Flame: A Western Novel, #3

By Robert R. Green

A Western woman, Flame, loved living in the Hollows, an area in southwest Texas, until her new husband, Kent, was killed by a Longhorn. As expected she fell into despair, and felt that a change was needed…travel.  There was so much of the West to be seen.

 

Flame headed for places known for their unique scenery, along with a woman friend from the Hollows. She came across women being mistreated and abused, and couldn't help getting involved; often proving to be superior to mean, demanding men.

 

All the women learned the realities of life, before striking out on their own; but the biggest event was when Flame rescued Asta, a young girl of Navajo and European blood.  Their adventures, traveling with the rescued women, proved to be dangerous and challenging as they developed unique opportunities, while experiencing enjoyable and memorable times.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Robert R. Green
• Release date: Sep 11, 2020
• ISBN: 9781386720300

Robert R. Green

Robert R. Green graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison where he took a strong interest in writing and has been writing ever since. His first short story in Freshman Creative Writing earned him an A+. He held numerous jobs and served in the U.S. Army. During his life he has visited all 50 states and been privileged to travel through parts of over 70 countries.  He has lived in six states and temporarily in Germany. Although he has been writing various stories and articles in publications for more than 45 years, his books are recent additions in his life. Bob’s books include Longhorns and Other People, a series of short stories, and a second short story book titled, Everyone’s Different, followed by the most recent short story book, Just Like An Elephant. He also wrote a series of creative fiction action novels:  Under the Polish Moon, Discrete Justice, Silent Sentinels, Discrete Security, Breeda, and his latest, Beyond Breeda, the sixth in the Discrete Inquiries series. Bob, and his wife Barbara, now live in Arizona which he feels offers weather that is kinder to his body. You can contact Bob by email:  [e-mail].

Book preview

Prologue

Everyone in Peaceful Hollows was settling in nicely. It was spring of 1848. Art had built separate cabins for each family. They celebrated every time someone thought of a good reason; or no particular reason at all.

Flame, Jane and Erin were rescued in summer, from a group of outlaws and renegade Comanches. They were being held in the back, heavily forested area, of one of the Hollows. Upon their rescue, the families of the Hollows welcomed them and made them a part of the community. Since their families were massacred when they were kidnapped, they dismissed any thoughts of returning to their previous homes.

The first woman to marry was Jane, even though she was the least likely, in everyone’s opinion. It made no difference to Art the builder. Within weeks they had a cabin in Box Hollow; making Jane and her husband Sid Gates solid members of the community.

As time passed, Art continued to build cabins in the Hollows. Just as he felt like he

had caught up, Flame and Kent, her first friend since being rescued, announced their plan to marry. Just when I was catchin’ up, laughed Art. The next morning Flame, Kent and Art were in another part of Box Hollow, laying out their home; a reasonable distance from Jane and Sid.

Whenever anyone asked Erin her plans, she told them, that she loved living with Kathleen and Shane. Of course when I find a gentleman who begs me to marry him, I will also contact Art.

On one of the regular trips to Camp Verde to sell the army horses, Major Longstreet cornered Shane. First they agreed on the price of the horses; as Shane stood to leave, the Major said Just a moment, my friend, I have a problem. I have three orphans and I don’t feel my camp is the best place for them to grow up. Their families was heading west when they were attacked by outlaws. They did manage to hide their children, but the outlaws killed the parents and stole everything they had.

And now you are about to use your power making Kathleen and I responsible as their guardians; that about what you plan to say?

Almost to the letter. Barb, Jan and Kurt! the Major called.

Three good-looking and healthy young people came in; heads bowed as they entered the Major’s tent, They were dressed in the few things they had on when they hid from the outlaws.

The Major told them that he had found them homes, This is Mister Murphy. His wife found and trained a real wolf, who also lives with them. You’ll be going to the Hollows and become a part of families who also came west to live.

And, the Major forgot to tell you, he is giving each of you a horse, complete with saddle, canteen, even bedrolls; everything you’ll need. The families where you will be living will also see that you have more clothes and become a part of their home. And there are other young people in the Hollows, said Shane.

I think we’re done Major, so maybe you want to Join us for a meal. You three will get to meet several of my friends who helped bring horses here to sell to the Army. Then we’ll see how well you can ride. It’ll take us several hours getting home to the Hollows, Shane continued.

