Song: Comes and Goes ~ Greg Laswell

King and Lionheart

Chapter Four:

The Funeral

They returned to New Adeline first thing in the morning to rent the wagon. Two men waited on them, one who introduced himself as Alan Haines and the other as Curtis O'Brien. Alan was of average height, paunchy, and a thick handlebar mustache. His hair was dark blond and shortcut and his eyes blue. Dressing in typical cowboy attire, he reminded Nila of those outlaws on the covers of her penny dreadfuls. His partner was a tall, clean-cut, red-haired man who dressed nicer in a black suit.

They shook hands, greeted both Nila and Charles with surprising friendliness.

"So, where we takin' this coffin, miss?" Mr. Haines asked.

"Annesburg," replied Nila.

Haines took off his hat and scratched his head. "That's a ways from here ain't it?"

"I understand that but the train will only go as far as Copper Valley. They have yet to extend the tracks to beyond that."

Haines sighed, looking unsure. "I don't know…"

"I'll pay extra."

Beside her, Charles gave her a questioning look.

"I'm good for it," Nila whispered to him.

Haines shrugged. "Alright then, let's get movin'."

Watching the coffin being loaded onto the wagon brought Nila joy. She contained her true feelings, though, by keeping up a stoic manner. Once, the men almost dropped the coffin. When they apologized, she shrugged it off and climbed onto her mustang. The coffin was secured, ready for the long journey that awaited it. For Nila, the journey would be too long.

"I can't wait to get back to Blackwater and throw this bastard in the ground," Nila said.

Both Charles and the men transporting the coffin looked at each other, surprised by her words.

"Must've been one mean bastard for you to say a thing like that," O'Brien commented.

"You don't know the half of it, partner," she replied. "Well, are we gonna stand here and talk or are we gonna get a move on?"

"Yes, ma'am," Haines said, tipping his brown hat to her.

With the whip of the reins, the horses pulled them away from the morgue. Charles and Nila rode on each side of the wagon as they rode through town. She kept a lookout for the men who caused problems the previous night, worried they'd keep their word on coming back.

The ride was in silence for most of the journey. Nila sometimes looked in Charles' direction, but he kept his focus on the road. Even though she was a quiet person, she wished for someone to say something to her. When she was in town or on a train, the silence was welcoming but here with a small group of people; she wished someone would speak. If not to her than each other. The only sounds were the creak of wagon wheels, the clopping of hooves, and the snort of horses.

They left the city limits ten minutes later and were surrounded by golden plains. In the distance were blue mountains and rolling hills. The scenery was even more beautiful than the day before.

"Pay attention," Charles said quietly.

"Sorry. It's just that I've never seen anything like this before. It reminds me of the Great Plains but this is… I don't know what it is, but it's somehow better?"

"I think I understand."

The crisp air felt good on her face and made her mustang frisky. Eyota bobbed her head and tried to break into a run.

"You do?"

He nodded. "There are no bad memories here."

She considered this for a moment before agreeing with him.

"I wouldn't mind living here."

Ahead, the two men driving the wagon laughed.

"Little lady, this is the last place you wanna live," Haines said.

"There's corruption here," added O'Brien.

Nila scoffed. "There's corruption everywhere."

"You ain't wrong about that, miss."

Nila never thought seeing smokestacks would excite her but after staring at the back of a coffin for the last two hours she was glad. They were finally back in Annesburg. She was ready to go home, get it over with, and put it all behind her.

She bought two tickets without asking if Charles wanted to come with her. He boarded his Nokota with Eyota in the livery car before following Nila onto the train.

Although he was only away for a year, West Elizabeth had a different atmosphere to it. Not good nor bad, just different. As the train snaked across the state, Charles kept his head down and kept an eye out for any Pinkerton agents. He hadn't given them much thought during his time away, but now that he returned, his gut told him they were out there.

There was still a bounty on his head, this he knew. So far, he'd been lucky no one had found him. He questioned how much time he had left before his luck ran out. He was certain someone would spot him the moment he showed his face. The Pinkertons were like angry hornets, and Blackwater was the nest. He was taking a risk, all for a girl he barely knew. It was strange but at the same time; it felt wrong leaving her now.

Another thought that crossed his mind was Uncle and the Marstons. He hoped they were getting along okay. The day he left, Charles had come across a pair of bounty hunters sitting by a campfire, arguing over how they'd catch one of "Dutch's boys". He went back in the night and settled their argument for them with two bullets to their skulls. It was most likely all talk but he would not risk it. He wanted to see John and Beecher's Hope again. If he did go and see them, he'd have to wait until dark.

"Charles?"

Nila's voice pulled him from his thoughts. "Hmm?"

"You okay? You haven't spoken much since Annesburg."

"I'm not much of a talker."

"Neither am I," she admitted. "We make quite a pair then. So I guess I'm gonna be the one to bite the bullet and start up conversations?"

"You don't have to."

"You seem a little… tense. You sure you're okay?"

"It's been a long day."

