Realistic or Modern Dreams of Eden (Roleplay Thread)

[Sleipnir]

On May 1st, 1850 Mister Thomas Eckles hereby agrees to furnish good strong wagons and at least three yoke of oxen or horses to each, in order to travel from Independence Missouri, across the plains of Nebraska, first stopping in Fort Kearny just across the river Platte, through Wyoming, across the mountains of Idaho, into Oregon. Mister Eckles will also provide rations in the form of meal, hominy, salt and pepper, bacon, beans, sugar, and flours so that each man may have three pounds of provisions. Each man shall supply his own bag for his linens, plates and utensils, as well as a firearm, ammunition, and powder, as well as whatever else is needed for his family. Mister Eckles will have the privilege of leading the train and shall be required to stop for rest at least once in a week. The trip shall take no longer than six months.

Spoiler: Current Character List

Thomas Eckles, train leader and beneficiary. (Hel)
Katie Holmes-Eckles, his wife. (Hel)
Reid Atwater, predominantly scouting, tracking, and assisting in general bushcraft. (Hawke.)
Michael O'Malley, born Mícheál Ó'Máille, employed for protection from bandits, wildlife, and war parties. Assisting in hunting and general bushcraft at will. (CuChulainn)
Abigail Bell, employed for services as a laundress and assisting Zhong Lian at will in the matter of cooking. (Jaellagirl)
Judas Cloud, predominantly herding cattle alongside; acting translator and liaison to native groups. Assisting in scouting and protection at will. Clear instructions have been provided by Zhong Lian not to allow Cloud to assist in meal preparation except by washing. (Sleipnir)
Phila Gillis, traveling. Assisting in cooking, laundry, and medical services at will. (Lost Echo)
Elwin Gillis, her son, traveling. Assisting in camp maintenance and minor duties as is fit to his age. (Lost Echo)
Zhong Lian, "Pa," employed as camp cook. (Hel)

Additionally travelling,
A scottish woman and her younger brother (To be defined by Sleipnir in the future, most likely),
One or two irish families,
An english family,
A swedish immigrant,
and multiple American travelers

New Characters to be added as needed.

Independence, Missouri. April 30, 1850.
The late day sun cast a golden light over the dusty dirt- and cobblestone- lined streets of the bustling, booming city of Independence. Travelers, cowboys, investors, and townsfolk of all kinds were walking the streets, as the damp air began to cool from the muggy warmth that came before.

The staging area chosen by Thomas Eckles and his wife, Katie Holmes-Eckles, was no exception. A large, spacious area, located not too terribly far from the finer hotels of town, had been selected. Just outside the town, the wagons had been set up like a little city all their own, on dirt and grass where campfires had been made, bedrolls laid out, and small tents pitched by the party members preparing for their journeys. This small town, of course, would disappear come morning -- but for the past several days, it had settled as the final preparations were made for the arduous journey northwest. In the staging area, Thomas himself was preparing to welcome his guests and employees. Loaded wagons stood nearby, and the scent of horses, oxen, and cattle filled the heavy air around the area. It appeared to be a well-supplied space -- there was no shortage of provisions to be seen, nor a shortage of wagons and livestock themselves.

Most of the preparation had been done already: From here, it was time for the final calls, for the last of the provisions to be loaded, and then, first thing in the morning on the following day, departure. With the cattle rounded up and ready to follow the wagon train to act as a food supply, the horses conditioned, the oxen readied, and the firearms loaded, the plunge into the Western Unknown would begin with the sunrise at the train's backs on May the first.

 

[Hel]

Thomas Eckles was accompanied by his wife as he took stock of those who would travel with him on this next great adventure to Oregon. The wagons were arranged in messy lines, small tents filling in spaces here and there. An Irishman, a couple Irish families, an elderly Chinese man, an English family, two Scots, and Swede... the rest were American as best as Thomas could tell. Several eastern families had joined up, and some few individual stragglers. All in all, he surmised, 30 wagons stood ready to push off come first light. Or, he hoped they would be ready come morning.

A great journey would begin soon, one of trial and difficulty to be certain. The promise of free land to those who could claim it was sweet, though, and the call of adventure was never far from Thomas's mind.

Katie stood beside him, her mind silently taking other notes as they'd taken their walk through the staging area. She noted those she'd hired, took count of how many of the foreign men had brought no guns of their own. She noted how much food she could spot in each wagon they passed. Her concerns lay less in the adventure, and more in the logistics. She hoped the rougher men that she'd chosen would protect the train better than the couple of ex soldiers her husband had hired. They'd seen battles, she was certain. 'Still,' she wondered 'just how close to the front lines had they ever risked venturing?'

"Welcome to Independence, friends!" Thomas's booming voice drew Katie's attention back to him, and likely that of any nearby. "Many of you have called this home for the past few days, I'm certain. My name is Thomas Eckles, as I'm certain you're all aware. This is my lovely wife Katie Eckles. I will be leading this train. Through plains and mountains I intend to ensure that we arrive in our new homes safely before the first snowfall. To that end, we will be leaving with first light in the morning.

"Please, use your time this evening to acquaint yourselves with one another, get to know those you'll be traveling with. During the course of this trip it is my hope that we become as one large family. This journey will take months, and in those months we will be required to rely on one another for all of our needs. Over the course of the summer, If you have any questions, or concerns, I will be at the lead. I will be available to assist with any problems that may arise on the road.

