36Ay wassup y'all! Forzarismo is here with another chapter of Bad Business For The Hometown Girl! I thank y'all for your patience, real life stuff got in the way, and had most of this chap done for a while but I've found the time to finish it all up! I hope y'all enjoy!
Chapter 4: Makings Of A Legend
"YOU MUST LISTEN TO ME! SHE'S NOT WHO YOU THINK! SHE'S A DEMON!" Colm screams from the chair he's sitting in, with all of us watching from afar as the executioner grants Colm the privilege to say his final words.
It's now midday today, the night having passed quickly once I collected all of that precious Blackwater loot into my inventory, heading over to the nearest hotel, renting out a room for myself and getting myself all cleaned up after getting dirty searching for the infamous stash of the Van Der Linde Gang.
About half an hour before the execution was set to take place I noted that some of the Pinkertons were out and about setting the whole thing up, with their actions bringing in a small crowd that slowly got larger and larger as the minutes went by. Soon enough though, Colm was brought out, or rather dragged out, considering his limbs are pretty much useless now, and have him sitting on the chair they have set up for him before wrapping the noose around his neck. At first he was shaking quite a bit, looking manic from where I am standing, but soon enough we locked eyes with one another and I couldn't help but smirk at the soon-to-be dead man, who went absolutely ballistic at the sheer sight of my presence.
Suffice to say everybody is thinking he's gone off the deep end, with even the executioner looking on at Colm with pity.
As he is soon gagged by one of the other officials there, I begin to look towards the outskirts of the town to see if any O'Driscolls are about to make a surprise entrance in an effort to save their leader. Holding onto my new weapon firmly, I am quite happy about the new purchases I made.
[Carcano Rifle - Common, B-Rank]
Rifle of choice for both holy and unholy ambition, it has been said that discretion is the better part of valor, and no more valor is exhibited than that of a man hiding behind a rock and taking out his enemies when they least suspect it. You can find no better rifle than the Carcano Rifle. The Sireno Carcano is a long scoped bolt-action rifle that can hold several rounds at once. When combined with the fast firing rate and quick reload speed, this makes it ideal for facing several enemies in long-distance combat. This rifle has an ammo capacity of seven rounds.
Damage: 101 HP per bullet
Ammo Capacity: 7 rounds
Rate of fire: Dependent on DEX
Durability: 400/400
[Burgess Shotgun - Common, B-Rank]
The only concealable shotgun in the market, incredibly useful when you want to ensure your target is dead up close and personal without anyone finding out before it's too late. The first shotgun specifically designed to be a fighting weapon instead of a sporting arm, Burgess' shotgun was patented in January of 1893 and first appeared on the market in 1894. Its compact configuration was specifically intended for use by messengers, bank guards, police, cavalry troops, and others who could exploit the handiness of a compact shotgun. The size was complemented by the gun's unique folding mechanism, which allows it to be holstered not unlike a sidearm, especially when taking into consideration how light the weapon is, totaling up to only six pounds. This shotgun has an ammo capacity of six rounds.
Damage: 360 HP per Shell, 72 per pellet
Ammo Capacity: 6 rounds
Rate of fire: Dependent on DEX
Durability: 325/325
[Elephant Rifle - Common, A-Rank]
The Elephant Gun Rifle from Mühlberg is a marvel of manufacturing and has been likened to holding a cannon. Fire it and see if you are still standing or able to hear anything other than ringing for several days. While boasting a higher stopping power than nearly every other gun available on the market, it is stopped short of being one's first choice by its two round capacity.
Damage: 380 HP per bullet
Ammo Capacity: 2 rounds
Rate of fire: Dependent on DEX
Durability: 560/560
[Schofield Revolver x2 - Common, B-Rank]
Every man prefers a revolver or a companion that is strictly first class in every respect. While second or third class can often suffice in desperation or the dark of night, no truer model of revolver exists. If you vote something a nuisance, there is no better way to dispatch it. The powerful Hutton & Baird Schofield is an accurate revolver with high damage, making a good choice for any serious gunslinger. Despite a slower firing rate and reload speed, when compared with other revolvers, it can still be dual wielded to great effect. This gun has an ammo capacity of six rounds.
Damage: 46 HP per bullet
Ammo Capacity: 6 rounds
Rate of fire: Dependent on DEX
Durability: 200/200
Yeah, I may have splurged on myself for a bit, but when one has the amount of money I do now, I think I can definitely spend some cash to treat myself. Getting myself a new outfit was one of the first things I did. I appreciate the clothes Sadie gave me, but I prefer to get new clothes tailored to me and my tastes. Getting a pair of dark jeans and some black leather chaps, I wear them together with a new pair of dark red leather boots that match with my vest. I also got myself some fingerless leather gloves to help maintain my grip on my weapons while also not limiting finger sensitivity. As for a hat, I got what they called a Kennedy Hat which is what I am currently wearing and is helping in keeping the sun out of my eyes.
