Truly Magnificent
Fandom: Magnificent 7
Warning #1: I do not claim to speak the languages I've used in this fic. All mistakes are mine...though not intentional.
Warning #2: I am aware Vin lived with the Comanche and the Kiowa. However, I couldn't find a Comanche-English or Kiowa-English dictionary. But I did find a rather extensive Cheyenne-English one, so that's what I used. The other stuff is Manx Gaelic. I've included all the translations in parentheses next to the word or sentence.
Warning #3: This is my first attempt at writing an entire fic in the 1st person. If you find any errors DON'T TELL ME! Just pretend I did it right! LOL!
Warning #4: Contains spanking as a form of discipline- If that's not your thing, hit the delete key. You have been warned!!
Warning #5: There is A LOT of bad language in this fic.
Note: The beginning of the story is set in the future. PLEASE don't let that turn you off...the rest of if centers in the Old West!
And a BIG thanks to my bestest buddy...Victory! Due to the length of this fic, I believe we're even as far at # of stories go, hmmm? LOL!
Summary: A young thief ends up under the Seven's protection- though not by choice!
The Altec System- 2170
"True McCallan." The voice called.
I stood up and moved to the cell opening. The guards secured my hands and pushed me into the chamber. I felt the Evaluator's eyes on me as the Detainer read my offense.
"True McCallan. Age 9. Charged with Border Running and illegal trade with the Adara."
"Is she marked?"
"Yes." The Detainer turned me around so my back was facing the Evaluator. I tried to cover my marking, but my clan outfit consisted of a black tank style half top covered by a black long sleeved vest that stopped at my midriff. Definitely not long enough to reach the small of my back.
The Evaluator took a close look. "Ahh, I knew I recognized your name. If my memory serves me correctly, the McCallan clan is renegade. And you, child, are the one with the gift."
I looked up in surprise. How in the hell did they find that out? "I don't know what your talkin' 'bout."
"Oh, I think you do." He went over to the desk and picked up a thick file. "See this? This is everything we have on you." He opened it and started reading. "You are an Oalyssagh (Mystic) with the ability to control nature and the elements by summoning the spirits. Your brother, Kieran was killed trying to protect you and your gift. You are the youngest and best Runner in the sector. Your offense sheet is the size of the Garon system, mostly for Running, Breaking and Entering, and Theft... Shall I go on?"
"No. Just get ta the point asshole."
"You know, you really should show more respect for those in authority."
"Fuck you." I answered hotly.
*SLAP* The Evaluator slapped my face hard enough to knock me down. I slowly stood up and angrily brushed the tears from my eyes.
"You'll keep a civil tongue in your head." He straightened his tunic. "Now, I have a proposal for you."
"Yeah, like I'll accept it." I retorted.
"We are offering you the chance to avoid punishment and have all traces of your brands removed." He said enticingly.
"How come ya never offered this b'fore?"
"Because we just recently found out you're an Oalyssagh."
I didn't like where this conversation was going. "What would I have ta do?" I asked warily.
"Work for us."
"No way! Besides I don't ..."
The Evaluator cut me off. "I am aware you do not have control over your gift, but that's only a minor inconvenience. Unlike your clan, we have the means to help you. All you need is the proper training and you'll be one of the most powerful Oalyssagh's this world's ever witnessed."
"I don't give a flying fuck about proper training or being the most powerful Oalyssagh. I know ya would make me help ya destroy your enemies, which would include my clan, and I will NEVER use my gift in that way."
The Evaluator's eyes turned to steel. "I see. Well then, since you refuse to cooperate, we'll move on to your Evaluation."
"'Bout fuckin' time." I mumbled.
"Since you have such an extensive list of offenses, I'm assuming you've been branded. Let's have a look."
He roughly pushed my head down and moved the hair away from my neck. "My, my, you've been busy, haven't you? Let's see, you've been branded once for Breaking and Entering, once for Theft, once for Assault and twice for Border Running. That would make this your 3rd running offense."
I pulled my head out of his grasp. "Yep." I said arrogantly.
"It says here we put a Proximity Collar on you after your second offense to alert us of your movements near the Compound boundaries. I don't see it on you. How did you remove it?"
I gave him a smug smile. "I figured out the frequency code an broke the seal. Did it the 1st day I had it on too. Ya really should get better equipment." I heard the Detainer's in the chamber snicker.
"As I'm sure you are aware, I can sentence you to death for removing the collar and for your 3rd offense. However, I'm aware death is something you would welcome since it would allow you to reunite with your brother in the spirit world. So, " He grinned wickedly. "I think I have a more suitable punishment...at least for a wild spirit like yours. I am sentencing you to undergo the Traa Eebyrrtys."
It took me a second to realize what he said. "The Traa Eebyrrtys! I thought time transportation was outlawed in this system!"
"It is...or at least was until the compound Overseers paid off the correct people to have it reinstated."
Shit. I am sooo fucked.
"Now, you will be sent back to Earth's 19th century and be kept in what they called a workhouse. It was a place they sent unruly children who could not follow the law. You will be subjected to harsh conditions and hard labor.
"I am also sentencing you to have a growth inhibitor implanted. Since you have shown us how adept you are at breaching our technology programs, it will not be implanted in it usual place. The injection will occur while you are in stasis so its location will be unknown to you and you will not be able to disarm and remove it.
"The Observers will be there to make sure you follow the Traa Eebyrrtys Reill (Code). You are forbidden to leave the workhouse or tell anyone about your life before it. If you are found violating the Reill, you will be caught and forced to endure a slow agonizing death." The Evaluator finished with my sentencing and gave me a terse smile. " Guards! Take her to the Travel Stasis Chamber. "
Oh, this really sucks. I'm like sooo not into hard labor. And can you believe it...9 years old forever! No way! I saw the guards coming toward me an tried to run for it, but they were too fast. They grabbed my arms and hauled me out of the arena.
Earth- 1872
When I arrived at the workhouse, I immediately looked for an escape route. There was absolutely no way I was going to stay there. I managed to get a quick look at the locking mechanism on the gate and smiled. It was going to be a piece a cake getting out of here.
I knew the Observers would be keeping a close eye on me, so I waited a few weeks...a few very loooog weeks...before I made my move. When the opportunity came, I slipped outside and quietly moved to the gate. Luckily, the Detainer who readied me in the Stasis Chamber didn't remove the pouch I had hidden in my vest.
I rummaged around in it until I found my pliable disc. I probably could've picked the lock the normal way, but I stole the disc just before I was caught and I wanted to try it out. I slipped it in into the keyhole, and flicked the switch. After a few seconds, I felt it harden and turned it in the lock. With a satisfying 'click', I pushed the gate open, flicked the switch off and disappeared into the shadows.
The first thing I did once I got far enough away from the workhouse to be safe was search for some clean clothes. I came across a house on the outskirts of town and saw some hanging outside. I skipped over the torture devices, otherwise know as dresses, and stole a pair of pants and a shirt. I decided I better disguise myself as a boy so it would be harder for the Observers to find me, so I stole a hat as well. I quickly changed, tucked my hair up under my hat and headed out of town.
By daylight, I had made it to the next town over. I realized early on that walking was just not my thing, so I decided to find someone willing to give me a ride. Luckily, I overheard a man telling his wife that they would pick up more supplies at their next stop, a town called Four Corners.
I put on my most pathetic face and headed over to their wagon. "Mister?"
"What do ya want?"
"I couldn't help overhearin' that ya were headed towards Four Corners. I was wonderin' if ya might let me ride with ya."
"No." The man said and started loading his wagon.
"Please mister," I said willing the tears into my eyes. "My parents were killed an I'm headin' ta Four Corners ta meet my brother. I'm so tired from walkin'."
"I said no, now git."
"Please, he's the only family I have left. I have ta get ta him." The tears were streaming down my face now.
"Hiram!" A stout woman said as she came from the back of the wagon. She headed over to me and pulled me into a stifling hug. "Oh, ya poor child. Don't ya listen ta him none. Go on an git in the wagon. We'll take ya ta your brother."
"You will?" I wiped the tears from my eyes. "Thank you." I gave myself a mental high-five... damn, I'm good!
We reached the town limits about 2 hours later. "There ya go child." The woman said as she helped me off the wagon. "Now, ya go find your brother. Ya hear?" I nodded. She climbed back onto the seat. "Good luck."
I had been in Four Corners for a few hours when my stomach reminded me I hadn't eaten in a while. I needed money, fast. I was an accomplished thief, so I watched the boardwalk in front of the general store for an easy target...it didn't take long. As the old man ambled down the walk, I swooped in, took the money he had so carelessly put into his open pocket and disappeared into the store.
Chris Larabee stepped out of the Saloon to get some fresh air. He was about to light his cheroot, when he saw a child bump into old Jonas Taylor and walk away with his wallet. He watched as the boy counted the money then head into the store. He sighed, stuffed his cheroot back into his pocket and made his way over to the general store.
I was just about to pay for my purchases (well, at least some of them...hey I am a thief after all!) when someone grabbed my wrist. I looked up and saw a man in black. He had the coldest look I'd ever seen directed at me.
"Hold it." He said in a quiet, dangerous voice. "I believe you have some items that don't belong to you, including the coins in your hand."
"I don't know what you're talkin' 'bout mister. My pa gave me this money ta get some food for our trip." My voice almost quavered, but I managed to keep it steady. Damn, this man unnerved me.
"Did he? Well then, I'd like to talk to him. Where is he?"
"Uhh...he's in the saloon."
Chris looked at the boy and gave a feral grin. "Son, I just left the saloon. No one in there but my friends. Want to try again?"
Shit. I was beginning to panic. I couldn't think with the man looking at me like that. So, I did the only thing I could think of... I kicked him in the shin and took off running. I reached the door, turned left out of the store and sprinted down the boardwalk.
Next thing I know, I was grabbed from behind and lifted off the ground.
"Whoa there. Where ya think yer goin'?" My captor said. I struggled to get out of his grasp, but he countered every move with one of his own.
"Settle down."
I kicked out and managed to get him in the upper leg. The man swore and tightened his hold. "Hena'háanehe! (That's enough!)." He said angrily. I froze. How in the hell did he know that language? Only the people in my visions and dreams spoke it. I didn't have chance to ask because I suddenly found myself being lifted and thrown over his shoulder.
When he put me down, I was in the jailhouse standing in front of the man in black. Shit, just my luck... they're fucking Marshalls. I really started to panic then. I knew if I were put in jail, the Observers wouldn't have a problem finding me. I fought to get free, but couldn't shake the hold he had on my arms. The man who brought me in here came to my side. "Hámêstoo'êstse ..."
The man in black smiled. "English please."
"Sorry, I forgot I wasn't dealin' with children at th' village. I said..."
"Sit down." I finished for him. Both men looked at me in surprise. I saw the question in their eyes. "Learned the language a while back." I evaded and sat down. The hopelessness of my situation hit me then and I was horrified to feel my eyes well up with tears.
I guess the man in black saw them, because the hard look on his face seemed to soften little as he sat down across from me. "My name's Chris and that's Vin. What's yours?"
