Fate

ONE

Josiah paused from his long hike to reposition his backpack. During the almost two hours that he had been travelling through the woods his backpack seemed to increase it's weight. Josiah realized this to be a figment of his imagination, but the effect on his aching back remained the same.

He reached into his pants pocket, fishing for a rag to sop up some of the sweat that poured from his brow. Finding the handkerchief, he ran it across his sun burnt face while he surrveyed his surroundings.

The mid-summer sun blazed like an orb in a perfectly blue sky. A soft warm breeze danced through the trees making their leaves seem to whisper secrets in a language all their own. Josiah decided that though he was looking forward to arriving at his old friend Jacques cabin, he would take a few moments to drink up both the scenery and some much needed water.

A near-by rock beckoned to his weary bones. Josiah took up it's offer, easing his weight down on the unyielding but welcome surface. He reached over his shoulder and removed his backpack. Opening it, Josiah felt through it's contents until his large hand found his canteen. Wiping his sweaty palms on his pants, for better grip, he unscrewed the cap and raised the canteen to his parched lips.

He guzzled the refreshing water greedily, savoring the cooling effect as it flowed down his throat. After he had drank his fill Josiah replaced the cap of the canteen and with his shirt sleeve he mopped up the water that had missed it's target and run down his chin.

It was certainly God's country out here in the wilderness, Josiah thought to himself. A yellow billed magpie decended and perched itself on a near by tree limb. Josiah watched with amusement as the little scavenger's eyes darted along the terrain for any small morsel left behind from a previous kill.

A chuckle escaped Josiah's throat. It never ceased to amaze him how thourough God had been in creating the Earth's creatures. Each with it's own specific purpose, including janitorial duties. It was his own purpose in the great scheme of things that had brought Josiah to his dear friend Jacques Beaujeax in the first place.

It was nearly three years ago that Josiah had made the life changing decision to study spiritualism with a Cherokee holy man. It had been two of the hardest yet rewarding years of his life. There had been many test of his faith and character during his studies, but none as hard as his final test in his spiritual quest.

At the end of his two years it was required of Josiah to go forth into the wilderness and find spiritual clarity. For a period of fourteen sun rises and sun sets, armed only with a simple hunting knife and the knowledge of Cherokee ways, Josiah was to become one with nature.

The ritual proved both grueling and humbling. Mother Earth is a capricious spirit, as Josiah soon found out. If you were respectful of her and the life she granted you she would nurture you. If you displayed arrogance in the face of her power she would break you, and return you to the earth from which you came.

Though he thought he was prepared for the test, nature was not inclined to agree. Four days into the ordeal a most horrible storm front set in. The heavens opened up, unleashing a torential down pour that soaked Josiah to the bone and made starting a fire impossible. Josiah had made an attempt to build a lean-to for shelter from the elements, but gail force winds swept away all efforts.

For three days Josiah huddled, shivering, under a large redwood tree. His only food was some berries he had plucked from a near by bush. Any game that he might have hunted were all nestled in their dens, waiting out the strom as well.

Josiah began to fear he was not only going to fail this test, but possibly die in the attempt. On the night of his eighth day, overtaken by exhustion, Josiah closed his eyes and curled into a tight ball at the base of the tree. His last thought was a prayer.

"Allo! Allo, missieur!"

Josiah felt himself being shaken awake and yelled at in some foriegn language. He slowly came out of his slumber and propped himself up on one arm to face his visitor. The man that stood over him looked like the quintessetinal trapper. He wore a long buckskin coat with trousers to match. His face, what was not covered by his thick, greying beard, was weathered to the point of resembling leather. Yet, his brown eyes showed kindness and what seemed like concern for the lost soul he had discovered.

Josiah, weakened considerably, sat up slowly and spoke to the man. "Hello. My name is Josiah Sanchez. Could you help me get outta here?"

The man gave Josiah a puzzled look, indicating that he had not understood a word Josiah had just said. The man then, with a regretful tone, replied, "Missieur, Je ne parle pas anglaise."(sir, I do not speak english).

Great, Josiah thought. His prayer had been answered, but by a man who could not understand his situation. Josiah supressed a chuckle at the irony of it all.

Josiah pondered his situation for a breif moment, then decided he was not going to let a laguage barrier keep him from his emmancipation. He looked the man straight in the eyes and withhis right hand motioned to himself. "Josiah." He said slowly, then pointed to the man, hoping he would understand that he was asking for his name.

The man was a quick study, and gave Josiah an understanding smile and nodded his head. He then mimiced Josiah's motion on himself and said, "Jeacques."

To this Josiah nodded to indicate understanding. Well, he thought to himself, now that the intoductions are done, how do I make him understand that I need to get out of here? Again, he pondered the idea. Hand signals had seemed to be effective up to this point. Josiah decided, when in a sticky situation, go with what you know.

Once more he looked the man straight in the eyes. Josiah motioned to himself, then signaled away from his present position as he said, "I need to get out of here." He knew the man had no use for his words, but old habits died hard.

A perplexed expression came over the man's features. Josiah began to fear that he would never get his point across. Yet, after a moment, a light seemed to go off in the man's eyes.

"Ah! Oui, oui. Tu vas."(Ah, yes yes. You go.) The man said as he mirrored Josiah's earlier actions. With that he bent over to help Josiah to his feet. He was not an overly large man, but his size betrayed the solidness of his structure.With one motion Josiahwas on his feet and ready to be lead wherever the kind man was willing to take him. As long as it was the hell away from here, Josiah thought, it would resemble Heaven.

Actually, where the two men ended up was not far off. Jacques had taken Josiah to his cabin, nestled in a clearing not more than two miles from where he had found Josiah. There he had allowed Josiah to take a warm bath to remove the chill from his aching bones and supplied him with dry clothes.

Jacques then motioned for Josiah to take a place near the raging fireplace. As he did a young lady, maybe seventeen or so, cautiously approached him, bearing a steaming bowl of beef stew. She thrust it towards Josiah, avoiding all eye contact.

When Josiah accepted it he gave her a huge grin and said, "Thank you little one."

The girl stood frozen, then looked anxiously at her father, as if for direction.

Jacques smiled at his daughter and said,"Cheyenne, parle beinvenue."(say your welcome.) The thought of having to speak to this strange man must have overwhelmed her because she spun on her heels and ran to a back room.

Josiah was brought back to the present day by a horrible squawking sound. He gazed in the direction of the noise to see that a second magpie had joined the first, and they were now involved in a tug of war over some scraps.

Josiah shook his head in amusement, and gathered up his belongings. He felt rested enough to continue his journey, and besides, he didn't want Jacques and Cheyenne to start worrying about him. Over the last year Josiah had become very close to Jacques and little Cheyenne. "Little." Josiah spoke out loud and chuckled. Cheyenne was not exactly a little girl. She was a young woman now, nearly nineteen. Her shyness with him, thankfully, had subsided over the last year.

The language barrier had been removed over the year, as well. Jacques had taught Josiah French and Cheyenne taught him her late mother's native tongue Cheyenne. Josiah in return, taught them some of his English, but all prferred the mixed French/Cheyenne dialect that they called their own. God, Josiah thought, it will be so good to see then again. With that slung his backpack over his shoulder and headed in the direction of Jacques cabin.

"Hurry with that stew Cheyenne." Jacques lightly scolded his daughter in their native tongue. "Josiah will soon be here, and he will be hungry from his journey."

"It's coming!" She answered, stiring the large kettle of beef stew. She smiled to herself and whispered, "I want it to be just right." Cheyenne had been anticipating Josiah's visit for nearly two weeks now. As the day of his arrival grew closer the butterflies in her stomache increased their fluttering. She was perplexed by this reaction to her father's friend's arrival. Afterall, Josiah had been visiting them for nearly a year now. Yet each time he arrived her heart thumped harder in her chest, and each time he left it ached for a longer period of time.

Cheyenne shook her head, as if to dislodge the thought. How foolish, she thought, to think of a family friend in such a manner. Cheyenne decided to chock it up to merely missing someone she had grown fond of. Afterall, her father too, looked foreward to Josiah's visits. Since she had never really had any close friends to call her own, Cheyenne had nothing to compare her feelings toward Josiah to. She only knew that the times she spent with Josiah were some of her happiest. Cheyenne laddled out a small portion of the stew to test. She tasted the steaming concoction. "Needs more onion." She murmered. "Josiah likes lots of onion."

A loud rapping at the door of the cabbin jolted Cheyenne from her thoughts. Jacques made his way to the door and flung it open with exuberence."Josiah! Welcome!" In true French tradition Jacques embraced his friend. "Come. You must be starving."

Jacques released his hearty embrace and motioned for Josiah to sit at the table.

Josiah gave his friend a warm smile. "Thank you Jacques, food would be great right about now." He replied, rubbing his stomach to indicate his hunger. As Josiah headed towards the large table centered in the cabin a motion by the fireplace caught his attention. He looked over and saw Cheyenne watching him as she stirred a large pot.

His grin widened and placing his backpack on the table, he rushed over to where she stood. "Cheyenne! How wonderful to see you again!" Josiah spread his muscular arms, ready to hug the girl.

Cheyenne matched his smile and set down her ladle in order to accept his embrace. "I am good, how was your journey?" She asked, returning his hug.

"Too long!" He replied. "I could not wait to see my Anni." Reffering to her by the pet name Josiah had given Cheyenne on one of his very first visits.

The combination of Josiah's words and his arms around her caused the butterflies in her stomach to flutter at a furious pace. Her feelings overwhelming her, Cheyenne pulled away. She picked up the ladle once again, and focused on the stew, hoping Josiah had not noticed her akwardness.

Josiah was oblivious to Cheyenne's current emotional termoil. He stepped up beside her and putting his arm around her shoulders, inhaled the aroma of the stew and remarked, "Sure smells good Anni."

"Thank you Josiah." Cheyenne mumbled, keeping her eyes focused on the rotating laddle. All her scences were in overload as the warmth from Josiah's arm seemed to sear her down to her very being. The longer they stood in this manner, the more aware Cheyenne was of the sensation, until she could feel the warmth spread upwards to her cheeks. Just when she thought she could no longer bear the exquist agony her father broke the spell.

"Come, Josiah. Sit and rest." Jacques called to his friend, motioning to the seat at the table next to the one he had taken. He then turned his attention to his daughter. "Cheyenne, stop stirring that stew and serve it. Josiah will die of hunger soon." His voice was stern but he snuck Josiah a wink to indicate his bark held no bite.

Taking his place at the table Josiah asked Jacques, "So, how is the trapping business been this season?" While waiting for his reply Josiah took the opportunity to open his backpack and retrieve the gifts he had brought for his friends.

Jacques watched as Josiah rummaged through his bag and answered simply, " The lord and the land have been good to me." He was an accoplished trapper of many years, but Jacques was not a vain man.

Finding what he was after, Josiah produced two items from his bag. "Good to hear, my friend."

A steaming bowl of stew and a mug of ale were placed in front of Josiah. He looked up at Cheyenne and thanked her. She nodded, smiled, and went to get the same for her father.

Picking up one of the items he handed it to Jacques. "Here, this is for you." The gift was a new hunting knife, which Josiah knew Jacques was in need of. Picking up one of the items he handed it to Jacques. "Here, this is for you." The gift was a new hunting knife, which Josiah knew Jacques was in need of.

Jacques gave his friend a mock scowl, as he removed his elbows from the table to allow Cheyenne to set down his lunch. "Now Josiah, you know you don't got to bring us things when you come. Just yourself is enough, right Cheyenne?" He asked, inlisting Cheyenne to convince Josiah.

With a shy smile she looked at Josiah and replied, "Yes, your visits are gift enough." Cheyenne then averted her eyes, fearing they would betray the depth of her words.

"Well, thank you both." Josiah said as he placed the knife in front of Jacques, indicating he would not let the gift be refused. "I know I don't HAVE to bring gifts, but I like to. So take 'em before you hurt my feelings." With this he grinned and gave Cheyenne a mischievious wink. Josiah picked up an object wrapped in cloth and handed it to Cheyenne. "And this, my dear, is for you."

Shocked by the offering, Cheyenne paused for a moment, but curiousity over took her. She held out her hands, allowing Josiah to place the gift in them. Flashing Josiah a huge grin she carefully unwrapped the present. Cheyenne was not accustom to recieveing gifts. Her father and her lived a simple life, living off the land, and pruchasing only items of nessesity.

As the cloth fell away a most beautiful music box was revealed. Made of red wood and bearing intricate carving on both the lid and front, it was the most beautiful thing Cheyenne had ever seen. On closer inspection she saw that the design on the top of the box was that of an Indian maiden. Cheyenne slowly ran her thumb over the image as she searched for the words to tell Josiah how much she loved the gift.

Finally, nerver being one for fancy talk, Cheyenne simply looked into Josiah's eyes and whispered, "Thank you. It's beautiful."

The look on her face was thanks enough for Josiah. He could tell she was very pleased with the little music box, as he hoped she would be. Noticing Cheyenne's thumb tracing the picture on the lid, Josiah remarked, "I found it in a little shop while passing through a small village just South of here. When I saw the carving of the maiden on the top it reminded me of you, so I just couldn't resist."

Cheyenne's eyes darted back to the box. Though the image was small, the detail was extrordinary. It reminded her of a portrait she had once seen of a beautiful Indian princess. The flutter in her stomach returned. She wondered, was this how Josiah saw me? He had said it reminded him of her, but to what extent? Was it merely that the carving was of and Indian woman, or did Josiah think she, too, was beautiful.

Jacques interupted her thoughts by placing his rough hand on her arm and saying, "Cheyenne, are you going to answer me or just gawk at the box all day?"

She tore her gaze away from the image and with a puzzled expression asked, "I'm sorry father, did you say something?"

Rolling his eyes and letting an exasperated sigh escape his lips Jacques replied, "I asked you if you were going to just stand there or get some food and join us."

"Oh! Yes, father, I will eat with you." Cheyenne quickly rewrapped the music box and went to place it safely in her room. Once there, she opened a small chest containing her clothing and placed the box there out of harms way. She desperately hoped Josiah had not thought her foolish for allowing her mind to wander like that. A warm flush colored her cheeks as she considered what Josiah would think if only he could have read her thoughts at that moment. Well, as far as she knew mind reading was not among Josiah's many talents. Something Cheyenne was very grateful for.

Returning to the main room, Cheyenne dished herself some of the hearty stew and took her place at the table.

"Anni, this stew is the best I've ever tasted." Josiah said, loading his spoon and taking another mouthful.

"Thank you." Cheyenne answered, once agian unable to meet his gaze but warmed by his compliment.

"Yes, daughter, very good." Jacques then directed his words to Josiah. "She is a good cook. Just like her mother was." These last words held an echo of sadness. Jacques rarely spoke of his late wife. The mention of her sent a hush over the table and all three continued their meal in silence.

Continueing to eat his stew, Jacques mind flashed back to nearly twenty years ago. He had always been a trapper, and as such, became very close to many of the Indian tribes in his area. In one Cheyenne tribe Jacques became good friends with it's chief, Strong Wolf. Strong Wolf treated Jacques as one of his own, always providing him with food and shelter during his visits. He also taught Jacques many of the hunting techniques that had served Jacques so well all these years.

Jacques always enjoyed his visits with Strong Wolf, but sometimes felt guilty about his slightly alterior motives. The chief was not the only person he looked forward to spending time with. Strong Wolf had a daughter, Flying Raven, who's beauty enraptured Jacques the moment he had layed eyes on her. Raven, which Jacques had called her, had the most beautiful golden brown eyes and ebony black hair that fell just below her waist.

Jacques found himself searching her out during his visits, finding any excuse to speak with her. It was not long before Strong Wolf senced Jacques attraction towards his daughter and confronted him on the issue.

Not ever wanting to lie to his friend Jacques admitted his feelings for Raven and begged Strong Wolf for her hand in marriage. Under normal cercumstances Strong Wolf would never have given his beloved daughter to white man, but Jacques was not your normal white man. He had always respected the Cheyenne ways and had always been a good friend. After considering Jacques request he told his friend that he would ask Raven her wishes. If she, too, felt the same about Jacques then he would give his blessing.

Raven had also fallen in love and asked her father to let her marry the man who put fire in her heart. So it was done. Jacques and Raven were wed in a traditional Cheyenne ceremony and Jacques built her a cabin not far from her people's tribe.