And this is just my current outfit, I got a bunch more combinations that I have bought that are currently stored in my inventory. I also bought Arthur some better weapons, a Litchfield and a Carcano along with two boxes of Express and High Velocity Ammo for each weapon, since if I remember correctly he somehow lost his gear along the way of escaping from Blackwater with the rest of his gang. Might as well arm him up a bit to get in the good graces of my favorite video game character!
But enough about that, time to go back to paying attention again to see if there are any O'Driscolls planning on rescuing their boss. To my surprise they actually didn't come, and the execution went off without a hitch. Watching Colm's lifeless body dangle from the noose, I tip my hat to him and walk away from the scene, noting a photographer nearby taking pictures of the execution.
"Psst! Hey, do you mind taking an extra photo of him for me?" I ask the man taking the photo, my sudden appearance making him yelp in surprise.
"What the-!? Oh, don't scare me like that miss! I don't want to ruin the shot!" The photographer remarks, looking at me a bit miffed.
I roll my eyes at his response. "I'll pay you two dollars."
His demeanor immediately changed, with him suddenly being all smiles and cheer. "Well, what are you waiting for!? C'mon, let's take that picture!"
Walking towards the corpse of Colm, who is now being let down from his noose, I walk up to the nearest Pinkerton Agent and thankfully they all know that I am the one who brought him in. "Ms. Herrera, what is it you want?"
"Can I take a couple of photos with the dead man? It shouldn't take too long I promise you." I ask politely, clasping my hands together to show that I would really appreciate it if he would let me.
The agent is taken aback by my request, and looks at me a little weirdly. "Uh… sure? Just a couple pictures."
I smile at him and shake his hand as thanks, and turn back to the photographer following me. "Okay, I got a couple of poses planned, I hope you don't mind? I wanna get this done before the body stiffens too much."
And so, I spent about five minutes or so posing alongside a dead Colm O'Driscoll while the photographer took photos. Most of these poses were serious in nature, but I will admit I may have also done some in a goofy fashion. After paying the photographer his cash I promised him, he gave me my photos and I went off on my merry way to head back to the gang. It's already been a day since I left to go get Colm's bounty, and I can't keep them waiting. Unfortunately this time isn't like what I am used to, what with cell phones not being a thing and I can't text Arthur or Hosea to let them know that I am currently chilling in Blackwater many times richer than I would've been originally even in my original Earth.
Getting Alegria unhitched from the post I put her, I signal her to follow me as I head for a nearby saloon for me to sit in and to write a letter. Walking in, it's immediately apparent that my presence is more than noted by the people lounging in here. Ignoring them, I walk to a nearby table and pull out a pen and paper from my satchel, beginning to write a letter out to either Dutch or Arthur.
Dear newly-made compatriots, this is Felicia writing this letter to those in the know. I just want to let you know that I have been successful with dispatching Colm O'Driscoll and bring proof that he will no longer be a problem! I send my horse Alegria forth to deliver this message as I am currently enjoying my time here in Blackwater, plus getting myself some proper supplies and a wagon to keep it all in.
Despite the fact that there are just as many Pinkertons here as there are everyday people, as long as they don't think you're a criminal all is well! Might as well take advantage of the fact that they don't know I am affiliated with y'all yet. Small piece of advice however, try not to do any serious crimes as they are getting ready to head through Ambarino. No need to get any extra heat on y'all while the gang's recuperating.
I'll be back soon and will be sure to give y'all your cut(meaning you, Dutch and Arthur). In the meantime, I will be sending Alegria ahead to let you all know that I am fine.
Best Wishes, Felicia Herrera-Cortez
Finishing up the letter, I place the pictures I've taken on top of the letter and neatly fold the paper to hold said photos in place before placing the paper parcel into an envelope.
"Well miss, I heard you're the one who did in the infamous outlaw Colm O'Driscoll. Guess he got what was coming to him." A man's gravelly voice says suddenly, taking my attention away from my now finished mail and turning to see who it is that is talking to me. It takes me a moment, but as I take a good look at the man speaking to me, I can't help but feel my eyes widen. He may be significantly younger than when first originally shown, but the way his hair and mustache is styled not to mention that look of aloofness…
There's no doubt in my mind, that's Landon Ricketts.
"Landon Ricketts… never thought I'd get to meet the legend himself. What can I do for you?" I inquire, feeling quite excited at seeing such a legendary figure within the world wanting to speak with me.
