Story Demon Hunters -The Truck the Witch and the Blacksmith (Book 1)

[gonewacky]

Chapter Sixteen - The Theater

In the truck going down the road Jim announced, “We have a problem. Suzan and I were talking to Benjamin when time stopped. If we start time to catch the Shelton gang. We’ll disappear in front of Benjamin.”

Albert insisted, “I’m hanging the bastards, shooting them makes me like them. If I had no choice it would be fine, but I do have a choice. I can walk up well there frozen and take their guns. Then they will be defenseless. I don’t need to have time start and have a shootout with them.”

Jim knew all Albert was thinking about was Rebecca, so he decided to teach him to drive the truck. This would take his mind off Rebecca and the Shelton gang. Jim stopped the truck and insisted Albert needs to learn to drive the truck. Then he made Albert get in the driver’s seat and Jim scooted to the middle. This made Suzy by the door. Then Jim instructed how to push in the clutch and push on the gas, and that the pedal in the middle made it stop. Jim put Albert’s hand on the shifter, and pushed it in first gear. Then instructed Albert to slowly let out the clutch and push on the gas at the same time.

The truck started to move then the engine started to race, and the truck leaped forward. This threw everyone back in the seat. Albert’s foot came off the gas, and the engine wound down throwing everyone forward. This shoved Albert’s foot back on the gas throwing everyone back in the seat again, and pulling Albert’s foot off the gas. This made the engine wound down throwing Jim and Suzy up on the dash and Albert under Jim. With the truck idling along at about five miles per hour Jim got his hand on the steering-wheel.

Jim calmly insisted, “Ease back over Albert and don’t touch any pedals. That was my fault.”

Suzy complained, “Yah because you didn’t put seat belts in this thing!”

Jim continued, “Put your hands back on the wheel, as I look out the back window. We’re doing fine the Wagon is still back there. This crazy ride was because I should have had you start out in second gear. First gear has a lot of power, and that is the kind of thing that can happen. I jerked a car around like that when I learned to drive a stick. It just didn’t have this much power, so it wasn’t that bad.”

Suzy added, “It happened to me to when grandpa was teaching me to drive one of the trucks on the farm. It looks like you’re doing fine now. Are you going to teach him to shift into second gear Jim?”

Jim replied, “Sure, Now push that clutch pedal and put your hand on the shifting knob, and pull it straight back. Then slowly let out the clutch pedal, and don’t touch the gas. Good now we’re driving along at the right speed and all you have to do is steer the wheel. Just turn it the way you want to go.”

Suzy assured, “You doing real good for your first time Albert.”

Albert’s hands gripped the wheel tight as he stared intensely at the road. Soon Albert started to relax a little and informed, “This isn’t that hard once you get the hang of it.”

Jim insisted, “Then let’s try stopping. Put your hand on the shifter.”

Then Jim put his hand on top of Alberts, and told Albert to push in the clutch. Then Jim pushed the shifter up and questioned, “You feel that?”

Moving the shifter side to side he explained that this was neutral. Then he had Albert let out the clutch, and Jim instructed push on the pedal in the middle and stop. Then Jim told Albert to push on the gas a little and let off. Albert did and the motor raced a little but nothing happened. Then Jim instructed, “Grab that lever and pull it back. Good you just set the break. Now you can get out and get in the other side. I’ll drive from here.”

Jim slipped over to the driver’s seat, and Suzy opened the door to let Albert in. Jim drove off as he explained, “I’d teach you to start and stop, but it’s easy to kill the truck doing that.”

Albert questioned, “What do you mean kill the truck?”

Jim continued, “That means stop the motor. If we did that Time would start until we got it started again, and Benjamin would see Suzan and I disappear before his eyes. I’d teach you that, but we have to reset time and pick a time for that. Like an Army practices to load and shoot a gun. We all need to know how to use our weapons, and this has a lot of things to learn. It has a winch on the front, and you need to know how to use it too. We will have to work as a team to win this war. We got threw into a battle today, and I think we did well. I’m so glad that the truck got started so fast. I know that saved Rebecca’s life, and made it so we can get the gang.”

Suzy assured, “You did good Albert learning to start the truck. If you had to run to the Boardinghouse and Jim had to run back to the truck Rebecca would not have made it. You were right Albert we need to keep our weapons where we can get to them fast.”

Jim started slowing and announced, “Just around this corner is the field where the killers are.”

Albert gave his plan, “I was thinking we could park the truck and wagon ten feet or so in front of the gang, and take their guns and saddle bags. Then put them in the back of the truck, and then we could pull them off their horses. Leve them frozen half off and you and Suzan could go back to Benjamin. I could give you a few minutes to get in place, and turn off the truck. I’ll hold the Shelton gang for ten minutes and start the truck back up.”

Jim insisted, “It sounds good to me. What do you think Suzan?”

Suzy agreed, “I think that well work”

Jim pulled the truck and wagon in front of the Shelton gang. Then they all got out and quickly removed their guns, knives, rifles, and saddle bags. Albert unloaded all the guns accept one rifle. Then they went and stood by each gang member. Jim announced, “On three, one, two, three.”

Then they each grabbed the arm of a gang member making them come to life, and pulled hard and let go. They were froze half hanging off their horses. Suzy laughed, “I can’t imagine what is going through their heads right now. Especially when they wake up falling off and no one is there.”

Jim pulled his watch from his pocket and handed it to Albert as he announced, “give us five minutes and turn off the truck. Then start it back up after ten minutes.”

Albert nodded his head and replied, “Got it.”

Jim took Suzy’s hand and blinked out. Then Jim and Suzy got back into their chairs on the porch. Benjamin came to life and went on, “I was thinking if we can get enough people to spread seed at the Wilson’s. We could do it in a day. Then we could start getting wood on Monday. What do you think?

Jim replied, “I think it’s a good idea. In fact I think Suzan and I are going to go talk to Albert about it.”

Then Jim and Suzy left.

Back at the truck Albert came around the front of the truck and one of the horses reared up as the rider fell off. Another horse’s nose dove to the ground as the rider flew off. The last horse went down and rolled over getting back up.

Albert barked, “You picked the wrong town to try something like that. Oh I see that, go ahead and go for your gun. Woops there gone, and so is your knifes. That’s right I took the one from your boot too. Now you can lie on your belly, or I can shoot you. Don’t worry I won’t kill you. I plan on watching you hang.”

Then Albert shot the Rifle in the air, and the horses ran off. He chambered another round and pointed the gun at the men.

One of the men questioned, “Tom what the hell is this thing with a wagon hooked to it?”

Tom replied, “I think it’s his space ship. How do you think he took our guns and knives without us knowing?”

The other man added, “I think he’s one of those man Witches, and he cast a spell on us.”

Albert joked, “I’m a Witch from outer space. That’s why I know how to shoot one of your guns.”

Albert pulled Jim’s watch from his pocket, and exclaimed, “Oh it’s been ten minutes. Time for me to start the space ship, but I have to get inside to do that. You can run if you want. I’ll just shoot your legs off.”

Just then Jim and Suzy appeared and Jim announced, “Good Job Albert. I’ll start the truck. “

Jim started the truck and time stopped again. Albert looked at Suzy and informed, “I See you got your gun.”

The Crow flew from the top of the truck to Albert’s head, and he saw the shootout at the Horseshoe. He saw the man shoot the Cook in slow motion. The bullet went through the Cooks left side and out his back then into Rebecca’s arm. Then the crow flew back on top of the truck.

Albert became angry and went over and kicked one if the men in the balls. The man came to life for a moment yelling. Then he froze as Albert walked away.

Then Suzy stepped next to Jim and whispered, “Look at the man next to the wagon. I saw his eyes move.”

Jim whispered, “That can’t be he’s not touching the truck.”

Jim walked over to take a closer look, and sure enough the man’s eyes followed him. Jim jumped back and yelled, “What the hell!”

Suzy pointed her finger at the man and shot out a lightning bolt. It hit the man, and his body shook, as he let out a loud hideous squeal. Looking to Jim Suzy announced, “I think he’s demon possessed.”

Jim grabbed Albert’s arm and they disappeared. A moment later they reappeared with the shackles hanging over Albert’s hand. Albert went over and put them on the man’s legs. Then Jim took one arm and Albert took the other arm, and they walked him into the Wagon. One at a time they walked the other two into the Wagon. Then Albert tied them up with the rope they used for Rebecca. With the three frozen in time in the wagon Jim informed, “Now that none of us will disappear in front of someone. Albert should drive the truck, because it won’t matter if he kills it. We can just restart the truck and keep going.”

Albert took his place behind the steering wheel, and Suzy slid to the middle with Jim next to her. Pointing to a plate under the shifter Jim insisted, “This instruction plate tells what shifter dose what, and where to put it. You need to learn each of them. Every day you need to work them until you know them without looking.

Now go ahead and put it in second gear and let out the clutch. You’re doing good Albert. Some time when we don’t have the wagon hooked up. We can try some of the other gears. Like third and fourth, but I can’t think of a place we could use fifth gear in this time line. Unless it’s on a beach somewhere then you might be able to go that fast.”

Albert replied, “I could never go that fast. It’s all I can do to drive it this fast.”

Jim laughed, “You could do it. Just give it some time. We’ll have you driving circles around us in no time.”

Suzy added, “Don’t worry Albert we’ll have you driving and using all the levers, knobs, and buttons at the same time. You’ll get the hang of it, and not even have to think to do it. Hell Jim couldn’t ride a horse when we got here, and look at him now.”

Albert chuckled, “Tell me about it. I remember our ride back from the Cooper’s. He just sat on the horse and let it walk home. I thought we’d never get back. He dose drive a wagon nicely though.”

Suzy smiled, “Why thank you Albert. I’ll take that complement.”

Jim insisted, “We need to come up with a plan. Everything at the Horseshoe is fine. The only one alive in there is the waitress, and she didn’t see a thing. Anyone that heard the shoot out only saw Albert in the street shooting at them. The only one that would see someone disappear was Benjamin. We already took care of that. I say we stop just out of town. Albert and I Jump to town and Suzan starts time. She guards the Shelton gang until we get back.

In town Albert and I will get horses from Henry. I’ll get a team, and Albert will get a horse and ride out of town fast. As soon as Suzan sees Albert she’ll start the truck to stop time. Then Suzan will drive into town with Albert following. Once were all in town we put the truck away and hitch up the team. Albert will ride down the road. Suzy will start time and lock the Feed and Seed. Then we take about the longest hour ever and come back to town with the Shelton gang. We turn all the stolen property over to Hank, and head to Lambert with the Shelton gang. Well what do you think?”

Albert explained, “The only thing I see wrong with that plan is what if someone sees us leaving town. With the Shelton gang tied up in the back of the wagon.”

Jim declared. “Revision, we leave the Shelton gang tied up with Suzan. Put the truck away, and get horses from Henry.”

Suzy exclaimed, “I like it. That will give me a chance to practice my new found powers.”

They stopped just out of town and left Suzy with the Shelton gang. Jim and Albert drove in to town, and put the wagon back where it was. Then they put the truck in the Feed and Seed. Albert looked down the street, and saw what he missed because of Rebecca. People were flooding into the street to see what the shooting was about. Then he realized this happened when Jim and Suzy came back. Albert yelled. “Start time Jim.”

Jim turned the truck off and put the extra key in his pocket. Albert ran to the Livery where Henry was out front looking around. Then he ran right pass Henry to get a horse. Albert was saddling up a horse when Henry came in asking, “What’s going on?”

Albert replied, “The Shelton gang shot up the Horseshoe and robbed the town. Don’t go in the Horseshoe it’s a mess. The Cook is dead and one of the gang members is plastered to the back wall. Get some men together and check all the stores.”

Then Albert jumped on the horse and raced out of the Livery. After locking the door Jim ran across the street and yelled, “I need a team.”

Henry yelled, “Lyle, Help James hitch up a team”

The stable boy helped Jim hitch up a team, and Jim drove the wagon out of town. Albert road up and saw Suzy shooting little lightning bolts out her finger at the men. He could hear her say, “How does that feel?”

One of the men yelled. “I’m going to kill you bitch as soon as I get out of here.”

Another one wined, “Oh hell it burns it burns bad. Please stop Please.”

Albert stopped next to Suzy as she shot out a wild lightning bolt. It hit the bottom of a tree and exploded. The tree fell over as Suzy insisted, “Don’t even think about it guys. I’ll blow you in to next week.”

Albert questioned, “What are you doing Suzan?”

Suzy answered, “Just practicing Albert. I don’t want to have to shoot them.”