Uh. Oh. Think fast True, real fast. "Canyon." I mumbled, using my best friend's name.
"Canyon?" Chris repeated as if he didn't believe me. I nodded. "How old are you?"
"9." I looked up at them. Hey, there wasn't a star on his or Vin's shirt. "Are you guys Marshall's? "
"Nope. Jist paid ta keep the town safe." Vin answered.
I sighed in relief. That meant he couldn't put me in jail.
"But that don't mean we cain't put ya in jail, so's ya'd be smart ta answer our questions."
My head snapped up. How the hell did he do that?
"Now, why were you stealing from the general store?" Chris asked. I opened my mouth to deny his accusation, but he placed his hand over it. "Don't tell me you weren't. I saw you do it." He said sternly.
Man, could this day get any worse. I knew if I told them I stole, they'd put me in jail. But if I didn't tell them what they wanted to hear, they'd probably put me there anyway. I'd be damned if I did or damned if I didn't.
"I was hungry." I answered quietly.
"Where are your folks?"
"Don't got any."
"Runaway?"
"Could say that."
"From where?"
"I ain't tellin' ya." I was getting real nervous. I knew the Observers were looking for me and I'd be unable to run if I was sitting in a jail cell. The fear of getting caught caused my 9-year-old mouth to kick into overdrive. "Look, if I don't get out of here, they'll find me. If they find me, they'll kill me. I'll give everythin' back. Just please, let me go."
"Who's after ya? Who's gonna kill ya?" Vin asked.
I stood up. "I can't tell ya. Please, just let me go an I'll disappear. I'll never come back. I swear. Please?" I pleaded. Chris grabbed my arms, pushed me back into the chair and held me there.
"If you think we're gonna let a 9 year old boy..."
I was desperately trying to get out of his grasp when my day continued it's downward spiral into hell. I was just about to slip under his arm to try to break his hold when I felt my hat fall off and my hair cascaded down onto my shoulders. Chris didn't miss a beat.
"...9 year old girl, go off on her own with people chasing her trying to kill her, you've got another thing coming." He sat back down. "Now, what's your real name? And I better tell you, if you lie to me you'll get a nice view of the floorboards as I tan your hide."
I stepped back a little, slightly intimidated. "True."
"True?" Chris asked disbelievingly.
"Uh-huh." I knew the look he was giving me...it was the same one my brother used to get just before I found myself over his knee. "That's my name, I swear! "
"Okay True," Chris said, emphasizing my name, "two things are gonna happen. First, you're gonna give the stuff you stole back to Mrs. Potter and return Mr. Taylor's money to him. Then we're gonna meet up with the rest of our friends and decide what to do with you."
Who the hell did this man think he was? No one ordered me around. "All ya gotta do is leave me go." I said petulantly.
Chris gave me a stern glare. "Don't think so. Now, are you gonna to do as I say, or do I have to blister your backside first?"
"No, that's definitely not necessary." I said emphatically. " I'll take the shit back."
"Watch your mouth." Chris said disapprovingly and took my hand. "Let's go."
Vin followed us to the door. "I'll meet ya at th' saloon when yer done."
Chris ushered me in front of him as we entered the general store. As we made our way over to the counter, he grabbed my arm and turned me to face him.
"I know you took more that what I saw you take so I expect you to give *everything* back. You're to apologize to Mrs. Potter for stealing and tell her you'll take whatever punishment she sees fit to give you. And you will be respectful towards her. That means you are to say 'yes, ma'am' or 'no, ma'am' when you answer her questions. Got it?"
I nodded my head sullenly. I had no idea why I was even listening to this man... beside the fact that he that other fella scared the hell out of me...and I was getting real tired of him telling me what to do.
"The correct answer is yes sir."
"Yes, SIR." I replied sarcastically. I know, I know... that wasn't the smartest thing to say, but it was just too easy...I couldn't help myself. I waited for him to say something in response, but he remained quiet. Instead, he turned me sideways and delivered a stinging swat to my backside.
"OW!" I said as I rubbed the sting away.
"Keep it up and you'll be a very sorry little girl." He promised. "Now, get to it."
I slowly walked over to the counter and waited for the woman behind it to notice me.
"What can I do for you young lady?"
I took all the stuff I had taken out of their hiding places on my body and placed them on the counter. I noticed Chris's eyebrow rise up when he saw the amount of stuff I managed to take.
"What?" I asked innocently. Chris shook his head at me and sighed. He gave me a look that told me to quit stalling. I turned back to the lady.
"I apologize for stealin' this stuff from your store an will accept any punishment ya see fit ta give me." I said repeating Chris's words exactly. I could tell from the expression on his face that he didn't find it amusing.
"I didn't even know she took anything from here. I thought she just stole someone's money." Mrs. Potter said, her confusion evident in her voice. "Can I assume that you dealt with the situation?"
Chris nodded. "Yes, ma'am I did. True won't be stealing anything else."
"In that case, I'll let it go. But hear me now young lady, if you do it again you won't get off so easy, understand?
"Yeah, yeah, I got it." I replied with all the attitude I could muster.
"True!"
I looked up. Uh, oh...
"Sorry." I said softly. I could sense Chris was still lookin' at me so I added. "Ma'am."
Chris threw Mrs. Potter an apologetic look and took my hand. "Let's go. You've got one more apology to make, and it better not be anything like I just saw or you'll find yourself over my knee."
We looked for the old man I stole from, but couldn't find him, so Chris took me to the saloon. Before we went in, he crouched down, grabbed my shoulders, and looked me straight in the eye.
"The saloon is off limits to you unless me or one of the men you are about to meet are with you and say you can go in. If you're caught in here at any other time, you won't sit comfortably for few days. Are we clear?"
Man, what is it with this guy and spanking? That's like the 4th time he's threatened me...Sheese! From the look he was giving me, I knew he was waiting for an answer. "Yes sir."
Chris steered me through the batwing doors. Once my eyes adjusted to the dim room, I saw Vin and a bunch of men sitting at a table in the corner.
"Boys."
"Who is this exquisite young woman you have ushered into our presence?" Ezra asked.
Ugh, gag me! I looked over at the man and was about to introduce him to a new hand gesture I learned at the Compound, when I heard Vin clear his throat. I glanced up, saw the piercing stare he was directing at me, and stuffed my hands into my pockets.
"Her name is True. True, meet Ezra, Josiah, JD, Buck an Nathan." As he said each name, the men gave me a small nod. "Boys, we have a problem. Meet me over at the jail in 5 minutes."
"So, what's up." The man called Buck asked once everyone was in the room.
"Me and Vin caught this young lady stealing from Mrs. Potter's store. When we brought her here to discuss things, she told us she's on the run an someone is trying to kill her."
"On the run from where?" Nathan directed the question at me.
I felt everyone's eyes on me and began to fidget. "Can't tell ya."
"Why?"
"Cause."
Vin came over to me. It felt like he was staring into my soul when he looked me in the eye... almost like we had some sort of connection. "Ya ran from a workhouse didn't ya?" he asked quietly.
You could have knocked me over with a feather. "How in the hell did ya figure that out?"
"Yer shoes." I noticed no one even bother to ask him how he knew that.
"So, it's people from the workhouse chasing ya?" Nathan questioned.
"Uhh..." I didn't know how to answer that.
"But why would the wanna kill her?" Buck added.
Shit! I stood there trying to think up an answer that would satisfy them. The truth was out of the question. I was about to reply when disaster struck. I saw JD move my pouch from the floor to the desk. I hadn't realized I'd dropped it and couldn't risk him looking in it since all my trade tools were in there. "Hey, that's mine, put it down!" I yelled.
JD looked up at me in surprise. "Okay, relax. I puttin' it down." As he sat it down, the top opened and some of my things fell out. I made a mad dash to the desk to rescue them when Chris stopped me. He picked up some of the tools and looked at them. "What is all this?"
Now how the hell do I answer that? "Ummm..." Yeah, good answer True, I scolded myself.
I knew I couldn't explain these things without telling them the whole story. Then a thought struck me. I knew I was gonna be killed for leaving the workhouse when the Observers caught me. Why couldn't I tell them everything else...what were they gonna do, kill me again? Of course, getting these men to believe me was a whole different story. And if they did believe me, would they really help like Chris and Vin said?
Since I had nothing to lose, I told them my story...well everything except the part about being an Oalyssagh and the growth inhibitor being implanted. I didn't think they were ready for that yet. I then demonstrated what each of my tools did to try and convince them I wasn't lying. When I finished, I looked up and saw the skepticism in their eyes, so I pulled out the last thing I had. I had the outfit that I wore at the Compound on under my clothing, so I began to take my shirt off.
"True, what in the hell do you think you're doing?" Chris yelled as he grabbed my hands.
"I have ta show ya something. In order ta do that, ya need ta see my stomach." I smiled at the gang's embarrassment. "Don't worry, I do have somethin' on under this shirt." I said and continued to remove it, revealing my vest.
"This," I said pointing at the ring in my belly button, " is a birth ring. Every child is pierced with one when they're born. The baby's name an date of birth are engraved onto the ring for identification." I took it out and handed to Chris.
Chris took the ring and looked it over. I could tell from the look on his face he'd never seen anything like it. He moved toward the light to get a better view of the inside of the band and read the inscription he found there. "True Daire McCallan. April 16, 2161." He handed it back to me. I took it back and noticed everyone wince when I put it in.
"What in god's name is on your back?" Ezra exclaimed.
"Oh...uh...that's my clan markin'." (For a look at the tattoo symbol, go to http://www.celticunited.com/listings/20.html)
Nathan bent down to get a better look at the symbol. "Didn't that hurt?"
"Yeah, like a bitch." I heard Chris clear his throat in warning. "Sorry." I added quickly then resumed my story. "It was worth it though. After my markin' ceremony the clan elders let me start workin' the trade I'd been trainin' for since birth...border runnin'."
"What the hell is that?" Buck asked.
"Well, it's..." I paused and looked at the men. I knew they weren't going to like my explanation, but I figured they already received a demonstration of my tools, so they probably had an idea. "It's sort like a thief. Ya run the Compound boundaries, meet up with runners from other sectors, an barter the goods or information you have ta get secrets, military plans, illegal subst..." I caught myself before finishing that word. "Ya know, like, whatever ya want. They ya sell'em ta the highest bidder. Man, you can make some real money doing that!"
"Let me guess, " Chris said. "The goods and information you bartered with were stolen."
"Ummm..."
"An those tools you showed us, they helped you steal the stuff and got you out of any trouble you might have gotten yourself into."
Man, he was giving me 'the look' again. "Well, ye...yeah." I stammered out.
Chris picked up my pouch. "Well, now that you're here, you wont be needing these." He dropped the pouch in a desk drawer and locked it.
"Hey! Ya can't do that! I need tha ..."
"No, you don't need them." Chris interrupted. "Since you wont be stealing or breaking into anything any longer. If your caught doing either of those, sitting will become a distant memory to you." He gave me a look that spoke volumes. Damn! This royally sucks. Now that they believe me, they think they can boss me around. I don't think so!
