled her bullwhip free from where it was tied to her saddle.

maidenroseheart
Can I please come down? ~Simple ...
6687.45
maidenroseheart is offline
 
#35
Old 05-16-2012, 04:44 AM

Jake headed out and saddled up his gelding. Tightening the girth and chest strap, he patted the gelding's neck. "Well 'Ol Boy, looks like we get to have a more diverse day than normal. Ready for another ride?" Walking past the two, Roger laughed at him. Jake glared at the ranch hand and offered, "And you named your mare something better? Who calls their horse Titania anyways?"

Mindy shook her head and walked up to Shakespeare, "Someone who appreciates my required reading of the classics and history. Besides, Shakespeare's plays has many good names that you might consider. Titania is a wonderful name." Roger grinned in thankfulness and placed a shotgun up in the saddle holster.

Pete rode up on Samson and handed Mindy her revolvers and belt. She took them and slipped them on. Mary had followed them out and frowned at seeing those. Mindy was glad Mary didn't know what else she had on her. She also had throwing knives up her sleeves that she kept a secret from everyone. Everyone but the priest at the mission, who had taught her. He had not always been a man of God. She practiced there under his guidance.

((I had written a lot longer and more interactive post but took too long and it got deleted on me))

Silver Storm
Carry On My Wayward Son
Penpal
3059.17
Silver Storm is offline
 
#36
Old 05-17-2012, 04:01 PM

Stay where you guys are and no one gets hurt, Jessica ordered as Chase and Mac got the prisoner into his saddle. They both turned and mounted their horses, Mac grabbing the lead rope trailing from the prisoner's horse. Mac urged his horse into a lope and headed for the edge of town. Chase hesitated, looking back at Jessica and the angry mob. Chase, just go. I'll be fine. Chase spun his horse around and galloped after Mac.

One brave young buck decided to try and go after them. Jessica cracked her bullwhip at him, the end flicking millimeters from his nose. The guy jumped backwards so fast he tripped over his own feet and fell on his butt. You guys stay where you are, better yet go home. The crowd were staring at the guy on the ground, some snickering at him. Jessica turned Bellisario and put him into a lope after the retreating figures. She heard the sound of running footsteps and turn to see people starting to follow. She spun the stallion around again. Bellisario reared at her command as she cracked out the whip towards the pursuers. They all skidded to a stop, remembering what had happened to the other guy.

maidenroseheart
Can I please come down? ~Simple ...
6687.45
maidenroseheart is offline
 
#37
Old 05-19-2012, 01:10 PM

Jake took point and reined 'Ol Boy around. Heading out at a trot, he was followed by Mindy and Roger. Pete took rear and they headed out towards the pasture. The late afternoon sun was not too hot with the cool breeze that was blowing that day. Trotting only increased its pleasantness. Reaching the pasture, they jumped the fence instead of bothering with the gate. Took too much time and energy.

They continued on around and down towards the creek, each with eyes looking carefully for any sign that would hint to the reason the cut fence. Reaching the creek, Jake dismounted and walked over with 'Ol Boy following. Kneeling by the fence, he looked over the wiring and the ground carefully. The few imprints he could find were rather small for a grown man. He sighed and stood, eyes roaming around. It wasn't grown men, but it could be anyone else. He rather wish there was a sign left behind declaring who did it and why. Life wasn't like that though.

Silver Storm
Carry On My Wayward Son
Penpal
3059.17
Silver Storm is offline
 
#38
Old 05-19-2012, 08:46 PM

Jessica galloped Bellisario right at the people, scattering them and thus dispersing the mob. For the last time, GO HOME! Let us do our jobs. Finally the people turned and began returning to their jobs or homes. Jessica watched until she was satisfied that they were going to leave the prisoner alone, then she whirled the stallion around. She urged him into a gallop and rode after Mac and Chase. She cut cross country to cut off some time and finally caught up with the three riders.

maidenroseheart
Can I please come down? ~Simple ...
6687.45
maidenroseheart is offline
 
#39
Old 05-20-2012, 02:59 AM

Mindy splashed through the creek to the other side and moved Shakespeare so she could look at the ground. Walking along the creek, she soon came to where tracks left the creek. Jake saw her expression and posture shift slightly. As attuned to her as he was, he knew she had found something and jumped up on 'Ol Boy to ride over. He leaned down and saw it was the same tracks by the fence. "I'm finding it strange that they are human footprints and not horse hooves. Something isn't right here."