Albert questioned, “You try any of the balls of bright swirling energy yet?”

Suzy replied, “Sure, I did one the size of a marble on the demon possessed guy. That is why you heard him yelling it burns when you came up.”

Just then Jim showed up with the wagon. They loaded the gang in the back of the wagon, and tethered Albert’s horse to the back of it. Then they put their guns and saddle bags under the wagon seat. Albert pulled Jim’s watch from his pocket and announced, “It’s been almost five hours our time, but it’s only been twenty minutes since the shoot out in the Horseshoe.”

Jim looked at Albert and winked, “Welcome to our world Albert.”

Albert insisted, “We need to come up with a story about how we caught the gang.”

Jim laughed, “I got it! We tell them we shot their guns out of their hands, and they gave up. Who are they going to believe the Sheriff and his deputy, or them?”

 

[gonewacky]

Then Jim took one of the guns by the barrel and walked out ten feet and announced, “Suzan you first.”

Then Jim threw the gun in the air, and Suzy did a quick draw and shot it. Then Jim announced, “My turn.”

Then Suzy did the same for Jim. Getting the last gun Suzy announced, “It’s your turn Albert.” Suzy tossed the gun in the air and Albert did the same.

Jim put the guns under the Wagon seat and complained, “Well that took all of five minutes now what?”

Albert replied, “I have a question, but I don’t want to freak you out. It’s about us.”

Suzy insisted, “Go ahead Albert let’s hear it.”

Albert went on, “From the time I met you I knew something wasn’t right. It started when I had to tell you to prime the wick on your lamp. That’s something every kid would know. Then when Jim told me about the bullets I was sure he was telling a lie. Now lies become the truth and it’s not what I think. Then you run too fast, and I run to slow. That’s when you take my hand and we go. When there’s a disaster I run to you. It seems I’m not running my life, but it’s running me. When evil comes for me, and when it all starts coming undone I want to run. Then you save me, and make me strong, so my life can go on. You tell me love is the key, and you give it to me. I just wonder why me?”

Suzy explained, “Because you’re fighting evil just like us, and you know love. That’s it. It’s that simple Albert. That’s why we love you.”

Albert revealed, “But I have secrets.”

Jim replied, “Like the affair you’re having with Rebecca we know about.”

Suzy added, “We have our secrets too. Like we have a little box we can put in our pocket. With it we can talk to someone on the other side of the world, and see them when we’re doing it. In our time we have machines called Plains that can fly so fast. You can ride on one to England, and get there in just hours. We cook on stoves that don’t need a fire. Our truck is really old, and is like a spear is to a gun. The new ones in our time you just push a button to do things, or it does it all by itself. The list goes on and on, but you still accept us for what we are.”

Jim insisted, “In our time most things are done for us, that little box in our pocket will tell us how to get somewhere. It will guide us every step of the way. It tells us turn here and turn there. Then it tells us this is your destination. In a time like this we need a guide and that would be you. You see we need someone that can do many things, and you fit the bill.”

Their hour had passed and they headed into town with the gang. Albert pulled the Wagon up next to the crowd gathered in front of the Horseshoe, and parked it in the middle of the street. He jumped down and walked up to Hank and announced, “Well Mr. Mayor this is a mess. I recovered what was stolen including your gold bar for the Feed and Seed. Do you know how the Cook’s wife is doing?”

Hank replied, “I had Mable and Emily take Josette down to my living quarters at the store. She’s a wreck we had to pry her off Barney’s bullet ridden body. It’s just not going to be the same without the Powell’s running the Horseshoe. I hired Thomas to build a box for Barney, but I’m not sure what to do with the guy on the back wall. Barney let him have it with both barrels and cut him in half. We’re going to have to use a shovel to clean up that mess.

Albert replied, “Hire some guys to clean up the mess, and throw his remains in a hole on boot hill. I’ll see the county commissioner in Lambert about paying for it. Now about the man plastered to the back wall. If there’s a dead or alive reward I’ll put in for it for Josette. Anything else you need just send a messenger to Lambert. I’ll be there until Wednesday. Jim will be with me, so you should appoint a Deputy. I’m going to push for a Jail when I see the county commissioner.”

Hank responded, “Good luck with that. We’ve tried to get a jail up here before. Now what happens with the loot?”

Albert replied, “You Just tell me where you want it, so you can get it back to the owners.”

Hank yelled, “Henry, Benjamin get over here. Henry you’re the new Deputy I need you and Benjamin to pick up the saddle bags Albert is throwing down. Then get rifles, and take them to the Store and guard them. I’ll be down there to see what goes to where after I deal with this mess.”

Albert insisted, “If we’re done here we’re off to Lambert to see the Marshal, and get rid of this gang.”

Hank acknowledged, “See you Wednesday.”

With that Albert climbed up on the Wagon, and they were off. About a mile down the road Suzy insisted, “Look what I learned to do.”

Then she threw a ball of bright swirling energy up in the air, and shot it with a lightning bolt from her finger. The ball exploded with a bright flash. Then little stars rained down over them. Jim felt the energy fill his body, as he thought about the creek. In an instant they were transported to the creek fifteen miles away.

Suzy exclaimed, “Wow how did that happen?”

Jim revealed, “I think I did it. I was thinking of the creek when the stars rained down on us.”

Albert insisted. “It works for me. Anything that gets me back to Rebecca faster is a good thing.”

In no time they were pulling up to the Marshal’s office. Albert climbed down and went to the office door. Pushing it open he yelled, “Prisoners!”

Bill rushed to the door and questioned, “What you got Albert?”

Albert replied, “The Shelton gang. Well what’s left of them anyway. One of them is plastered all over the back wall of the Restaurant.”

One man yelled, “Arrest them Marshal their all Witches from outer space.”

Bill busted up laughing as the man went on, “The woman is the worst. She was shooting us with lightning bolts from her finger, and throwing fire balls at us.”

Another man insisted, “It’s true. You have to do something.”

Bill tried to talk, but he was laughing to hard. Finely Bill questioned, “What the hell did you do to them. They’ve gone insane.”

Albert replied, “Just hang them and put them out of their misery. I’m going to see the doctor. My Deputy will fill you in with the details. They killed the Cook at the Restaurant. You can add Murder and Robbery to the list. Don’t forget to check on the reward James.”

Bill informed, “Looks like you made James a Deputy. You know a law man can’t collect a reward.”

Albert explained, “It’s for the widow. Her Husband took out the one with the shotgun before the rest of the gang killed him. His wife is entitled to whatever is coming to him.”

Bill agreed, “That’s true I’ll check into it.”

Albert and Suzy walked down the street to see Rebecca, and Jim help Bill and his Deputy lock up the insane men.

Down at the doctor’s office Albert and Suzy were met by the doctor’s wife Melissa.

Melissa explained, “Your patient was moved into the other room.”

She opened a door on the left, and there lay Rebecca in a twin bed with a chair on either side of it. To their left was a window that looked out to the street. Next to the window sat a table and a wash bowl with a pitcher in it. Across the room on the other side was a dresser with Rebecca’s torn bloody clothes. Her shoes were under the chair on the right. Albert stared at Rebecca intensely. Then he went outside, and Suzy went and sat next to Rebecca.

Suzy ran her fingers through her hair as she whispered, “It’s going to be all right sweetie. Albert saved you. He did all the right things at the right time. He loves you. You know. Your clothes are ruined, so I’m going to pick out something nice for you. James gets his reward in a few days and I’ll have him get you the best dress in town. James loves me so much he’ll do anything for me. Just like Albert would and did for you. Now you rest, and I’ll tell Albert you’re thinking about him.”

Then Suzy went outside and took Albert’s arm and insisted, “Go in and talk to her Albert. She can’t move or talk with the medication she’s on, but she can hear you. Believe me Albert the will to survive is strongest when love ones talk to them. It makes then fight to live.”

Albert went inside and sat next to Rebecca and whispered, “I’m here dear.”

Then he took her hand and continued, “I did my best and got the gang, but I can’t undo what’s been done. I can do my best to keep it from happening again. I’m working hard to make that happen. You just rest and do what you do best fight. The story will have your name all over it. I’ll see to that. Now I have to go to see the county commissioner. Then I’ll be back.”

In Dention Hank was back at the store. Hank met with Oliver Turner to return what was stolen from his store. Oliver revealed, “I’m going to sale the Hardware store, and move to Lambert. My wife is about ready to have our baby, and I need what a big town can offer.”

Hank replied, “Sorry to hear that Oliver, but you have to do what is best for the family. James went to Lambert with Albert to turn over the Shelton gang. He was going to plant the Wilson farm tomorrow, but he’s not going to be here. I’m putting up fifty pounds of sugar to split with whoever shows up to plant the wheat. If ten people show up that would be five pounds each. It would be nice if you would tell anyone you think would help.”

Oliver insisted, “Not a problem Hank. I might close up and be there myself.”

Hank replied, “Thanks Oliver. I knew I could count on you.”

Back in Lambert Albert met with the county commissioner, “Nice to see you again Alexander. I just turned over the Shelton gang to the Marshal.”

Alexander replied, “I heard that. The news is spreading all around town. I also heard they killed another person on this rampage.”

Albert informed, “They also shot our news reporter Rebecca Hill. She in bad shape at the Doctors office, and we’re hoping for a recovery. The doctor told me it would be three days to a week before she’d be out of the woods.”

Alexander replied, “I was worried when you got elected you could do the job from Dention, but now after seeing your success I’ve changed my mind. I think it works having you at the top side of the county and the Marshal down here. I thought you should be here at the county seat to perform, but I don’t think that is necessary now. I look at the letter you sent about hiring a Deputy. I think we can pay a part time wage of $10 a month. I’ve already signed the necessary paper work for that. Was there anything else you need from me, or was this a social visit”

Albert asserted, “I wanted to see if we could get a jail up there. I’ve talked to the Mayor about it, but the town can’t afford it. It’s all they can do to pay the School teacher. My Deputy and I got the old Feed and Seed. We thought that would be a good spot for it.”

Alexander confided, “I don’t think we have the money to build a jail. We do have one here the US Government built for the Marshal. It has worked fine for the county for years, but maybe I could look into one of the already made ones. There is a company in Portland that makes one that is like a cage. They ship you the walls and a roof made with bars. One wall has a door with a lock, but that is about it. No promises but I’ll see what we can do.”

Albert put out his hand and gave Alexander a firm hand shake and acknowledged, “Thanks Alex it an honor to work with you.”

With that Albert went back to be with Rebecca. Suzy and Jim walked down to the Lambert Times to see Rebecca’s boss. At the newspaper office they met with the receptionist and Jim asked, “Can we see the editor-in-chief?”

The receptionist replied, “Do you have an appointment?”

Jim replied, “No but it’s important.”

The receptionist replied, “I’m sorry but Mr. Ryan is a very busy man, and only sees people by appointment.”

Jim became very insistent and pointed to his badge, “You tell him a law man is here to see him, and I don’t want to have to go find him.”

The receptionist acknowledged, “Yes sir I’ll let him know.”

Then she scurried off as Suzy whispered, “Good thing Albert made you a Deputy James.”

In the editors office the receptionist announced, “Sorry to interrupt you Mr. Ryan, but there is a Law Man out here insistent on seeing you.”

Richard replied, “Tell him I’ll be right out Ida.”

Ida came back and informed. “Mr. Ryan said he’d be right out.”

A few minutes later a tall slender well-dressed man appeared. Putting out his hand he questioned, “What can do for you?”

Jim replied, “I’m sorry to inform you that your reporter Rebecca Hill of Dention, was shot in a robbery. She’s in serious condition at the Doctor’s office.”

Richard advised, “I know this is a Newspaper office. I sent a reporter to get the story from the Doctor. Come back to my office and we’ll talk.”

On the way Richard yelled, “David, get your pad, and meet me in my office.”

Walking through the door they saw a large room with bookshelves covering one wall. Two big windows looking over the street, and a large desk covered with papers. A high back wooden chair sat behind the desk, and two matching chairs faced the desk. Richard insisted, “Have a seat,” as he sat behind his desk. Looking up Richard instructed, “David stand at the door and get this story.”

Looking back at Jim and Suzy Richard went on, “I was trying to find someone to send to Dention to cover for Rebecca, but since I have you here maybe you can give me a firsthand account of what happened up there.”

Jim looked at Suzy and Suzy looked around. Then looking at David Suzy questioned, “Who gets the credit for this story?”

Richard sat up in his chair and insisted, “I can assure you David will share it with Rebecca. After all she is the story the Shelton gang is just the head line. Is that what you want to hear?”