There they started a life together, both filled with the happiness that can only come from true, undying love. Not long after they were wed Raven made Jacques heart swell with joy when she told him she was with child.

Chief Strong Wolf was overjoyed with the news that his daughter would give him a grandchild. He invited Raven and Jacques to come back to the tribe when Raven was ready to deliver, and let the tribes women aid Raven in the birthing. They agreed, both anxiously awaiting the blessed event.

Jacques doted on his wife all throughout her pregnancy, no request was too great. Whether it was to rub her aching back or even help with some of the chores when she grew too tired, he did it all gladly. Jacques had always dreamed of having a son. Someone he could pass on his knowledge to and carry on the family name.

As promised, when her time grew near Jacques readied a small wagon he had purchased, and took his Raven back home for the birth. Three days after their arrival, in the middle of the night, Raven woke Jacques to tell him the time had come.

Jacques immediatly dressed and went to fetch the tribe midwife. Excitment and pride pulsed through Jacques vains, but these emotions were to be replaced with much darker ones.

The birth was a difficult one. The midwife tried everything she knew but Raven was not destined mother the child she and Jacques created. After many hours of intense labour, Raven gave birth to a baby girl. The midwife cleansed the child and handed her to Raven. Knowing that she close to her death, she in turn handed the swaddled infant to Jacques and whispered in a hoarse voice, "Love her Jacques. As long as she lives we are never truly apart. Promise me this."

As he ackwardly craddled his daughter, his eyes filled with tears and he whispered back," I promise."

Knowing that her daughter would be safe with the man she loved, Raven gave Jacques one last smile, then released her spirit.

Overtaken with grief, Jacques let a sob rip from his lips as he bent over to kiss his beloved one last time. His first thoughts were to join his dear Raven in the afterlife, not being able to imagine life without the woman who had brought such joy to his life.

Yet, as these thoughts sparked in his mind, his newborn daughter squirmed in his arms and began to cry. Jacques reluctantly shifted his gaze from his wife's body to the baby in his arms. For the first time he looked into the eyes of his child, mirror images of Raven's. Jacques was immediatly reminded of his last words to his dying wife. Though he had no idea as to how he would care for this child, a daughter no less, he could not break his promise to Raven. At this moment, Cheif Strong Wolf entered the tipi and knelt beside his beloved daughter. As a single tear rolled down his bronze cheek he whispered the words "Goodbye my beautiful one" in their native toungue, then kissed her forehead.

Jacques was suddenly filled with the guilt that he was the cause of Raven's death. Tears spilling forth, he could not meet Strong Wolf's gaze. "I am to blame. If it were not for me......"

"No, Jacques." Strong Wolf interupted, leaving Raven's empty shell and squwatting next to Jacques and his new grandchild. "You cannot blame yourself. You are not the giver of life...so, in turn, you cannot take it away." The cheif shifted his gaze to the child Raven had fought so hard to bring into the world. "Our people believe that life is a circle. Some circles, like Flying Raven's, take less time to connect. It is our duty to make sure our loved one's circles experience much joy." He then stroked his grand daughters tiny cheek with his finger and continued, "You gave my daughter much happiness.....and now you must do the same for your child."

Jacques let the wise man's words sink in, then slowly nodded his head. "I will, my friend. I promised Raven, just before she died, that I would love this child and care for her." His eyes once again falling on his daughter, he felt his heart warm slightly. He was not sure what kind of father he would make without Raven to guide him. How could his heart, so freshly wounded by loss, give love once agian? Yet, Jacques knew he must find a way....for Raven.

So it was, that after spending a short time with the knowledgeable tribe's women that Jacques returned to his home with his daughter. He had yet to choose a name for the child, still too grief stricken to attempt anything but neccesary tasks.

A woman from the village vistied often, assisting Jacques in his new role as a father. When she asked if he had choosen a name for the child yet Jacques had replied, "No.....I have just been calling her my little Cheyenne. I cannot think of a name that suits her." Knowing that the Cheyenne people carefully chose their children's names to reflect who they were, Jacques had shied away from doing so.

The woman smiled at Jacques, watching as he fed the child the goat's milk that she had brought for him. "I think you just did."

Jacques gave the woman a puzzled expression. "Did what? Name her?"

"Yes." She replied.

Staring intently at his child he pondered what the woman had said. "Hmm.......Cheyenne......yes, that could be her name, Cheyenne," Having given his daughter a proper name gave Jacques an unexpected sence of pride and joy.

As the years flew by Jacques found that his heart could love again. Although a day never went by that he did not miss his beatiful Raven, he needed only to look at Cheyenne and the aching would subside. She posessed many of Raven's characteristcs, such as her beauty, and loving nature. Those, coupled with the skills Jacque taught her, made Cheyenne grow into a perfect blending of the two people who had once loved each other so much.

TWO

His mind returning to his present surroundings, Jacques' gaze fell on Cheyenne. She had finnished her meal, and was begining to clear the table. Though her birth had always brought forth some very painful memories for him, Jacques could not fathom what his life would be without her.

As he silently watched Cheyenne ready water to boil in order to wash their dishes a frown scarred his forehead. Would she ever know love as he did with her mother? Cheyenne was nearing the age where most young women's minds turned to thoughts of marriage and children. Yet, she seemed to take no interest in such feminine acts, preferring to aid in the trap lines and accompay Jacqes to town only with the intent of selling furs.

On their trips into town Cheyenne seemed oblivious to the stolen glances, or for that matter, the outright leers, delt out by passing men. Jacques had not once witnessed his daughter show interest in a gentleman she came into contact with.

No, Jacques admitted to himself, that was not entirely the truth. During Josiah's last few visits Jacques had noticed a slight change in Cheyenne demeanor. Her actions seemed infused with a nervous excitment that betrayed her usual behaviour. This, on it's own, Jaques could have dismissed. It was the way he had caught his daughter looking at Josiah that fueled his anxiouty. He had seen that loving gaze before. It was the same one Raven had exchanged with him so many years ago.

If he read Cheyenne's emotions correctly, then his heart ached for his daughter. For he worried that the love would never be returned in the same depth. Josiah cared dearly for Cheyenne, this Jacques was sure of, but was there passion in that love? Or was friendship the root of Josiah's feelings? All of Josiah's actions seemed to indicate the latter, Jacques mused. Yet, he had always heard that the greatest loves began with friendship. Either way, Jaques knew that his friend would always be there for Cheyenne, in one form or another.

Suddenly Jacques caught himself, realising he had sat in silence for many minutes, whithout so much as a word to his guest. Focusing his attention back to Josiah he said, "Friend, will you be making the trapping rounds with me tomorow morning?"

"Now, Jaques." Josiah replied, "You know that is one of my favorite times when I visit. Wild horses couldn't keep me from it!"

Later on that afternoon, all three busied themselves with chores in an attemp to free up the evening for visiting. Jacques was doing mantinance on his traps, while Josiah had offered to split fire wood.

Cheyenne exited the log cabin, carrying a basket of washing, and proceeded to wash basin. As she made her way to the sunny spot she had chosen for a work area, her eyes fell on Josiah chopping wood.

She watched intently as he picked up another log, and placed it on the chopping block. Josiah placed the axe on the log, as if to mark his target. With one fliud motion, he swung the axe over his head, and brought it crashing down. The log was no match for the muscular man,with the axe dividing it like a hot knife through butter.

Cheyenne, impressed by Josiah's display of strength, allowed her eyes to linger on him as she arrived at the washboard and basin. From where she would be working Cheyenne was afforded a perfect view of Josiah as he laboured over the logs. Cheyenne told herself she had chosen this particular spot because of it's full exposure to the glorious mid-afternoon sun. Yet, a little voice deep in the recesses or her mind callenged this reasoning.

"Rediculous." She murmered to herself. I always choose a spot in the sun, she thought to herself, it keeps the wash water from getting cold so quickly. She argued with the little voice saying to herself, "I cannot help it if Josiah chose that spot to work." The nagging voice shot back that was the place where the wood was always chopped, and she knew that. Cheyenne told the voice to shut up and began the washing.

She placed the washboard in the hot water and grabbed the first article of clothing to be cleaned. Cheyenne had only started to run the lye bar over the chosen shirt when her eyes involentarily wandered back to where Josiah stood. What she saw nearly made her drop the bar of soap.

Josiah, his clothing soaked from sweat, began to remove his shirt to cool himself. After unfastening the last button, he let the shirt slip off his broad shoulders, catching it just before it hit the ground. Josiah ran the shirt over his neck, removing some of the perspiration.Then, placing the article of clothing on top of a nearby wood pile, he returned to his task.

Cheyenne's jaw hung slack. Her eyes unable to detach themselves from the vision of masculinity that was displayed before her.Once again, Josiah started the process of splitting a log. Though, this time, the ritual mesmerized Cheyenne.

As Josiah aligned his axe to the wood Cheyenne marveled at his well sculpted torso. A thin layer of perspiration caused his skin to glisten, emphasizing his muscle tone. Her eyes traced the bulge of his bicepts as he centered the axe. Cheyenne drank in the sight of him, anxiously awaiting his next move.

Josiah raised the axe above his head with the same fluidity, but this time the action seemed to happen in slow motion for Cheyenne. Every flexed muscle seemed to call out to her and she found herself leaning forward as if to narrow the gap between the two. When Josiah finally brought the axe crashing down Cheyenne let out an involuntary moan. The force behind the blow caused Cheyenne's mind to wonder what it would feel like to be held in those powerful arms, to feel Josiah's warm flesh pressed against her's. As these delicious thoughts played in her mind Cheyenne continued to slowly lean foreward. The result was a loss of balance. Cheyenne's right hand slipped from the top of the washboard, grating itself down the harsh surface.

The intense pain caused a scream to escape from her throat. Cheyenne's eyes darted to her hand, searing pain shooting through her hand. The once clear water was now stained a deep crimson. The wounded hand was still submerged in the wash water, as Cheyenne was almost afraid to see the damage that was done. She was just getting up the courage to have a peek when she heard thundering foot steps coming towards her.

Josiah had been about to chop another log in two when he heard a scream echo from his left. Spinning to the direction of it's origin, Josiah saw Cheyenne hunched over a wash basin. Her face was racked with pain, causing a wave of concern to wash over him.

He threw down his axe and ran towards her. When he was just a few feet away Josiah's eye was caught by the unnatural color of the wash water. "My God Anni!" Josiah said, as he knelt down beside her. "What happened?"

Cheyenne removed her hand from the stained water as she replied, "I cut myself." Once the hand was visible it was apparent she had done much more damage than just cut it. Cheyenne's hand was shredded, starting from her fingers and carrying well past her wrist. Loose pieces of flesh hung from the wounds and the blood showed no sign of slowing it's flow.

Josiah's eyes widened in disbelief. He quickly pulled a handkerchif from his pants pocket, and took her mangled hand gently in his. "Oh Anni, how did you manage to hurt yourself so badly? What where you doing?" As he asked these questions he began to wrap the rag around her arm, as a make shift tourniqette.

Cheyenne fought back tears of both pain and embarrasment. She could not tell Josiah the truth about how the incident happened. What would he think of her? Quickly her mind searched for an alternate explination. "Um....I was just reaching for....another shirt from the basket. I guess I leaned too far.....and my hand slipped." The lie tasted sour in her mouth, but what choice did she have? The truth, she told herself, would have been worse.

"Well, my dear, you sure did a number on this hand." Josiah tied off the rag in an attempt to slow the blood flow. Cheyenne let out gasp of pain. "Sorry Anni, but it's nessesary. Come with me, I'm gonna take you to the house and see if I can't clean these wounds up." With his right hand he held Cheyenne wounded arm up, trying to keep the blood from seeping out. He wrapped his left arm around her small waist and lifted her to her feet, then led her to the cabin.

Once there, Josiah carefully lowered Cheyenne into the closest chair and said, "Now keep that arm up. It'll slow the blood flow. Stay still, and I will fetch some bandages. Where do you keep them?"

Cheyenne nodded her head in the direction of one of the shelves by the fireplace. "On the top shelf, left side." The throbbing in her arm began to increase. She stole another glance at her hand, shaking her head at the sight. You idiot, she thought to herself, how could you have been so clumsy? She could just hear her father's words now. He would not be as easy to convince with her fabricated explination. Cheyenne had been washing clothes with that same washboard since she was a small child, and had yet to incur so much as a sctatch.

Josiah returned with bandages in hand and pulled up a chair close to Cheyenne. He carefully pulled Cheyenne's arm close to him and gave it closer inspection. "It seems to be clean enough, what with being in the soapy water. How bad does it hurt?"

For the first time since he had come to her aid, Cheyenne met his gaze. There was genuine concern in his eyes, which touched her heart. "It hurts, but I'll be O.K." She gave him a weak smile, then continued, "I think it looks worse than it really is."

Josiah returned her smile. "I hope so Annie.......cause it looks pretty bad. I never knew washing clothes could be so hazardous. I have new found respect for it." He joked, hoping to take her mind off the pain as he began to wrap the hand.

Cheyenne let out a chuckle at Josiah's teasing remark. "Perhaps I should start wearing gloves when I do it......for protection." She quipped, hoping it would make Josiah laugh. She loved his laugh.

Cheyenne was rewarded with a hearty gawfaw. "Perhaps you should! Now hold still dear, while I finish this badage job."

Cheyenne obeyed, letting her eyes fall on the man before her. She immediatly noticed that, in his rush to get to her, Josiah had not put his shirt back on. From such a close proximity she could see the smoothness of his skin. How inviting it looked to her. She longed to reach out and run her good hand along it's surface. Oh, how she ached to reveal these new found emotions to him. In her fantasies, Cheyenne invisioned herself telling Josiah how she ached to be his woman, and he would, in turn, tell her how much he desired her as well.

"There you go. All done but the healing." Josiah said returned his eyes to Cheynne's. There was something in them he had not seen before. A certain sparkle and longing that seemed to hold his eyes locked to her's.

For a moment they sat just like that. Eyes locked, Cheyenne's delicate hand held in Josiah's strong one. There was an undenialbe change in the air, both wondering if the other was aware of it. Cheyenne senced that, possibly for the first time, Josiah was really seeing her....seeing her as not just a child but as the woman she had become. Not wanting the moment to pass, Cheyenne gathered her courage. How, she asked herself, was Josiah to know of her change of heart if she did not tell him?

Moistening her lips, she placed her left hand on Josiah's arm and whispered, "Josiah........" His name had no sooner left her lips when the door swung open and her father walked in.

THREE

At the sound of the door Cheyenne simultaneously yanked her hand from Josiah's and spun around. Her father had a puzzled expression on his face as his eyes darted back and forth between Cheyenne and Josiah. Deciding giving him her fabricated story now, no matter how unbelievable. Cheyenne believed it would, at the very least, take his mind off the scene he had just walked in on. "Father! Josiah was just bandaging my hand. I scrapped it on the washboard reaching for a shirt."

Cheyenne's rushed explanation and eagerness to distract him made Jacques even more suspicious of the scene he had walked in on. There could be no denying that he had interrupted what was, or was about to become, an intimate moment between his daughter and his best friend. The way they had been looking into each other's eyes spoke volumes on the truth....even if his daughter's words did not.

Jacques emotions fought against one another. The protective side of him wanted no man to lay his hands on his daughter, no matter how well he knew and respected him. Yet, had he not wanted Cheyenne to find a good man and settle down? All this was too much to consider at the moment, especially standing in front of these two people. Jacques decided to play ignorant until he had better control of his emotions. "Your hand? How bad is it?"

"Oh......not that bad." Josiah piped in, also thankful for the distraction. "It's torn up pretty good, but with time it'll be good as new."

"That is good to hear....about it not being so bad......can you still use it Cheyenne?"

Wanting to please her father she immediately replied, "Oh yes...I'm sure it's just......"

"Now hold on Anni." Josiah interrupted. "It could have been worse, true, but it's still pretty bad. I think it should be rested for at least a day. You start using it too much and you're just gonna keep reopening those wounds."

Jacques nodded his head and added, "Josiah is probably right, it should be rested. In fact, looking at you, you should probably rest along with it."

"Oh, no, father I am fine. I don't need to rest." Cheyenne knew Josiah was leaving tomorrow afternoon and wanted to spend as much time in his presence as possible before he left.

