[Firelands-The Beginning]

Linn Keller 9-23-07

 

Esther's hand was on my arm, and my hand was on hers, and we had eyes for each other, and very little else.
Charlie, not being handicapped as I was by the moment, had eyes for the crowd.
Jacob had eyes for the big platters of food Daisy and her crew were bringing out. She'd recruited the Irish Brigade as servers, and a good choice they were: loud, laughing, trading good-natured remarks with the crowd as they went, their red-shirted antics kept the mood festive. It took several passes to get everyone fed, and by the time the last were served, the first were ready for seconds.
Daisy's kitchen held plenty for all.
Miz Fannie had sung three songs, one while playing piano, one a sad romantic air accompanied by Fiddler Daine, and one humorous tune, a capella, that had the house laughing with high good humor. She had a fine sense of timing, and knew just how long to hold the audience's attention before the food came out on a great cloud of good smells.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Linn Keller 9-23-07

 

There were very few in the crowd who were seated.
Mr. Baxter had received each of the ladies with a hand-kiss, and a formal presentation to all assembled.
Those who were seated came to their feet.
Esther came down the stairs.
Charlie's hand was on my shoulder, and he gave an approving squeeze.
Esther was absolutely beautiful.
She wore her hair like a crown, her face shone, and she moved with the smooth grace of a dancer, or an angel.
Mr. Baxter received her with all the courtly charm of a man born to high station; he kissed her gloved knuckles, and turned, and announced her name.
I heard not one word he said.
Her eyes found mine, and the rest of the world didn't exist anymore, and for a long moment I saw her, absolutely beautiful in an emerald gown, and she smiled, and I saw nothing else.
Mr. Baxter escorted her to our table. I drew her chair back against the wall to give her room enough to be seated, and slid the chair in under her, and ignored the pain of a pinched finger where I'd drawn the chair back just a wee bit too far, with a wee bit too much vigor.
Mr. Baxter winked at me, and worked his way back through the crowd, to his polished mahogany bar.
Everyone had a glass in hand and Charlie hoisted his. "To the happy couple!" he announced in a fine voice.
"The happy couple!"
They drank.
I stood and waited while glasses were refilled.
"To a dream!" I announced. "The Silver Jewel, and all she represents!"
"The Silver Jewel!" boomed the hearty reply, and glasses were drained.
Glasses were refilled.
Esther stood, and raised her own.
"To my husband," she said simply.
"TO THE HUSBAND!" came the great shout of a reply.
There was a piano fanfare, and on the stage, Miz Fannie struck a pose.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

 

Linn Keller 9-23-07

 

The three of us were received with handshakes, back slapping and congratulations; Charlie received his congratulations with a good face, though I could see he was guarding that side, and poor Jacob had never in his life been through a receiving line -- let alone one as energetic and spontaneous as this one!
Mr. Baxter met us at the end of the bar with words of congratulations and a firm grip, and he glanced over his shoulder; smiling, he ushered us quickly to our table, at the far end of the room, with a white linen table cloth and candles, ribbons and some draped ribbon material on the wall behind the table.
Charlie looked distinctly uncomfortable. "We'll make a fine target here," he muttered.
"You can shoot back, can't you?" I said with a straight face.
Charlie glared at me and Jacob opened his coat to discreetly expose the handle of his .44 Army revolver, then buttoned his coat again.
I had not one word of complaint. I wore my Colts under my coat, and knew Charlie did the same.
I parked my Winchester against the wall behind my chair.
"Fellas, let's scoot this table out just a bit. We need to give the ladies room to get in and get set down comfortably." We cautiously eased the heavy table forward, giving us just a bit more room.
Right about then the crowd stilled, and we looked up, and Miz Fannie came floating down the stairs.
There was a general hiss of indrawn breath.
I looked off to the right. If women could spit poison like some snakes I'd heard about, Miz Fanne would be envenomed at twenty yards: for all her beauty, Clara looked pure evil in that moment.
Your true nature is showing, Clara.
Charlie hadn't missed it either.
Jacob's eyes were on Miz Fannie, and mine returned to her loveliness. We'd been introduced, I knew her to be a charming woman and a lady, and that she was old friends with Duzy and Esther ... beyond that, and her reputation as an entertainer, I didn't know much about her.
Duzy came down next. I should say she floated down next.
There are many mysteries in this world: most of them I accepted without trying to puzzle them out. I wasn't quite sure, for instance, why the moon stayed put without either falling down or drifting away, other than the will of God, but I didn't spend much time worrying about it. I had watched snakes and wondered just how they managed to move so smoothly, but again I accepted that they could, and did, and didn't worry too much as to the how.
I considered on this moment how women could float, and move forward without perceptible effort.
A mystery: I accepted it, and appreciated its beauty, and realized on some level that if I understood the mechanics of it, somehow it would lose a little of its beauty.
I contented myself with admiring the beauty of this woman, family now, or near enough to it: I wasn't sure if Duzy would become niece or cousin when Esther and I were wed, but it didn't really matter.
She was family.
Emma was next.
A man does not usually think of a schoolmarm as more than a tiny, dried, gray, invisible husk of a woman, who appears magically in front of a class of children, and teaches them all day, and then disappears until she's needed again.
Emma Jones floated down the stairs with all the grace and poise and, yes, beauty, as Duzy had.
I didn't know if her gown was of Bonnie's manufacture. I do know it made Emma all the more beautiful.
Jackson Cooper thought so.
I had to look two or three times, but yep, that was him, cleaned up, his face shaved and mustache trimmed, standing head and shoulders over most in the room: Jackson Cooper, in a good looking suit, a matching hat in hand.
Jackson Cooper, with an expression I'd never seen on his face in all the years I'd known him.
Jackson Cooper looked like he was absolutely, positively, head over heels in love.
I looked over at Charlie. He looked at me and cocked a questioning eyebrow.
Jacob murmured, "That's a schoolmarm?"
"Always did think well of education," Charlie murmured.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Linn Keller 9-23-07