"I heard the tale of you bringing in Colm O'Driscoll all the way from Ambarino to here. Why didn't you take him to the Capitol of Ambarino? I reckon most bounty hunters try to turn in their bounties as fast as possible, not go out of their way to go to another state and bring them there. Why is that?" He questions, the tone of his voice giving me insight that he is more curious than anything, and likely wants to fill in the gaps from what the rumors are telling him.
"Well, there two reasons why I brought him over here to Blackwater than to Bartholomew. The first and most important of which is the fact that there are so many Pinkertons running around that escape is essentially impossible. Each and every man under their employ as far as I can see are armed to the teeth, and look to be preparing for something big. What that something is, I don't know, but what I do know is they have the manpower to ensure that Colm wouldn't make it back to his gang." I start off, explaining my official reasoning as to why I have brought Colm over here instead of heading back directly to Ambarino.
"I see… and how exactly did you come to find out that there Pinkertons here in Blackwater?" Landon asks, his head tilted slightly as he meets my gaze with his own.
I couldn't help but chuckle at that. "C'mon, even you should know that news travels fast thanks to not only the trains, but the telegram. While I was in Bartholomew turning in the bounties of Flaco Hernandez and his gang, I read the newspaper and it not only told me about the botched robbery initiated by the Van Der Linde Gang, but that there was an influx of Pinkertons that showed up… along with you helping them run out the gang from this city. What made you take action?" I first explain to him how I knew about the Pinkertons in a way that makes sense before then asking him a question of my own.
Ricketts grimaced, looking as if he just had something sour. "When their leader, Dutch Van Der Linde, when he shot and killed that innocent girl… I knew I had to take action. No innocent person should go out the way she did, what that criminal did is downright reprehensible, and I knew I needed to do something before it got worse for everybody. I shot a few of them, don't remember their names, but one of them is in custody with the Pinkertons last I've seen him, has quite the mouth on him he does."
Huh, so Mac Callander is still alive? Good to know. Will definitely help me getting even more into the gang's good side and making myself integral to their survival if I come back to them with Mac Callander in tow.
"I see… I see age has only made you better at using your piece unlike with many others." I joke, making him chuckle as he leans into his chair, his posture finally relaxing since we have met.
"You may think so, but being young certainly has its perks. But returning to what we were speaking of originally, what is your second reason as to why you brought Colm all the way over here?" Landon presses on, awaiting my response as he takes his hat off and lays it over the table.
"Well, if you must know, my second reason as to why I brought Colm all the way over here instead of taking him to Bartholomew, is because I caught him towards the edges of Ambarino. I was literally closer to Blackwater than I was to the Capitol. There would be no point in heading back through the snow and needlessly make my horse work harder when I can just head towards warmer country and give myself some relaxation from the snow before I inevitably head back." I reply, with Ricketts humming in response, his eyes spacing out as if he is pondering something.
He suddenly gets up, placing his hat back on his head. "Follow me, I got something to show you."
"Alright, let me just send my horse on an errand real quick." I respond, following Ricketts out of the saloon before turning to Alegria who is waiting for me patiently. "Hey Alegria, I just need you to head back to Arthur okay? Hand him this letter and make sure he receives his package. Get to him as fast as possible. Also make sure nobody in this town sees you in your true form. Thank you very much, here's some oatcakes for you to snack on along the way okay?" I whisper to Alegria, who nods as I safely secure Arthur's gift and the envelope on my saddle before Alegria trots off and navigates her way through the street.
Turning back to Landon Ricketts, he looks at me with bewilderment as his eyes shift from me to Alegria. "I thought you were jesting about sending your horse to run an errand for you. Huh… you learn something new everyday." Landon remarks, looking quite impressed by Alegria. "Come now, best not to take any longer than we have to. The sun's quite bright today."
Looking up to the sky, I note that it is a bit warm today, and looking at my system's clock it appears to be one thirty in the afternoon. Alright, let's see what he has to offer. Walking beside the older man, I glance around my surroundings, watching as I see the residents of this frontier city mingling about with one another. I see a couple of old folk playing dominoes on a table outside of a store, I see two women gossiping while their children play about on the side of the street. At one point a dog walked up to me with a wagging tail, and I couldn't help but coo at the Mott's adorableness. After giving the dog some deer jerky he followed us for a bit before being called back by his owner, a portly old man who was appreciative of us treating his dog kindly.
"Now the place I am taking you is but a ways away from Blackwater, I certainly hope you don't mind the small trek?" Ricketts says, going up to unhitch his horse.