"And evening. Are you joining me at my house? I'm sure my mother wouldn't mind."

"It's probably not a good idea. Your mother is grieving and I wouldn't want to disturb her."

"It'll be fine, I promise. Once I explain that you've helped me, she'll want to meet you."

He still wasn't sure it was a good idea, but he agreed nonetheless. He would need to keep a low profile.

"I'll be glad when the train can reach town," Nila said as the train slowed to a stop at Riggs Station.

Looking out the window, he spotted an undertaker carriage waiting for them.

"I guess she came through after all."

Pulling his hat down, he followed Nila off the train. He offered to fetch the horses letting her deal with the coffin. Taking Eyota and Falmouth, he led the horses off the car and hitched them in front of the office. He stayed back with the horses, watching as two burly men hauled the coffin onto the carriage. The undertaker assured Nila the body would reach the morgue where she could make plans for the funeral.

She waved goodbye as the undertaker rode away and turned back to Charles. She flicked her long hair over her shoulder and made her way over to him.

"All set?"

"Yep!" she replied.

She climbed onto Eyota, settled herself into the saddle, and spurred the mare's sides. He rode after her, keeping his head down the entire way.

"My house is the one with the windmill," Nila said as they stood at the top of a hill.

She pointed at a beige house with white trimming. The size surprised him, having expected something smaller and more humble. It did, however, explain why she could afford to pay those men in New Adeline extra. She wanted him to follow her, but he couldn't. He got her this far and now that she was safe; it was time for them to part ways. There wasn't a reason to stay anymore. Deep down he had one reason, but he didn't want to think about it too much.

"I think it's time we part ways."

She spun around, wide-eyed. "But you're welcome to come to my house. My mother won't mind."

He shook his head. "I'm sorry, but it's best we part ways here. You have family matters to attend to and I have no business being there."

Crestfallen, she looked away. "I understand. Thank you for helping me when you didn't have to. It's the first time in years that someone has shown me genuine kindness."

"I'm just doing the right thing."

She nodded. "I guess I'll go now. Will you be okay?"

"I'm not the one who tangled with a cougar and a bear," he said with a slight smile.

She giggled. "Hey, they started it!" She looked down at her saddle horn. "I hope we see each other again someday. Maybe we'll cross paths out there?"

"Maybe."

He silently hoped they would.

"Goodbye, Charles."

She turned Eyota slowly, only glancing back once before spurring the mare. Horse and rider galloped away, becoming a speck on the plains. After a few minutes passed, Charles rode in the opposite direction.

He didn't know where he was going, he only knew he couldn't be anywhere near Blackwater. Before he knew it, there were two men wearing beige dusters on bay horses coming towards him. Seeing their badges flashing in the light, he realized they were lawmen. He could have turned in the opposite direction and ran for it. His horse was much faster than the nags they rode, but it could look suspicious if he tried. Instead, he kept his hat down and his eyes set on Falmouth's neck. When they passed, they hardly acknowledged him aside from one of the men muttering a slur under his breath. A twinge of anger flared in Charles but he quickly let it go, knowing there wasn't much he could do about it.

He rode until he came across a certain ranch and noticed an old friend leaning against the fence.

The moment Eyota's hooves touched the property she was immediately greeted by a small boy no older than seven. He jumped up and down and danced around the horse. Nila dismounted, her boot barely missing her brother's head. He was lighter-skinned than Nila with dark brown hair cut short and dark green eyes. He wore overalls, a white shirt, and his bare feet were covered in dust.

"Victoria, I missed you!" he cried.

She tousled the boy's hair. "I missed you, too, Geoffrey."

"Did you find Papa's body?"

"I did. He's in Blackwater now but it's up to Ecke to plan the funeral."

"Papa wouldn't like it if he heard you speaking your language."

"Our language," Nila corrected. "It's just as much your culture as it is mine. Now, where is she?" Looking at her brother's attire of nothing but dirty overalls, she became concerned. "Did you dress yourself?" This something else Michael would never have allowed. He always expected us to be cleanly dressed, or we got the switch.

"She's taking a nap."

"Lead the way, kid."

"We didn't think you were coming back."

"I didn't mean to keep you waiting, but I hit a few bumps in the road." She pointed to her arm in a sling.

The boy's eyes widened. "What happened?"

"I'll explain when we get inside."

The child hopped all the way to the green door, stopped to open it, and continued bouncing. Nila hitched Eyota by the shed before joining her brother inside. She dreaded her mother's reaction to her injury.

Her boots echoed in the spacious parol. The room felt lighter, brighter, and somehow cleaner now.

Laying on a light blue divan was a short, chubby Indian woman with her eyes closed. Mausi Daniels was dressed in a dull gray dress and her hair was pinned up in a bun. Even in her sleeping state, she could see the hardships etched on her mother's face.

Nila approached quietly and gave the woman a gentle nudge. "Ecke?" Nila breathed.

The woman's eyes fluttered open. Sitting up, she yawned, and rubbed her eyes. Her vision cleared and her eyes brightened at the sight of her daughter.

