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WAGON MASTER~~CONCLUSION
This is the conclusion of 'Wagon Master'.
When we last left our story, the train had set out from the mission to continue toward California. A horrific thunder and lightening storm had struck the camp, and some wagons are burning...
This is the conclusion of 'Wagon Master'.
When we last left our story, the train had set out from the mission to continue toward California. A horrific thunder and lightening storm had struck the camp, and some wagons are burning...
Everyone stood frozen to the spot, no one could react, not even Nathan. He could not bear another death on his already tortured conscience. His brain briefly registered his thought...yes, he cared deeply for Katie.
He thought back to his young bride Alice, how he callously left her all alone in an insulated cabin, while he was out chasing the 'golden fleece', he was infected with the gold fever, he gave no thought to her well-being or safety, all that mattered was panning for gold, trying to get rich.
Not again...he thought firmly to himself, no more fatalities! Nathan collected his wits and reacted quickly. "Jeb! Run and get some of the water barrels, we will use the water to put out the fire, Lucas, get the horses further away from the fire and secure them, Callahan! Get help and move the other wagons away from this one!"
Nathan ran toward the wagon and tried to climb in the back. "Katie!! Seamus!!" he yelled.
The smoke was thick and black; he could not see inside the wagon, the canvas was almost burned completely away. Katie came running as she soon as heard the screams. She saw her wagon was aflame, and she saw Nathan trying to climb in the back. "Nathan, Nathan!!" she screamed.
Morgan Harding grabbed Nathan by the back of his shirt and pulled him from the wagon and pointed toward Katie running toward them. "She's alright! Look there!" Morgan cried over the roar of the flames. Katie ran into his arms. "I'm here, we're safe, Seamus and I were visiting with Dorothy and Cheri-Sue at their camp!"
Nathan buried his head in her shoulder. "Thank the Lord," he whispered. "I couldn't bear it if anything happened to you...or Seamus."
Katie hugged Nathan close. He cares about me! Her heart soared. It was a beginning; she had been in agony ever since they last spoke, the heated argument foremost in her mind. Saints preserve us, I love him so, Katie thought to herself. She felt tears forming in her eyes and she held him close. She did not want to let go. "You care for me..." she whispered in his ear.
Nathan could say nothing; he was too choked up to speak. He did however nod slowly.
Katie hugged tighter. She would not press him, not yet at any rate. But this small admission did give her hope. The next morning Katie went over to inspect the smouldering remains of their wagon. It was damaged beyond repair, the wood charred, the wheels cracked and useless. They had lost their supplies and personal items. Worry and despair were clearly etched on her face, how would she and Seamus ever be able to settle in California now?
Their Da's dream of a ranch seemed to be smouldering with the wagon... Jeb walked up to Katie. "Get that worried look off your face lass..." Jeb teased. "I have a proposal for you. I take it you and your brother still want to go to California?"
"Aye..." Katie whispered.
"When we get to Fort Hall, I will make arrangements for some money for you. It's not charity; it's a loan. I expect to get paid back. I am investing in your ranch, understand?"
Katie felt her heart soar. "Oh Jeb, if you only knew what this meant to me..." She hugged him impulsively. "You are a grand man Jeb! You won't be sorry! We will make the ranch a success, Seamus and I! Are you sure you want to do this?"
Jeb laughed jovially. "It's only money. My wages sit in a bank, better they be put to constructive use. By the time you reach Fort Bridger, the money will be there for you, I have faith in you Katie."
Nathan stood and watched, his heart ached to see Katie seeking solace from another man. He did not know what was discussed, but he was feeling envious once again. That night, a chill was hanging in the air, they were heading into higher elevations, Lucinda tried to warm herself by the fire. Corey watched his 'sister' closely. He had to admit she was pulling her weight, she was not afraid of hard work. But they had hardly exchanged any type of meaningful conversation since they pulled out of Fort Halleck. He still felt uneasy in her presence, he could not get past the fact she was saloon trash, and he did not like the way she was paying attention to Morgan Harding. He and Morgan had become friends, and he did not want to see his friend sully himself on such a woman.
"Good evening Corey." Lucinda said warmly. "Did you have your supper? I saved you some, I knew you were busy attending Mrs. Thompson."
"I ate, thank you." he said formally.
"I took some over to Morgan, he does like my stew. When he was out scouting this morning he shot a couple of sage hens, we will roast them tomorrow." She smiled. Corey cleared his throat and smiled weakly. "Perhaps you should not be paying such attention to Morgan. He is going through a rough patch, his family left him. I don't think he needs the attentions of a woman such as yourself at this point."
Lucinda's eyes narrowed. "What are you implying, Mr. Callahan? 'Woman such as yourself?' Explain your meaning, sir!" "You know exactly what I mean, a woman with loose morals. A saloon trollop..." Corey was sorry he spoke the words as soon as he said them, for a look of such hurt and pain crossed Lucinda's face. Her eyes welled up, but the tears did not spill over.
"I see, so that is what you think of me. Would it do any good to tell you I only worked there to earn good, honest money? I served drinks and waited on tables Mr. Callahan, nothing more!" She looked into his face. "I can see you don't believe me, fine, think what you want."
Lucinda walked away before Corey could reply. The import of his hurtful words cut her deep. How could he think such a thing? Just because what she wore and where she worked, people think the worst!
The fact was, Lucinda had never been with a man, only been kissed twice, and that was back in Kentucky when she was 16.
She wiped away a few wayward tears, why did it hurt so?
Why was Corey's opinion so important to her? A few days later, Nathan walked up to Lucas, a frustrated scowl on his face.
"What burr is under your saddle?" Lucas chuckled. "Must be concerning Katie O'Toole. MacIntyre, you are the most stubborn man I ever met! Just admit what you feel!"