"Not at all." I reply, and looking at my current stats I'd say I am pretty much set to traverse long distances in a short amount of time.
"Good, because I doubt my horse can handle the two of us together for that length of time." he remarks, and I can't but feel a bit ticked by what he said.
"Oh… don't mind me, by all means… go full speed. I'll keep up." I growl out.
"I don't like the way you said that, but alright." And with that said, Landon Ricketts clicks his heels onto the horse's underside and lets out a 'hyah!' and there he goes. Idly looking at their slowly shrinking figures, I glance towards my internal clock and decide to give the old man a ten second head start.
Tapping my feet on the dusty ground, I watch as those seconds tick by, noting that Landon's horse is faster than the average horse here. Wonder what breed it is? Oh would you look at that! Ten seconds have passed. Crouching slightly, I spring myself forward and begin sprinting as fast as I can. Hey game?
Yes?
Can I get a speedometer to see how fast I am truly going?
Fine.
You have received The Speedometer Feature! What measurement would you like to be shown?
Kilometers per hour please, after playing so many racing simulators I've grown to prefer that as my measurement.
Your speedometer is set for Km/H! Your current speed is: 143.7 Km/H!
I'm going that fast!? And I don't even feel like I am exerting myself all that much to be honest, in all reality I put more effort jogging before I got my powers compared to now. As much as I'd like to test out how far I can really push it and find out my true top speed, imma just let myself get used to this speed-oh shit hill!
I feel my body go airborne as feet fail to touch the ground, making me look down and-oh look, Landon Ricketts is just below me. I can't help but grin at his shocked expression. "Keep up old man!" I tell him before turning my attention back to what's in front of me, just so that way I don't accidentally trip or hit something while running.
Thankfully though I didn't, as it was all just plains covered sparsely with trees. Noting that there's a point where the road divides into two, I slid to a stop right where it splits. Looking back towards where I last saw Ricketts, I notice him quite far from where I'm standing, I'd give or take a minute or two before he catches up. "Surprised?" I can't help but quip with a grin once he finally catches up.
Ricketts just stares at me with wonder. "Who are you…?"
My grin widens. "I'm just a woman trying to make a change everywhere I go. Now, where is it you're trying to take me?"
Much Later With Arthur…
Getting off one of the spare horses that the gang has around, thanks to Charles' help we've been able to get some more meat on the table, with the deers we hunted being more than enough to help keep us well fed alongside the Elk Felicia hunted down. Looking towards the sky I note that the sun is setting, and I can't help but note that Felicia hasn't returned yet. What gives? Is she still tailing Colm? Or did something happen to her and are we none the wiser. The thought of that makes me feel angry, Felicia has been nothing but kind, considerate, and helpful since she became part of the gang. While sure, her size does make her a tad imposing, you get over it after talking with her for a bit.
Honestly, the thought of it makes me feel angry at myself for letting her go through with something so stupid.
"C'mon, let's get these over to Pearson. Oh, and uh, thank you for showing me how to use a bow properly." I tell Charles, getting the deer off of the horse and over my shoulder.
"I only showed you a little. Takes a lifetime of practice to master." Charles replies, his footsteps audibly coming closer as we both head to Pearson where he still has the pot burning.
"Well, well, well…" Pearson calls out to Charles and I, moving away from the entrance and motioning his hand to show us where to put the deer. "Just drop it down in here."
Heading towards the spot Pearson directed me towards, I take note that Pearson isn't the only one here. "What a surprise… to find the camp rat loitering around in the kitchen."
"Is that any way to greet an old friend? I feel like we haven't spoken in days." Uncle chides, holding a bottle of hooch in his hands.
"I do my utmost to avoid you." I state back, placing my hands near the fire to regain the feeling my fingers have lost from all this damn cold.
"He loves me really… Its his sad way of showing affection." Uncle says condescendingly, and I can't help but feel more irritated with him cracking jokes during a time like this.
"No it isn't. Now shoot, get lost." I tersely order him, bringing my hands closer to the warmth the fire brings.
Hearing him groan, from the corner of my sight I see Uncle getting up. "Well, see you gents later." He says before walking off.
Pearson then walks towards the pot, facing Charles and I in a jubilant manner. "See you got on just fine." Pearson comments, taking out a bottle of alcohol from I don't know where.
"Charles is a wonder." I compliment the man, feeling a bit better now that the annoyance that is Uncle is no longer here to "grace" us with his presence.
"Have a drink boys… you earned it." Pearson thanks as he gives me the bottle that is in his hands.
Taking the bottle, I take a sip and my tongue is bombarded with a flavor that I don't think I can truly appreciate, quickly forcing the liquor down my throat. "Jesus, what is that?" I can't help but question, handing the bottle down to Charles who takes it despite my reaction.