 

Clara pouted.
She'd been making an utter fool out of some rancher at the bar when the first of the ladies descended the staircase, and was presented by that surprisingly good-looking bartender. Instantly Clara was forgotten, all eyes were on the lovely Miz Fannie, and Clara ground her white, white teeth in suppressed anger; just as quickly, she relaxed her fists, took a breath, and fluttered her fan to breeze her face. It took an effort to calm her expression, though nothing could calm the venom in her otherwise lovely eyes.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Linn Keller 9-23-07

 

"You up for this, Charlie?" I asked as he carefully looped the neck tie around my throat.
"Yep." He was frowning in concentration.
"You don't have to get yourself all fixed up on my account, y'know."
"I'm already dressed, now holt still!"
"I ain't felt this way in a long while, Charlie."
"I know, amigo. I only felt that way once and it scared hell out of me!"
He stepped back, frowned. "Now put on your coat."
I did.
Charlie nodded approval, and Jacob whistled.
"Good lookin' and lookin' good," he declared, and handed me my hat and my Winchester. "Let's go meet the ladies!"
We locked the office door behind us and stood, shoulder to shoulder, three men, tall and strong, full bluff warriors, well-dresssed defenders of our realm.
I took a long breath, a deep breath: squared my shoulders, drew my head erect.
My words were automatic.
"Detail! Forward, HARR!"
We paced off on the left, and advanced on the Jewel.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Mr. Box 9-22-07

 

After a couple of minutes Emma Jones appeared and again all eyes were on the staircase, or rather the lady decending it. I met her at the bottom of the staircase and offered her my arm. She took it and we proceeded to the center of the room. I bowed, kissed her hand, and announced, "Miss Emma Jones." Everyone applauded again. "Ah, what a job." I thought to myself almost out loud.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Sweet Violet 9-22-07

 

Vanity had never figured into Emma's life before, so she thought it very odd that she would have spent so much time deciding what to wear for this evening. She figured it was time to put aside her mourning dress and rejoin life, though her heart would still mourn for Aunt May and Uncle Herbert for quite some time.

Now she stood at the top of the stairs at the Silver Jewel in the sage green and cream reception gown that Mrs. Devereaux of Boston had made for one of her Father's grand receptions six months ago. Bonnie had tightened her corsette and Duzy had helped her with the clasp of Grandmother's pearl necklace. At her ears were pearl earrings that went with it. In her hair was the mother of pearl comb that had been a gift to her Mother from her Father on their wedding day. A cream ostrich fan was clasped in cream kid leather gloves that housed hands that shook.


She pressed her hand to her stomach in an attempt to calm the butterflies that seemed to have taken up residence there. She would be performing for Duzy and her guests at the Silver Jewel, but she would also be performing for him.......

Emma looked over at the ladies who she had shared a room with for over an hour getting ready for tonight. What wonderful women these were and she felt closer to them that she had anyone, save Aunt May and Uncle Herbert, in her life. Then her eyes settled on Miss Esther. "If I feel this way after only knowing Jackson for two days, I wonder what that sweet lady is feeling. I hope and pray that everything goes more than wonderful for her! She looks so very happy and so very radiant."

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Mr. Box 9-22-07

 

The ladies waiting upstairs noticed the hush.Their anticipation was so high they could see goosebumps on each other. It was going to be more than a minute before the next one came down. They were fanning themselves trying to catch their breath.
I stepped out from behind the bar and met Fannie at the bottom of the staircase. I offered my arm and led her to an open area in the center of the room where everybody could see her. I bowed, kissed her hand, and presented her to the crowd. Everyone applauded her. My heart was racing. "Three more ladies!"

 

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Mr. Box 9-22-07

 

Fannie was the first one to come down the staircase. She wasn't a third of the way down before a hush fell over the room and all eyes were on her! She floated down with poise and grace, barely showing any movement as she decended from one step to the next.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Duzy Wales 9-22-07

 

Soon, Duzy, Bonnie, Fannie, Aunt Esther and Emma were all dressed, each helping each other as they cinched corsets, oooohhh and ahhhed over what each was wearing, each helping with the other’s hair, and the ornaments that adorned it, clasping jewelry for each other, and finally looking at each other with approval. They were all having such a wonderful time together, that even if the evening before them wasn’t to be so exciting, the camaraderie between the ladies was worth more than either could put into words!

Each one had been discussing Liam McKenna and Clara, and how they planned to handle whatever might be coming. Duzy was to “play his game” to find out what she could, Bonnie would figure out how to react to his introduction, depending on what he did, Emma would be performing, Aunt Esther and Fannie would be watching and listening whenever they could, as would Emma when she could……but this was Aunt Esther’s night, and that is why they all planned together to keep anyone from spoiling it for her. As far as Clara was concerned, they all agreed a closet would be a good place to stuff her, gagged and bound, until it was over, if she even tried to start anything! Who would believe her over the rest of them? Especially, Sheriff Keller, tonight, as his eyes would be on Aunt Esther. They all laughed, as they planned! Fannie placed her hands on her hips and said, “I will take care of Clara tonight if she even begins anything that will ruin your night, Esther.” Esther thanked Fannie, and Duzy thought she had never seen her Aunt look as beautiful in all her life. Linn would think she was ravishing! Esther was dressed in the emerald green and black outfit, and was absolutely glowing, from the inside out, as she thought of Linn Keller on his knees before her, oh how she loved that man, she admitted to them! It was a feeling of love and warmth as they made any last minute adjustments.

