Setting: Old West
Disclaimer: The following is a work of fanfiction based on the CBS television series, The Magnificent Seven. It is in no way intended to infringe on the copyrights of CBS, MGM, The Trilogy Entertainment Group, The Mirisch Corp., or anyone else who may have legal rights to the characters, settings or song references. I don't own the characters. This story is strictly for entertainment. No monetary gain will be made from anything contained in this story.
Chris made his way down to the shoreline, watching the wind lift the long brown curls. He grinned and took a seat next to the lone figure. Two weeks made quite a difference. Vin's blinding headaches were dying down and his ribs were healing. More important, there was an ease in his stance, his eyes were light and his soul seemed reborn.
"You need a haircut," he grunted, "You're gettin' embarrassing to be seen with."
"Yer just jealous..." Vin touted, "'cause them yella sprouts ya got is gettin' thinner. Reckon if I'm Blue Eagle, ye'd be Bald Eagle." He paused, then got his own joke, "Hey, bald eagle... hey that's funny."
The blond thought for a moment, realizing now would be the perfect time to ask. He eyed the classic features and got a mental image of a fireball ten year old with a short temper and a hot blue eyes. He saw the longing and maybe a bit of sadness in the blue eyes, as they cast of the sea and back in time.
"Vin? Can I ask you something?"
"Shoot."
"What does 'babi' mean?" He squinted a bit as the last of the sun's rays hit the tracker's face, bathing him in a rich gold light. "You... uh... called me that a few times... your voice... changed. I was just wondering..." He saw the eyes crinkle first, as the grin slowly formed. A soft chuckle slipped through the parted lips.
Vin smiled from the inside out. That word was special to him. It amazed him that despite the head injury and fever, his mind made that connection. How to explain to Chris Larabee that he had become 'babi' in every sense of the word? A bond he thought lost the night his brother rode out, leaving his most sacred possession. The spark that started the day he met those cool green eyes over a dusty street. The fire inside that grew every day, a power feeling that meant as much to him as breathing.
Chris misinterpreted the silence from the other man and turned slightly. "It's okay, Vin. I didn't mean to pry."
"...onry, broodin', tight-assed cuss who shoots green fire..." He raised a single eyebrow as the other's eyes narrowed.
"Stick out that tongue, so I can see the fork in the middle of it..."
Vin laughed and tossed some pebbles in the sea, before taking a seat on the long piece of driftwood. Chris remained a few feet away, turned partly towards the sea.
"It ain't an easy word t'understand. It's and older brother... but not jes' any brother. It's the feelin's ya get inside fer someone who ya look up to. Someone who learned ya all the right things, by example, with pride and honor. Taught ya right from wrong, picked ya up when ya fell down, made ya try again, understood yer grief and accepted yer tears...kicked yer ass when ya needed it..." He shook shaggy head. "shit... this ain't comin' out right. Iffen I called ya that... I want ya t'know I was talkin' t'Chris, not Teheno. He was 'babi' once, yer 'babi' now... fer as long as yer ridin' with me." He drew circles in the sand and saw a shadow fall over him. A single palm was open to him. He drew his face up slowly and saw a tidepool of deep green swirling in those mezmerizing eyes. He took the hand and was hauled up. Their forearms clasped for a moment, then they turned to the sea. They stood for awhile, each letting the feeling sink in and take hold. Finally, the air grew cooler and the older man turned.
"You gonna get cleaned up? I thought we'd go into town tonight."
"Yeah, okay," Vin nodded, "I been thinkin' some..."
"Oh God," the blond sighed, shaking his head. "There goes the trip to town."
"Shut the hell up, Larabee!"
Chris waited and waited, but nothing else came. He looked over and the blue eye were trained on the sea. "Vin?" He prompted.
"Huh? What?"
"What?"
"Well if ya don't know what ya was thinkin', how'm I supposed t'know?"
"Huh?" Chris shook his head in confusion. "Cut that out. You were thinking, remember?"
"Oh," Vin sighed, "Ya know, Chris, fer years I used to wonder 'bout what Teheno thought, when he rode back. Seein' all that butchery..." he paused, opening both palms. "He put his boy right here."
"Don't Vin..."
"No, it's okay," Tanner turned, wearing an easy smile. "There's a hole inside, way down deep... been totin' it since that night. All that wonderin' made it grow." He turned his face again, simple in it's sincerity. "It's gone... the hole's gone..." He eyed the darkening sky, "I used t'always here his voice, no matter how far away he was. I always had a sense o'him... until that night. Ya got no idea how much it hurt t'lose that."
"Vin..."