The young people loosened up at dinner. They met the others from the Hollows, ate huge meals and then, as the men had more coffee, Flame signaled the three orphans. They slipped out of the mess tent, almost unnoticed. Flame helped them all with their new horses, adjusting their saddles for the long ride to their new homes.

So here’s where you sneaked off to... said Shane, well, good thing. Are you ready to ride? Saddles and stirrups set for your legs; canteens full...

Kurt, the 14 year-old laughed. That’s one thing you forgot, Flame! He ran and was first over to the water wagon. Shane and the crew followed as did the young women.

Barb whispered to Flame, Better watch it; I think Kurt has a crush on you already. Flame slapped her on the butt. They got their canteens and followed along to get them filled.

Chapter 1

The trip back was fun. Barb and Jan stuck close to Flame, and Kurt stayed close to Shane. Much of the talk was about money. The three young orphans now had their own money. The soldiers found $500 in hidden areas of their parents’ wagons and Shane and Flame were pleased with the money they got from the sale of their horses. This gave the Gates, as well as Jane and Erin money from the sale of some of their new herds.

We did as good as ever on those stallions. They were top notch, said Shane. As they topped the last hill before Box Hollow, they saw Art and Tamu waiting for them.

Just then they heard a woman scream several times and beg to be left alone. Flame kicked her gelding and set him in a full out run toward the screaming. As she rounded the edge of Box Hollow, she was met by a small herd of their Longhorns. Pushing the cattle was a mid-sized man, well dressed in jeans and vest. He slipped off his horse, holding a whip and snapped it leaving a 7-inch gash along the crying woman face.

Please no more! I just said you should help that man who was gored by the bull. We can steal other cows...

I told you to shut up! One more sound and you’ll lay next to him on the trail! He lashed out the whip, tearing her clothes at the waist.

Enough, said Flame in a quiet voice.

Stay out of this bitch, He rolled the whip back behind himself. I’ll show you. As he brought the whip forward gathering speed, he screamed. Flame had drawn her .44 Colt and shot the man through the palm of his hand, including the whip handle. "Bitch! He screamed and drew his revolver. Flame’s next shot shattered the revolver’s grip.

Out of the corner of her eye, Flame saw Barb ride up holding her loaded rifle. Stay back....I’ve got this...go help that woman. Now you, lay down while you can. The ruffian reached for a gun where it lay near him My, my...you don’t listen. Flame shot twice, putting a .44 slug in each of the man’s ears. He again reached for the whip and sat up swearing. Flame shot him through his nose. She breathed deeply, holstered her gun and checked the man. He was dead.

Flame, this woman needs help. I got the bleeding stopped, but the whip tore off her clothes, said Barb. Flame checked the woman who lay crying. She went to her saddle bag and found a pair of jeans and a clean shirt. They helped the woman change and then gave her some water and jerky which helped her calm down somewhat.

Art rode over to Flame. There has been an accident, said Art. Kent got horned by one of the Longhorns. He said he was trying to stop a man and woman from stealing your Longhorns. We heard the shot. When we got here, Kent was struggling onto his saddle. We bandaged the wound, got him on the horse; then he left for the church. He must be there by now with Pastor Tom.

Barb, can you take this woman to our cabin? Tamu will show you the way, said Shane. He said to the woman, Ma’am, my wife Kathleen, will help you. Your man won’t bother you again.

She cried, He weren’t my man. He grabbed me in Vanderpool and brung me along. I don’t know nobody. I was runnin’ away from a mean man in San Antonio...Oh thank ya for helpin’ me. My name is Vi...Viola really.

Flame kicked her horse into a fast gallop. Barb rode right behind her since they had developed closeness during the trip back from Camp Verde. The two women slid from their horses and ran into the church. Barb took Flame’s arm and stood with her and Pastor Tom. After seeing Kent, the women sat in the back pew, taking turns listening to Pastor praying and crying at this unfair event. Kent called softly, so Flame hurried to his side. He took her hand as she bent to kiss him. Bye...love you Flame. He died.

The sun set and the women went outside, cared for their horses and then went to Leda’s cabin, where they slept a fitful night. The next day everyone in the Hollow came to the church for Kent’s funeral. Then those fit enough. climbed the hill to the little cemetery at the top of Foster Hollow for the burial. Barb stood with Flame at the gravesite.