"I can't!" Nathan growled. "Not as long as I am heading this wagon train! I have too big a responsibility, I can't afford to get sidelined by affairs of the heart!"
"For God's sake man, we are 2/3 of the way there...what are you waiting for? It is plain to everyone your feelings for each other. Your reaction when you thought she was in that burning wagon said it all!" Lucas chortled. The two men sat at the table. They were actually getting along a lot better then at the first of the trip, Nathan was wrong about Lucas' character, maybe he has been wrong about a lot of things...
"Nathan, are you going to lead wagon trains the rest of your days? What are you going to do when the transcontinental railway is finished? Your kind will become a thing of the past. There will be no need for wagon trains anymore, you know this." Lucas said in a quiet steady voice.
Nathan did not speak for several minutes. "I am aware of it...you are not telling me anything I don't already know." "Then take that beautiful Irish girl who seems to love you in spite of your many faults, and make a life together. You got to put your past behind you, whatever it is. I know that haunted look in your eyes. I had it myself. But loving Dorothy has changed everything. Loving someone can for you too." Lucas advised.
Nathan took slow bites of his corndodger and reflected on Lucas words. "When did you become so blasted smart?" Nathan grumbled. "I will think on what you said." Meanwhile across the camp: "Ah Morgan there you are, I wonder if I may discuss a delicate matter with you." Corey inquired.
Morgan raised an eyebrow. "What about?"
"It concerns my...ah...sister, I thought I should warn you she has a dodgy past, not really the type of woman any decent man would want to get tangled up with, thought I would warn you to stay clear, for your own good." Morgan's mouth fell open. "What kind of brother are you? Or man for that matter! To speak ill of such a fine woman! Why, if it weren't for Lucinda, I would still be drowning in self-pity! If it was any of your business, and it is not, I am not the least bit interested in Lucinda except as a friend, and she feels the same about me! What has got into you? So she worked at a saloon, so what? For a so-called educated man, you are dumber than a bag of hammers!" Morgan declared in a disgusted tone.
He left Corey standing, flabbergasted and feeling just a little ashamed. Cheri-Sue and Seamus have grown even closer these past weeks, they were always together, and it did not go unnoticed by the rest of the wagon train.
Dorothy was concerned for her daughter, she will be crushed when everyone goes their separate ways when they reach Sutter's Fort, or Sacramento City as it is called now. The young couple was discussing their dilemma, Seamus stated, "I will try and talk Katie into buying land near you and your mother and Mr. Tanner. Do you know where you are going to settle yet?"
Cheri-Sue shrugged. "I am not sure, Lucas mentioned some land a little south of Sutter's Fort in 'Knights Ferry', I will try and find out." "I don't want to be parted from you, Cheri lass, not ever." Seamus pulled Cheri-Sue in for a kiss, it was the first one for both of them, it was gentle and sweet, but filled with deep feeling.
Cheri-Sue held her breath, how she adored Seamus, she would do everything she could to make sure they stayed together. A day later, Sister Veronica came to where the men were talking around the campfire. "Excuse me, Dr. Callahan, could you come look in on Sister Mary Frances? She is really not well. I am very worried."
Corey rose from his seat. "Of course sister, I will come at once."
The other men exchanged looks of concern. After some time, Corey returned to his seat by the fire.
"What is it? Not dysentery again, or cholera!" Nathan questioned worriedly.
"No, nothing of that sort, the old lady has pneumonia, and quite badly. I am afraid the trip through the South Pass may do her in." Corey said remorsefully.
Nathan shook his head. 'We cannot camp here and wait for her to recover, that could take weeks, we have to get through the pass before the more intense snows come, remember the 'Donner Party'..."
The other men shuddered. "Can she make it to Fort Hall? That is only about 1 week's travel, there is a small hospital there, if you have to, you can leave her there to recover, I will see to her care." Jeb offered. "I will see to the rest of her party as well, that they get to their destination safely before I leave for Fort Bravo."
Corey thought about it. "It may work, it's worth trying."
Nathan nodded in agreement. "Much obliged Jeb."
It was a few days later, Katie prepared breakfast, after serving Nathan, she grabbed a bite for herself and decided to join him. She wondered inwardly if this was the time to bring up the subject of their feelings. She had not really spoken to him at length since the night of the wagon fire, where he admitted with a nod, he cared for her.
She sighed. Nathan had such a wall around his emotions, she decided she would have to take this slow and tread very carefully.
Katie was just about to speak when Corey walked up to the two of them. "Sorry to interrupt your morning meal, but I thought I should tell you Sister Mary Frances did not make it, she passed about 15 minutes ago." he said sadly.
Katie's hand flew to her mouth. Having a heart-to-heart with Nathan will have to wait. "I will go and see what I can do." Katie stood and headed toward the sick tent. Nathan looked over at Corey; his face was hard-set, his jaw rigid. "Are you alright, Corey?" Nathan asked.
Corey stood a moment. "I lost my first patient. I could not save her, I am a failure..."
Nathan shook his head. "There was nothing you could have done for her. You are a fine doctor Corey, you kept her warm and comfortable in her final extreme, she appreciated it."
Corey just nodded. He thanked Nathan and walked away, he needed to be alone for a while.
After the burial of the beloved older nun that afternoon, Scar found Sister Veronica tending the fire. He was surprised to see her out of her nun's habit, and asked her why.
Veronica sighed. "I am afraid the depth of my conviction and desire to become a nun died with Sister Mary Frances. I find I no longer want that life. Perhaps I never did, but I found I was doing it more for her than for myself." She looked down at her dress. "Dorothy Roseland gave me this, it will do until I can obtain some other clothes."