"On behalf of both Katie and myself, it is a pleasure to meet you all,"

With those final words, Thomas gave a small bow to those who had been listening. He turned to his wife with a broad smile, all but oblivious to her small complaints at his refusal to include her maiden name when introducing her.

 

[Sleipnir]

In the days since he had arrived, Judas Cloud seemed to spend almost all his time in the saddle.

Sure, he'd come down from that shining gold horse of his for a few minutes at a time to help load supplies up onto wagons or something to the effect, but it seemed almost as if he lived on horseback. He'd disappear frequently late in the afternoon and be gone til the early morning hours, but never did the cattle in his care stray. He'd arrived alongside the cook, Lian, and seemed close to him -- along with any number of vagabonds and cowboys coming and going from town.

And now, as the late afternoon sun shone down, he was once again walking his horse, Sundial, between the wagons and checking in with the various families and travelers among them. He joked and he tipped his hat, he smiled and he laughed with them -- it seemed from the outside, at least, that the arduous journey ahead of them didn't faze him one bit. Perhaps that was the youth in him.

When he heard Thomas begin speaking, though, he stopped and lifted his head to watch the man, straightening up where he sat and leaning against the saddlehorn. He nodded quietly when the little speech ended, then chuckled with a little shake of his head. "One big family," he echoed to himself with a crooked grin. He threw one leg over the side of his horse and slid down off Sundial's back. Then he reached up to scratch the slender, graceful stallion's forehead. "Pleasure to meet us all, he says. You think so, Sundial?" The horse snorted and lifted his head-- clearly, he didn't understand a word Judas said, but he offered his attention nonetheless. "He don't know you well enough to know he ain't gonna like you, huh?" He planted a kiss on the horse's nose all the same, despite his disparaging joke. Then he led him over to one of the nearby wagons, where a second, stockier horse was resting.

Now, taken separately, Julep and Sundial were both graceful and pretty horses -- but to stand them together clearly highlighted Julep's thicker, sturdier looking legs, her bulkier neck and big head. She looked downright muscular next to Sundial, but Judas gave her just as much affection as he did his saddle horse. He pat her shoulders and gave her a kiss just as he had with Sundial, then leaned into the wagon -- the cook's wagon, as it so happened -- to sort through his scant belongings. His gunbelt and revolver, the shotgun he kept in the saddle -- his blankets, his baubles, his dishware and his journal.

Ah, that journal.
He pulled it out and paged through the poetry, stepping back over to Julep's side, then cocked his head and leaned against her shoulder before surveying the bustling scene around him. The families going through their things, packing, preparing. Some gazed out across the wilder places beyond, trying to imagine the unimaginable. He himself in all his travels surely knew that whatever lay beyond the rivers, they couldn't possibly begin to picture. "Well, it should be mighty inspiring, don't you think, Julep?" He turned his head to look at the big mare. Unlike Sundial, she didn't even offer him a glance. "And yet here I am, dry of words. I guess I can't guess what lies out there, either." He sighed and shook his head, then returned to his things to put on his gunbelt and begin pulling out his dishware in preparation for dinner.

 

[Lost Echo]

Phila opened her eyes slowly, the dawn breaking through the window. A glance down confirmed Elwin was still asleep, pressed against her side. Even in rest he clung to her nightgown. Poor child. He was why she was leaving. Mathew’s death had changed them both, but with the way things were now, Phila didn’t think her son would ever recover from the shock. Nor did she think she could. But Elwin hadn’t realized there could be people who harmed others. And to find out with his father. She squeezed him closer with her arm around him. It was as if he was broken, as his faith in the world had broken.

She could have stayed. Their mutual friend, Mr. Bland had promised on that very night, that he would take care of her. And Mathew had always liked Richard too. He was a good man. He was no Quaker, but Phila had found him an honorable man. He was a dear friend. He didn’t understand her need to flee, but still, he’d helped to sell their house. He swore Mathew’s killers would face justice. He hadn’t even protested when Phila bought tickets to Independence. He’d just offered once more to marry her, and simply nodded when she said no. She had to get out of there. She’d prayed and prayed for a solution and God delivered. In the form of Oregon. She’d read much about the free state. It would be good for Elwin.

Shifting, she shook her son awake, smiling at his soft grumbles before reality set back in. His face settled into blankness once more and he climbed out of bed, preparing to dress for the day without complaint. With a sigh to suppress her worry, Phila rose to do the same. They were in one of the nicer hotels in Independence, knowing the extra money would keep them safe from thieves.

~​

Most of their belongings were already packed on their wagon, so the bag Phila shouldered as they made their way downstairs was light. She gave a nod to the innkeeper, her severe mourning clothes a message in and of themselves. With one hand on her son’s head--unnecessary as he held her skirt she navigated the slowly emptying streets to join the families preparing for the trip. As Mr. Eckles greeted the crowd, encouraging them to intermingle, Phila stood still, glancing around. She knew she’d have to be the first to speak, for the families had been respectful of her mourning.

With a sharp inhale for strength, she stepped forward to greet Mrs. Eckles. “Ma’am.” She nodded her head, “I wanted to thank you again that you’ve allowed us to come. I swear we will earn out keep.” Perhaps the matron would be willing to bridge the gap and introduce her to others.