"Victoria… Nila!" she said, quickly rising from her chair. She threw her arms around Nila and squeezed tightly. The younger woman let out a yelp, making Nila's mother quickly pulled away. Her eyes moved to Nila's arm and gasped. "What happened to your arm? And your forehead, you have a goose egg!"

Nila laughed nervously. "I was, uh, almost cougar food, and bear food,... and hillbilly food."

"Oh no. Oh, Nila, why did I send you out there. I should have gone myself."

"It's okay, Ecke, I met someone on my journey who helped bring your husband back. If it wasn't for him, I would have died."

"Why isn't he with you now?"

"We had to part ways on the Great Plains. I thought he'd come over but I guess not." She tried hiding the disappointment in her voice. "It's for the best, though. I barely knew him." But my heart hurts when it has no business to.

Mausi placed a hand on her daughter's shoulder. "I'm glad you're home, regardless."

"Thanks. Now, about your husband. I sent him to the funeral home in town so you must go as soon as possible."

Mausi gave a weary sigh. "I was hoping to put that off."

Nila bit back a retort. "If you want, I can do it."

Her mother pulled her in for another hug and thanked her. Nila half-heartedly patted Mausi's arm.

"You don't have to go yet. First, I want to look at your arm and then put some food in you. You must be hungry after the journey you've had," Mausi said.

Nila agreed, only because she was starved after going all day without eating.

She winced as Mausi carefully removed the bandages. Seeing the damage from the cougar, her mother gasped. Nila looked away and rolled her eyes at her mother's overly dramatic reaction. Looking back at the wound, she was glad that it wasn't infected. Mausi rubbed a salve on the hole the cougar left behind.

"And you say the cougar did this?" Mausi asked.

"Yeah and the bear dislocated it."

"Oh my god, Nila, how did this happen?"

"I'm not sure you want to know."

Mausi shook her head. "I'm not sure either." Then added, "What will I do with you?"

Let me go… "I don't know."

"I worry about you. I know things haven't been easy since your father died-"

"And Screeching Eagle ran away," Nila added bitterly.

"Yes," Mausi whispered. "But you're still here and the one I worry about now."

Nila swallowed. She hadn't told her mother that she planned on leaving after the funeral. It was better to wait but at the same time, she had waited long enough. As she sat there on her bed, her body itched to get up and ride Eyota out of West Elizabeth, never to look back.

"Be still!" her mother scolded.

Nila stilled, unaware she was fidgeting.

"Sorry," she muttered.

With a clean bandage and the pain lessened, Nila followed Mausi out of the room and into the kitchen. A plate of roasted chicken, potatoes, and a basket of dinner rolls were placed in front of her. After eating nothing but canned vegetables and beef jerky, she was dying for a real meal.

She dived into her meal greedily, starting with the rolls. All her life she had an intense appetite which led her to become chubby as a child. As she progressed through her adolescent years she trimmed down, losing her baby fat. Her new curves had gained her unwanted attention from men, though.

She knew it was only a matter of time before her folks noticed this and married her off. She was thankful he died before that could happen.

Which reminded her, she had business to take care of in town.

The funeral was set to start at ten in the morning. Nila wanted it to start a lot sooner, as in yesterday. Better late than never, she supposed.

Mounting up, she rode for her house but passed it to visit a friend. Down the hill was the Birtwistle residence, a large red brick house. She stood there for a moment, wondering if she should walk up and knock on the door. The Birtwistles didn't like her, except for Pauline, her only friend in this pit of a town.

Mounting up, Nila walked Eyota to the other side of the house. If she knew her friend, Pauline was sitting on the balcony, fanning herself and drinking iced tea. She kept a lookout for her parents, hoping they wouldn't run her off again. Then Nila found her exactly where she assumed Pauline to be. A young woman of twenty was sitting on the balcony, fanning herself and sipping tea. She wore a light blue dress of the latest fashion and her blonde hair was partially pinned, while the rest hung down in the back in tight curls.

She smiled seeing her old friend.

"Pauline!" Nila called.

Pauline's eyes lazily drifted down in Nila's direction. Seeing the Creek woman, her eyes lit up.

"Victoria! I'll be right down, let me grab my umbrella!"

Nila fought back the cringe hearing her colonizer name. She'd have to tell her friend that she wasn't Victoria anymore.

Minutes later, Pauline Birtwistle was out the door, umbrella in hand. Nila had barely dismounted when Pauline wrapped her arms around her.

"Oh my gosh, I heard about Mister Daniels and your mother said you went to fetch his body. Victoria what were you thinking? Did you get that while you were away?" she asked pointed to Nila's arm.

"I was fine, nothing I couldn't handle. I'm glad he's gone."

Pauline nodded but didn't say more. She knew of what Michael Daniels was doing to that family, but she held her tongue. It wasn't something you talked about out in the open. It was only when it caused a problem for the public was anything ever done and even then; it was hardly effective. Too many times was Pauline told to mind her business and even her own father had struck her mother a few times in the past. Marriage was something the young woman dreaded.