"I guess we all did things we figured the Sister would want us to do, she was such a kindly soul, wanting only the best for all of us. Now that she is gone, what shall we do?" Scar asked quietly.
Veronica stared into Scar's sad eyes. He was staring at her with a quiet intensity; it was making her tremble slightly.
"I don't know...maybe I can find a job as a teacher somewhere. I have so little money. What about you and Running River? Will you go on to the mission?" Veronica asked. "No, we were only going to be with Sister Mary Frances. She was as a mother to us. I do not wish to live off the charity of others any longer. What a half-breed can find as to work, I do not know, but I will provide for myself and my sister." Scar said proudly.
"I do not doubt you...but do not call yourself that...half-breed, it is horrible." Veronica said softly.
"Does your heart still ache for Flying Eagle?" Scar asked in a low voice.
Veronica stared ahead. "A little. I wish I knew why he did not show up as he promised. But I have to move on."
Scar nodded sadly and walked away. Veronica's eyes followed him intently. Morgan went out for a walk about the camp when he heard soft sobbing behind one of the wagons. It was Running River, she was devastated over Sister Mary Frances passing, she was really the only mother she had known. The kindly nun had raised her, now she was gone.
Morgan felt his heart tighten with compassion; he went over to console the young woman, patting her on the shoulder, whispering words of sympathy. Running River impulsively hugged Morgan tight. At first he stiffened at the contact, he had not embraced a woman in years; Marie would have nothing to do with him the last 4 years at least.
Morgan shuddered, but then he pulled her closer. She felt as if she belonged there in his arms, and he felt feelings stir in him he thought were long dead.
Running River felt the strength of this kind man rush through her, she liked him from the first moment she saw him when he arrived at the mission, but he seemed so cold and distant she did not pursue it, or dare hope. But now...something changed. They parted slightly; Morgan lifted her chin and tenderly wiped away the tears that streaked down her tanned face. She could feel the rough calluses on his fingertips; it sent chills down her spine.
He stroked her cheek gently; their eyes were locked in an intense gaze. Running River reached up and stroked his jaw line, reveling in the feel of his whiskers.
Morgan felt his insides tighten with desire at her touch. He backed away, his eyes still not leaving her beautiful face. He was still married, perhaps in name only but the institution meant something to him. He had heard stories of how romances crop up on the trail only to dissipate when the trip was over. He was lonely, his marriage in tatters, she was vulnerable and grieving, if he were a lesser man with a dark turn of mind, he could indulge his passions and possess her.
But he was not that man.
He stared at her awhile longer, then without a word turned and walked away. At last the wagon train made it to Fort Hall.
"Well, I guess this is where we part ways," Jeb stated wistfully. "I have already said my good-byes to some of the others. I wish you both fervent Godspeed on the rest of your travels."
Nathan nodded. "Thanks for all your help Jeb, I mean it."
Jeb turned to Katie. "You will let me know what comes about with your ranch?" Katie gave Jeb a quick friendly hug then whispered, "Thanks again, Jeb. I will write you as soon as I can to let you know the result." Overcome with emotion at the farewell, she hurried away, leaving the two men.
Nathan cleared his throat, he wasn't comfortable discussing his feelings, but he stated, "Jeb, you are one of the finest men I have ever met, even if you are a soldier."
Jeb laughed but was genuinely touched. "We will keep in touch Nathan, I consider you a friend. I would give you a piece of advice however, grab that Irish beauty and claim her as your own, and do it soon."
The two men shook hands warmly; Jeb mounted his horse and headed south toward the Arizona Territory and Fort Bravo. Nathan stood and watched Jeb disappear over the horizon, then he went to find Katie. "What did Jeb mean, 'the outcome of your ranch'?"
"Jeb is giving me a loan so I can get the ranch started, an investment. The money will be waiting for me at Fort Bridger." Katie declared.
"You can't be serious, you STILL want to start a ranch?" Nathan snorted incredulously.
"Well, it seems I have no other offer!" Katie flounced away, leaving Nathan thunderstruck.
They finally came across their first dusting of snow; it barely covered the ground in some areas. Thankfully it was not too cold, and with any luck they could get through the South Pass relatively unscathed. Supplies were starting to get scarce again, what was left would have to do until they reached Fort Bridger.
Thankfully they had managed to kill a buffalo and dried the meat for the rest of their journey, for they would unlikely see any other game the rest of the trip. This was the most difficult part of the trip, getting the wagons through the South Pass of the Rocky Mountains, each wagon had to be hooked up to a pulley system and guided down carefully through the rocks with ropes keeping it steady. An early dusting of snow and a slick covering of frost made the way even more treacherous.
Nathan stood at the bottom shouting directions to Morgan, who was driving most of the wagons down. They used the horses part of they way, then used the pulleys and ropes the rest. Nathan ran to help Morgan unharness the horses and hook the wagon up to the pulley. While Lucas and some of the other men were at the top working the pulley, Morgan stayed on the wagon to steer it. Without warning, one of the ropes snapped, and the wheels of the wagon began to slide on the slippery snow covered rocks, the wagon was precariously close to the edge of a large precipice.
Nathan yelled at the top of his lungs. "It's going to go over, jump clear Morgan, now!"
Morgan immediately dove out of the wagon and hit the ground hard. The wagon went over the side, it fell quite a distance, and splintered on the jagged rocks below destroying everything that was left inside. Nathan ran up the hill to where Morgan lay face down in the snow. "Morgan! Morgan! Are you alright?"
Morgan groaned slightly and raised his head, his sight was blurry and his head was spinning terribly. He found it extremely difficult to stand; he knew tomorrow he would be covered in bruises.
"I'm ok, I think..." Morgan croaked painfully. "Whose wagon was that that went over the side?" Morgan groaned. He grimaced as he tried to straighten up.