 

[CuChulainn]

Michael surveyed the campsite from a small hill just outside of town. The small, temporary village lay below. He could see the wisps of campfire smoke as the population began to make the evening meals. His horse shuffled behind him as a bracing breeze blew across the small rise.

This was it he thought. No matter what he seemed to do he found himself diving deeper and deeper into this vast landmass. He shook his head and got back to cleaning the barrel of his Sharps rifle. His revolver lay on a small handkerchief on the grass next to him having had the same treatment beforehand.

When all was done he slung the rifle across his back and placed the revolver into his hip holster. He took another look down at the campsite before turning away.

The black horse he now called his own was waiting expectantly. Michael put a hand on her neck and looked into her eyes. They had only been together a short while but they had formed a strong bond, which Michael was surprised at given he was not overly fond of the beasts. He smiled and rubbed her softly before climbing up and leading her back down the hill.

The town of independence formed an almost dramatic backdrop to their village of tents and wagons. One one side the very image of a well to do town, bursting at the seams with new money and enterprise. On the other a site reeking of destitution, no matter how well provisioned it was it wouldn’t shake the image of a travelling camp.

The horse didn’t need any guidance from Michael, she found her way carefully towards the centre of the site. He let out a slight nod at one of the Irish families he had met the night before, and looked towards the others. There were a few former soldiers in the camp, and they made him wary. Were they like him, deserters? The irony of not wanting to trust a deserter to do a job when he himself was one wasn’t lost on him. Either way, he’d need to find out which among them could be trusted and used for keeping watch at night.

His horse came to a stop and he woke from his thoughts. His little tent sat neatly setup, right in the heart of the camp. Right near the main wagons. He must have missed something as he saw the small gathering in front of the Eckles dissipate back into the camp. Sliding off the horse and giving her a pat on the neck he wandered over to see what was going on.

As he arrived he tipped his hat and nodded to Mrs. Eckles. “Ma’m”

 

[Hawke.]

Reid had hardly been seen in camp the past few days, having spent much of his time making final preparations, though he wouldn’t be leading he still acted as a scout, riding ahead to check the terrain and report back any obstacles.

He didn’t have much himself, and what he did have he could carry. He wasn’t planning on seeing this train all the way to Oregon.
It was income, it was a reason to head further west.
The trail leading out of Missouri was in decent condition, with the amount of traffic from wagon trains headed to Oregon as it was getting it was no surprise that it was well packed and fairly easy.
he’d gotten lucky too, finding a ferryman willing to take them across the Missouri at a decent rate. Of course Reid wouldn’t be the one footing that bill.

When he was in camp around the others he was quiet, but helpful. He kept to himself, reading from the old leather-bound Bible he kept or tending to his mule.
He inspected wagons, checking overall condition and making sure that everyone had the supplies they’d need.
From there it was up to them to decide what was really important to them.
The smell of sweat from both man and horse felt almost as heavy as smoke in the air as Henry trotted up the streets, shaking his head to get rid of the flies. Reid was in a hurry to get out of town, it was a temptation, he’d been doing well to resist but he knew it was only a matter of time, a matter of something pushing him over the edge.

And as he walked into camp, and tipped his hat to Katie and Thomas, he saw just the thing that might send him tumbling.
Of course he’d be there, they’d met in passing plenty of times, Reid had chased him but refused to turn him in.
Judas Cloud, the kid, the pain in his ass.
Charming and poetic as he was, Reid knew he was in trouble, as the realization sank in that they’d be on this wagon train together for the next six months.
He nudged Henry, who gave a short, indignant bray and threw his head back at being told to move on from where he’d normally be tied up “Oh, stop that, sour little shit—“ Reid grunted, they were making a little more noise than he’d like there.

 

[Jaellagirl]

Abigail slowly opened her eyes wide open. She was lying on the ground staring up at the simple tarp she used as a cover for the night. It was an old but strong bedlinen, which had had a few holes that were carefully mended and then they waterproofed. She still had the image in mind as they painted it over with that slightly smelly concoction, more than sure it had tar in it but Abigail couldn't say with certainty as the past week if not more had been quite a haze for her.

She thoughtfully traced her finger over the old monogram on the tarp that had become a little unclear under the waterproofing. Everything still reminded her of her home with her uncle. Abigail had been the one to embroider it as she had sown the clothes she was wearing and the bedding she was in. She sighed before rising to a sitting position.

Clumper had poked his head under the tarp and rested his head on top of her legs when she crawled in for a small nap as she had nothing real to do in the place. The rest was well needed for the both of them as they had risen early in the morning to gather themselves for the journey. She slowly pets the head of the beast waking him up gently. "Hello there buddy! Was your nap as good as mine, old boy? I don't think either of us has fully realised the kind of mess we have gotten ourselves into," the girl softly whispered. The horse lifted his head slowly and pulled it out from under the cloth to rise up from the ground and Abigail followed Clumper to the outside.

The sun had moved considerably on from the point she last saw it. Abigail rose up and stretched to get the stiffness out of her muscles that comes along with sleeping on the ground. She looked at her "tent" hard. It was just the tarp pulled at tension from her wagon to the ground on one side. The girl detached it from the ground and rolled it up to store away to take less space.
Soon Mr Eckles spoke to all. He was a fine man all that Abigail could tell and his manner of speaking had so much more finery than she had, even on arrival when she introduced herself as the laundress they hired. Abby wondered how long it would be until she slipped up and people would find out about her parentage and if that were to be the case how much longer would she be allowed to continue with them. Those thoughts were ever-invading. She decided that for the time it was better to keep herself in the background and maybe socialize less so she walked back to Clumper trying to keep her head low and herself out of site besides the old boy needed a good groom right?