I was about to give Chris a piece of my mind, when Vin pushed himself off the wall he was leaning on and interrupted me. "So cowboy, what we gonna do with 'er? She cain't go off on 'er own. Kid'll be caught fer sure."
"Hey!" I yelled indignantly.
"True, you don't have a choice in this so just sit down an be quiet." Chris said sternly.
Who in the hell did this guy think he was? I stood there defiantly, challenging him to do something. I suddenly found myself in his grasp. "Ouch!" I yelped as his hand connected with my backside.
"Sit!" he commanded.
I threw myself into the nearest chair angrily. "Fine!"
Chris gave me one last glare then turned back to the group. "Anyone got any ideas?"
Ezra spoke up. "I believe I've stumbled upon a solution to our young companions dilemma." He paused to gather his thoughts. "We need to provide the impression that her coming here was deliberate."
"How would we do that?" Josiah asked.
"Simple. She will be related to one of us." Ezra replied.
"Ahhh, I see where you're goin' with this." Josiah said. "If she poses as kin to someone, she'll blend in and not bringing attention to herself. If these people show up to kill her, they wont be able to spot her quickly. That will give us time to get her out of harms way and take care of business." He grinned at that last statement.
"Exactly, Mr. Sanchez. The question is, who?"
"Chris?" JD posed.
"Sorry JD. She can't be related to me. Everyone saw how I reacted to her in the general store. It was quite obvious I didn't know who she was."
I was starting to get a little annoyed. They were talking like I wasn't even in the room. "Excuse me, guys? Don't I get a say in this?"
"NO!" Seven voices responded.
"JD, why don't you take True out to find Mr. Taylor? She has some money she needs to return to him." Chris instructed.
"Sure Chris. Come on True." JD grabbed my hand and pulled me out of the jailhouse before I could say anything.
Chris turned to Buck. "Buck, go with him and make sure True actually does give the money back. I'm afraid she'll pull one over on JD."
"Sure thing boss." He replied and headed out the door.
"At least we know we can rule those two out." Nathan said as he watched Buck take JD's hat and run. "And I guess I'm out too...I mean, it'd be pretty obvious we're not related." He said with a laugh.
"So that leaves Vin, Ezra and Josiah." Chris said to himself.
Ezra looked over to Josiah, raised his eyebrows and inclined his head to Vin. Josiah smiled and nodded back. They both noticed how the girl reacted to him and knew Vin would do a great job. Convincing him of that would be the hard part.
"I propose that Mr. Tanner become the child's relative." Ezra offered.
Vin paled. "Me?"
"Did anyone see him catch her?" Nathan asked.
"Probably, but it looked like he was holding her, so I don't think anyone will question her being Vin's sister." Chris answered.
"But, why me?" Vin said again.
"Come now Mr. Tanner, you're not fooling anyone. I've watched you with the children in town. You're a natural." Ezra said persuasively. "Besides, it appears you and True have some peculiar connection, not unlike you and Mr. Larabee. And your resemblance to her is astonishing."
"He's got you there Vin." Chris stated.
Vin gave him an 'eat shit and die' look. But he had to admit to himself, they were right. He'd felt the connection and noticed the resemblance the first time he saw her. "What would I have ta do?"
"I don't know 'bout this, Chris." Vin stated after everyone had left. "Ya sure folks is gonna believe she's m' sister? I mean I's thirt..." he faltered. "I mean I's a lot older than she is."
Chris couldn't let his slip up go. "So, you're 22...about time someone found out how old you really are."
"Ya tell anyone an yer a dead man." Vin said in mock seriousness.
"Your secret's safe with me." Chris promised. He could sense Vin's nervousness. "Look, folks'll believe whatever you tell them. No one else knows about your past except Nettie and Mary. And they won't say anything once we explain."
Vin took off his hat and ran his hand through his hair. "Shit Chris, I don't know nothin' 'bout raisin' no kid."
"I ain't gonna lie to you, it ain't easy an True is a handful. You can tell from the way she acts she has no respect for authority, so she won't take kindly to any rules you set down. But, I know you feel the same as me when it comes to disobedient and disrespectful children, so I don't expect her defiance to last long."
" I still don't like it. What if I mess up?"
Chris watched Vin begin to pace...not a good sign. "Vin," he grabbed Vin's shoulders to stop the pacing. "You're not alone in this. All six of us will be helping you."
"That's a big help...only one of ya is experienced." Vin muttered.
Chris smiled. "C'mon, lets go find True and let her know. Then we'll show her where your rooms are in the boarding house. Just hope you don't go soft sleeping in a bed."
"Aww hell." Vin mumbled and followed Chris out of the jailhouse.
After supper, everyone except Vin and Chris excused themselves and headed out for the evening. Once they were gone, Chris turned to me.
"In order to keep you safe, we need to lay down some ground rules." He began. "The most important thing is that you don't go wandering off. Before you go anywhere, you ask one of us. If we say go, then go. If we say you can't, then you can't."
Okay, I am sooo not liking this.
"Also, you will not practice your trade here. No stealing, pick pocketing or breaking into anything. We are trying to not bring any attention to you...if you do any of those things, then that ain't gonna happen."
I rolled my eyes. Man, these guys must think I'm stupid. Do they honestly think I'll go and get myself thrown in jail with the Observers on my tail? Give a girl some credit.
"We want to protect you, but in order to do that, we need your help. Do you understand?"
"Yeah." I wasn't happy about all this, even if it did make sense. I knew I wouldn't be able to keep the Observers off my tail forever so I was glad someone was willing to help me. But I was starting to wonder if it was all worth it...all these rules were killing me.
Chris stood up and moved toward the door. "I'm gonna take a walk. I'll be back in a bit."
I was about to follow him when I was collared by Vin. "Where ya think yer goin'?"
"Uh, I'm goin' outside too?"
Vin shook his head.
"I'm not?"
"Nope. Since we's gonna be kin, I wanna git some things straight b'tween us."
"Ya mean more rules. Damn it, what is it with you people an rules?" I said irritably. Vin ignored my outburst and went on as if I didn't say anything, which really pissed me off.
"First, I don't want ta hear anymore cussin'. It ain't right fer a kid ta talk like that. I also want ya ta be r'spectful...that means saying sir an ma'am."
"But..."
"Second, if me, one of th' boys, Nettie or Mary tell ya ta do somethin', ya do it, " Vin continued. "An I better not hear 'bout ya sassin' or arguin' 'bout it. Also, ya are s'pected ta go ta the school once th' new teacher gits here, be back ta th' boardinghouse fer meals an be in bed by 8pm."
Oh, that was it! I exploded. "Oh, no! This is crazy! I've been on my own since I was 7...I damn well don't need anyone ta give me rules an take care of me now. So ya can just take all this shit an shove it up your ass!" I stood up and stormed towards the door. I had almost made it when I felt a hand grab my arm.
Vin turned me to face him, stared at me for a moment, then dragged me upstairs. Once in our room, he took me over to one of the corners and pushed me in it. I immediately turned around.
"Turn around an stay there." Vin commanded with a swat to my behind.
"Ow!" I turned back around. "I don't wanna!"
"Don't matter what ya want, jist do as I say." He directed another slap to my backside and made me face the wall.
"Ouch! Why?" I turned again.
"'Cause I said so. Now turn around an face th' corner." Smack...turn.
"Ow! That ain't no reason!" I spun back to face him.
"S'only one yer gettin'. We ain't leavin' here until ya mind me." Smack...turn.
"Ouch!" I turn back to him. "Quit hittin' me!"
"Then do as yer tole." He folded his arms over his chest and waited for me to voluntarily face the corner. I hope he doesn't have anywhere to go cause it's gonna be a long wait. I glared back defiantly.
"Ya got 2 seconds ta git yer nose in that corner."
"An if I don't?" I challenged.
"I's gonna tan yer britches."
That statement took some of the fight out of me, but not all. I decided to change tactics. "I'm sorry. Look, if ya let me outta of this corner I'll do whatever ya say. I promise."
"Uh-huh. Jist like ya were doin a few seconds ago, right?"
Damn, he got me there...but I still wasn't licked. "Cant we just forget this an start over?" I said as sweet as I could and flashed my puppy dog eyes.
"Ya cain stop now, cause it ain't gonna work. Now turn around." When I didn't budge he grabbed my arm and started pulling me towards the bed. "Fine, have it yer way."
Oh no, this isn't good. Time for damage control. "Nóxa'e!(Wait!)" I yelled and tried to pull from his grasp. "Please...I'll go stand in the corner."
Vin relented and took me back to the corner. "If ya misbehave agin, I will spank ya. Understand?"
"Yeah...OW!"
"What was that?"
"Yes sir." I replied grudgingly and rubbed at the sting in my behind.
"Good. Now, we's gonna finish that talk we were havin' 'fore ya threw yer fit." He took a seat on the bed. "That foul mouth an temper of yers is gonna git ya inta a mess of trouble if'n ya don't git 'em under control. I won't put up with 'nother tantrum like ya jist had. Is that clear?"
"Yes sir." I answered without prompting...hey, no one's ever said I was a slow learner!
"An th' next time ya are disr'spectful or don't do as yer tole, yer gonna be over my knee with yer britches down." He said sternly before softening his voice. "I know ya were on yer own fer a few years an ya were used ta doin whatever ya wanted, but that's all gonna change. See, now ya got me an the boys ta look out fer ya an keep ya outta trouble. If'n ya keep up the way ya been goin', ya's gonna find yerself in jail...an that would be like signin' yer own death sentence since ya wouldn't be able ta run from them Observers ya was talkin 'bout. Do ya understand?"
"Yes sir."
"Do ya really? Cause if'n ya don't we's gonna have a rough time of it. I's don't wanna ride herd on ya, but I will if'n I need ta."
I sighed. "I understand, really. It's just gonna take me some time ta get used ta all these rules an havin' everyone tellin me what ta do."
"Well, I hope fer yer backside's sake ya learn quickly."
"So do I." I mumbled to myself...or at least I thought I did until I heard Vin laugh. He stood and came over to me. "Think ya cain do what yer tole if'n I spring ya?"
"Yes sir."
"All right then." He waited for me to turn. "We're gonna go down ta the bathhouse an git all that dirt off ya. An I don't want no foolin' around, Got me? "
"But..." I started to argue but the look Vin gave me followed by another swat to my rear caused the words to die in my throat. "Ouch!...Yes sir." I know, I know...I surrendered way too easily...but hey, I'm a 9-year-old kid with a stinging butt...how else was I supposed to reply?
Vin took my hand. "C'mon, let's git ya cleaned up an ready fer bed."
I laid on my bed and stared at the cracked ceiling. There was no way I was going to fall asleep this early since I was used to being awake until at least 2 or 3 in the morning.
I started to get bored and decided to sneak out and get a look at the town. I got up, pulled on my clothes and crept out of my room.
"Going somewhere?"
I nearly jumped out of my skin. "H-H-Hi Chris." I stammered. "W- Why aren't ya at the saloon?"
"Needed some air. Decided to sit out here for a little while." He said as he snuffed out his cheroot.