"Let me finish," He cut off the clipped, worried voice. "I don't know how and I ain't gonna bust into sweat figgerin' it out..." he stood, gripped both of Larabee's dark shirted shoulders and leveled a shot of unparalled faith through the eyes. "Ya gave him back t'me, Chris Larabee. Ya plugged up them holes... fer me... ya done that fer me..." He nodded once and turned away, feeling his throat tighten.
The leader smiled, his pale eyes shining. He gripped the back of the sharpshooter's neck and gave a single tug. "I never met the man," he noted of Teheno, "but I see him every day, wearing blue eyes." He gave a half grin and nod, when the shaggy head turned sharply, eyes emotive. "He'd be proud as hell of you, Tanner, I know I am."
"Thanks," the blue eyes grew serious as their forearms locked, "...babi..."
"You about done bearin' that raggedy-assed soul and all that shit?" Chris charged, getting the smile he set out for.
"Yer a real sentimental fool, Larabee."
"Go scare up some Tanner rags, we're going to town."
"Huntin' trip?" He asked, seeing the devilish light in the green eyes.
"Uh-huh... Buck's got something lined up. I don't know all the details but it involves Ezra and women."
"Aw, hell, more yer old bones... time's wastin'."
"How much longer? This place is about as excitin' as watchin' ye mix up them lead balls ya pass off fer dumplin's."
"You got the attention span of a flea," Larabee sassed back, shoving the tracker back into his seat. "Sit down, they'll see us."
"Well as least I'm bein' spicshus..." Vin hissed.
"What?" Chris's face screwed up "...the hell is spicshus?"
"...blending in..." he patted his neutral cloths. "Ya need t'read more, so's ye'd know about such words."
Chris frowned and then rolled his eyes, "It's inconspicuous, genius."
"...shame we're not at a funeral" he prattled on, oblivious, "Ye'd fit right in..." he eyed the black cloth.
"Get your head down! They'll see you."
"Seems t'me that ain't such a bad idea," Tanner whispered, "seein' as how they got beer and we're eatin' plant dust." He sneezed, shoving the fern leaves from his nose. His headache was building at a record rate and the sneezing only made it worse. He sneezed twice, then rubbed his watery eyes.
"Shhhh!"
"'scuse the hell outta me..." Tanner pouted, then saw a familiar body, a very shapely one. "Hey, hey looks it's that Red Cross lady..." He frowned, "Her name's Abby... I think, it's all kinda fuzzy."
"Would you shut up!" Chris hissed, "Buck's up to something..."
"Hello Darlin'," Buck boomed, embracing the beautiful woman. "My God, you make all the flowers outside look like a pile of weeds." He was still limping and using a cane, but well on the road to recovery.
"I feel nausea rising..." Standish groaned at the form fitting embrace and lingering kiss. He cleared his throat and thwacked the rogue's leg. "Is this your idea of a joke?"
"Joke?" Buck snapped, "These are the two most talented lips this side of Paris. Ain't that right, Darlin'? Don't go swoonin' now... I only got one good leg."
"Good Lord, the bile riles," The conman groaned. "Was my sole purpose for this trip to watch your clumsy amourous endeavors?"
"Hell, no," Wilmington kissed the pretty nurse again and let his fingers dance up her spine. "Where is she?" he eyed the lobby, pausing a second on a cluster of plants, that seemed to sneeze.
"Cut that out!" Larabee hissed, covering Vin's nose and mouth and shoving him lower. "He heard you!... Ow" he pulled his hand back "Did you bite me?"
"Ya do that again and I'll do worse than bite yer hand." Tanner huffed. "He can't see nothin' but her bumps..."
"Oh, I'm sorry, she was delayed. Her train arrives in a half hour. I'm sure Ezra won't mind waiting" She purred, unbuttoning Buck's top buttons and snaking her hand inside, teasing his tender points. "It's awfully hot in here, Buck? How about a carriage ride? The sound of the restless surf is intoxicating"
"You read my mind," the mustached man groaned, his desire crowding him. "You hang tight, Pard, there's a vision of beauty headin' your way. A friend of Abby's. What's her name again?"
"Hoffendacken... Miss..."
"What!" Ezra sputtered, rising, red-faced and shoving the injured man hard onto a chair. "Have you lost what little gray matter resides in that thick skull of yours? Your days, Mister Wilmington, are numbered!" He gritted, grabbed his hat and stalked off.
"What the hell was that about?" Vin hissed, seeing Chris grinning. "What?"
"Hoffendacken... that's that old crone who manhandled Erza naked... hah... Buck got 'im again."
"Damn..." Vin sneezed again and rubbed his pounding temples. "Can we leave now, I'm tired o'hangin' snots on these fancy plants."