"Yes, well, I worried about you. I just knew something bad would happen. Now let's get out of here. Father will be angry if he saw me leave without telling him."

Nila climbed back onto Eyota, then pulled Pauline onto the rump. The front door opened, Mr. Birtwistle stepped out, but Nila and Pauline were already racing away before he could call after them.

"I don't know why you continue to use this bulky horse!" Pauline said as Nila slowed Eyota to a trot. "My family is friends with the stable owner. I can get you a sleek and elegant horse at a discount."

This slightly offended Nila. "I love my bulky horse, thank you. Eyota might not be a thoroughbred, but she's loyal and strong. We have this special bond that you can only get when taming a wild horse."

Eyota was one of the few things Michael allowed her to have. He helped her rope and take the horse back home three years ago. They spent months training the animal. He even let her try water breaking, a technique her people once used. Now she and Eyota were inseparable.

"Yes, well, this is hardly a smooth ride."

Nila rolled her eyes. She loved Pauline, but her class and wealth ruled the girl whether Pauline wanted to admit it or not. It shocked Nila that Pauline wasn't married off by now, but for some reason, her father hadn't put too much pressure on her. Two years ago, she was engaged to a man from Saint Denis, but she broke the engagement off when she discovered how much she hated the south.

They made it to Quaker's Cove. Eyota slowed to a walk and Pauline's grip on Nila lessened.

"Are you still leaving Blackwater?" Pauline asked.

"I'm leaving the state entirely."

"Oh," she replied sadly. "I was hoping you'd change your mind. Are you going back to Oklahoma?"

Nila shook her head. "Someday but first, I want to travel, see new places, meet new people. I want to see other tribes and learn from them. Maybe, I'll find my brother, too. He was only Seventeen when he left. I hope he's okay."

"I'm sure he is. He was always a resourceful one. I wish I could come with you."

"Well, why don't you?"

Pauline sighed. "You know I can't."

Yes, you can. Please don't settle, Pauline. Please. She wanted to drill it into her friend's brain but she held her tongue. She knew Pauline was tied to social rules.

"I met someone interesting on my journey," Nila said, as she stopped the horse.

She dismounted and helped Pauline down.

"Oh, really?" her friend asked with a grin.

Nila blushed. "It's not like that!"

"Oh, but I can see it is like that. What's his name?"

"Charles. He's an Indian, too. Well half but still, he's handsome and strong." She bit her lip.

Pauline giggled. "Oh my, Victoria Tanner has a crush. Never thought I'd see that."

"Well, he's gone now," Nila said as they made their way to the boardwalk. "But I hope to see him again."

"How did you meet him?"

They leaned against the railing of the dock. "I'll tell you all about it."

Beecher's Hope had changed in only a year. Charles felt as though he'd been gone a lot longer than that. The crops were flourishing, and the livestock was healthy. He felt a bit of pride, knowing that he helped create this. There was an impulse to take John on that offer and stay here.

The scent of cedar was still fresh inside the Marstons' home. He didn't think he'd miss it this much. He followed John down the hall, passing Jack's room, then the living room. The aroma of meat quickly replaced the cedar and Charles was suddenly hungry.

"Abigail," John said poking his head into the kitchen. "Throw on another steak, we got company."

"Now who on earth came to see us?" Abigail said as Charles stepped into the kitchen. Seeing him, her eyes brightened. It surprised him to see a baby on her hip. He wasn't sure how old it was, though. "Charles, is it really you? What brings you around here?"

"I was passing through and thought I'd say hello." His eyes rested on the infant. "I see you have a new addition."

Abigail adjusted the baby higher on her hip. "This here is Annalise Hope. She's about three months old now."

She must have been in a family way when I left. It was for the best then, I would have taken up space.

"How have you been, Charles?" she asked. "Found yourself a lady yet?"

Charles felt embarrassment prickle in his body. This feeling became worse when Nila crossed his mind. "No. It almost happened once but her family didn't approve."

"That's a shame. She doesn't know what she's lost."

"I'm sure she regrets it," John added, placing a hand on Charles' shoulder.

He didn't want to think about this anymore. "Where's Jack and Uncle?"

"Jack is being Jack, hiding out in the barn and Uncle was shearing sheep last I checked, but knowing him, he gave up half-way to take a nap."

Charles gave a light chuckle. The more things change, the more they stay the same.

Abigail dropped the spoon to the side of the pot and held the baby out for John. "Here, she was just changed and needs some fresh air."

John awkwardly took his daughter. As he turned to go back out, he beckoned for Charles to follow. The warm air carried a fresh scent of redwoods and evergreen down from Tall Trees. He looked back, scanning for any signs of Skinners out of habit.

"Any more trouble from the Skinners?" Charles asked.

John stopped at the corral and leaned against it. "Not since they hung both the brothers. That wasn't long after Micah. There were some stragglers here and there but they eventually left the territory. I thought Murfrees were bad, but the Skinners changed my mind quickly."