"Are you sure you are all right, nothing broken?" Nathan questioned worriedly.
"My back and neck are killing me! No, I think my bones are intact, but badly bruised nonetheless. Whose wagon Nathan?"
Nathan sighed. "The Thompson's. Luckily they unloaded most of their supplies before we started down with the wagon."
Morgan started walking slowly back up the hill. "Let's go Nathan, we have 20 more wagons to guide."
Nathan looked at Morgan with admiration. "If you are sure, we will continue." Veronica was preparing to pack up and prepare for departure the next morning when Great Bear stepped out from between the snow dusted pine trees.
Veronica gasped in shock. She looked around frantically. "Where is your brother?" she asked in tentative Sioux.
A look of great sadness covered Great Bear's face and he shook his head. He tried to communicate with Veronica; she did manage to make out one word she knew in Sioux, 'dead'. She looked at Great Bear in horror at the news. She screamed aloud, bringing a nearby Nathan and Scar to the scene.
Scar listened to Great Bear's narrative, and he began to translate for Veronica and Nathan. "Flying Eagle returned from meeting with Sister at the mission.
He was followed by a couple of cowboys, who wanted the horses they had, a fight ensued, Flying Eagle was killed, Great Bear left for dead." Nathan cursed aloud. Those damn horses have caused more deaths on this trip! Nathan whispered to Scar, "Was there something between Flying Eagle and the Sister?"
Scar nodded.
He translated some more. "Great Bear had to bury his brother and continue on foot, by the time he got to the mission, we had already left. He managed to get another horse and has been tracking us ever since. Finally caught up to us here. He wanted to explain to Veronica why his honourable brother could not keep his word." Great Bear's face twisted in anger and sadness. "Now he has no one," Scar continued to translate. "No family, no tribe. He could not save his brother; he will have to live with his failure the rest of his days. He wonders if he could come with us to the mission."
Veronica gasped. "Oh dear, how do we tell him we are not going there now, that Sister Mary Frances is no longer with us? Oh we never should have left! What is to become of us all?" Tears spilled down her cheeks. By this time, Morgan had walked up and heard the whole tragic story. "I have a solution..." he said in a strong steady voice. "I aim to start a ranch-farm when I get to California, I cannot do it alone. Scar and Great Bear can come with me, earn an honest living working and sharing the land. Miss Veronica, I invite you as well, we need someone to look after the farmhouse, and of course Scar, your sister is also welcome." Morgan's voice softened considerably when he mentioned Running River. Scar looked at Morgan with great astonishment. He turned to Great Bear and quickly translated what Morgan has proposed. After some discussion, both men turned toward Morgan.
"We would both like to help you build a ranch Mr. Harding. We will do what we can, we will come with you." Scar said with firm conviction. He turned to Veronica. "I hope, you will come with us." He said gently.
Veronica looked at the men. Where else could she go? She looked into Scar's hopeful, kind face. She nodded. "I will." Her heart began to throb...Flying Eagle. She was feeling the loss most acutely. She could stay at the ranch for awhile until she decided what she wanted to do with her life.
She glanced again at Scar, he was looking at her with great emotion, Veronica quickly looked away. That night in his tent, Nathan had though over the past several weeks. He could not deny his feelings any longer. He was in love with Katie O'Toole. He did not deserve her love or any chance at a happy life...but how long must he punish himself, was he willing to let Katie slip through his fingers and be alone the rest of his days? Would he ever find another as splendid as Katie?
He shook his head; the guilt he carried was just too great... The next morning at breakfast, Nathan sat with Morgan, who was grumbling the newspaper they had picked up at Fort Hall was over two months old.
Nathan said to Morgan, "That was generous of you to take them all on, give them a home, a place of work."
Nathan shrugged. "I realized I have to move on with my life, I can't stay mired in misery and guilt over my family's breakup."
Nathan stared straight ahead; Morgan's wise words rolled over him and began to take root...along with Jeb's and Lucas' advice. Morgan had told Lucinda a few days ago of his conversation with Corey. Since he was busy nursing the elderly nun, Lucinda had not got a chance to confront Corey.
Finally, she caught up to him later that morning. She was still wounded and annoyed, how could Corey harbour such thoughts about her?
"Mr. Callahan, I wish to have a word with you. Morgan told me what you said with regards to my supposed past, I must say sir, it is all untrue. My honour is intact I assure you. And shall stay so. Where you learned your prejudices about people, I would hazard to guess it was at your daddy's knee, no doubt the reason you scowl every time the Indians are about as well! You sir, are no gentleman!" Corey listened to Lucinda's cutting words. She was correct. He was an insufferable snob and prejudiced against anyone who did not fit his idea of good society. He felt horrible, he was no gentleman, and she was correct about his father, he did learn these narrow views of people from him.
Corey gathered Lucinda in his arms and held her close. "You are right, Lucinda. Can you forgive me for having no eyes to see? I have done you and others a terrible wrong. Can we forget it and start over?" Lucinda began to tremble in his strong embrace. His deeply felt and spoken words healed her, she would forgive him.
She ran her hands through his wavy golden brown hair. They looked at each other with a deep longing and yearning. They did not hide their feelings for each other; it was plainly etched on their faces.
Nearby, Mrs. Klassen watched the tender scene and began to feel uncomfortable...a little too intimate for a brother and sister... Corey suddenly pulled Lucinda close and kissed her deeply. At first Lucinda was stunned, this was nothing like those youthful sloppy kisses she was subjected back in Kentucky. This was nothing she had ever experienced before; it was glorious. After her initial shock, she enthusiastically returned the kiss.