 

[Hel]

As Thomas's short speech drew to a close, many who had stopped to listen turned to go back to their own small lives. Thomas watched as most kept within their own family units or small groups they'd previously established. A few approached him to speak, and introduce themselves, and he was more than happy to talk with them. Katie watched as one approached her as well- the widow who she'd convinced her husband to allow to join. She graced Philla with a smile- an effort to be sure on her always-downturned lips.

"Of course, I'm certain that you will. I feel you and your son both will be a pleasure to have with us." Katie glanced towards the approaching Irishman as she finished her sentence, nodding her head towards him as he approached.

"Ma'am" He offered, with a tip of his hat

"Mister Ó'Máille" She returned, "You just missed my husbands welcome. No great loss I assure you.... Philla, this is Micheal Ó'Máille, he'll be helping to ensure our safety as we travel west. Have the two of you been acquainted yet?"

---

Zhong Lian was focused on arranging the pots and pans in his chuck wagon as he heard Judas arrive and begin talking to himself. The younger man tended to his horses before sitting down to investigate his journal, and Lian wondered if Judas had even noticed him there at all. As he turned his eyes towards the rest of the small wagon city he noticed a familiar face on a mule.

"Judas... Don't look now, but I spy a familiar face you may be interested to see." Pa said, before turning back to focus on his own work.

 

[Sleipnir]

Judas looked up the moment he heard the bray of a mule behind him. And then he heard the voice. Based on the big, crooked grin that spread across his face, he knew full well who was on that mule before Lian spoke.

He turned his head then to give Lian that grin, and nodded eagerly. "I think you're right, pa," he replied with a cheerful tone -- a familiar one for Lian, a tone that indicated that whatever he did next was going to be trouble. "I couldn't be happier with that."

He turned then and found Reid and Henry. He cocked his head and shoved his hands in his pockets, then he wandered over with all the grace in the world and a feminine swing to his step. He stopped in front of Henry and gave the mule a disappointed took. "Oh, you ain't out here givin' your man problems, are you, old boy?" he asked him, with a playful tone that didn't match his expression. Then he looked up at Reid. "What are you doin' hangin' around on my wagon train, anyway, Reid? You smell dinner cookin' and had to come find the best meal in town? You didn't come lookin' for me again, did you? I might just start thinkin' you like me or somethin'."

 

[Lost Echo]

The woman smiled in return, glancing down at her son to see his reaction, but he was switching sides, one hand grasping the opposite side of her skirt before the other released. Phila followed his gaze, sighing as a man dismounted from his horse and neared them. Elwin evidently understood that men killed his father, he just couldn’t be discerning in which ones were violent and which were not. Though she herself didn’t know either. She’d thought Mathew had more friends than enemies in their town.

Still, she gave the newcomer a smile, pleased that Mrs Eckles had started the introduction. “I don’t believe we have.” She offered her hand, the other running her fingers through Elwin’s hair comfortingly. “I’m Phila Gillis. I pray that trouble avoids us when it can, but I fear we’re going to be thankful for your help before the trip is through.” Looking down at her son she tugged him in front of her, wrapping an arm around him to let him feel safe. “This is my son, Elwin.” She nudged him to say something. “He’s quiet, but a good boy.”

~​

Elwin knew they were leaving. Home was gone. It wasn’t safe anymore. Mr. Bland had promised those who’d hurt Pa were gonna face justice. But Elwin didn’t really understand what that was. How would it make things right? And if it did make it right, why’d they have to leave?

Ma said they were going someplace safe. But he’d heard Grandpa arguing that it wasn’t safe that night they’d stayed with them. And now this man was supposed to keep them safe? Elwin thought he sounded different than the men who’d killed Pa, but from one word he couldn’t tell. As his mother pulled him forward, he nodded his head in greeting but didn’t speak.

 

[CuChulainn]

Michael chuckled to himself at the comment on Mr Eckles speech.

“Well ma’am your husband no doubt is a nice man but he sort of seems a little naive about the road ahead” Michael stopped himself, he shouldn’t have been so rude. Certainly not to his benefactors. “Pardon me saying ma’am, that’s not my place”.

Embarrassed, he turned to the woman introducing herself. For a moment he didn’t know how to react to her outstretched hand. He was not versed in the customs of the people here and their expectations of him. Was she someone of importance, did that matter? Shit he thought, and realised that his thinking had gone on too long. Awkwardly micheal reached out and clasped her hand with both of his. “It’s a pleasure to meet you ma’am”. Looking down at his hands around hers he panicked at the sight and quickly withdrew them to avoid further embarrassment. He didn't know why but in that moment he felt like the uncooth peasant boy that he knew deep down he was. You damned idiot. He could feel his face and cheeks going red and he tried quickly to move the topic on.

His eyes were drawn down to the little boy hiding behind her skirts as she introduced them. Michael gave an awkward, half wave, half salute to the little boy. “Hello Mister Elwin sir. It’s a pleasure to meet you”.