Roger and Pete rode over. Roger asked, "We might need to head back soon or Jake is going to be late for his date." Jake gave them an irritated glare. "It isn't a date. The librarian's wants me to come tutor her daughter." Mindy raised an eyebrow at Jake. His father had worked for her father, so they had grown up somewhat close. He hadn't mentioned this to her and she was slightly curious if not jealous.

((Figured out my plotline. Who the killer had been and who the will be attempted killer will be. So excited.))

Silver Storm
Carry On My Wayward Son
Penpal
3059.17
Silver Storm is offline
 
#40
Old 05-20-2012, 03:19 AM

Jessica, Mac and Chase finally reached the larger town of Belton. They trotted through town, pulling to a stop in front of the train station. Mac and Chase dismounted and went to help the prisoner, while Jessica jumped off and gathered up the reins of all the horses. "I got the horses, why don't you guys go find the marshals that are taking him on." Mac nodded and pushed the prisoner towards the station, Chase following along.

maidenroseheart
Can I please come down? ~Simple ...
6687.45
maidenroseheart is offline
 
#41
Old 05-20-2012, 11:21 AM

Mindy pointed out to Jake, "She is the librarian. Why would she need someone else to tutor her daughter? You were a top student in school, but your work out in the country and they live in town." He shrugged and said, "I'm sure it could be put off until next weekend, but I did give my word. Roger, ride with me back to the ranch. Pete, stay with the missus. Mindy, when your done checking the creek. Come back to the ranch. Leave the lower pasture for tomorrow." She started to argue but he was already taking off and riding away. Roger looked at her apologetically and followed.

Pete reined Samson up to her and suggested, "The tracks go off into the middle of the meadow. I doubt we are going to be able to track them any further. Let's wait for Jake tomorrow. He is the best tracker in the country. He will figure out where they lead." Mindy glared at him, before sighing and letting her shoulders droop a bit. Admittedly, she wasn't a tracker. Jake was her best option. "Alright. Let's head back. I'm going to run to town and volunteer in the mission. You can handle Mary alone. She won't be in a pretty mood with all this mystery going on. She never did quite get over the scare when my father was killed." Pete pointed out, "He was a good man. He didn't have enemies. She has a right to be worried."

Silver Storm
Carry On My Wayward Son
Penpal
3059.17
Silver Storm is offline
 
#42
Old 05-21-2012, 07:52 PM

Chase and Mac finally returned with out the prisoner and the three mounted up and turned back for home. Bellisario was still tossing his head and prancing, high on adrenaline. They rode in tired silence to Willow Wood, halting their horses in front of the Sheriff's office and dismounting. Do ye want ta get a bite before you head home?" Mac asked as they tied up their horses. Jessica wanted to accept but she knew that she needed to get back to Thunder Springs. How about a raincheck Mac, she suggested, stretching stiff muscles. Mac agreed and she and Chase mounted up for the ride home.

maidenroseheart
Can I please come down? ~Simple ...
6687.45
maidenroseheart is offline
 
#43
Old 05-22-2012, 04:06 AM

Mindy walked Shakespeare slowly through Thunder Springs. As she passed the library, she saw Jake's horse "Ol Boy tied up outside. Inside, she saw the librarian watching her through the windows. Maybe she wouldn't mind her stepping in for a bit to get a book before supper? Naw, it was getting late and the lady had never seemed to care for ranchers. At least she hadn't been too keen about Mindy before, though not rude either. Mindy kept going until she reached the mission. Hoping off, she walked inside and into the church. A word of prayer never hurt anyone and at the moment, she felt she could use some heavenly guidance. That darn cut fence was messing up her schedule and she hated having her schedule messed with.

Silver Storm
Carry On My Wayward Son
Penpal
3059.17
Silver Storm is offline
 
#44
Old 05-22-2012, 07:27 PM

They got back to town and Jessica took over the horses in front of the sheriff's office. The excitement of the day finally caught up with her and exhaustion washed over her as she led the horses to the stables. Monty stood waiting, leaning against the doorjamb. You look exhausted, he said gently, taking the reins for Chase's horse.