Suzy went on, “The only eye witness is Rebecca and she’s hanging by a thread fighting for her life. The only other witness is the Cook’s wife Josette. The first ones on the scene was the Sheriff. Then the Deputy and I showed up. By the time we got there the place was a mess. The bullet ridden body of the cook was on the floor, and one of the Shelton gang members was plastered all over the back wall of the kitchen. Rebecca had been shot and was slumped over a table. The waitress was curled up on the floor with her hands wrapped around her head. We then found the Shelton gang had started at one end of town and worked their way to the other. They went from store to store robbing and tying up the store keepers as they went. Finely the gang ended up at the Horseshoe Restaurant where the gang had the shootout.”

Then Jim went on giving a more detailed description. He told of the smell of the blood and gunpowder in the air, and the look on the face of the dead Cook. He when Jim got to the part about the gang member’s intestines sliding down the wall in the kitchen. Richard insisted Jim stop.

Looking to David Richard informed, “I believe we have enough for the next addition David. I know James from his capture of Jack Callen, but I need your name Miss.”

Suzy replied, “Why I’m James’s wife Suzan.”

Richard requested, “Well Mr. and Mrs. White I would be honored if you would be my gusts at the theater tonight. I also would like to pay to have your picture taken. If you would stop at the studio I’ll pay for it for you.”

Then pointing to the wall behind him he informed, “I think I’ll put my copy next to the one of that seven year old boy up there. You might want to read the story under his picture. He rode from Dention to Lambert in a rain storm to get a doctor for his sister. His thirteen year old sister was razing him all alone in a cabin in the woods. It’s my favorite human interest story.”

Suzy insisted, “What about the Sheriff? Shouldn’t he be in the picture?”

Richard informed, “I already have him up there. Don’t you know how he got elected Sheriff?”

Suzy replied, “No he’s never talked about it.”

Richard cleared his throat, “It chokes me up just thinking about it. It was the winter of sixty eight, and we had a smallpox outbreak. Albert had brought his wife to Lambert because of the doctor here. The doctor needed someone to go to Boise to get the medicine. Albert insisted he do it. The Doctor told Albert his wife most likely would not make it until he got back. He told Albert to stay and spend the last moments with his wife, but Albert insisted that everyone that was sick needed the medicine. He took the note from the Doctor and rode over a hundred miles in a snow storm to get the medicine. Before Albert left he asked Rebecca to stay with his wife until he got back, Albert left, and his wife made Rebecca promise to watch over Albert after she was gone. Two days later she passed with Rebecca holding her hand. Six days later Albert returned with the medicine half frozen, and came down with pneumonia. Rebecca stayed with him every moment holding his hand until he recovered. Then she requested the assignment in Dention. I bet you he’s there holding Rebecca’s hand right now, and that’s why you’re here instead of him.”

 

[gonewacky]

Suzy was shocked, “Oh my God he’s a freaking hero!”

Richard insisted, “Yep, and that’s how he became Sheriff.”

A man appeared at the door and Richard questioned, “What do you need Fred?”

Fred replied, “I have next week’s ads for the mercantile. I just need your approval, so I can get the typesetter started on it.”

Richard insisted, “Well bring them here Fred.”

Then Richard looked at Jim and Suzy saying, “You’ll have to excuse me. Work calls you know, but I’ll see you tonight at seven.”

Getting up Jim informed, “Looking forward to it Richard.”

Back in Dention the news of the free sugar spread as fast as the news of the robbery. In no time Emily had a list of over ten families’ that were going to the Wilson farm Saturday.

Back in Lambert Jim and Suzy were checking into the Hotel. At the desk the attendant exclaimed, “Oh yes the White family. Wells Fargo has arranged for all your accommodations. You will be staying in the Honeymoon Sweet, and your meals will be provided by the Restaurant. Just sign the book, and here is your key. Your room is up the stairs and all the way to the end of the hall. Enjoy your stay.”

After checking out of their room they went down the street looking for the studio. Finding the studio they explained that Richard sent them, and they had their picture taken. Then they went to find Albert. Not that they had to look that far. They found him sitting next to Rebecca holding her hand reading to her.

Jim and Suzy slipped out the door and walked down the street. A man came up and asked, “Are you James white?”

Jim lucked up and saw two ladies across the street talking with one pointing at him as he answered, “Yes that would be me.”

Putting out his hand the man exclaimed, “Michael Schiefer let me thank you for making it safer for all of us. I didn’t even know you were a law man. Keep up the good work.”

Jim shook his hand and went on his way. When Suzy commented, “A lot of people are looking at us and pointing. I think checking in the hotel let everyone know who we are. It is spreading through the town.”

Jim replied. “The only thing that worries me is if Jack or the Gang has family or friends out to get me.”

Suzy questioned, “Did you notice the two guys following us.”

Jim insisted, “Lets cross the street.”

Once they were on the other side of the street the men kept going. This made Jim feel better, as they continued on their way. After walking through town and ending up back at the Hotel they went in for dinner. The manager went and talked to the waiter. Then he approached Suzy and Jim asking, “Mr. and Mrs. White?”

Jim replied, “Yes”

The waiter instructed, “Come this way we have a table by the window for you.”

After they were seated the waiter informed, “The cook has prepared a bean soup, a stake, baked potato and glazed carrots. For dessert we have apple pie, bread pudding, or a sugar cookie with blackberry jam felling. How would like your stake?”

Jim replied, “Medium.”

Suzy insisted, “The same for me thank you.”

The waiter went on, “And for your drink coffee, tea, or milk?”

Jim replied, “Coffee for me.”

Suzy agreed, “Me to.”

The waiter picked up the reserved for Wells Fargo guest Sign, and headed to the kitchen.

They finished their dinner and were taking their time walking to the theater. The sun was getting low in the sky, and only a few people were scattered up and down the street. Then Jim heard, “James White I’m calling you out.”

Looking to the middle of the street Jim saw a medium build man with long brown hair hanging down over his shoulders. His gun hung low like a gunslinger in the movies. His hand hung ready, and his eyes had the look of death in them. He face was ruff and rugged looking like he worked in the sun for years.

Jim thought that’s one mean bastard as the man called out, “You looking for your mommy boy!”

Jim became angary and started too walked towards the guy, as Suzy grabbed his arm and exclaimed, “Don’t do it James.”

Jim jerked his arm from Suzy and slowed time. In that instant he saw the man’s eyes turn red, and in a flash his gun was drawn. Then he fired and Jim saw the bullet spinning at him. Suzy was forming a ball of bright swirling energy in her hand. With her hand at her side she ran at the man. She passed Jim as he turned to one side and leaned back. Passing Jim Suzy was now caught in Jim’s time wave, and saw the bullet spin passed Jim. Leaping at the man, Suzy swung her arm with the ball of bright swirling energy in it at the man. Slapping him on the side of the face the ball exploded with a bright flash of light. The man’s feet flew up in the air, and he fell to the ground head first. As his head hit the ground Jim blinked out and time stopped.

In the Doctor’s office the Doctors wife was bringing in some medicine for Rebecca. Albert saw her freeze in place halfway across the room. He slipped his hand from Rebecca’s hand and she froze. Then Albert thought oh crap what now. Then went to the street to see what was happening. Looking down the street he saw Jim and Suzy standing next to a man lying in the street. Albert hollered, “I’m coming down,”

Jim insisted, “Look at his eyes.”

Suzy gasped as Albert walked up, “His eyes just moved. He’s looking at Albert now.”

Albert informed, “That’s Jack’s brother Colby. What did he do?”

Suzy replied, “He called Jim out and took a shot at him.”

Albert kicked him in the head and barked, “Idiot!”

Suzy insisted, “Careful Albert. He’s demon possessed.”

Albert insisted, “Let’s get the gun out of his hand Jim. I’ll step on his neck, and you can jerk the gun out of his hand.”

Then Jim pushed the gun down the front of his pants. Albert removed his foot making the man freeze again. Then Albert announced, “Give me time to get back to Rebecca before you start time again. The nurse was coming in the room when I left. Then take this bastard to Bill to lock up.”

Jim and Suzy waited until they saw Albert go back in the Doctor’s office. Then Jim blinked out. Time started and Jim blinked back. Pulling his gun Jim pushed it in Colby’s mouth as he grabbed a hand full of his hair. Then Jim barked, “Get up you dumb shit. We’re going for a walk.”

Hearing the gun shot Bill went to the door and looked down the street. He saw Jim walking the man to the Jail. Across the street Richard had seen the whole thing from the sidewalk. He walked out to meet Bill and explained, “That was the most intense thing I ever saw. I almost don’t believe it. That man took a shot at James and somehow he dodged it, as Suzan ran up and slapped him. That woman slapped him so hard his feet came off the ground. Then James jerked out his gun and shoved it in his mouth.”

Bill and Richard met Jim and Suzy about half way to the Jail. Jim informed, “This son of a bitch took a shot at me Bill.”

Bill replied grabbing the man’s arm, “I have a nice place for you right next to your brother Colby.”

Jim pulled his gun out of Colby’s mouth, and Suzy stood behind Colby so no one could see what she was doing. Then she shot a lightning bolt into his ass. He jumped and screamed as Jim pulled his hair and Bill jerked his arm.”

After locking Colby up Bill complained, “James quit bringing people to jail. I only have three cells, and it’s starting to get crowded in there now.”

Richard questioned, “You want my statement Bill?”

Bill replied, “No go to your show Richard. I’ll get it tomorrow.”

Jim took Suzy’s hand and gave it a squeeze as he expressed, “Thanks Bill. Let’s go Richard.”

At the theater they sat in balcony seats, the play was a Musical called, “The Belles of the Kitchen. After the show Richard requested a review from Suzy. Then he pulled out his pad and pencil from his jacket pocket.

Suzy informed, “The majority of the songs are revelations of the characters. I found the most moving to be “The Traveling Salesman,” beautifully acted and sung by Rega Schaefer. Speaking of singing, all these ladies have terrific voices and the balance with the band is good, but the sound is a bit loud overall. A couple of songs, such as “On the Porch” and “This old Dog,” are just plain fun. The diction is great and I understand every lyric, even in the ensemble numbers. Is that good enough for you Richard?”

Richard replied, “You’re very talented Suzan. I’ll print every word Just as you gave them to me. Now for you Jim, I couldn’t believe it when you walked straight at Colby Callen. What were you thinking, and how did you dodge that bullet?”

Jim squeezed his chin and informed, “I was thinking he wanted to kill me, and I watched every move and twitch he made. I saw the bullet coming before he pulled the trigger.”

Richard continued, “And Suzan you ran straight at him. At one point you were moving so fast you looked like a blur and James seamed to disappear for a moment. Then you hit him so hard his feet came off the ground, and he fell hitting his head. How did you do that?”

Suzy chuckled, “I don’t know. I just knew I had to stop him from killing my husband. Then I hit him with everything I had.”

Richard looked at Jim and advised, “Don’t ever piss her off that bad James. It’s for your own good. Just walk away.”

Jim laughed, “How do you think I’ve lived this long.”

Suzy punched Jim in the shoulder and added, “He just lets me do what I want.”

Richard insisted, “Me too.”

Jim revealed, “Well this is the Hotel, thank you for a wonderful evening Richard.”

Richard requested, “Maybe you could tone it down a little James. I’m running out of room in the paper, and this week’s news has just started.”

The next morning Jim had his usual three pancakes against the waiter’s wishes of steak and eggs. He enjoyed the blackberry jam with chunks of blackberry in it on his pancakes. Suzy had the same with maple and molasses syrup on hers. Then they went to see Rebecca. Albert was still there. He had slept in the chair and not left her side. Bill was trying to talk Albert into leaving Rebecca, and go get something to eat.

Jim walked over and insisted, “Albert go to the hotel and have breakfast. Get the steak and eggs. Tell them you’re with the Wells Fargo guest. It’s all paid for. Suzan and I will stay here with Rebecca until you get back. You need to eat.”

Reluctantly Albert went with Bill to breakfast. Jim and Suzy sat in the chairs next to the bed. Suzy told Rebecca all about Jim and her going to the theater. Then Patrick came in and announced, “Let’s see how our girl is doing today.”

He stepped next to the bed and pushed his stethoscope against her chest saying, “Well that thing is still making noise.” Then he slipped it in behind her back and commented, “Sounds like she still breathing and no gargling sounds. Let’s see how the wound is draining. Oh yes that looks clear. I’d say so far so good.”

Suzy questioned, “What about the pain Doc?”