"Yeah, just wait a minute until Buck goes. There's a nice cafe here, we can get a drink." He caught a side glance at the tracker's pinched face and the slim fingers pressing on each temple. Suddenly, Nathan's face loomed in his mind and the words 'frequent blackouts' appeared. "You okay,Vin?"
"...nothin' that a drink won't fix..."
They shared a small pitcher of Sangria and watched the crowded lobby thin out. Chris had the last glass halfway to his lips, when his eyes widened. He felt his pants get tighter and a flush rise.
"What?" Vin saw the change and turned.
"I just died and went to heaven," the leader stood, smiled at the six-foot blonde goddess with a lush body who appeared lost.
"Don't crowd me," Vin warned, shoving the man in black. "Hell, them clothes is barely on 'er... she's sproutin' out the top of that blouse."
"I got eyes, Vin." The husky voice held no secrets.
"Yeah, I can see that, they're poppin' right outta yer head!" he clamored, shoving the older man again.
"Evenin' Miss?" Chris nodded, taking off his hat and unleashing his killer smile. "I'm Chris Larabee, maybe I can be of service to you." He grimaced as Vin cleared his throat loudly and wiggled in front of him. The tracker's face was at breast level and his blue eyes were watering.
"You better run along, Son and get something for that rash," the leader shoved the lean Texan away. "You know how them pants aggravate your uh... delicate areas..."
"What?" Vin squeaked, saw the lusty blonde's large brown eyes zone in on his crotch. He turned beet red and clenched both fists. "I ain't got no rash but yer gonna be singin' high notes in church if ya keep it up." He lost his anger and smiled like choirboy, "I'm Vin Tanner, Ma'am, at yer service."
"Well, I certainly didn't expect such a warm welcome," she oozed, cupping the blue-eyed one's chin' "You're so cute..."
"..and young..." he added, elbowing Larabee. "...lots o'stamina..."
"Shut up, Vin," Chris hissed, "Ma'am, are you meeting anyone?"
"Oh, where are my manners," She bent down to retrieve her satchel and gave them an eyeful.
"Oh God," Vin whispered, flexing his inner thighs, "the boys' is all fired up..."
"I'm Inge Hoffendacken, my Aunt Cornelia works with Abby Bauer. I'm from the home office in San Francisco. We got separated and I missed my train. I was too meet an Ezra Standish for a night of... well... entertainment."
"Well now that is a shame," Chris offered in a voice dripping with sincerity. "You see old Ezra took sick. He had to leave... some folks don't take to spicy food, if you get my meaning,."
"Oh," she nodded sympathetically of the intestinal distress.
"But I'm a very good friend of his, we work together. Show you a good time?" Chris said in a low, sultry voice, his eyes not masking his intent.
"You have captivating eyes, Mister Larabee," she leaned in for a closer inspection, feeling the virile body.
"My father is Mister Larabee, I'm Chris and..." Suddenly the ripe body was not longer in front of him. He was gazing lustfully at air. He looked down and saw her bending over a body. "Vin?"
"He's not breathing..." She rolled him over and felt bulk under his shirt. "His chest is bandaged..."
"He's got busted ribs and a head injury..." Chris squinted at the slack face, now nestled comfortably between Inge's amble breasts. He put his hand over Vin's nose and mouth and felt little if any air. "...but he was fine..." His voice trailed off as he recalled Vin's dizzy spell a few moment prior.
"He fell and could have easily damaged his lungs... especially with broken ribs. It's a delicate area. Plus, you were shoving him rather hard."
Chris's face colored and he rose, scanning the lobby. "I'll get some help."
Timing is everything and after two well-honed minutes, the sly one's blue eyes opened a crack. He felt the smooth mounds of flesh under his neck and smiled, nearly whooping. "Wh...at... hap..pened..." he whispered painfully. "I'm okay... Miss..."
"No, you passed out, it could be quite serious," She scolded as he stood up. "I'm a nurse, I'm well trained in these matters. You should lie down and..."
"Whose movin' the room?" Vin swayed, letting the goddess catch him.
"Your friend will be back soon," she pulled him close, locking her long arm around his waist and supporting him.
"I'm okay, Miss..." he stammered, his face pressed to her chest "..don't... wanna... cause a f..f...fuss. I'll... jes' get... some... air... so ... hot... m'legs... are quakin'..." he shook on cue "If ye'd be s'kind t'point the way t'the street... I... I..."
"Vin?" She caught his belt loop and tugged hard as he sagged again. "I have a room just upstairs. We can take the lift. You should lie down."
"I don't wanna... be... a ..both..er... Miss..."
"Nonsense," She eyed him flinching. "Is your back bothering you?"