"Oh." Oookay time for a graceful exit. "Well, goodnight." I said and turned to go back inside.
"Just a minute."
Shit. I clenched my eyes shut. When I opened them, Chris was standing right in front of me. I gave a little start...damn, the man was like a shadow.
"Believe you are supposed to be in bed. Mind telling me what you're doing out here?"
"Getting some air?" I hedged.
"Uh huh. I think you've gotten enough, don't you?"
"Yes sir."
"Then get on back to bed, and I don't expect to see you out here again." He gave me a hard swat to my already sore backside and pushed me towards the door.
"OW!" I rubbed my rear and gave Chris a wounded look.
"Just be glad I'm not telling Vin. Don't think he'd take kindly to you not doing as he told you, especially after your little discussion earlier." Chris admonished.
I felt myself blush. "Heard 'bout that, did ya?"
"Yep. Now quit stalling and get on up to bed." He said and swatted me again.
I scowled and rubbed my backside. "Good night Chris." I sighed and headed to my room.
"KIERAN! NO!"
Vin's eyes snapped open. He shot up off the bed and grabbed his gun in one fluid motion. It took him a second to realize where he was and that the screaming was coming from the other side of the room. He stuffed his gun back into its holster and went to True's side.
"NO! DON'T TOUCH HIM! LET HIM GO! KIERAN!"
Vin reached over and gently brushed True's hair out of her face. "True...come on honey, wake up."
True stilled then put her hand out, as if she was touching someone. " Kieran? Are you okay?...Come on wake up...Kieran?...please open your eyes...please..."
Vin swallowed around the lump that formed in his throat. "Come on baby...you's jist dreamin'...open them eyes."
True began to struggle. "LET ME GO! NO!" She turned her head and her hair fell away from her neck. Vin stared in shock at the circular branding marks running just under the nape of her neck. *What th' fuck did they do ta ya??* he thought angrily to himself.
He pushed that thought aside. He had to wake her up before she hurt herself. "True, wake up." He said firmly. She stopped moving. "Come on, wake up." She opened her eyes, saw Vin and realized she was just dreaming. She dropped her head back on to the pillow and sobbed.
Vin wasn't sure what to do, so he did what his Indian mother used to do with him when he had nightmares. He scooped her up and held her to his chest. He felt True's little hands grab on to him. "Shhh. I got ya Sunshine," He said as he stroked her hair. "Everythin'll be okay. Shhh."
I was dreaming about him again. Ever since the Traa Eebyrtys, I've been having the dream that used to plague me when I was little. Everything was so real, and all I wanted to do was wake up. I felt someone touch me. "True, wake up."
My eyes shot open and I saw Vin sitting next to me. He looked so much like my brother. The images from my dream flashed in my mind. Kieran... god how I miss him. I felt tears come to my eyes and let them fall.
When I managed to calm myself down, I realized Vin had me in his lap. It was the first time Vin really touched me and I wasn't sure how to react. I felt safe and warm and really didn't want to leave this cozy haven, so I snuggled in closer. After a few minutes, I looked up at Vin.
"Ya okay?" he asked.
"Yeah."
"Wanna talk 'bout it?"
I never told anyone what happened that night, and I didn't think I could do it now. "Nah. It was a dream...just a dream."
"Cain I ask ya somethin'?"
I nodded.
"What were those marks on yer neck? Ya look like ya been branded."
I stiffened involuntarily. I had hoped to keep them hidden. "I was." I responded quietly.
"What?!" Vin hissed. "Someone branded ya?"
"Uh-huh. If I tell ya about them, ya wont say anything ta anyone other than the boys an those two women ya talked 'bout, will ya?"
"Ya got my word." Vin promised.
I nodded. "Well, during the Freedom War, all of the records were destroyed an many criminals walked because there wasn't any proof of their crime or punishment. So after the Division won, they came up with brandin' your crime an punishment into your skin, that way if the files were ever destroyed again, they could just look at your neck an know if ya were trouble. It's also a way the Detainers an Evaluators tell if you're worth anythin'. See, they get paid extra if they bring in certain people. The renegade clans an 3rd offenders are worth the most."
"So they's like a bounty hunter?"
"Sorta. They're still the law in the Compound." I moved my hair away from my neck. "They saw these an knew I was on my 3rd offense for border runnin'. On top of that, I belong to a renegade clan...I didn't stand a chance." I conveniently left out the real reason I was so valuable. I still wasn't ready to tell anyone about my gift just yet.
"What do th' letters mean?"
"The first part of the brand is your offense, the second part is your punishment. So, in the first set, A-PB, means 'Assault-Probation'...Probation, which is basically a warnin', being my punishment. I got that for almost killin' another runner when he tried to take my stuff."
"Ya got off with only a warnin'?" Vin asked in amazement.
"Yep. Killin' or almost killin' another runner is nothin'. The Compound Overseers look at it as being a 'survival of the fittest' thing. Besides, it's less work for them if we kill each other off."
"What 'bout th' rest of 'em?"
"BR-PB, means 'Border Running-Probation'. Wasn't looking over my shoulder, ended up getting' caught tradin' with the Jabbar's."
"BE-PB, means 'Breaking & Entering-Probation'. I broke inta an office that had some valuable papers I could trade with."
"BR-PC, means 'Border Running-Proximity Collar'. I got that for stealin' some jewelry off one of the Overseers an using it as trade for some new, state of the art, weaponry."
"What's a Prox-prox...what did ya call it?"
"Proximity Collar?"
"Yeah."
"It's a collar that alerts the Detainers if I get too close ta the Compound boundaries. That way, I can't trade." I smiled. "It didn't last long though."
"Why's that?"
"Cause I figured out the frequency code an overrode it. Had it off within a day."
Vin gave a small laugh. "Why doesn't that surprise me?" He shifted me to a more comfortable position. "What 'bout th' last two?"
"T-PB means 'Theft-Probation'. I got that for just plain old shopliftin'."
"An tha last one, BR-GITE, means 'Border Running-Grow..." Shit, I can't tell him the GI stands for growth inhibitor. He'd never understand. Think, True, think. "Uhh, I mean 'Border Running -Going Into Traa Eebrytys, which is time transportation. That's how I got here."
Vin gave me a look that told me he didn't believe me, but he left it alone. "What did ya do th' last time?"
"They caught me tradin' with the Adara, one of The Compounds biggest enemies. I just happened ta have some weapon array illustrations ta trade. The Adara runner had a CALM, or a Compound Armory Location Map. I think that was one of my best trades ever. Unfortunately, I was caught, so my clan wont be able ta take advantage of it."
Vin lightly fingered the brands. "Did it hurt bad?"
"Not really." At Vin's surprised look, I explained. "The Detainers are kind enough ta knock ya out before they do it...unless ya piss them off. I only made that mistake once."
Vin winced at the thought. "How old were ya when ya got them?"
"I was 7 for the first one, 8 for the next two and 9 for the last three."
"Sure were busy, weren't ya?"
"I had to do my part for the clan. I was the one of the best out there...they were lucky I was on their side." I quipped.
"I suppose."
We fell into a comfortable silence. I yawned a few times and snuggled deeper into Vin's chest. He kissed the top of my head. "Want me ta put ya down?"
I didn't really want to be alone. "Not really."
"Good. Wasn't gonna anyway."
The following day, I was walking towards the jail when I saw a boy, maybe 12 or 13 picking on younger boy. The older one was much larger and he was shoving the smaller kid. I was afraid he was going to get hurt, so I went to stop it.
"Hey!" I yelled to the older boy. "Why don't ya pick on someone your own size?"
The boy stopped and turned to me. "Piss off, this don't concern you."
I moved in, pulled the little boy from his grasp. "What, afraid a girl will beat ya?"
"Nah! There ain't a girl around that could hurt me!"
"Then try me." I challenged. He grabbed my shoulders and tried to push me down. That was all I needed.
I snapped my hands up to break the hold, grabbed his wrist, twisted his arm and ducked under it. My elbow found it way into his ribcage causing him to hunch over in pain. I kicked into the back of his knee and pushed him to the ground. He managed to roll over, so straddled his chest with my knees pressed into his shoulder sockets and gave him a few good hits to the face.
I released the clasp on the knife I had up my sleeve by flexing my forearm. The knife slid perfectly into my hand and I pulled it up to his throat. "I could kill ya right now, ya know that don't you? All I need ta do is..."
Before I could finish that sentence, I felt myself lifted unceremoniously off the boy. I spun the knife in the direction of the attack and came face to face with Vin. He grabbed my knife hand. "That's enough." He waited until I nodded before releasing me.
After he set me down, I looked around and noticed a crowd had formed. I heard Chris telling them the fight was over and for them to go about their business.
Vin grabbed my arm to get my attention. "Huh?"
"I tole ya ta apologize ta th' boy."
"Why? I didn't start it, he did. He was picking on that little boy over there so I stopped him." I said pointing to the kid wrapped around Chris's leg.
"Is that right Billy?" Chris asked.
"Yes sir. He was tryin' to take my candy."
Chris turned to Nathan. "Jonathan okay?" he asked referring to the other boy.
"He's gonna need a few stitches. I'll take care of it." Nathan helped him up and turned towards the clinic.
Buck managed to get a glimpse of Jonathan's face. "Woo wee girl, ya did a number on him. Where ya learn..."
"Buck." Chris interrupted. "Go tell Jonathan's parents what happened and that he's at the clinic."
"What? Oh, uh...sure thing Chris."
"Vin, take True over to the jail. I'll be over after I take Billy home. We'll get everything sorted out then."
Vin sat me on the desk and looked me over. "Ya don't have a scratch on ya. Do ya hurt anywhere?"
"Nope, I'm fine. He didn't get a chance ta land any punches."
"Where in th' hell did ya learn ta fight like that?"
"Uh, shouldn't we wait for Chris?" I asked trying to stall the coming conversation. For some reason I didn't think either of them would be impressed with my fighting abilities.
Before Vin could answer, Chris walked thorough the door. "All right, lets hear it."
I cringed at the sternness in his voice. "Uh...well, I told ya I was trained ta be a thief. That means there ain't nothin I cant steal, break inta or out of. My chances were high that I'd get caught or somehow get inta trouble, so I was taught how ta fight."
"Fighting with your hands is one thing, but a knife?" He asked indicating the small dagger I still had in my hand. "You definitely knew how to use it."
"I was taught how ta use every type of weapon we had. I had a natural aptitude for knives, so they focused on that during my trainin'."
"Well, ya won't be needin' any weapons now, so give me th' knife." Vin said.
I reluctantly handed it over. "Be careful, don't hit the..."
*Snick*
"...button on the handle."
"Holy shit!" Vin exclaimed in surprise and dropped it. I picked it up and held it out to show him exactly what happened. He looked the dagger in awe. "What in th' hell kinda knife is that?"
"It's called a Tannasg Dagger. Tannasg means "ghost" where I'm from. That's what it makes ya if it's used right...a ghost." I took it back. "See these two smaller daggers? After ya stab your enemy, ya hit the button an these pop out. It's mainly used for the throat, that way ya can sever everything with a stab instead of a slice."
