A Tale of The West: Prologue June 13th, 1862 Now? asked Ross.

No, not yet, just wait replied Slade. Cmon John, you know me, I just wanna get down there and start shootin replied Ross. I know Ross, I know said Slade. Well that train better get here pretty damn fast, Im getting restless, not to mention Ridley said Ross. Dont worry bout Bob, hell be fine and the train should arrive soon, as a matter of fact, its running late answered Slade . Ross then turned his horse around and rode around the area a little. I shook my head and stared a little bit longer at the railroad tracks from the hill where I was waiting and then turned my horse around, looking at my elite crew of lawmen. These men were the Galajaro law force and as the sheriff, I had no say it who gets on my team, it was all up to my employer, Mayor Byron. What a group of misfits I thought to myself. I turned back to Ross who was shuffling around on his mount. Martin Ross, God knows why Byron wants him to be my deputy, no patience, no brains, just wants to fight, but I guess thats what kind of mission this is I thought to myself. I then shifted my view to my second deputy, Robert Bob Ridley. Well, hes not much better, but at least he has some sort of sense, even more bloodthirsty then Ross though, but once again, this mission calls for men like these I thought. Then there was also Jasper Allgood, Steve Raymond and Dalton Covel. I cant trust any of these idiots, theyre all bigger and dumber then the next I thought and so I turned back to wait for the train. I made it a point that if a job was important enough, I did it myself, I hardly let these morons do anything. Its coming, I can see it, around the bend! shouted my sentry, Covel, who I had posted down below. I had decided to make my sentry the man that annoyed me the most, which was the stupidest one. Well boys, our time is now, remember, Byronll be quite upset if you botch this one I warned Ross, Ridley, Allgood and Raymond. Robert, you best be on your way I told him and he tipped his hat to me and rode off in the opposite direction. Yaw! I shouted and I ran my horse down the hill to meet the oncoming train. Dalton and Jasper go to the other side with Steve, Martin, youre coming with me on this side, and follow my example, just dont try to do anything by yourself I warned them. Just wait, they wont even listen and Byronll give me shit again, but not them, of course no, its not their fault I bitterly thought, remembering the last failed plot. Dalton, you know the plan! I bellowed over the roaring of the train, now very close to us. I had told Covel to get them on the train and kill everyone; I would take care of the rest of it since hes too stupid to do anything else. The train then rushed by us but we were already at top speed and I was right next to the dining car. Through the window I could see an extremely overweight man with a large plate of potatoes, corn and a very thick steak. Look at this fat bastard, how can he do that to himself, just eat himself to that state, hes so engrossed with his food he doesnt even notice me riding up beside him, maybe I should just kill him, lets see if he notices that I thought and I drew my Colt Dragoon which I managed to get my hands on by killing a saloon patron back in Oreison. He didnt have any reason to die, I just wanted his pistol and Im glad I did it, its great and they dont produce them anymore so itll be increasingly hard to find. Right, I forgot, Im gonna kill that fat bastard I thought and I drew the hammer back and took aim. Hey! yelled someone from behind me, Im not sure who, possibly Ross, that would make sense, seeing as how hes the only one on this sidewhat do you want me to do? I turned my attention off of the fat man; Ill

just kill him later I concluded. Keep following me! I yelled to Ross. I reached the locomotive soon enough. Martin, hop this cart and kill them all I told him. I didnt watch to see if Ross got onto the cart and I didnt really care, just as long as he made it on I was fine. I figured I might as well too so I jumped onto the car too. Go in there, kill them all and keep going until you meet the others I said above the roaring of the engine. Hell mess it up I thought. I faced the locomotive and I heard the door open behind and some yells and then some gunshots. Or maybe he wont I thought to myself. I pulled the door open and stepped in, taking my hat off as its rude to wear hats indoors. I laughed out loud when I saw the engineer. He was wearing blue and white striped overalls and one of those little hats they all wear. It wasnt that it was funny but just so stereotyped and for a conductor to actually wear that cracked me up so I just shot him in the face and then pulled the brake down and was thrown onto the other switches but I was fine. I waited until the train to stop completely, its dangerous to stand in a moving train dont you know. I then left the locomotive and entered the car in which Ross had just a while ago ventured into. Everyone was dead but just to make sure I shot them all again, I loved my gun. I kept going, reshooting all the passengers and I reached the fat man from the dining cart. He had two bullet holes right through his obese gut and was lying against the window. I guess I didnt get to kill him I thought but just for fun I shot him again through the eye to test my aim, then his other eye and eventually there wasnt much left but a bloody stump of a neck and a lot of empty shell casings. I continued and eventually I got to the rest of my crew who were standing there in the very last car, around someone. Who do we have here gentlemen? I asked inquisitively. Ross and Ridley cleared the way and I got a good look. Oh, its Dalton I said in fake sympathy. Yes sir, one of the passengers had a gun so he shot him said Raymond. Is he still alive? I asked. Hardly said Raymond. I knelt down by Covel and looked into his eyes. What would you like me to do? I asked. You know what spoke Covel, choking on the blood pouring from his mouth. I drew my pistol. Everyone look away I said. They all turned and I stared right into his eyes and pulled the trigger, I wanted to see him die. He was a good man and its a shame to lose him I lied, holstering my pistol. I disliked Covel almost as much as Raymond but I felt it important for everyone else to think that I was a good guy. So whos got the case? I asked after what I felt was an appropriate amount of time. The same guy who shot Covel said Ross and he pointed towards a thin, scared looking man clutching a large black case very tightly. Whys this goddamn thing so important to him, he probably doesnt even know what its for I concluded as I wrenched it from his not yet stiff fingers. Well boys, I expect Robert will be arriving at his designated destination soon and as for us, we can return to Galajaro I told them. A job well done I said. Are you going to come with us Mr Slade? asked Ross. Not yet, I want to ride around a little bit but I will be back soon enough I said and I handed Ross the stolen case. That was a lie, I didnt want to ride around, I just didnt want to go back with those morons. They all left on their horses and I decided that I would empty the pockets of everyone in the train before setting off, so I did. Chapter 1: Disappearance June 13th There were 6 of us. We all had our special talents and were all invaluable to the team. Firstly there was me, Jack Ballard. I was a crack shot and used dual revolvers; one a Walker Colt, which I used for power and the other, was a Colt Army Model 1860 which I used more often. My job was the gunslinger. What that meant was that I usually try to keep the bounty busy while

the team surrounded him and I was also the unofficial leader, but that was often disputed with another one of the team, Tom Carter. Carter had almost the opposite role of me. He was the sharpshooter. He stood back or on the hills, picking them off like flies and he was as valuable as me, but thats also why I considered myself the leader, how can someone whos hardly even near the group during gunfights be helpful? He is in no real danger and has a relatively simple job, but I digress. There was also Ken Emreys, he didnt really have too much of a role, he was more of a morale boost. He was funny and always in high spirits and took care of our horses. He could hold his own in a gunfight, not as good as me of course, and was probably the weakest gunner we had so his job was the flanker. There was Bill Vaughn, he was what we called the guard and wielded a rifle. He would usually sit on the horse and make sure the bounty didnt try running off. And Im not belittling him, as he was a damned good one and a very good shooter, likely better than me (with a rifle) and he hardly ever missed his mark but he was very conservative with his ammo. Next was Bailey Carson, the only female on our whole team but dont think we passed her around, oh no, she held her own. She was our tactician. She would plant traps and lure the enemy and then fall back and fire arrows into the field to keep him on his toes. She was a dynamite expert and was also useful with a bow. And last but not least was Jim Avery. Jim was headstrong and tough and used a shotgun for most of the battles, he was also a gunslinger. He was a frontline attacker and would always be the first to charge into battle. We were all sitting around our campfire site, there was no fire considering it was hardly past noon but there we were there anyway, listening to Vaughn play the fiddle, he wasnt very good, but it was still something to listen to. We were waiting for Emreys to return as we had just turned in a notorious bounty. I had just told everyone how I met Crazy Ray in Oreison again. Crazy Ray was an old, drunken, washed up, sheriff of a town we never even knew, and doubted existed. Ray would tell the most ridiculous stories and try to pass them off as real life events that happened to him. He claimed he was the owner of a now defunct company in the east who invented cats and when I told him he that you didnt invent cats, theyve been around as long as anyone can remember he insulted my mother and fell asleep in a horst cart. This story left them in stitches. All in all, it was a very good day seeing as we were just waiting for payment of the aforementioned bounty, worth 1,500 dollars. 1,500 is a lot of money but split 6 ways it isnt that much. Dont get me wrong, I would never double-cross the team but it just means that well have to get more bounties. I dont mind though, I like the team. Did I tell you the trouble John Slade gave me when I tried to turn in Sullivan? asked Emreys, referring to our latest bounty. No, he gave you trouble? I asked. Nope responded Emreys and he pulled the 1,500 out of his vest. We laughed and Emreys began to divide the 1,500 up semi-equally, he got a small cut since he didnt really do that much. We were holding our share and grinning happily but then it was broken by a shot that echoed in the dark and hit close to our campsite, sending some arid sand flying and making a Pwaang richochet noise. Quick, lets check it out, and Ken, since you made me laugh, Bill has to stay behind and watch the horses this time I said. So me, Carson, Avery, Carter and Emreys all drew our weapons and headed into the clearing to find the source of the shot. We all walked quietly around for a good five minutes until we heard a loud gunshot back at the campsite and nothing more. Bill! I shouted. I half-assumed he had fired a round at an unseen assailant but I was pretty sure I was wrong. I heard the roar of his Henry rifle often enough to know that the shot wasnt from him and as I reached the campsite I was proven to be right. There was a blood splatter on the tree next to where Vaughn had been playing his fiddle and the fiddle lay nearby, there were scratches in the dirt. I could hear galloping in the background and a very distant outline of a horse and a rider. I ran over to my horse and jumped