"...n...n...no... Miss... not... r.eally... s'nothin' fer ya t'fret... over..." He paused, eyeing the blond far across the lobby. Worse yet, he had Ezra with him!
"I have medicinal herbs in my bag, I'll give you a hot bath and rubdown... there'll be no talk of being a bother. Lean on me," She hugged him closer, as the door to the elevator opened. She snapped her hand and the small clerk hustled in ahead, carrying her bags.
"What the hell?" Chris eyed the spot where he left his friend on death's door.
"There he is... apparenlty being kidnapped by an Amazon!"
"That was your escort, Ezra..." Chris glared, just as the 'victim''s head popped up and grinning behind his rescuer's back.
"What?" the conman stuttered, "But that's impossible, I've seen that Hoffendacken creature..."
"Yeah, well now you've seen her niece," he huffed, "Let me tell you, she's something you'd never forget." He glared openly at the smirking Texan. He was nestled snugly against the statuesque blonde. Both eyebrows went up and one blue eye boldy winked at him, just as the doors shut. "I'm gonna fuckin' skin that weasel alive!" He clapped his hat on his leg. "Dammit!" He vented, having been played the fool.
"Speaking of removing skins from varmits, " Standish gritted, his anger rising. "Where is Buck Wilmington?"
"Halfway to heaven by now," Chris noted, "You know Buck won't waste any time. Come on, Erza, I wanna get drunk 'til I hurt."
"A capital idea," The southerner agreed, "lead on."
"He still wearin' that shit eatin' grin?" Buck asked, standing next to Chris Larabee outside Gloria Potter's store.
"Yup."
"Ain't natural for somebody to be that happy just sittin'," the rogue eyed the sated tracker, who was perched on a barrel outside the silversmith shop down the street. He was leaning against the wall of the building, dozing in the morning sun like a contented cat.
"Yup."
"What the hell is that?" the dark blue eyes narrowed, scanning the ground next to the sharpshooter. "Another present? He's been home for over a month... he's don't get headaches anymore. I know that basket..." he zoned in, recognizing the green cloth lining the inside. "No wonder he's grinnin' like that, his belly's full of oatmeal cookies and spice cake. That's Miss Laurel's work..." he snarled of the cook from the hotel. "I was supposed to take her on a walk last night... she said she was busy..."
"Yup."
'"That dog! How long's he gonna milk this?" The rogue scowled, "You should have heard him last night as supper. Blushin' and 'No Ma'amin' the hell all over the place. I left for five minutes to go to the privvy and when I got back I couldn't see him for all the skirts around the damn table. Fussin' over him like he was some damn king..."
"Yup."
"As stimulating as your conversation is, Pard, I'm headin' for the saloon, you comin'?"
"Nope."
"No?" He squinted, watching the barest hint of a grin on the only visible part of Chris Larabee's face. The rest was hidden under the broad black hat. He followed the turn of the head down the street, to where the stage was pulling out.
"Got business," He stood
"With the post office?" Buck clamored, "You spend more time in there lately than the saloon. You're not gettin' any ideas of gettin' a real job?"
"You worry me, Buck," Chris imparted and slowly walked toward the post office. Since the wire came three weeks ago, he'd been checking every delivery. The note from the Indian Affairs Bureau chief in Washington, D.C. stated that his request had been received and to expect a reply Maybe today would be the day. He hadn't told the others, if it was bad news, he'd tell Vin alone. His long strides took him easily into the post office.
"Mornin' Mr. Larabee."
"Teddy," Chris nodded at the bespeckled, red-headed youth. He waited patiently, watching the nervous boy drop half the letters.
"Sorry," he stammered, flipping through the piles in front of him.
"S'okay, Teddy," He tipped his hat. He was just about to cross the street, when he was interrupted.
"Mr. Larabee!"
He ducked back into the doorway, spotting a rectangular box in the youth's hands. It was a good size and wrapped in brown paper.
"This one has your name on it... all the way from Denver..."
"Thanks," he flipped the clerk a piece of silver and took the package, frowning at the scrolling writing. Excellent handwriting, a woman's hand. He went up to his room and carefully took the paper off, folding it neatly. There were two letters, a picture and a carved wooden box. It was dark mahagony, carved with a fine hand. When he saw the image inlaid in the center, he knew his answer. He sighed, smiled and felt a weight lift from his shoulders.
"Blue Eagle," he spoke with reverence, gently touching the mother of pearl, abalone and turquiose figure of an eagle. The eyes were brilliant blue. He left the box on the bed and examined the paperwork. A very thick letter was addressed to Vin. The second bore his name and he slit the top.