"You mean you were trained to kill? At your age?" Chris asked.
"Kill, maim, whatever it takes." I said arrogantly. I saw Chris raise his eyebrow at my tone and I figured I'd better explain if I wanted to get out of here with my hide intact . "Look, I'm from a world that's at war. Since my clan is renegade, everyone in it is fair game. I'm a little more valuable since I'm a runner. I was constantly trading for compound plans, armory locations, etc, so I needed ta know how ta protect myself in case I got inta trouble."
"Well, you're no longer on your world, so you can just hand over the knife." Chris stated.
"But what if the Observers come? How can I protect myself?"
"You don't need too, that's what we're here for."
"C'mon Chris I..."
"True, Métseha! (Give it to him!)" Vin cut in.
I wasn't used to anyone else speaking the language and swung my gaze to Vin. "But..."
"Hetsetseha! (Now)."
"This is soo not fair." I said angrily and slapped the knife into Chris's outstretched hand. "Nahe! (Here!)"
"Th' rest too." Vin demanded.
"Rest?" I asked innocently.
"Don't go playin' innocent with me. I know ya have more, hand 'em over."
"I don't have nomore. Ya can search me if ya want."
"Ya know as well as I do that I wont find nothin' with ya wearin' that vest ya always have on. So's ya best give 'em over."
I looked up in shock. I know he saw the vest when I showed everyone my birth ring, but how did he know it concealed my weapons?
"Now." He said firmly. "Less'n ya'd like ta discuss it in our room first."
I wasn't dumb, I knew what he was alluding too. "Awww maaan." I groaned as I angrily unbuttoned my shirt, opened the vest and started handing over my weapons. When I was through, there were 5 knives and 3 daggers sitting on the desk.
"Chris'll be lockin' these away with your tools. If'n I so much as see ya near 'em or any other weapon or ya won't sit comfortably for a week. An that goes fer th' fightin' too. Ya could really hurt someone if'n ya aren't careful, so's I don't want ya doin' it no more. Got me?"
"But what if someone messes with me? I ain't gonna just let them hit me."
"I didn't say ya couldn't defend yerself. Jist don't let me catch ya startin' one like ya did a few minutes ago."
"Hey, I didn't start that!" I said angrily. "All's I did was stop the kid from pickin' on that little boy."
"Ya coulda come an got one a us an we woulda handled it. 'Stead ya pushed Jonathan inta fightin ya." He stated. "So, no more fightin'. We clear?"
"Yes sir." I reluctantly replied. Man, I am sooo not liking having a big brother again.
2 weeks later:
"True, let's go! Daylight's burning."
"G'way!" I mumbled and pulled the covers over my head.
"Don't think so." Vin pulled the covers off me and gave me a light slap on my behind. "C'mon Sunshine, open them pretty blue eyes." He teased.
I peeled one eye open and gave him a threatening look.
"That's my girl." He laughed. "Ya got 15 minutes ta git dressed an down ta breakfast." That said, he turned and left the room.
15 minutes later, I stumbled down the stairs and plopped myself at the table. A plate of food was set in front of me. I pushed it away. "Not hungry. Just need coffee." I managed to get out.
"Sorry. Don't think so. Eat." Vin pushed the plate back in front of me.
I was up half of the night because of my nightmare and had a headache the size of the Altec System...I was sooo not in the mood for this. "Damn it, I don't need food. I need coffee." I spit out angrily.
"What you need is your backside tanned." Chris said under his breath. I was about to give him the universal sign for fuck off, when Vin took my chin and forced me to look at him.
"I told ya b'fore, yer too young for coffee. Now eat." Vin said firmly. He let go of my chin and stood next to me until I pulled the plate back.
Damn, I knew all I needed was a cup of coffee to get rid of this headache... at least that's what worked so far. But nooo, Chris just had to catching me sneaking a cup in the kitchen and told Vin. Now I don't have a snowball's chance in hell of getting some.
I noticed Nathan watching me. "What?" I asked sullenly.
"True..." Vin warned. I heard the warning, but I didn't care...my head was killing me.
Nathan put some more bacon and eggs on his plate, and then turned to answer me. "Nothing. Just wondering if ya have a headache, is all." He replied pleasantly and continued eating.
"Yeah I do. So?" I replied hotly.
"True, I's not gonna tell ya agin... drop th' attitude. Now." I looked up and saw the storm clouds brewing in Vin's eyes. Oookay...warning finally received and acknowledged.
Nathan turned to Vin. "She's gotta headache cause she needs the caffeine that's in the coffee."
Vin gave Nathan a puzzled look. "She's been fine so far. Why's she need it now?"
"Because she's been sneaking a cup after breakfast since you told her she couldn't have any, remember?" Chris replied referring to our encounter in the kitchen yesterday.
Vin gave me a stern look. "Yeah, I r'member."
"Look Vin, if you want ta have a pleasant trip ta Nettie's, you may want ta give her a little ta take the edge off." Nathan recommended.
Vin paused in thought and then shrugged. "You're th' doc."
He filled a coffee cup half way and gave it to me. "That's all yer getting so don't ask fer more." I took the cup greedily, took a huge gulp and started to eat.
I was almost finished when Vin stood up. "I'm gonna saddle Peso. Meet me out front in 5 minutes." I nodded as I stuffed a piece of bacon in my mouth. Now that my headache was abating, my stomach decided it wanted attention. I was starving!
Vin was mounted on Peso when I walked out to meet him. I went to his side and looked up. Until recently, I had never seen a horse, let alone rode one, so I was unsure what to do next. Luckily, Chris followed me out. He scooped me up and deposited me in front of Vin.
"We should be back by sundown...less'n Nettie says otherwise." Vin said.
Chris smiled. All the boys knew that what Nettie says goes...and they sure as hell didn't want to be on the wrong end of her wooden spoon. "Watch your back." Vin nodded, gave Peso a little nudge with his foot and headed out to Nettie's.
"You all right?"
I turned in the saddle to look at him. "Yeah, why?"
"Jist wonderin'. I know ya was up most of th' night 'cause of yer dream."
"Oh." Was the only reply I could come up with.
"Been havin' this dream every night fer th' past 2 weeks. Might help ta tell someone 'bout it. We's all worried."
"We? Ya mean everyone knows I'm having nightmares?" I asked nervously. I didn't want everyone in my business.
"Not everyone. Jist Chris. He heard ya screamin' one night an asked me what happened."
I sighed. "I guess that's okay. It's just that I never told anyone 'bout what happened that night...the night my brother, Kieran, was killed."
"Might help if'n ya do. I's here ta listen if'n ya need an ear."
The way he said that went straight to my heart. Without conscious thought, I relaxed back into his arms and started talking.
"Me an Kieran got inta a fight 'cause he didn't want me practicin' my trade. He said that he'd take care of us an I didn't need ta risk getting caught. I told him the clan elders demanded that all of us earn our keep, that I was one of the best at what I did an he had no right ta stop me. Of course, he didn't like that remark an said I was only 7 an I was too young ta be runnin' the borders. I called him a couple of choice names an ran off.
"He found me 2 hours later, tradin' with another runner from the Caldon system, an boy was he mad. He grabbed my arm and started to drag me home so he could show me just how much. We had just moved away from the border when the Detainers saw us an gave chase. We ran for our village, but were caught before we could reach it."
'Why were they chasin' ya?" Vin interrupted.
"Well, my clan is renegade. 20 years before I was born, we fought against the Division, who were for organized society, in the Freedom War. We wanted the freedom to do as we chose an not have anyone dictate how things will be. When the Divisions won an established the Compounds, we went underground. Today, we are part of a resistance movement, so catching any of us is a Detainers dream come true."
"What happened after they caught ya?"
I shuddered and felt Vin pull me closer. "The Detainers held me an made me watch as they beat an kicked my brother. When the had their fill, they shot him, then turned to me. All the tactical training the clan gave me allowed me to break free from man holding me. As soon as my feet hit the ground, I ran. They chased me for a while, but eventually gave up. I waited until I saw them head back to the base camp then ran back to where they left Kieran.
"There was blood everywhere. I crept towards him an touched his cheek. He opened his eyes, told me he loved me an to behave, then they drifted shut. I tried to wake him up again, but couldn't. I knew I had to get away before the clean up patrol came, so I whispered that I loved him too an ran to the elders. The rest is history."
I didn't realize I started to cry until Vin turned me in the saddle and cradled me to him. I buried my head in his buckskin jacket and let the tears fall.
Nettie saw Vin ride into the yard and went out on the porch to meet him. She watched him help a little girl off Peso and wondered what was going on. It wasn't everyday you saw Vin Tanner with a small child.
"'Bout time ya came out here to see me. Ain't seen hide nor hair of ya in over 2 weeks." Nettie said. Vin saw the small smile playing at her lips and smiled back.
"I's sorry Nettie. I'd a been out here sooner, but I had somethin' ta take care of." Vin replied.
Nettie gestured towards True. "I take it this youngin' yer with was part of that?"
Vin put his hand on my shoulder. "Yes ma'am. This here's True."
Nettie nodded in greeting. "Well, lets go on inside. I imagine you're here ta tell me what's been going on."
"Ya ain't gonna believe me when I tell ya."
Vin told Nettie the entire story, from start to finish and waited for her response.
"That is quite a tale. If it came from anyone else, 'specially that fancy man, I'd never believe it. But you've never lied to me 'fore son, so I'm inclined to believe ya."
Vin was a little surprised that Nettie accepted the story so easily. He figured he'd have to go round and round with her to get her to believe him. "Thanks Nettie." He stood up. "Reckon I'll check th' fences an the roof an do some of th' chores 'round here. ''Magin they's need doin' since they's ain't been looked after fer 2 weeks." He turned to me. "C'mon."
I heard Vin say chores...that means physical labor...and I so do not do manual labor. "Why?"
"Cause yer gonna help me." Vin replied.
"It ain't my place, why do I gotta help?" I whined.
"True, you're helpin." He headed to the door expecting me to follow.
"No."
Vin spun around. "What was that?" He asked dangerously.
Uh. Oh. I knew that tone. I ducked my head and stared at the floor. "Uh...n-nothing."
When Vin didn't say anything, I looked up. He motioned me to come to his side, and stupid me went right to him. I yelped as Vin landed two hard swats to my rear. "OW! Ouch!"
"I heard ya. Best not let me hear it agin. Got me?"
"Yes, sir." I said as I tried to rub the sting away.
"Let's go." He put his hand on my shoulder and steered me outside.
I had just finished up the list of chores Vin gave me when Nettie called us in for lunch.
Vin was still up on the barn roof, so I went in the house to wait for him. I was about to sit at the table when Nettie stopped me.
"Did you wash up?"
"Why?"
"Child, you been workin' out in the barn all mornin'. Look at those hands, they're filthy. Go on outside and wash them."
"I ain't gotta do what ya say." I rubbed my hands on my pants then held them up. "An anyway, there clean, see."
"Young lady, you'll do as your told or you'll feel my hand on your backside." Nettie warned.