Flame didn’t move when she felt a piece of fur. She knew it was Wolf’s first pup who was just like wolf in color and temperament. He had grown fast and now weighed about 80 pounds.

When Flame looked around, she saw Wolf, and five of his grown pups standing next to the grave. Flame’s wolf, Fang, was close to the grave. When the dirt was piled up over the casket, Fang howled; and was joined by all of the wolves; then together they laid on top of the new grave.

Jan and Erin stayed with Flame in her distress. Barb asked if she could stay, too. Let Barb move in on my side of the cabin, Jan. She has become a close friend over the past few days, said Flame. Fang walked up and sniffed Barb. The huge wolf cocked his head, licked Barb’s hand and moved over to Flame. Fang, gently crawled up onto the cot with Flame. Soon they were both asleep.

A cot for Barb, was placed next to the ladder that led to Flame’s loft. In all the excitement, Barb had forgotten about Vi. Sid told her that Vi was staying with Kathleen. She rushed over to see Vi and show her she was not forgotten.

As she approached the cabin, she heard laughter. At the doorway, she was greeted by Wolf who growled as he sniffed her. She stood still with her hand out. In minutes Wolf decided that Barb smelled like she belonged, so he lay down next to Kathleen.

Won’t ye come in and Join us? said Kathleen. We was just havin’ a wee bit of whiskey and home-made cheese before we had our supper. Come be our guest...I know you’re the friend of Flame; Barb, isn’t it? Shane got up and made the proper introductions and they all sat down to eat.

Two days passed with Flame adjusting to her loss and trying to accept what had happened. She was quiet and seldom entered into any conversation, even at meals. On the third day everyone noticed the old Flame. She was dressed early and helped Jane with breakfast. She appeared to have a purpose. After cleaning up the kitchen area, she went back to her loft, but only for a short time.

Barb!, Please come to my loft ladder. Here, reach up and take the rifles, I have two of them. Lay them down and I’ll lower a basket to you. Barb laid down the rifles and then reached for the basket. It was very heavy and contained many boxes of ammunition. Flame came down next. She had on a gun belt with two revolvers. I’m going out in the canyon and practice shooting. You may come if you wish, Barb. Get your horse. You come along too, Fang.

They rode back to a deserted ridge. Flame spent over an hour shooting each of her guns. Barb seemed amazed at her accuracy. Do you want to shoot, Barb? It never hurts to be prepared. Barb agreed, but silently wondered at the big change in Flame. They finished shooting and cleaned up the area. You do well, young woman.

Are you going to shoot like this every day, Flame?

Goodness no. I couldn’t afford it! The rest of the day I’m going to practice riding. I also have to check my horses and be sure I have a second mount, should I need one. Want to Join me?

Sure do, but I have only the one horse the Major give me. I hope that you tell me your plan soon. I know you must have one.

There are many horses. I bet Puuku will be pleased to help you find another if you want. I will be taking at least one woman with me; a right-thinking girl. As I said, I’m going to explore parts of the west where I’ve never been before. But now it’s time to go home, we’ll talk later. Seems I heared it’s somebody’s birthday so we’ll have a party; maybe even a dance. Beat you home!

Barb didn’t have a prayer of beating Flame, she was worn out when they got home. Flame was sitting in a rocking chair laughing, but Barb soon saw that Flame was puffing too.

Flame walked down to the steps and sat with Barb. What do you think; are you ready to add to your training by riding with me?

Yes, I really do. Still not sure why you’re working so hard, but I like being with you and becoming a real ridiin’ shootin’ woman cowboy.

Okay. Here’s my plan, but we are not telling anyone until we’re ready. And you should know, it will mean leaving the Hollows.

Forever?

I don’t think so, but maybe for a long time. You still in?

Guess so, now I’m more curious that ever; please tell me.

Since Jane, Erin and I were kidnapped, I’ve been nervous and uncomfortable. I guess the last straw for me was when Kent died. Anyway, now I’m ready...I plan to go to see more of the West. When I thought I was going alone, it seemed important to be sure that I could take care of myself. My shooting is excellent, so is yours...now I need to be the best horseman I can. Still interested?

For sure!

Then get your horse and we’ll go check my herd. I sold most of the best ones to the Army, but we can look. When they were ready, they rode down to the small canyon where Flame had her horses.