"Hello Chris Larabee, my name is Jolie Carboneau. I received a letter from President Grant, inquiring about my husband, Teheno. He spoke of you with brave words, of courage and valor and love for your friend, my husband's beloved brother. The news that the letter brought, that his 'Tanner' was alive and well, brought old tears to his eyes. His heart wept in gladness and I wept with him, holding him close. He would have come himself to delivery this special gift for his Tanner, but he's recovering from a dangerous fever and too weak to travel. So first, from my husband and our family and myself, thank you Chris Larabee for loving your Tanner so much, that you gave him back to his brother. Second, the other letter is for Tanner, it is my husbands words that I have written down. It tells of our lives together here in the Rocky Mountains, where he hunts with my father. We have a trading post and my husband's fine hand supplies the beautiful furniture and other carved items. We are happy here in this little heaven. The box is Tanner's wings. He will understand. The photograph is new, taken in Denver just for Tanner, just before my husband fell ill. It is of my husband, myself and our four boys. The oldest, who is seven, is at his father's right hand. He is stubborn, has a hot temper and is much too smart for his breeches. He has given my husband silver strands in his hair! I think you will know by the set of his jaw and the color of the sky in his eyes, why we named him "Tanner' and why he is my husband's heart."
"Damn," Chris grinned, eyeing a scowling little handsome face with two angry pale eyes. The arms were crossed over the proud little chest, with thrust out, like the chin, in defiance. "...he's a Tanner alright!"
Then his eyes followed the arm on the boy's shoulder. It's buckskin jacket was form fitting over a tall man's lean chest. His shoulder length hair was dark and they eyes were ageless and intelligent. He'd have known him anywhere, and in a strange way, felt connected. The author of the fine letter, was a beautiful young woman with dark curls and large pale eyes. He carefully rewrapped the box and made his way to the street. The barrel was empty and the basket was gone. He passed the saloon and looked in the window. It was nearly empty; Ezra, Buck and Josiah were playing cards. Nathan was writing a letter and J.D. was pestering Buck. Vin was sitting alone, chair tilted back, floppy hat over his eyes. As he entered the room, he noted the precarious position of the two legs of the chair, which was leaning against the support beam.
"You're gonna break your back, Vin."
"...never happen..."
"Whatcha got, Chris?" J.D. eyed the brown wrapped bundle tucked under the arm of the leader.
"Package for Vin."
"Me?"
Chris flinched as the chair slammed down and the body flew up in one motion. Before he could explain, Vin took the box and read the front with great difficulty.
"I know that ain't my name... damn there's a lotta loops and swirls... it's a girl's writin'... C... L... this yers?"
"Well, it came to me, but it's for you..." He put his hands over the wrapper. "I think you better sit down, Cowboy." He gently shoved the buckskinned shoulder downwards and into the chair.
"What's goin' on?" Vin narrowed his eyes, first to the box, the to his best friend. "Ya look like ya ate a porcupine..."
"Hah," Ezra chuckled, "you do have a way with words. An old friend, perhaps?"
"...ain't go no old friends," the puzzled Texan replied, taking Buck's beer and claiming it with a good swallow. "...leastwise not livin'..."
"Help yourself, Slick, it ain't like I was fixin' on drinkin' that," the womanizer teased.
"Before you open it, Vin , I want to explain..." Chris tried, but the fingers pulled the wrapping off.
The wood burned his fingers as if forged in the bowels of hell. He shot back off the chair, putting both hands up defensively. Then he wrapped them around the collar of the black duster, backing the owner into the beam hard.
"Where'd ya get that? Where the Hell did ya get that!"
Chris didn't hear the bellow, all he saw was fright in the blue eyes. So he didn't say a word. He waited until the chest stopped heaving and clarity returned to the irate blues. He felt the grip lessen and raised a single eyebrow. The hands fell down, clenched into fists and the eyes pained openly for an answer.
"Somebody want to fill us in?" Buck spoke, eyeing the two men staring hard.
"Maybe we should go?" J.D. asked, standing up.
"It's from... him... ain't... it..." Vin stammered and saw the bronzed face before him dip once. "Oh God... Chris..."
"Whoa!" He moved forward, catching the tracker's elbow when his knees buckled. He got him back to the chair and wiggled his fingers for Ezra's flask. "Here, drink," Two sips later, the head rose, the eyes were wide and wondering, but ready for an answer.
"The day you rolled out in the wagon, headed for San Diego, I had to stay behind. We, well, Nathan and Doctor Smith, thought you were becoming too attached to Teheno. So I had to stay behind, forcing your hand." Chris took his foot to the base of the chair, resting his boot. "longest day and night of my life. I got to thinking about him, Teheno, and thought maybe I could find him for you."
"How did you pull that off?" J.D.'s eyes went wide. "I mean... it's a big country out there... How... where did you look?"