Who did this woman think she was? "Ya cant tell me what fuck to do an ya damn well cant hit me, so ya can just kiss my..."
"True!"
My tirade came to an abrupt halt at the sound of that voice. I turned to face a very angry Vin Tanner. "Oh. H-Hi Vin."
"Get yer tail out ta th' barn. Now."
I moved my hands to cover my backside. "Wh-Why?"
"I heard what ya said ta Nettie. Ya been warned 'fore 'bout bein' disr'spectful an 'bout yer cussin." He gestured towards the door. "Taanáasêstse!(Go!)"
"Awww, maan." I groaned as I moved past him and headed outside. I heard him behind me and quicken my pace...I never knew when he was going to give me a few impromptu swats. Shit, one of these days I'm gonna learn to keep my mouth shut.
Once inside the barn, Vin didn't waste anytime. He sat on a hay bale and pulled me to his side. "Drop yer britches."
"What?" I asked incredulously.
"I tole ya what would happen if'n ya got in trouble agin. Now, take 'em down or I'll do it fer ya." I didn't move. The next thing I know, my pants are pooled around my ankles and I'm face down across Vin's knees.
"I wont abide any disr'spect...'specially towards Nettie." He undid the flap on my drawers.
The first swat surprised me and caused tears to fill my eyes. I forgot how much this hurts! By the time he finished up, I was sobbing. Vin stood me up, helped me rearrange my clothes and pulled me into hug. When I stopped crying he took my chin in his hand. "Now. I believe ya have an apology ta make."
"Yes sir."
I walked slowly up to the house, washed up at the pump and went into the kitchen. "Miss Nettie?" She turned from the stove and fixed me with a stern glare. "Ummm...I'm sorry I said those t-things to ya. I-I didn't mean them, I was just a-angry." I stammered out, my breath still hitching from crying.
"Young lady, if you were my child I'd wash your mouth out with soap. If I ever hear those words come out of your mouth again, I'll forget you're not. Understand me?"
"Yes, ma'am."
"Good." She gave me a quick squeeze then handed me a stack of plates. "Now. Go on an set the table."
Nettie watched as True tried valiantly to stay awake at the supper table. She wasn't successful. A small smile crept across her face as True's head fell onto the table. "Vin, looks like your young friend there is 'bout ready for bed. How 'bout stayin' the night."
"I don't know Nettie. I tole Chris I's be back t'night."
"It wasn't a request son. 'Sides, we both know Chris never expects ya back when ya say you'll be back." She stood up. "Casey's out at the Tucker place. Ya can put True in her room."
Vin thought about arguing but caught the look on Nettie's face and sighed in defeat. "Yes ma'am." He scooped True up and carried her into Casey's room. She stirred as he laid her down. "Vin?"
"Shhh, s'okay . We's jist stayin' th' night. I's puttin' ya in Casey's room so's ya cain git some sleep. Me an Nettie'll be in the next room if'n ya need anythin'. Okay?"
True yawned. "Ummmph." Vin helped her strip down to her drawers and get settled. He tucked the covers in around her and kissed her forehead. "Night sweetheart."
When Vin reemerged, Nettie had a cup of coffee waiting. He took it and sat on the floor with his back leaning against the chair.
Nettie settled into her rocker. "She's sure a handful."
Vin smiled. "That she is."
"She always act like that?"
Vin knew she was referring to what happened earlier. "Sometimes. She's jist not used ta rules an such. We's workin on it though."
Nettie laughed. "I noticed."
Vin blushed. "I hate punishin' 'er, but I won't stand fer her bein' disr'spectful or not doin' as she's tole." He sighed and took a sip of his coffee. "I ain't had much experience with kids. Sure hope I cain do right by 'er."
Nettie laid a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "You're doin' fine son. Just fine."
"VIN! VIN!" My eyes shot open as my own voice woke me.
I heard Vin come tearing into the room, Nettie right behind him. Vin moved to my side and gently pushed the hair off my face. "Shhh, I's right here. I's right here."
I snapped out of the daze I was in and threw my arms around Vin. I couldn't stop my body from trembling with fear. "What's a matter honey? Have 'nother bad dream?"
I nodded.
"'Bout yer brother?"
I shook my head no.
"Then what?"
"Observers." I said in a shaky voice. "They're comin'. I saw them."
"Honey, it was jist a dream."
"N-No it wasn't. They come an get me." I started to panic. "I-I've got to get away. I-I've got to run or they'll get me." I tried to get up but Vin held me tight.
"True..." I wiggled and tried to break free. "TRUE! Né'áahtovêste! (Listen to me!)." Vin said sternly. I stopped moving. "Everythin'll be okay. Ain't no way I's gonna let anythin' happen ta ya. If'n they want ya they have ta git through me first. Understand?"
I pulled back and looked at Vin. "P-Promise?"
"Ya got my word." He laid me back in bed. "Now, how 'bout ya try ta go back ta sleep? We's gotta git up early t'morrow. Think ya cain do that?"
"Ummhhmpph." Was all I managed to say before I fell back into dreamland.
Nettie had watched the whole exchange between Vin and True. After True fell asleep, she tugged on Vin's sleeve and motioned him out of the room. She pushed him into a chair and headed into the kitchen to make coffee. When she returned, she noticed Vin had moved himself on to the floor. "Son, that chair ain't gonna bite ya. It's okay ta sit in it."
Vin gave a small laugh. "Aww Nettie, ya know sittin' on a chair is too civilized fer me."
Nettie gave him a mock glare then became serious. "So, True have these dreams often?"
"Yeah, but they's usually 'bout her brother who was kilt. She's never had one 'bout th' Observers comin' fer 'er though."
"Ya think there's anythin' to it?"
"I don't know. We know th' Observers are comin', but we don't know when. Maybe she's jist startin' ta git scared."
"If they do come, what do you an the boys have planned to keep True safe?"
"If we see 'em, we's gonna git 'er outta town...prolly ta Chris's place...till they leave."
"You'll do no such thing."
"Ma'am?"
"Ya ain't takin' her ta that shack. It's liable ta fall down as soon as ya step foot inside." Nettie set her cup down. "Nope, ya gonna bring her right here. She'll be safe...I have no problem puttin' another notch in my old Spencer Carbine if need be."
"But Nettie..."
"No buts! You'll bring her here. Understand?"
Vin knew he lost this argument before it even started. "Yes ma'am."
We left early the next morning. We had been riding for about 15 minutes when Vin pulled Peso up short. He reached into his saddlebag and pulled out his spyglass.
"Got company."
"Where?" He handed me the spyglass and pointed to our left.
"See 'em?"
Oh, I saw them all right and what I saw was not good. "Observers."
"What? How cain ya tell?"
"They both used ta be Detainers. The one on the right arrested me 2 times and the other one caught me once, but I got free."
Vin kicked Peso into a gallop. "We gotta git ta the trees 'fore they git too close. Me might be able ta lose 'em in there. If not, least we'll have some cover."
We had just cleared them when the Observers caught up with us. I knew we couldn't risk Peso getting hurt running through the trees, so I decided I better do something. I conjured up the tree spirit and had them pull their limbs back. I waited for just the right moment and let them go. The limbs flew forward, knocking both men off their horses.
"Yesss." I yelled an pumped my fist. "Vin, ya can stop runnin'. They uh..." I hesitated. I wasn't exactly sure what to tell him. "Uh...fell off their horses."
Vin gave me an odd look, but turned Peso around and headed back to the Observers. We found them on the ground, slightly dazed.
"Ya boys hand over yer weapons." Vin said and cocked his gun.
One of them, Bryce I think his name was, pushed his gun towards Vin and sat up. "You think you have us beat, don't you? You got your little family and clean place to live, nothing like it was supposed to be for you. Looks like being sent back here wasn't punishment after all. At least you still have the GI implant."
"Bee dty host! Eh-shen nagh dy ve oayllagh rish y aase lhiettal! (Shut up! He doesn't know about the growth inhibitor!)." I screamed in my planet's ancient tongue, knowing he'd understand me.
Bryce gave me an evil grin. "Oh, so he doesn't know you're..."That was as far as he got before I drew my hand up and plunged the knife I took from Vin's belt into his throat. About that time, the other Observer grabbed his gun and aimed it at me. Before he could get his shot off, Vin took him down.
He stormed over to me. 'WHERE IN THE HELL DID YA GIT THAT KNIFE?" he yelled.
I'd never heard Vin yell before and was momentarily stunned into silence.
"ANSWER ME!"
"Uh...I took if from the sheath on your belt." Vin immediately reached back and came up empty. "I-I didn't wanna face these guys without some kinda weapon." I added when I saw how angry he was.
He grabbed my arm and pulled me to a fallen log. "Hámêstoo'êstse! (Sit down!)" I opened my mouth to tell him about the Monitoring Bracelet they wear on their ankle, but he cut me off. "Névé'eóxôheve! (Don't say anything!)"
I shut up, knowing Vin only spoke the language when he was really pissed off or I was getting on his last nerve. I watched him pull his knife out of Bryce's neck, clean it off and put it back into his belt. I could see the anger radiating off him as he tried to regain control. He stood there for what seemed like an eternity before he turned back to me.
"We got some talkin' ta do."
"I know." I guess this wasn't the best time to bring it up, but I had to tell him about the bracelets. "But before ya kill me, I gotta tell ya somethin."
"What?"
"The Observers wear bracelets around their ankles that monitors their heart rate an acts like a homing device. The Evaluators will know they're dead an will send replacements as soon as they get permission from the Overseers." I explained. "Unless I can get them off an reprogram them. They'll still know the Observers are dead, but I might be able to get them off my trail for a while."
Vin studied me for a minute. "All right. See what ya cain do. Our little talk cain wait."
I hopped off the log and made my way over to the bodies. I pulled open my shirt and reached into my vest for my tools. I know what you're thinking...no, they are not my trade tools...they're actual tools, ya know screwdriver, pliers etc. Jeesh do you think I have a death wish or something?...Wait don't answer that.
I made short work of getting the bracelets off and started working on the homing device implanted in them. "The Evaluators reinforced these. Guess they knew I'd try ta do this."
"Ya gonna be able ta do it?"
I laughed. "I ain't found a force field or code I can't break yet. I don't 'spect this one will be a problem. I just gotta tweak this a little..." The bracelet beeped, letting me know I was in. I snipped a few wires and twisted them together then snapped it closed again. "There, all done. When the replacements come they'll be starting somewhere..." I looked at the display. "... back east."
"Good. Now we got a few things ta discuss." He said in a low dangerous voice.
I gulped. "N-Now Vin, I-I had to defend m-myself." I stuttered trying to save my hide.
"No ya didn't." Vin ranted. "Takin my knife an stabbin' that guy...I done tole ya not ta touch any weapons. Didn't I?"
I found my shoes very interesting at the moment and kept my eyes trained on them. "Yes sir." I mumbled.
"Vé'hoomêstse! (Look at me!)."
I raised my head and looked Vin in the eyes. I was surprised when I saw fear, not anger, in his eyes.
"Ya coulda been kilt. Ya realize that?"
"Yes sir. I know I shouldn't a done what I did."