Now where you off to? said Shane as he rode up.

Hi Shane. I’m going to train me and my horses and see how well I can learn to ride. Barb wants to go with me, but she doesn’t have a second horse of her own.

I see. Well, you know you have money to buy a horse, and I know Puuku isn’t busy. I bet you could get him to take you wrangling with him and capture a horse, or maybe a few. Probably he’d do it for ten dollars.

Great idea, said Flame. I think I’d like that too. We’ll hire him, let’s go find him. They jumped on their horses and were off.

Look over at Spring Hollow. I think he’s with Turner! yelled Shane. The women changed their direction and waved to him.

When they got to Spring Hollow, they saw Puuku and Turner working with two stallions. Let’s wait here Barb. We will probably learn a lot just by watching. They slid down and sat on a hill watching.

Did you see that! The stallion almost knocked Turner and his horse over. Listen to Puuku laugh! The women sat watching for a long time before Puuku glanced over and motioned for them to come down.

*****

Flame, Barb, Puuku and his woman, Passwi’loo, spent four days hunting for horses. Puuku shot a small doe and Passwi’loo prepared it. They spent their first night smoking the meat. She taught Flame and Barb how to find wild onions and cattail roots to add to the evening meal.

The second night, she brought a roll of a cured deer hide from her saddle bag and lay it on a rock. As she opened it they all saw a white powder.

With a cup made from a gourd, she mixed up some of the powder and water making a paste. She dropped balls of the mix on a flat hot rock set over the side of the fire. Passwi’loo took her bowie knife and laid it on each ball and flattened them into a thin round cakes.

In a short time, she added strips of venison along with the cakes as she turned them with the knife. We eat Each of them had a tin plate and cup. Passwi’loo flipped the cakes and some venison on each plate. Eat deer and flatbread. Then she poured coffee, that had boiled in an old black pot that sat on another rock that overhung the fire.

Oh, so good! said Barb. I think I’ll go live with them, Flame.

Passwi’loo said, Next food you cook.

Flame laughed. They cleaned the dishes, cared for the horses and spread their bedrolls near the fire. Puuku smiled. He knew they would capture horses the next day because he had seen their sign from two small herds.

Barb jumped as something pulled her leg. Flame laughed. She was watching as Puuku pulled Barb’s leg. Passwi’loo smiled from her place by the fire. The coffee was made and she had a stack of her Indian frybread on a rock over the fire keeping it warm. Barb ran to the bushes rubbing the sleep from her eyes. Next, she washed up in the creek and ran back to the fire.

Passwi’loo, you have a very mean man. Maybe we can leave him somewhere in the woods.  

He much smart...know all trail in woods and come back fast...eat! After eating and cleaning up the campsite, they all saddled up and followed Puuku. He lead off on one of the trails they had ridden the day before. At his motion, they all stopped.

Much horse ahead, eat by stream. We push horse down trail. Flame and Barb keep them go right...go in box canyon. With that he kicked his horse in the ribs and raced ahead. Passwi’loo stayed with him while Flame and Barb pushed the herd to the right. They entered a small canyon. Puuku stopped and blocked the trail. We wait.

The herd finally walked up to the small spring. There were two stallions who watched the humans and stayed between them and their mares. Puuku took his lariat off his shoulder, made a loop, and rode slowly toward the largest stallion who screamed and pawed the ground.

Puuku lassoed the stallion and then stayed with him as he tried to get away. It took a long time, but finally the stallion tired. Flame, rope black mare with colt. After three tries, Flame had the mare and stayed with her as she ran all through the little canyon. When she tired, her colt ran to her. Good...now we walk, Puuku said. They spent the next 30 minutes just walking the roped horses.

Now go to Hollows. Passwi’loo and Barb followed and kept the other horses from leaving the herd. They moved the herd of 14 to Flame’s corral. When the new horses were in the corral, Barb fell off her horse and just sat on the ground. I’m so tired, I can’t move. They all laughed.

Jane and Sid sat on their porch and watched. Sid went to Barb, picked her up, and laughing hard, carried her over to Jane. Then he went back and unsaddled Barb’s horse, rubbed him down and turned him in their small corral. Jane brought him cool water from their well and they all sat looking at the horse herd. Puuku noticed