Their moment of passion was soon interrupted by the horrified screech from Mrs. Klassen. "What in the name of heaven..." Mrs Klassen began. She looked from one to the other, then it suddenly dawned on her. "You two are not related! You gave my heart quite a start! What is the meaning of this! Explain yourselves!"
"No, we are not related Mrs. Klassen. Lucinda wanted to head West, and single women are not allowed on the train, so we cooked up this plot back at Fort Halleck. We meant no harm to anyone, we only wanted to head West, we did not foresee we would grow to care for each other." Corey said with great emotion. Lucinda nodded her agreement. "Truly Mrs. Klassen, we meant no harm."
Mrs. Klassen looked at the young earnest faces. "I will have to inform Mr. MacIntyre, it is my duty."
"Please, I implore you Mrs. Klassen, The Wagon Master will kick us off the train, we are almost there. Please do not tell him about this." Corey pleaded.
Mrs. Klassen thought a moment. "Well, we do need your doctoring skills...I will keep quiet on one condition, Lucinda must join our party. She can no longer travel with you; it is not proper. We will just tell the others you had an argument and need time apart, agreed?"
Lucinda and Corey looked at each other, then nodded their agreement, they did not have much choice.
Fort Bridger, an Indian trading post more than a military post, only a few soldiers remained, as the Mormon Church now owned the Fort. It was originally owned by
Major James Bridger, one of the oldest mountain-men in the entire region, it was not as civilized an outpost as Fort Laramie, but it had plenty of trees and fresh water. Here the weary wagon train settlers will rest for a few days, before heading into California. Nathan and Katie found themselves alone for the meal. Nathan sighed deeply, and decided to open his heart to Katie at last. He explained how he was a gold prospector in California that he left his young wife alone while he panned for gold for weeks at a time.
"You didn't strike it rich?" Katie asked quietly.
"Hardly. I didn't pan enough flake to eat most days." Nathan sighed again, his eyes closed. "I kept trying long enough for my wife Alice to get killed by a bunch of scum bent on thievery." A haunted look passed over Nathan's face. "I took her as my wife, I vowed to protect her, to cherish her...then I did none of it. I failed her, all for the sake of greed. If only I had been content to stay and build a life with her, I may be a different person now, I have lost the right to even consider that existence now."
Katie listened closely to his tragic tale. "I do not believe that, no one should forever lose their chance at happiness because of a perceived mistake!"
"Mistake? I am responsible for her murder! A helpless young woman..." Nathan said forcefully.
Katie laughed shortly. "Your wife was not helpless Nathan, she was a pioneer woman! No one, not even you could have fought off a band of marauders! Your wife would not want the circumstances of her death mean your forfeit the rest of life, to live forever mired in guilt!" "It could happen to you Katie, and who will protect you, a 16 year old boy?" Nathan snarled.
"If needs must, but I would much rather my protector be you, if you are set on me having one." Katie said softly. "Even so, I can take care of myself if I have to, I am not afraid."
Nathan looked at her, his features softened. "Maybe..." he exhaled deeply. "So what are you saying Katie? You think we have a chance at a life together?"
"Why not? We care for each other!" She did not dare say the word 'love', not yet. "I need time to process this Katie, it will take time for me to come to the realization that duty is not the only thing in life, that it is all right for a man to want something more, happiness perhaps. Whether I can overcome the guilt that is such a part of me, is another question."
Katie sucked in her breath. "I will not press you Nathan. Take the time you need, I will wait."
Nathan stood; he leaned down and kissed her on the forehead. "Excuse me sweetheart, I have a wagon train to run." He strode out of the room, leaving Katie with the first spark of hope she has had for weeks. Two days later, the wedding of Lucas and Dorothy finally took place. The tight knit group of friends surrounded the loving couple and witnessed the exchange of vows. When the preacher announced he could kiss the bride, Lucas did so enthusiastically.
Everyone burst into applause. When he first started out on this trip, Lucas did not care for anything or anyone. He lived only to suit his own purposes and to please himself. This dear, sweet woman changed all that. He never thought he would find such contentment and serenity with another human being, nor feel such depth of love and joy, as he was this very minute.
Dorothy had changed him...and he was delighted. Nathan and Katie watched the tender scene and both smiled warmly. They were both so pleased things turned out so well for the couple, but they were also lost in their own thoughts. Can they ever find such happiness and tranquility? Katie wondered how she would ever reach the stubborn Nathan, Nathan wondered if he could let his guard down at last and admit his feelings. The wedding party was in full swing, everyone had pitched in to prepare the wedding banquet, and what a feast it was! They had not had such a feed in many weeks!
After all the hardships, loss of life and events, the group could not have been closer.
An invisble chain of love, friendship and respect bound them tightly. Corey walked up to Lucinda. He was sorely tempted to take her in his arms in front of all and sundry and declare his feelings then and there, but the trip was not quite over yet. They still had to make it to Sutter's Fort, and had to still play the sibling act for a few weeks yet.
"You are looking very beautiful this afternoon Lucinda..." Corey whispered.
Lucinda's heart began to pound against her ribcage. "Thank you..." Corey took her hand and stroked it. "Do you think you would want to share your life with a stubborn, headstrong country doctor, a doctor who begs your forgiveness, one who asks you to help him overcome his thoughtless ways and become the man I know I can be?"
Lucinda took a quick look around the room to see if anyone was watching, they weren't. She looked at him with all the love she was feeling. "I think I can share my life with such a man. I would be honoured, Corey."
Corey closed his eyes and gently kissed her hand. Nathan watched Katie from across the room; she was talking animatedly to all the guests. He felt such a wave of emotion roll through him; he strode purposely across the room and took Katie in his arms. He looked at her with such tenderness and affection, Katie felt tears come to her eyes...he said nothing, he only held her gaze with those dark seductive brown eyes of his.