Josiah gave Cheyenne a once over. She did look rather pale, he thought. Probably due to the loss of blood. He was about to add his voice to Jacques suggestion when Cheyenne abruptly stood up from her chair.

Rising quickly, Cheyenne intended to busy herself in order to prove she did not need to lie down, but her body was not up to the task. Once she had taken her first step her head began to swim, her legs feeling as if they were rubber. Before she could steady herself she lost her balance and began to fall forward.

Josiah noticed her unsteadiness as soon as she rose and was ready when she began to lose her balance. As she fell toward him Josiah extended his muscular arms and with one quick motion broke her fall and swept her up. As he cradled her in his arms he chastised her. "Your father has told you, I have told you, and now your body's telling you! So quit being so stubborn...you need to rest and that's what you're gonna do." With that he headed for her room to put her to bed.

Cheyenne flushed with embarrassment at having to be carried by Josiah to her room, and in front of her father no less. Yet, even in her flustered state, Cheyenne was acutely aware of Josiah's strong arms holding her against his bare chest. Under different circumstances this would have been her fantasy come to life.

Cheyenne kept her emotions barely in check as not to become completely transparent to both her father and Josiah. As Josiah reached her bed he carefully lowered her on to it, making sure her hand was not jostled in the process.

"There now Anni, you rest up and I will see you in the morning OK?" Josiah started to reach out to smooth her hair, but quickly pulled his hand back. The memory of the moment they had just shared was still fresh in his mind. Josiah was not entirely sure what had transpired during those few ethereal seconds, but something told him to hold back his affections....at least until he was certain of his own feelings.

Cheyenne, still feeling light headed, gave Josiah a weak smile and replied, "Yes.....I will see you in the morning....and thank you...." Her eyelids suddenly feeling unbearably heavy, Cheyenne's last vision was of Josiah standing above her, his beautiful blue eyes locked to her's. As sleep quickly claimed her Cheyenne carried the image with her into the sweet slumber.

As Cheyenne drifted off Joisah lingered a moment, his eyes taking in her delicate features. It was as if he was seeing her for the first time. What met his gaze was a truly beautiful young woman, her face that of an angel's. A battle of emotions waged on as Josiah stood above this young woman. Like the proverbial devil and angel on his shoulder, Josiah sorted through this situation.

True, she was a lovely young woman, and a dear friend who he enjoyed spending time with, but could he allow himself to feel more for her? She was, after all, the young daughter of a close friend. Josiah would rather cut off his right hand than hurt Jacques or the relationship between father and daughter. A solution eluding him, Josiah turned and left Cheyenne room.

Jacques had taken a seat at the table, patiently awaiting Josiah's return. When he appeared from the doorway of Cheyenne's room Jacques knew Josiah was a man in turmoil, it was written all over his face. Jacques knew then that he must speak to his friend of this matter. "Josiah," Jacques said, pouring two glasses of ale from a pitcher that sat on the table. "come and share a drink with me....I believe we need to talk."

Josiah knew his friend was right. Best to air things before they turned bad. He took the seat opposite Jacques, and accepted the ale gladly. As he took a sip, Josiah tried to collect his thoughts into sensible words, a daunting task at best. Taking a deep breath Josiah started to speak. "Jacques..."

Jacques interrupted Josiah and began to speak. "I have told you the story of how I met Cheyenne's mother yes?"

Not seeing the relevance of this question, but not wanting to offend his friend Josiah simply replied, "Yes, you have."

Jacques nodded his head and continued, "When I first realized my true feelings for her I was confused...and scared."

With a puzzled expression Josiah asked, "Scared? Why Jacques?"

"I was scared to let her father know. Afraid he would be angry. Afraid I would lose his friendship."

Josiah nodded, knowing that feeling all too well as of late, but he said nothing.

Jacques took a sip of his ale. "But you see, Josiah, father's know when a man desires his daughter.....it is like a sixth sense I suppose. So, Raven's father asked me a simple question. He asked me if I loved his daughter." Jacques then looked Josiah straight in the eyes and said, "It is the same question that I am going to ask you right now. Josiah, do you love Cheyenne?"

For a moment Josiah could only stare at his mug of ale. How could he answer a question that he did not yet have the answer to? There was only one way, Josiah decided,...honestly. "Jacques.....I must be truthful with you. I am not sure of my feeling for Cheyenne. A part of me, a very newly discovered part, thinks I may indeed have those feelings for her. Yet,......" Josiah let out an exasperated sigh, "I cannot be certain how true these feelings are.....I'm sorry Jacques."

Jaques nodded his head slowly, then smiled, "You have nothing to be sorry for my friend. You were honest, that is all I can ask for. Perhaps I just asked you the question much earlier than Raven's father did. You need time to know your feelings."

Josiah, with obvious concern in his features, replied, "And if I find out that I do have these feelings.....that I do love her......what will you say?"

Again Jacques smiled. "I will say exactly what Chief Strong Wolf said to me those many years ago. If my daughter feels the same, then you have my blessing."

For the rest of the evening the two men let the subject rest. They ate the rest of the left over stew, and enjoyed each other's company in the same manner that they always had in the past.

It was about ten o'clock that evening when the two men said their goodnights. Jacques had readied a spare cot for Josiah to sleep in, near the fireplace for warmth. As Josiah stripped his clothes off he noticed a deep red stain on his left pant leg. It was blood...Cheyenne's blood. Josiah ran his fingers over the dried stain as his mind began to work.

The image of her beautiful face surfaced in his mind's eye, causing his emotions to stir. Could it be that he did love her and had not realized it until today? He knew she cared for him, as he did her, but something in her eyes told of much deeper feelings towards him. That revelation had not shocked Josiah half as much as how his own desires had surfaced at that moment. For those few glorious seconds, Josiah had become lost in her eyes. His body had ached to hold her, to kiss those soft, full lips.

Also, the way she had spoken his name, just before Jacques had interrupted them, the had been a ring of longing in her voice. One had to wonder what all would have been revealed had Jacques only walked in a few minutes later. Was Cheyenne waging her own emotional battle? Josiah knew that dwelling on what if's would not clarify the situation. He must concentrate on what he knew for certain. That his feelings towards Cheyenne may have grown into love and that she may well feel the same.

Josiah finished undressing, laying his clothes in a neat pile beside the bed. As he slipped under the covers, Josiah paused a moment to ask guidance from the one who had helped him through so many difficult times in the past. "God," He whispered, "I know you are a busy man....but I am in desperate need of some direction. I want to do what is right here, so if you could see your way to giving me some sort of sign....well......it would be much appreciated." Letting out an exhausted sigh, Josiah's head sank into the pillow and he let sleep take him.

While Josiah slept the most ethereal vision came to him. In his dream Cheyenne was slowly walking towards his bed, a delicate smile graced her lips. She stood watching him as he slept , her lips moving, but Josiah could not make out the words.

All at once, her lovely face grew closer. With undeniable love in her eyes, she placed the tenderest of kisses on his cheek. Then, as quickly as she had appeared, she was gone again. As he watched her leave Josiah smiled to himself and thought, I believe I have just received my sign.

Cheyenne had awakened from her sleep, not knowing exactly why, but her first thoughts were of Josiah. She knew he laid sleeping in the main room, only a wall separating him from herself. Suddenly she was overcome by a powerful need to see him, if only for a moment.

Not able to deny the urge, Cheyenne threw off her blankets and carefully made her way out to the main room of the cabin. She walked towards Josiah with the stealth of a cat, not wanting to wake him and be caught. As she made her way closer Josiah began to stir. Cheyenne froze in her spot, her breath coming in short pants. Her eyes adjusting more to the dark, Cheyenne could have sworn Josiah had a small smile on his face. No, she thought, her eyes must have been playing tricks.

Once she was sure that Josiah was not about to wake, Cheyenne took one careful step, followed by another. Now she stood only inches from the side of his bed. Her heart pondered with such force against her chest she thought surely it would alert Josiah to her presence. As she tried to steady her breathes, Cheyenne studied the features of the man she loved. She was sure of this now, that she loved him. It was the only explanation for the feelings he provoked in her.

Oh, how peaceful he looked, his face a mask of contentment......with a smile on his lips. Yes, her eyes had not deceived her, he was indeed smiling in his sleep. Cheyenne wondered what caused this. Was he dreaming, and if so about what......or more importantly, who. Cheyenne heard herself whisper, "Please be dreaming of the one who loves you Josiah. Please be dreaming of me." She knew she must return to her bed, but could not resist one last daring move.

Summoning all her courage, Cheyenne slowly bent down, and with the lightest touch, gently kissed Josiah's cheek. The warmth of his skin against her lips felt like a fire, spreading throughout her trembling body. Not daring to stay another second, she silently turned and crept back to her room.

Once in bed, Cheyenne slowly licked her lips, savoring the salty tastes left from Josiah's skin. One day, she thought to herself, Josiah will know what's in my heart. Cheyenne whispered to herself. "If only I had a way of knowing what was in his . . . if only I had a sign."

FOUR

Josiah awoke to the sound of the cabin floor creaking under someone's weight. As he opened his eyes, the outline of Jacques could be seen squatting in front of the fireplace. Watching Jacques stoke a newly lit fire, Josiah propped himself up on one arm and asked, "What time is it my friend?"

Never taking his eyes off the fire, Jacques chuckled and replied, "Time for you to get out of bed! It is nearly six o'clock and we have to get to those traps before the scavengers do."

"Mmm.......right." Shedding off the last layers of sleep, Josiah sat up and reached for his backpack. Opening it, he pulled out fresh clothing and began to dress. If Jacques was up, then Cheyenne would not be too far behind him. There had been more that enough awkward moment lately, without having her come out and see him not yet dressed.

"Will you be heading back this afternoon, Josiah?" Jacques inquired, setting a final log on the now roaring fire. While waiting for his reply Jacques retrieved the coffee pot from a shelf above mantle, and began to make the morning brew. Having readied the pot and hung it over the fire, Jacques noticed that he had still not been answered. He turned to face Josiah, and immediately received his answer as to why Josiah remained silent.

About to answer his friend, Josiah had looked up from placing his dirty clothes into his knapsack. As he did so, a movement from the far side of the cabin caught his eye, drawing his vision to it.

There, in the doorway of her room, stood Cheyenne. As she started to walk towards him the present was replaced with the image of his dream. The memory of it flashing before his eyes, Josiah was transfixed as the dream replayed in his mind.

The images of Cheyenne walking towards him, whispering inaudible words, and lastly, kissing his cheek danced vividly in his memory. Yes, he thought, I remember. I asked for a sign and last night she came to me......in a dream. Surely this was the omen he had prayed for, and if he read it right (which he was certain he did), it was encouragement to persue Cheyenne.

Cheyenne was oblivious to Josiah's unwavering stare. She was fully aware of his presence, but avoided eye contact for the moment. Cheyenne was still disturbed by her uncharacteristically bold actions of last night. True, she had only yesterday been about to bare her soul to Josiah. It was one thing to devulge her passion for him, but it was entirely another to go to him in his bed and risk exposure of this blatant act not only to Josiah, but to her father as well.

Jacques watched the moment unfold as one would seated in the audience of a play. It was painfully obvious that both longed to tell the other of their desire, but lacked the courage to do so. This could, however, have been due to the fact that his presence only exacerbated an already arduous task. Jacques made a mental note to arrange for Josiah and Cheyenne to have some time alone before Josiah headed back this afternoon. That was, if he did still intend to leave today. Again Jacques posed the question to Josiah. "Will you still be heading back today Josiah?"

This time the query broke through Josiah's reverie. Tearing his eyes from Cheyenne's form, he turned his attention to his friend. "Um....yes Jacques, I must return to the missionary today. We are a little short handed at the moment......I was lucky to get these two days off at all."

Jacques nodded his head and answered, "I understand. We are glad to have you for any length of time we can. Isn't that right Cheyenne?"

Daring to lock eyes with the object of her desire, Cheyenne met Josiah's returned gaze. "Yes...." She stated, her words carrying with them a passion that could not be contained. "Any time you spend here is a blessing."

The words hung thick in the air. Jacques knew that his daughter and Josiah desperately needed time alone to air their emotions. Jacques didn't believe in procrastination, so he decided to expedite the situation. "Cheyenne.....would you bring in the furs I hung to dry yesterday? They should be ready by now."

"Yes father." Was her reply, and she set off to do as she was asked.

No sooner had the door closed behind her did Jacques turn to Josiah and said, "I want you to stay here while I attend to the traps."

Confused by Jacques request Josiah asked, "Why Jacques? Have I done something?"

"It is what you haven't done that makes me ask this of you." Jacques slowly walked over to the bed that Josiah still sat on and continued. "You need to talk with her Josiah.......tell her how you feel."

Giving Jacques a worried look, Josiah shook his head. "I don't know about that. I don't want to rush things."

"Are you still unsure of your true feelings for her?"

Letting loose a drawn out sigh Josiah shrugged his shoulders and said, "I think so....I mean I cannot deny that something has changed between us......but I want to be absolutely sure before I voice it. I just don't want to ever hurt her Jacques...you know?"

Nodding Jacques placed a hand on Josiah's shoulder. "I know. I know that you would rather die that hurt Cheyenne. So, then, why not at least take this time and spend it alone with her......it may help to clarify things."

"You may be right." Josiah then gave Jacques a mischievous grin. "Are you certain you trust me alone with her still?"

"Josiah.....you are about the only man I would trust alone with her." Then with a glint in his eye he continued, "Besides, if you do not behave it gives me a good opportunity to try out my new hunting knife."

Cheyenne slowly made her way, by feel more than by sight, back to the cabin. The pile of wood in her arms obstructed her view but having done this so many times she knew the path by heart. When she arrived at the door Cheyenne gave it a hard kick with her foot to let her father know he should open the door.

As per normal, the door opened and she made her way inside. Cheyenne walked over to where the wood was to be stored and waited for her father to begin unloading her arms.

The top three logs were removed from her load, but the face that was revealed on the other side was not that of her father's.

"Oh! Josiah! I was thought you were my father."

"Um.....no......it's me. Your father left about five minutes ago Anni." Josiah continued to remove logs from Cheyenne grasp and place them on the pile by the fireplace. "Hope you're not too disappointed that it's me." He gave her a wink, but there was an undertone of seriousness in his words.

"No! I was only ....surprised is all." Cheyenne then realized what Josiah had said about her father's whereabouts. "Did you say my father was gone? Where did he go?"

"To check the traps. Same as every morning right?"

"Well.......yes, but were you not going with him." Cheyenne could feel her palms begin to sweat. Could it really be that her father had left her and Josiah alone together?

Josiah began to wonder if this was such a good idea after all. What if Cheyenne was uncomfortable with being alone with him for so long? He ran his hands through his thick hair and replied, "Yeah, well, I changed my mind. I thought you and I could spend some time together.....before I leave. Is that all right with you?"

Her heart leapt from her chest to her throat in a split second. Did her ear's deceive her? She took a moment to compose herself and then answered, "Yes! I would like that very much." She silently chastised herself for what she thought was sounding too eager. Cheyenne wondered if she appeared as transparent to Josiah as she felt.

Her fears were calmed when Josiah produced a huge grin and said, "Great! That's great Anni." Now that he knew she approved of this idea Josiah's mind began to work. He needed to think of something for them to do, other than stand here staring at each other. Suddenly it came to him. "What about a picnic?"

"What?" Cheyenne asked, startled by his outburst and not following his train of thought.

Feeling foolish for blurting it out, Josiah took a deep breath restarted his thought. "I was trying to think of something we could do and I thought a picnic would be nice." Finishing his sentence, Josiah waited eagerly for her reply.

Cheyenne felt as if she were in a dream. the thought of a private picnic with this man sent shivers of delight throughout her body. "I think that sounds like fun, Josiah. I will get some food for us now.....that is if you want to leave soon?."

Josiah gave Cheyenne an enthusiastic nod. "Sounds great! We could go for a little hike and then stop and have lunch. So, while you're packing the food I'll get the blanket and a canteen of water."

"..Yes...I ..will pack a basket now then." Cheyenne said, still not able to believe this was all happening. As she watched Josiah head to her father's room to get the supplies she reached down and pinched her arm. Ouch! Yup.....she was awake.

One by one Cheyenne placed the food she had gathered into the basket. At one point, while picturing herself alone with Josiah, her palms became so sweaty that she nearly dropped a jar of raspberry preserves. ‘Calm down!' She thought to herself. ‘If you are going to act like a fool you will never win his heart!'