Secretly, Emma was hoping that Jackson Cooper would come. Duzy wished Jake Thomas could be there. Bonnie’s hope was that Liam didn’t cause trouble and that she and Caleb could enjoy the night, as Maude Stevens had agreed to keep Sarah for the evening, Fannie was ready for anything, and Aunt Esther’s anticipation was at it’s highest level!

They decided to descend the stairs, one by one, with a minute or so between each other, leaving Aunt Esther for last, as the party began.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Mr. Box 9-22-07

 

Firelands had been busy all day, but as the afternoon wore on it just got busier and busier. The bar was getting quite busy itself. There was a very pleasant aire about the crowd except that McKenna feller over in the corner. Everytime I glanced over his way he seemed to be deep in thought about something with a disagreeable expression on his face.
I was sliding beers down the bar like I'd been doing it for years. It really helped having that little rough spot smoothed out. Having the mugs full was a lot different than doing it empty. I always had to be sure I started the slide off smooth and not slosh the head all over the bar. It took me a few times to get the head just right when I started. Now it is easier.
Duzy came to just before she went up to get dressed for the evening, "I've got something special back in the spring room for when Linn proposes to Aunt Esther. I want you to get it out in time for that. Use these glasses for it."
"Yes, Miss Duzy. I'll keep an eye out for it. Give me a nod if you can."

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Lady Leigh 9-22-07

 

Liam exited the Silver Jewel and headed toward his private box car. "Tonight, Bonnie, you beloved cousin has come to capture your heart!"

Maniacal laughter followed.

Three others watched him walk away from the Silver Jewel. Caleb from his bedroom window, Fannie from hers, and Linn from down the street.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Lady Leigh 9-22-07

 

"Oh, Caleb!" Bonnie was beside herself with how wonderfully the opening day to 'House of McKenna' turned out. "I wouldn't have guessed the enthusiasm of the women in a thousand years, Caleb!"

"Surely you suspected, Bonnie ..."

"No! I didn't! Seriously, I truely didn't! ..... Caleb! I need to think about finding some help! You and I can't do it alone. Not with what we saw today!"

"Mama? I could help a little! Maybe not with the sewing, but I could help clean and I can show the women Dolly's new clothes and that would help!" Sarah had a wonderful day, and her enthusuiasm alone would carry 5 people.

"You just may have found yourself a job for after school Sweets." Oh how Bonnie loved this child ...

Caleb was walking Bonnie and Sarah over to the Silver Jewel so that they could all change for the evening festivities. "Bonnie?"

"Yes."

"What are you going to do with the house?"

"Why live there, of course! Why?"

"Well, with Esther, Duzy and Tilly here at the Silver Jewel, that leaves you and Sarah at the house alone."

"And your point is, Caleb?"

"Just don't think it is a good idea, that's all."

"Because of Liam McKenna?"

"Partly ... I'd just feel better if you were with people. Especially until we hear, or know more about this Liam fellow."

"I understand ... but Caleb, I really don't think he'd do anything rash, do you? I mean, really, if he's here because he wants something, he certainly wouldn't make waves ... would he?"

They stopped in the street, and Caleb looked at Bonnie, "Haven't you ever had a feeling so strong, but couldn't pin point it?"

"Yes ... but not like the ones Duzy feels. I have to admit, what she has said about her dreams are frightening, Caleb. I do believe he is up to something, but he has yet to introduce himself. I am beginning to wonder how long we have to play this game! It's annoying!" Bristled, Bonnie started walking again, and Sarah and Caleb moved quickly to catch up. "Let's just get ready for tonight, Ok? I don't want to think about Liam McKenna at the moment. Let's just see what he does, and take it from there, OK?"

This was a side of Bonnie he remembered seeing when she was a child. She'd set her jaw, and become bullheaded, and there was no reasoning with her. Caleb knew she worried. He knew she was not putting Liam McKenna out of her mind. He also knew that she was tired of the hastles life had thrown her way. Todays business success did Bonnie the world of good. That is what she wanted to revel in, not the 'could be doom' that may, or may not be pending.

"Fine, Bonnie ... forgive me for bringing your wonderful day down a level. That was not my intention."

"I know Caleb .... I just want to put that pretty dress on and continue this fairy tale dream ... "

Inside, the three went up the stairs, Caleb turning toward his own room, and Bonnie and Sarah in the direction of Duzy's.

Downstairs, tucked into a darkish corner, Liam watched the three walk in the main door and take the stairs up one step at a time. "Why is that kid always with her?" Liam thought. He certainly knew her three year experience at Sam's Place, but he never heard about her having a kid.

Actually, Liam's mood was at an all time anger level. Today he found out why he hadn't heard anything from Luke Hawkins. It was because Luke got himself killed. That made Liam wonder if Luke's cover had been found out. If that were the case, Liam's own plans would need to be altered.

Then there was Clara. Liam was finding her to be good at only one thing ... other than that, she was becoming a problem. Liam didn't want the towns people associating her with himself. Clara was going to be trouble, and Liam needed to find a way to remove her. Then he thought about his own lustful needs. He thought maybe keeping her around until he could get close ... 'real close' to that Duzy Wales.