Patrick replied, “We had a rough go for a while last night, and it upset Mr. Blocker. The thing is I don’t want to sedate her to much it can make things worse, but I need to do it enough to keep her out of pain. It’s a balancing act because not everyone responds the same to the medicine. She is doing very well for it being just one day. The first day is always the worst. We’ll know more tomorrow.”

Jim and Suzy sat with Rebecca until Albert got back. Then they went to the Jail to see the Marshal. After that they had done about everything there was to do in town, so they went to the mercantile. Then they got two Schweppes Ginger Ales. The Ginger Ale came in a barrel shaped green bottle with a long neck, and cost 5¢. They took their drink and sat on one of the benches in front of the mercantile. Suzy put her hand on Jim’s leg and whispered, “Thank you for making my dream come true.”

Taking a sip Jim questioned, “Witch dream was that?”

Suzy whispered, “The truck you dummy.”

Jim replied, “No that was my dream don’t you remember. You just came along for the ride.”

Suzy whispered, “Like a bum jumping on a train, and I’m riding this one to the end of the line.”

Jim put his arm around Suzy and whispered, “You best hang on tight I think the ride might get ruff from here.”

After drinking the Ginger Ale they went to check on Rebecca. Coming in the door Albert announced, “You Just missed it. Rebecca was awake and talked to me. She’s in a lot of pain, but she told me thank you. I don’t know what for, but it felt good hearing it. Then the Doctor gave her some more medicine, and she slipped away again.”

Suzy replied, “I’m sure she’ll know you’ve been by her side. She has been in and out a few times I’m sure. She’s just trying to put the pieces together.”

Suzy sat in the other chair and talked to Rebecca for a while, as Albert knotted off. Quietly Jim and Suzy slipped out the door, and Albert fell in to a deep sleep. In a dream his wife Adeline came to him, “Oh my dear sweet love. How I’ve longed to be with you. You do have Rebecca that I sent to you. She will help you be strong for what is coming. You need to prepare for the battle between good and evil. You will be the master of iron. You know it well. You know how it bends and what makes it strong. You can learn to be one with it. Use it like a well-trained horse my dear. This will defeat evil along with innocents and love. Remember I’m with you always giving you the power you need. Tell James Autum sent me to you. He will understand.”

Thin she faded away, and Albert slowly awoke.

At the Hotel Jim and Suzy were sitting down for dinner. The waiter informed, “Tonight the Cook has prepared Lasagna with garlic bread, and a baked apple with sugar and cinnamon to create a crisp caramelized coating. For your drink do you want coffee, tea, or milk?”

After dinner they retired to their room. In bed Suzy revealed, “There’s something I need to tell you. Before I met you Autum was coming to me. In the first dream she told me. I’m your cousin Autum the Witch killed me today. I know all about you. Who you really are and where you come from. You came into this family from love, and that is all I ask of you. I need your love now for your cousin Jim. Love him, fell my void. Keep him safe in this fight he’s in. It will be hard and challenging at times, but remember I’ll be with you. You must defeat the Witch and set Jim free. I’ll work to make Jim accept you, so don’t quit. Be strong and push hard for whatever is needed. Remember I’ll be right there with you. Jim can do it you just have to push him. I’ll send him to you when the time is right. Don’t worry you’ll know when that happens. She told me to never lie to you. Then she faded away.

 

[gonewacky]

The truth is I haven’t lied to you, but I have deceived you.”

Jim replied, “I didn’t know Autum was coming to you before we met, but I do know who you are. I just don’t know where you come from. I have deceived you too. Some of the farm money I used that you asked me about. I spent on a detective. He found you were adopted when you were days old. No Hanson blood pumps through your veins. I thought if you wanted me to know you’d tell me. Consider that done. Now put your head on my shoulder. Lay your arm over me like every night, so I can get to sleep.”

Suzy cuddled up to Jim and drifted off to dream land.

Back in Dention Emily spent the night with Hank in his living quarters. Emily revealed, “You have a big heart Hank. I didn’t know you liked children so much. You spent the entire day with every kid under ten. There were over a dozen of them. Then at the end you took the name of everyone under sixteen, and promised them a candy from the store for helping. Yes Hank you have a lot of love in you.”

Hank replied, “You’re mistaken Emily. That was just business. With James gone if I didn’t get that field planted I would never get my money back.”

Emily insisted, “Now Hank you already told James it was too late to plant a crop. You didn’t expect to get your money back anyway.”

Just then they heard a crack of thunder, and the sound of rain pounding down echoed in the air. Hank replied, “You’re right Emily love wins again. That right there is the sound of money for a farmer.”

Emily inquired, “What do you think about James and Suzan. They both do their own thing, yet they support each other in what they do.”

Hank revealed, “That there is true love Emily. Look how Suzan dresses and how outspoken she is. She prides herself at being as good as any man, and stands behind it. I’ve never seen her pull her gun, but I’d bet she would pull it without a thought when needed.

Then there’s Jim carefree and takes things as they come. He leads with his heart in his hand, yet he’s fearless. Remember what he did at the robbery with the story he told? Either he has no fear, is extremely brave, or he’s insane. I think we know which it is. I think Albert was wise to make him a Deputy.

Yes James and Suzan are made for each other. They go together like Bread and Butter, a Needle and Thread, or Cookies and Milk. Both are different, but made to go together.”

Emily insisted, “I couldn’t have said it any better Hank. That’s why I love you, and I know you love kids. You’re always the one to sale them candy, and I know you enjoy it.”

Hank went on, “I think with only Henry and Mable at the Boardinghouse. We should take a pot roast to Victoria tomorrow morning. There will only be six of us for dinner. “

Jim awoke to the sound of thunder, and then heard rain pounding on the roof. Jim cried out. “Damn it!”

Suzy whispered, “What’s the matter James?”

Jim laid back and whispered, “I just wanted to have the crop planted before it rained.”

Suzy moaned, “It’ll be fine James. We’ll work something out.”

The next morning Jim awoke to the sound of the rain. Stretching out his arms and yawning Jim expressed, “It must be a big storm it’s still raining.”

With the rain lasting the entire day Jim and Suzy spent most of the day in the hotel, and visiting Rebecca. Then on Monday they found the street had turned to mud, they walked the entire length of the boarded sidewalk. From one end to the other looking for a place to cross the street, but the mud was everywhere. Jim looked up and down the street and took Suzy’s hand. Then they blinked out appearing on the other side of the street. Going into the doctor’s office they saw Albert sleeping in the chair next to Rebecca holding her hand. Her eyes were open and she looked at them without moving. Her eyes followed Suzy as she walked to the chair next to the bed. Suzy kissed her on the forehead and whispered, “Welcome back my dear friend.”

Rebecca mumbled, “The bad guys?”

Suzy spoke softly, “Albert put them in Jail. They will never do something like that again. Don’t worry about that. Just get better so we can get Albert back.”

Rebecca squeezed Albert’s hand and he awoke. Albert looked at Rebecca as she smiled at him.”

Albert ran his fingers through her hair as the doctor came in, “I see we’re awake. How do you feel?”

Rebecca replied, ‘My arm and side hurt.”

The Doctor informed, “I’ll get you something for that in just a minute. Let’s see how you’re doing first.”

Patrick pushed his stethoscope to her chest and listened. Then he moved it down to her back on the side and requested, “Take a deep breath please.”

Rebecca moaned and cried out, “It hurts.”

Moving to the other side of the bed by Albert Patrick assured, “I know sweetie, but we got to make sure no water is building up in your lungs. Now take another deep breath please.”

Rebecca moaned as she took a breath and Patrick informed, “Sounds good. I’ll get you something for the pain.”

Then he went across the hall and came back with a glass of milky looking water. Handing Rebecca the glass Patrick advised, “I’m giving you less medicine, so you won’t sleep so much. If you start having too much pain let me know. I’ll up the amount a little.”

Patrick took the glass and called Jim out of the room with him. In the room across the hall the doctor questioned, “Dose Rebecca know about the time thing?”

Jim replied, “No one knows but the four of us. It’s just like we told you when you did the surgery. Only the ones in this room know what happened.”

Patrick questioned, “Now that she’s becoming more alert. If she asks how she got here what do I tell her.”

Jim replied, “Tell her the truth. That Albert brought her here.”

Patrick assured, “I got it. That’s all I need to know. After all she is a reporter you know, and the editor of the paper Richard has been here to see her.”

Jim laughed, “It’s all good Patrick. Richard would never print any of that stuff if you told him anyway.”

In the hall Jim took Suzy’s arm and looked around. Then he blinked them out and they appeared in their room. The first thing they saw was a woman’s back who was looking out the window. She spun around with a gun in her hand, and announced, “You bastard! The Judge is coming tomorrow on the stage, and they’re going to hang Jack. It’s only fair if I’m losing my love you lose yours.”

Jim saw her finger move and slowed time. With the bullet spinning at Suzy Jim and Suzy blinked out. Appearing next to the truck Jim opened the door and started the truck. Taking Suzy’s arm he blinked back to the hotel room. After jerking the gun from her hand he took her arm and blinked out.

Jim dropped off the woman in the woods. Then he went to the truck and started time.

When Jim returned Suzy questioned. Where did you take her?”

Jim replied, “I dropped her off at the old Wayne place. I was there with Albert when we we’re looking for the Shelton gang. It’s out in the middle of nowhere. She’ll be walking for a few days to get out of there. The Marshal told me to stop bringing people to jail. I don’t know if he would lock up a woman anyway.”

Suzy demanded, “Take me there!”

Jim insisted, “I don’t think that’s necessary.”

Suzy pointed her finger at Jim’s crotch and scolded, “You take me there, or you won’t be able to walk for a day or so.”

Jim grabbed her hand and blinked out. Appearing at the old Wayne place Suzy called out, “Over here Bitch!”

The woman turned around as a ball of bright swirling energy appeared in Suzy’s hand. The woman questioned, “What’s going on here? How the hell did we get here?”

Suzy threw the ball of bright swirling energy at the base of a hundred foot tree. It exploded and the tree fell to the ground. Then Suzy pointed at the stump that was left, and shot out a lightning bolt. The stump started pulsating and blew into a million little slivers. With that Suzy replied, “Next time you try something like that I’ll kill you!”

The woman started screaming and ran off. Suzy insisted, “Take us back James.”

In a flash they were back at the Hotel room, and headed down to lunch. Over at the Doctor’s office Albert was spending a lot of time thinking. He was trying to understand what Adeline had told him, and wondering who Autum was. He was sure Adeline was talking about the Truck. It was the Iron Horse, and she did tell him he would be the master of Iron. She also told him to use it like a well-trained horse. With this Albert determined he would be the master of the Iron Horse.

 

[gonewacky]

Chapter Seventeen - Wells Fargo

The big day had arrived. Jim awoke with butterflies in his stomach. He didn’t know what to expect. He thought they would just give him the money. Not some big ceremony in the street at midday. After having breakfast and visiting Rebecca. Albert, Suzy, and Jim went to the ceremony. A Stagecoach was parked in front of the Wells Fargo Stage Line and Lambert city Freight Office. The studio had their camera set up across the street In front of Steph’s Restaurant with people gathering all around on both sides of the camera.

Seeing Albert and Jim coming one of the two Wells Fargo representatives announced, “Here comes the man of the hour James White. We at Wells Fargo would like to present you with this Wells Fargo Key. With this key you and a guest can ride on any available seat on a Wells Fargo stagecoach wherever we go. Now on behalf of Wells Fargo I am honored to present you with this bank draft for One thousand dollars for the capture of Jack Callen. Do you have a few words to say?

Jim replied, “I’m not much for this kind of stuff. I’ll just say thank you.”

Albert spoke up, “I’ll speak for James. I have learned a lot about James, and that’s why I made him my Deputy. In James’s mind he just wants to fill your hearts with cheer, and take away all our fear. Thank you, and now it’s time to spend some of this money around town.”

With that Jim walked down to the bank with Suzy and Albert. At the bank Jim turned over the bank draft. The banker informed Jim that Wells Fargo had deposited seventy pounds of gold coins to cover his draft. Jim withdrew a hundred in gold and left the rest in the bank. He put four twenty dollar gold coins, two five dollar gold coins, and four 1845-O Liberty Head gold 2 ½ Dollar coins. Witch Suzy insisted Jim give her two of.

Jim questioned, “Where are we going first Suzan?”

Suzy replied, “That shop where we looked at the dresses. I have to get a dress for Rebecca.”

Jim insisted, “The “Apex and more” right?”