Yes, that was what this was. A perfect opportunity to show Josiah that she was no longer a girl, but a woman. And not only a woman, but a woman who could be his woman and make him happy. Taking a deep breath to calm herself, she continued packing the lunch.

Having collected what they would need Josiah emerged from Jacques room. Cheyenne, immersed in her task, did not notice his return. Josiah stood, quietly, and took in the sight of her. She was magnificent in her beauty, her long dark brown hair cascading down to her slender waist. Josiah could not deny his physical attraction to her, but did he dare act upon these desires with a woman so many years his junior. Josiah played with this idea in his mind as he continued to watch Cheyenne.

It was not merely physical desires that attracted him to Cheyenne, he reasoned. He was also drawn to glorious spirit, and her caring heart. No, Josiah decided, there was much more to this heavenly creature before him that her outward appeal. Eager to begin the days activities Josiah let his presence be know.

Josiah cleared he throat and said, "Almost ready?"

Cheyenne, who had been deeply enveloped by her thoughts, jumped at the sound of his voice. She placed her hand over her heart, as if to calm it's racing and replied, "Josiah, you scared me!"

"Oh Anni!" Josiah chuckled, "I'm sorry..I didn't mean to. Are you O.K?"

Cheyenne let out a laugh of her own. "Yes, I am fine. I just did not hear you come out." Placing the lid on the basket she picked it up and said, "And yes, I am all done."

"Great, shall we go then?" He asked, slinging the knapsack he had packed over his shoulder.

Cheyenne gave Josiah a wide grin and a nod of her head. "Yes."

The two headed south, at Cheyenne's request. There was silence for the first few minutes of the journey, both pretending to be taking in the wooded scenery. The truth of the matter was that each was desperately trying to come up with the right thing to say to break the ever growing silence.

FIVE

Finally, not able to bear it another moment Josiah asked the only question that came to mind. "So, Anni, where would you like to have lunch? Is there a particular spot you had in mind?"

Cheyenne took only seconds before answering. "Yes, there is. It is only a few miles from here. Will make good spot to stop." Though her words did not portray it, her mind and heart were racing.

It was shortly after her first meeting with Josiah that Cheyenne had discovered the place she had just suggested. While on one of her many hikes she liked to take, she had come across a clearing nestled beside a clear blue stream. From the moment she laid eyes on the spot, Cheyenne knew that one day she wanted to bring someone special here....to share it with her.

As time went on she knew that Josiah was that someone. So many times throughout the last year, Cheyenne had visited this special place. Each time, as her visit came to an end, Cheyenne would say a silent prayer that the next time she came back it would be with Josiah. Her heart soared with the realization that her prayer had finally been answered.......that now it would be "their" place.

Josiah, anxious to keep the conversation flowing, spoke once again. "I imagine you must know these woods pretty well by now, having spent your whole life surrounded by them."

Cheyenne looked up at Josiah, a smile forming on her lips as she nodded and replied, "Yes. There is no place within five miles that I have not been to." The smile then faded, replaced by a frown. "But that is not a good thing anymore."

Puzzled by her words he asked, "Why Anni? Do you not like it here anymore?"

Cheyenne paused for a moment, trying to find the words to express her thoughts. "It is not that I do not like it here. It is just that I have seen it, and now I wish to see something different." Not sure that she was explaining herself clearly, Cheyenne's expression became a pleading one. "Do you know what I mean?"

"I think so. It seems to me that you have a bit of the wanderlust there Anni."

"The what?" Cheyenne asked in a shocked tone. She had no idea what the word meant exactly, but the fact that it contained the word ‘lust' had not slipped past her. She knew very well what that word meant and was nervous that it was contained in something Josiah claimed she had.

Josiah, amused by her response, chuckled and informed her. "It means you have a desire to travel......you know....to see different places."

"OH!" Cheyenne exclaimed, relief flooding over her. "Yes, that must be what I have......the......wanderlust." She spoke the word slowly, making sure she pronounced it correctly.

His demeanor turning slightly more serious Josiah inquired further. "Is that what you really want Anni? To travel and see knew places?" Josiah unconsciously held his breath while waiting for her response. How she answered this question would have a great influence on his decision to persue her or not. Josiah's work as a preacher required him to go where he was needed, often pulling up stakes and moving on with little notice.

Cheyenne seemed to give much thought to her answer before she voiced it. When she finally did there was a look of resolution on her face. "That is what I want. I would miss my father of course, but I do not wish to spend my whole life in one place. I want to see more of what is out there.....like you do, Josiah."

It was Josiah's turn to feel relieved. Her answer was exactly what he found himself hoping she would say. The sudden thought of having someone to share in his travels and experiences brought a surprising wave of joy. It was a concept he found he could easily get accustom to. Giving Cheyenne a loving glance, he said, "Well, then we may just have to do something about that."

Again, Cheyenne was not completely sure of Josiah's meaning, but instead of nervousness, these words invoked a feeling of hope and excitement. She found herself basking in the joy of not only being in Josiah's presence, but the sole object of his attention. As their walk and conversation continued, Cheyenne found herself drinking in this bliss, until she felt drunk on it.

It was almost two hours later when Cheyenne and Josiah reached the clearing Cheyenne was leading them to. Though she had seen it dozens of times in the past, knowing that Josiah was there to share it with her seemed to make the surroundings come alive. The grass appeared greener, the stream sparkled with the sunlight brighter, and the birds seemed to sing only for them.

"Here it is Josiah." Cheyenne said waiting for Josiah to break free of the woods and join her in the clearing. For the last few feet her eagerness had quickened her steps, causing her to pull ahead of Josiah. As she watched his eyes take in the sights she asked in a hopeful tone, "Do you like it?"

Josiah took a moment to finish surveying the site. "Anni........it's just beautiful." Josiah was in awe of how perfect the spot was. As if it had been created just for this moment, for the two of them to share.

His response pleased Cheyenne. Josiah seemed to love the spot just as much as she did. "I think right over there, beside the stream, would be a good place to eat......don't you?"

"Yes, perfect! Why don't you spread the blanket and I'll get out the food." He said, walking with Cheyenne towards the area she had chosen.

Once there, Josiah placed the basket on the ground and opened it to remove the blanket. "Here you go, Anni." She accepted it and ,holding on to one edge, whipped it forward to spread it out. As it settled, unfurled, to the ground Josiah repositioned the basket on to the blanket to keep the breeze from carrying it away.

Peering in to the opened basket, Josiah remarked, "Anni......you expecting guests?"

"No. Why?" She replied, puzzled.

Josiah chuckled as he began to unload the contents and place them on the blanket. "Cause it looks like you packed enough for an army!"

Cheyenne gave him a sly grin and retorted, "You will need lots of food to give you energy.......so you can keep up with me."

His chuckle turned in to all out laughter. "Is that so? You know Anni, between you and your father I'm gonna get a complex about my wilderness abilities."

Cheyenne's only reply was to join in the laughter. She then moved beside Josiah and began to help him remove the food and set it out. As she carefully lowered a plate of cheese with one hand, her other hand blindly reached back into the basket for another item. Yet, instead of it falling on the food she had packed it, it found one of Josiah's hands.

The shock of the sensation made Cheyenne whip her head around to face Josiah and apologize, but once her eyes met his her words became lost. Locked in a stare, reminiscent of the one they shared at the cabin, each searched the others eyes for a possible sign as to what the other was feeling.

At that moment the world around them seemed to slip away, each only aware of the other and their own desires. The urge to lean forward and kiss Cheyenne's lusious lips burned in Josiah, but he knew he must not. As much as his body ached to do so, he knew it would not be proper. Especially since he had not even declared his intentions as yet. So, not wanting to add to his temptation, Josiah pulled his hand out from under Cheyenne's and spoke. "Um.....we should eat, Anni.......before the squirrels come and steal it." He hoped his attempt at humor would ease the moment.

Knowing that, like before, the moment was about to slip away, Cheyenne held her eyes to Josiah's for a moment longer and whispered, "I am so glad we did this today."

Any doubts Josiah may have had about persueing Cheyenne crumbled the instant she spoke those words. Not able to resist some small show of affection towards the woman he now knew he loved, Josiah took the hand that had covered his only seconds before and raised it to his lips. "So am I Annie.....more than you may know." With that he placed a gentle kiss on the back of her hand, then slowly relinquished it back to her.

Heart pounding and head swimming with joy, Cheyenne was speechless as she withdrew her hand and placed it on her lap. Surely, she thought, this must be a sign. Could it be that her beloved Josiah, at last, shared in the love she felt? It was all she could do to refrain from taking him in her arms and drowning in the feeling of his body against hers.

Cheyenne's eyes shone with love as she continued to gaze at Josiah. The urge to continue once again filled Josiah. Fearing that he soon would not be able to fight it, he once again attempted to redirect their attention to the food. In a soft voice Josiah said, "We should eat before it gets too late."

The only response Cheyenne could muster in her dazed state was a nod. With that the two began to uncover the food and dig in to it. Although Cheyenne went through the motions of eating, she did not taste a thing. Her mind continually replayed the moment that Josiah had laid that gentle kiss on her hand.

The conversation was a light one. Both aware that, though there was much that needed to be said, neither trusted themselves to pick up where they had left that tender moment. The urges surging through themselves would, no doubt, overrule their judgment and neither wanted to ruin this perfect moment by doing something they may later regret.

When lunch was finished, they both helped in packing the leftovers back in to the basket. As they were about to leave the clearing Cheyenne paused and, with sadness in her voice, asked, "Once we return to the cabin you will be going back right?"

Josiah shared in her sorrow but reassured her. "Yes, Anni, I must go back, but I plan on returning very soon.....within a week if possible. Will that be OK?"

Her heat raced at his response. Never before had Josiah planned such a speedy return to visit. She prayed that it was due to his desire to see her again soon. A gentle smile formed on her soft lips. "Yes Josiah, I would like that very much."

Both wanting to savor their last couple of hours together, their return hike to the cabin was at a slow pace. They continued to talk, joke, and at every opportunity steal loving glances at the other.

Jacques looked up from the traps he was oiling to see Josiah and Cheyenne appear out of the woods, heading for the cabin. As they drew closer Jacques got a sense, from the way the two walked so close to each other, that the time alone had succeeded in clarifying their feelings for each other.

Once they were only a few feet away, and before they tore their eyes from the other to him, Jacques knew that there was love in each's eyes for the other. This brought peace of mind to him. He had always wanted his daughter to find a good man, who would love her as she deserved. Jacques knew that Josiah was a man who would do that and so much more.

"Hello Jacques, how were the traps this morning?" Josiah asked as he walked up to the man.

Jacques nodded his head and replied, "Good. How was your day?" He hoped Josiah would pick up on his hidden meaning.

"It was very pleasant, thank you." There was restraint in his tone, like he wanted to say more but did not dare at that moment.

Cheyenne, sensing that the men had something they wanted to discuss, took the opportunity to excuse herself. "Josiah, give me the basket and I will take it in to the cabin."

Josiah nodded, handed her the basket, and watched her walk away. Once she was inside Josiah turned his attention back to his friend. An uncontrollable smile spread across his face.

Jacques took note of this smile and said, "You seem a much happier man than when I left you my friend."

Letting out a contented sigh, Josiah nodded his head. "Yes, Jacques, I am a happy man! I must thank you for suggesting I spend time with Anni. It opened both my eyes and my heart."

It was Jacques turn to smile. "I am very glad to hear that Josiah." Then with a mischievous tone added, "Does this mean you will be taking my daughter from me?"

Josiah became serious at the question. He chose his words carefully before he answered. "Jacques, I would like to ask you for Cheyenne's hand in marriage. It would make me the happiest man alive if she could be my wife."

"You know that you have my permission Josiah, why do you not ask Cheyenne?"

Again Josiah paused before answering. "I will........but not today. I must head back soon, as you know, and I want it to be special......not rushed. Also, there are some things I must arrange back at the mission. I figure I will need a house for us and perhaps a perish of my own, for stability. I want to have these things before I ask her. Anni deserves the very best and I want to give it to her."

Jacques placed a reassuring hand on Josiah's arm. There was no doubt in his mind that Josiah would do everything in his power to make Cheyenne's life a happy one......just as Chief Strong Wolf had said Jacques had done for Raven. "You will my friend, I know your heart and it is a good one."

The little anxiety that Josiah was experiencing was whisked away by Jacques words of trust. "Thank you, my friend." He then asked Jacques, "So, do you think we could keep my intentions just between us until I get back, in about a week or so? Once I ask her, I want the three of us to head back to the mission so we can get married right away."

Jacques looked at Josiah with understanding in his eyes and nodded his agreement. "Yes, I believe that would be best. If Cheyenne feels as strongly about you as I think she does, she will drive me crazy for the next week it she knew for certain you were coming back to marry her." Then with a chuckle he added, "As it stands, it is bound to be bad enough."

Josiah joined in the laughter and said, "I am bound to make life hell for the other's at the mission as well. Perhaps after this week they will be glad to be rid of me!" Realizing that time was slipping away Joisah let out a sigh. "Well. I should gather my things and head out. Are you coming in?"

"No. I will wait for you out here Josiah." Jacques replied. "You two love birds do not need me hanging around while you say your good-byes." With that he turned his attention back to his traps.

Josiah gave Jacques a friendly pat on the back and walked to the cabin.

When he got inside, Josiah saw Cheyenne standing in front of the table, his packed bag in hand.

"Anxious to get rid of me Anni?" Josiah teased as he relieved her of the heavy bag.

Cheyenne's voice trembled with the emotions she fought to hold back. "No.....it is just that I do not like long good-byes." She blinked back the tears that crept in to the corners or her sorrowful eyes. It had always been hard to see him go in the past, but the pain she felt this time threatened to tear her heart to shreds.

"Oh Anni." Josiah whispered as he brushed away a tear that had escaped and slid down her delicate cheek. "Anni, this is not goodbye. It is just me going away for a short time........one week, that is all. After that week I am coming back for y.......I and coming back." Josiah corrected himself, not wanting to give his plans away. Though he longed to tell her in hopes it would sooth her sorrow, he knew it was best to wait.

His words seemed to ease her pain and she gave Josiah a modest smile. "Then I will look forward to your return. Now, go......the sooner you go, the sooner you will be back."

Josiah nodded, and turned to walk away. He had not taken his first step when he turned back to Cheyenne and took her hand in his. Like he had done earlier, he raised it to his lips and placed a loving kiss on it. "I will be thinking of you until I see you again."

"I will think of you too, I promise. Now.......go."

This time Josiah did leave, closing the door behind him. In unison with the ‘thud' the door made as it closed, a tear fell from Cheyenne's eye and landed on the floor beside her.

+ + + + + + +

Two days after arriving back at the Mission, Josiah was called into Reverand Morgan's small office at the back of the building. Josiah had requested a meeting with him the moment he had returned, but with the mission being short handed, and so much to do, it was not until now that Reverand Morgan had a moment to spare.

It had been torture for Josiah to go through the motions of his duties at the mission for those two days. All the while wanting desperately to set the wheels in motion for his departure, so he could be back in the arms of his beautiful Cheyenne.

As he stepped into the reverand's office, Josiah was a mixture of relief, for finally being able to tell the man his intentions, and anxiety, for fear things would not go as smoothly or quickly as he hoped.

"Good morning Josiah!" Reverand Morgan rose from the seat behind his small desk to greet his friend. Reverand Morgan was a small man in his late sixties, with a kind face and an easy manner. It was these attributes that no doubt made him so popular with the parishioners and people that came to the mission seeking solace.

When one laid eyes on reverand Morgan, all their fears of hellfire and brimstone were banished by his friendly demeanor and quick witted sense of humor. He looked more like your favorite uncle than a mighty servant of the lord, but it was just that fact that made it easy for those souls in despair to approach him for redemption.

Josiah walked forward, to meet reverand Morgan half way, and shook the hand that was offered. "I am very well, thank you reverand......and yourself?" The two men had been so busy over the last couple of days, that they had barely had time to give each other passing nods of acknowledgment, let alone discuss Josiah's trip.

Reverand Morgan let out an exhausted sigh and smiled. "I am good, but once those new preachers we are expecting arrive to help lessen the load, I will be much better." He then motioned for Josiah to take a seat in one of the chairs to their left.