The room had grown suddenly silent. Finally Nathan pulled Katie into a passionate kiss. The room erupted into cheers and applause and a smattering of happy laughter.
"I think I just won the bet!" Lucas cried with amusement.
The tears of joy spilled onto Katie's flushed cheeks. He loved her; she knew it deep down in her very soul.
And soon, she knew, he would say the words that she longed to hear...
Morgan looked around and noticed Running River had left the party. He went outside and looked around and found her standing alone deep in thought.
"Are you alright?" he asked softly. Running River turned around to face him. She looked altogether sad and reflective.
"I want to thank you for giving Scar a chance to work for you, and work for himself. I have not seen him so happy in years! It means so much to us both..." she choked back a sob. Morgan gathered her close, God she felt wonderful in his arms.
Running River pulled him even closer, rubbing the back of his strong neck and nuzzling his whiskered cheek. He was so beautiful, inside and out. Knowing she was going to be at his ranch, see him every day, filled her heart with joy.
Morgan pulled back from her ardent embrace. "I am a married man..." he said hoarsely. "I know it..." Running River said simply. "Will your wife be joining you?"
Morgan looked down at the ground. "She wants nothing to do with me, she took my two children and went back East. I fear I will never see them again."
"Then I will wait until you are free." Running River said, her voice trembling with emotion.
Morgan stared at her for the longest time. He slowly reached up and took her chin and kissed her tenderly. Later, the party in full swing, Lucas sought out Nathan. "Thanks to you, I just won the bet we all had since this trip began, we all took guesses where along the trail you would finally publicly admit your feelings for Katie. I said it would be Fort Bridger!" Lucas chuckled.
Nathan snorted. "How much did you win?"
Lucas beamed from ear to ear. "I think the pot was up to 23.00!!"
Katie smiled. Outside later that evening, Seamus and Cheri-Sue share a quiet moment. Dublin, now a gangly young dog, ran about their feet barking and looking for attention. But the young couple only had eyes for each other.
Seamus pulled Cheri in an embrace. "I told you it would all work out in the end! I will bet you Nathan and Katie get married, and we will settle not far from you!"
Cheri smiled. "Do you really think so? Oh Seamus, that would be wonderful!"
Seamus kissed her nose affectionately. "I think we can count on it..." he looked over to the porch swing... As they rocked slowly on the swing, Katie stroked Nathan's large hand and asked, "I have wondered almost from the start Nathan, how did you get those scars on your cheek?"
Nathan looked out toward the setting sun, and exhaled.
"I caught up to the men who killed Alice, thankfully, someone had seen them leaving my property. They put up a resistance to me taking them to the Marshall."
"Oh my poor darlin..." Katie said softly.
Katie reached up and stroked his scars gently, then pulled him close. "Ask yourself Nathan, would Alice want you to be happy?"
"I suppose she would, but knowing it and reconciling myself to live any other way are two different things." he replied in a deep voice.
"So can you Nathan? Tell me how you feel..." Katie whispered.
"I suppose we best write to Jeb and tell him you will not be needing that loan..." Nathan smiled.
Katie grabbed Nathan and held him tight, her heart soaring with joy.
"Darlin'...are you saying what I think you are...?" her voice trembled.
"I have purchased that large parcel of land next to Lucas and Dorothy's, in Knight's Ferry, it's ours, you me and Seamus. You will have your ranch in California Katie...I love you." he said in a deeply emotional tone. "Do not ever doubt that." "Oh Nathan I love you, saints preserves us, how long I have wanted to tell you! I cannot think of anything I want more than a ranch with you! I..."
But Nathan cut her off in mid sentence, he kissed her deeply and offered a quick prayer to himself, he would never take such emotions for granted, he would love and cherish her for the rest of their lives together. "Lord, how you do rattle on, Katie..." Nathan said huskily. "We best rustle us up the preacher as soon as possible, there is a huge plot of land begging for a house. We best head out there to see what we can do to make us a home."
HOME.
The word resonated in her heart. In the Wagon Master's strong caring arms, she was finally home.
THE END~~
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74 Comment(s) posted so far
On Mar 8, 2008 Veronn wrote:
Perfect work.
On Mar 8, 2008 katlin194 wrote:
Fantastic!
On Mar 8, 2008 mangooo1 wrote:
Wow, I loved it! I haven't suspect this will be the last part (even though the title was "Conclusion")
But it was a fantastic story, I love happy ends so much! 
Thanks for sharing this wonderful story, and hope you'll continue writing so we can read a lot from you in the future as well! 
On Mar 8, 2008 rover202 wrote:
Amazing story and... Beautifully told
Your screen shots are always magnificent. Hope you take us through some more journeys!
)
( I loved the 'Lucaus winning the bid part!' too comical
On Mar 8, 2008 thekewlestnerd wrote:
Sad to see the end of the story, but it was brilliant and I'm so glad you shared it with us!
On Mar 8, 2008 whatisfreedom wrote:
great end to a good story
On Mar 8, 2008 xbluexmistx wrote:
Such a beautiful story! I loved the way you told it - very expressive, emotional etc. The story is very original, too. Brilliant!
On Mar 8, 2008 ulis wrote:
Good story ! Skins are beautiful .You made an amazing job
On Mar 8, 2008 Deedee09 wrote:
Great !
On Mar 8, 2008 OpheliaNival wrote:
Great ending, hun'! The right amount of tears, drama and love! Beautiful job, the sets and the story itself is wonderful. I especially liked the part where the wagon went off the cliff, just the sheer fact that you managed to recapture it in the game is outstanding!
Morgan, dear, melted my heart when he took on the Natives as a workforce, in that time it would not have been easy. He is such a man! You have a great moral in the story and apart from just being entertainment, I think we can all learn something or other from this... Too bad it's over already, can't wait untill your next story! Thank you for sharing! 