In the shop Suzy got a green dress for twenty dollars for Rebecca, and a red spotted blue dress for Margaret for twelve fifty. Then she looked at a suit and questioned, “What do you think James?”

Jim complained, “I’m never waring something like that. I’m not a dude if that is what they call it.”

Albert replied, “I don’t see it. Put James in a flannel shirt and jeans maybe, but not a dude.”

Suzy insisted, “Not for you silly, for Jesse Wilson.”

Jim replied, “Oh in that case it looks nice.”

Suzy insisted, “I have one more stop I need to make. I need to stop at the Wells Fargo Stage Line Office.”

At the office Suzy made arrangements to have a package delivered. She got a sheet of paper from the attendant, and wrote a letter. Then she folded it in half and set the two gold coins on it. Then she insisted, “I would like to have this delivered on December, 18, 2016.”

The man’s eyes opened wide as he questioned, “Did I here you right December, 18, 2016?”

Suzy insisted, “Yes to Oliver Turner 721 North Third St. Lambert, Idaho. On December, 18, 2016,”

The attendant wrapped the letter and coins with heavy paper and tided a string around it. Then he marked it, “To Oliver Turner 721 North Third St. Lambert, Idaho. To be delivered on December, 18, 2016,”

Then he looked at Suzy and insisted, “There will be a storage fee for something like that. 142 years at 5¢ a year $7.10 plus 30¢ for delivery would be $7.40.”

Suzy instructed Jim to pay the man. Then they headed back to drop off Rebecca’s dress.



It was about three in the afternoon when the armored truck pulled in front of the coin shop. Then a news crew pulled in right behind it. A man got out wearing a red Wells Fargo shirt. Then from the back came two armed guards caring a case. The television news crew followed filming everything.

By this time Oliver was staring intensely out the window, as they came in the door.

The man wearing the Wells Fargo shirt walked to the counter and questioned, “Is Oliver Turner here?”

Oliver Replied. “That would be me.”

The man asked, “Can I see some ID to verify that.”

Oliver pulled out his wallet and retrieved his Driver’s License. Looking over his ID he handed it back to Oliver. Then he explained, “On behalf of Wells Fargo and our honor to fulfil all agreements. We are delivering a package from 1874.”

Then turning to the guards he requested the case. Setting the case on the counter he disclosed, “There is a bit of a problem with the delivery date. With anything over a hundred and forty years old things happen to them. With this package the delivery date was damaged. All we could make out was the month ended in what could have been an N, M, or an O ber. We were not sure if it was September, October, November, or December. Erroring on the side of being early instead of late we chose September. There was also a problem with the year. We could not determine if the year ended with a 6 or an 8. Again to erroring on the side of being early rather than late we chose 6. This is why we chose to deliver this to you on this day September, 18. 2016.”

Opening the case he removed a clipboard and a handmade envelope with a string tied around it. Turning around the clipboard and sliding it to Oliver he requested, “Just sign here for the package.”

After Oliver signed it the man put his hand on the package and questioned, “We just wanted to know how someone over 140 years ago knew you would be here, and know your name?”

Caught off guard Oliver had to come up with something. Oliver hypothesized, “Well… I was named after my great great grandfather, and my family owned this entire block back then. I’m just as stunned as you are.”

The man just smiled and said, “Wells Fargo thanks you for putting your trust in us. Have a nice day.” Then he slid the envelope over to Oliver.

The news reporter yelled, “What’s in the package? Are you going to open it?”

Oliver picked up the package and walked straight to the safe, pulled open the door, and slid in the package. Then he shut the door turn the handle and gave the dial a spin.

The news reporter yelled, “Aren’t you going to open it?”

Oliver yelled back, “Not today.”

Walking back to the counter Oliver questioned, are you buying anything.”

The reporter turned to the camera man and said, “That’s it lets go.” Leaving a card on the counter the reporter requested, “Give me a call. We’ll talk,” and went out the door.

Oliver walked around and locked the door and turned around the closed sign. Then he opened the safe and retrieved the package. Taking it to the backroom he set it on his desk and took a seat. Pulling a knife from his desk he cut the string. Then he folded back the corners of the homemade envelope, and there sat two shiny gold coins.



His hand trembled as he slipped the letter from under the coins. The paper was dry and the letter crumbled a little as he opened it. He left it on the desk as he read, “Hay you tricky old man. Hope this letter didn’t make too much trouble for you. You should find two 1845-O Liberty Head gold 2 ½ Dollar coins. This is my gift to you for making it possible for me to get here. I hope this covers the favor I owe you. I’m looking forward to seeing you soon. Your little lady Suzy.”

Oliver’s eyes watered up and every part of his body shook. Wild thoughts raced through his head. You’re one of a kind little lady. Hope you’re having the time of your life. Not only is this the first tip I ever got, but forty or fifty thousand dollar tip is unbelievable. May your trip be filled with all the joy and excitement life has to offer.

Back in 1874 Jim, Suzy, and Albert were heading back to Dention. Albert complained about how slow the wagon went. Jim laughed, “Albert has been spoiled by the truck. Suzan do the ball thing and I’ll think of the Wilson farm.

Suzy threw a ball in the air and shot it with a lightning bolt. The stars rained down and they were going down the road to the Wilson’s. Tommy came running to the house yelling, “James is here.”

Jesse and the girls came out of the house. Holding his head high Jesse informed, “All planted James. Thanks to Hank we got the seed in before the rain.”

Jim explained, “We’re on our way back from Lambert. I thought we’d pick up Charlie and Patty. Think you can help me tether them to the wagon.”

After tethering Charlie and Patty to the wagon they were off. Back on the road Albert complained, “It takes half a day to get to Lambert by wagon, and about half that on horseback. I don’t think I could ride that hard there and back on horseback. It would tear me up. With a wagon I’d get there in time to come back. I should have never left, and just stayed there with Rebecca.”

Suzy replied, “Just have Jim blink you there, or take the truck Albert.”

Jim insisted, “Albert needs to take the truck so he can learn about it. What it will do and how it dose it. I will blink you there anytime you want Albert, but you need to be able to use the truck.”

Albert confessed, “My wife Adeline came to me in a dream. A lot of what she told me didn’t make sense. She told me to prepare for the battle between good and evil. Then she told me I’d be the master of iron. She told me to learn to be one with it, and use it like a well-trained horse. She told me she was giving me the power I’d need. Then she said tell James Autum sent me to you. He will understand.”

Suzy exclaimed, “Albert! You’re going to be Iron Man, and get powers. I’ll bet you learn to do things.”

Jim mumbled, “Iron Horse, Iron Man bet I know what his powers are going to be.”

Albert replied, “I’m glad you understand, because what Adeline told me didn’t make much sense. Like when she told me I would need innocents and love to defeat evil. Anyone can use love, but you’d be hard pressed to find someone with innocents. It’s not me for sure.”

Jim insisted, “That counts me out.”

Suzy explained, “I’ve learned what comes from the other side comes in riddles. You have to solve it. If you don’t you will get more clues, and have to put them together. Don’t give up it will come to you in time.”

They were getting close to town when Jim said he had to do something and blinked out. Albert and Suzy were starting to worry. Jim had been gone for a while. Then Albert saw him standing up ahead on the road. Albert pulled the wagon to a stop, and Jim jumped up next to Suzy. Dropping a cloth bag on Suzy’s lap Jim requested, “Hold my wallet for me. Sorry I had to wait for you. I’ve never tried to jump to something that was moving, and I didn’t know what would happen. I just jumped ahead of you and waited.”

Suzy complained, “What the hell this is heavier than shit.”

Jim replied, “Almost thirty pounds of gold coins. It’s mostly twenty dollar gold pieces or $400 in gold. I left the other half of the money in the Bank. Now I can pay Henry and Hank.”

Albert pulled the wagon up to the livery. Henry met them and exclaimed, “I see you brought my team back.”

Jim blurted, “$200 for six months boarding of my team, and you get to keep whatever you make renting them out.”

Henry replied, “$220 Cash right now and it’s a deal.”

Jim yelled, “Deal,” as he jumped down from the wagon putting out his hand. With a tight grip Jim shook Henry’s hand, and got his bag of money from Suzy. After settling up with Henry they all headed to the general store. On the way Jim asked, “Anyone want anything before I pay my bill?”

Albert requested. “I would like a neckless for Rebecca if you will James. I thought if we took off one of the little bolts on the shifter cover. Then I could put the washer on the neckless.”

Suzy looked at Jim and exclaimed. “He wants a part of our truck James.”

Jim replied, “I know, and he doesn’t even want it for himself. He just wants to give it away. Sounds like a love thing to me.”

Suzy insisted, “Then in that case I get to pick out the neckless.”

At the general store Suzy asked Emily if they had any gold chains.

Emily replied, “Hank has some wedding bands and gold Jewelry, but he keeps them hid. He’ll have to help you with that.”

Jim barked, “Then get Hank out here. I can’t pay my bill until he puts what she wants on the bill.”

Emily went in the back, and came back with Hank. Setting a little box on the counter Hank asked, “What was it you wanted?”

Suzy informed, “I’m looking for a gold chain neckless.”

Hank replied, “I don’t have a lot of that stuff, there’s not much call for it in this town. I have a few gold wedding bans, a few ear rings, but I only have one gold chain and it has a locket on it. I would let it go for forty dollars.”

Hank pulled it from the box and laid it on the counter. Suzy removed the locket from the chain and offered, “$35 for the chain.”

Hank thought for a minute and replied, “James that brings your bill to $72.45.”

With that Jim pulled out four twenty dollar gold pieces, and set them on the counter. Hank opened the drawer on the register and got Jim his change. Then he scooped up the gold coins and put them in his pocket. Looking at Jim Hank informed, “Your pump and pipe will be in Wednesday, so you best get digging the ditch to the well.”

Jim replied, “Dang it, I thought I was on vacation. I need to hire a carpenter to build the sink cabinet.”

Hank looked at Albert and questioned, “What do you think about Herm Albert?”

Albert replied, “That would be my choice.”

 

[gonewacky]

Hank informed, “I’ll send Herm by the house to give you a price for it.”

James replied, “Thanks Hank.”

Later that night in their room Jim explained, “I picked out a good spot to jump to in Lambert. I’m going to take Albert there tonight. Do you want to go?”

Suzy replied, “Sure. Just come get me.”

Jim went to Albert’s room and knocked on the door. Albert opened the door a crack and peeked out. Seeing Jim he grabbed his arm and pulled him in. Then he informed, “We have to be careful about Benjamin. He’s a sneaky little bastard.”

Jim questioned, “You ready?”

Albert replied, “Anytime.”

With that Jim gripped his arm an in a flash they were standing in an alley in Lambert. Then Jim blinked out and got Suzy. Albert had only taken about two steps when they appeared. They went and saw Rebecca and Jim blinked them back.

The next morning Suzy got up when she heard Victoria in the kitchen. Helping Victoria make the bread Suzy insisted, “It’s nice to be back home.”

Victoria questioned, “Did you have a good time sweetie?”

Suzy replied, “The first day a little, but I worried about Rebecca a lot. It’s hard to have a good time when you’re worrying about a part of your family, and don’t know if they’re going to make it. Then we had rain day and night, and everything turned to mud. I’m just happy to be home.”

Victoria questioned, “How’s Rebecca doing?”

Suzy replied, “She’s doing the best that can be expected for being shot in the arm and chest. The Doctor is going to see if she can sit in a chair a little today, but it’s going to be over a week before she can come home.”

Victoria insisted, “We’ll have to do something special for that day.”

Suzy replied, “I’m sure Albert will like that.”

Victoria disclosed, “I take it you learned about Albert and Rebecca.”

Suzy replied, “Oh yes the editor-in-chief of the paper Mr. Ryan told us all about Albert, and how he became Sheriff. Yes we know about Albert and Rebecca. Albert spent the entire time at Rebecca’s side.”

Victoria informed, “I knew he would. After all she did it for them. Then there is the sneaking around at night. I think we all know about that. We all knew it was bad, because a man from Lambert came into the store. He told Emily that Rebecca was in surgery for over four hours, and was hanging on by a thread. Oh here comes Benjamin you better start some pancakes.”

After breakfast Jim, Albert, and Henry left for work. Suzy and Victoria sat at the table and enjoyed a cup of coffee.

Down at the Blacksmith Shop Albert started a fire in the forge, and Jim blinked out. Well Jim was gone Henry showed up with a horse.

Looking at Albert Henry announced, “I need this one reshot, and I have two more after this one. That money from Jim came at the right time. I need it more than you know.”

Albert winked, “Don’t worry Henry I got your back.”