on the side and took off after the rider, I could hear the rest of the team ride after me but I didnt care, I just wanted to find the unknown rider and find out what happened to Vaughn, I wasnt angry yet, just curious. Almost as soon as I started riding, the chasee disappeared behind a crest of a hill and when I reached the crest he was already long gone and the tracks were already covered up by a desert wind. I stood there and I thought to myself about Vaughn. I had known him since we were kids. We both were the founding members of our team of bounty hunters, he was my first friend I ever had and now he was gone, I didnt want to think he was dead and I knew the others would say he wasnt, but I knew he was, what else could have happened, but I wondered why someone would kill him. Vaughn wasnt as popular with the rest of the team as Emreys, not because he was undesirable or disliked but mostly because he was quiet and reserved so the rest of the team didnt know him that well. For the first time since I was a kid I started to cry. I didnt break down sobbing or anything but I could feel tears forcing themselves through my eyes. Even when our last member had been killed a few months ago I didnt cry, but I guess its because he wasnt as close to me as Vaughn was. The rest got close to me and I tried to stop the tears and I succeeded and then turned around to see them. What are you waiting for, go after him! said Avery. I dont know where he went I said. So, youll find him eventually retorted Avery. No I wont, its useless I answered. No its not, lets go said Avery. If there was any chance I could find him dont you think I would, but there isnt, this is a huge desert, I wont find them no matter how long I look I told him and he calmed down. What do you want to do? asked Carson. I wasnt sure. Lets go to Galajaro and wait for news, hell turn up sooner or later I said, deciding to cling on to a shred of hope that he would show up. I figured we would get word, bad or good, soon enough. We like Sheriff Slade and he liked us so he would be sure to tell us. We rode quietly back to Galajaro, the nearest town. There were random spurts of conversation behind me, mostly initiated by Emreys but they didnt last long and were soon quelled by awkwardness of knowing everyone else was listening in. Emreys then gave up with a big sigh and sat in silence. We arrived in Galajaro at sundown and we entered the sheriffs office. Sitting at the table with his feet up was one of the few Galajaran law officials we didnt absolutely despise, John Slade. He sported heavy stubble and a long tan redingote. He had a soft brown hat with a telescope crown and a decorative band around the hat. He had long black pants and spurred boots. Hey there Jack, Bailey, Jim, Tom, Ken he greeted and he stood up to shake our hands. I liked him so I took it and said Hello John. What brings you back here, another bounty?Slade asked. Not exactly, wed just like to ask if you know anything about Bill Vaughn? I asked. Your teammate huh, nope, nothing yet, but if he comes in Ill tell you offered Slade. Why, something happen? he inquired. No, he just said hed be here so I was wondering but yeah, if you could keep us updated I said. Slade nodded. I didnt want to tell him the real reason; he does still work for that bastard Mayor Byron after all so he cant be all good. I nodded in thanks and then left with the rest of the team. Well, lets head to Henrys and wait the night and check in the morning I said. We all rode back but conversation was a lot more significant this time around between Emreys, Carson and Avery, Carter rode up front with me. The topic they picked was Slade. How is it that the rest of the Galajaro lawmen are such shitheads but John isnt asked Carson. I dont know if Slades what Id call nice but I get what you mean, said Emreys, and who do you mean by the rest of them? You know, theres that weirdo Ridley, that bastard Ross, that slimy Raymond, that idiot Allgood annnnnnnnnnd Covel said Carson, trying to remember them all. Pff, those arent lawmen, those are Byrons underlings, they do his dirty

work under the cover of being lawmen retorted Avery. And Slade doesnt? Emreys asked Carson. Not as much and at least hes nicer about it she replied. Hes as much of a criminal as the rest of them added Carter beside me. Whats your opinion Jack? Carson asked me. I think hes a nice guy but I cant imagine the sheriff to be a straight shooter but his force to be crooked, hes gotta be crooked too I said. It makes sense said Emreys. Well either way I dont care, he aint screwing me over and hes nice to us so whats the big goddamn deal? I asked. I couldnt understand why people where so mad at other people being crooks, it aint bothering them any, when the crooks get you though is when its time to care but until then it shouldnt be a problem, in my opinion anyway, but Im an opinionated guy. Its why we hate Byron, he was fine till he messed with us a while ago. Theres Henrys said Emreys. Over to the right was Henrys ranch, its where we stayed sometimes when we were close enough. Henry Marshall was a good friend of ours for years and we offered that he come with us but he refused, saying he belongs on the ranch and honestly, I dont blame him. Hes also got a family now so he cant go anywhere. We rode up the path and as usual, Henry spotted us and he came out of his house with his son Vince. He opened up the stable and we rode on in, leaving Emreys to tie up the horses as we went around the side of the house into Henrys root cellar through one of those two door trapdoor things . So guys, wheres Bill? he asked. We dont know said Carter. What do you mean you dont know? he questioned. Carter explained the story to him, Emreys walking in halfway through and remaining silent. Oh, well, you know hes probably dead said Henry. Thats typical Henry, he doesnt mean to be an insensitive prick, but hes very blunt which contributes a lot to it, but I dont hold it against him, I know he doesnt mean to be. Thats what I figured too I told him. Id love to stay up and talk but I am so damn tired I just cant do it tonight, Im going to bed and as usual, stay as long as you want and Ill see you in the morning, Ill tell Belle to cook extra eggs and beans said Henry and he left the cellar. We stayed up for a while but I wasnt in much mood for talking, neither were the others so I went to bed before anyone else and when morning came, I was ready to go. Chapter 2: Breakfast at Henrys June 14th Rise up you dirty bastards, eggs are cooking said a voice. I opened my eyes and looked into the always clean shaven but haggard face of Henry Marshall. He rushed out of the cellar again as fast as last night. I pulled on my boots and put on my jacket and hat and left, slapping Averys forehead as I left. There was a picnic table outside where Henry, Vince, his wife Belle, his other son Peter and his daughter Sadie were sitting. Hello Mr Ballard said Sadie. I had repeatedly told them to just call me Jack, I had a thing about being called by my last name that annoyed me, but they didnt listen so I didnt bother telling her again. Plus, Henry and Belle brought them up that way to refer to elders as Mr and Mrs and I wasnt about to tell them how to be a parent. At least Vince called me by my first name but I guess thats because he was over twenty years old now and had known me for all of them. Would you like some eggs and beans Jack? asked Belle. Sure thing I replied and sat down next to Vince, who I always had a strong friendship with. There are some people who just instantly like each other when they meet and thats what me and Vince had, we just simply always got along. I didnt much like talking to little kids because I couldnt have an actually conversation with them, I had to watch what I said, what I talked about, made sure I didnt let a cuss word slip out and etcetera, it was just too much hassle. If Peter or Sadie talked to me I naturally talked back, but I tried to get out of the

conversation as quickly as I could. Did you catch that dirty Texan? asked Vince, referring to Sullivan. Sure did, and got 1500 for him I said. Dead or alive? asked Vince. It paid the same I said. So dead then said Vince. They dont fight as much dead I said and we both laughed. I to being them in dead. They have bounties on their heads for a reason, theyre bad people. It saves time if we just kill them and give them body to Slade or Diego then bringing them back alive and letting them hang, and sometimes they break out so they get away and I just dont like that. After a while the rest of the group came up for breakfast and Carter joined me and Vince as he got along well with Vince too. We finished eating and I stood up Im going back to town to talk with Slade about Bill, whos coming with, I only need one to come with me I said. I didnt like big crowds; I had a sort of social anxiety, large groups of people made me very uncomfortable so I like to travel small. As usual, Carter volunteered and we rode off into Galajaro. What do you expect theyll tell us? I asked Carter. Nothing, to be honest, theyve probably buried Bill in the desert and hell never be found said Carter and I thought to myself he was probably right. We arrived in town under the swinging sign that said Galajaro in nice swirly letters. We rode straight up the saloon, deciding to go for a drink first. Although we didnt say it out loud, we both thought it. We entered and there was the bartender, an acquaintance of ours named Walter Daughtery. Walter was wearing a red and white striped shirt and had two elastics around his biceps. His large mutton chop moustache combination looked even bigger than usual and his shiny bald chrome shone over his bar counter. We sat at the bar and he already had two glasses out for us. We sat in silence and didnt even notice the saloon doors swing open. We turned around and saw a site we did not want to see, Mayor Byron of Galajaro. Chapter 3: Accusations June 14th Byron looked like your typical official, in my opinion anyway. He had a trimmed quickly greying beard, a black hat with a flat small brim, a black and purple striped vest stretched over a potbelly and an opened black suit jacket over top. He smiled as he walked in. To his right was John Slade and to his left was another of his lawmen Jasper Allgood, looking pleasant as usual. I hated Allgood with everything I had in me. He was a mean black hearted son of a bitch who liked nothing more than to inflict pain. It didnt help that on the outside he was a good looking, happy faced guy whom I never thought could do any evil. A while ago we had subdued a bounty in Oreison and he snatched the body from under us and returned it to Galajaro, taking credit. Thats just what he did as an asshole, not the murders and robberies. We turned on our seats and stared at Mayor Byron. Well well well, if it isnt Jack The Headhunter Ballard and Tom Carter, the two bounty hunters, I didnt know you boys were into robbing trains now? said Byron with a malicious grin. What are you talking about old man? I asked, not that Byron was all that old but I knew it would make him mad if I said it. What, you dont read the papers out there in the boondocks? asked Byron, referring to our nomadic nature, or Henrys house, I wasnt sure. Thats fine, I dont judge, Ill read it to you said Byron. Allgood handed him a sheet of paper. The body of one William Travis Vaughn was discovered at the site of the last night train robbery, now if I remember correctly, Mr Vaughn was part of your team, was he not? asked Byron, and by now, everyone in the saloon was now looking between him and us, Walter was repeatedly cleaning the same glass over and over, staring at us. Me and Carter both realised what he had done, I felt my blood boil. In summary, a train was robbed last night and everyone was killed and the body of one of your crewmen was discovered there, now, explain that to me

said Mayor Byron snidely, crossing his arms. Sure thing, you killed Bill and dumped him there so that you could frame us for robbing the goddamn train you decrepit bastard yelled Carter and he got up. I pulled him down, not that I wouldnt have loved to see him punch Byron in the face but I also didnt want to see him get shot by Allgood and Slade. Why would I rob a train, I am a respected mayor of a prospering town, while you are poor, dirty bounty hick criminals in desperate need of money, besides, you have no proof said Byron. He took a single scroll from Allgood. He opened it and on it was a picture of me and a reward underneath it. Allgood handed him four more posters, each depicting one of the members of my team. I was worth the most, I dont know why, but I was. I assume you patrons were listening, and there is a hefty reward for these two he said to the saloon company. He then turned around and left the saloon doors swinging with Slade and Allgood standing there, hands near their guns. The saloon was deathly silent and all eyes were on us. Chapter 4: Saloon Shootout June 14th I whipped out my pistol and fired a bullet near Allgood and every gun in the room was drawn but not before me and Carter rolled behind the bar counter, pulling Walter down with us. Bullets zinged overhead and shot bottles and glasses and embedded themselves into the counter in front of us. Know how to use this? I asked Walter, handing him one of my revolvers. I knew he didnt. He took it gingerly and tried to hold it, looking awkward. Cock and pull I told him. Carter had crouched and crawled to the other side of the counter and looked at me. I looked up at the mirror in front of me on the wall and pointed to Carters right. He raised his revolver and aimed over top the counter, I aimed him using the mirror and when I raised my thumb he fired and shot an attacker in the head. I used this distraction to yank up Walter and stand up myself. I managed to fire two rounds into an attacker and one into another, not quite killing him before I had to duck back down since a bullet shot through my sleeve and scared me. Walter had fired a shell near the man I wounded but I grabbed him by the apron and pulled him back down. Dont loiter Walt I advised him. I then realised that it was a very stupid move, standing up in firing range of everyone, I decided not to do something like that again. This doesnt look good, when we were up there were 10 and we only killed 2I said. Carter raised his finger, apparently he had killed one. 3, so theres only 7 left now I said to Walter. I looked over at Carter and as I looked, a man reached over the counter and pointed his revolver at the top of Carters head. I tried to aim my gun in time but couldnt. A gunshot echoed and I expected to see Carters brains plaster the walls, I was half right. The man standing above him had his brains blown out and I smelt the acrid malodour of gun smoke. I turned to see Walter pointing my revolver at where the man was. He was sweating and shaking and didnt look like he could grip the gun anymore. I took it and said It was either him or Tom, you made a good choice. I let him calm down and handed him the revolver back when he was more stable. Ok Walter, we gotta make this count, were gonna jump up and shoot everything in sight, got me? I asked. He nodded fervently. I turned to tell Carter but he signalled that he had overheard. I grabbed an alcohol bottle and tossed it across the room and jumped up, it got the attention of a patrn so I left him for a second and nailed a different one in the teeth. Carter took care of the distracted gent for me so I turned my sights to the last four. Then there was a bang, no louder than the others and I felt some of the worst pain I have ever felt in my life. I had the feeling of something very hot hit my left forearm and then something warm gush out. Later I knew it was blood but at the time I wasnt thinking too