Once the men were seated, reverand Morgan added, "I should not complain though. As you well know, Josiah, the lord's work is not meant to be easy!" He gave his friend a mischievous wink and pulled out a flask from under his chair. He then rose to retrieve two glasses from a near by side table. "Join me in a little drink? I do not think, in light of all our hard work these past few days, that the lord would spite us for it."

Josiah chuckled and replied, "No, I don't suppose he would.....and yes, I will join you." Josiah had liked reverend Morgan from the moment he had met him, almost a year ago. He was an easy man to like. Taking the lords work seriously, but not taking himself too serious at that. He had a passion for life, and loved nothing more than to share it with others, in hopes that they would absorb it.

He would dearly miss this man when he left, and felt a twinge of guilt at leaving reverend Morgan when the mission was in such a state of transformation.

Up until recently the mission had housed only a hand full of reverends and preachers, and had only a small amount of parishioners to call their own. Yet, all that was changing at a rapid rate as the area was being flooded with settlers looking for a piece of the new frontier. There was two things they wanted when they settled here. They wanted a chunk of land, and they wanted to be in touch with their God. The mission was in the business of providing the later, and it had nearly turned into an around the clock job. Whether it was meeting the new parishioners, or build the modest extention that would house the growing number of attendees to their Sunday services, it allowed little time for rest.

Reverend Morgan returned with two glasses of whiskey in hand and held one out for Joisah. "So, my friend, how was your visit with your old friend Jacques?"

Josiah accepted the glass and answered, "It was wonderful. Better than I expected, actually." He could not keep from grinning as he thought of the woman who waited there for him to return.

Revedrand Morgan took his seat and with a curiously raised eyebrow said, "Is that so? May I ask why it was so unexpectedly pleasant?" He took a sip of his drink while waiting for Josiah's response.

Josiah also took a large sip from his glass, taking the time to chose the right words to tell father Morgan of Cheyenne and how he planned to leave the mission and make her his wife. He knew reverand Morgan would be overjoyed for him, but he also knew that it would make the task of getting the mission in order more difficult with one less person.

Josiah let out a sigh and looked at his friend. "Well, actually, that is what I wanted to talk to you about."

"Really?" Reverend Morgan replied, a tone of curiosity and amusement in his voice. "Then by all means.....do continue."

Josiah nodded, and forged ahead. "Well, see.......Jacques has this daughter, Cheyenne, I am sure you have heard me speak of her before."

"Yes...." The amusement in reverend Morgan's tone was now blatantly apparent, and he wore a smirk to match.

Josiah smiled, knowing that reverend Morgan probably had a pretty good idea where this was going. "Yes, well........to make a long story short, I have come to realize that I love her. I plan on returning to her in a few days and asking her to marry me."

Before Josiah could say another word reverend Morgan was on his feet and patting Josiah on the back. "That is wonderful Josiah! Absolutely wonderful! I had always hoped you would find yourself a wife and start a family. You seem to suit it."

Josiah accepted reverend Morgan's congratulations and praise with a feeling of uneasiness. The man was obviously overjoyed at the news, but Josiah had not yet had a chance to tell him the hard part of his plans. "Thank you, father, but there is more that I need to tell you."

Hearing the seriousness in his tone, reverend Morgan sat back down. "All right, tell me Josiah. What ever it is, I am sure there is no need for the look of despair on your face."

Josiah took another sip of his drink. "Reverend Morgan, you know I love working here with you and the others, but if I am to be married and start a family I will need a place of my own and a perish of my own. I am truly sorry........but in order to provide properly for Cheyenne, I must leave here." Josiah searched the man's face for indications of disappointment.

Yet, instead, reverend Morgan's face broke into a huge grin. "So you are looking for something a little more stable and suitable for a family are you?"

Josiah was confused by reverend Morgan's reaction, it was not at all what he had expected. He answered his question hesitantly. "Yes........you are not upset with me?"

Reverend Morgan let out a robust laugh. "Upset? Not at all! This is going to work out better than I had hoped!" Reverend Morgan leaned forward in his chair and continued. "You see, Josiah, I have been meaning to talk to you as well."

Completely puzzled, Josiah asked, "You have? About what........me leaving?"

Again the man laughed. "Of course not, Josiah! In fact quite the opposite. You see, Josiah, for as long as I have been serving God, I have been doing it from a small perish, in a small town." He then motioned to their surroundings, to indicate the changing mission that they were in. "This.......this is too much for an old man like me to run. It needs someone younger. Someone who not only loves his work as much as I do, but is able to see that all these new parishioners are taken care of. It needs someone like you, Josiah,.....and I want you to take it over from me."

Josiah was stunned. He did not know what to say. This was the last thing he had expected to come from his decision, and his mind was having a difficult time wrapping itself around the idea. After a moment he asked the only question that came to mind. "But what about Cheyenne? Surely we cannot live in my tiny room here."

Reverend Morgan shook his head while he swallowed his sip of whiskey. "No, of course not. I am prepared to offer you a house in town, Josiah. I have already looked into it, and with the ever growing congregation, the church will easily be able to afford to build you and Cheyenne a nice house to live in." Seeing that Josiah was unsure what to say, he urged his friend. "Josiah. Take it......say yes. It will be a wonderful addition to your new life. You will have no trouble providing not only necessities for Cheyenne, but good standing in the town, as the preacher's wife."

Josiah knew he was right. This was better than he had ever imagined, and he would be a fool to turn it down. He gave his friend an excited grin and said, "All right then. I'll do it! And thank you so much reverend!"

"It is I that should be thanking you! Now this old dog will get some much needed rest. Granted, I will still be kicking around here to help when needed, but you will be the one who runs the show."

Josiah was about to say something like never being able to fill reverend Morgan's shoes, when one of the younger preachers knocked on the door and entered the room.

"Reverend Morgan? Sorry to disturb you but there is a man here who says he is in need of shelter and food. The rest of us are swamped with building the addition......do you think you could come help him?"

Before reverend Morgan could answered, Josiah jumped in. "I will do it. Tell him I will be there in just a moment."

"Certainly, Josiah, and thank you." With that the young preacher left and closed the door behind him.

"Might as well jump in with both feet, eh Josiah?" Reverend Morgan quipped.

"Yup." He replied and headed for the door, to go see the man in need.

Before he left, reverend Morgan said, "Just let me know when you plan on going back to fetch your lovely bride, and don't worry about plans for the house....I will take care of it from this end."

"Thank you again, reverend, you are a generous man."

"Ha! You may be singing a different tune once you are knee deep in sermon planning and baptisms!" The reverend teased.

Josiah let out a chuckle as he opened the door. "You may be right . . . but like you said, you will be here to help." He gave the reverend a wink and left the room.

+ + + + + + +

The young preacher returned to the small room that he had left the stranger in. "Sir, someone will be right with you all right?"

The man looked up from a small pouch he was holding and gave the young man a humble smile. "Why thank you son. You are very kind."

The preacher returned the smile and then left. As soon as the young man was out of the room, the stranger's smile turned to a sneer. "Bloody preachers." He whispered to himself. "They are always willing to help a lost soul.....as long as you find God." The words were dripping with sarcasm and hate. Then again, most of this man's words tended to do so.

The stranger's name was Chase Lancer, and he was about as evil as they came. The only reason he ended up in a mission, of all places, was because he knew if he fed these sappy God lovers the right sob story they would take him under their wing, and as such, hide him, unknowingly, from the men that were hunting him down to kill him.

These hunters of his rotten hide were, in fact, family. To be more precise, they were the father and three brothers of his dead wife. Under normal cercumstances, a grieving widower would usually be receiving words of condolance from his father-in-law and brothers-in-law, but since Chase was the one that had killed her, this was anything but normal.

An evil smirk came to Chase's smear of a mouth as he thought of how good it felt to finally be rid of that tiresome woman. Ever since they had married, two years ago, that nag of a woman had brought him nothing but grief. He had tried several times to show her who was boss, usually by beating her within an inch of her worthless life, but this last time she had just pushed him too far.....and he had decided to go that extra inch.

SIX

Chase was snapped out of his reverie by the sound of the door opening. Quickly resurecting the mask of a heart broken man, and going over his rehersed story one last time, Chase looked up to greet the man who entered.

Josiah entered the room where the man awaited him. Before him sat the picture of a dejected man. He sat, shoulders hunched, on the corner of a bench wearing a weary expression. The man appeared to, indeed, be down on his luck and Josiah set about seeing what he could do to turn that luck around.

Extending his right hand as he walked to where the man sat, Josiah introduced himself. "Hello sir, my name's Josiah Sanchez. I'm one of the preachers at this mission."

Chase took Josiah's hand and replied, "How good to meet you. My names Chase Lancer, and I wanna thank you for taking me in like this......" Chase let his voice trail off into a pitifull whisper and lowered his eyes as if in humility....it was all for effect.

Poor soul, Josiah thought to himself. He wondered what turn of events could have caused this man to be suffering so. He took a seat on the bench next to Chase and decided to attempt to find out. "So tell me, brother, what brings you to our mission?"

Chase let out a long, sorrowful sigh and began to wring his calloused hands. "Well, Joisah......do I call you Josiah?Or preacher?" He thought of what he would like to call this bible thumping do gooder, but he would refrain until such time as he was no longer essential to his safety.

"You may call me Josiah."

Chase gave Josiah a humble smile and continued. "Well, Josiah, you see . . . I am at my wits end. My wife . . . Emily . . . she has gone missing, you see, and I have been combing the area in search of her."

Josiah's heart went out to the man. Having just discovered the bond that love could form between two people, Josiah could only imagine the pain it would bring when the bond was broken . . . even for a short period of time.

"How horrible for you Mr. Lancer. You must be beside yourself with worry. have you been looking long? have you had any leads as to her whereabouts?"

Chase burried his head in his hands. He was skilled at summoning false emotions when he needed to, but even he needed a minute to beckon the tears that would put the icing on this cake, so to speak.

Sure enough, with a little prodding, his eyes began to mist up and he rose his head as he spoke. "To answer your questions, yes.....I have been looking for nearly two weeks, which seems like a life time......and no, I have had no leads as to where she may be."

Chase then went in for the kill. He looked Josiah straight in the eye, and with the cunning that perhaps the devil himself would be envious of, he let a tear roll down his dust covered cheek. In a squeek of a voice he begged, "Please Josiah, might I stay here....just for a night or two....in order to regain my strength so that I can continue to search for my beloved wife?"

"Of course you may, Mr. Lancer. That is what we are here for." Josiah placed a reassuring hand on the man's shoulder. "I will see that you get some food and rest. Then, perhaps tomorrow, we could possibly see about checking with the local law to see if they can aid you in your search."

Chase had no intentions of going anywhere near a law man. Why, with the henious deeds he had commited, he was sure any law man laying eyes on him would recognise him and throw him in a cell and call a hanging judge directly afterwards. Still, that was tomorrow, and he didn't plan on being here then. He had seccured a safe hiding place for the night, and tomorrow he would be gone by first light. By then those men hunting for him would have been thrown off his tracks and he would be free to move on to different parts . . . and different evils.

"You are too kind, Josiah. Tell me....do you have one that you love?" He could not resist the masked jab at this man. These preacher types, especially the ones in these missions, were too busy praying to get themselves a woman and have a little fun with them. Besides, even if they did find a woman between the prayers, he'd have to marry her first . . . and Chance knew all to well what hell that could be.

But to Chase's surprise, Josiah answered, "Well, actually, yes I do."

"Really?" Chase could not keep the shock out of his tone. He covered this by adding, "I just thought that with living a mission, and helping all us lost souls, that you may not have time to find a wife."

Josiah smiled and nodded. "Well, you are partly right. I have not married her yet....though I plan to soon. As for the mission, I shall attempt to do my work here after Cheyenne and I are married, but if it proves too much I will seek a smaller parish."

Intrigued by this bit of information, Chase probed for more. "Cheyenne.....what a beautiful name. Tell me about her....it would help to take my mind off my sorrow to hear how two people fell in love." Chase watched the trusting preacher take the bait like a greedy fish. This was almost too easy, he thought to himself.

Josiah, wanting to ease the man's pain, even if for only a few moments, gladly complied. Besides, he was still near bursting with joy over the recent events, and was all to happy to voice it.

"Well, like I said, her name is Cheyenne. She and her father, a good friend of mine, live in a cabin about two hours east of here, at the foot of the mountains. I have known both of them for about a year now, but never realized how much I cared for Anni, that's what I call her, until my last visit only last week. So, I decided to make her my wife.....and I am returning in two days time to ask her." Josiah beamed at the mere thought of having Cheyenne as his wife, and talking about it only made him more anxious to make it happen.

"What a wonderful story." Chase replied. And what a good deal of information on this preacher's woman. Chase made a mental note of everything said...never know...it may come in handy. Right now, though, all that interested him was some food and sleep. Running for your life sure took a lot out of a man.

Josiah senced the man's increasing weariness. "Please, forgive me Mr. Lancer. You must be tired and hungry. Come with me and lets find you a bed and a hot meal."

Chase only nodded, most of his energy spend on his earlier performance.

Two hours later found Chase Lancer with food in his belly and a warm bed in which to lay his weary bones. Better than a hotel, he thought to himself, cause the damn things free!

He was just about to start stripping off his clothes, and climb in bed when he heard a knock at the door of his small room "What the hell now?" He muttered to himself. For a place of sanctuary, it sure as hell was hard to find any peace.

Summoning every ounce of energy his exhausted body could muster up, Chase once again erected the facade and said, "Come in...the door's open."

Hearing the permission to enter, Josiah opened the door and walked into the man's room. "Hello again, Mr. Lancer. I just wanted to check and make sure you were all settled."

"Yes, thank you. I am." The man's response was short and to the point. He was growing ever more weary of this meddlesome preacher.

Josiah gave Chase a nod of his head and replied, "That's good to hear, well.....I will leave you to it then." He turned to leave when suddenly he recalled what he carried in his hand. "Oh." He said, turning back. "I nearly forgot. I brought you something." With that he held out the bible he had wanted to give to him.

Eyeing the offered bible for a brief second, Chase felt a wave of disgust and anger sweep over him. All he wanted to do was get some sleep and then get the hell out of this place first thing in the morning, but this damn preacher was keeping from it by shoving his religion down his throat.

Deciding the quickest way to get rid of Josiah was just to accept the damn book, Chase took the offered bible and with a weak smile said, "Thank you Josiah, I will read it when I am not so tired." Chase hoped the preacher would take the hint and get out.

"Of course." Josiah said. "I know you must be exhausted. I just wanted you to have it for comfort in your time of grief. I even wrote a little message on the inside of the cover for you."

"Oh really?" Chase asked. Curiosity overtaking his weariness. I just had to see what pretty words the preacher wrote for me, Chase thought sarcastically.

Sure enough, when he open the bible there was a written inscription on the back of the cover. It read, "Mr. Lancer, Remember that God is always with you and that in your time of need he will not forsake you."

Chase had to fight to stifle laughter at the sappy sentiment. If only he knew, Chase thought to himself, that the man this preacher was trying to comfort had been responsible for sending more people to meet his precious God than any man I.....or probably this preacher.....had ever met.

As Chase looked up from the book, to give Josiah the expected words of thanks, he saw the preacher exiting the room......leaving him alone, at last. Once the door was closed Chase took the offending bible and shoved it in his back pack. More to just get it out of his sight than any desire to keep it. Having done that, he then crawled into his bed and let a restful, guilt free sleep overcome him.....after all, guilt required a conscience. Something Chase Lancer did not posses.

The next morning Josiah woke bright and early and went straight to see reverend Morgan. Josiah was hoping he would allow Josiah to leave for his return to Cheyenne today, instead of tomorrow as he had earlier planned.

Finding the reverend overseeing the construction of the new addition, Josiah walked up to him and said, "Good morning reverend Morgan. I have a favor to ask of you."

"Good morning yourself Josiah." He replied cheerily. "Ask away, my friend."

"I was hoping I could leave a day early.....um, today......to go and see Cheyenne. Would that be a problem?"

The reverend patted Josiah on the back and laughed. "Not at all, Josiah! In fact I was going to suggest you head out early. The sooner you go, the sooner you will bring back this lovely woman so I can meet her."

With a sigh of relief Josiah smiled. "Thank you so much. I will just check quickly on the man that came in yesterday and then be on my way." He then turned to leave but was stopped by reverend Morgan's words.