Its been a long day. Townsfolk who want to lynch the criminal themselves. Bellisario nuzzled his mistress' cheek as if trying to make it better. Jessica reached up to rub under his forelock. They beg for a sheriff and then want to dole out justice themselves. She shook her head tiredly and led the stallion into the stables. She clipped him to cross ties and untacked him, before leading him back outside and tying him up to a post. She started washing the dried sweat from his coat.

maidenroseheart
Can I please come down? ~Simple ...
6687.45
maidenroseheart is offline
 
#45
Old 05-23-2012, 09:28 AM

Walking into the sanctuary, she began straightening hymnals as she made her way upfront. Finally she reached the first pew and sat down in it. The priest came out and saw her sitting there worn and a bit frustrated. Quietly walking over, he asked, "Would a listening ear be welcome?" She looked up gave a wimpish smiled, "My life isn't going as planned at the moment. This morning we found a cut fence in once of the pastures. Went back out there this afternoon to check it out after getting the horse herd located. Jake found small footprints but no horse tracks. Then he went and left early to tutor the librarian's daughter. It just irks me is all."

He frowned at the mention of the cut fence and it only deepened at the small tracks. However once she moved on to Jake going into town, his face became carefully blank. He wouldn't take sides when it came to matters of the heart. She knew that. Yet she wished just once that he would be angry with her. Jake worked for her, the tutoring idea being a side job. He laid a hand on her shoulder, "How about you come with me to the cafe. I'm buying."

Silver Storm
Carry On My Wayward Son
Penpal
3059.17
Silver Storm is offline
 
#46
Old 05-23-2012, 06:40 PM

Monty watched Jessica tired finish washing Bellisario. He could see that she was dead tired and could really use a break. Why don't you go home, call it a night?" Jessica shook her head and led the stallion back into his stall. I'll be fine, she said stubbornly.

Monty shook his head. No you wont, you are almost dead on your feet. When he saw that his argument wasn't doing any good, he added, Why don't you at least go over to the cafe and get some food and coffee. Jessica started to argue but then realized she hadn't eaten anything since breakfast this morning. I guess Chase can handle things for a bit.

maidenroseheart
Can I please come down? ~Simple ...
6687.45
maidenroseheart is offline
 
#47
Old 05-24-2012, 03:32 AM

Mindy nodded, "If you insist Father." She let him lead her outside. He took the reins of Shakespeare and led the horse too. Reaching the cafe, he draped the reins over the hitching post and showed her inside. He motioned the cafe host and suggested, "Corn chowder would be much appreciated." At the host's nod, he then turned and took Mindy to a table. She sat down forlornly and sighed. What had gotten into her for her to feel down. He looked at her with sharp eyes and then began to hum softly. She slowly relaxed to the sound of his voice.

Silver Storm
Carry On My Wayward Son
Penpal
3059.17
Silver Storm is offline
 
#48
Old 05-24-2012, 02:45 PM

Jessica made her way tiredly into the cafe and sat down at a table. She didn't order yet, honestly it was good to just sit for a bit. She hadn't realized how tiring today had been until now, guess that was the after affects of an adrenaline high. Her mind drifted back over the day, and again she found herself mulling over the question of why people begged for a sheriff and then tried to take matters into their own hands.

maidenroseheart
Can I please come down? ~Simple ...
6687.45
maidenroseheart is offline
 
#49
Old 05-24-2012, 11:19 PM

The man brought over soup for both of them and she began to eat. As she ate, she felt energy returning to her. Feeling a little more like herself, she looked up into the priest's face and noted his knowing eyes. "How did you know?" He grinned and said in a joking manner, "All children can be eased with food, including the grown up kind. Now how about you tell me more about that fence." She groaned, "Not much to add. I was checking the fences in some of the pastures and in the middle of a pasture out in the middle of no where I came across a cut fence. It is in the creek. There is no sign of anyone getting there or going away. All the evidence is in one located area."

Silver Storm
Carry On My Wayward Son
Penpal
3059.17
Silver Storm is offline
 
#50
Old 05-25-2012, 02:48 AM

The cafe owner walked over to Jessica's table. "What can I get you sheriff?" he asked. You really look like you could use it." Jessica smiled up into his kind face and asked, "What would you suggest?" The man thought for a moment, his index finger to his lips. "Corn chowder and coffee coming right up."

Jessica leaned back in her chair, trying to relax but not fall asleep. She watched the owner make his way back across the cafe. She gazed at those around the place, seeing Mindy with the priest. She could tell the girl was worried about something, but she figured that Mindy would come to her when she was ready or needed help.

 


Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)
 
Thread Tools

 
Forum Jump

no new posts