straight. Naturally I was taken aback and I fell against the bottles into some broken glass but that wasnt my biggest worry, my biggest worry was that the next bullet would connect with my head instead of my arm if I didnt get out of the way. My fear was unfounded as the shooter, Slade, ducked out of the saloon and took off, I dont know why but I assume he had good reason. As I stared at the wall, I was told by Walter that Carter shot at Allgood who was one of the 4 remaining fighters, or was it 5, maybe 3, Im not sure, Im sort of dizzy. I raised my gun and shot at a blurring outline of a man and it actually connected to my surprise and he fell over a table and pulled on top of him, it was sort of funny. There was Allgood and two more assailants left, my vision was restoring. I fired my second last bullet and it tore through the chest of a very portly man whom I didnt recognize but I know wasnt Allgood. Carter ducked behind the counter to reload so I did too. When I went back up I couldnt see Allgood or the other fighter but then all of a sudden I saw him too fast. Allgood was vanished and the shooter had zipped up to the other side of the counter and ducked, then he had popped up with the cold steely barrel of his gun pointing to the bottom of my chin and I shut my eyes, I dont know why, I guess I was preparing for my demise. As if anyone would remember me though, just like Bill Vaughn. Im no one important, just a simple bounty hunter of New Mexico. Oh well, thats life and the end of mine. Suddenly, I wondered why I had been thinking so long and why the top of my head was still intact. I knew why when I looked down and the shooter was lying there with a bloody gaping hole where his eye was and Walter was pointing a smoking revolver, not nearly as nervous as before, saving my ass again. Before I had time to congratulate him though I suddenly felt the worst feeling I would ever feel, much worse than my arm wound, as pieces of Walters face touched mine but his head stayed where it was. He fell to the floor and Slade was standing outside the window with a rifle. He then ran off again. That weasly prick. Carter stood up and walked over to me, our ordeal over and he looked down at Walter Daugherty. He saved my life Tom I said. Mine too said Carter. He wasnt even involved I said. To be honest, Im not too morality bound but there is a few things I just really hate and one is innocent people getting killed, its especially worse if theyre dead because of me. Were burying him I said. We cant, theyll come and catch us said Carter. I knew it too. Youre right, but were coming back I said. Sure agreed Carter, now lets go. We both wanted to come back but we both silently knew we wouldnt be allowed to. I reluctantly stood up and followed Carter outside to the horses. We saddled up and got the hell out of Galajaro, hoping to never come back. Chapter 5: The Bearer of Bad News June 14th We arrived back at Henrys ranch, discussing possible courses of actions along the way. We thought up many ideas, some good and most bad and the best thing we could come up with was to be truly nomadic until we got this straightened out. The whole gang was still at the table but the eggs and beans were gone. Carson and Emreys were running around the field with Peter and Sadie whilst Avery was talking with Henry and Belle at the table and Vince was nowhere to be seen. The first to see me was Avery. His eyes glazed over me and he turned away before turning back again and exclaiming Holy shit! as he saw my gory forearm. Everyone came to see us and Emreys took our horses. What the hell happened? asked Avery. Ill tell you Jim, weve been framed said Carter. What? asked Avery. Yeah, Byron and his goons killed Bill and took his body to this train they robbed last night and blamed us for it, and now were wanted men said Carter. Well what the hell happened to Jack? asked Carson. A bunch of money

grubbing townsfolk attacked us in the saloon for the reward, Slade and Allgood were with them I told them. Hope you killed both them sons of bitches said Avery. Didnt get either of them and Walter Daughtery got killed I said. Well what are we supposed to do? asked Carson. Carter and me got some ideas but I need Belle to show me where the alcohol is so I can clean this hole, I dont wanna lose this arm I said, I liked using two guns and didnt want to be reduced to using only my right. Belle took me into the house through the kitchen up to the liquor cabinet. Listen Belle, wheres Vince at? I asked. Why do you want to know? she asked, finding a bottle and pulling the cork out. I probably wont be back for a while so Id like to say bye, in case I dont see him again I admitted and then I cringed as she poured it in the wound. She nodded. Why didnt you just pour something from the saloon in there? she asked. You had all the time on the way back to apply it. To be honest, I didnt know. I wasnt really thinking straight I admitted. She took a shawl off the shelf and wrapped it tight around my forearm and took me outside again where everyone was at the table, including Peter and Sadie but they quickly scampered off after Belle came out. Well Jack, looks like they feel the same way we do said Carter. Were stay still until it gets straightened out? I asked. They all nodded. Best to be going now I guess, Byron knows were acquaintances I said to Henry, wouldnt want him coming round here hassling you nice folks, if you ever need us, well be making campfire at the usual spot. Henry nodded. Where is Vince? I asked Belle. He made a run to Oreison to get some feed, Im afraid he wont be back for quite some time, he took the Conestoga and that things slower that a mule in mud she said. Oh, well, give him my regards and tell him I hope to see him again I said and I tipped my hat to her and turned to Emreys who had a horse waiting for me. I was a lot more disappointed then I let on, I honestly didnt think I would come out of the dilemma alive, especially with a 3000 dollar bounty on my head and if theres one thing I can guess, its outcomes. Chapter 6: Derailed June 14th As usual, Carter and I took our positions at head of the pack followed by Carson and Avery beside each other and then Emreys bringing up the rear. Um, maybe you forgot to mention this or maybe I forgot to listen, but how exactly do we clear our names? asked Carson. I never thought of that. I really dont know I admitted. Any ideas Tom? I asked. Im not saying the rest of the group is stupid or anything, but me and Carter are usually the best thinkers and if we cant come up with a plan, well, lets just hope it doesnt come to that. No, I cant think of anything either said Carter after an extended period of silence. Any ideas anyone? I asked, turning my head to face them, even though I figured I wouldnt get any ideas. Well, we could stop and see Diego, maybe he can do something suggested Avery. As I thought, I didnt think it would be too helpful, but thats what you get when Avery gives advice. We arrived in Oreison and were pretty happy to be there. We had always liked Oreison more than Galajaro, probably because Byron didnt live here or his shitbrained lackeys, but I didnt care why, I just liked it better and left it at that. The Mayor of Oreison we didnt know too well, were not even sure what he looks like, we just know his last name is Ricard. The Sheriff is who we see a lot of, his name is Antonio Diego and hes a Mexican. Were on friendly terms with Diego and we usually bring our bounties to him, hes a really nice guy, wears a sombrero. We went off to the sheriffs office but Diego was not around. Instead there was a bespectacled man in a pinstriped suit with a bowler hat. I noticed a badge on his shirt. Wheres Diego? I asked.

Checking out the train crash was the response. When we inquired further he just said I dont know anything, they left me here to watch the station. I stared at him after he stopped talking. He looked quite familiar but I dont remember him being involved in the Oreison law enforcement. He stared back for a while but eventually turned away when he saw I was winning the staring contest. You heard him, lets get going I said to the rest. What if the Galajaran officials are down there? asked Carson. Its in the boundaries of Oreison so I dont see why they would be, plus, so what, if they are there, there wont be that many anyway I responded. We headed to the train station and rode along the tracks to the way of Galajaro. Do you think were going to be finding anything there? I asked. Like what, are you looking for something? asked Avery. I wasnt really, not for anything in particular but hopefully something to connect it to the Mayor. No, not really I said. We came over the crest of a small hill and saw the train sitting there and a bunch of men walking around outside. From the distance I could see a man in a poncho with a sombrero and I knew it was Diego, my eyes arent the greatest though and I could be mistaken. AS we rode up the lawmen looked at us quite closely with their hands near their holsters, they must think were bandits. The closer we got the more worried I got until Diego recognized us and said something to them which I couldnt hear and they continued their business. Diego walked up to greet us. Hola amigos, what brings you here?he asked. I explained our predicament to him and he reassured us by saying that we could just lay low in Oreison where were not wanted. We then asked him if we could look around the train and told us of course, just dont touch anything. He assigned a lawman to follow us just in case, you can never be too sure. I was insulted, Ive known Diego for years and years and I thought we were friends but he cant even trust us to look around a wrecked train, especially when it is of grave importance to us? I tried not to think about it too much as I went through the cars. The bodies were still all in place and when I got to the last car I saw a large blood splatter on the ground but no body over it. I asked the lawman, Cortez, if he had moved any bodies and he said no. Thats when I pointed it out to Avery, Carson and Carter (Emreys was taking care of the horses.) And? asked Avery. It means someone was killed there I whispered. And? he repeated, people were killed all over the train. Yes, but why would they move the body, they didnt touch anyone else I said. He looked at me with a blank stare. Why that certain body? I asked. I dont know why and unless you can tell us something important I think were wasting our time here said Avery curtly. I didnt know why it was important but I was sure it was. Maybe they killed someone important and needed his body I said, not really having any idea where I was going with that, I was just trying to stall Avery so I could think more. Why would they need his body?asked Avery, they just probably needed what he had, if he was important they probably wouldnt have killed him Then it hit me and I snapped my fingers. I had Carters, Carsons and Averys eyes all on me. One of theirs was killed here! I said. What makes you say that, and who? questioned Carson. Because, they would have taken the body if it could have linked it to them, now all we need to do is find out who it was, think, who have we not seen recently of Byrons men? I asked. Does that really matter, they cant tell whos blood that is anyway said Avery, indicating the splatter. Yes, youre right, but I still think it would be beneficial for us to know I said. Weve seen Slade and Allgood so far so it could be Ridley, Ross or Covel said Carter. He put his head down like he always does when he thinks and I saw Cortez peeking over his shoulders, evidently trying to eavesdrop. When I saw him he quickly looked away but I knew he had heard. I stepped in to Carter and whispered Maybe we should talk about this elsewhere. He turned around and saw Cortez, he then nodded and we all left the train. Emreys was waiting outside patiently, conversing with a random blonde haired law official.