"No need for that." The reverend said. "I went to check this morning on him and found he had left us already."

An expression of concern came over Josiah's face. "Really? Strange that he would leave so soon, and without so much as a good bye." Josiah then reasoned, "I suppose he went out looking for his wife. I know that if Cheyenne was in trouble I wouldn't rest until she was safe as well."

The reverend only nodded, and then watched Josiah walk away. Ah, he thought to himself, the eagerness of a man in love. He could hardly wait until he met the woman that made Josiah so happy. Won't be long now, she'll be here before I know it.

Chase had been riding for a good half an hour when he heard horses coming up behind him. Damn! He thought, those bastards have found me again. He was just about to spur his horse into a gallop when a familiar voice called out to him.

"Hey Chase! That you you old scoundrel?"

Turning around, relief flooded over him as he yelled back, "Stu! You don't know how glad I am that it's you! And is that Henry and Jesse I see with you there?"

"Sure is!" Jesse called back as they rode up beside Chase.

These three men riding up had ridden in the same gang as Chase a few years ago, and as such were of the same breed........rotten to the core and always looking for trouble.

"What you doing out here Chase? You're about the last person I expected to see way the hell out here." Jesse inquired.

Chase gave a bitter laugh. "Trying to stay low and keep from getting my hide shot full of holes!"

Stu shook his head and gave a snort. "Figures, Chase, figures. You always did have at least one person gunning for ya. Oh well......no matter now. We're hear and if who ever it is finds ya the three of us will be more than happy to help ya turn the tables. We like that kind of thing don't we boys?"

"Sure do!" Jesse shot back, eager for some action.

Henry just nodded and smiled. Not that he wasn't as eager as the others, but he wasn't much on words. He let his actions, most of them despicable, speak for him.

"Well that's just great!" Chase exclaimed. "Knew I could count on you boys!"

"So.....what we gonna do until then?" Jesse inquired. "I mean I don't aim to just sit here waiting for trouble to show up. Kinda like to find it myself!"

All at once Chase had what in his twisted mind was a great idea. "I got something we can do!"

"Yeah? What's that?" Stu asked, reaching into his saddle bag for something.

Chase gave his companions a sinister grin. "Know of a nice secluded place where we can find ourselves a sweet young thing to play with."

"Now that sounds like our kind of thing Chase!" Stu replied as he produced a bottle of whiskey and crack open the top. "What say we get into some of this here whiskey and go find us this place?"

All the men nodded in agreement. Chase spurred his horse and, with the men riding beside him, he set about leading them to a nice little cabin some nice preacher had told him about.

It had taken the four men a little longer than originally anticipated to find the cabin. This was due to the fact that their directions were not specific, coupled with their state of great intoxication from the whiskey they had been guzzling since they started out on this quest. But that didn't matter now, they were there and Chase and the other three were all anxious to lay claim to whatever treasures lay inside.

Jesse was the first to notice the old man working outside the small cabin. Slurring his words, he said, "Hey Chase. Lookths like we got ourthelves a welcomin committee."

A sinister grin appeared on Chase's lips. "Now don't you worry none about the geezer there Jesse." Chase pulled his gun out of it's holster . . . fighting not to drop it, then raised it out in front of him. Closing one eye, he tried desperately to aligned the barrel with the distant image of Jacques. The actions cause him to nearly lose his balance and he had to take hold or the horn on his saddle to steady himself. "If he decides to give us any trouble . . . "Chase made the sound of a pistol firing. "We'll just cap the bastard. Don't want nothing getting in the way of us and a piece of that little girl in there!" A ripple of wicked laughter made it's way through the group.

"Oh hell," Stu called out from behind in a boisterous voice. "Why don't we just waste ‘em anyway....no witnesses then." Finding his own thought amusing, Stu set out in a fit of drunken laughter.

Henry, being a man of few words, only nodded his approval.

"Reckon you're right, Stu." Was Chase's reply, but his tone turned deadly serious.

Jacques heard the faint sound of horse hooves echoing on the soft ground. He looked up from his chores to see four men riding towards him.

Though Jacques was a kind and generous man by nature, he instantly found himself disliking the look of these men. His hand slowly slid down to his side to confirm that he was carrying the new hunting knife Josiah had given him. Just in case, he thought.

"Morning sir." Chase said as he tipped his hat in Jacques direction. The others only nodded, deciding to let Chase do the talking.

"Morning." Jacques replied curtly. "What can I do for you?" He searched the faces of the men before him and found no good in them, increasing his uneasiness. He noted that one of the men seemed to be having trouble sitting straight in his saddle.

"Well, seems me and my friends here have become a little lost." Chase started, making broad hand gestures that were often associated with a drunk man. "We were wondering if you might point us in the direction of the town of Eagle Bend." Chase always liked to feel out his victims before he struck. He liked to know what kind of a life he was taking. Starting idle chit chat not only made this possible, but prolonged the excitement for Chase.

Jacques put down the trap he had been working on and pointed to his left. " Seven miles that way....just follow the river. It will lead you to it."

Seeming to ignore Jacques directions, Chase scanned the small clearing. "Nice place you have here." His blurred vision took note of the pile of valuable furs that lay by the door to the cabin.

The longer these men stayed, the more Jacques wanted to see them go. The distinct odor of whiskey emanated from them and Jacques knew that whiskey often made good men bad....and bad men worse.

"I have given you your directions. Is there something else you want?"

"As a matter of fact, old man, "Chase replied with a crooked grin. "There is. I hear you got yourself a daughter." Snickers wafted from the other men.

His fears confirmed, Jacques grabbed for his knife and yelled at the cabin. "Cheyenne!"

That was all he could get out before Chase drew his weapon and put a bullet in Jacques. He crumpled to the ground and lay motionless.

Cheyenne sat by the fire darning socks and daydreaming of Josiah. He would be back soon and her heart filled with joy at the thought of the reunion. Many times, since he had left, Cheyenne had replayed in her mind the moment he had taken her hand in his and kissed it. There were times when the image was so vivid she swore she could feel the warmth of his lips on her skin.

Her mind wandered even further, creating images of those tender lips on hers. His strong hands caressing her body as he loved her. Cheyenne knew very little of the act that men and women did together when they shared their love, but she had no doubt in her mind that with Josiah it would be a glorious union.

She laid her darning on her lap and leaned forward to retrieve the music box Josiah has given her from the table. She cupped it in her hands and let her thumbs caress it's surface. Cheyenne knew that as long as she lived she would treasure this gift....the first one given by the man she loved.

She was yanked from her reverie by a sharp cry of her name from her father outside. She thought she detected a tone of fear and urgency in the call, and she jumped up to see what was wrong.

Cheyenne only made it two steps closer to the door when it was flung open and a large, sinister stranger filled it's frame.

"Now there's what I came for!" Stu spat, and stumbled towards Cheyenne.

Frightened into action, Cheyenne spun around and headed for her father's rifle above the fireplace......her precious music box tumbling out of her hands and falling to the floor.

SEVEN

Her hands outstretched, Cheyenne reached for the rifle. Her fingers, however, were only allowed to brush it's surface, as if to mock her, as she felt a large hand bury itself then grab hold of her flowing hair. With a vicious yank that snapped her neck back near the breaking point, the man hauled her towards him.

The pain in her neck and scalp, only an indication of things to come, caused a scream to rip from her throat.

"Shut up!" The man barked at her and, digging his fingers into her tender scalp, started to spin her around to face him. Cheyenne fought the move, her eyes still cemented to the rifle, but he was too powerful and won out in the end.

"God damn! You're a half breed ain't ya?" He sneered, once he got a closer look at her.

Jesse entered the cabin just in time to hear Stu's complaint. "What the hell difference does it make? Now you gonna have your turn with her? Or are ya gonna pass her to me?" He took a swig of whiskey from the new bottle he had pulled out of his saddle bag.

Stu scanned Cheyenne's terrified features once again. "Aw hell! Only one thing a squaw's good for anyway!" With that he slammed her face into his in a vile mockery of a kiss. The man's breath tasted of sour whiskey and stale cigarettes. Cheyenne felt a lurching in her stomach as the man tried to part her pursed lips with his probing tongue.

Cheyenne let out a muffled cry as she raised her hands and, pressing them against the man's broad chest, fought to pry herself free of the man's vice like grip. Her small frame was no match for that of the burley man, and realizing that her current struggle was having no effect Cheyenne resorted to pounding at the man's solid chest with balled up fists.

The harder she fought the tighter his grip became on her. With his free hand he reached up and, taking hold of the neckline of her buckskin dress, tore it open to expose her right breast. Cheyenne felt a hot, sweaty palm take hold of her breast and begin kneading it greedily.

Don't touch me! Her mind screamed the words her mouth could not. You have no right . . . I'm not yours! The feeling of his skin made hers crawl with revulsion.

Anger and humiliation taking hold of her, Cheyenne decided she needed to take a more drastic course of action. With his snake like tongue still prying at her mouth, Cheyenne allowed it to enter just enough to lie between her teeth. Once she knew it was far enough, she opened slightly wider and bit down hard on the intruding muscle. Her teeth clamping down on his tongue, there was the briefest pause before they sank into the soft mass. A gush of what tasted like liquid iron ran over her own taste buds and carried on down her lips and chin.

It took a moment for the pain to register through the alcohol induced haze. When it did it was his turn to scream in pain, but Cheyenne would get hers back. Making a fist, he swung his arm back and delivered a forceful blow to her soft and yielding abdomen. The horrendous punch cause Cheyenne double over in pain and expelled the breath that rushed forth from the pit of her belly . . . forcing her to relinquish his tongue.

"You bitch, you're gonna pay for that!" As he steadied his wavering balance, his hand found purchase in her hair once more, and he lifted her head up just long enough deliver a backhand that caught her blood stained mouth and a good deal of her right cheek as well.

The momentum of the strike sent Cheyenne flying backward, her head connecting with the corner of the table with a resounding ‘crack'. The sight of Cheyenne's surrounding gave way to a brilliant flash of white light as she crumpled to the floor in a heap.

Her mouth parted to release a sob but her wind had been emptied by the blow and there was no sound. She gasped for air to satisfy her aching lungs but it seemed to elude her. As Cheyenne lay there surrounded by the substance her body craved she could not help but feel she was drowning.

"She's a feisty one ain't she?" Jesse cried as he walked up to where Cheyenne lay. "Think we need to beat some of that spunk out of her!" With that he swung his leg back, resting his hand on the table for stability, like a pendulum.

Fearing another blow to her stomach, Cheyenne crossed her arms over it protectively, while she tried to roll away from the impending blow. She was too slow and the action only served to double her injuries. As Jesse let his foot come crashing down to connect with Cheyenne it snapped, not only her right wrist, but some of the ribs that lay behind.

Cheyenne expended any air she had reclaimed in a raw howl as the excruciating pain ripped through her chest and right arm.

Stu, the iron like taste of his own blood mixing in his mouth with the after taste of liquor, spat out, "That ought to slow her down!"

He stepped up to position himself at her sprawled feet. "Now we're really gonna have some fun." His hands worked to undo his belt buckle, while he used his foot to spread Cheyenne legs further apart.

No! Cheyenne thought, I can't let this happen! With her good hand she grabbed and took hold of the table leg by her aching head. Summoning all the power she could, she attempted to use the leg to pull herself across the floor as she kicked with her legs, trying to grip the floor with her moccasins, and propel herself from the man that loomed over her. Each jarring motion sent waves of unbearable pain shooting through her entire body causing her to scream with each movement.

"Jesus, Jesse!" Stu screamed at the other man. "Get around there and hold this whore still!"

Jesse made his way to Cheyenne's head. As soon as he knelt down over her head Cheyenne's hand released the table leg and began clawing at the man's face....finding it's target several times and leaving angry red slashes in it's wake. He swore at her, and after several attempts gathered both of her wrists in his left hand, crushing her already broken one, and with his right hand slapped her across the face multiple times.

Cheyenne's voice now hoarse from screaming in pain, her cries were now more guttural and growing increasingly weaker as the severe beating took their toll.

She felt her dress being hiked up passed her hips, and the body of the other man position himself between her spread legs. His hands clamped down on her ankles to stop her legs from kicking and forced them to bend forward for easier access.

Just when Cheyenne thought she could feel no greater pain, the man thrust himself foreword and tore into her. Arching her back in an attempt to pull away, Cheyenne let forth a howl that could have been heard for a mile....had their been anyone but these cruel men to hear it.

Her body weak, broken, and her extremities bound, the only protest Cheyenne could offer up was to shake her bleeding head from side to side as she moaned over and over, "No.....No......No..."

Tears slid from her swollen and bruised eyes, burning her torn face with their saltiness. But it did not even compare to the torturous searing pain she felt between her legs. Each thrust was like a hot poker, and soon she found herself having to fight to stay conscious.

She was not sure how long it took for the first man to finish with her, but it mattered little as the second man replaced him in only moments. She could hear them talking but the fuzziness overtaking her mind would not let the words through.

As the searing started up again her mind began to drift and soon Cheyenne felt as if her spirit was floating above...staring down at the violation to her body below. Is this death? She wondered. She had never thought much on the subject in the past...fearing it she supposed......but now she thought it a blissful release, and she found herself praying for it's arrival.

Time held no meaning for her any longer. She was unaware, perhaps thankfully, of her surroundings to the point that she oblivious to the fact that Chase had finished loading up the furs from outside and was now inside, accompanied by Henry, loading up his backpack with anything he thought looked as if it could be traded in the next town.

Henry oggled Cheyenne's exposed body lying limp on the floor. Though she painted a groutesque picture, Henry found the sight very inviting. Seeing that Chase was still busy looting the cabin, he silently walked over to where she lay and started his turn with her.

He became frustratingly aware, after a few minutes of labouring over Cheyenne's unresponsive body, that he was far too drunk to finish the act. Taking his anger out on his victim, Henry withdrew and laid a vicious backhand to Cheyenne's face.....a spatting trail of blood flying from her face and landing on the floor.

Once satisfied he had enough trinkets, Chase stumbled over to where Cheyenne lay. "Jesus! You sure did a number on her, didn't you boys?" There was no scorn in his words . . . in fact the tone was one of amusement.

"Had no choice. She fought like a hell cat." Jesse offered up.

Chase let out a chuckle and set down his backpack on the table. "I guess she's just nicely broken in for me then! You boys check the grounds for any more valuables . . . I don't think she'll fight me much now."

The two men left and Chase lowered, first his pants, then his body onto Cheyenne's. Her only response was a pitiful moan...all that could escape her ballooning lips.

While Chase had his way with her he leaned his face to within inches of her assaulted one. The stench of whiskey hung in her nostrils, no matter which way she turned her head. Again she tried to escape by pressing her good hand to her attacker's chest and push away, but her strength was drained and there was no threat in the action.

Some time later.....Cheyenne had no idea how long . . . this man finished his deed and removed himself from on top of her. Kneeling over her, Chase gaze at her through blurry, drunken eyes.

He let out the laughter of a mad man, and searched his gun belt for the knife he always kept tucked in it.

"I'm gonna be nice to you little girl." He slurred, weaving slightly back and forth on his knees. "I'm gonna put you outta your misery." With that he grasped the knife in his left hand and with a wide slashing motion swiped the blade over Cheyenne's exposed throat.

Snapped out of her near comatose state, Cheyenne's eyes bulged against her swollen lids. She arched her back and let a gurgling sound escape her throat. She brought her good hand up to her throat and felt warm liquid flow from a large gash on her left side.

In his drunkenness Chase had missed the vital jugular and instead of releasing her from her pain, he had only added to it. This went unnoticed to Chase, though, as he had already fastened his pants and was getting ready to make haste. As he staggered by, Chase snatched his backpack off the table and flung it over his shoulder...spilling some of it's contents in the process. He then made his way to the open door and walked out to the yard.

As Cheyenne fought not to choke on the blood that flowed freely down her throat, she let her head flop to it's side and rest on the cool floor. Her hazed vision slowly began to focus on an object only inches from her face. As it took shape she recognized it as the music box she had been cradling what seemed like another life time ago. Cheyenne slowly inched her hand along the floor until she felt her hand enveloped the object.

As the men rode off in the distance, Cheyenne lay there on the floor of her home, barely covered by her blood soaked dress. Her face nearly unrecognizable in it's disfigurement......every inch covered in angry bruises and welts. As unconsciousness came to reclaim her, Cheyenne tightened her grip on the music box and with what she was sure was her dying breath, she parted her swollen lips and whispered the name..."Josiah."