"Across the street..." he replied and saw Josiah's head turn.
"You're kidding?" The preacher guessed, and saw the half smile. He lifted his beer and toasted the effort. "You got balls, Chris Larabee."
"What?" J.D.'s head popped back and forth.
"Across the street..." Buck mused, then his eyes opened. "Well, I'll be damned... You've pulled off some pretty good stunts in your day, Pard, but this takes the cake."
"Chris?" Vin's eyes were glued to the box, but he made no motion to touch it.
"I asked President Grant for a favor."
"Our President Grant?" Vin squeaked.
"No, the one from Canada," the blond teased, "He was glad to help, Vin, he assigned a whole team of guys from the Indian Affairs Office to track Teheno down."
"Well, that explains your frequent trips to the local postal authority," Ezra noted, "I thought perhaps you were courting young Mister Reynolds."
"Teddy?" J.D. wrinkled his nose. "With all that crazy red hair?"
"J.D.!" Nathan laughed, shaking his head.
"His wife wrote me a short note, the rest is for you, Vin. He's happy, married with a pack of kids, living in the Rockies. I gotta tell you Vin, I wasn't sure what to expect. If I'd have gotten bad news..." His thought was cut off by a single hand snapping up and gripping his forearm. Vin's eyes silenced any doubts and he nodded, grateful.
"It's m'wings..." Vin finally touched the inlaid eagle.
"It's a fine piece of craftsmanship," Standish noted. "He put many hours into making that. A true artisian."
"Thanks Ez," Vin managed.
"What do you mean, your wings, Vin?" Buck asked, intrigued.
"Right before the massacre, I's about to get initiated... uh... ya get put in the middle of nowhwere, naked with a knife. Ya gotta make shelter, traps fer animals, use 'em fer clothes and food... I couldn't wait... I'd work up a lather jes' thinkin' on it. Then I got sick..." he sighed, raked a hand through his hair and let his long fingers brush over the inlaid feathers. "I took sick a lot when I was a little feller..."
"Some things never change," Nathan grunted.
"...Teheno told me we'd do it after he come back... I was fired up... nobody wasn't gonna tell me what t'do..."
"Uh-oh..." J.D. shook his head.
"I snuck off... found a spot we'd hunted in 'afore and done it..." He laughed, sipped his beer and his eyes softened. "By the time Teheno found me... I was sick as a dog... fevered, coughin' up stuff... but I done it... and told him so..."
"I reckon he wasn't too happy," Chris grunted.
"No, he wasn't..." the Texan smiled again. "He didn't say nuthin'... but I think I grew two inches right then and there when he plucked me up by the neck and planted me on the horse." He blushed a little when they laughed. "I was pretty sick for a couple days, he never left me. I heard him talkin', he thought I was asleep. He... said... he...was... pr...proud..." Vin stammered, chest tightening. "...that'd I earned m'wings and once he got back, we'd ride... together..." He stopped then, feeling the tears burning in his eyes.
"Why the box?" J.D. asked , eyeing the beautiful piece.
"I was always bringin' stuff home... rocks, bones, arrows, bit's o'glass and metal, feathers, beads, anythin' I could tote. I made a little leather pouch t'keep 'em in, but it got full up. So, Teheno told me when I got m'wings, he'd made me a box fer my treasures. Said they's little pieces o'me and it was important t'keep 'em. He never laughed at 'em..."
The others grew silent when he voice faded away. He eyed the thick letter and slid it inside his coat. Then he turned the picture over and a smile split his face. His shaking fingers traced the features of Teheno's face. He swallowed hard and felt tears in his eyes.
"...Ude bemmeen na?sunazaihkanna debizhi getaa suande sukam mugua." His voice was hoarse and raw. His jaw trembled and he bit his lip. He raised his emotive eyes, locking in on cool green ones, as he translated. He wanted, needed Chris Larabee to know, the words were meant for both of his 'brothers'.
"He was their strongest, protecting spirit..." The green eyes widened a bit and a single lip turned up. The blond head dipped ever so slightly in acknowledgment.
"Vin," Chris smiled, "Can I read you a part of my note?" He paused, the Texan nodded, his eyes glued to the picture. "They took the picture just for you. Teheno was going to bring the box himself, but he's sick.."
"Sick?"
That got the eyes ripped from the photograph.
"She said he's recovering, just too weak to travel. That letter, the thick one you got, is from him. She wrote this about that stubborn little cuss up front... 'The oldest, who is seven, is at his father's right hand. He is stubborn, has a hot temper and is much too smart for his breeches. He has given my husband silver strands in his hair! I think you will know by the set of his jaw and the color of the sky in his eyes, why we named him "Tanner' and why he is my husband's heart.'"