Emreys was a friendly guy and loved talking to people. Thank you Antonio, but weve learned all we can and I suppose we may as well head into Oreison I told him and clapped him on the back. Wait, Ill go with you, Ive learned all I can from here as well he said and he mounted his horse and came with us. We talked to him more of our situation but as I expected, he couldnt really do that much to help us, but he did offer us a sort of safe haven in Oreison and his personal home even. I suppose we should just wait in Oreison and try to think of better ideas. We entered Oreison again via the tracks and Diego greeted the porter. We followed him to the sheriffs station and dismounted. He stopped me before we entered. Anything I can do to help you Jack, I will and he turned around and walked over the threshold, or at least he tried to. Chapter 7: Shit Creek June 14th There was the all too familiar, especially recently, roaring blast of a shotgun discharging. There was a large hole accompanied by an even larger spray of blood and gore from Diegos gut. He flew backwards onto the porch and his sombrero rolled off. We all drew our weapons and dashed inside, jumping over Diego, but the assassin was already at the window, it was the pinstriped lawman. Before we had a chance to disable him he had leapt out of the window, shattering the glass. We all ran to the broken window, crunching the glass beneath our feet and witnessed the assassin riding off on a chestnut horse, leaving his bowler hat behind at our toes. We all quickly made room for Carter who propped his rifle up on the windowsill. Dont kill him I reminded him. There was a complete absence of any sound whatsoever and a loud bang followed by the acrid smell of gunpowder. The killer then fell off his horse onto his side and rolled into a prone position, horse stopping nearby and I couldnt tell if he was dead or not. Ken, Bailey, stay with Diego! I said as me, Carter and Avery ran out of the station. I knew Diego was dead but if he wasnt, I didnt want five people surrounding the assassin. They reluctantly stayed back as me, Carter and Avery took off after the fallen runaway on our mounts. We arrived and he was still lying there in the same position. We demounted and I nudged him but he made no noise and I feared the worst. Not that I cared about his life but I wanted to know his motive and who he was. I looked to Carter who immediately said Hes not dead, I didnt kill him. That was good enough for me so I rolled him over with my hands and saw him; his glasses were crushed and had fallen off to somewhere I couldnt even see. Thats when I recognized the face. He looked a lot different without his beard, wearing different clothes and not looking like a filthy hobo. It was Steve Raymond, Byrons lackey. Carter and Avery recognized him as well. Carters bullet has hit him right in the chest and he was holding a hand over it trying to stop it from bleeding but it didnt look like it was helping, he was bleeding quite profusely. Well well, what do we have here said Avery with a hint of a grin on his face. Raymond did nothing but cringe some more from the bullet wound. Then he did something we didnt expect and he laughed. It wasnt exactly a deep, booming laugh but it was definitely a laugh. I knelt down beside him and looked into his face. Whats so damn funny?I asked, more serious then Id ever been. He stopped laughing to cough up copious amounts of blood and then turned back to me smiling. Now youre wanted in Oreison too he laughed. It took me a moment to register what the hell he meant but Carter beat me to it. No ones going to believe we did it, were not even there now! objected Carter angrily. Raymond laughed some more and then went into a coughing fit, spewing blood on the ground and I was afraid he

was going to die right there. When he stopped, he smiled again. Just wait, youll see he said weakly. I didnt know what Raymond had done to shift the murder blame to us but I did know I had to get back to town to get Carson and Emreys before people started showing up. Ill be back, keep him alive I said and I took the horse and rode off back into Oreison as fast as the horse would take me. Carson and Emreys were still standing in the station around Diego who was still quite dead. We need to leave now I told them solidly. Before they could ask why I said Ill tell you on the way. As usual they followed without more urging and I told them what Raymond had done on the gallop over to Carter and Avery. So now were stuck outside of both towns? asked Emreys. I didnt feel the need to answer; I thought it was quite obvious. If what he says is true and we get blamed I said. We could see Raymond, Avery and Carter ahead of us but Raymond didnt look like he was moving anymore, or breathing. We dismounted and I walked up to Raymond again and had my fears proven when saw his open unblinking eyes and his still chest. He died just after you got into town said Avery. Shit I swore under my breath. What do we do with him? asked Carson. Leave him I said. But well get that pinned on us too interjected Carter immediately. So what, theyve got enough on us already I replied. Still said Carter. Yeah, Im with Tom said Avery and almost everyone agreed. I was still hesitant, in for a penny in for a pound I say. It aint gonna make much difference if were worth 2,500 or 2,000, the same people are still going to be looking for us but I helped carry that filthy asshole anyway. We threw him over the back of Averys horse and took him to near our campsite back at the acres of Henrys farm. Chapter 8: Charity June 14th We pulled Raymond off the horse and tossed him in a shrubbery semi-close to us but not so close that we could smell him rotting. At least something good came out of that said Emreys. Whats that? asked Carter. We dont have to worry about him anymore he replied and he was right. The more of Byrons lackeys we eliminated the better. Too bad the one we got was one of the most worthless. And now we know it wasnt Raymond who was killed at the train, either Ridley or Covel I said. Ridley doesnt like to show his face much, neither does Covel, itll be hard to figure it out said Carson. I think weve down about all we can for now, but Im getting pretty damn hungry complained Avery. Me too, should one of us risk a trip into town? asked Emreys. I dont think so, I think we should just head over to Henrys for supper I said. Henry doesnt exactly have the money to sustain us objected Carson. Maybe not, but I dont really want to risk my life to get my own food I said honestly. Carson looked unmoved. Tell you what, well drop off a little cash at his home I offered. Hed never take it argued Carson. No, but hes not gonna refuse if we dump it in a drawer, hell think he just misplaced it I said. Well, okay said Carson and we were off to Henrys. I collected a few dollars from everyone and placed it in a bag which I fully intended to leave on Henrys cabinet. We saw the smoke from the chimney and when we passed over his pasture we saw the lights in the kitchen and spotted the Marshalls inside around the table. There was Henry and Belle but none of the children. Henry spotted us and came out. Kids asleep? I asked. Henry nodded. Problems or are you in for a visit? he asked. Sorta both I guess I said. Were now stuck outside of Oreison too and we dont have any food, were wondering if you could give us some for the night, just some potatos and such I asked. Sure, come with me, and why are you out of Oreison? he asked and we explained it to him as he took us down into the cellar. What are your

plans? he asked. Dont have any said Avery and Henry gave me an entire sack of potatoes. Thats a little much I said, passing the bag to Avery. Dont worry about it said Henry. There was an undertone in his voice which I could not determine but it wasnt good. We walked back up in silence and when I was about to leave I asked him where Vince was. Hes lodged in Oreison I assume replied Henry and from that moment I could tell that was the first time he had though it since Vince had left. Something else was on his mind. Well, see you Henry, give my regards to Belle I said and I turned to leave. We were already back at the campsite before I realised I hadnt given Henry any money but I decided not to mention it to Carson. We had the potatos boiling in a pot and Emreys stood up to pull one out when there was a ping and water began pouring out of the pot and into our fire, then we heard a fearful thing indeed. Chapter 9: Campfire Fight June 14th Slade, Ross, Allgood and Ridley, accompanied by a few unknown officials came up through the night into view. We all sat there, not knowing what to do, looking at Ross smoking pistol which had just discharged in our cooking pot. How the hell did they find us? Slade stepped forward. We have warrants for Mr Jack Ballard, Mr James Avery, Ms Bailey Carson, Mr Kenneth Emreys and Mr Thomas Carter for the murder of Sherriff Antonio Diego, Steven Raymond, several saloon patrons and the passengers of an Albuquerque bound train Slade said, his tan redingote waving in the night wind. I assume youre here to arrest us? I asked. Slade nodded. Sorry Jackie, but its the law said Slade. Will you come quietly? he asked. What the hell do you think? said Avery. I think itd be better for all of us if you did said Slade earnestly. Well then thats gonna cause a problem said Carter. Youre coming back to Galajaro, willing or not, easier for me if youre dead, funner too, just say the word said Ross menacingly. Now! I yelled and we all rolled over our makeshift log benches and drew our weapons, as was our premade escape plan. We all lay still, under the top of the logs but we drew our weapons, as fast as we could. Avery and me were behind our bench and I could see him loading his shotgun as bullets zinged by, hitting the fire and our log. A bullet connected with the other side of the log at the spot my head was and scared the crap out of me. I rested my gun on top of the log and fired in a direction somewhat close to where the attackers where. Cover boys! ordered Slade. I took this as my chance and I ran and dove behind a large rock about 10 feet from our fire. The rock was slanted up one way and vertical the other so I could lay on it. I looked to my right and saw Carter hiding behind a tree and the rest still lying behind the logs, flat on their backs and out of sight. I tried to get Carters attention by swinging my arms wildly and he finally noticed. Higher ground I mouthed to him and he took off into the woods, rifle in hands. The log where Avery was and I used to be was quickly being reduced to splinters as bullet after bullet hit it, I had to do something quick before there was nothing left but Avery to shoot. I decided to put my life on the line, sort of. I knocked my hat off backwards and slowly pulled my way up the rock so that I could see over. I could see one of the lawmen standing right in the open, firing dual revolvers at the log, the rest of them were out of sight except for Ross who was behind a tree nearby. I waited until the lawman was out of ammo and then pulled my gun up and fired two rounds, one hit him in the gut and the other in the chest and he fell backwards. Goddammit, I cant see a thing I shouted out loud in frustration as bullets flew from the darkness. Avery reached behind him and grabbed a burning log from the fire and threw it as far as he could in the direction of Slades gang. Avery ripped off his sleeve and quickly bengan

wrapping it around his very burnt hand, the log landed far enough for me to see the other official standing there and I killed him too with a shot to the shoulder and then one in the side of his head. Hes on the rock, hes on the fuckin rock! shouted Ross from the tree. Bullets hit the rock and I ducked back under, replacing my hat again. I heard a crunching in the woods as someone tried to go around but wasnt being very quiet about it. I thought it not in my best interests to fire blindly into the trees but I didnt see any other choice. I took off into the trees, running as fast as I could, tearing through bushes and branches, knowing I was scratching myself but not being able to feel it. But what I did feel was me crashing right into the muscular form of Martin Ross and knocking both of us on our asses. We both lost our hats and weapons and we both got up as fast as we could. I eyed him, I stared into his dark brown merciless eyes. Ross was quite a formidable form, especially to me. He was well over 6 feet, I was about 5 ft 9 inches. He weighed over 200 pounds, I weighed somewhere from 160 to 170. He had all the strength he wanted in both of his arms, my left arm was gimped. I was scared. Well, well, if it isnt the ringleader he said through his teeth. Whats in it for you? I asked him. He didnt seem as confused as I had hoped to make him. What else, money he said, circling me. How does killing everyone in a train give you money? I asked inquisitively. Theres more to it than that, thought you were smart Jack he said, tapping his head, if it only you knew, but thats enough talk, its time to get this done he said and he leapt at me. His clenched fist connected with my cheek and sent me spinning. I looked up and saw him aiming another swing downwards and I spun the other way and kicked him in his back. He hopped forward from the kick but turned around to meet my fist in his stomach which hardly seemed to hurt him at all. I swung again but he grabbed my fist in the air and squeezed it, bringing me to one knee. He then brought up his knee with the force of a hurricane and smashed it into my chin which made me airborne and knocked me on the ground a few feet back. I turned it into a backwards somersault and stood up again. He stood there, a few yards away, in much better condition than I was. I was going to let him attack again so I just waited. I figured it not wise for me to fight this recklessly when Im losing. I underestimated his agility, badly, as he lunged and I felt his thick, long fingers close around my neck and him fall on top of me, knocking me to the ground once again before I had a chance to fight back. He let go and pulled back his arm and connected such a hit into my stomach that I threw up beside him. He punched me again, hitting me right in the face and breaking my nose. I felt my blood pour over my face and into my mouth and I started coughing it out and over Ross. This made him madder and he lifted up a giant fist again but I couldnt take another hit. I pulled my legs back, wrapped my ankles around his neck and pulled him off of me with a force I never wouldve thought I had. He rolled over onto his back and tried to get up so I kicked him in the face as hard as I could and he rolled over onto his back again. He laid there, barely moving so I lifted my leg and stomped my boot as hard as I could onto his face again. His nose broke when the toe of my boots hit it and his eye made a disgusting noise as my heel hit it and he stopped moving. I had won and there was silence. Wait, why was there silence? In my fight I guess I totally forgot about the gun battle going on back at the campsite. I picked up my revolvers and my hat. I stopped and ripped off Ross deputy badge and put it in my jacket pocket and ran back to the now noiseless campsite. The first person I saw was Avery, and luckily, he was not lying on the ground. He was sitting around the fire with Emreys applying bandages with a degree of dexterity I would have expected from a doctor. He was applying them to Averys burnt hand and the culprit was now smouldering gently in the grass twenty feet away. Jack, you all right? said Avery, looking at, what I can only assume is pretty grotesque, face. Wouldnt say all right but Ill live I replied. That was Ross you fought, right? he asked. Dead I said. No