+ + + + + + +

Josiah walked briskly in anticipation of the reunion with his beloved Cheyenne. He could hardly wait to hold her in his arms and tell her how much he loved her . . . to finally have her with him for all eternity as his wife and be able to show her all the things the world had to offer. His mind daydreamed of holding her close to him, having her lying beside him as he woke in the morning, sharing his life and his love with her.

He had gone over the proposal, what seemed like a thousand times, in his mind. Each word carefully chosen as to let Cheyenne know how much he loved her and wanted them to start a life together filled with happiness. Of course in his mind's version of the event Cheyenne always said yes to his question of marriage . . . and even though Joisah was almost certian that this would be the outcome, there was still a small part of him that would not let it's anxiouty be quelled until his ears heard the word from her lips.

As the cabin came into view Josiah's eye was drawn to something lying on the ground. As he came closer the object took on the form of a body. His heart lept from his chest to his throat and his fast walking pace broke into a run. Apon reaching the body, Josiah threw off the pack from his back and knelt down beside what he now knew to be the body of his friend Jacques.

The trapper lay almost face down on the ground, his hand still on the knife Josiah had given him. Josiah turned him over gently and placed his hand on Jacques throat, looking for a pulse. Fear swelled inside him as Josiah felt for any sign of life from his old friend, but after a few futile seconds his feared were confirmed.

"Jacques" He moaned, the word filled with loss, his sadness overwhelming him.

As Josiah's gaze left Jacques his eyes sought out the cabin and his grief was torn away from him with the arrival an all consuming terror.

"Cheyenne!" Her name slipped from his lips with out realization.

The sound of her name solidifying his fears, Josiah called out to her....his words echoing in the otherwise silent air.

"CHEYENNE!" he called out as he gently ,but quickly, lay Jacques back on the ground. Hearing no responce, Josiah jumped from his knees to his feet and ran to the cabin, all the while fear mounting.

"ANNI . . . ANNI WHERE ARE YOU?" Each word more desperate than the last.

The Cabin door hung slightly ajar. As Josiah reached it a small frightened voice from within begged him not to open it but a greater fear, the fear of not knowing where his Anni was, won out. Forging ahead, he threw open the door and let his eyes wildly search the cabin. Cemented in his spot at the entrance way, the horror that engulfed him was unlike anything he had ever felt before. What greeted Josiah's eyes played out like a feverish nightmare. The room sat in a state of total disarry. Items lay strewn on the floor, some broken, all not as they should be.......and there was blood.

Panting, Josiah fought to catch his breath as his eyes followed the trail of blood back to it's origin.There he saw his beloved Cheyenne lying on the floor in a pool of the angry red substance, her dress torn and barley covering her.

For a brief moment Josiah's mind refused to accept what his eyes knew to be true. That's not my Anni......the two images, one of Cheyenne on the day he last saw her, the other the one before him, flashed alternately before his eyes. The contrast of them made what Josiah saw before him all the more horrific.

As his mind began to accept the reality of what he saw it became devastatingly evident what had happened to her. In his confusion and fear Josiah was unaware of his body moving from the door way to Cheyenne's side. He knelt there next to her and leaned back on his feet. His hands shook and his eyes teared as he felt, and prayed, for a pulse.

"Oh my God, please don't let her be dead..... please God don't let her be dead." He repeated over again. He let a sigh of relief escape as he felt her faint heart beat.

His hands still shaking and tears falling like rain down his face, he gently collected up her broken body into his lap and pulled the flap of her torn of dress up to cover her exposed skin. He cradled her and held her close to him trying at the same time to keep pressure on the wound on the side of her neck.

"Anni" He said softly, gently brushing away the hair that clung to her blood caked face. "Anni?" He asked again looking for a sign of life from her. There was no response....she lie motionless. "Oh my god, "Josiah repeated over and over again, rocking her body as if to comfort her...or himself.

Then willing himself to snap out of his confusion and sorrow he gently laid her back on the floor. Josiah reached up for the quilt that lay across the rocking chair next to the fireplace and covered her with it. His hands still shaking and talking more to himself than anything as the shock and horror still engulfed him.

"I'll get you out of here." He said standing looking wildly about running his nervous shaking hands through his hair. "Doctor ...yes .. a doctor ..that's what we need .. I need to get you to a doctor." He spoke aloud trying to calm himself, but it was of no use.

His voice shook as hard as his hands seemed to. "Wagon.. Need a wagon." Josiah ran out the door his eyes darting wildly around searching for a wagon. Then he remembered Jacques's travois the man used to transport his furs to trade. Josiah ran to the corral where the travois was kept. His mind seemingly unaware of his body's movement as he quickly saddled the lone horse that was there and hooked the travois to the saddle, then lead the horse to the cabin door .

He ran back inside, stopping only for a second to check on Cheyenne again and then ran to her room tearing the covers from her bed. He then ran to Jacques room and did the same. Returning to the travois, he made a make shift bed. Once this was done Josiah again entered the cabin. He knelt and gently scooped up Cheyenne, still wrapped in the quilt he had covered her with, and carried her to the travois. Placing her ever so gently on it he secured her for the journey. He touched her cheek and smoothed back her hair while pleading, "Hang on Anni. Please God, please don't leave me. Just hang on I'll get you to a doctor"

Josiah leaped onto the saddle and gave the horse the command go, carefully watching as to not run the travois over any rocks or bumps in an attempt not to jar Cheyenne any more than necessary.

Josiah glanced at the body of his friend, still lying on the ground, as he passed it. It pained him greatly that he could not take care of him and bury his friend properly, but time was of the essence and he knew Jacques's first concern would also be Cheyenne.

Josiah continued looking back on Cheyenne as he rode. The pace was slow and he feared it would take too long to get her to a doctor this way .He didn't want to cause her undue pain but he also had no intentions of letting her die. He became more nervous as time went by and the once clean sheets became marked with still flowing blood.

Finally, deciding he had no choice, Josiah stopped the horse and dismounted. Unhooking the now unnecesary travois he quickly went over and gently gathered up Cheyenne's body. As a soft moan of pain escaped her split and swollen lips Josiah cringed and whispered," I'm sorry Anni. I'm sorry but we have to move faster."

Josiah didn't know how but he managed to get him self and Cheyenne mounted on the horse. Once he was settled and Cheyenne was safely cradled in his arms, Josiah spurred the horse which took off into a run . . . .

As he neared the mission Josiah started yelling out before the horse had yet come to a full stop. "GET A DOCTOR !!! She needs a doctor!!!!" He screamed to anyone who would could hear him.

He gently but quickly dismounted with Cheyenne in his arms and ran to the mission doors. His hands full of his beloved, Josiah kicked them open, unaware of the stares of concern from the people around them. He carried Cheyenne to his room and laid her in his bed.

Reverend Morgan had seen him come in and had followed after him, all the while wondering who the beaten creature that Josiah craddled was.

"Heaven help us!" He exclaimed as he entered Josiah's room and had a chance for closer inpection. Up close the wounds that had looked bad from a distance now caused the reverand's stomache to turn.

"GET A DOCTOR!" Josiah spat, fear of losing Cheyenne making him edgy .

Reverend Morgan tore his eyes from the girls body and laid a comforting hand on Josiah's shoulder. "We have no doctor here Josiah, you know that. Who is this poor creature? What happened?"

Josiah looked up at him. Panic shone in his tearstained eyes. His voice quivering he answered, "She's my Cheyenne. I don't know what happened!" His eyes darted back to and were fixed on the woman he loved. "I need to find a doctor! Please help me!" he begged

"In town," Reverend Morgan offered. "Maybe in town."

" Will you stay with her?" Josiah pleaded, his heart aching at the thought of having to leave Cheyenne.

"Yes," the reverend answered, urgency in his voice now also. "Now go! Quickly! I will do what I can for her." Josiah took one last look at Cheyenne, gently touching her bruised cheek, and spoke softly. "Hang on Anni. I won't be long. Hang on . . . I love you.."

Cheyenne never herd his words as Josiah ran out the doorand to his horse. He leapt into the saddle and took off on a dead run toward the nearest town . . . .

+ + + + + + +

After what seemed like an eternity Josiah reached Miller's Pass. It was the closest town to the mission, the one that was expanding at a rapid rate in all directions. Josiah could not help but wish it had expanded further and faster in order to be closer.

Riding like a bat out of hell, Josiah stormed down the main street until he spotted the town saloon. He jumped from his horse before it had even come to a complete stop and ran for it's opening.

Exploding through the doors he bellowed out. "I need a doctor! Where's the doctor ?"

Miller's Pass was a town, for the most part, newly populated with people who had come with the sole purpose of getting what they wanted out of life and as such hadn't formed much of a community spirit as yet. Therefor it should have come to no surprise that Josiah's plea for help was met with only a few curious glances before those eyes returned to what they had been doing before the interruption.

A drunken man at the bar laughed and staggered up to Josiah. Giving him a quick once over with blood shot eyes he said, "You done look like ya need no doctor." Furious that the man was mocking him instead of offering help, Josiah, without hesitation, doubled his fist and punched the drunk, sending him reeling to the floor.

Josaih was about to ask the question again when a hand touched his shoulder and a familiar voice asked," Josiah?"

Josiah spun around and saw a welcome sight. Nathan Jackson stood there with a mixture of concern and shock at the man he had known never to raise a hand to anyone.

Josiah and Nathan had met a few years ago. Josiah had helped Nathan hide from a man who had been hunting him down when Nathan had escaped slavery. The two had become good friends and trusted each other implicitly. Nathen had picked up healing and doctoring from the slave camps and although had no formal training, had skill enough to help Josiah in his time of need.

"Nathan! Thank God! Please, I need your help. My . . . my girl . . . she's . . . she was . . ." Josiah found he could not say the word that he knew and feared had happened to the woman he loved. "She was beaten and she's hurt bad. Please come with me . . . PLEASE!"

The last word carried with it such a note of desperation that Nathan did not even give a moment's thought before replying, "Of course I'll come. Show me where."

Josiah took Nathan by the arm and dragged him out the saloon doors. There was no time for niceities, they had to be fast . . . Cheyenne's life depended on it. Nathan mounted his horse as Josiah mounted his and the two rode like the wind back to the mission.

When they reached Josiah's room, where Cheyenne still lay unconscious, Josiah went to her.

Nathan stood shocked at the site he beheld." My God . . . ," he muttered under his breath, unable in his shock to say anything else.

Josiah gathered one of Cheyenne's hands in his and with the other caressed her cheek, careful not to aggravate her wounds. Then he looked at Nathan with pleading and pain filled eyes. "Help her Nathen..please don't let her die."

Nathan nodded slowly. He knew he had one hell of a job before him and didn't want to let Josiah down. He only hoped his limited skills were enough." I'll do what I can. You get on outta here now and let me tend to her."

Nathan could see Josiah was hesitant to leave her side. He still held her delicate hand in his and was searching her face with sorrowful eyes. "Go on now." Nathan urged. "There's nothing more you can do so leave me and let me try."

Josiah slowly relinquished Cheyenne's hand and, placing by her side, rose and left the room, followed by reverend Morgan. Nathan looked at the older woman who reverend Morgan had had come in to help care for Cheyenne and asked her to stay and help him. She did so without complaint.

Josiah resembled a caged animal as he paced outside the room waiting for word from Nathan. Reverend Morgan stayed with him but words of comfort did not comes easy at the moment and the reverend got the distinct feeling that they would fall on deaf ears anyway.

The longer Josiah waited the more his mind began to dwell on what he knew someone had done to his beloved Anni. Rage began to course through his body as his mind imagined the horrible acts Cheyenne must have endured. The thought of a man inflicting pain on his Anni, of touching her, of.......his mind halted just short of the heinous act. To go further would mean to lose all control, something he was barely maintaining as it was.

Reverend Morgan watched his friend closely, and seeing the pain and anguish written on his face said softly, "Josiah, have faith. Place your trust in God that he will care for her."

Josiah whipped his body around to face the reverend and with a coldness never before exhibited he spat out, "Faith? You want me to have faith and place my trust in a God that would let this happen?" Josiah could feel any restraint....and faith.....that he may have possessed leave him now as a tidal wave of fury and bitterness washed over him. "Cheyenne has never hurt a soul in her life and he lets this happen to her! What good does it do to put your trust and faith in a god that lets innocent people suffer without giving his protection?"

Josiah's fury visibly consumed him now. His voice shook with rage, his body trembled as the wrath of his god's betrayal flowed in him, and his eyes shone like that of a mad man about to commit evil.

Reverend Morgan became increasingly alarmed at the transformation before him and thought desperately of a way to quell his friends fury and sliding faith in their lord. "Josiah, God didn't do this to her, he's not to blame. It was a man that did this. An evil, twisted man..not God. God will be her salvation, whether she lives or dies Josiah, she will be with God. You must believe that."

Josiah's eyes narrowed as he looked at the reverend "Don't talk to me about your God right now reverend! He and I aren't seeing eye to eye right now. And if he lets my Anni die....." Josiah let the threat hang thick in the air as he turned and went back to his previous vigil at the door to his room that held his Cheyenne.

EIGHT

This was to be a happy day for him and Cheyenne. He was going to ask her to be his wife. He was going to tell her how much he loved her.....now that was all gone and if she lived he wondered if she would ever want any man.....even him....to ever love her.

No! Josiah shook the dreaded thought from his mind. He would take care of her from now on, he would always be there to protect her. No one would ever touch her again.

Two hours passed before Nathan emerged from the room. It had seemed like an eternity for Josiah and he looked anxiously at Nathan.

Nathan could not imagine what Josiah must have been going through, but he tried to give his friend a comforting look as he told him how things stood. " She'll live.... I think." He let an exhausted sigh escape. The truth was he was not so certain she would and decided honesty was the best policy. " I just don't know. If she makes it through the night she may have a fighting chance but ...she's lost a lot of blood. That and she's got a broken wrist and some broken ribs.... not to mention all the cuts and bruises." Nathan shook his head "My God who did this to her? I haven't seen anything like this since the slave camps."

Josiah's anger exploded as it shifted from his absentee god to the man who committed the act. He slammed his fist into the wall and screamed "DAMN IT! I'm gonna kill him . . . I'll hunt him down and I'll kill who ever did this to her!"

He repeated his vow between clenched teeth, holding his hands in a fist." I swear to God I'm gonna Kill him!!"

Reverend Morgan watched with mounting despair as he believed Josiah was becoming out of control. He feared he would do something he may later regret, so putting a comforting hand on his friend's shoulder he attempted to head off any evil deeds. "No Josiah. Vengeance shall be the Lord's. It is he who will pass judgment on this evil man . . . it is not for you to administer. You must turn the other cheek my friend and think of your young bride to be now."

Josiah turned and faced the reverend with wild rage flashing in his eyes "NO!" He yelled, his finger pointing at the reverend. "Vengeance WILL BE MINE!!"

With those words Josiah started to storm off, his only thoughts to find and kill the man who had violated the woman he loved and killed her father, his friend.

Nathan caught him by the arm. "Wait. Where are you going?" " I'm going to find who did this and then I'm gonna kill him....slowly." Josiah said with deadly calm. " Now hold up Josiah. Where's the girls family ? She will need someone if . . . when she wakes."

"She has none." Josiah said, his voice softening at the thought of Cheyenne alone. "Her father was killed, I assume, by the same man who attacked her."

"Then she'll need you Josiah. She is alone and will need someone who she knows and loves to be with her now. She needs you Josiah . . . concentrate on that."

Josiah stood there, unable to meet the gaze of Nathan or the reverend. He could not leave Cheyenne, Nathan was right. She needed him and he needed to be with her. What was he thinking leaving her alone in a strange place still so very near death? After what she had been through . . . how could he abandon her now? He silently chastised himself for being so selfish. His vengeance would wait have to wait. Right now all that mattered was Cheyenne.

He turned without a word and walked quietly into his room where Cheyenne lay. The older woman who had helped Nathan gave him a reassuring smile and left the room.

Josiah pulled a chair up next to the bed. He took Cheyenne's hand in his and pressed it to his lips. "Come back to me Anni." He whispered as tears began to form in his eyes once more. "I need you."

Josiah sat in the chair threw the night never letting Cheyenne's unbroken hand out of his.