Liam drummed his fingers on a table top that was close by. He had to befriend Bonnie first ... and the brat if it was Bonnie's ... and then he'd have the ability to get close to the Wales *****. Then it would be bye bye to Clara, then to Bonnie ... and hello to Duzy Wales and financial freedom.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Duzy Wales 9-22-07

 

Duzy made it up to her room and reached for the beautiful emerald green outfit she would be wearing. The detail of the outfit was amazing and Duzy could hardly wait to make her entrance down the stairway. She was hoping to catch Liam McKenna’s attention tonight and see what she could find out about the man, although secretly she wished that Jake Thomas was there, as well.

Duzy had checked on Aunt Esther who was like a drill sergeant in the kitchen, only her Aunt could get the point across by using a soothing voice and soft manner or sometimes just a look in the right direction. Each way she turned, she was asking someone to do this or that and the foods in the kitchen were beginning to smell delightful. “Duzy, honey, you run on and start getting ready, everything is under control here! I will be up to change later.

Bonnie had been taking orders since opening her shop, with Caleb by her side, already having enough orders to keep both of them busy and Bonnie already thinking they may need to hire help, if the orders kept coming in.

Sarah was playing in front of the shop with the other children! Emmett was painting the children’s faces, and some looked like Indians, with war paint, while others were clowns, or some with rainbows or hearts, or whatever the child could think of, he could paint it to their delight! He had found some roots and mixed paints that he jokingly said “if it doesn’t wash off, it will wear off!” Duzy wasn’t sure but what he was serious and Miss Emma would have a class full of painted faces come Monday morning! Many couples had him draw their likeness on paper, and although he did not ask for money, his shirt pocket was beginning to overflow. Gailen Daine had gotten an unused spittoon from the saloon and jokingly sat it beside him.

Tilly was managing the hotel like a well oiled machine, making sure everyone was taken care of, and had anything they needed, with the help of the other women she had hired, plus the porter, a male, who could handle the baggage better. Duzy made a mental note to ask his name, as she couldn’t remember it at the moment!

Daisy and Sean worked side by side in her kitchen, as it had become to busy for her to handle, even with Sally helping with the tables. She had closed the kitchen after the noon meal, leaving it spotless for Esther to start her evening meal.

Mr. Baxter was sliding drinks down the bar as fast as they were ordered, never missing the outreached hand. He looked handsome in a white shirt and vest, with a bow tie and apron over dark pants, and his shoes shined. The player piano had been playing off and on all day, along with Nelson Daine playing the fiddle, if anyone asked, or if he took the notion to do so! Money was being exchanged at the gambling tables and some would be going home broke, but having had a good time, and others would be leaving with a little extra money!

So far, the grand opening was a real success and no one had been arrested nor anyone had caused any trouble that Duzy had heard about.

Duzy asked for a warm bath, and was soon soaking; relaxing her muscles, and had set it up that Emma would get the next bath, in Duzy’s room, so she could prepare for the evening. Fannie was in her room getting dressed and Bonnie was closing shop for the day to dress for the evening. It had been a wonderful day and soon the real festivities would begin

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Linn Keller 9-22-07

 

Jackson Cooper was a lonely man, and like lonely men, he tended to think out loud. Sometimes, he'd told a partner years ago, it was easier if he threw his thoughts out on the air so he could see what they sounded like.
"Jackson," he said, "what kind of a fool quotes Shakespeare to a stranger, especially a Boston schoolmarm?"
His horse didn't answer.
He thought of her good coffee, of how vulnerable she felt in his arms, of the music in her voice. He thought of how she smelled, and how right she looked in that house.
She loves Shakespeare, he thought, and she's going to recite Shakespeare at the Grand Opening. I could watch her there.
"You don't have any decent clothes," he growled.
You have a suit, he thought, May made you that suit to wear for Herbert's funeral.
"Awright, I got a suit," he snarled.
Your boots are still new enough they'll polish up well. Emma just left the house. Get yourself moving and you can take a bath and shave and get yourself presentable for tonight.
Jackson Cooper was never one to over-think a situation. Once he arrived at a decision, he acted upon it.
It was only a few minutes at a gallop, and it was not long after that, with soap and scrub brush in hand that Jackson Cooper, reputed border raider, alleged robber of stagecoach and strongbox, was scrubbing his weather-toughened hide at the outdoor trough, until it was pink, and clean, and glowing.
He went into the house where he had once been welcomed and went upstairs, to the closet, and withdrew the suit, and hung it carefully.
Jackson Cooper knew where the straight razors and soap were kept, and the razor strop still hung beside the basin, and he carefully plied its honed edge until the figure in the mirror was considerably more presentable.
Clean, shaved, and dressed, he headed into town, wearing a hat considerably the worse for having been crushed, twisted, wrung and squeezed in moments of great duress.
He could, he reasoned, afford a new hat.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Linn Keller 9-22-07

 

Lightning looked at the unfamiliar flimsy and scratched his thinning scalp.
"Sheriff said to bring it to you. He thought it was coming through as the wire went down."
Lightning nodded. "Date's right, that's when they cut the wire. Let me take a look here." He paged through his log book. "No, it wasn't repeated."
"Can you have them re-send the message?"
"I'll give it a good try." He sat down in front of his key and began tapping his message with the ease of long practice.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Linn Keller 9-22-07

 