way, that guys the size of a goddamn bear, how did that happen? he asked. Wish I knew I admitted. I surveyed the area. Where are all of them? I asked. We killed a few and the rest ran off said Avery. Where are Tom and Bailey? I asked. I dont know where Tom is but Bailey is just checking over there for bodies, see who we got said Emreys, finished his bandages and now looking at me. We waited for a few minutes until I heard footsteps and Carson came back. Slade, Allgood and Ridley got away, we just got the 3 others she said. There was a third? Avery asked. Jack got one and I got one, did you get the third? Avery asked her. She shook her head. Ken? he asked. Emreys shook his head. I did said a voice behind me, a voice that belonged to Carter. His rifle was slung over his shoulder. Whered you go? Carson asked him. About 50 yards back, got him from a distance said Carter. Of course he did. What I want to know said Carter as he sat down, is how they knew we were here. Well, when we were in Galajaro and Byron came into the saloon, he said he was aware we were out in the boondocksI said. Pff, everyone knows that, he just doesnt know where and he never did argued Avery. I raised my hand. How about we sleep on it, I dont know about you, but beating the shit out of Martin Ross took a lot out of me I suggested. Everyone else nodded. What if theyre back? asked Emreys as we all lay down. Right, well take watches, I dont care who goes first but Im sorry, I just cant do it I said and I closed my eyes. I fell asleep before a verdict was reached. Chapter 10: Night Watch June 15th Jack, up, its your turn said Averys voice as I was shook. I opened my eyes. Dont wanna I responded. Dont care said Avery and he pulled me to my feet and took my sleeping place. The moon was high and bright, I assumed that if we went to bed at 10:00, it was probably around 2:00 now. Carter was lying near the fire, head on the sack of potatoes, hat over his face. Avery was curled up in my spot, keeping the groove I had made. Emreys was lying dangerously close to the fire, ass in the air and Carson was lying near Emreys. I stood up and walked around the fire a few times to wake me up. Hey Jack? I sat down. What? I said back. Im worried said Emreys, in his same position. So is everyone I said. Yeah but its gotten to the point where I have to sleep with one eye open and I dont like that said Emreys. Soon, this will all be settled soon I reassured him. I had no idea what the hell I was talking about. He called my bluff. What makes you say that? he suspected. Nothing at all I admitted. He said nothing for a while and I assumed he was asleep. I took first watch said Emreys. Oh yeah I replied. Yes, and every watch since then, I just lie here and look out said Emreys. Cause? I prompted. I dont think theyve given up, Sladell be back, so will other bounty hunters said Emreys. Whats wrong with the on watch person? I asked. Nothing, just two pairs of eyes are better than one he explained. Some more silence. Do you remember when Bill used to play the fiddle and I used to sing along? asked Emreys. Yep I said. Now we cant do that anymore, because of Byron said Emreys. He was right. Someone else could play the fiddle I said. Are you suggesting we replace Bill? asked Emreys. Hell no, no one can replace Bill I said and I couldnt mean it more. Im just saying because he played the fiddle doesnt mean no one else can I told him. I dont know about that doubted Emreys. Its not that hard, you just pull and---I started. Not Bills part, mine too, I dont think Ill be around too much longer said Emreys. What?I asked astonished at his cynical talk, why? Im not a fighter, you, Bailey, Tom, Jim, Bill, you were fighters, I realised that in the shootout just now where I did nothing

except hide behind the log and hope that they died said Emreys. I said nothing. I was amazed that the ever-happy cheerful Ken Emreys was actually predicting his death and having such a negative view. Thats Averys thing, not his. It saddened me and I didnt feel like getting any sadder so I stopped talking to Emreys, for now anyways. Chapter 11: The Canyon June 15th Freeze assholes! someone yelled and a shot hit our very bullet riddled pot of potatoes which no one had cleaned up. Everyone immediately dove behind a bench and I jumped behind the rock. What the hell was this, they were back again, why didnt anyone notice? Ha ha ha hahahah! boomed the man. Henry you son of a bitch! called Avery and he stood up. I looked over the rock and there was Henry, wearing a red shirt under a brown vest and holding a bow, his hunting clothes. We all came out of our spots and noticed that Emreys was nearby laughing hard. Oh we got you good he laughed, holding his six-shooter which now only had five shells remaining. What if we would have shot you? asked Carter, pissed off. Then it would have hurt said Emreys back. It looked like he was back to normal. But you didnt and were fine and so are you, lets go kill things said Henry and he raised his bow. Any reason? I asked, coming out from the rock. Free meat shrugged Henry. Allright, lets go then, the usual spot? I asked, referring to our spot east of Galajaro. No, not today, I found a better spot, you should come see it he offered. I agreed and instead of going northeast, we just went straight west, Henry said there was no point in even getting the horses, plus, wed scare off the deer. Vince back yet? I asked him again. No, but its still early, I expect him this afternoon said Henry. He didnt seem too frazzled. I told him the details of our gunfight last night with Byrons gang which interested him greatly. They just showed up, out of nowhere? he asked. Yeah, it was night and they came out of nowhere and demanded us to submit to their arrest said Carter. Im sure youve already thought of this but do you know how? he asked. No, and we cant even begin to try and figure it out, we have no ideas on how it happened said Carter. One good thing did come out of it, we determined that is Covel who was killed at the train robbery I said. Everyone ahhhhhed because that idea had totally slid from their mind. We walked some more, engaging in various small talks and eventually we reached the high cliffs of the west. Henry took them south a bit and came to a small opening in them. Right in here he said and he took the lead. He walked through the opening and we came out in a large open, rectangular area. It was very arid and deserty, just like the rest of New Mexico and I didnt see any sort of life, animalistic or not. Sure about this? Carson asked him. Course Im sure, theyre on the other side, theres another entrance he said. We walked far and came to the center of the canyon, I looked to the other side and saw nothing, no entrance and no animals. Henry, what the hell is going on? I said as he turned to face me. Chapter 12: Betrayal June 15th Im sorry Jack he said. All expression had dropped from his voice and he couldnt bring himself to look me in the eyes. What? What did you do? I demanded. Im sorry he repeated. I stood there, staring at him and a faint thumping echoed. I waited and it got louder and faster. I turned around to face the way we came in. Coming through the narrow entrance was a

large blur of colour which was hard to determine the origin of. The heat waves combined with my crappy eyesight made it difficult but I had a feeling it wasnt good. Who are they? I asked. Henry said nothing and slowly walked through us. What had he done? The figures came more into view as men on horses. I didnt need to distinguish them to know who they were. It was Byrons men, again. I didnt dare draw my weapon for fear of being shot more times than I could count. I just waited. I had to he said. Bullshit you did you son of a bitch! yelled Avery. Just listen Jim, youll understand said Henry. I remember this being the only time in my entire life I saw Emreys lose his temper. He pushed his way through me and wrenched Averys shotgun from his hands. Henry raised his hands to defend himself but Emreys smashes the butt of the shotgun through them into Henrys face. Henry was lying there on the ground, receiving hit after hit from the blunt end of the gun whilst Emreys swore and yelled. Was it for money, huh? he accused. He struck him again in the chest. For fun?! he yelled. He spun the gun around and aimed the muzzle at Henry but I jumped in and pulled him back. They took Vince, and Peter and Sadie he spluttered. Byron said if I didnt tell him where you were hed kill them all cried Henry. Emreys stepped back, eyes wide, but not mad anymore. We stood and saw the riders approach us. I spotted Slade, Allgood, Ridley and.......Ross. He was wearing a bandana stretched over his eye and his face looked like cow meat but there he was, and they were, led by no one other then Mayor Byron. Thank you kindly Mr Marshall said Byron as he approached. Where are they, I want them now demanded Henry. Byron leant over and whispered into Slades ear. Slade retreated amidst the many gunfighters and came back with Vince, Sadie and Peter in front of his horse, hands tied behind their backs. Byron slowly dismounted his horse and pulled his jacket back. He detached a knife from his belt and held it above Peters head. No, he wouldnt. You said youd give them back, I did what you wanted said Henry who was now in tears, as would anyone be. I did, but wheres the fun in that? he asked dementedly. Time seemed to stop for what happened next. Byron lifted his knife. He grabbed the jaw of little Peter, dropped the knife to it and pulled it straight across. Peter rolled to the ground and Byron drew his pistol. He fired two shots in quick succession and Vince and Sadie soon joined Peter on a bloodstained ground. NOOO!! screamed Henry and he jumped to his feet and took off like a gazelle to cross the space between us and Byron. Byron didnt need to think twice. He pulled back the hammer and pulled the trigger. Less than a second later, Henry was lying on the ground, halfway between us and Byron, bleeding from what remained of the back of his head. There it was, the friend I had since I was born, who I grew up with, who I got out of as many jams as he got me out of, was dead. No one in the whole world would want this simple, family-loving farmer dead, except someone who thought it fun to kill. I turned to my eyes to face the cold blooded murderer. Byron wiped the knife off on the back of Peters shirt and replaced it its scabbard. Now then Mr Ballard, you cant honestly tell me you wont submit to us now? he asked me. He was right; I cant fight here, not on open ground against numbers that easily tripled ours. I was distressed but I wasnt stupid, I keep my cool. I said nothing. He beckoned Slade, Allgood and Ross who approached us with coils of rope. Ross came to me and pulled my revolvers from their holsters and tossed them aside. He walked behind me and the next thing I knew I was lying on the ground with a tremendous headache and a throbbing skull. Ross rubbed his fist tenderly and tied my hands very tightly. He brought me to my feet and turned me to face the rest of my crew. Slade had tied up Averys hands and had moved on to Carson. Allgood walked over to Emreys. Emreys was sweating profusely and blinking rapidly. His hands were clenched and they had turned stark white. He was cracking. Turn around ordered Allgood and he leant over to grab his shoulder. Quick as a flash Emreys reached in Allgoods jacket and pulled out his gun. He grabbed Allgood