"Navy run sir… It's the only thing, the only thing! Hahaha! Keeps you same it does." Pearson laughs, taking the bottle back from Charles after he himself took a swig of his own before sitting down on the chair behind him.
"Yes, seems to have done a treat on you. You go rest that hand Charles." I blithely remark, before turning my attention to Charles and his burned hand.
"I'll be fine in a few days." Charles waves off.
"You mind helping me with the skinning, Mr. Morgan? It's easier if we do it together." Pearson requests, taking another swig at that bottle filled with whatever in God's name makes Navy Rum.
"Do I get to skin you?" I inquire, taking my eyes away from the fire and staring at Pearson.
"...You're always one with the jokes aren't you? C'mon." Pearson brushes off, looking at me with a smirk before getting up and walking towards the deer Charles brought.
"This really isn't a job for a man with a burnt hand. I'll see you both later." Charles says before walking away and heading back to the cabin he and the other men are resting.
"You skin that one y-you dumped on the floor there." Pearson says as he begins skinning the other deer.
Walking over to the deer I killed, I pull out my knife and begin to skin it by creating an incision on the top of its chest. Swiftly moving my blade all the way across its underside, I do my best to peel off the skin in an even manner so as to not cause any tearing. After about three or so minutes, I just about finished skinning the whole dear and pull off the skin off of it.
"Not too bad, Mr. Morgan. Yeah… they always said you were a butcher. You know you could trade these or sell these in pretty much any town… if you're looking to make a legitimate but of money of course." Pearson explains, taking the deer skin off of my hands and storing it in a box under the table.
"Right now I'm just looking to get off this mountain alive." I reply, walking towards Pearson as he sets up the metal hanger for the deer he was working on.
"Yeah, well if you catch anything else… you bring it to me." Pearson says, moving out of the way as I grab the carcass and go to hang it.
"Sure." I say, walking over to the wall and hanging the carcass.
"Thank you Mr. Morgan. Heck, Arthur Morgan's first decent bit of hunting, after all these years." Pearson jokes, taking a quick breather.
"Yeah, well we're on the run now… everyone's gotta do their bit to survive. Just make a good stew, folk need it. It's been a tough few days." I give my final say before walking away from the makeshift kitchen Pearson has set up for himself. Walking out, I let out a breath I didn't know I was holding, looking at the blizzard surrounding me with contempt. The longer I stay here, the more I hate the snow. Can't wait for all this to settle so we can get the hell out of here.
A distorted neigh in the distance catches me off-guard, and I can't help but pause in my tracks as I turn towards the direction I heard the noise come from. Peering down the entrance of this abandoned mining town, I note a soft glow that looks to be in the shape of-WHAT IN THE HELL!?
Quickly pulling my gun out from its holster, I take aim at the large horse-like beast rapidly approaching, not taking any chances when it comes to not just my survival, but for the gang as well. There was a bright ball of fire that engulfed the beast, nearly blinding me with its sheer brightness. Not taking any chances, I throw myself behind a large boulder in an effort to shield me from what's coming, only to be met with an uncomfortable silence that has me tense. Peering over the snow-covered boulder, I no longer see the large horse-beast engulfed in flames, but rather Felicia's horse… and the snow surrounding it is evaporating away, creating steam all around it.
Slowly getting up from my cover, I carefully approach the horse, and from the corner of my eye I see Pearson standing frozen in fear, but despite all that the horse, Alegria is her name if I remember correctly, is just silently waiting for me to approach. Her neck twists around in an unnatural manner towards the saddle, and I stop from getting any closer just in case anything else unexpected happens. I hear some shuffling coming from her saddle, and I slowly walk around the abnormal horse to get a better look at what she is doing. Her head turns back, holding a package wrapped in cloth in her mouth as she trots over to me, and I feel a sigh of relief escape me before I place my revolver back in its holster.
"You gave us a damn scare girl, what was that?" I tell the horse, noting that on top of the package is an envelope. Taking the package from her mouth, I am surprised to see Alegria give me a small bow before turning around and walking away, suddenly being engulfed in flames before disappearing from my sight.
…
What in God's name is happening right now…?
"Arthur! What the hell was that!?" Pearson's exclamation brings me out of my stupor, turning to him I see that this whole experience has him frightened and on the edge, considering how his hands are shaking while holding that knife of his.
I hand him the parcel that Felicia gave me while I open the letter.
Dear newly-made compatriots, this is Felicia writing this letter to those in the know. I just want to let you know that I have been successful with dispatching Colm O'Driscoll and bring proof that he will no longer be a problem! I send my horse Alegria forth to deliver this message as I am currently enjoying my time here in Blackwater, plus getting myself some proper supplies and a wagon to keep it all in.