My muscles were slowly relaxing their tension, one by one by one, and the warm water felt so very good.
I closed my eyes and sighed.
The room was quiet, there were muted sounds from the street; footsteps out in the hall or on the stairs. Nothing exciting, which suited me fine, just fine ...
There was a tap on the door.
I looked to the Colt, in easy reach beside my copper tub. "Hello!" I called out.
"Just me, sir," Jacob replied, opening the door just enough to get his hand in. The hinges were on my side, the door opening away from me, a design I'd insisted on when we overhauled the second floor, and I was grateful now I had insisted on the change.
Jacob brought in my suit and my new boots, polished to a high shine. My new hat already hung on the hat tree by the door. "Sir, I found this in your suit pocket. Thought it might be important."
He brought over a telegraph flimsy, held it open for me to read.
I read it and frowned.
"Take that to Lightning if you would, please. I believe the wire went down as he was receiving this."
"Yes, sir," he replied. "Sir?"
"Yes, Jacob?"
"Sir, Senor Santos would like to speak with you."
I frowned. "Now?"
"Yes, sir. He said it was muy importante." He stumbled a little over the unfamiliar phrasing and tried unsuccessfully to put a small trill on his r.
"Hang a shingle on the door that says "Sheriff's Office," and send him in," I said.
"Yes, sir." Jacob went to the door, beckoned. He stepped out as Santos stepped in, sombrero in hand.
"Pardon, Jefe," he greeted me apologetically, "pero hace muy importante."
"Hablo un poco de su lingua," I replied, "pero entiendo solo un poquito."
Santos grinned in appreciation of my frank admission: though I spoke a little of his language, I understood much less. "Bueno," he replied, "hablo en Ingles."
"Gracias. Que tiene?"
His face grew serious. "El Senor McKenna, Jefe. Hace un hombre muy malo."
I nodded. "He is a bad man, and his companion, Senora Clara, is no better."
"Bruja!" Santos spat. "She rides brooms and eats children, Jefe, and unless I am much mistaken, her lovely dress hides hooves and a tail!"
"Can you give me any particulars?"
"I listen, senor. Los Yanquis, they think because I am a Texican that I understand nothing they say, and so I listen, and I learn much." Anger smoldered in his dark eyes. "He spoke of the ladies in a way no man should speak, Jefe." His fingers caressed the hilt of his great knife. "I hope for the moment that he speaks ill of nos hermanita, la Senorita Firecracker, so that I may cut his throat."
I nodded, knowing that in some jurisdictions it was still a viable defense to tell the court that someone you killed, needed killin'.
"Should you increase his smile from ear to ear," I said, "try to do it outside, in the dirt, so the ladies will not have a mess to clean up."
"Si, Jefe," he replied with a great flash of white teeth. "I am told blood makes very good fertilizer."
"I would be very interested in anything more you can tell me of el Senor McKenna, or his bruja."
"Entiendo," Santos smiled. "I will listen closely." Again that brilliant flash of teeth, and he was gone.
I soaped up my rag again and scrubbed the back of my neck, thinking. Witch, Santos had called her. Sure fit. As far as cloven hooves or a tail, I really didn't care to find out. The sooner she was out of my town, the easier I could breathe.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Duzy Wales 9-22-07

 

Fannie and Duzy had a fun breakfast together, laughing about old times, each remembering something funny the other had did. Not only had they grown up in the same area, but they had been in some of the same classes in college, as Fannie studied drama and the arts, while Duzy studied journalism.

They walked outside, into the street, and the town was bustling. Everyone was in high spirits; several ladies were already lined up in front of Bonnie’s shop waiting for her to open. “Looks like we need to go on out and get Miss Jones, Duzy said, as Bonnie may need some help!” Soon they pulled up in front of Emma’s home. Emma met them at the door with a pretty smile, and it seemed as if everything was right in the world.

“Emma, please meet my friend, Fannie Kikinshoot, Fannie, this is Miss Emma Jones! We have only met this week, but are already becoming friends. Emma, I must confess, Fannie already knows as much about you as I do, as we have been catching up the past two days!”

The ladies were soon on their way back to town with all three talking nonstop. Dawg had decided to follow them and Emma had let him sit beside her on the seat on the way back to town, reaching to pet him, as they continued to talk. Duzy wondered if Dawg had a sixth sense as well, as he surely seemed to know when danger was around. Duzy looked around and didn’t see anyone……

Duzy thought of her three red headed friends, fiery in their own way, and yet so different in others, each of them accomplished and talented and on their own. Bonnie could create with her mind and hands masterpieces from a bolt of cloth, Fannie had a flair like no one else, vivacious and exciting, who would bring a crowd to their feet, begging for one more song, as she sometimes left the stage and would sing atop a table or in someones lap, and then Emma, quieter, but someone who could speak Shakespeare from her heart and knew how to handle twenty children without a harsh word!

They reached town and left the buggy with Shorty as the three walked to "The Silver Jewel."