Michael wasn’t sure if he had scared the boy even more or what the case was but he doubted he had left a good impression. Without realising he blushed again and fiddled clumsily with the hat he now held in both hands. Before making a total ass of himself he tried to divert the attention away from him and talk about something else, he turned to Mrs Holmes-Eckles.

“The safety of the caravan is actually what I came to discuss Ma’am. I’d like to start posting a watch from tonight, all the men and older boys should be able. And I’d like to send out scouts tonight too. Maybe I’m being paranoid but it seems to me like if I were going to rob a caravan the first few days out on the journey would be the easiest time to do it. Feels to me like we’ve already announced well enough that a nice soft, and if you don’t mind me saying ma’am, well funded caravan is leaving from this town soon.”

Michael stopped and scratched at his beard. Perhaps he should’ve waited to say this, outside the earshot of the young woman and her boy. He shook his head again and cursed himself. Looking at her and the boy he nodded his head apologetically. “Sorry ma’am if I scared you or your boy”

 

[Hawke.]

“Last I checked,” Reid started, swinging his leg over Henry as he dismounted “This wagon train was bein’ lead by Thomas, not you. Don’t think anybody in their right mind would let you lead a wagon train.” He landed on the ground a bit more heavily than he’d intended. He stood quite a bit taller than Judas, and one could guess just by the look he was giving the shorter man, there was some sort of history here.
“And there’d be somethin’ wrong with me if I came lookin’ for you, Miss Katie was the one who hired me…What name are you goin’ by this time?” It was different every time, Reid wasn’t really sure he had one, he wasn’t even sure where he’d come from, or if he’d just sprung up from the ground like weed. “I didn’t come looking for dinner, but if you’re offerin’… so long as you didn’t cook it.”

 

[Jaellagirl]

Abigail walked hastily towards her waggon weaving in-between people who were intermingling. She passed all kinds of people some who looked like they belonged on a horse, others who looked like they had never spent time outside their hometown like herself. Part of her wanted to stop and talk to people as was suggested but the other part of her urged her to move on and it was currently winning. It would most likely be that way as long as she had anything else to distract herself.

She reached her own little campsite where Clumper nibbled on whatever he could find. "Hey, buddy! They just welcomed all the people who had came and told us to mingle but I think it would be better not as the less they know about me the better it is," Abigail explained to the horse who had perked up his ears but still wandered around a little. She looked around a little in her belonging which in all fairness were not much to find the brush. Clumper looked at Abigail only to snort quietly and walk farther from her indicating he didn't wish to be brushed right now.

"Oh don't walk away! If you do I will have to go find something else to do and I really don't want to," she whimpered a little before sighing and butting down the brush. Abigail wished to have something to do so she could convince herself to have a reason not to socialize. Now that she had none thinking about all the people she passed was taking over her mind and especially was one cart that had pots, pans and whatever else attached to it. Abigail thought that it might be a good place to make acquaintances as she knew how to cook or well as well as was needed in his uncle's house. Besides if she ended up befriending a cook it might have some perks for the duration of the trip.

Abigail made her way over to the wagon and hear from quite a bit away the sound of all the pots and pans being moved around. She peeked around a little to find a man busy organizing it all. He was older looking, foreign man but he seemed nice enough to approach.. "Hello, mister! I am Abigail Bell. I will be the laundress for the duration of the trip," she said with a curtsy: "I just wished to make my acquaintance and maybe find another kindred spirit. Do you need any help for the time being?"

 

[Hel]

Pa watched as the young man approached, a shine in his eyes despite the fact a smile only barely tugged at his lips. They bickered, but he'd be damned if the two didn't enjoy one another's company, secretly. He continued to make a show of busying himself at the back of the wagon, and listened as they spoke. He was going to cut in at the mention of food, but before he could he was startled by a woman's voice introducing herself. Pa figured that he must have been so busy eavesdropping that he missed her approach.

"Abigail? It's a pleasure to meet you Abigail. Most folks call me Lian, but some simply call me Pa -which is just as well." Pa said. As he introduced himself he held his hands in front of his chest, left clasped over right, and offered a small bow of the head before dropping them, and extending his left hand in an offer for a handshake. "As for your offer of help, I would never turn away idle hands. Right now I am getting all of the pots and pans and other kitchen bobbles organized back in the cart. I wouldn't want anyone walking off with them before we leave in the morning. Perhaps you could take over, let me rest my feet a moment?"

---

Katie gave a polite silence in response to Michaels initial comment. Agreeing with his sentiments out loud did no one any flavors, and it worried her that her husbands naiveté was quite so obvious to those who knew better what lay ahead of them. The conversation quickly moved on to Phila, Elwin, and Michael introducing themselves to one another. Katie couldn't help but notice how timid Elwin, Between the mourning attire and the threat of such a long journey maybe that was to be expected. Children had never been her strong suite, though, so it was just as likely shyness was simply his nature.

Her attention was quickly drawn back to Michael when his comments were once again directed towards her. He made good points, and while her husband never would she had to admit that Thomas had certainly advertised a target to the more disreputable folks in town. "I couldn't agree more, that is an excellent idea, Mr. Ó'Máille. Phila, Elwin, if you'll both excuse us I'm going to introduce Mr. Ó'Máille to a few of the other men who'll be helping to keep us all safe. You're both welcome to tag along if you've an interest in meeting them as well, of course."