Vin sighed. "I reckon ya know what's comin. Let's git it over with."
I froze. How in the hell was I supposed to take another spanking after the one I got yesterday? Oh okay, it doesn't hurt anymore, but it's the principle damn it.
"True over here. Now."
I slowly moved to the log he was sitting on. He reached up, undid my pants and pulled them down. I struggled as he lifted me up and placed me over his knee. "Settle down." He said sternly.
Huh, that's easy for him to say, it ain't his hind end that's about to be blistered. He undid my flap and started whaling away at my defenseless rear. By the time he was through, I was sobbing so hard I couldn't breathe. He redressed me and pulled me onto his lap, mindful of my inflamed behind.
"I don't ever want ta see ya touchin' a weapon agin. Understand?"
"Yes sir."
"Come on then, we got git back ta town an let the undertaker know. He'll come git the bodies."
Vin lifted me into the saddle and mounted up behind me. I squirmed around trying to find a comfortable position. Vin must have noticed because he grabbed his bedroll and push it under me. I sighed in relief. "Thanks."
We rode in silence for a few minutes before Vin spoke again. "Those boys knew a lot about ya."
"They should since they were my brothers friends before they turned. Bet ya wish they were still alive so's ya could find out everything about me." I replied sullenly.
"No. I reckon ya tole me everythin that's important."
"How can ya be so sure?"
"I trust ya. An I know ya wouldn't hold anythin' back if'n it was gonna cause problems fer me an th' boys."
"Oh." I was starting to feel bad about not telling him about the Growth Inhibitor being implanted. It would surely cause problems when people realized I haven't aged. "Uh...what if I forgot ta tell ya somethin? Would I get inta trouble?"
"What do ya think?"
"Well, I would if Kieran was here. He always said leaving out information is the same as lying."
"I reckon I agree with him."
"Oh."
"But, if ya forgot ta tell me somethin, I suppose I could let it go jist this once." Vin relented.
My heart lifted a little. "Well, remember when the Observer said something 'bout a GI Implant?"
"Yeah."
"Well, along with sending me back here, the Evaluators implanted a growth inhibitor. It keeps my cells from splittin' an multiplyin' so I can't grow. " I turned around to look at Vin and saw the confused look on his face. "It means I'll be 9 years old forever."
"Cain't ya remove it?"
"I would if I knew where it was. They didn't inject it into the arm like they normally do because they knew I'd take it out. It could be anywhere on my body."
"Cain ya see it?"
"No. I'd need a Locator to find it. And I ain't gonna find one of those in this century." I said sadly.
"Ya realize this is a hard pill ta swallow."
"Sure I do. I wouldn't believe me if I told me this story. I just figured I'd tell ya so ya'd know what ta do when people start wondering why I haven't aged any."
"Well cross that bridge when we git ta it. Are ya gonna tell the others?"
"I guess so. Haven't figured out a reason not ta."
"When yer ready ta tell 'em ya let me know an we'll tell 'em together. Okay?"
"Yes sir." It sure was nice having someone on my side. "Vin?"
"Huh?"
"Thanks."
That night, after supper, I told everyone about the Growth Inhibitor. As expected, they all had a hard time grasping the idea. Vin and I explained it as much as we could, but I don't think they all believed me. I figured I'd leave it alone...they'll find out soon enough.
"All right Sunshine, time fer bed." Vin announced.
"But it's too early..."
"Tâhéovešêstse. (Go to bed.)" he said sternly. "Hetsetseha! (Now!)"
"I'm goin, I'm goin." I huffed and headed to our room. I took as much time as I dared getting ready for bed. Vin entered the room as I was putting my nightshirt on.
"Come over here." He said as he sat on the bed.
"I didn't do anything!"
"Didn't say ya did. Jist wanna talk ta ya."
"Oh." My rear still hurt from this afternoon, so I stood in front of him. "What did ya want ta talk 'bout?"
"What happened this afternoon."
"Ya already punished me for that!" I cried.
"Boy, ya sure are jumpy." Vin laughed. "I jist wanna make sure ya's okay."
"With what?"
"Killin that Observer."
I was confused. "Why wouldn't I be okay?"
"True, ya kilt a man. Doesn't that bother ya?"
"Nope."
"What?" Vin sputtered.
"I ain't sorry I killed him. 'Sides, he was just an Observer. I ain't never gonna feel bad 'bout killin one a those."
Vin stared at me in shock. "Yer tellin me ya ain't got no problem killin someone?"
"I was trained ta do it if I needed ta...an I'm glad I did it today."
Vin's mouth opened and closed a few times but nothing came out. "Ya all right Vin?" I asked.
Vin shook his head as if trying to clear his thoughts. "Yeah." He stood up. "Go an an git inta bed."
"But it ain't 8 o'clock yet." I whined.
"I's still mad 'bout this afternoon, so quit yer whinin' an lay down."
I yanked my covers up angrily and slid under them. "It ain't fair, ya already punished me for that!"
"Yep, an I addin' this ta it." He stood up and headed to the door. "Now go ta sleep."
I waited for him to go back downstairs before getting out of bed... I'd be damned if I was going to bed this early. I moved to the window, carefully pushed it up so I could squeeze out and sat on the sill. Luckily, it was dark out and no one could see me up here...or so I thought. I almost fell when I saw Ezra stop outside the boardinghouse and looked up at me.
Ezra left the saloon cursing himself for forgetting his flask. He just couldn't play a good game of cards without it. He was just about to enter the boardinghouse when he saw a figure sitting on the windowsill.
"Mr. Tanner," Ezra said when he entered the front room. "might I suggest you look in on your young charge?"
"Why?"
"It appears she has decided to gather a breath of fresh air by perching on her windowsill."
"What!?" Vin yelled and ran for the stairs.
I heard Ezra enter the boardinghouse and quickly climbed back into the room. Unfortunately, my nightshirt caught on a nail just as I pulled in my leg, causing me to fall onto the floor. I was trying to get free when my door flew open.
"What in th' hell are ya doin?" Vin asked angrily. "Didn't I tell ya ta go ta bed?"
I tried to look up at him, but my nightshirt was pulled up over my head, forcing me to bend over with my backside facing him. "Uh Vin, I can explain. But 'fore I do, would ya mind cuttin' me free?"
"Ya ain't got nothin to 'splain. I cain see fer myself what ya was doin. As for cuttin' ya loose, well I might hold off on that, seein' as how yer in th' right position fer what I got in mind."
"No...don't...Ow! Ohh! Ouch!" I yelled as three consecutive smacks landed on my unprotected backside before Vin unhooked my nightshirt from the nail. I stood quickly and rubbed at the fire in my rear. "That was soo unfair!"
"Ya didn't answer my question. What're doin outta bed?"
"Nothin. I just didn't want ta go ta bed so early." I replied sullenly.
Vin took my arm and pulled me back to the bed. "It don't matter what ya want, ya jist do as I tell ya. Now, git inta that bed an go ta sleep."
"She finally in bed?" Chris asked as Vin stepped out onto the porch.
"Yep, an she better stay there if'n she knows what's good fer her." He growled in response.
"After the way I saw her squirming around at supper, and those extra swats you just gave her, I think we'll have a pretty peaceful night."
"Yeah, right." Vin snorted before looking out into the street.
Chris could tell something was eating at him. "You gonna tell me or do I have to pull it outta you?"
"Chris ya should have seen her." He replied. "I ain't never seen anythin like it. It's not everyday ya see a 9 year-old stab someone in th' neck."
"How's she doin'?"
"That's th' scary part. She don't feel th' least bit sorry she done it. Said she has no problem killin someone if she needed ta. Can ya believe that?"
"Well, she did say she came from a world at war. This might not of been the first time."
"I suppose." Vin replied before suddenly turning to look at the rooms above them.
"What?" Chris asked.
"I'm gonna kill her." Vin muttered before stalking back into the boarding house.
Chris couldn't help but smile as he heard the argument and resulting cries coming from Vin and True's room. He snuffed his cheroot out. "Well, so much for a peaceful evening."
"Mornin'." I yawned as I sat at the table for breakfast. Vin started to put food on my plate for me. I was still angry over what happened last night and decided to let Vin know it. "I can do it." I said and grabbed for the plate.
Vin easily moved it out of my reach. "Don't think so. Nathan said ya's too skinny an need ta eat right. If'n I let ya fill yer plate, you'll only have a few biscuits." He finished filling the plate and set it in front of me. "I 'spect ya ta eat all of it."
"I don't want it!" I pushed the plate away, crossed my arms across my chest and slouched down angrily in my chair.
Vin grabbed my arm and pulled me up straight. "Quit yer poutin' an git ta eatin'."
I know I was pushing him, but I really didn't want to be cooperative this morning. I wanted him to know how I felt about the punishment he handed down...I cant believe along with that spanking he gave me he's making me go to bed early for the next 3 nights. "I said I ain't eatin it." I spat out and slouched back down.
"That's it!" Vin grabbed my arm again and pulled me out of the chair. "I ain't dealin with yer attitude today. Ya cain jist go on back up ta yer room an stay there." He swatted my backside and shoved me towards the stairs.
"OUCH!" I realized at that moment I'd sent Vin over the edge and tried to smooth things over. "I'm sorry. I'll eat what ya gave me." I moved back towards the table but Vin stopped me.
"Nope. I done gived ya a chance ta behave an ya didn't take it."
"Aww Vin..." I took one look at his face and knew I'd be wasting my breath. "Maaan, this is sooo not fair! How long do I gotta stay there?"
"Haven't decided that yet...depends on how ya behave. An the way yer goin now, you'll be lucky to git out fer supper. Now go."
"Fine!" I huffed and stomped up to my room.
God, I was sooo bored. I've been laying here looking at these same four walls for the past 3 hours, and was ready to do or say anything to get out. I heard footsteps outside my door and sat up.
"Ya ready ta behave?" Vin asked as he entered the room.
"Yes sir." I replied in my most repentant voice.
"Why should I believe ya?"
"Cause I'm sorry. Really, really sorry." I added my kicked puppy dog eyes for good measure.
Vin smiled. "Ya cain quit it with th' eyes. I was plannin' on lettin' ya out."
I jumped up. "I know." I giggled and kissed his cheek. "You're just an ol softy!"
"Yeah, well ya'll find out how hard this 'ol softy's hand cain be if'n ya misbehave agin." He warned.
"I wont, I promise."
Vin kissed my head. "All right, go on an git outta here."
1 month later:
"Chris, I gotta get outta here." Vin said quietly. He and True had become really close, and he loved her like she was his own. He really didn't want to leave her, but he was getting that closed in feeling and needed to get away for a few days.
Chris smiled. He wondered how long Vin was going to be able to stay in town before he went crazy. Hell, sleeping in a bed was probably enough to kill him. "All right."
"You keep an eye on True?"
"Yep. We'll be fine."
"Thanks. I'll go tell her."
When Vin told me he was leaving town for a few days I was excited. I mean, as much as I love Vin, a few days without him watching my every move and telling me what to do was a dream come true. But that dream came to a screeching halt when he told me I'd be staying with Chris. Don't get me wrong, I love Chris too, but he's worse than Vin when it comes to 'keeping me in line' as he liked to say.