Despite the fact that there are just as many Pinkertons here as there are everyday people, as long as they don't think you're a criminal all is well! Might as well take advantage of the fact that they don't know I am affiliated with y'all yet. Small piece of advice however, try not to do any serious crimes as they are getting ready to head through Ambarino. No need to get any extra heat on y'all while the gang's recuperating.
I'll be back soon and will be sure to give y'all your cut(meaning you, Dutch and Arthur). In the meantime, I will be sending Alegria ahead to let you all know that I am fine.
Best Wishes, Felicia Herrera-Cortez
Noting the photographs in the letter, I take a look at them and dumbfounded at the fact that not only is Felicia alright, but she did indeed accomplish what she said she'd do and brought Colm down and into the hands of the law.
…Heh… I can't help but smile and feel relief at this. "Pearson, c'mon let's get out of this blizzard and back into some shelter.
"Arthur, w-what's going on!?" Pearson asks, being just as scared as he is thoroughly confused at the moment.
"That, Pearson was Felicia's horse coming here to give us an update of her current whereabouts. She's in Blackwater, and she just took down Colm O'Driscoll. Can I see what's in that package over there?" I inform Pearson before asking for the package. Noting the length and shape of the package, I can easily hazard a guess as to what's in it. Unwrapping the package, I am met with the sight of a repeater and a scoped rifle in my hands along with some boxes of ammunition. "Well I'll be… that is… mighty kind of her…"
"We should let Dutch know." Pearson says, still wary about what happened.
When he said that, the thought did cross my mind, but the more I thought about it the more hesitant I felt. I mean, sure the letter is meant to be received by either Dutch or I, but even then I don't know how he would've reacted to the sight of a massive flaming horse. "...I'll do that. However, don't spread this out to the others. It'd be best if we keep this private."
"I want to ask why, but I know better than to question you about this sort of stuff. I personally think you should let Hosea know. He has just as much authority as Dutch. I'm going to head back to making that stew… get some rest Arthur." Pearson says, heading back to his kitchen while I go back to the cabin Hosea, Dutch, and I are staying at.
Heading through the door, I take note of Hosea resting on a chair all by himself, the quarters to Dutch's room being closed, letting me know that he is likely resting alongside Molly. "Hello Arthur, how are you faring?"
"Hey Hosea. Just finished hunting with Charles. Got more food for us to eat." I reply, taking a seat next to him as I place my newly-gifted weapons down beside me.
Of course, Hosea immediately takes note and eyes them curiously. "Where'd you get those Arthur? They look a bit too new to belong to any O'Driscolls."
A sigh leaves my mouth before I can even stop it. "No, no… they were a gift… from our newest member."
Hosea nods, smiling slightly as he leans back on his chair. "Felicia right? Lovely and helpful lass she is. How'd she do with her hunt for Colm? I take it she wasn't successful?"
I shake my head, chuckling a bit before I take out the photos she sent. "The opposite really. Take a look at these. These were taken earlier today." I tell Hosea before handing him the stack of photos.
Hosea takes a look at them and I notice his eyes widen before erupting into laughter. "Hahahaha! Who would've thought, Dutch's worst enemy brought down by our newest member. Maybe this is a sign that our luck will turn around soon?" Hosea says wistfully, staring at the photos a bit longer before returning them back to me. "So where is the lass? I reckon Dutch will want to have a party going for all that Felicia has done, even with this blizzard surrounding us."
I witheld my wince, merely nodding along while thinking of a way to let them know that Felicia didn't come, but rather sent her horse in a way that doesn't sound weird. "See here, that's the thing… she didn't come here personally. Rather, she sent her horse to run her errand while she's still in Blackwater." I explain after realizing that there really is no other way to put it.
Hosea just stares at me. "Really? She sent her horse all the way from Blackwater just to send a message and a gift?"
I do my best to remain indifferent to the incredulous tone in Hosea's voice. "Unless my eyes were lying to me this entire time, then yes."
"...How'd she train her horse to do that?"" Hosea's voice whispers, his tone more than showing how baffled he is by the whole thing.
"Your guess is as good as mine. Though regardless of that, I'm still glad that she got me these. After losing my gear while escaping Blackwater, I feel relieved that I have some weapons with some kick to them." I state, glancing at my new rifles before getting up from my chair. "Well, I best get some rest. It's been a long day. Take care Hosea."
"Wait just a moment, Arthur. I have a question I have to ask you." Hosea says suddenly, making me pause in my tracks. "Do you think she can be trusted? Right now we're in a bit of a crisis and the last thing we need is someone that'll betray the gang first chance they get."