Henry went back to the livery, and Jim blinked to the back of the Blacksmith shop. Coming in the back door Jim tossed Albert a Boult with a nut and washer. Then he insisted he make one to replace it.

Albert just stared at Jim and questioned, “You have any idea what it takes to put threads on something small?”

Jim replied, “No, but I’m sure Iron Man can do it.”

Albert just shook his head and put the little bolt in his pocket.

Over 300 miles away Jake and Wind Walker sat in their World War II Sikorsky R-4 helicopter. Jake questioned, “How long have we been doing this Walker?”

Walker replied, “Oh hell I don’t know. Like 50 to 70 years I guess. It’s hard to tell when you’re jumping around time like we do.”

Jake went on, “In all this time we haven’t aged so much as a day, and I have no idea how many we’ve sent back to Hell. Then there are the others we met. The husband and wife with the Covered Wagon in California, the guy with the dirt Bike in Texas, and how about that nut case in Alaska with the Polar bear.”

Walker butted in, “I believe that guy is a spirit. How else could he sleep and talk with that bear. I know what you’re trying to get to Jake. I feel it to.”

Jake insisted, “I’ve been feeling it more and more every day. There has to be a new arrival somewhere.

Walker assured, “Well we’ll know when the first fight happens. There will be a wake through the time passages.”

Back at the Black Smith shop Albert was pounding out a shoe for Henry’s horse and Jim was sitting in front of the Horse Shoe talking to Josette.

Hank walked up to the Black Smith shop to talk with Albert. Hank questioned, “Did you hear about Lucas Westover?”

Albert replied, “No what about Lucas?”

Hank went on, “He was digging a posthole for a new corral and he hit a Yellowjacket Nest. His wife heard him screaming and went to see what was happening. She saw the bees swarming, but was unable to get to Lucas. There was nothing she could do. He was already stung to death. I heard he swelled up so bad you couldn’t even recognize him.”

Albert replied, “You know their farm is next to the Hanson place, and just south of the old Cooper place. What do you think about that?”

Hank recanted, “A Bear, a Wolf, a Mountain Lion, the Birds, and now a bee attack. Something just isn’t right about this.”

Albert insisted, “The fact is there’s nothing I can do about things like this. I have to have evidence to show a law was broken. You want me to start arresting wild animals and bugs?”

Hank replied, “Well of course not, but we can’t just let this keep happening.”

Albert replied, “I’m working on it. It just takes time to put a plan together”

Hank mumbled as he walked off, “You better get with it Albert. Soon they’ll be coming after the businesses in town.”

Across the street Josette was telling Jim she made up an advertisement for a cook, and was going to give it to Clyde when the Stage came through. Then she told Jim about her plans to gut out the restaurant, and replace all the walls and floors. Josette insisted that her husband would want her to keep their dream alive.

Jim dropped his head and whispered, “When you love someone you give a part of yourself to them, and they give a part of themselves to you. When they die that part of you goes with them, and it hurts. You’ve lost a part of your very being. Just remember it was replaced with a part of Barney, and you carry that part of him with you. Now Barney’s right here with you seeing everything you do.

I’m here for you to Josette. I think you should start right away. Hire some men to start the work, and I’ll pay them. Then you can pay me back when you get the reward money.”

Josette slipped her hand on Jim’s and whispered, “Suzan is a lucky woman Jim. You tell her a dinner date is on me when the Horse Shoe is going again. Barney would want that.”

Jim walked back to the Black Smith Shop, and Albert told him about Lucas being killed by bees. Jim told Albert what Josette told him about Myrtle Hill, “Myrtle and Tom were on their way to Lambert when Tom stopped to let Myrtle take a pee. She squatted next to the wagon and was bit on the ass by a rattlesnake. The wagon had run over the snake, and the wheel was on the snake’s tail. That’s why she didn’t hear it. Tom shot the snake, and cut the bite with his knife. Then he tried to suck out the poison, and drove as fast as he could to Lambert. Unfortunately Myrtle died before he got there. I guess Tom is going to sale his place and move back to Ohio. He said that this free land cost too much.”

Albert threw his Hammer down and stomped his foot as he yelled “Damn it.”

Jim questioned. “Are you alright Albert?”

Albert replied, “Oh hell no! I’m taking the Iron Horse and going to visit Rebecca. I got to get out of here and think.”

Jim replied, “That’s good, but I need to show you something first.”

Then Jim stood next to Albert and looked around. Not seeing anyone Jim took Albert’s arm and blinked them to the truck. He climbed in the cab and started the truck to stop time. Then with time stopped Jim retrieved a book from the compartment over the windshield. Opening the book Jim handed it to Albert.

Albert looked at the open page as Jim explained, “This book tells how the truck works and what each thing is named. You need to learn everything on this page and how it works. Now help me open the doors and you’re off.”

As Albert drove down the road Jim blinked home. Suzy gave him a what the hell look and questioned, “What now?”

Jim replied, “Albert got all upset about something and took the truck to see Rebecca. I thought we could blink there and see Rebecca well Albert drove the truck there. Then we could blink back and I could work on the ditch for the pump.”

Suzy wined, “Well that’s better than sitting here waiting for time to start.”

With that Jim took Suzy’s hand and blinked them to Lambert.

Albert took the truck down the road trying all the gears knobs and levers. He was like a kid on a fair or carnival ride for the first time. He was checking out everything. He got the truck going fast, and turned off the road. The Truck was bouncing all over, and Albert flew across the seat as the truck went up on the wheels on one side. Panicking Albert yelled, “Stop!” The truck turned off and time stopped. Albert was pushed against the passenger door. With his face squashed against the window. His heart pounded hard as he looked out the windshield. He could see the tall grass pushed against the door glass. That’s when it hit him the truck turned off all by itself. Albert fought his way back to the steering wheel. Gripping the Wheel tight Albert commanded, “Truck on!”

The truck fell back on to all the wheels as it bounced around. Then Albert commanded, “Clutch pedal in, brake pedal on.” The Clutch pedal went to the floor, and the truck came to a stop. Then he ordered, “Transmission second gear, clutch pedal out.” The truck shifted all by itself, and started moving forward. Albert thought, If Jim could only see me now. Then patting the dash he mumbled, “Thanks buddy for saving my ass. We just won’t tell Jim about that little thing”

In Lambert Jim and Suzy walked down the street window shopping. That’s when Suzy saw a woman who’s eyes were watching her. Suzy announced, “Jim look I found one that can watch us when time is stopped. Jim and Suzy walked up in front of the woman. Suzy insisted, “Let me try something. In the name of Jesus I rebuke you now leave this woman.”

Then she heard a voice amongst squealing and howling say “We are the legion of Augusta. You have no power over us.”

James looked at Suzy and cried, “Oh my God Suzan. There are thousands of them.”

Suzy stepped back as time started again. Jim blurted, “Oh crap Albert stopped the truck.”

The woman came to life and demanded, “You need to leave this land. This is the land of Augusta and you’re not welcome here.”

Suzy looked up and down the street and noticed people were looking at them. Then time stopped again. Jim hypothesized, “Albert must have killed the truck and had to restart it. That’s just a part of learning to drive.”

Suzy insisted, “I want to check out the people that are looking at us.”

Jim and Suzy went up and down the street checking out people frozen in time. Jim complained, “Oh crap that one makes five. Almost half of the people we’ve checked can move their eyes and watch us, and we’ve just done one side of the street. This town is like the land of the demons.”

Suzy insisted, “Let’s go visit Rebecca until Albert gets here. This town just got scary.”

Inside the doctor’s office Suzy sat next to Rebecca and took her hand. She opened her eyes as she came to life. Suzy explained, “We came to see you dear friend. Albert is on his way. He had to do some Sheriff stuff.”

Rebecca exclaimed, “You just missed Mr. Ryan. He was here to see me.”

Suzy replied, “I like Richard he’s real nice. He took James and I to the theater to see The Belles of the Kitchen. We enjoyed it a lot.”

Rebecca replied, “Mr. Ryan took Albert and I to the theater when Albert got elected Sheriff. Then he took us again on music night. You should go on music night if you get the chance. You’ll love it.”

Just then Jim heard the truck down the street. Walking to the door Jim announced, “Sounds like Albert’s here. I’m going to meet him.”

Out front Jim saw the truck coming down the road. Albert was sitting on the hood with his feet on the bumper, as the truck guided its way around a wagon in the street. Albert was calling out commands, “Turn right, now straighten out, back to the left and straighten out.”

Pulling in front of the doctor’s office Albert barked, “Clutch pedal in, brake pedal on, transmission neutral, clutch pedal out, brake lever engage.”

Jim’s mouth dropped open as Albert jumped down from the truck. Walking past Jim to the doctor’s office Albert whispered, “Iron Man.”

In the clinic sitting next to Rebecca Albert squeezed her hand and questioned, “Have you seen your brother Tom?”

Rebecca replied, “No, not unless he was here well I was asleep.”

Albert continued, “Tom and Myrtle were on their way to see you, and Myrtle got bit by a rattlesnake. Tom tried to save her, but she passed away before they got here.”

Rebecca cried out, “Nooo!” As a tear slipped down her face.

Albert whispered, “I’m so sorry my love.”

Jim couldn’t believe what he was hearing, and went outside to think. He didn’t even know Rebecca had a brother, or that he lived just outside of their town. He felt bad about the way he told Albert, because he didn’t know it would hit him that way. Then there was the way Albert was driving the truck from the hood. How did he learn to do that? Then there was the fact they were surrounded by possessed people completely controlled by evil spirits. Jim thought, Put the lid back on the beehive Jim.

Suzy stepped next to Jim and questioned, “How you doing Jim?”

Jim whispered, “I’m putting the lid back on the beehive.”

Suzy whispered, “Me too. Why don’t you blink us home?”

Jim took her hand and in a flash they were at the Boardinghouse. Jim went to the coach house and got a shovel. Then went down to the well and started digging a hole. Suzy got her chair from the porch, and went down to watch Jim.

After digging for hours Jim had made it about twenty feet. Then Suzy announced, “Benjamin is coming. That means Albert’s back, and time has started again.”

Benjamin looked in the ditch and exclaimed, “Damn James you’ve been busting your ass.”

Jim looked at Benjamin and questioned, “What do you know about Demons Benjamin?”

 

[gonewacky]

Benjamin replied, “I’ve read about them. Why do you ask?”

Jim replied, “I think Suzan and I saw one.”

Benjamin went on, “Well from what I read. A demon is capable of deceiving us to such a degree that we have reason to doubt the totality of what our senses tell us. A demons spirit is doing the Devil's work, they have additional duties causing humans to have sinful thoughts and tempting humans to commit sinful actions. A demon is believed to be a spiritual entity that may be conjured and controlled. Demons are still feared largely due to their alleged power to possess living creatures. Demons are subordinate to the absolute power of evil, Demons are both corrupted and evil themselves. Demons possess no substance on their own and can only attach themselves to material agents. People who worship demons are blamed to give them power. The primary way for demons to corrupt humans and cause suffering, Demons can also manifest through their worshippers.

However, demons do not increase their power only through acts in their favor but also by every act against the supreme good. Everyday actions might be considered a form of demon-worship. For example, cutting one's hair or nails and keeping them on the ground is understood as a sacrifice to the demons. Just like the demons' power increase by acts of wickedness, they are weakened by good deeds. Performing invocations of the only God are considered especially helpful.

Now about the possibility for humans to turn into demons, a human who performs sexual immoralities or worships demons becomes a demon after death. A wicked person might be considered a demon in his lifetime, but only turns completely into one after death. Fallen angels known from Christian scriptures are demons. Demons are supernatural being possessing people of the Lie.

Jim questioned, “What about a Witch Benjamin?”

Benjamin replied, “Oh a Witch can be a demon. Most Witches are demons. One kind of Witch is one that worships evil, and the other kind is the demon possession. The demon possessed Witch is the worst kind. The person whom the demon possess is dead and gone. This gives the demon complete control of the body to do its biding. The demon takes over the body at death. Most times at a point of great pain when the woman is vulnerable during death. Like at child birth, or when the woman has suffered a bad painful wound. That’s about all I know about Demons James.”

Jim shook his head as he responded, “Well that’s a lot more than I knew. Which was about nothing, but they were evil.”

Jim stomped on the shovel to shove it in the dirt. Then he stepped out of the hole, and announced, “I’m beat I think I’m going to go take a nap.”

Benjamin teased, “It’s not even time to eat yet. You’re getting soft James. Go take your nap and I’ll dig for a while.”