around his neck and pulled him in close, cocking the gun and aiming it at his temple. No Emreys, no. This little scuffle had gotten everyones attention and all eyes were on them. Let us go commanded Emreys feebly, or I shoot him. Byron stared for a few seconds and then began to chuckle. Im sorry Mr Emreys but what makes you think I care about him? he asked. He was going to shoot through Allgood to get Emreys, and Emreys realised it too. Byron started to draw his pistol once more but Emreys didnt give him the chance to. He squeezed the trigger and blew a bullet point blank through Allgoods skull. Allgood dropped and Emreys turned his wrist to aim at Mayor Byron but was less than halfway there when the entire Galajaran brigade unloaded into Emreys. Bullets tore threw him like paper and he crumpled in a crimson soaked heap. In under a minute I witnessed the death of two of my closest friends, not to mention the family of one, and at the hands of Mayor Byron and his goons. He was going to pay, he was going to die and I was going to be the one to kill him. Leave em for the coyotes said Byron and he got back on his horse. We were placed over the backs of some of the horses, I myself was allowed to sit alone and Byron had me ride with him, for a reason I would soon learn. Chapter 13: Byron Talks June 15th Im real sorry I had to kill your friends there Mr Ballard apologized Byron. Yeah, sure you are. I had no choice, otherwise the next bullet would have made it to me and I cant have that, Im sure you understand he said. What the hell does he want, is he trying to make me see it from his view? I didnt much feel like talking to him so I let him do it all. Byron I said. He turned his head to face me. Yes? he prompted, evidently pleased with my decision to converse with him. Does damnation bother you and the fact that youre going to hell? I asked. I am not a religious man he responded. Me neither, but I know a man condemned to eternal torment when I see him I said. Byron let me calm down for a while before I asked him something that had been bugging me for quite some time. How come you always had your cronies try to arrest us, instead of just killing us? I asked him. He said nothing. Lets be straight with each other, I know youre crooked, so do you, and we both know you have no problem getting someones blood on your hands I said. No matter whos I finished as I was bitterly reminded of the five bodies now in the canyon. Because Mr Ballard, you are an asset to me he said. Huh? Explain I said. I admit I am not much of a gunslinger, Im not too active nowadays, the years are starting to wear me down he continued. I would like it if you would act as my soldier par say, be the activist, my right hand man he said, what I am asking is if you would like to join my exploits. He has to be kidding. You have been chasing me for twelve years now and you say its just because you want me to join you? I asked. Byron sighed. Money makes the world go round, people kill each other for it, people lie and cheat and steal for it, its how some people make a living said Byron. Like you? I accused. Yes Jack, like me he said. You dont mind if I call you Jack do you? he said. I dont give a damn what you call me I responded through gritted teeth. How do you sleep at night? I asked. On a giant bed, in an extravagant room with a beautiful mistress, how do you? he asked. On a thin, raggedy blanket under a sky with a bunch of scruffy, unshaven men, but I wasnt going to tell him that. Human life is of little importance to me, as such, taking it is of little consequence to me he said. I tell you what Mayor, you keep your money and Ill keep my soul clean I told him. Soul clean huh, thought you werent religious, go tell that to the families of all the men you killed he said. The men I killed were pieces of shit and you and I both know it I retorted. To you maybe started Byron, but not to

the families and friends of those men said Byron. They may be criminals but they deserve life and their friends and family deserve to have them living said Byron. Says the man with the most tainted hands Ive ever seen I said. Byron laughed. Each man is right in his own view, I have a feeling those men didnt think what they were doing was wrong he said. And you dont? I asked. No Mr Ballard, I know what I do is wrong, the difference I just dont care he finished. Whos to say old Austin Sullivan wasnt just stealing the money to feed his family, did you ask him?he said, returning to the previous topic. No I said. Hmm, tell me Jack, why did you start the business of head hunting? he asked. I sighed. Its a living I said. So is what I do but I have a feeling you wouldnt do it, whats the real reason he asked. Someone needs to protect the people of this country from those horrible men I said. They are murderers, just like you, they dont care who they kill, they dont deserve the right to live and I appoint myself as the one who takes that privilege back, because thats all life is, a privilege, you dont necessarily have to earn it, but you do need to keep it I said. And I suppose you and Mr Vaughn were the judges? asked Byron. I nodded. Then whats wrong with me being the judge, I killed the Marshalls to protect myself he said. Youre a crappy judge I said and he laughed. So what if my reasoning is different than yours, the outcome is still the same he said. I cant have someone who knows of my misdeeds running amok now can I? he said, referencing Henry, besides, he should have known better anyway. So thats Henry, what about Vince and Sadie and Peter? I asked. Assuming those are his children, well that was just for fun he said. You are the most twisted, black hearted son of a bitch anyone has ever known I said. That I am, but remember Jack, nice guys always finish last he said and he pulled his horse ahead and left me behind, giving up on me joining him in his life of crime. I dont buy it for a second. He knows I would never join him, then why does he want me alive? As I was thinking I didnt even notice Slade pulling up beside me. Sorry about this Jack, bosss orders he said, maybe in some pathetic attempt at reparation. Fuck you John Slade I said back. Now Jack, that wasnt very nice, Im just doing my job he said. Yeah and thats why I said it I told him. Please clarify he replied. You just blindly do whatever he tells you, no matter what it is? I asked him. Jack, theres something you should know about me he said, Im not right in the head. I know I said. No, not in the way you think that Byron or Ross is, in a different way said Slade. I have a lot of time to think and a lot of time to observe and other people think differently than I do, they do different things, say different things and think different things, I dont know why Im like that but I am said Slade. I dont understand I said. Think Crazy Ray, but less crazy he said. Okay, but how do you know? I asked, referring to his mental state. Because Im not normal, when people kill other people, they feel bad, I dont, I have no conscience he said. I have a feeling what I do is wrong he said, strongly emphasizing the word wrong, but if it is, it doesnt affect me, thats why I do it he finished. Think, lets say you could do a nice easy job with a bigger paycheck then a tough job with a puny paycheck, which would you pick? he asked. But you know its wrong I said. I know other people think its wrong, I dont he said. Why dont you do something about it? I asked, your condition I mean. Like what, its the way I am and I do what I do without consequence, you tell me you wouldnt like to be guilt free said Slade. No John, I wouldnt, I like to know the difference between right and wrong, to have some morality I said. Slade shrugged his shoulders. Johnny, purely out of curiosity, what was in the train that you robbed? I asked. A briefcase Jack, thats all you need to know he replied and rode up ahead, as Byron had. We rode all the way into Galajaro without stops, Byron solitary in the lead. We all remained silent, quietly mourning the death of Emreys and Henry, and I thought of Vince as well. We arrived in town around noon. As we passed down the streets,

curious inhabitants looked on us, a lot of them we recognized. There was Vic Rooker, the general store owner, Jay Tanner the barber and George McGregor, the surgeon. I also saw Marietta Daugherty, the widow of Walter and I felt a great twang of guilt in my heart. They all looked at us, most with disappointment and disgust, presumably this was their reaction to their apparent belief that we actually killed everyone on the train as Byron had said on the wanted posters. How I just wanted to yell out that we didnt do it and Byron was guilty but I knew no good would come out of it. We just rode in silence as usual until we reached the sheriffs office. We were taken of our mounts and thrown into the cells. Avery was placed in one with none other than local drunkard Crazy Ray; Carter and Carson were put in the adjacent cell and I was tossed in the corner cell alone. A few officials including Ross handed our weapons and belongings to Slade who threw them in a locker to the right of his desk and he kicked up his feet and stared at us. I got some news for you, good and bad, which do you wanna hear first? he asked us. Avery grunted. Could it get worse? he asked. Slade remained silent, still waiting for an answer. Bad said Avery. Youre all hanging high tomorrow morning he said. And the good? asked Avery. Pork tonight he said. Thats hardly good news, but I guess to Slade it is. I sat down on the cot and looked over at Crazy Ray. I snorted. What a goofy looking guy. He had a long grey beard that hung to his belt if he had one and long hair that went to his shoulders. He was wearing a long brown multi pocketed coat over a red and black plaid flannel shirt and his floppy brown hat was filthy. One of his bright blue eyes was glazed over and was constantly rolling around its socket. Its funny, no matter what state of emotion Im in, Crazy Ray always make me feel better even though he doesnt do anything. The other looked directly at me. What?! he yelled. He wasnt mad, it was just the way he talked, he constantly yelled. Nothing Ray I said, and then I paused before asking Tell me again about your pickle factory. Chapter 14: Prison June 15th Its not pickles, its cucumbers! he bellowed and I couldnt understand anything past what he had just said because it had become a drunken mishmash of words. I tuned him out and began pacing around the cell. I couldnt think straight, too many things had happened; Henrys dead, his kids are dead, Allgood is dead, Emreys is dead, Ross isnt, were in jail, were gonna hang, it was too much to grip. Scuse me fellas but I have to go out for a moment, dont run away on me will ya? said Slade and he left the building. What the hell are we going to do? I asked. Theres nothing we can do now said Avery in submittal, we cant get out of here. Not now, but tomorrow maybe I said. Well figure something out I said. I was content to not do much for the rest of the night except eat the pork that Slade had given us. Night time approached and Ross came in to relieve Slade of his post. Hey Marty, hows your eye? I asked him. He looked at me. I mean I stomped on it pretty hard, can you still see or is it just useless now? I continued. He turned away but he was still listening. How does that feel, youre a big man Ross, Im not, doesnt look like that fight came out the way it should I told him. He did nothing. I reached into my shirt pocket and pulled out the badge. Got your badge too, looks like Im deputy now I said. I pinned it on my shirt. He got up finally and walked over to the cell. He held out his hand. I looked at it. Yes? I asked. He closed his fist and opened it a few times. The badge he said. Come and get it I said back. No, hand it over now he ordered. I put it back in my pocket. Aint gonna work Ballard, either you give it to me now or I pull it off your swinging carcass tomorrow he said. Tomorrow it is I said and I sat down on the wall bench.

Damn, hes not gonna come in here. I pulled it out of my pocket again and pressed it against the wall. I started to pull it slowly, making a loud grinding noise. This got Ross attention and he quickly turned his head back to me. I pulled it back and forth, scratching it more and more and Ross came up to the cell. Stop it now he said sternly. I stared at him and continued. He pulled his jacket aside and reached into his holster. I dont think Byron would like it if he found out you killed me before I got to hang I said and he dropped his grip on the gun. I also dont think hed like it if he found your badge scratched to shit because you couldnt get it back from little old me I said. He walked back to the table and pulled off the ring of keys. I watched him and he stood in front of my cell. You took my eye Ballard, now Im going to take yours. He unlocked the door and stepped in the cell and I was scared to hell. He was just as big as he always was but now he was more pissed off and I had little elsewhere to run, maybe I should have thought this plan out more. He pulled the door shut behind him and relocked it, swinging the keys on his finger. Only one of us is coming out of here alive he said and he put the key in his pocket. I glanced to the side. Carson, Avery and Carter were all at the sides of the cells, hands gripped around the bars, glaring at us. Crazy Ray was tugging on his beard whilst staring at the wall humming some incomprehensible tune which I could only assume was supposed to be a song. Ross was getting closer and closer and I was running out of wall to back up against. Before I knew it he was standing in front of me, pulling back his arm to unleash a tremendous punch. He was big but I was quick. I pulled back my leg and drove my boot into his groin as hard as I could. He went down and shook the building when he fell. I bent down and pulled the lone key, keyring and six-shooter from his quivering form amidst many cheers from my partners, and Crazy Ray was humming louder to keep up. I unlocked the door and locked it behind me, throwing the key outside. I spent about 5 minutes going through all the keys until I found the one that unlocked Carson and Carters cell. I got lucky and Averys cell unlocked on the first key. Is my time up? asked Crazy Ray. Why not? I replied and let him go too. Wait Ray, here I said and he stopped and turned to me. Give em hell I said and I gave him Ross six-shooter. He wandered out and we unlocked the locker and took our possessions back which consisted of our weapons and money. Wait I said as we were about to leave. Just wait a minute I said and they stopped. They robbed that train for a reason I said. For a reason I intend to find out I continued. To be honest Jack, I just wanna get out of here and go back to Texas, I cant deal with Byron anymore and this is our chance admitted Avery. Weve got our moment of freedom and I think we should use it to keep us free he finished. We cant let him get away with all hes done! I argued. He killed Ken! I persisted. He did and he also killed the Marshalls, life isnt fair and hes going to get away with what he did because hes going to kill us too if we dont get out of here said Avery. Not if we find whatever was in the train that he took I said. Avery looked unmoved. Hows about this Jim, if we find what he had, we will show the Oreison mayor and he will arrest Byron, if not, we leave this state, deal? I offered. Im with you said Carter and Carson. All right, lets do this said Avery. Chapter 15: Break and Enter June 15th I peered around the doorframe. It looked pretty dead and silent except for Crazy Ray who was soon out of sight. I dont think its a good idea if we all go in a group said Carter. Heres a plan he said. Ill go down the west side, Jim go down the east, Jack go down the center and Bailey, take a horse, go around town and go into Byrons house through the back said Carter. He