I didn't plan on getting into any trouble, especially after Vin told me what he would do if I did...and everything went fine yesterday, but today...well today's an entirely different story...
***Flashback***
I was sitting outside the jail, snuggled comfortably in Chris's lap, when Billy Travis came over.
"Hey, True. Wanna play?"
Now, I don't know if I mentioned this, but the kid got on my nerves. Not only was he 2 years younger than me, he was a goody-goody. He wouldn't do anything fun or dangerous. Every time I tried to talk him into it, he'd say, "My ma wouldn't like that." How annoying is that?
I was about to tell Billy to take a flying leap, when Chris nudged me. I looked up and saw the look he was giving me. Damn it! Why does he have to be sweet on Billy's ma? Doesn't he realize it's pure torture playing with him? The things I do to make him happy. I sighed and slid off Chris's lap.
"Sure. Lets go."
Since I was basically forced to play with him, I decided that today was the day he stopped his 'holier than thou' attitude. I'm not trying to be mean...hell, he's only friend I have, but he needed to cut loose and have some fun.
"Hey Billy, wanna play a game? "
"What game?"
"It's called 'Slight of Hand'. I used to play it all the time back home." Actually, I only played it once, but he didn't need to know that.
"How do ya play it?"
"Well, we go inta the store an we take somethin' without anyone seein' us. Then we come outside an show what we got. Who ever has the most expensive item wins."
"Ain't that stealin? My ma wouldn't like that."
I rolled my eyes. "No silly. After we pick a winner, we go back inta the store an put it back. But the standin' rule is, no one can see ya do it. See, that's the tricky part of the game...takin' it an puttin' it back without anyone noticin'."
I could see that Billy wasn't sold on the idea, so I said the only thing I found that got him angry. "What's a matter, you scared or somethin'?"
"No I ain't scared, it's just..." He got a determined look on his face. "Fine, I'll play."
I smiled triumphantly. " Great! Let's go."
Five minutes later, we arrived at the store and headed inside. I pushed Billy towards the left side of the room, then went to the case on the counter across from the candy display to check out the knives. Since I could steal just about anything, I knew I wouldn't get caught, but I was almost positive Billy would. In fact, I was counting on it. I wasn't disappointed.
"Billy! What in the world are you doing?" Mrs. Potter exclaimed.
Billy spun around. "Oh, Mrs. Potter. We's just playin' a game."
"A game? Son, you were about to steal from me, weren't you?"
"No, ma'am." He shook his head emphatically. "I was gonna take it an put it back right after we decided who the winner of the game was."
"Billy, I don't understand. What game are you playing that involves stealing? And who's we?"
"It's called 'Slight of Hand'. Me an True are playin' it."
At the mention of my name, I stuffed the knife in my pocket and quietly moved to the door to make my escape. Yeah, I know, I should have put the knife back, especially after Vin told me I wasn't allowed to touch them, but I liked it. Besides who knew when a girl was going to need one. I had made it to the counter by the door when I felt a hand drop onto my shoulder. Startled, I spun around directly into Buck. *Uh. Oh. *
"What in the world you doing girl?"
At the same time he asked that, Mrs. Potter called across the room. "Mr. Wilmington! Thank goodness you caught her. Don't let her go, I'll be right there."
Buck turned to JD. "Better go get Chris an Mary."
Shit, I'm like sooo busted.
When Mrs. Potter reached us, Buck suggested she get us away from prying eyes and go on into the back. After he assured her he'd keep an eye on the store and send Chris and Mary back there when they showed up, she grabbed me and Billy's arm and pulled us into the storeroom.
It seemed like an eternity before Chris showed up, Mary right behind him. He stood in front of me, his unyielding gaze staring a hole right through me.
"What happened?" he demanded.
Mrs. Potter stepped forward. "These two were trying to steal from me."
Chris shifted his gaze between Billy and me. "That true?"
Okay, time to save my hide. "Of course not Chris. We came into the store an I went over to the candy counter to see if Mrs. Potter got anythin' new. Next thing I know, she's got Billy in her grip sayin' he was stealin'. I don't know why he did it."
"What?! Ya said it was a game! Ya said we was gonna give it back after we decided who the winner was!" Billy exclaimed.
"Winner? Billy what are you talking about?" Mary inquired.
"True said we had ta take somethin' an whoever had the most 'spensive thing won the game. Then we had ta put it back without anyone seein' us."
Chris crooked an eyebrow at me.
"Don't look at me, I don't know what he's talkin 'bout."
"You don't? Then why was there a knife missing from the case on the counter near the candy display?"
Shit! Shit! Shit! How did he find that out so quickly? Then it hit me...Buck. Okay, time to move to plan B. "I was lookin' at it an slipped it into my pocket to see how it felt before I went to pay for it."
"How were you going to pay for it?" Mary asked skeptically. "I know you and Billy don't have any money."
"I do too!" Came out of my mouth before I could stop it.
"Show me." Chris ordered.
This was where my plan fell apart. You see, the only money I had was the money I stole from Mr. Taylor the first day I was in town. You didn't honestly think I gave it all back, did you? Anyway, I knew as soon as I showed the coins, Chris would figure it all out. I stood trying to decide what to do when Chris decided for me.
"Show me or I'll check for myself. You don't want me to do that."
I knew exactly what he was implying...I wasn't stupid. I reached into my pocket, pulled out the coins and handed them to Chris. I shifted nervously as I waited for his reaction. It didn't take long.
"Those *better* not be from where I think they're from." He grounded out coldly.
"Ummm..." My mind went blank. I had no idea what to say to get out of this.
"That's what I thought. Give me the knife."
I reached into my other pocket, pulled out the jackknife and dropped it into his waiting hand. Chris returned the knife to Mrs. Potter, and then turned to Mary. "Looks like this was all True's doing. Don't think Billy should get in trouble for something she did, especially since she tricked him into doing it."
"I didn't trick him!" I yelled.
"No? Then who told him it was a game?"
I remained silent. There was no way I was answering that. It would only get me in deeper than I already was.
"That's what I thought."
"Billy knows he shouldn't take anything." Mary looked at Billy. "Even if he thought it was a game." She added before he could open his mouth.
"Mr. Larabee, this is the second time that child tried to steal from me. What are you going to do about it?"
"What do you want done?"
"I would say jail, but she's too young for that. I guess I'll leave it up to you to handle, again. But this is your last warning, and if I catch you again, I'll ban you from my store. Understand? "
"Yes ma'am." I whispered. I'm in sooo much trouble.
Chris grabbed my arm. "Let's go."
***End Flashback***
That brings me to why I'm sitting in my room now. Chris was so angry, he said he couldn't deal with me. He sent me to my room and said he'd be up once he calmed down. I heard footsteps outside my door and braced myself for the storm coming my way.
The door opened and Chris walked in. He took the chair from the corner of the room, turned it around and straddled the seat. "Start talking."
I didn't know what he wanted me to say. "I'm sorry. I was just playin' around."
"Just playing? True, you lied to me. You know how I feel about that."
"I know. I'm really, really sorry."
"You also disobeyed me. Thought I told you to give Mr. Taylor his money back."
"I did!" I whined. I caught the look on Chris's face and quickly added "Just not all of it."
"What about the stealing? How did you get the lock on the knife case open?"
"Oh that was easy. All I needed was this piece of wire I found." I held it up for him to see. "'Sides, that lock was child's play compared ta the other locks I've picked." I mumbled to myself.
"What was that?"
I felt his eyes boring a hole through me. "Nothing."
"I asked you a question."
"Ummm..." I started fidgeting under his stern glare. "I-I said the lock was e-easy compared to the other stuff I've b-broken into."
Chris rubbed his eyes wearily. "Thought me and Vin told you not to touch any knives after we took yours away."
"Ya did."
"Then why?"
"I don't know, just wanted it." I was getting a little freaked out by him staring at me like that. As usual, my mouth started moving before my brain could catch up. "An anyway, if that bitch didn't want her stuff stolen, she shoulda put a better lock on the case. Not my fuckin' fault she used one I could have picked open in my sleep." I slapped my hand over my mouth. Shit, shit, shit.
Chris didn't say anything for what seemed like an eternity. When he finally did, his voice was so cold it caused chills to run up my spine. "Give me the wire." I handed it over to him.
"Guess you know you're in big trouble."
"Yes sir."
He stood up and unbuckled his belt. "Stand up."
I slowly got to my feet. He pulled the belt from the loops and folded it in half. "I told you before what would happen if you were caught stealing again. Bend over."
I leaned over, braced myself on the bed, and waited for the first lick to fall. When he was finished, Chris stood me up and put his belt back on. None of the other spankings I received even compared to this. It fell like the fires of hell decided to take up residence in my pants. I threw my arms around his waist. "I'm sorry Chris." I sobbed out into his chest.
"Shhh. I know. It's over now." He rubbed my back until I calmed down. When I finally stopped crying, I pulled back and looked up. "Ya gonna tell Vin?"
"Nope."
I sighed in relief. He told me he'd tan my hide with his belt if I got in trouble while he was away. After feeling Chris's, I wasn't in a hurry to experience it again. My relief was short lived.
"You are."
The sun shining through the window woke me up, which was a first since someone usually had to drag me out of bed. I sat up cautiously since my backside was still a little tender. It had been two days since me and Chris had our 'discussion' on stealing and lying. I was determined to *never* have that discussion again. Now all I had to worry about was Vin.
I was really missing him but dreaded him coming home. I really didn't want to tell him what happened while he was away. It wasn't the fact he was going to blister my backside, though that was a *big* part of it, it was the disappointment I knew I was going to see in his eyes. I loved him like he really was my brother, and didn't want to spring this on him when he finally made it back.
When I went downstairs, I realized it was later that I thought. I ran into Mrs. Whitaker, the boardinghouse owner, and she told me everyone had eaten, but there was a plate on the stove for me. I wasn't really hungry, so I just grabbed a piece of bacon and a biscuit and headed outside.
Since Mary wouldn't let Billy play with me for the next 2 weeks, I didn't have anything to do. I decided find the guys and spend the day with them. Snuggling up in one of their laps sounded real good right now.
I checked the sheriff's office, the store and the livery but couldn't find anyone. So, I headed over to the saloon. Since I wasn't allowed in there, I peeked through the crack and saw Ezra sitting at a table playing solitaire. None of the other's were there. *That explains why I was allowed to sleep late* I shifted from foot to foot trying to decide if I should risk Chris's wrath and go in and ask Ezra where everyone was. I didn't want another spanking, so I just stood outside and waited for someone to show up.
Ezra was sitting at the table dealing himself a game of solitaire when he saw two little feet appear in the doorway. *Ah, our young princess has awakened. * He watched in amusement as the weight shifted from foot to foot. He knew she was trying to decide of she should risk getting into trouble by coming inside and decided to rescue her.
He looked over the top of the door. "True?"
She looked up. "Would you like to join me?" he asked.
She smiled and nodded her head.
"Well then, come on."
To part 2