On Mar 8, 2008 katty007 wrote:
No words... This ending, or I should better say "the beginning", is so reassuring, seems like everything will be ok not only in the heroes' life... Thank you for the good mood, created by your stories.
On Mar 8, 2008 evetsangel wrote:
Wonderful story! Thank you for sharing.
On Mar 8, 2008 OCIKITTEN wrote:
thanks so much
On Mar 8, 2008 Icequeen21740 wrote:
On Mar 8, 2008 samcactus101 wrote:
OMG!!
That was such a wonderful ending!!! Truly indeed
Fantabulous job, I really enjoyed this story. Hope to read more from you!
On Mar 8, 2008 panda_bears1 wrote:
Aww, 10.0!
Everything, just everything ended perfectly for everyone. I've really enjoyed this tale from start to finish and couldn't be happier with this part, except that it had to end
awesome job karen!
On Mar 8, 2008 DDeFrain wrote:
That was great! I loved it!
On Mar 8, 2008 VictoriaGrace wrote:
Karen, you did a wonderful job tying up loose ends! Fabulous story! Bravo!!! Victoria
On Mar 8, 2008 Earcat wrote:
What a great story! I hate to see it end, but maybe, if you want to, eventually you can write a follow up story about Nathan and Katie in Califoria.
On Mar 8, 2008 sandybvv wrote:
fabulous story! From start to finish!
Great job Karen, lovely, beautiful, romantic, dramatic, love it!!
Great job Mate!!!
Beautiful ending and wonderful characters, great job, amazing!
You are the best!
On Mar 8, 2008 paxmundi wrote:
On Mar 8, 2008 cariadbach wrote:
What a truly amazing story Wagon Master has been . You had the hairs on my arms standing on edge
Bravo mate
On Mar 8, 2008 charliefell wrote:
amazing story !
well done!
On Mar 8, 2008 Zayury wrote:
On Mar 8, 2008 eshuff wrote:
Oh I am crying! Wonderful wonderful ending to a fabulous story! The bad guys came to a bad end; the hero got the girl; all is right with the world. And the shots are SPECTACTULAR!!! I can't come up with praise high enough!
-- Beth
On Mar 8, 2008 iluvhorses13 wrote:
Great job! Loved this story, it was fantastically written. Keep it up!
On Mar 8, 2008 muggelx1 wrote:
very good story
On Mar 8, 2008 GFitz wrote:
"Dumber than a bag of hammers!" LOL! I have to remember that. This was simply awesome. I loved every minute of it. Romantic, emotional, and so true to the period. I cannot say enough! I am going to miss this saga but in the end everyone got their just desserts! Bravo!
On Mar 8, 2008 SongChild99 wrote:
I'm not sure if I just got caught up in the story or if the light tears are from laughter. O.o Either way, this was a wonderful ending. Looking forward to your next story. If there is one.
On Mar 8, 2008 leifofdel wrote:
Fantastic, I want the story to go on and on. everything was great: the story, the pictures, the lessons. I loved it. Thanks for writing it.
On Mar 8, 2008 wrote:
Oh, that was beautiful.
I loved it all so much. (I'm really loving Thunder Valley, too - great work.) As always, I'm excitedly looking forward to your next project.
On Mar 8, 2008 dealer_day wrote:
Awesome!
You've done a great job. 
On Mar 8, 2008 jaundyce61 wrote:
Wonderful! Everything tied up nicely! Lucinda was a great character! So glad she has an influence on Corey! Great action, emotion and such an authentic feel in your pics and writing! And Scar...wow! That look he gives Veronica...sigh! Another great tale!!
On Mar 8, 2008 kissme87 wrote:
Great shots , very nice story
On Mar 8, 2008 gizmo31 wrote:
Fantastic story , i bet it took you ages to get all the screenshots , excellent work
On Mar 8, 2008 sweetcharming wrote:
...wow...that was a awesome ending!
I'm so glad that it has an happy ending! Wonderful story, thank you so much for sharing!
I'm already waiting for your next story
On Mar 8, 2008 Daishi wrote:
On Mar 8, 2008 kat795 wrote:
On Mar 8, 2008 qvisn wrote:
On Mar 8, 2008 SIMcredible! wrote:
GREAT! FABULOUS!
*claps*
On Mar 8, 2008 terriecason wrote:
Outstanding ending to a great story. I'm glad that everything worked out for everyone involved. I look forward to reading your other stories.
On Mar 8, 2008 maxi king wrote:
On Mar 9, 2008 binky13 wrote:
Awww
everything ended up so sweet. It seemed everyone had someone to love and be with.
On Mar 9, 2008 wrote:
Love the historical references (Fort Bridger, the Donner party)and the action, love the bit about getting the wagons through the pass. You resolved all the relationships and ended it on an upbeat note, and you left it so you could continue on...I for one would like to know how Morgan Harding and his new work force make out. Well done.
On Mar 9, 2008 loverien wrote:
What a great story! Everything was fantastic! Just like your other story series! I so l-o-v-e happy endings!
Colliegirl
On Mar 9, 2008 Saoz wrote:
What a wonderful ending to a fantastic story.
Your attention to detail, both in terms of storytelling and in the screenshots, is amazing! (I actually lol'ed when Lucas said, "What burr is under your saddle?" to Nathan. 
)
On Mar 9, 2008 captainlicious wrote:
Aww the ending is so cute I nearly cried! I can't believe this is the end of 'Wagon Master'! I loved the story from the beggining to end!