was a better strategist then me anyway so I let him take the lead. We all agreed. I didnt feel like everyone who might come outside should recognize me so I took off my jacket and hung it on the hitching post. I tucked my shirt in and pulled my hat down low. I made sure to have my hands near my revolvers should the situation occur. I walked right through the center of town, seeing a few drunkards near the bar and Vic Rooker through his window, he was sweeping up his store and doing some late night renovations. The only person we really had to worry about seeing was Slade as Byron was probably sleeping and Ross was still in the jail, still, doesnt hurt to play it safe. A moustached man walked out of a building in front of me. He was wearing red suspenders over a white shirt and wore a very clean cowboy hat. I recognised him almost immediately; it was Burris Meyers, another bounty hunter. Hey he yelled to me. I ignored him and continued. Hey! he shouted again, louder. I had to respond before he woke the town up. What the hell do you want? I barked, I figure the more unfriendly I am the more likely he is to leave me alone. Youre Jack Ballard he said. Uh-oh. No, Im not I replied curtly. Another man came out of the building behind him. Meyers nudged him and whispered into his ear. The other man nodded. I turned to walk over to them. I stood in front of them, hat over my eyes so they couldnt see my face clearly. The second man reached over and pulled my hat up by the brim. Quick as a flash I uppercut him and sent him flying to the ground. Meyers reached into his belt for his weapon so I grabbed his hand and tossed the gun across the road, if he shoots that hes going to wake up everyone. I punched him in the chin and sent him flying backwards onto his ass. The second man stood up and pulled a short knife out of his boot and swung it at me. It hit me in the chest and ripped a long horizontal slit in my shirt. I kicked him in the hand and his knife flew near Meyers who was slowly getting to his feet. I whipped my pistol out and smacked him in the side of his head and knocked him sideways into Meyers who fell over again and the second man then fell over him and landed on his head. He wasnt going to get up, he broke his neck. I picked up the knife and held it to Meyers throat. Dont say anything or youre dead I warned him. He gulped but kept his mouth shut. Now what was I going to do? If I let him go he would tell everyone but I didnt want to kill him either. I pulled him up by his collar and walked him back to the sheriffs office. I picked the keys off the desk, tossed him in Carson and Carters old cell and knocked him out by punching him in the back of the head. I quickly went back on my path to Byrons house. I made the rest of the trip with no hindrances whatsoever. I didnt however see Carson, Carter or Avery at Byrons house. I even walked around and saw no one. I peered through a random window. I spotted a decorated chair and a fancily embroidered tapestry in front of a lavish fireplace; I presume its the living room. I slid the window to the side and climbed in. The house was dark and empty and very quiet, too quiet. I drew my guns already and cocked the hammers, preparing for anything. The stairs were in the next room and I walked up them as slowly and quietly as I could, alert as a cat in a dog house. I made it to the top of the stairs and saw the first door on the left open a crack and a beam of light lighting the floor. I think youre lying Mr Carter, I think hell be here any second said Byrons voice, I think its Byron, I cant really see him. Well then shouldnt you be waiting for him? replied Carters voice. No, Ive got men outside on the lookout for him, they should suffice, and after all, answered Byron, dont think Ill leave you here alone. I hope Carter will be all right, but Ive gotta find whatever was in the train. I tiptoed past the room and caught a glimpse of Carter and the back of Mayor Byron. I checked every room until I came to a particularly fancy room with a glossy, chestnut desk with many papers scattered about. There was a hat and coat rack, a window, this was Byrons office. I pulled open all the drawers and moved everything aside. I turned to leave when I tripped on the corner of a carpet. My heart froze as I tumbled to the

ground. I landed but managed to keep it relatively quiet using my hands to cushion my fall. I lay there, waiting for the sound of footsteps when I saw a small crack of light under a dresser. I pushed myself up slowly and walked over to the already searched dresser. I pushed it aside and pushed the wall behind it, which turned to the left and allowed me into some sort of secret room. There were paintings, jewels, valuable papers and information and a briefcase. A briefcase Jack, thats all you need to know echoed in my head and I quickly grabbed the case. This is what I need. I left the secret room, turned the revolving wall back and pushed the dresser in its place. I crept out of the room and as I walked past the door, caught another glimpse of Carter and Byron. I pulled a lamp off a hall table and walked to the threshold. Byron continued to taunt Carter and when he came close enough to the doorframe, I smashed the back of his head with the lamp as hard as I could. It shattered and fell down with Byron. Cmon Tom, lets get out of here, we got what we need I said and we ran out of the building, Carter thanking me along the way. We reached the front of the building and saw Avery standing outside. Sorry guys, I was being harassed by a few of Byrons hired hands and I only just got through now he explained. Dont worry about it, just head back to the camp and Ill be there in a moment I told them. They took off to the sheriffs office to get some horses and I walked back in the house. I grabbed a piece of paper and a writing utensil from an end table beside the door and sat down to write a note. Chapter 16: My Note June 15th To Mayor Byron, whatever your first name may be I will not reveal to you who the writer of this note may be because I am sure you know who it is and I do not wish a prison break to be added to my list of crimes and atrocities If you do indeed decide to display this to the general public to accuse me of said crime. I am honestly very fatigued of this tiresome game of cat and mouse where I am always the mouse. I despise looking over my shoulder at every corner, especially recently, for your goons and cronies. I dont want to continue on sleeping with one eye open as my late friend had, it is not the way a man should live his life. I know neither of us will stop until the other is dead or permanently incapacitated and I do not want to see more of my friends die at your hands, I want this to end. I propose a duel, a final battle if you will where this will be settled once and for all where only one of us will emerge victorious and ultimately alive. I know human life is of little important to you so you will soon know the reason I have for you wanting to find me. After my late night jailbreak I did collect valuable information and documents relating to your train robbery, including the briefcase which belonged to a Mr Wallace Westover and its contents. I will expose you for who you are if you do not show up where I want you to. I will say the only reason I havent exposed you yet is because I do not want you to face jail time, I want you to die. You will have to find me to retrieve Mr Westovers briefcase and I, knowing its contents, am sure you will promptly meet me to do exactly that. Being said, I will expect you to show up, I want you to show up alone but I know you will not and neither will I so expect a fight. You will show up at the place where we last met at noon sharp, I will not wait, although I dont want you to face jail time, I will make you if you do not appear. This is it, prepare yourself. Sincerely, The Headhunter

Chapter 17: Tying Up Loose Ends June 15th-June 16th I came to the camp and was standing around the fire with Carter and Avery. Whatd you do? asked Carter. Left a note for Byron I answered. What did it say? pressed Carter. I explained my note to them, beginning to end. You dont have to join me in the fight but to be honest, I do expect you to I said. Of course Ill help confirmed Avery. I will too, but why didnt you just kill Byron in his house? asked Carter. Because Im not like that, I wont sneak up on someone and slit his throat, no matter how horrible he may be, I fight an honest fight. I dont know, didnt seem right I said. Carter nodded slowly. Hey Jack, wheres Bailey? asked Avery. Well shit, in all the confusion I forgot all about her. I dont know, she wasnt with you I take it? I asked. They shook their heads. Well we cant go back into town now, Byronll be up at any moment and hell have the whole town on alert said Carter. Right. Well just have to hope shell come back, and we need to get some sleep for our showdown tomorrow, its gonna be a big un I said. We retreated into the desert in case Byron decided to show in the night and lay down amidst the sand. I hope Carson will be okay even though Im pretty sure she wont. She may be a fighter but if shes like me and ran into a few greedy hunters, I dont think shed be able to take them down, she just doesnt have the physical ability. Lets just hope. Im a young man and Ive spent a little less than half of my life running from Byron and felt so much misery and hurt from him. I want him dead and I wont settle for anything less than me killing him or him killing me, either way hell be out of my life. I honestly wonder whos going to come out of this fight alive but only time will tell and I hope my friends are as good gunfighters as I think they are because were going to need all the help we can get. I woke up bright and early and shook Avery and Carter awake. To my great and pleasant surprise, there was Carson sitting there on a log near Avery. You made it! I shouted gleefully. Sure did Jack, takes more than a few greedy bounty hunters to take me down she said. What do you know, I was wrong. I explained to her our situation and she said she couldnt be happier I made the ultimatum. Its about time this happened, Im glad you made the decision for all of us she said. Weve still got some time, I think we should visit Belle and tell her about the family I suggested. I know its gonna be tough but we have to do it, she needs to know I said. They agreed and we walked to the Marshalls which took a good chunk of time without the horses. As soon as we crested the hill to the farm, Belle came out. She was looking very distressed and worried and she ran to meet us in the center of the field. Wheres Henry? she asked. Carter grabbed her by the shoulders. Do you know about Byron? he asked her softly. Yes, he took the kids and threatened them and Henry and Im sorry for what he did to you but what happened to them? she pleaded. Carter took a deep breath. He did as Byron told him to, but that didnt stop him from doing what he threatened said Carter, he killed them Belles crying changed from hysteria to sadness and Carter pulled her in. Im really sorry to leave you now Belle but we have to said Carter and he explained our upcoming events, a condensed version. If we live Belle, well bring Henry and the kids back here but if we dont come back by this afternoon, you might need to get us if you know what I mean said Carter. We waited until she stopped crying and we had to leave. Wait a second guys, can I get you to do something for me? I asked them. I didnt wait for an answer. Can you head to the canyon and put aside the Marshalls, I have to attend to some business in Oreison I said. Sure Jack said Avery and they left across the field in the direction of the canyon. I went into the barn and grabbed a horse. I got on bareback and took off to Oreison. I passed the three on the way and tipped my hat but otherwise did nothing. I