With their response, Katie quickly scanned the nearby wagons to find the horse she was looking for. A shimmering, golden horse with a frame that looked fast helped her to find at least one of those she intended to introduce Michael to. She lead Michael and the others - if they chose to follow - towards the chuck wagon. Along the way, there were a handful of men and boys who she called over to join them. No introductions were made just yet, but she did let them know that they would be discussing a watch. As she arrived to where Sundial was, she was glad to see that Judas and Reid seemed to have already met.

"Unless you've enough of your dinner leftover to share, I'd suggest you wait on that particular offer. Mr. Atwater, Cloud, this is Micheal Ó'Máille. He was hired on to keep us safe, and has a few ideas of how he might do that starting tonight. Mr. Ó'Máille, this is Reid Atwater, and Judas Cloud. I thought I might introduce you to them first as... capable hands. Judas's priority will be our cattle, of course, but I'm sure if you ask a hand will be lent. Reid will often be scouting, but when he isn't I expect that he'll be one you want to keep with you as well." Katie gestured as she introduced each man that had gathered. Three of them were a few of the ex-soldiers her husband had hired on, but others were her own hires, like the three of them. She was careful never to explicitly say that she'd hired any of them, but to those who knew she did any of the hiring she hoped the message was conveyed well enough. There were other men in the caravan who she hadn't gathered- some were busy sharing stories with her husband, while many others she simply hadn't gone out of her way to bring over.

As she finished her introductions, she looked to Michael and addressed him again. "I hope these are enough to start your watches, there are others around who can be pulled as needed, of course, as well. It is our expectation that everyone contribute over the course of this journey. If any of you run into any trouble with that, please do let me... or my husband, know?"

 

[Lost Echo]

Phila waited patiently, her hand outstretched as if it was normal for one to hesitate before taking another’s hand. Her face was calm and when he covered her hand between the two of his, she merely lifted her second one from Elwin’s head and enclosed his larger one between her own. Then she shook firmly once, allowing him to withdraw immediately after. At no point did she imply this was unusual, though it was for her. She merely assumed it must be the custom of his people, for though she did not know his origins, she knew they were not here. “The pleasure is mine Mr. O’Malley” she imitated the name as best she could, but knew immediately it was not correct, “Begging your pardon, sir,” she added in apology, meaning no offense.

Still she smiled as he greeted her son, pride evidently on her face. Even if Elwin’s response was merely another nod, it was an improvement. For the first few days he had refused to acknowledge anyone but her. She wrapped her arm around him, pulling him against her in reward, allowing the conversation to shift to Mrs. Holmes-Eckles.

She continued to listen, frowning but unable to disagree. Katie was wise indeed to hire this man. God had blessed them. Her face cleared when Michael drew the attention back on her, and she shook her head firmly. “Elwin and I have learned the harsh lessons of the Devil’s work before. While we pray for safety, we will not hide in ignorance.” Her voice was stern, like a teacher to a child. “Ignorance is the Devil’s playground.” Then she turned to nod at Katie, giving the obviously embarrassed man a break, and adding, “God led us to the right caravan if all of Mrs. Holmes-Eckles’ hires are as capable.” She gave the credit to the woman, understanding that he’d come to the one who hired him. The mild insult against her husband helped confirm it. A part of her felt that her husband would be pleased with her choice.

She held back a moment as the pair went off, squatting down to be at Elwin’s level staightening his unwrinkled clothes. “There will likely be many things that are scary on this trip, but it’ll take us to a good home. I meant what I said, God has sent people like Mr. O’Malley to keep us safe.” Brushing off the dust of the streets from his britches, she stood once more and picked him up, balancing him on her hip. “I want you to meet all of the hires. That way you can know who to turn to if something happens and you’re not with me.” She sighed as her son wrapped his arms around her neck and patted his back. “It is best to be prepared, Elwin, before something happens.”

She followed the path the others set, coming up as Katie spoke of one’s priority of the cattle and the other, Reid’s focus on scouting. As the woman went over the rest of the group’s names, Phila whispered in Elwin’s ear, “I want you to focus on the first three men. Look for them first” As she guessed, though perhaps it was merely a hope, that Mrs. Holmes-Eckles had hired them as well. The woman had a good head on her shoulders. Still, as an excuse to Elwin, so he wouldn’t fear the others, “There are too many to keep track of in an emergency. You should always be able to find Mrs. Eckles, me or one of those three.” She merely kissed his forehead when he pulled back to frown at her, perhaps not trusting that was all she thought. Perhaps still doubtful he’d ever leave her side. She did not know, but let it pass.

 

[Sleipnir]

Judas watched Reid with that crooked, mischief-laden grin as he swung down off his mule's back and stayed right where he was with his hip cocked and one hand hooked in his pocket. He opened his mouth and prepared to reply when Reid asked what his name was this time -- but it was just then that Katie's voice cut in, and there she was when he looked up. He'd been so preoccupied with Reid that he'd failed to even notice her approach, with both another man and a woman with her son in tow.