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Linn Keller 9-22-07

 

I had almost finished my second cup of truly objectionable coffee and was making a terrible face when someone tapped delicately on the door.
I had a sudden feeling of dread.
Girding my strength about me, I took a deep breath, lifted the bar.
It was Esther.
"You look worried," I said, and reached for her elbow.
She laid a hand on my chest. "You look sick!"
I drew her inside and pulled her to me.
Esther smelled another woman's perfume on me and pulled away and looked up at me. To my surprise she smiled, just a little.
"I saw you send her packing."
I nodded, miserable to my very soul.
Esther caressed my cheek. I would have felt better if she'd slapped me.
"Did anything happen?" she asked quietly.
I looked her squarely in the eye. "She tried."
"And?"
"She failed."
"That's all I need to know." She leaned back into me and I surrounded her with my arms.
"Esther, she made me feel so ... dirty!"
"Women of her stripe often do." She sighed. "I understand men are often tempted just before their wedding. Maybe this is just one of those temptations."
"That wasn't a temptation," I muttered, "that was an assault!"
Esther sniffed. "Is that coffee I smell?"
"If you want to call it that. Worst I've had for some time."
Esther's nose wrinkled. "I could make a nice fresh pot."
"No need, dearest. I'll dump this mess and we can have some good coffee over at the Jewel."
Esther smiled.
I drew out a chair, and she sat, as comfortable on a rude wooden straight-back chair as any queen on a cushioned throne.
"My dear, Duzy received ... information."
I sat on the desk, facing her. If I'd been a cat my ears would have swung forward.
"You know she has the Second Sight."
"My mother had the Second Sight, and I knew a mountain witch back home that could tell you things nobody else could know."
Esther nodded. She recounted Duzy's dream, as near to word-for-word as she'd gotten it.
Something sounded familiar. I frowned.
"I read something ..." My gaze swept back and forth on the floor, vainly searching darkened rooms of my memory, trying to find a sliver of recollection. "That sounds awful familiar. Tell me again."
Esther patiently repeated herself. My head was tilted to the side, my right ear inclined toward her, eyes closed. I was biting the inside of the corner of my mouth with concentration.
Finally I shook my head. "Don't recall where but I read something ... something that sounded just Almighty familiar to what you just told me."
Esther rose, and so did I. She laid a gentle hand on my chest.
"Darling, will you be all right?"
I shifted uncomfortably. "Esther, after that woman was in here, I feel dirty. I need a bath!"
Esther smiled. "I think we can arrange that. Jacob has been hauling wood and hot water all morning. I think the entire town wants a bath, and we're having trouble keeping up!"
I smiled. "Paying customers come first. I can wait."
"Nonsense!" Esther declared. "I want my husband clean and sweet-smelling when he proposes to me tonight!"
I laughed, and the tension unwound from around my gut. "Then you shall have it, my dear, for I can deny you nothing!"
A mischievous light danced in Esther's eyes as she said, "I'll remember you said that!"

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Duzy Wales 9-22-07

 

Duzy climbed onto her soft feather tic mattress and had soon fallen asleep, as it had been a day of preparation, fun with Fannie and Bonnie, and intrigue, as she thought of Liam McKenna and why he was in Firelands. Her last thought before sleep came was to make sure that he did not hurt Bonnie, as tomorrow was a day of celebration for her new friend, as “The House of McKenna” was to open come morning, and then more celebrations to follow…..

And with sleep came the dream……

A secret space… well hidden…. darkness…. light coming from under the door… arms aching….the door opening…. a form of a man…blinding light….Liam McKenna….a leather crop…..a cruel smile...... the inside of a room….no, in a private car of the train… and then the words…. you will do as I say…..no, never…. cruel laughter …..I have Bonnie...where ….in the trunk......no… I will let her go….you must beg me….no….you want her to die…..no…..then beg…..don’t believe you…..more laughter…..a sickening smell….bars.... unconsciousness….Bonnie….the trunk….no don’t believe it…. oh yes, my dear, you will, if not today, then the next, or the next, until you will beg for it or she will die if you don’t! Beg me, and I will let her go…….

Duzy woke up in a cold sweat and knew in her heart that Liam McKenna was there to hurt Bonnie, and he would use her or anyone else she or Bonnie loved to get what he wanted. Duzy reached for her journal and wrote her dream. She slipped downstairs and poured herself a drink of tequila to stop the shakes…..oh how she wished Jake was here to hold her! She walked back upstairs and knocked on Aunt Esther’s door. “Aunt Esther, it is Duzy, may I come in?” Aunt Esther opened the door and took Duzy in her arms, knowing that her niece was terrified from the look of anguish on her pretty face. “Come on in dear, you can sleep with me.”

Duzy told Aunt Esther the details of the dream, as her Aunt stroked her hair and told her everything would be fine, not to worry, and Duzy remembered all the times she had comforted her like this, since the dreams had begun so many years ago! “Aunt Esther, I love you.” “And I love you too, my dear, now go to sleep, I will tell Linn of your dream tomorrow.” Duzy slept like a child, as her Aunt Esther held her, in her loving arms.”

When Duzy awoke again, it was to a beautiful morning, the sun was coming up, and the blood in her veins started pounding with excitement, anticipation, and yet, worry! Today was the opening of “The House of McKenna!” She knew Bonnie must be as excited as she,….and tonight, tonight her Aunt Esther would accept the marriage proposal of Linn Keller, and the grand opening of “The Silver Jewel Gambling Establishment, Bar and Hotel” would be formally opened with two dining rooms, “Daisy’s Kitchen,” and “The Ruby Room!” So much planning and hard work was finally becoming a reality.

Aunt Esther was already up and gone, and Duzy saw a note on the night stand. “Gone for breakfast….I will talk to Linn.”

Duzy hurried to her own room and dressed to take care of any last minute details before riding out to pick up Miss Jones. She placed her derringer in the hidden pocket that was sewn in all her clothes, sheathed her knife in her boot, and used one of Aunt Esther's ten inch hat pins to secure her hat.