arrived and was immediately apprehended by two officials, one of them I recognized as Cortez, the official from the train. They claimed that they were going to arrest me. Ive been called here for a chat with Mayor Ricard and as such, I have temporary immunity from your laws, so if you could just escort me to his office thatd be fantastic I lied. They didnt believe me but they decided that it would be a better idea to take me to Ricard anyway, worst that would happen is that he said no and they took me to jail. We arrived at the town hall and I saw Ricard for the first time in my life. He stared at me, one eyebrow raised. Im here for the meeting Mayor, the meeting about Mayor Byron I said to him, winking. He got the hint but took all my guns and kept his close by in case I tried any funny business. Youre the fella who killed Diego arent you? he said. I nodded. Youve got some brass ones to come in here and say you have a meeting with me, whats stopping me from blowing your head off right now? he asked. Ill tell you why Ricard I started. I didnt kill Diego, it was one of Byrons men, you dont have to believe me but what I will tell you is this, I didnt rob the train either and I have proof Byron did it I said and I tapped my briefcase. Whats in it? he asked curiously. Sorry sir, for my eyes only, or yours later maybe I started. He looked confused. I have arranged a certain occasion where I will meet face to face with Byron, I will spare you the details by saying only one of us will live, I just want to make sure that if he lives, you can prosecute him with this I said and I held the case up. You dont need to see whats in it right now, believe me, if you get it youll get a conviction I assured him. Why dont you just show me now and you could save yourself the chance of risking your life? asked Ricard. Because Mayor, I want him dead and thats why Im not turning to any authorities I said. He still looked somewhat frazzled. I will simplify this I tried. Me and Byron will fight, if I win and he dies, forgot I was ever even here I started. If I lose however, which is a big possibility, make sure you use this case to get him jailed, if he doesnt die I at least want him behind bars, I will leave a piece of paper in my inside left jacket pocket so that if I do die, make sure you take the paper off my corpse, it will lead you to the case I said. If youre so sure youre going to lose, then why are you doing it? he asked. My reasons Mayor and Id appreciate it if you didnt inquire anymore I said. I stood there, hoping for a positive response. He stood up, walked around his desk and stood in front of me, looking into my eyes. He grabbed my hand and shook it vigoursly. Make sure that bastard suffers and Ill do what I can to get him jailed if you cant he said and we both smiled and I was happy for a brief moment before remembering what I was going into. He handed me back my gun and escorted me personally out of Oreison. Best of luck he said and he watched me ride out into field. Chapter 18: The Final Showdown June 16th It was right before noon when I arrived in the canyon. Carson and Avery were standing in the middle. There was a lone tree to the right and a giant boulder to the left. Carson, tree, Avery, boulder I ordered. They went and I hid in a small depression in cliff wall. Carter? I called. Shutup! hissed Avery. There was the noise of feet stomping and I spotted the entrance to the canyon filling up with people. I watched them stream in, there was about twenty to thirty of them, Byron in the lead, Slade to his left and Ross to his right. I also spotted Meyers. Keep your eyes peeled boys, theyre round here somewhere said Byron. Remember the reward for their heads he reminded. There was a loud echo and a man fell off his horse, leaving a red splat on

the man behind him. They all jumped off their horses and I wondered who the hell shot that. Where are they? asked a panicky man. I dont know, move forward and shoot! ordered Slade, get back boss. Byron backed up and turned his horse sideways to give him some cover. We waited until the line crossed over where the tree and rock were and we all shot at them. I hit two with my pistols, Carson had lobbed a piece of lit dynamite and Averys shotgun tore apart none other than Meyers. We quickly rotated around our hiding points and I took off to hide behind the rock, followed my Avery. The dynamite exploded and killed more than five of the people.That rock and that tree! shouted someone and bullets started flying everywhere. Some hit close, some went not even near. Avery held his gun above his head and jumped. He fired it at his peak height and peppered a few of the vanguard. A bullet then shot his hat right off his head in midjump. Bartok, Wesley, flank the rock now! screamed Slade. Shoot again I told Avery and he lifted the gun over his head and fired another shell into the flankers, hopefully. Bartok and Wesley darted around the corner and I knelt down and shot one of them in the chest with two bullets, dropping him like a stone. The other had time to aim his repeater rifle and he fired shell after shell at us location, I took one in the already injured left arm and Avery took one in the gut and one in the thigh before I managed to dispose of him with a single bullet between the eyes. Pull through Jim, a gut shot wont kill you, itll just hurt like hell I reassured him. He nodded, he didnt have time to be in pain, the adrenaline wouldnt let him. I took a peek at Carsons tree which was so bullet-riddled that I couldnt even imagine how she was still alive, I guess it was because she was crouching. I heard a thunk and fired one of my guns straight up without aiming and a body soon fell on us. Avery pushed it off. One, two NOW! I said and we both rolled out on opposite sides. I rolled into an oncoming man who fell on me. I punched his throat as hard as I could and held his body up for cover as a human shield. He started shaking violently as shot after shot hit him and a vicious shot from a rifle blew a fair sized hole in his head. I used this hole for my pistol and fired my remaining rounds into the crowd, felling three men and two of the ones who were injured from Averys shotgun blast. I threw the man forward and leapt into a small depression in the sand. I felt a very hot sensation in my calf as a bullet tore through it and another bullet knocked up a small puff of sand where just moments later my head landed. I literally ripped off my jacket pocket and took two of the speed loaders out of the sand and shoved them in my chambers. I laid flat and crawled out of the hole, fast as I could, sand filling and cutting my calf wound but I didnt have time to worry about that. Two men were shooting at me and the rest were shooting at a very injured Carson and Avery was out of my sight, presumably behind the rock where I couldnt see. Not presumably, hopefully would be more accurate. I rolled sideways, and fired one shot from each pistol as I rolled. I hit one man the hip and he fell down screaming, and the other bullet missed its mark and flew into the sand. I backwards somersaulted back into the sand depression and stood up. The other man I had missed shot me in the ear and didnt slow down his firing rate. I set off two more shots and they both hit the standing man. I reached out and grabbed the mans gun and shot the injured one in the face, no sense wasting my ammo. It was down to Ross, Slade and only a few other men. Ross left wrist had an arrow sticking threw it and he was holding a knife in his other hand and advancing around the tree to Carsons location who was holding another arrow in her hand. She was bleeding from her chest, her abdomen, her left arm, her right leg and from a wound on her neck which gave her a lot of breathing problems. Ross came around and thrust his knife into Carsons stomach until it came through her back. In turn, Carson had jammed her arrow straight through Ross neck. Carson fell backwards onto the sand, dead before she hit the ground and Ross stood there, clutching his throat. A big echo sounded and a small red spray shot through Ross forehead

accompanied by a large hole and he fell forward beside Carson, both as dead as dead can be. I very briefly pondered the origin of Ross headshot but didnt have time. I had to check on Avery and finish off the last few of them. I ran to the rock and shot one more of the men. This alerted the last of them to my location as they had been ignoring me and they started turning to me. I leapt onto the rock and fired as many bullets as I had left, I had lost count. I only stopped when my hammers started clicking. Two men fell and one man remained shooting at me. A small piece of silver came flying at me and flew into my mouth. It came out of my right cheek and knocked me off the rock. I got to my knees and heard a deafening blast as Avery discharged his shotgun right near my ear and shredded my shooters stomach into pieces. Slade stood there solo, pistol aimed at Avery, finger on the trigger and motionless. I was out of ammo, I assume Avery was or he would have unloaded into Slade. Avery and Slade stared at each other coldly and for the first time in my life I saw a smile graze Slades lips. This is it Jim, between you and me he said. His statement was followed closely by two simultaneous clicks and nanoseconds later, a discharge of bullets. Luckily for Avery, his shotguns kickback knocked him off step and Slades bullet only hit Avery in his left shoulder. Unluckily for Slade, his revolver had no kickback and Averys shotgun had a wide range. It nailed him in his legs and he fell on the ground, immobile but still breathing, left leg hanging on by a few shreds. I put a few more bullets in my pistol, hobbled over to Slade and put it in his mouth. Ill see you in hell laughed Slade and I pulled the trigger, spraying the sand underneath him with the back of his mouth. I looked at Avery who was in terrible condition. He had multiple chest shots and torso wounds; he wasnt going to last much longer, he was dying. Wheres Bailey? he asked. Shes fine, shes just making sure theyre all dead I lied to him. Good, thats good he said and a stream of blood trickled from the corners of his mouth. Cmon Jimmy, lets get you up I said and I pulled him up and put his arm around my shoulders. We started walking out when Byron stepped from around his horse. Dont underestimate the little guy, or in this case, the old man he said. His pistol was drawn and aimed at us. You fought a good fight Jack, a really good fight, Ill give you what, that was quite an exciting watch he said. Youre sick I said. How can someone get enjoyment off of people blowing each others limbs off? Mr Avery, did you see that earlier, with Ms Carson? he asked. Huh? asked Avery. No? asked Byron, Ill fill you in. One of my late deputies, Mr Ross, ran her through with his 10 inch knife said Byron, laughing. Avery turned to me. Is it true? he asked. No, hes a lying asshole, dont believe a word he says I said, trying to comfort him. No no Mr Avery, look right over there urged Byron, pointing to the tree. Avery averted his eyes to the scene. There was Ross, lying there with two arrows and a bullet hole and Carson, with a 10 inch blade protruding from her back. Was it you? asked Avery, slightly disoriented, turning back to Byron. Yes, yes it was lied Byron, even though he had just said it was Ross. Avery believed him and in his rage, pulled himself from me, taking his backup pistol from his belt. I wanted to stop him but it was too late. I flicked my wrist up and fired a shot without aiming, hoping it would hit Byron. He had the upper hand but once again, I was quicker. My bullet semi hit its mark. Byrons gun flew from his hand with my bullet lodged in the fore stock. What I saw worried me tremendously. More accurately, it was the absence of what I expected to see which worried. Byron didnt seem worried that he was defenceless, he was still laughing. I soon saw why. There was a flash from the cliff far behind Byron. I saw the dark clothed forgotten figure of Robert Ridley lying flat on the top of the cliff and heard a thudding noise from Avery. A bullet went directly through his chest and landed in the sand behind him. Avery clutched his chest and fell to his knees. He looked at his bloodied hand. Another flash from Ridley and another bullet went through Averys heart and he fell onto his back, dead. I guess you didnt figure on my

sharpshooter said Byron. Another shot went off but I didnt see the flash from Ridley, instead I saw Ridleys figure roll all the way down the cliff and fall into the canyon. I turned around and saw Carter on top of the opposite cliff. Carter tipped his hat and walked off the cliff. . Guess you didnt figure on ours I said. Byrons sickening smile was replaced by a look of fear Ive never seen on him. I began to close the distance between us, stepping around Averys body until I was looking Byron straight in the face. I grabbed him by his collar and pulled him in as close as I could. I pressed the still warm barrel of my pistol against his chest and he squeaked as I pulled back the hammer. Nice guys finish last huh? I asked. As I pulled the trigger the most satisfying feeling I would ever experience in my time on this earth flowed through me as Byrons life ebbed away from his. I let go and he fell backwards in the sand, staring blankly at the sun. It was over. Byron, his men and the evil grip he had on the community was gone. I had avenged the death of all my friends and killed the man I hated most in the world. I walked back to the cliff depression I had uncovered and carried out Westovers briefcase. Inside was a note explaining the location of Byrons secret room of misdeeds. I closed Byrons tightening hand around the handle of the briefcase and turned to face the canyon exit where Carter was awaiting, rifle slung over his shoulder. What now Jack? he asked. I dont know Tom, but what I do know is its time we left this place. We walked through the desert, leaning on each for support. We were all we had left.