He gave Katie a more subdued smile and a nod, and when she introduced him to the other man -- Michael, it seemed -- she used his full chosen name. He looked back at Reid with that same self-satisfied grin and gestured to her. There's your answer, is what the gesture more or less said: He was Judas Cloud. It would be the first time Reid ever got the name Judas truly felt was his. He turned a crooked, welcoming smile to Michael, too, and reached up to flip the brim of his hat in a quick greeting. "Watches," he echoed with a nod. "Lookin' out for trouble, are we--? You can count me in on that; there's nothin' my best friend Reid here and I like better than trouble." He couldn't know for sure just then what kind of man this was-- he knew only that Michael had the name of an immigrant, and anything beyond that was a mystery to be seen. But, based on the fact that he'd taken it upon himself to suggest taking watches, perhaps he had some experience with matters such as security.

He threw a glance over to Phila and Edwin then, quickly taking a note of both their presence -- and the styling of their clothes. It took little more than a short look to know enough of their story. Sure, the details were unclear -- what had befallen the husband, what unfortunate reality pushed this woman to risk everything to take her little boy West -- but it was enough. "...And I'm sure the good Lord knows there's plenty of us who would rather have folks like that between them and the trouble. More than happy to serve as the barbed wire to keep the foxes out of the henhouse as it's needed." He nodded to her as he spoke, and though his tone was firm and grounded, he still maintained that slight grin, like trouble was still on his mind.

 

[Jaellagirl]

The old man introduced himself and offered a hand to shake which would have been rude to turn down so she shook it with eagerness. He was nice and sounded so kind maybe a bit too much so but it was a relief to Abigail and as such all but good. Mr.Lian's mannerisms seemed a little odd to her but she didn't mind it much as Abigail was sure he had travelled the world and she knew better than to assume everyone acted the same. Maybe by the time this little journey ended, she wouldn't even recognize her former self. She hoped that part of it would be due to the fact that she had found someone to share her life with but that was just a hope.

"Of course Mr. Lian! A good cookware in this economy can be more of value than gold so it would be a shame if any of it were to be taken. Not to mention that the food could suffer," she said while taking some of the things to take them inside the cart. She peeked inside only to be a little confused about where to put them. "I am sorry Mr. Lian could you tell me where to put the stuff as I don't quite know the setup?"

Abigail quite liked to have something familiar to do as being idle never suited her much. She picked up a piece of equipment after another.
"So Mr. Lian if I may ask how did you end up well here in Missouri? You look like a man who seeks more adventure than this small place"

 

[Hawke.]

Reid gave Judas a look, when had he ever implied that they were best friends? “…I can take a watch, yeah. Just let me know when and I’ll help you if I can. Nice to meet you Michael.” Reid nodded, placing a hand on Henry’s side. “And don’t worry, I don’t like trouble nearly as much as Judas wants you to think. He’s the one you wanna look out for really.”
He turned to Katie then, “I’ve got a man to ferry us across the river, it’ll take some time, he can’t take all the wagons at once, but it’s gonna be faster than tryin’ to find a place to cross.” Reid’s voice was soft, a little gravelly with an accent from somewhere in the southern territories. He didn’t often seem to have much to say, especially to people he wasn’t quite sure of yet, and most of these people he’d hardly even met just yet.

 

[CuChulainn]

Michael smiled at Phila, he felt intensely awkward but if she felt scorned or insulted she showed no signs of it, he relaxed a little and settled. “No need for pardons ma’am” He smiled. As she complimented his ability he blushed, nodded, and scratched his beard but said nothing. He feared saying something foolish and opted to say nothing at all. He took another small glance at the boy and smiled before turning back to Mrs Eckles.

“Sounds good ma’am, lead the way.”

They meandered through the camp a short distance. He noted the huge variation in the types of person on the trip. He couldn’t help but feel that some would prove to be more of a burden when times inevitably got tough, but he had no right to deny them the opportunity he was also taking.

Finally they reached their destination, a few men huddled, while two chatted. Mrs Eckles clearly had a better relationship with two of the men simply by the way she talked to them. He’d remember that. Michael found it interesting that there seemed to be such a distinction at all; he had assumed that the hiring was a joint venture between the couple.

Michael nodded to the two men, and looked to the man Reid, he thought that’s what Mrs. Eckles called him anyway. “Please to meet you sir, although I think your eyes would be wasted on watch duty if you’re a capable scout. Better to have you out in the field or resting if not. Far be it from me to tell you how to do your job, if there're men here who you think capable of riding a horse well and have a notion of what to be looking for best you lead them and let me know when something odd is about.”

Michael had never intended to be a leader of anyone, he certainly didn’t want anyone here to feel like he had taken a station above that of which he deserved. The last thing he wanted was to sow discord amongst others. He looked back to Mrs. Eckles. “Of course ma’am, although I’m sure I can persuade people. One way or another.”

He nodded to the folks gathered, noticing that Mrs Phila had also appeared. He nodded to her and smiled at the young boy. Then told the three others Mrs Eckles had mentioned to follow him. He guessed some, or all of the three were ex-soldiers from their build. Or farmers perhaps.

“Ok then. I need all of your names, any skills you have, and if you’re traveling with family or not.”

 

[Hel]

Katie nodded in response to Reid, and to Michael. "I'll confer with my husband, but this early in the journey... my vote will be to take he ferry while we can." She watched the group who'd gathered as Michael took the lead. 'Good' She thought, 'Comfortable with a task of authority, but doesn't demand it.' She nodded, and as the men replied to Michael's questions, she took the moment bid a goodnight to those who'd gathered. "With that, I'll be rejoining my husband. I'm sure he means to set out at first light, and will be wanting to turn in somewhat soon. Goodnight, gentleman. Don't be afraid to find us if any issues arise."