Charles nodded in agreement.

At the mention of Murfrees, he thought of Nila once again and missed her. It was a silly feeling. After all, he only knew her for two days.

"Are you still exploring the territories?"

"No," John said. "Not since Abigail told me she was expecting. I couldn't bring myself to leave her side." There was a flash of guilt in his eyes. "I was overjoyed when she told me about Annalise but with Jack I ran."

"It was a different period in your life. You've grown since then."

"Maybe you're right. There is something else that's bothering me though."

Charles leaned against the corral next to John. "What's that?"

"I think I'm being watched."

He cocked a brow. "Really?"

"Last month, while me and Uncle took the sheep out to graze, I came across a man standing on the hill that overlooks our ranch. When I confronted him he stammered out this half-assed excuse he was lost. He hurried out of there before I could get more information"

"That is strange."

"And just the other day, Abigail was in town and she swore someone was followin' her. I don't know but I'm startin' to think someone might be watching us."

Charles looked to the hill that overlooked Beecher's Hope. He saw nothing, but that didn't mean something was out there.

"We could look around for clues."

John shook his head. "I already checked and found nothin'. Whoever they are probably giving up. Abigail is worried, but I told her not to. She already has a lot on her mind and doesn't need any more worries."

The barn door opened, interrupting their hushed conversation. A lanky boy with dark brown hair slipped out between the doors and looked around. He started creeping towards the house with a book tucked under his arm.

"Jack, what are you doin', boy?" John called out.

Jack froze, then slowly turned to face his father. "Uh, nothin', sir. Just, um, doin' barn… stuff."

John eyed the book. "Oh, really?"

The teen rolled his eyes and sighed. "Fine, I was readin' okay? But I worked really hard today and the last chapter left off on a cliffhanger and I've been dyin' to know what happens next."

John chuckled softly. "Okay, okay, you earned that. Just let me know next time, alright?"

The boy smiled and nodded. "Hey, is that Charles?"

"Hello, Jack!" Charles greeted. It amazed him at how tall the boy had grown in a year.

"Where's Uncle, boy?" John asked Jack.

Jack looked around. "Uh, I'm not sure. I saw him with a bottle of whiskey and he told me to mind my business."

John sighed in frustration. "Take your sister and head inside, Jack. We'll find that old bastard."

"Ma isn't gonna like that you cussed in front of Annalise again."

Charles thought he saw John flinch at that.

"Right…"

With the children inside, John and Charles began their search around the property.

"You'll smell him before you see him," John said.

"Oh, believe me, I know."

They found Uncle in the tool shed passed out drunk. He'd broken into the stash of beer again. John gave an exasperated sigh and kicked the old man in the leg.

"Get up, you useless old man," John growled.

Uncle's eyes flew open, he gave a snort and looked around frantically. Looking up at John, Uncle's eyes narrowed.

"Is that any way to treat the elderly?"

"There's a difference between the elderly and the old. Now get the hell up!"

"You're a rotten man, John Marston!"

"Don't I know it? Now get up!"

Uncle did as he was told, grumbling the entire time. He dusted off his pants and held his angry gaze at John. For a moment, Charles thought John would belt the old man. Uncle's eyes flicked to Charles, and they lit up.

"Charles, is that you?" Uncle asked, grinning.

"It is."

"You finally come back to stay?"

"Just passing through actually."

"Ah, well, that's okay." He looked back at John. "What's fer dinner, I'm starvin'!"

"I don't think you deserve any food after all the beer you drank."

Uncle laughed and marched passed John. "I hope it's edible."

The steak was tough and dry, forcing Charles to take multiple sips of water to get it down. The mashed potatoes were good, but the gravy was gritty and over salted. Abigail's cooking had improved little since he left. Although, it was better than anything Pearson could have made.

He felt bad about eating dinner with the family knowing he was leaving tomorrow. After much pestering from Abigail, Charles agreed to stay the night, sharing the attic with Uncle. He wasn't fond of that idea, though.

"So how's the food?" Abigail asked.

"It's… great," Charles lied.

She smiled. "I'm glad you like it."

Beside him, Jack snickered. Charles cleared his throat to counter the laughter welling up inside him.

"How was Canada?" Uncle asked.

Charles set his fork down, wondering what to tell them. "It's different. I stayed with the Wapiti people for a while, then I worked for a Métis family and that didn't work out. I've spent the last six months in the US." He wondered if he should tell them about Nila. "A few days ago I met a Creek woman. She needed my help, and that's why I'm here."

"Where is she?" John asked.

"With her family. I parted ways with her once we made to the Plains."

Guilt returned as he thought back to the sadness in her eyes.

"What's a Creek?" Jack asked.

"A southwestern tribe," John replied.

"Southeastern," Uncle corrected. "They like stayin' by the water, hence their name. The government forced some of them to move to Oklahoma."

"Well, aren't you a genius," John grumbled.

"That's where she's from," Charles said.