"Aw, hell," Vin smiled, sitting up straight and beaming. "How 'bout that? He named his boy fer me..." He lifted the picture and stared hard, "...good looker too... must be the name..." A comment which drew a round of snorts and derisive grunts. "Shut up, yer all jealous..."
"I don't know if the world is prepared for two Tanners," Ezra teased, "He is a handsome child, despite his name."
"Looks like you got another treasure for your box," Nathan complimented.
"Pass it over, Vin, we can't see it..." Buck wiggled his fingers, sitting next to Josiah.
"Yer hands clean? Ya ain't been scratchin' or fiddlin' with the boys, have ya?" the bounty hunter inquired.
"My hands!" Wilmington sat forward, "Ten minutes ago, you were elbow deep in cookies and cake."
"I cleaned up at the pump..." Vin defended, guarding his prize until he saw clean hands.
"She's pretty!" J.D. gushed.
"Now that is a woman," Buck admired, "You got a nice lookin' family there Vin."
"Uncle Vin," J.D. teased, elbowing the blushing tracker, who'd suddenly fallen silent.
Chris saw Vin's fingers pressign through his coat, over the letter. Whatever was inside was private and no doubt would cause high emotions.
"He sure has a fine family, Vin," Nathan noted, giving the photo back.
'Reckon, I'll put in inside, t'keep it safe." He flipped the lid up and his smile died. His eyes filled again and he shook his head. "Oh... God... Oh God..."
"Vin?" Chris leaned forward, peeking over the buckskinned shoulder. His smiled at the small leather pouch, with sides bound by uneven leather twists. Vin's slim fingers gracefully lifted the full pouch outside. A slip of paper fell out. The lettering was uneven, a child's scrawl.
"Musta got a cinder in m'eye..." Vin rasped, automatically handing the note over his shoulder.
"Yeah," Chris grinned, resting a hand on Vin's shoulder, before reading. "My uncle... thank you for the gift of your name. My father gave me this pouch... from the hands of his brother. I filled it with my gifts of the mountain. When you come to visit us... you can bring me gifts from your moutain. Tanner."
"Aw, hell," the blue eyes were about to spill. "Imagine that? Right from his heart... fer me... don't even know me..."
"You're wrong, Mister Tanner," Erza spoke wisely. "From his father's lips, I'd say he knows you quite well. Thus, giving such a gift was an easy choice."
Chris gave the gambler a hearty nod and cocked his blond head. Vin's fingers moved to the small pouch and he pulled the strings on top.
"It held up good..." J.D. commented.
"Hell, Vin, talent like that shouldn't be hid," Buck winked, "Town can always use another seamstress."
Vin smiled at both of them, before pulling a golden aspen leaf from the pouch. A blue marble came next, several arrowheads, a nugget flecked with gold, a long blue feather, a broken end of a pipe, a rabbit's foot and a long skin of snake.
"You're gonna have to get a new wagon," Larabee commented wryly, "Yours is already full of uh... treasures..." He teased of the 'junk' the sharpshooter collected in his humble abode.
"Ain't nothin' in there that ain't necessary!" Vin defended, despite the howls of laughter. He examined each object carefully, before replacing them. His fingers stroked the soft leather, as his mind went back in time. To a sunny day when a ten year old boy strung his pouch together and hung it from his belt. Suddenly the saloon seemed to get much smaller and the air was dense. He put the picture in the box and shut the lid. "...nice day fer a ride... think I'll ponder some by the river..." He paused by the door, overcome with emotion and drained. He eyed the faces, resting a lingering gaze on each one. "Thanks fer..." his fingers stroked the box again. "...wouldn't meant s'much if I opened it alone."
"That's what's family's for, right?" Buck said with a soft smile and got one in return.
"Reckon so, Bucklin," Tanner replied, nodding and slipping out into the daylight.
Chris arrived at his cabin, just befoer sunset. He eyed the chimney and saw smoke curling up. He took the saddlebags off and took care of his horse. He entered the house to the smell of rabbit stew and biscuits.
"Smells good..."
"Ought to... used a half bottle o'whiskey in it.." Vin dished out two plates and met his friend at the table. He had his second forkful to his lips, when he noticed the other man staring at him. He lowered the fork and paused, "I didn't read it..."
"It's none of my business, Vin, I didn't mean to stare..."
"I ain't got no secrets from you, Chris," he poured them each a shot of liquor. "I got a favor. You know I'm readin' good now. Books, newpapers anything with printin'. But the letter is girls' writin' all curvy and loopy. I can't make head nor tail o'it. Might as well be Chinese. After supper, I was wonderin', if ya ain't too wore out..." he paused again, "'course if ya are, it can wait..."