Jim informed, “See that mark in the shovel handle. You need to keep the ditch that deep so the pipe doesn’t freeze in the winter.”

Benjamin insisted, “I got this just go take your nap.”

In their room Jim laid down and Suzy sat on her side of the bed bouncing up and down. The springs under the mattress squeaked as Suzy bounced.

Jim questioned. “Do you know what that sounds like?

Suzy yelled, “Oh yes!”

Jim whispered, “Victoria is going to think we’re having sex.”

In a high-pitched voice Suzy squealed, “I know, I know.”

Jim rolled over and put his pillow over his head, as Suzy bounced on the bed. After some time Suzy stopped and cuddled up to Jim. Then they drifted off to sleep. Benjamin came in for supper and announced, “I’ll knock on Jim’s door to let him know its supper time.”

Victoria insisted, “I wouldn’t do that Benjamin.”

Benjamin questioned, “Why not?”

Victoria replied, “I think their trying to make a baby.”

Benjamin mumbled, “Oh.” Then he sat at the table.

Soon Albert and Henry showed up. Albert questioned, “Where’s Jim?”

Benjamin replied, “In his room sleeping I think. They don’t want to be bothered.”

Albert replied, “Well it’s his belly not mine.”

There was a knock at the door and Albert’s voice rang out, “You better get up if you’re eating Dinner.”

After dinner the men went out on the porch. Suzy, Mable, and Emily staid at the table to talked. Emily told about Lucas getting stung to death, and Suzy told about Tom’s wife getting bit by the snake. Mable was taken to tears over Tom losing his wife, and how it would affect Rebecca.

 

[gonewacky]

Chapter Eighteen – To Kill a Witch

The days went on as Jim and Benjamin dug the ditch for the pipe. Albert would close up the Black Smith Shop at noon every day and have Jim blink him to Lambert after lunch. Then come and get him for dinner. When people asked where he was spending his time He would say, “I’m working on a murder case.”

A week and a half had gone by and Jim and Benjamin put in the pipe, pump, and sink cabinet.

Finely the day came when Rebecca was coming home. After breakfast Albert went straight to the Livery with Henry. He wasted no time hitching up Patty and Charlie to Jim’s wagon. Suzy started doing the dishes when Mable insisted, “Go, I’ll help Victoria clean up. Albert’s probably already got the team hooked up to the wagon. Don’t worry I’ll help with the cake.”

Suzy dried her hands and headed out the door. Albert was out front with the wagon as Suzy came around the house. Jim help Suzy on the wagon and they were on their way. About a half mile out of town Suzy threw a ball of bright flashing colored light in the air, and shot it with a lightning bolt. Thousands of little flashing stars rained down on them as Jim blinked them to the creek.

At the clinic Rebecca waited with excitement as Patrick gave her one last examination. The wound on her arm had healed nicely, but the one in her chest had not completely closed yet. Redressing the wound Patrick instructed. “I don’t want you bathing until this wound is completely closed up. You’re just going to have to wash with a washcloth like we’ve been doing here. You’ll need to change the dressing every day. If you have any swelling, or if it turns red around the wound get right back here.

Just then Albert, Suzy, and Jim walked in. Looking up Patrick announced, “Were just about done.”

Patrick gave Rebecca a jar and explained, “This is dried white willow bark. It helps with pain, reducing inflammation, and fever.

To make the tea add about 1 tablespoon full of bark chips for every cup of water. Boil the bark for 10 minutes, and then remove it from the heat and allow it to steep for about 30 minutes. Keep the tea in a container with a lid. Use one cup every six hours as needed. That would be four times a day. You have been doing very good and gone the last few days without any thing for pain. I’m sure this trip will change that, and it will take a few days to recover from the trip. Just don’t use it unless you need it. I thank you’re ready to go.”

A feeling of great enthusiasm filled Rebecca, as she thought of going home. Suzy praised, “You did a great job Patrick for using Stone Age tools.”

Patrick replied, “I never could have saved her if not for all you did.”

Then looking at Rebecca Patrick insisted, “You owe your life to them. You’ll never believe what they did to save you.”

Suzy pulled the chain with the washer on it out and butted in. “Oh yes she will Patrick.”

Then Suzy handed the chain to Albert insisting, “You should do this.”

Albert took the chain and slipped it over Rebecca’s head as he whispered, “I give you this with all my love.”

Rebecca held up the washer on the chain and exclaimed, “Albert this ring is never going to fit on my finger.”

Suzy explained, “Jim and I are time travelers and we stopped time to save you. With that chain and ring you’ll be like us when we stop time.”

Rebecca laughed, “I guess you come from the land of Unicorns?”

Patrick assured, “It’s true Rebecca it freaked me out when they first did it to me, but it let me save your life.”

Albert informed, “Jim’s Blip and Suzan is Lightning bolt or Fireball I haven’t figured her out yet.

With that Jim blinked out, and Suzy pointed her palms to the floor and levitated up. Then she pointed to the floor and shot out a little Lightning bolt. Then Suzy dropped back to the floor and disclosed, “That’s enough of that we don’t want to blowup or burn down the doctor’s office.”

Jim blinked back behind Rebecca and questioned. “We all ready to go?”

Rebecca gasped, “Oh my god. Who are you?”

Albert assured, “The same James and Suzan we know. Nothing has changed, but now you know where they come from.”

After a moment of disbelief, they all said their goodbyes and went to the wagon.

Albert helped Rebecca up on the wagon and got on next to her. Suzy got up on the other side and Jim got in the back. Albert gave the rains a whip as he called out, “Let’s go home Charlie you too Patty.”

Albert guided the wagon down the road slowly. Rebecca complained, “If you keep going this slow Albert it will take all day to get home.”

Albert looked at Suzy as she announced, “I’m on it.”

Then Suzy threw a ball of bright flashing colored light in the air, and shot it with a lightning bolt. Thousands of little flashing stars rained down on them as Jim blinked them to just outside of Dention.

Rebecca gasped, “What in the hell just happened?”

Albert put his arm around Rebecca and whispered, “You haven’t seen nothing yet darling. Hang with me and you’re in for the ride of a lifetime.”

Going down Main Street people were gathered up and down the street. They all waived and some yelled welcome home. Standing in the middle of the road was Hank holding a box. Albert stopped the wagon and Hank announced, “On behalf of the town of Dention we welcome you home. We have some stuff we thought you’d need. I’ll just put it in the back of the wagon.”

Hank slid the box in the wagon as Benjamin and Amos jumped on. Albert continued down the street to the Boardinghouse.

Helping Rebecca down from the wagon Albert took her by the waist, as she put her arms around his neck. Slipping down Rebecca squeezed Albert tight and whispered in his ear, “I love you with all my heart Albert.”

Then she slipped away taking his hand. Walking in the door Rebecca could smell the cake in the oven. With a smile Rebecca commented, “Something smells good.”

Mable announced, “It’s your cake, but you got home to soon. We thought it would be done by the time you got here. Victoria got out the last Jar of strawberry jam for it. All we have left is blackberry, apple butter, and Rhubarb until berry season.”

Rebecca chuckled, “Oh that hurts. Don’t do that to me. I knew the tea and toast lady would know what Preserves we have left.”

After dinner with everyone at the table Albert called out, “Truck on.” Everyone froze in time except Jim Suzy Rebecca and Albert. Rebecca gasped, “Did someone stop time?”

Jim replied, “Yep Albert did that.”

Looking surprised Rebecca exclaimed, “Albert you can do that?”

Suzy butted in, “Yep, Albert and James both can stop time, but Jim has to blink to the truck to do it. Now why did you stop time Albert?”

Albert revealed, “I’ve came up with a plan to get the Witch. We’ll need Tommy to do it. Remember I told you Adeline came to me and told me I would need innocents and love to stop the Witch. I think I’ve found the innocents. Oh and I was to tell James Autum sent Adeline to me. She said James would understand.”

Jim insisted, “I got you Albert. Just what is your plan?”

Suzy added, “We’re waiting Albert lest hear it.”

Albert continued, “I believe Tommy’s innocents will protect him from the Witch. We have a hanging machine on the front of the Truck. It’s the winch. If I can teach Tommy to put the winch cable around the Witch’s neck. I can hang her with the truck. The three of us can protect Tommy in case something goes wrong. I would like to stop time for about an hour or two every day, and have James blink Tommy to the truck. Then James can blink him back.”

Rebecca questioned, “What’s this Truck you keep talking about?”

Albert replied, “It’s an Iron Horse.”

Rebecca questioned, “Can I see this Iron Horse?”

Albert replied, “If James and Suzan agree to the plan. You can go with me and Tommy tomorrow.”

Suzy informed, “If James hadn’t saved Tommy he would be dead, so if something goes horribly wrong and he dies. Well I’m sure that won’t happen. I know how to fight that Witch from watching Autum in the future. Remember the lightning storm James?”

Jim added, “It was the day Bruce delivered the salt. I will never forget that day. I say we start training for Albert’s plan.”

Suzy agreed, “I’m in.”

Albert replied, “Then we start tomorrow. Truck off.”

Everyone came back to life, and Henry went outside to smoke his pipe.

That night Suzy slipped into dream land. In a dream an Indian with long black hair came to her. He explained we live in the land between good and evil. There is no time here this is a buffer zone between the living and the dead. It is also the place between the Angels and the Demons. Bird Man and I have been here fighting Demons for years, it’s hard to keep track of time when you’re jumping around through the time passages.

I’ve seen you in my dreams and know you have the power to make a ball of bright flashing colored light, or energy ball. I also know you can levitate in the air, and shoot lightning bolts from your finger. Other things happen if you throw an energy ball in the air, and shoot it with a lightning bolt. I know I too have this power.

There is only two ways to stop a demon. Either the person dies and goes to hell, or someone like us cast the demon out of you. You have that power Suzy. You can make an energy ball and slam it into their chest. Hold your hand over it as you command the spirit back into the ground. That energy is pure love and evil has no power over it. It will have to obey your command it has no choice.

If it doesn’t work then you have pure evil. The person is dead and their soul is gone. It’s just pure evil possessing the body. Then all you can do is hang them and burn the body. Then the demon can’t use that body anymore.

Jim has the same power as Bird Man he can slow time and just think of a place and he’s there. You can throw a ball of bright flashing colored light in the air, and shoot it with a lightning bolt. Then thousands of little flashing stars will rain down, and Jim can blink everyone and everything in the stars to any place and time. If time is not stopped he can also use it to slow time for everyone but the demon fighters in the wake of the stars. This allows you to move around with lighting speed.

There is one more thing I need to tell you. When in a fight it sends a wake through the time line, and sometimes it will send other fighters to your aide. I’m looking forward to meeting you. Now remember…

Then the Indian faded away, and Suzy slipped into another dream with Jim at her side. Margaret and Clara appeared in front of them. They both called out at the same time, “Mom!” Then Margaret and Clara spoke the same words at the same time, “You’re in the time between the living and the dead. This is the Crow’s passage between the living and the dead. You are not among the living or the dead here. Beware of the threats in this passage. The two of you are as one and carry the power of love. Then they gradually grew faint and disappeared. Jim and Suzy embraced each other. Then a bright wave of light came from Jim and Suzy and spread out across the land removing all evil things.

The next morning was like any other day. They all had breakfast and went to work. The difference was Rebecca went with Albert. Jim went to the back of the blacksmith shop and blinked to the Feed and Seed. Then he started the Truck, and went to get Tommy. Jim blinked him back to the truck, and put the little bolt in Tommy’s pocket. Albert opened the Blacksmith Shop, and took Rebecca’s hand and led her across the street.

Seeing the truck Rebecca gasped, “What’s that?”

Albert whispered in her ear, “It’s a Time Machine.”

All excited Tommy yelled, “Jim said you’re taking me in the Iron Horse Sheriff.”

With Rebecca at his side Albert kneeled on one knee and spoke softly. “Tell me Tommy what dose the Iron Horse run on?”

With enthusiasm Tommy answered, “Love of course. Everyone knows that.”

Albert continued, “And where are we?”

Tommy answered, “I’m not sure whose dream this is.”

Albert assured, “This is your dream Tommy. I came to teach you how to catch a Witch. You see the Iron Horse has a Witch catcher on it, but we need you to help us use it. Do you want to do that?”

Tommy kept looking at Rebecca, so Albert explained, “This is Rebecca she’s coming along to make sure we do it right.”

Tommy said, “I don’t think a girl could do this anyway unless it’s the Cowboy Lady. She could do just about anything.”

Albert insisted, “Then let’s get in the Iron Horse.”