She had spoken to Shorty the day before and knew he would have the buggy ready for her at noon. Duzy started to knock on Fannie’s door, but it opened just as she raised her hand. “Good morning Sugar,” Fannie said, with a bright smile on her face. "Good morning Fannie, I need a favor, if you don't mind?" "Well, just tell me what it is so I will know what I need!" "I wish for you to ride out with me to pick up Miss Jones later today, she will be performing tonight and I promised her a ride into town." "I would love to, now let's go get something to eat and find Bonnie, I just know she is excited as can be today!"

Fannie noticed the small lines around Duzy's eyes, and asked, "anymore dreams last night?" "Yes, there is danger around us." "Well, since when have we been afraid of a little bit of danger!" Fannie replied. "However, we will be careful and watchful for each other."

As they descended the stairs, they met everyone coming back from breakfast and into the lobby of "The Silver Jewel." Duzy looked for Aunt Esther to see if she had spoken to Sheriff Keller about the dream.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Linn Keller 9-22-07

 

We trooped back to the Jewel, all of us, a happy, chattering crowd. Most everyone went inside right away.
Esther and I hung back, holding hands; there were many hugs, many handshakes, many kind words of support.
I don't reckon I will ever recall what was said to me that day, but I don't reckon I will ever, ever forget the folks that cared enough to say them!
Finally we stood outside the Jewel, just the two of us.
I held both Esther's hands.
"You understand, dear heart, you'll be marrying everything I've ever been, and everything I am, and everything I'll ever be," I said gently.
"I know that," she smiled, "and I am content."
"Understand that just like the other night I might have to ride out without saying a word, and I might come back shot up or killed."
Esther raised her head and there was steel in her spine. "I am marrying a man I respect, an honorable man who is worthy of the name." Her eyes softened and so did her voice. "I am willing to take that risk. I loved once. I would love again."
I nodded, realizing she already did, and realizing that I did too.
I raised her hand to my lips, kissed her knuckles.
"I promise to get a good bath before I put on that clean suit."
Esther smiled, and went inside.
I turned and headed for the Sheriff's office.

Clara was just rising from my chair behind the desk.
"You should really replace that chair," Clara pouted. "It is not comfortable."
I pulled in my elbows like a boxer before a fight. "How can I help you, ma'am?" I asked formally.
Clara swept around the desk, beautiful with her hair styled, her bodice tailored, her skirt swinging with the sway of her hips. I bristled as she came near -- too near! -- and she pressed herself against me.
I was backed against the wall.
She thrust her lips against mine, her mouth suddenly busy, and not with talking.
Almighty God! I thought, this woman can kiss!
For a moment, just a moment, lust-fires ignited in my belly and I almost kissed her back.
Almost.
I got my arms between us and broke her grip.
She stepped back, fire in her eyes and lust in her face. She traced her tongue across her bottom lip and whispered, "Sheriff, the desk ... it's solid ... please, I need you..."-- then she came at me again, seizing me about the neck.
I broke her grip a second time, twisting my face away from hers, I spun her around in what I knew was a painful arm lock. The sound she made was not one of pain.
"You have to arrest me," she said huskily. "I've just assaulted a police officer! You have to lock me up, Sheriff! I've been very bad!"
I bent her wrist with another ounce of pressure. This time the sound she made was not one of pleasure.
I brought her up on her tip-toes and escorted her rather ungently to the door. I thrust her outside, released her wrist.
She spun. "Sheriff, please, I can do things through the bars that--"
SLAM!
I held my palm hard against the white oak door and dropped the bar in place.
"Sheriff?" Her voice filtered through the wood. "Whenever you're ready, darling! I can take you places you've never been!" There was a mocking laugh, the sound of hard heels on the board walk, and she was gone.
I poured some scalding coffee. I had to get that taste out of my mouth, and I needed a bath, for all of a sudden, I felt quite dirty.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Mr. Box 9-22-07

 

Well, this is Friday, I'd better get an early start, I said to myself. Can't be too ready when there's this much riding on it. I went downstairs and the ladies were already abuzz. I'd best go pay Nelly a visit first.
"Shorty, if it gets too crowded in here, Nelly would be alright outside."
"May have to if town fills up like I think it will. I've heard several people talking about coming today."

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Sweet Violet 9-22-07

 

The sun was just beginning to streak the sky red and pink when Emma woke early Friday morning. She stretched lazily, then snuggled back down into the covers of the bed. A smile tugged at her lips as she remembered yesterday.

Jackson had indeed turned his horse around and came back for his cup of coffee. When she met him at the door he had quoted Shakespeare to her. To her. Not on a stage to an audiance full of patrons dripping with diamonds who had paid a hefty price to hear the newest talent quote Shakespeare. This man who looked for all the world like he would rather kill a man as look at him, quoted William Shakespeare!

Emma had stared at him with eyes rounded and a smile that leaned toward the embarassing, and just listened.

"Hmmmmmmmmm" she murmered. What would it be like to have that happen....... "Oh stop your silly mooning, Emma!"

And with that she jumped out of bed and prepared for the day. Duzy had offered to come out in her buggy and drive her back to town and to the opening of the Silver Jewel. Emma had thought long and hard about what she would read tonight. Finally she had made her decision.