"She's a long way from home," Uncle pointed out.

"I think most Indians feel that way," said Charles. Where's my home supposed to be? What about my tribe, my clan? This though bothers me daily...

"What's she like?" Abigail asked.

Charles picked at his potatoes with his fork. "She's stubborn and… odd. She wants to travel the country and see new places. There's a timidness to her too. She tries hiding it, but I can see it when speaking with strangers."

Abigail looked concerned. "How old is she?"

"I think she's in her twenties. I'm not sure."

"How skilled is she?"

"She claims she can use a gun and hunt, but she went hunting with me and it almost ended in her becoming the bear's next meal." He explained how he found her and talked about her injuries. Guilt crept into him again as he realized it made her sound as though she were incompetent.

When he finished his story, Abigail studied him for a moment and said, "It sounds like she'll need a travelin' companion. Someone big and strong to look out for her." She hid her smile by taking a sip of water, but he could see the amusement glittering in her eyes.

Charles squirmed internally. He knew what she was getting at. "I'm going to visit her in a few days. Maybe I can convince her to stay with her family."

"Good luck with that," John said.

"This girl sounds like her mind is made up."

Abigail was right. If Nila truly was dead set on leaving, it would be dangerous for her to go at it alone, whether she had the skills or not.

I can't let her do this alone...

It was officially over. The man who tormented her and left her with invisible scars was finally in the ground. A weight she hadn't known she was carrying finally left her shoulders.

She closed her eyes, letting the sun warm her face. This was supposed to be a day when the clouds opened up and let it pour but instead, the sun was shining bright and not a cloud in the sky.

As she walked away from the cemetery, she didn't look back and she didn't feel an ounce of sadness. On the outside, she did her best to comfort her family but on the inside; she jumped for joy. Some would say she was awful for celebrating a person's death. Some would call her cold-hearted and selfish. Those people however never witness Micheal Daniels' violent temper, never heard the horrible names he called his family, nor did they see the emotional damage he caused.

"I'm tired!" Geoffrey whined.

"So am I," Mausi admitted. "How about we all go home and take a nap?"

The last thing Nila wanted was sleep. She had business to take care of.

"But I'm not sleepy!" Geoffrey said.

"You just said you were tired," said Nila.

"Yeah, but I'm not sleepy."

She rolled her eyes.

Nila stopped the wagon in front of the house and helped her mother and brother down. Geoffrey skipped up to the house, with Mausi and Nila slowly trailing behind him. Glancing at her mother, she could see the dark circles under her eyes.

"How are you feeling?" Nila asked.

Mausi sighed. "Exhausted."

"Lay down, I'll keep Geoffrey entertained."

She checked the time on her watch. It was a quarter until three, but it felt much later.

Her brother was in his room digging through his toy box. Nila stood in the doorway watching him curiously.

"What are you doing?" she asked.

"Looking for my horses," he replied, still digging.

"Aren't you sleepy?"

"Yeah, but I wanna play outside."

I'm not going to the lake anytime soon. Unless...

"Geoff, would you like to go for a ride?"

The boy shut his toy box and spun around to face Nila. "Oh boy, that sounds fun!"

Nila giggled. "Alright, let's go, but don't tell mother where we went. Got it?"

He nodded enthusiastically.

Minutes later the two siblings were riding for the lake. Nila held Geoffrey close as she spurred Eyota into a full gallop. Geoffrey squealed with delight and begged Nila to go faster.

"You don't want to ride your horse too hard or you could hurt them."

"Papa rode his horses like that."

Yes, I know exactly how your father treated things he saw beneath him. "I'm sorry, but he was wrong."

"I know," the boy whispered. "Victoria, were you sad when your papa died?"

Pain stabbed at her chest. "Yes, I still miss him."

"I miss my papa."

Guilt replaced her own heartache. She knew there would be consequences for her actions but she never thought about how it would affect her family, especially Geoffrey.

I'm sorry you're hurting, little brother, but I hope one day you'll understand I did this to benefit you in the long run. It will hurt for a while, but I couldn't live with myself knowing that man was leaving a negative impact on your wellbeing and tainting your soul.

"What will happen now?" Geoffrey asked.

Nila slowed Eyota to a trot. "Well… I'm not sure."

She suddenly worried about how he would react to her leaving.

Music played faintly, showing they were drawing near. She saw the red wagon and the Romani woman dancing to the tune. As they came closer, Nila slowed the horse to a stop.

"Wait here," Nila said to Geoffrey.

"Aw, why can't I come?"

"Because I'm talking business with her."

"Who is she?"

"I'll tell you later. Keep Eyota company."

Madam Nazar was a strange woman who arrived into town a few weeks ago. Michael had forbidden them to interact with her, but Nila was curious about the woman. One evening, she left, saying she was going for a ride and visited Nazar.

The two conversed for hours and Nila found herself drawn to the woman by the end of their meeting. What was it like to be free as Madam Nazar was? To visit new places and meet interesting people? An ache she tried to bury and not think about came to the surface. As she walked away from the red wagon, she knew she had to get away and when she came home late in the evening; it strengthened her desire.