Understanding where Hosea is coming from, I think about the couple of days that Felicia has been with us… and I just don't see any evidence both in her actions and personality that hint towards anything nefarious. "Considering the people we've had in this gang before and now, I reckon that she is trustworthy. More so than Micah anyhow." I comment.
At that Hosea sighs. "Well when you put it that way… and we had such a good scheme going too."
"Well if it makes you feel any better, Micah can't necessarily go anywhere to stay away from all the hard work." I smirk, with Hosea chuckling at that.
"So… how will Felicia get back here without her horse? She sent it all the way over here, I reckon her horse must've exhausted itself coming all the way from Blackwater in such a short amount of time." Hosea idly comments, a thoughtful look on his face. "Actually… when you think about it… how did her horse make it all the way from Blackwater in such a short amount of time? It takes days for even the fastest and hardiest of horses to traverse such a distance, let alone mere hours from what I can gather."
I slowly nod, knowing damn well how unnatural that horse of Felicia's is. "That horse of hers Hosea… it's unlike any horse I've ever seen, let me tell you. There's more to it than we know and I reckon the only way we'd get our answers would be straight from Felicia herself." I admit, grabbing my things and going towards my room, with Hosea not stopping me this time.
Closing the door, I walk towards my cot and take a seat, taking a moment to just process it all. Glancing at the new weapons in my hands, my thoughts go back to the gang's newest member.
Felicia… A woman from California separated from her family… There's definitely more to it than just that, but as long as it doesn't affect the gang it is something that can be overlooked.
Though, that being said… she has to explain her horse. A horse as unique as that can only truly belong to someone equally as unique. Wonder what she's up to?
Back With Felicia…
Okay… Old Man has some skills. No wonder he's considered a legend.
I guess a trained skill is better than an acquired skill, because while my [Gun Proficiency] skill has gone up significantly from killing many outlaws and Flaco, who he himself is a legendary gunslinger, considering what I have just learned Ricketts, I reckon I would've lost a Quickdraw duel against him because of one single thing.
Dead-Eye.
That skill is such bullshit, but I love it because it's bullshit.
Especially when you can learn said bullshit.
[Dead-Eye](Active): Lv. 3/1000
A skill only learned by the most deadly of gunslingers, You have just learned this skill and you have much to go before you master it! Time perception is slowed based in accordance to your DEX.
While Dead-Eye is active, your DEX is boosted by 60%, but will drain 20% of your SP bar per real-life second in use.
If this is merely the beginning of learning the Dead-Eye skill, then by the time I even reach a tenth of my level cap with it I will be an unstoppable beast! Yeah sure, there is the catch that I can only really use this skill for about five seconds before I am completely out of stamina, but that's more than manageable!
I doubt I'll ever put myself in a situation like that!
Placing my revolvers back in their holster, I look at Landon Ricketts with appreciation. "Thank you so much for improving my skills with the gun. You're a legend for a reason after all."
Landon in return gives me a nod of respect. "Considering what has transpired throughout the day, I reckon I should be the one who is thankful."
Okay, color me surprised. "How so?"
Landon lets out a bark of laughter. "Are you joking? You have done things that I have seen no other person ever come close to doing. This world is a vast place, filled with many things that have yet to be discovered, some of which I doubt ever will be. But considering how fast people are expanding across these vast lands, I reckon that sooner or later many of the world's secrets would be uncovered." Landon pauses for a moment, reaching for his flask before taking a swig from it. After having his quick fill, he presses on. "I believe you to be one of those mysteries that will soon become known throughout the world. You are, undoubtedly, the strongest and fastest woman to ever exist. To be able to not only outpace a horse, but to also be able to lift things that need more than four men single-handedly… I reckon your journey has merely started and there is far more that awaits you. I have taught you just some of what I know, all you need now is just to practice."
Wow… I am actually rendered a bit speechless by that. Damn… way to lay it thick. "I appreciate the aid Mr. Ricketts. I won't forget this." I go to reach into my satchel to give him some cash as thanks, but he stops me by placing his hand over my reached arm. "What?"
He shook his head. "If I did this for money, I would've asked for payment beforehand. This whole experience has been payment enough. Now I don't know if we'll ever see each other again, as I am planning on heading down south, but on the off-chance we do… I'd like to see how far you've gotten." Ricketts states before extending his hand out.
Not one to leave a person hanging, I take it with gusto. "I'm sure we'll be seeing each other again Landon. Small hiccups aside I do enjoy traveling, so I'm pretty sure I am bound to see you again sooner or later. It's getting dark, so we best be off to our destinations." And with that said, we tip our hats to one another and turn away from one another, heading back to our own destinations.