And with that, Mrs. Holmes-Eckles left the men to their planning. As she made her way back she found her husband with a different group- one of the families. He was speaking boisterously and there was laughter. She could only figure the man was telling stories again. After a moment to herself, she put on a smile and returned to Thomas's side.

---

"You're a smart woman," Lian said with a nod as he found a seat for himself near to where Abigail took over sorting and storing the freshly washed dishes. He took a moment to find his way to the ground, his joints ached enough when he found a proper chair to sit in these days. He relaxed in the shade of the wagon, and when Abigail asked for instructions he was more than happy to give direction from where he was resting, gesturing as necessary to show her where everything goes. After a while, when Abigail spoke up again, Pa listened, and paused a moment before giving his reply.

"The story of how I got to Missouri is a very long one, perhaps I'll have had time to tell it by the time we make it to the Oregon Territory." He gave a smile with his answer. "Though to say I seek adventure would be incorrect. If I had my choice, I would still be in Guangdong working a modest life... but what of you? What drives you to seek the great journey west?"

 

[Lost Echo]

Shifting the five year old on her hip, Phila nodded solemnly at the smaller man in contrast to his grin. “We’ll be grateful for your protection.” God willing, this Judas wouldn’t get much of what he liked. But at least he chose a good outlet for his apparent troublemaking ways. She considered retracting what she’d said to Elwin, excluding the man, but in an emergency the boy needed options.

She stayed quiet, approving of the use of a ferry to cross the river. She’d never been that far, but she’d heard stories of the escaped slaves forging rivers. Often they were lucky to make it across with their lives, everything else washed away. She’d listened to those tales as a small child, fearing the strong current of any river.

As the group began introducing themselves to Mr. O’Malley, Phila withdrew. She gave a nod to Mrs. Holmes-Eckles before disappearing between one wagon and the next. She kept as silent as her son as she made her way to their home for the next few months. Giving a nod to an odd pair, a young girl, likely younger than herself and an older foreign man, the woman seeming to be searching for something amongst the dishes, she passed by without stopping though she knew she ought to help.

Had she become as isolated as her son without realizing it? Though the introductions were straightforward, without anyone asking hard questions, Phila was tired. She’d only spoken with her parents and Richard in the past few weeks. She trusted Madam Holmes-Eckles, but branching that trust out to those men, strangers who deserved no fear from her, was more difficult than she expected. Still, adjusting Elwin on her hip once more, she swore to herself to be strong. Her parents might disagree, but leaving was best for them. With Mr. Bland’s attempts for justice just starting, she couldn’t go out in the town without wondering where they there? Did they just watch? Or are their hands soaked in her husband’s blood.

Elwin tugged at her hair. Ah. She was about to pass their wagon. Kissing his temple in thanks (and quite proud that the boy already knew what was theirs) she set him down on the cross of the doubletree and the falling tongue. “Alright, we’ll get our bedrolls out. It’ll be the first of many nights like this, but we’ll adjust.” Stepping up onto the doubletree, she peeked into the wagon. The bedrolls were easily accessible, but Phila hesitated on the tent. It was a warm night, and she was already tired. Glancing upward, she debated the weather. Perhaps, it would be best. Just in case. It would be best to not start bad habits already.

Pulling out the tent was ungraceful to say the least. Glancing at Elwin, she exaggerated her movements, hoping for a smile, if not a laugh. When she stumbled off the wood, the tent within her arms, she took a moment to steady herself before declaring, “Victory!” Her grin faltered at her son’s worried face, but just softened into a smile. “I’m fine. I was just being silly.”

Elwin nodded solemnly. “Come help me put this tent together.” She offered a hand to help him down, but the five year old, in a burst of independence, made the jump on his own, not even falling to his knees. She ruffled his hair instead.

 

[Jaellagirl]

She kept working cheerfully and starting to look around while waiting for the man's answer making eye contact with a woman who had a child clinging to her skirt. The woman gave her a friendly nod as she shot a beaming smile back to her.

The old man said that the story was long and better told on the trail but no matter how sweet of a smile he gave she knew that whatever the reason had been it had hurt like it hurt her to think about her mother. He was curious and rightfully so, asking about her past but the question made a clump rise to Abigail's throat. This was what she feared most. Abigail was sure that the previous smile that was plastered on her face disappeared at a moment's notice. She turned her face to face the other way in case any tears left her eyes. Abigail gathered herself a little trying to figure out if to lie or tell the truth. If she were to lie if it were to come out she was more than sure she would be kicked from the wagon like a spoiled apple from the lot to stop the rotting. She turned to the old man again and spoke: "The people who wanted me couldn't raise me and those who did raise me could not give me the care one gives to their own flesh. So life gave me a choice between suffering in silence as I grew old without a true family of my own or to move and try to find even a shard of happiness."

Abigail turned back to her work but this time with less pep in her step and more monotone sharp movements as her mind was filled with dark thoughts about her making her way all the way to Oregon but it having no improvement of life and being forced into the same line of work as her mother starting the cycle anew. She looked longingly into the distance seeing all the other people around and seeing quite a few who seemed to have found their match and hoping there was someone out there for her too.