Michael was waiting on her when she got home. He stared at her with a hateful gleam in his eye. Oh, how she hated that stare. It sent her heart racing and put her nerves on edge. She wanted to crawl away and hide with the way he looked at her. She took a breath to calm her nerves and walked up to the house.

"Where were you?" he growled.

She swallowed down her fear, cursing herself for allowing such an emotion to take hold. "I was out for a ride along the lake."

"You're lying."

She found her voice had vanished. What was she going to do now? "I-I…" she squeaked out.

"Answer me! Where were you?" Michael roared.

Mausi had stepped out at that moment, her eyes reflecting her own fear. "Michael, please lower your voice."

"Stay out of this!"

"Michael, stop this, she has caused no harm."

"She was down by the water, talking to that gypsy."

"She won't do it again, I promise," Mausi cried.

Hearing her mother's pathetic tone sent a fiery hot rage through Nila. If her mother couldn't grow a spine and defend this family, then it was up to her. Her body shook, not from fear this time but from anger. Her heart drummed wildly in her ears and she could barely hear them fighting. She couldn't take this anymore, she had to find her voice.

"Just shut up," Nila snarled. "Stop pretending you're my father because you will never take his place. He was a better man than you'll ever be, you white devil!"

His belt slid out of the loops of his pants and quickly closed in the space between them. Before she could move, he had her by a fist full of hair.

"If you're going to act like a child, I'll treat you like one!" he said in her ear.

Nila shrieked in terror as his fist twisted, tugging on the scalp. She squirmed and kicked at him, hoping to free herself somehow, but his grip only tightened. With a hard shove, she was on the ground. When she tried crawling away, his belt came down, striking her left thigh. She cried out and rolled onto her back. Another blow struck her across the stomach. She rolled to her side and curled up in a ball, protecting her face as hard blows came down, each one worse than the last. He stayed mostly around her thighs, back, and rear, but it felt as though her entire body was on fire. She squeezed her eyes shut as hot tears trickled down her face and soaked into the soil. There was no way of knowing how long it continued but eventually her mind left and pretended it was somewhere else. When it was over, Michael stood over her, panting; his energy spent. Somewhere, she heard Mausi and Geoffrey crying but she couldn't bring herself to look at them.

He screamed at her to get up. After much prodding, he gave up and walked back inside.

She didn't move for the longest and sobbed loud enough that she guessed half of Blackwater could hear her. When she was cried out, and no more tears would flow, numbness took over. Mausi begged her to come inside, but Nila couldn't acknowledge her. Like Michael, her mother gave up. She lay there for hours, ignoring the cold zapping her warmth. Eventually, she rolled onto her back and watched the stars glittering above. As she lay there, she thought of how she could rid the entire family of this man and there was only one person who could help her.

A shudder passed through Nila as the memory faded. The bruises she received were gone for the most part. All that were left were jaundice blotches.

"Ah, my Indigenous friend has returned," Madam Nazar purred.

Nila smiled. "Hello, Madam Nazar. I came to tell you, your medicine worked and my ailment is cured."

The Romani woman raised a brow. Nila motioned behind her and Nazar looked over Nila's shoulder. Seeing the boy, Nazar's eyes told Nila she understood.

"I am glad to hear. I worried when I didn't see you for days."

"You could say I was very sick."

"I see. Have you decided to come work for me?"

Nila shook her head. "I don't have what it takes to be a collector."

"I understand."

She looked over her shoulder to make sure Geoffrey was okay before turning back to Nazar. "I should be going. I need to have a long talk with my family."

"Farewell, Miss Tanner. I hope we meet again."

Nila turned away, only looking back to wave goodbye. Geoffrey eyed the woman with curiosity.

"Don't stare, it's not polite," Nila whispered to her brother.

She climbed onto Eyota and turned the horse back into the direction of home. When they arrived at the house, it was close to dinnertime and Geoffrey's eyes were growing heavy. Maybe she should have made him take a nap earlier.

The aroma of her mother's cooking filled the kitchen, making her mouth water. She came up beside her mother, rolled up her sleeves, and rinsed her hands.

"I hope you're hungry," her mother said.

"I'm famished."

"I'm making vegetable soup."

"Sounds good."

Hunger pains stabbed at her belly. She had not eaten since the funeral.

"Would you mind fixing some tea?" Mausi asked.

Grabbing the kettle, she filled it with water, and placed it on the stove beside the soup. She placed two cups and the sugar cubes on the table then began setting the table. Out of habit, she placed a fourth plate at the head of the table. She stared down at, as a mix of emotions swept over her. She immediately picked up the plate and placed it back in the cabinet.

Nila looked over her shoulder and watched her mother move around the kitchen. She seemed so content that Nila didn't want to break the news to her. It had to be done though. She couldn't put it off anymore.

"Ecke, we need to talk."