Emma had asked Jackson if he would be attending the Grand Opening and he said he still wasn't decided one way or the other. Trying not to let her disapointment show at the prospect of him not being there, Emma decided to hope that he would be. And thus she had made her choice concerning the sonnets to be read. And she decided she would dedicate one to the love that Aunt May and Uncle Herbert had. That was a love that she knew she wanted.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Linn Keller 9-22-07

 

The Irish Brigade loudly argued the merits of parking their steam wagon right outside the Ruby Room, where the suction line was still installed in the cistern, just poking out from under the board walk. To hear them a body would think they were ready to rip one another's heads off, but we knew better. These six were united not only by friendship but by having faced a common enemy, and not a few times.
Sean strode back to the kitchen. I heard Daisy's shriek, her laugh, Sean's booming voice: "Daisy me darlin', how is the loveliest wife this side of the Mississippi this mornin'?" and I heard the clop of her heels coming back down to the floor as he set her down and her laughing, "Sean, ye great Irishman, I'm the same as when ye saw me two hours ago!"
I grinned. Daisy gave as good as she got, and she was well matched with Sean.
We worked on vanilla coffee and eggs, biscuits and gravy, bacon, and I heard Daisy greet Dawg, and knew he'd slipped in the back for his favorite treat.
The Parson and I ate with a good appetite.
Full, we leaned back, and Daisy refilled our coffee. I cocked an eyebrow.
Daisy grinned. She knew I was about to pull her leg, and she was right.
"Daisy, my dear," I declared in a loud voice, "it's a darn good thing you're a married woman!"
She laid her hand on my shoulder and threw her weight onto one leg, standing hip shot and winking at Sean. "Now why would that be, darlin'?" she asked with that ornery smile of hers.
"Why, were you not married, I might just run off with you, long as I could pack up that kitchen and take it with us!"
Daisy pretended to indignation. "Why, I never!" she exclaimed, swatting at me with her ever-present towel. "Men! You're all alike! You should be ashamed of yourself, Sheriff!"
Esther had just come down the stairs, and I thought she was going to have to stuff her fist in her mouth to keep from laughing. She was enjoying the show.
Unaware, Daisy continued, sweeping the table full of Irishmen with her laughing eyes. "You men are all alike! You're all mouth and hands! You only think of one thing! One thing!"
She paused and let the air grow heavy with anticipation, then ...
"FOOD!"
Everyone in the house laughed.

Esther sat down and joined us, and I was glad she did.
I held her hand.
"Parson, it is well to invoke the blessing of God before undertaking any important task, and I intend to undertake one of the most important of my life."
The Parson nodded, once, listening; he looked from Esther, to myself.
"I promised Esther that I would ask for her hand in marriage, at the time and place that suited her best. The time is tonight. The place will be just yonder, in Ruby's Room. It will be a fine affair. You've seen the banners, you've read the handbills, we'll have singers and poets and music and I doubt me not we'll have dancing as well." I squeezed Esther's hand, gently, and she squeezed mine back. "I'm told Esther and I will have the head table -- yonder, against the wall -- and at the right time, I will stand, and I will propose to Esther, and she will give me her answer at that time."
There was a heavy hand on my shoulder.
"Parson," Sean said in his deep and lovely Irish accent, "before you invoke the blessings of the Almighty, let me tell you of this man." He hesitated, and the rest of the Irish Brigade came over and ranked shoulder to shoulder with him. "I first met him at the depot, and though he ended up on his back it was not until he'd hit me harder than anyone, man or boy, has hit in me life, and that's sayin' somethin'." His big hands squeezed, gently. "He has acted honorably in everything he's done. He's had a thousand chances to take advantage, he could have sold out and run and lived a wealthy man, and he's no' done that. I understand he came into filth and turned it into righteousness, and wha' he's done for the girls here should make him a guid Irish saint."
The Irish Brigade muttered affirmations to this.
"I would no' presume to gi'e advice t' the Divine, but had I the ear of the good St. Patrick I'd ask him to incline the Almighty favorably toward this man and all his purposes."
Esther bit her lower lip and fished out a lacy hankie.
I found myself seized under the arms and hoist to shoulder height. There was a great roar. "Come along, lads! If we're askin' the Almighty's blessin' we're doin' it right, in church!"
We were borne along like leaves in a strong current, and so, in church that morning, surrounded by a half-dozen red-shirted Irish giants, Esther and I knelt and sought the blessing of the Almighty on what we were about to do.
We didn't know until we stood, and shook the Parson's hand and thanked him for his kindness, and turned, that we saw Charlie, and Jacob, and Tillie, Bonnie, Sarah, Tom Landers and several others, attracted by the commotion, standing in the back of the church: all grinning at us, and most of the ladies were dabbing at their eyes.
Liam McKenna was behind them; he dropped his eyes, and looked troubled.
Clara was there as well.
I knew the look on her face, and knew she planned trouble.
Turns out I was right.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Linn Keller 9-22-07

 

Clara pouted.
No one could see her pout, but she pouted anyway.
Liam had given her a severe dressing-down for her behavior in the Silver Jewel, once they were in the privacy of his private car. She'd hoped he would hold her hand as they walked, but he gripped her wrist instead; his words had been harsh, his touch demanding; at one point he'd had her across his knee as if she were a naughty schoolgirl.
She smiled at that memory, or tried to smile. The mouthful of cloth made it hard to form any expression, there in the darkness of the hidden jail cell.
At least he'd put a blanket around her. It would be hard to draw the blanket up herself, with her wrists cuffed behind her back. She'd not slept well, not with the welts on her backside, but she'd managed to sleep a little.
A thin crack of light seeped in under the concealing wooden door, and under the barred steel door of her small cell.
There was the grinding click of a lock turning. The outer door opened; she was momentarily blind.
Liam's silhouette stood in the doorway.
"What a lovely sight," he hissed. "Are you ready to be a good girl today?"
She smiled through her gag and shook her head.
"No? I thought perhaps you might say that." He tapped the riding crop against his leg. "Perhaps I could persuade you."