As the sun began to creep over the rise Josiah felt Cheyenne move. First her fingers, slowly and ever so slightly. Then her eyes fluttered as she fought to open them. Josiah looked at her with anxious hope glowing in his eyes.

"Anni?" He spoke softly.

She moved again, slowly, trying to break free of the weariness that engulfed her. Josiah touched her face gently, caressing it with his hand. For the first time since he had found Cheyenne yesterday, a ray of hope and joy broke through the pain and gloom.

Cheyenne flinched and shrank back from the touch. She was still unaware of where she was or who was touching her. As she opened her eyes and tried desperately to focus on the hazy figure of Josiah fear gripped her. All that would register through her present state was that a man was there . . . maybe one of those men! Her eyes looked wild and frightened as she tried to get away from the man. Her body trembled with fear, and surged with pain as she did.

Josiah moved from his chair to the bed, sitting beside Cheyenne and whispering in a soothing voice, "It's okay . . . its me. It's Josiah. You're safe now and no ones going to hurt you."

Cheyenne stopped squirming and looked at him with eyes of recognition. Tears came rushing forward and her body shook as she sobbed uncontrollably. With the knowledge that she was now away from harm, Cheyenne let her feelings of sorrow and pain pour forth.

Josiah took her in his arms and held her, running his hands through her hair. "Shh" He soothed. "It's all right now. No ones going to hurt you, I promise. I'm here now and I won't let anyone hurt you . . . not ever again. I'll protect you, Anni. I'll take care of you . . . don't cry my Anni. Nothing will ever hurt you again."

Cheyenne continued to sob as she began to remember more clearly what had happened . . . her fathers urgent voice calling her name, the door swinging open, the men, the smell of whiskey, her clothes being torn, and most horrid of all . . . her body being violated

Cheyenne began to experience, all over again, the dirty, shameful feeling of being used by those cruel strangers. She could feel her stomach start to churn and her skin crawled as the memories replayed themselves in her tormented mind. In reaction, Cheyenne pushed Josiah away from her and cowered to the far side of the bed....away from him. Still feeling the searing pain from her body that had not yet began to heal, her eyes were wild with fear as she fought to keep from being touched again...even from the man she loved.

Hurt and confusion clouded Josiah's already exhausted eyes. He watched as Cheyenne began to rub her arms and body, as if she were trying to rub off something from her skin that was covering it.

"It's okay Annie, it's okay." He stood, removing himself from the bed giving Cheyenne the space she seemed so desperate to have. His heart sank. Her pushing him away like that had tore him to his very soul. He tried to tell himself it would be this way for only a little while, that she would be all right again . . . given time. Yet, unbeknownst to Josiah, it was the last time he would be able to hold her.

Josiah went to the door and called for Nathan, trying desperately to keep the hurt he was feeling at bay, not wanting to upset or add to Cheyenne's discomfort.

Cheyenne felt the shame over taking her. She pulled the covers up closer to her, as if for protection, and lay there trembling. She turned from Josiah, not wanting him to look at her. Not wanting to see in his eyes the disgust and pity she was sure that he felt towards her now.

She could not think. Her mind wanting to just shut off, her heart abandoning feelings she could no longer bare to feel. Feelings of love and longing only revolted her now. Marred and made dirty by the gruesome act she had once thought would be so beautiful. Her body hurt with every breath she took. Cheyenne felt sleep calling to her . . . blissful, protective sleep. So she gave in to it welcomingly, wanting to just lay there and let her pain be taken from her. Yes, she thought as she drifted off, I want to sleep . . . and never wake up. I want to die.

Nathan came running through the door hearing Josiah's call. He looked at his friend and saw that worry and hurt clouded the man's face, no matter how Josiah tried to hide it.

Nathan moved over to Cheyenne to check on her. Becoming aware of his presence, she immediately bolted upright and fought to push him away. Terror again filling her eyes and her very soul, Cheyenne tried to ignore the pain shooting through her body. She was still so weak that she could barley move, but her instinct to protect herself would not let her lie still.

Josiah went to her, trying to comfort her but she pushed him away as well. "It's all right Anni." Josiah attempted to reason with her in a soft, comforting voice. "He's a friend and he's here to help you."

Cheyenne could not hear him through the terror that still ruled her. She would not allow anyone to touch her....not ever again.

Nathan spoke calmly and comfortingly. "I promise I won't hurt you Cheyenne. You're safe now. I just need to check your bandages. Will you let me do that?"

Cheyenne looked to Josiah, her eyes searching for answers. Cheyenne knew in her heart she could trust him, that he would not let this man hurt her. Yet the memories of her attack were still fresh in her mind and Cheyenne was wary of strangers. In the end her trust in Josiah won out and let her fear ease. She allowed Nathan to check her wounds, though his every touch made her flinch in shame and disgust.

When Nathan had finished Cheyenne lay there, exhaustion taking over her, once more, and she fell into welcome sleep.

Josiah followed Nathan out the door and shut it behind him quietly. " Will she be all right Nathan?" he asked, concern obvious in his tone.

Nathan Nodded. "She'll live Josiah. As long as infection doesn't set in she should recover fine. She just needs a lot of rest now ..it will take time for her to come to terms with what happened. She'll need your love and understanding." "She'll have anything she needs Nathan, I'll see to that." Josiah looked exhausted.

"You should rest too." Nathan told him putting a comforting hand on his shoulder.

"No," Josiah said sadly. "I still have something to take care of."

"Whatever it is, it can wait," Nathan argued. "You need some rest before you collapse. Besides, what could be so important that it can't wait until later or even tomorrow?"

Josiah looked at his friend with the beginnings of anger starting to show. "I have to bury her father."

Nathan sighed and nodded in understanding and offered, "I'll go with you."

"No." Josiah refused. "I need you to stay with Cheyenne. I trust you to look after her. I have to do this myself."

Reluctantly, Nathan did as Josiah asked and returned to the room where Cheyenne lay sleeping and stayed with her until Josiah's return.

+ + + + + + +

Josiah pulled on the reins as he drove the wagon he had rented up to the cabin, the horses stopping at the command. Josiah hesitated getting out of the wagon. The once beautiful place he had grown to love and enjoy visiting now had taken on a sinister hue.

Every place that had once held pleasant and comforting memories for him were now replaced with horrific images of death, loss and violation. The place where Josiah had told Jacques he loved Cheyenne now served as the site where Jacques had laid dead. The cabin where Josiah first laid eyes on Cheyenne's beautiful face, now the place he had found her beaten and used.

His anger and rage began to surface once more and he summoned all his inner strength to hold it in check. As he found the courage to dismount the wagon, he removed, from the back of the wagon, the wooden casket he had purchased to bury his friend in. As he quickly lowered it on the ground Josiah found he could not look directly at the object.....it was much too painful to do so. Wanting to end the task he had come to do, he fought to push his emotions aside and worked as quickly as he could.

After finally laying the last layer of dirt over his friend Jeaques final resting place, Josiah kneeled and spoke to the spirit of his friend.

"Rest easy now my friend......your journey on this earth is over. I make you this promise.. I will watch over Cheyenne. I will care for her and love her for as long as I live. As for the man who did this," Josiah's voice hardened as he continued, "he is as good as dead. I will hunt him down with my last breath and send him straight to hell. "

Josiah clenched his fists in the newly laid dirt as he spoke, his heart now feeling the sharp need for vengeance. As he rose to his feet Josiah picked up the hunting knife, in it's sheath, he had given his friend on his final visit. Walking solemnly to the cabin anger and pain gripping his very soul as he reached the door and entered the disarrayed cabin.

Cheyenne's blood still stained the floor and Josiah had to turn his head to keep the memory of finding her there from replaying itself again in his mind.

He had come here to retrieve what he thought Cheyenne may want or need from her home so that she would not have to come back here and face the demons he knew lurked here for her. Josiah was not entirely certain what the consequences the bitter homecoming would have had on her and he was not about to find out. At least, Josiah thought to himself, I can save her from that pain.

He went to her room and gathered her belongings, putting them in a pack he found in her room. Then, going into her father's room, he took any items he thought Cheyenne may want. In the corner lay a fringed rifle scabbard. It was empty, but Josiah took it anyway, thinking it would hold some sentimental value for Cheyenne.

As he returned to the main living area, his eyes caught sight of the rifle that still hung above the fire place and he retrieved it, putting it in the leather fringed scabbard. He stooped for a moment, remembering the times he and Jacques had sat there at the fire and talked. The time he and Cheyenne had sat there on the floor as he had taught her to read from the bible and write her name were as vivid in his mind as if it happened only yesterday.

Shaking himself from these painful memories, Josiah started to leave. Thinking he had all Cheyenne would need or want, Josiah turned to leave when his eyes caught site of the music box laying on the floor. He bent to pick it up when he spied something else lying next to it . . . a bible. He immediately recognized it as the one's they often gave out at the mission. Josiah knew it was not the particular one he had taught Cheyenne to read from and he became suspicious. Josiah picked up the discarded bible and opened it's cover. His blood froze in his veins.

He recognized the inscription immediately. It was his own handwriting contained the words of encouragement he had given to Chase Lancer at the mission only a day ago.

"NO!" Josiah let the word rip from his throat, the sound booming like thunder.

He had told Lancer about Cheyenne! He had told him about the cabin! My god...he had caused this. He had lead the man right to Cheyenne and her father ...this was his fault!

Josiah ran out of the cabin and tossed the bible as far as his arms could throw it, screaming out in anger and rage.

"NOOOOO!"

Falling to his knees, Josiah sobbed. It was his fault for being so stupid , so trusting. , he had very nearly lost his love, he had caused the death of his friend his guilt gnawed at him. How would Cheyenne ever forgive him now, how could she ever return his love for her now?

Josiah's sobs turned to anger and uncontrollable rage as he screamed out into the empty air.

"I'll FIND YOU LANCER..I'LL FIND YOU AND I'LL KILL YOU!!!"

After a few more minuets Josiah collected himself and returned putting Cheyenne's things in the wagon, the music box and her fathers knife and scabbard among them. With one last look at his friends newly dug grave he climbed up into the wagon and headed back down to the mission. In his mind he told himself he would never tell Cheyenne of his guilt, for fear of loosing her. He would keep his promise to the spirit of his friend. He would look after Cheyenne......he would care for her and love her for the rest of his, life no matter what.

When she was well enough to travel, they would leave this place of pain and fear. They would start new some where else and when the time came Josiah would have his vengeance. He would find Chase Lancer and he would send him straight to hell . . . .

+ + + + + + +

Josiah returned to the mission, bringing with him the things from the cabin he had gathered for Cheyenne. He hesitated a moment before entering the room, collecting himself as to not alarm Cheyenne by being to upset and angry.

Finally composing himself, he opened the door and found Nathan sitting in the chair waiting for him. Cheyenne was sleeping. Nathan left the chair and stepped up to his friend and spoke in a whisper.

"She's been sleeping off and on all day. Are you all right?" He asked, noticing the distinct change that hung over his friend like a cloud.

Josiah nodded. "I'll be fine as soon as she is well again." His eyes were fixed on Cheyenne sleeping soundly in his bed.

"I take it you finished what you set out to do," Nathan said, noticing the pack and the things Josiah had in his possession.

Josiah gave another short nod. "She'll never have to go back there again," he answered calmly

Nathan gave his friend a sympathetic pat on the back. "Get some rest my friend, you need it as much as she does." With those words, Nathan quietly left the room.

Josiah set the pack down at the side of the bed. He sat down on the floor, next to it, Jacques' knife in his hand and the rifle in its scabbard lying on the floor next to him. He reached up and smoothed away the strand of hair that had fallen around Cheyenne's bruised and blackened eyes. She flinched a bit at the touch but didn't wake. Josiah drew his knees up in front of him and put his arms over them, staring at the knife he still held. Leaning his head back against the wall, he finally fell into sleep.

Cheyenne woke some time later. She turned her head at the flicker of light that emanated from a candle at the bed side and saw Josiah sleeping leaned back against the wall on the floor. She caught site of the knife in his hand. She reached down and took it in her good hand, tears falling as she realized her father must be dead.

She was alone now, she thought. Her mind was less hazy and she began to think on what would happen to her now. Surely there was no hope now for a life with the man she loved. She had been shamed and made dirty by the men who had attacked her, and she found herself wishing they had killed her.

Her eyes fell again on the sleeping Josiah. She wanted him to wake To make her believe there was still hope , but she knew he could not. Not even he could want her now. Her heart felt as if it would break from her chest and she held her fathers knife against her, like a child would do a favorite blanket at bed time, and she cried.

The life she had known was gone. In one instant it had been ripped away from her. All her hopes and dreams were gone now. What did she have left? Nothing but a broken heart and broken dreams. She made a vow there, lying in the bed as she cried clutching her fathers knife. She would never feel again.....never let anyone see her cry. Never let any one lay there hands on her again. She would lock up the love she had felt for Josiah and her father and never let it surface again.

The hurt was too much to bare now that she was dirty. She would show nothing but hate.....she would feel nothing but hate. She cried for the last time until she fell back to sleep.

2 weeks later

Josiah saddled the horse he had ridden from the cabin that fateful day, that still stirred nightmares in not only him, but Cheyenne. He sescrured the saddle bags and their belongings on the back of the saddle along with two bed rolls.

Reverend Morgan came up to him. "Are you sure you would not like to stay longer Josiah? Search your feelings in more depth. This tragedy is still too new for you to make such a hasty decision and Cheyenne could use more rest, I am sure."

Josiah looked at the reverend. The glow and smile his eyes had always held was gone, a dark cloud seem to cover them now and Josiah's good natured, friendly attitude was also gone.

"My decision stands Reverend. I'm leaving and Cheyenne's coming with me. Nathan says she can travel and I need to get her as far from here as I can."

Nathan came from the mission doors and walked up to the two men. " Well, she's healing fine. Just don't go too fast or too far at a time and she should have no problems."

"Thanks Nathan." Josiah said, tightening the sinch on the saddle.

"You know where your heading ?" Nathan asked.

"Nope." Josiah answered flatly.

Cheyenne emerged from the mission doors, dressed in her Buckskin pants and shirt she used to where when helping her father with the trap lines. She still clung to her father's knife in her good hand, the other one was supported by a sling.

She stopped just in the door way, not knowing if she wanted to come out or not. Josiah looked up and a glimmer of brightness shown through his eyes as he looked at her.

Josiah was not the only one who had changed. Cheyenne still had not spoken and her eyes no longer held the sparkle they use to. Though she seemed to trust Josiah to an extent, it was obvious she had no use for anyone else.

Josiah walked up to Cheyenne. "You ready?" He asked.

Cheyenne still could barley look Josiah in the eyes. Her face still held the signs of her attack and she let her hair hang in attempt to cover the bruises. Cheyenne nodded her answered and followed Josiah to the horse.

He carefully lifted her to the back of the saddle where she would ride saying, "Were gonnna have to make do with one horse for a while, until I can get you one." Cheyenne only looked straight ahead.

Nathan smiled at her. "You know," He said in his usual friendly tone, "you can fix a knife sheath in side one of your boots. That knife should fit real nice in there. Easy to hide and easy to grab."

Cheyenne took in what Nathan said but gave no acknowledgment, save for looking at him and then turning back to stare ahead.

"You watch those ribs now, ya here." Nathan went on. "It'll be a long while before they heal and take care you don't put too much pressure on that wrist. It will take a good while before that's healed enough to use it to."

Josiah turned to Nathan and held his hand out. Nathan took it warmly. " You take care now, both of you." He said very seriously

"Thank You Nathan," Josiah said still holding the hand of his friend in a warm hand shake. "Thank you for everything. You saved her life and for that I will be eternally grateful."

Nathan smiled. "You two just take care of each other..... that'll be my thanks."

Josiah nodded. Before he could mount his horse he looked at Reverend Morgan, who stood watching with a tear threatening to come to his eyes as he also took Josiah's hand and shook it." God be with you." Was all he could say.

Josiah let out a sigh, thinking God had all but abandoned him and his Anni. He doubted God would be with them much any more. "Good bye reverend ..and thank you."

With that Josiah mounted his horse and with one last look at his friends, gave the horse a nudge with his heal and turned the horse around. Cheyenne took hold of the back of the saddle, relieved to be leaving this place. She wanted to put as much distance between her and anything that reminded her of her old life as she possibly could.

The End