Albert helped Rebecca in on the driver side, and Jim helped Tommy in on the passenger side. Then Albert drove the truck out of town, as Rebecca held his arm tight. Rebecca questioned, “You know what all the knobs and levers do?”

Albert chuckled, “Every one of them. James made sure of that.”

Back at the Boardinghouse Suzy sat on the porch waiting for Jim. Jim blinked in and sat next to Suzy in his chair. Suzy put her hand on Jim’s knee and confessed, “I had a dream last night.”

Jim blurted, “Me to. I dreamed you were talking to an Indian about our powers. Then our Mom’s came to see us.”

Suzy smiled and added, “Same dream. I would like to try to cast out a demon. Would you take me to Lambert?”

Jim took her hand and pulled Suzy to her feet. Then in a flash they were in Lambert in the middle of Main Street. Suzy and Jim walked down the street looking for someone watching them. Then Suzy announced, “Look there is one watching us his eyes are moving.”

Suzy walked up as she made an Energy Ball. Slamming it in his chest she ordered, “I command you to leave this sole. Back in the ground and to hell.”

The man’s eyes glowed bright red, and there was a loud squealing noise. Then a dark wispier of a shadow drifted into the ground. The man’s eyes went to normal, as Suzy exclaimed, “I did it. This is what we’re here for Jim.”

Jim announced, “Look over there that woman is one.”

Suzy cast the demon out and went down the board walk looking for another demon. Jim and Suzy found another demon woman, but the ball of bright flashing colored light had no effect. Then the woman came to life and shot a lightning bolt at Suzy. Putting up her hand Suzy blocked it, as Jim grabbed her arm and blinked them out of there.

Appearing in front of the Blacksmith Shop Jim saw the same couple crossing the street. Looking at Suzy Jim announced, “Time hasn’t changed since Albert left.”

Suzy replied, “Pure evil is what that was. I’ll have to be more careful from now on.”

Just out of town Albert was working with Tommy. Albert commanded, “Clutch pedal in Winch P.T.O. low, Clutch out.”

 

[gonewacky]

Pulling the cable up over his shoulder Tommy leaned his body forward, and pulled with all he had to drag the cable. Getting to the tree Tommy wrapped the cable around it and hooked it to itself. Then he ran back to Albert and Rebecca.

Albert yelled, “Clutch pedal in Winch P.T.O. Reverse High, Clutch out.”

With that command the cable pulled tight and pulled the small tree out of the ground. Albert smiled and said, “Good job Tommy. We’ll make a Witch catcher out of you in no time. I think this is good for today. You want to do it again tomorrow Tommy.”

Tommy replied, “Sure, can the Cowboy Lady come?”

Rebecca revealed, “I’ll talk to Suzy about it Tommy.”

With that they headed back.

That afternoon Suzy went in the store and Emily was waiting on a customer. Looking around she heard Emily add up his order.

“A pound of Butter 15¢, 2 pounds of sugar 20¢, 10 pounds of flour 40¢, a pound of coffee 12¢, and a pound of Lard 6¢.”

The man yelled, “You stupid bitch! I said a half pound of coffee.”

Suzy looked up as Emily went to reweigh the coffee. A small ball of bright swirling energy the size of a pea appeared in the palm of Suzy’s hand. It rolled down her hand and across her middle finger. Then the ball dropped off the end of her finger, as she looked at the man’s boot. The little ball shot across the room and exploded surrounding his boot. The man jerked his foot up and grabbed his boot. Hopping on one foot he was yelling, “Oh god it burns. The stabbing pain is unbelievable.”

Then he fell on his butt, as Suzy covered her mouth with her hand and snickered.

Emily set the bag on the counter and announced, “A half-pound coffee 6¢ for a total of 87¢.”

The man got to his feet limping, and put a silver dollar on the counter. Picking up the coin Emily questioned, “Are you all right?”

The man replied, “Just a pain in my foot. I think it’ll be all right.”

Emily gave him his change. Then he took his box and carried it out.

Suzy stepped to the counter, “He was a mean cuss. I need two peppermint sticks, one cotton candy, and one root beer.”

Emily replied, “Let me guess the root beer is for Tommy.”

Suzy replied, “You know me all too well Emily.”

Down at the Blacksmith shop Albert was pounding the little nut from the bolt. He was turning it into a bullet for his gun.

The days went by and Albert worked with Tommy every day until Friday. That was the morning when Edna came into town. Jim yelled at Albert, “The Witch I’ll get Tommy.”

Albert called out. “Truck on!” Then he got the truck from the old Feed and Seed. He parked the truck in the middle of the street about twenty feet from the Witch.

Jim blinked back with Tommy. Then Jim went to get Suzy and Rebecca. Albert put the little bolt in Tommy’s pocket, and had him stand in front of the winch. Jim blinked back with Suzy and Rebecca. They all stood in a line in front of the truck. Suzy’s Crow flew down the street and landed on the top of the truck. The team was complete, as Rebecca went and stood in front of the Horse Shoe.

Then a Turkey vulture flew in and landed on the Witch’s shoulder. She came to life and waved her hand. Then a Mountain Lion appeared next to the Witch. Suzy threw a ball of bright flashing colored light at the Witch, The Witch just held out the palm of her hand, and the fire ball exploded in the air raining down to the ground. Then the Witch pointed to Suzy, and the Lion leaped and ran at her. Jim saw this as Albert handed Tommy the winch cable.

Suzy levitated in the air as Jim jumped on the back of the Lion and blinked out. Jim and the Lion disappeared. Then the Witch pointed her finger at Albert. A lightning bolt shot from the Witch’s finger. Albert squatted to duck under it, but an invisible shield around the truck bounced it right back at the Witch. This kicked the Witch back a little.

Pulling the cable up over his shoulder Tommy leaned his body forward, and pulled with all he had to drag the cable. Then Albert commanded, “Clutch pedal in Winch P.T.O. low, Clutch out.” Albert pulled his gun and stood ready. Just as Tommy reached the Witch Albert shot his gun. The bullet flew in slow motion and struck the witch in the left leg. The witch fell on her left knee as she reached out to grab Tommy. There was a flash and the Witch cried out as she jerked her hand back.

Then there was a loud thumping sound in the air, and a giant Iron Bird came from the sky. Hanging on the side of the Iron Bird was an Indian with long black hair and a head band. He was holding a bow in his hand, and had a Tomahawk hanging on his side. The Iron Bird came down behind the Witch, and the Indian pulled an arrow from the quiver that hung over his shoulder. Then he leaped from the Iron Bird, and swung the arrow into the Witch’s eye socket. The Witch quivered as the Indian helped Tommy hook the cable around her neck.

Albert yelled, “Clutch pedal in Winch P.T.O. Reverse High, Clutch out.” With that command the cable pulled tight and dragged the Witch to the front of the truck.

The Indian walked alongside the Witch as she dragged on the ground. A black cloud in the shape of a hideous monster rose from the Witch. Then it was sucked into the ground as the Indian exclaimed, “Back to hell with you Demon.”

When the Witch’s head was against the truck bumper Albert yelled, “Clutch pedal in.”

The Indian looked at the truck as he nodded his head and affirmed, “Nice Horse.”

Albert replied, “Nice Bird.”

The Indian explained, “I need a Blacksmith to make me some arrow heads.”

Albert replied, “I’m Iron Man, and I can do that.”

The Indian informed, “I’m Wind Walker and over there in the bird is chidí naatʼaʼí, or Bird Man to you.”

Jim blinked back and Suzy took his arm as she informed. “We got reinforcements.”

Jim hypothesized, “I think it’s the guy from the story Malinda told us,”

Suzy replied, “How can that be Jim? He went to 1944, and that’s seventy years from now.”

The Indian explained, “Let me show you how it works.”

The Indian put his hand up in the air with his thumb up. Then he held out his hand and a ball of bright flashing colored light appeared. The Indian threw the ball in the air, and shot it with a Lightning bolt. Thousands of little flashing stars rained down on them as they appeared in front of a big barn.

The Indian smiled, “1982 is the year. This is the place we burn the bodies. I guess this would be our home base.”

The Indian ran his hand across his throat. Then the Iron Bird wound down. Albert commanded, “Truck off.”

Bird Man walked over and exclaimed, “Wow! What made you take on a spirit like that?”

Suzy replied, “That’s what we came here for. It was our mission to stop that Witch.”

Bird man questioned, “Do you even know you are stuck in this time passage, and can never go back?”

Jim spoke up, “We do now, but not when we came here. Where ever this is?”

Bird man informed, “Wind Walker and I’ve been here like fifty or maybe seventy years. It’s hard to keep track of time when you’re jumping around in it and don’t age. You see we’re all in a time passage. It’s like a place between the living and the dead, and the gap between Heaven and Hell. This is the place where good and evil fight. Sometimes we wake up sitting in the bird in a different time and place. Then we have to try to figure out why we’re there.”

Wind Walker informed, “We have a crematorium in the barn. If you loosen the winch we can drag the body in there.”

Albert commanded, “Truck on clutch pedal in Winch P.T.O. low. Clutch pedal in truck off.”

The Indian undid the cable, and took her leg and dragged her to the barn. Suzy was holding Tommy’s hand as he looked wide eyed.

Bird man insisted, “You know this place, so you can blink back here anytime you want. Just think of this place and 1982. Now I think you need to get the boy back to his time.”

With that Albert commanded, “Truck on.”

Then Suzy made a ball of bright flashing colored light, and threw it in the air. Then shot it with a Lightning bolt. In a flash they were back in the street at Dention. Rebecca came to Albert and exclaimed, “That was the most amazing thing I ever saw.”

Albert replied, “To bad you can’t put that in the paper.”

Rebecca divulged, “Don’t need to. I’m writing a Dime novel. I’ll call it The Witch Hunters.”

Jim gave Tommy a gold coin for helping and blinked him home. Jim put him back in his place and took the little bolt. Back at the truck they all disappeared and the town came to life.

The next thing they knew they were sitting in the truck. The truck was parked in front of an old Victorian house. On a tree lined street. They all looked at each other, and the nineteen seventies cars parked on the road. Jim blurted, “Times not stopped, and the trucks not running. Guess we don’t need that yet.”

Albert replied, “Just give me the word and I’ll stop time.”

Suzy demanded, “Well let’s go. Our job must be in that house.”

They walked to the front door and knocked. A man in his twenties waring a ball cap opened the door. He announced, “The Priest is still in there with her. He’s been in there over twenty hours, and I fear he can’t last much longer.”

Suzy insisted, “We’re going in. Take us to him.”

Guiding them up the hall the man insisted, “I don’t think that’s safe.”

Stopping at a door he announced, “In there.”

Suzy flung open the door and saw the Priest sprinkling Holy Water on the woman tied to the bed as he chanted scripture. She made an energy ball and slammed it into her chest and demanded, “I command you back into the ground Demon.”

When nothing happened Suzy yelled, “It’s just pure evil possessing the body. The Soul is gone. I’m untying her.”

As soon as Suzy loosened one hand the woman pushed her hand into Suzy’s chest. Bright light shot from the opening in her chest and filled the room. Jim grabbed the Priest and Albert’s arm. Then he blinked them to the sidewalk. In the room a million little stars replaced the light as Suzy untied the other hand then her feet. She took her foot and dragged her from the house kicking and screaming.

Seeing Suzy dragging the Demon across the porch Albert called out, “Truck on, Clutch pedal in Winch P.T.O. low, Clutch out.” Albert pulled out the cable as Suzy drug the Demon to the truck.

Slipping the cable over the Demon’s head Albert yelled, “Clutch pedal in Winch P.T.O. Reverse High, Clutch out.”

The Demon was hung tight to the bumper. Then Suzy threw a ball of bright flashing colored light in the air, and shot it with a lightning bolt. Thousands of little flashing stars rained down on them as Jim blinked them out. The Priest stood on the sidewalk wondering where they went.

Back in 1874 Tommy ran up to his dad yelling, “You won’t believe it dad. We killed the Witch with James’s Iron Horse. I had to pull this real heavy rope. Then an Indian flew in on a giant Iron Bird, and stabbed an arrow in the Witches eye. The Indian help me put the rope around the Witch’s neck, and the Sheriff killed the witch. Jim gave me this gold quarter for helping kill the Witch.

Jesse Laughed, “Boy that there is a five dollar gold peace and you’ve got the wildest imagination that any little boy ever had. If you can’t farm you’ll surely make it writing dime novels.

Tommy replied, “Nope I’m going to be a Sheriff and kill Witches.”

The End

Next Book
Demon Hunters​

The Journey
of
Love

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