Improving upon my gunslinging skills with Landon has been nothing but fun. The old legend may be a bit curt, but he is certainly an amicable fellow once you get to know him. I already know he's headed towards Mexico so I am pretty sure I am gonna meet him again. I just gotta make time for it and hopefully not when something important happens with the Van Der Linde Gang.
Feeling a pleasant, familiar warmth envelop within my chest, I crack a grin as I feel Alegria finally return to me. Turning around to see if Landon is paying attention, I note that he is now a fair distance away. 'Alright Alegria, you can come out now but be subtle about it.' I internally whisper to her, and immediately she makes herself reappear before me in a shower of wicks that make a small crackling pop just as they disperse. "You call that subtle?" I can't help but chastise, only to be met with a funnel of flames erupting from Alegria's nostrils hitting me in the face.
As the flames disperse away from my face after being hit with them, I can't help but feel a bit baffled. I don't know whether or not that can be considered assault at this point, but I just ignore it for now. Reaching into my satchel I pull out a cob of corn and feed it to Alegria, who takes it with gusto. "You're lucky you're cute. That, and my only form of transportation. Did everything go well with giving Arthur his little gift?"
Alegria nods and poses happily, giving me her answer. "Alright then, just one more thing we need to do and we'll be heading back to Ambarino."
Later…
Heading towards the stables, I go and get Alegria hitched onto the brand new wagon I just bought. It's a bit barebones, but I plan to customize it as I travel and turn it into my own personal mobile home! For right now, all it has are two chests full of supplies, a mattress, three pillows, and two blankets.
I also had them add two wheels per axle end instead of just one, and while that may sound weird to them, I'd rather have my wagon have more grip, especially since I am having Alegria pull the wagon. Gonna need to somehow make a suspension now that I think about it… I'd rather deal with as little hard bumps as possible. A rug too, that would certainly add a nice touch.
Eh, that could wait… gotta find Mac Callander and bring him back to the gang! Taking a stroll through the dark streets of Blackwater, I make my way through the back-alleys and calmly gaze around for any whereabouts of where Mac can be held in. Hearing a door loudly open, I turn towards the noise and I see two men walking out the backdoor holding a-!
…
Shit.
That's Mac isn't it.
"Excuse me sirs? Do you need some help with that?" I calmly inquire, catching both men by surprise considering they yelped and both simultaneously dropped the body.
"Jesus Christ lady! Don't scare us like that!" The first of the guys exclaims, turning from his original position to look towards me, only to visibly freeze when his eyes meet mine. "Oh shit, its you! The Bounty Hunter everyone is talking about!"
I merely nod, doing my best to remain patient and courteous while also trying to hurry this along. "Yes, that is me. If you don't mind me asking, who is the unfortunate fella you have lying there?"
The other guy speaks up. "Eh, don't know to be frank, only that he was part of the gang that robbed the Ferry. He was already fucked as it was… they gave him mercy he didn't deserve."
Ah damn… there goes that plan. "How long has it been since he's kicked the bucket?"
The two guys looked at each other and shrugged. "Not too long ago from the looks of it. His wounds are still fresh." They unwrap the bloodied cloth around Mac's head and I can see the fresh bullet hole straight into his skull.
Man… they call that mercy? The back end of his skull is mostly gone and one of his eyes is popped out. I can't help but grimace at the sight before me before I quickly school my expression. "Hey, if y'all want I can take care of the body."
The two men look at me with a befuddled expression. "Why? This ain't your job."
"It's obvious that you guys have been working hard the entire day, likely with no break. I think y'all deserve a little time for yourselves. I don't mind picking up the slack." I tell them, and they look quite happy to see me offer to finish the job for them.
"Hey, well… since you're offering… why don't we get some drinks Cletus!" The two men just leave and go off on their merry way.
Well… that went well, they didn't even tell me where to take the body. Glancing around I note that there isn't nobody looking around, even through the windows. Granted it is about ten at night now, so most people should be in bed already. Opening up my inventory, I slide Mac's body into the glowing entrance of my inventory and start walking away as if nothing happened.
Heading out of the exit of the alleyway, I walk towards where I last left Alegria and sure enough there she is where I have left her. Going into the back of wagon, I lie down and give Alegria an order. "Take us back to Colter Alegria. Imma get some rest in the meantime." And with that said, Alegria begins trotting down the road heading towards our destination while I catch some zzzs.
Hope y'all enjoyed! Be sure to leave a review/comment so I know what y'all think!
Sincerely,
Forzarismo
November 2, 2022