Mausi covered the soup and turned to face her daughter. "What is it?"

"You know I'm no longer a child. In fact, I'm old enough to take a husband. So, I think it's time I left home." There she'd said.

Her mother's eyes glistened. "But things are better. Why do you want to leave now?"

"Because I don't have to shield Geoffrey from him anymore. I'm finally free."

"I don't want you to go," Mausi murmured.

"I know, but I'm suffocating. I want to live my own life and see the country or at least go where I can."

The older woman sighed and turned away. "I figured this day would come."

"I'm sorry but…" her voice trailed. What else could she say?

They ate dinner in silence. Geoffrey didn't join them as he had fallen asleep shortly after returning home from their ride. Normally, Mausi would have woken him but after their long day, she left him alone.

When dinner was over, mother and daughter spent time in the parlor. They spoke of the past before her father died and Nila talked about the latest book she read. They tried to be happy, at least for the night. The topic of leaving never came up again.

Later, after her mother went to bed, Nila stepped out on the back porch and watched the stars. She wondered if her brother was out there, doing the same. Did he think about her often? Did he go back to Oklahoma?

Reaching into her breast pocket, she took out a cigarette pack. She never tried tobacco before and decided it wouldn't hurt to start now. Striking a match, she lit a cigarette and took a puff. The moment the smoke enter her body, her mouth and throat burned. She held the cigarette away from herself as she coughed and fought for air. This was one of the worst ideas she'd ever made.

I'm never trying that again...

Hoofbeats sounded in the distance. Nila looked out into the darkness, trying to catch a glance at whoever was out there. Her hand instinctively drifted to her revolver.

"Who's out there?" she demanded.

The hoofbeats stopped, and a horse gave a snort.

"It's just me," a familiar voice called.

Relief washed over her. "Charles?"

He stepped into the light and seemed smaller from where she was standing.

"What are you doing out here? Spying on me?" she teased.

"Actually, I was riding around when I saw you outside. I thought I'd check on you and make sure you're okay."

Her stomach did flips. Did he really care about her wellbeing?

"I'm fine," she replied. "Well, actually I'm feeling down."

"About your step-father?"

"No, I told my ecke over dinner that I was leaving in the morning. She accepted it but I can tell she's hurt."

Charles was closer to the house now. Nila leaned in so she could speak in a softer tone.

"Are you sure you want to do that? The world is dangerous."

"I know that but I want to find out for myself."

His eyes flicked to her arm. "You should wait until that heals."

"My whole life is full of waiting. My time is now."

His shoulders sagged, and he crossed his arms. "You're really dead set on this, aren't you?"

She nodded.

"Would you like a companion?"

Internally she did flips and jumps for joy. She wanted to play it cool, but she found herself grinning, anyway.

"Of course! I think we'll make a great pair."

He gave her a faint smile and said, "Then I'll see you in the morning."

"Great! Meet me by the Montana Ford at dawn."

Every inch of her was giddy with excitement and anticipation. Leaving home felt less scary.

"I should go," Charles said.

"You don't have to." She tried hiding the disappointment in her voice.

"It's late and we have a long journey ahead. Where are we going anyway?"

She shrugged. "I dunno. I thought maybe New Austin? Maybe beyond that?"

"If that's where you want to go. Well, goodnight, Nila."

"Goodnight, Charles."

He disappeared back into the darkness. Moments later, she heard a horse whinny and gallop away. When she was certain he was gone, she walked back inside but didn't go to bed. How could she when she was too excited about her journey?

The next morning, Nila stood in the front yard with her family. Mausi hugged her tightly enough that Nila choked on her rose water. When her mother let go, Nila bent down and scooped Geoffrey in her arms. The boy was pouting and fighting back the tears welling in his eyes. Nila's heart broke seeing his sorrow. She never wanted to hurt him. She hoped he wouldn't hold it against her.

"Don't worry, Geoff, I'll come back soon enough and when I do, I'll have a present for you."

His eyes brightened. "Really? What kind of present?"

She giggled. "That's a surprise."

He wiped his eyes and grinned. "I can't wait!"

Behind them, the sky was fading from a dark blue to a mixture of pink and orange. Eyota whinnied and stomped her hooves. It was time to go. She set Geoffrey down and tousled his hair.

"Cehecarēs," Nila said to Mausi.

"What does that mean?" Geoff asked.

"It means we will see each other again," Mausi answered.

When I come back, I'll teach you everything my father taught me since your own denied me of that right.

"I need to get going. Eyota is getting impatient."

As she climbed onto her silver Mustang, her mother held out a paper bag.

"In case you get hungry."

Nila smiled gratefully at Mausi and accepted the sack. Spurring Eyota, the Mustang took off at lightning speed. She turned back to wave goodbye one last time before she disappeared over the hill.

After so many years of feeling trapped, she was finally free.

Ecke = mother, pronounce Ech-key

Mausi = Plucks Petals, pronounced Mah-oosi

If I'm wrong on the pronunciations, please let me know. I'm still learning my language ^^