"Vin..."
"...tomorrow's another day an all..."
"Vin..."
"...waited this long... what's a few more days..."
"Vin!"
"What?" He turned to the stove . "...nothin' burnin'..."
"I'd be honored,"
"Thanks, Cowboy," Vin smiled.
"I'm sure Mary would print this up for you, in lettering, so you read it easier."
"Yeah?"
"Sure, she'd be glad to..." He nodded and began to eat. "Matter of fact, Gloria got new journals in last week. Maybe you could start one, telling Teheno about your life."
Vin thought for a moment, lingering on the words and toying with his meal. He looked up sharply, "Ya know, I been up in them parts...real pretty ridin'...make a nice trip."
"Pretty country alright"
"Maybe, when I finish my scribin'... I'd like ya t'go with me... t'deliver it. I want him t'meet ya..."
The invite didn't startle Chris, he'd heard it coming. But the choice of the phrasing went right into his gut. Vin didn't say he wanted him to meet Teheno, he said he wanted Teheno to meet him. That was a huge leap in faith and really hit him hard. He didn't realize the smile was coming, until the other man returned it. He nodded and saw the breath leave Tanner's lungs in a rush.
"You bringin' that damn mouth organ?"
"Ain't nothin' wrong with m'playin'...ya got a tin ear..."
"Deaf ear... thanks to that noise you shoot out of that thing. Never heard such a racket."
"Shut up, Larabee and eat."
The sat on the porch after dinner, two lamps on raised barrels giving them light. Chris read slowly, through the pain of Teheno's nightmare discovery, through the years he searched for his lost brother, the joy of falling in love and the wonder of holding their first child. It was letter full of hope and promise and in every word, Teheno's strong feelings were evident.
"I can't believe Spotted Owl survived..." Vin rasped of his grandfather's brother, "...thought they kilt 'im."
Chris smiled and flipped back two pages, rereadig a part of the text that stood out to him, "When my uncle told me what you had done, defending my wife and child with your life... fighting like a warrior for them, while they beat you and tortured you... I want you to know, I felt your spirit. It carried me through my dark days and guides me still. My sons and theirs after them will know of my brave little brother, whose heart is fearless and whose spirit soars like the eagle." He paused, watching Vin swipe his eyes. "That's some brother you got..."
"Yeah," Vin nodded, then studied the handsome face across from him, "I sure can pick 'im." He carefully folded the letter, tucking it into his breastpocket. He gripped Chris's hand long and hard, eyeing the man he admired so much. "Thanks, Chris, wasn't sure about how many leaks m'plumbin' would spill. When ya talk, it's like he's here." He shivered, "scary-like... can't explain it. I'll never ferget this..." he broke there, not trusting his voice. He ducked his head and took a steadying breath. He felt a single hand on his shoulder and a solid squeeze.
"Nice night for a walk, air might help you sleep better," Chris offered, knowing the younger man needed some time alone.
"Yeah," Vin nodded, stepping off the porch. "Think I'll count me some stars...might even pluck one down and bring it back fer ya!"
They paused on the crest of the hill, the expanse below them breathtaking. In the distance, snowcapped mountains surrounded them. A crystal clear stream rushed past, gurgling happily. Wildlife in every size, shape and color on foot and in the air, teemed in harmony. The golden aspen trees waved hello, sending a shimmering carpet of brilliant golden light for all the eye could see. It took their breath away.
Chris took his hat off , letting it drop onto his poncho. He saw Vin finger the leather pouch tied to his saddle horn. Inside, carefully wrapped, was the seashell, a gift for young Tanner. A good gift, the right gift, a gift of the heart. They rode a little further, Vin hadn't spoken a word all day. The closer they got to their destination, the more silent he became. He was nervous and edgy, unsure of what to expect. They he heard a sharp gasp and saw Vin slide from his horse, wordlessly handing the reins over. The keen green eyes scanned the horizon and then the face split into a smle. There, across the expanse of golden aspens, walking towards them was the missing piece of Vin's soul. The tracker's steps were hesitant at first, then they stood eyeing each other. Two right forearms clasped together. The older man reached a hand out and touched the side of Vin's face, then Teheno wrapped his missing brother in a bearhug. A single sob echoed over the pair, drifting far behind to where the other brother waited. The smile broadened, hearing Vin's cry and seeing the heartfelt reunion. He eyed the brilliant blue sky, the dazzling sun and the shimmering waves of gold then engulfed the reunited pair.
"You're wrong, Ezra," he whispered to the wind, awed by the powerful light radiating from the brothers. "Sometimes, all that glitters is gold..."
The End
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