On Mar 9, 2008 estatica wrote:
This was just the perfect ending! I was anxiously waiting to see what would happen to Nathan and Katie and I'm so happy it ended this way! The characters were wonderful , the sets were magnificent and your writing addictive. Thank you for putting this together and for making another awesome story. If I could rate, I would give this story 5!
On Mar 9, 2008 DragonessGirl wrote:
Wonderful, satisfying conclusion! Really well done. A lot of budding romance there! The only thing I didn't like was how quickly Corey came around, it usually takes much longer for a person to go through a paradigm shift, as he did. But the other couples were very sweet. My favourite is still Seamus and Cheri-Sue.
//Dragoness
On Mar 9, 2008 BoodaMae wrote:
Well well well, look who ended the best story on TSR. lol...Well, I really did LOVE it!!!!!!! It was the best- I mean I was crying! How do you do it? I'll miss ALL the charachters, especially little Cheri-Sue! How she grew, already kissing boys! She better watch out, they might fight over her!
Well, maybe since it was so good you'll make a "Where Are They Now" type thing. Oh yea, where did you get the "Dumber Than A Bag Of Hammers" thingy? I crcked up SO hard! Well, I'll miss it, but at least we had fun....
And for some reason it won't let me rate, maybe that's because so many people gave you a 5.0! 
On Mar 9, 2008 KatCat wrote:
On Mar 9, 2008 drewsoltesz wrote:
THANK YOU everyone! I am working on other stories, Jeb will be in his own story 'Escape from Fort Bravo' a two parter, Also have a stand alone story that is almost finished, and I just may follow these 'Wagon Master' characters a little more, who knows?
Also have a Western story at my off-site blog. Let me know you are interested in this story in my GB I will send you the link! Cheers for the support!
On Mar 9, 2008 Deanna73070 wrote:
Beautiful ending, Karen! I'm so happy that everything worked out with everyone. Thanks for sharing your wonderful stories with all of us. I never get tired of reading them!!!!
On Mar 9, 2008 Hordriss wrote:
You should write historical romamce professionally. It's nice to see someone who actually bothers to research...
Generally a satisfying and touching conclusion, although I feel that Corey, repulsive little pharisee that he is, deserves a longer spell in Coventry / Purgatory. Although it is a tale of redemption and forgiveness, so I suppose I'd better give the judgemental git the benefit of the doubt and assume he genuinely improves. 
On Mar 10, 2008 Kenvjo wrote:
Worst part of the story was that it ended
I love the emotional ride you allow us to experience through each character! Really hope we get to see these characters again. Great stuff as always! 
On Mar 10, 2008 spicylove wrote:
finally i can read..the story to be able to put the finally pieces together about the story..im so happy that katie wasn't harm i was worried that she was now i can actually put that to rest now that she is safe...but omg this story is soo good it has so many interesting parts i mean why is it over? lol is it another part would we ever find out what would happen betten katie and Nathan would they ever get married or start a family i mean i wonder what is going to happen okay this is to good why did it have to end..great story omg the best story i ever read on here
On Mar 10, 2008 BBKZ wrote:
I'm a bit late but... aww...
I'm really touched. Aww... This was wonderful story 
On Mar 11, 2008 happyb8888 wrote:
What a wonderful story! I just loved it and the ending was great!!!
Now....how about continuing a story with their lives in California!!!
Just a suggestion! Anyway, super, super writing!!!
On Mar 11, 2008 atangki wrote:
Awwww. Great job!
On Mar 11, 2008 Melody Curious wrote:
That was just so perfect and fantastic..... I don't want it to be over, but they say all good things must. I know we will see more from you... when the time is right.
You my dear, are a fantastic writer and I enjoy everything you do!
On Mar 11, 2008 hazabaza1 wrote:
Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa(etc, etc)ay! A happey ending! Glad that everything had turned out alright!
On Mar 12, 2008 cpyle822 wrote:
On Mar 13, 2008 twinkletoe wrote:
Again, thank you for sharing your wonderful talent found in you writing and screenshots.
When I read your stories I find myself walking down memory lane through Fort's and passes and history museum's, through Donner Pass and walking through wagon wheel tracks. I have had a chance to see those things and love history. Thanks for sharing your stories with us. Your writing is very discriptive. Amazing job as always. 
On Mar 14, 2008 wrote:
On Mar 15, 2008 md198 wrote:
Another great series
And what a wonderful last picture
On Mar 17, 2008 Devalyn wrote:
wow, amazing story! I'm glad that everyone found happiness in the end, I love happy endings
I hope you'll start a new story soon
On Apr 2, 2008 sallyhails wrote:
Beautiful ending Karen, what a wonderful story, I'm so glad it worked out for everyone, but I'm also a little sad to see the story end, I liked just about every charcter in this story and will miss them like old friends. Bravo
On Apr 16, 2008 S.Cains wrote:
Sorry for leaving this comment a bit late. I just wanted to make sure mine didn't get lost with all the others
No, I was just lazy. Anyway, what a fantastic conclusion - everybody lived happily ever after! YAY! 
On May 24, 2008 twofee wrote:
sad its over, but happy that it was a good one
On Jun 13, 2008 jayb04 wrote:
awww it's 3:32 in th morning and i finished the whole thing..... i loved it thanks so much for sharing!!!
On Sep 21, 2008 mpatton wrote:
I just finished the story. It was great.
Is there any chance of seeing more of these characters in the future?
On Mar 30, 2009 omik79 wrote:
Very nice! I have to admit...I would LOVE to see what happened to all of them! I enjoy reading your stories..I hope there are more to come good job!
On Apr 3, 2009 lisalise wrote:
Great story, Thank you for sharing it
On Oct 31, 2009 Neko Sims wrote:
That was sooo good!
that it should be made in a Sims2 Movie!!!!!!
Thanks for the story, really made my day (: