Part Nineteen

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Zechs rode his horse away from the mine and away from Cannes. He was greedy, but he had principles. There were other ways to make profits. He had to go into town and se Lu before he left for parts unknown. He was sure Treise would shoot first and ask questions later. He had it coming. What he did was dishonorable. Zechs rode into town the back way, so he wouldn't be noticed. He went to the back door of her house, and tapped gently. He could hear her moving in the house. When she opened the door , he drank in her looks.

"Zechs! Are you crazy?" She hissed, and pulled him into the house. "Do you have a death wish, or what?"
"No, but I had to see you once more before I have to leave."
"I know you have to leave. I wish you didn't have to, tho. Maybe we can talk Treise into letting you live. Maybe , if you beg for ......"
"I will not beg."
" I Don’t want you go." She said , as she came to him. He wrapped his arms around her and hugged her.

" I know, but I don't have a choice. Can I stay here with you, tonight?"

She sighed and nodded her head. One night with him was better than nothing.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dorothy waited till the house was empty. She packed a small bag, went into Triese's office and stole some money. She had to get away. Away from here, away from Cannes. She wasn't sure what he would do to her but she didn't want to chance it. Better to alive, and run away, then a dead hero. She had only two regrets. She hadn't got any of the gold and she couldn't kill Duo Maxwell. She wanted to, tho. She wanted it so bad she could taste it. There was no way she could do that now. If it hadn't been for that damn Schbeiker girl, she probably would still be in Cannes's good graces. She counted the money she had and went out to the barn. She picked a black horse and saddled him up and rode away at a fast gallop. She rode half way down the road from Treise's house and stopped. She turned and looked at the house. Where was she going to go? She had no other relatives other than her uncle. Then a thought hit her ,the cabin were all of this started. It would be a good hideout. She nodded her head and kicked the horse in his sides.
She rode up to the cabin cautiously, unsure if it was occupied. Seeing nothing, she dismounted and went to the door. She pushed it open, only to have someone grab her wrist. She screeched loudly. Cannes pulled her into the cabin.

"Well, well. If it isn't my little Dorothy. I heard the wonderful uncle of yours bailed your sorry ass from jail. What brings you here, little girl?"
Dorothy looked at him in shock. She stammered, "Hiding."
"From whom....Oh ...me, eh?" He laughed at her discomfort. "Well, It didn't work. Would like to make amends for your mistakes, Dorothy?" He asked sweetly.

She nodded, afraid of him. He still had a hold of her wrist. He pulled her close to him, so close she could smell his sweat. She swallowed so’s not to gag.

"OK, Missy, Here's what you will do. You'll break the rest of the gang out of jail, then you will return here

and wait for me. I would do it myself, but I have somewhere more important to be. We will do this in two weeks, when that wedding between Maxwell and that Schbeiker girl takes place. You got that, Dorothy?"

She nodded and he leaned in and kissed her. She instantly ran her hand across her mouth. She made a horrible face and he started to laugh.

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Cannes hung around the mine site, hiding in plain site. He wandered around looking buzy and important. He had ran into several of his old friends and he talked to them about a riot. They then could escape. He also had another plan but he wasn't going to tell them that right away. He had to go to Sackville and break out his gang. He also needed to hunt down Zechs Marquise. No one ever desserts him. NO ONE!!! He was going to watch very carefully in the next few days and see when they would ship the large shipment of gold over to Bulletsville. There was a train there. Trains were a bitch to rob, and he didn't like robbing them. Wagon trains were a different story. He had to work this plan out in his head before he told anyone else.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dorothy hung out at the cabin. She knew if she left, he would hunt her down. She would be patient. She would be ready and take her revenge.

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Duo came out to the mine with Hilde everyday to watch the progress of the clean up. He couldn't ride his horse so they came in the buckboard. Heero shook his head. The guy was a workaholic. Hilde couldn't keep him down. Heero knew Duo felt responsible for this accident, if it was an accident. Once it was totally cleaned up they would know. Trowa and Quatre were talking off to the side when some of the other convicts carried out several bodies. They stepped out of the way as they laid them down. Quatre shook his head.

"What a damn waste. Too many lives lost."
Trowa just shrugged his shoulders.

Duo asked one of the convicts," How many so far?"

He looked up at Duo, and said "15, for now."
"Damn."
The convict looked up at him, "Why do you blame yourself for this? We all knew the risks when we volunteered for this job. I would have done anything to be outside. So would have most of these men. Now, these men are now really free. We all have earned less time on our sentences by coming here. " He stepped up to the wagon and said, quietly. "I'd watch my back, tho. There are plenty of men here that would like to kill you, but there are just as many who have great respect for you. Those men will be there when you need them. Like now. Just keep that in mine." He turned away and went back to the mine.

Duo looked at Hilde and frowned. She looked back at him.

Heero trotted Zero over to the wagon. He pointed to the bodies. "Do you know them?"
"Yeah," Duo sighed and Wrote down each of the bodies names. He would have to send the list to the governor and wait for the bastard to let him know how to contact families.

Heero asked another question that took Duo by surprise. "Where do we bury them?"

"Wha....."
"We have to bury them. We can't wait for the governor, or ship them back to him. They would be ripe before they got there."

"Oh, yeah. Good point." Duo looked around. He saw a hollow and pointed to it. "How about over there?"

Heero nodded and picked out a few of the men to start digging a trench. It would have to be a mass grave.

He watched them dig for a minute, then turned back to Duo.

"Have you got your suit for the wedding?"
Duo looked up at him, "Suit.? Uh, " He looked over at Hilde, then back to Heero. "Uh, No, not yet."
Heero chuckled, "Getting cold feet, Maxwell?"
Duo glared at Heero, then looked sheepishly at Hilde. "I haven't had time."
Heero said, "Well ,as best man, You will have your new suit by Saturday." He winked at Hilde, who grinned. "Come on, Did you think we'd let you get married in blue jeans and a flannel shirt?"

He looked down at his clothes, "Hey, what's wrong with my clothes?" He protested.

"They're fine for work, but not for something as important as a wedding. YOUR WEDDING. The only one you will probably have. You DO want it to be memorable. I remember Relena's and mine. I won't ever forget it"
"Oh, Heero. You really are a romantic. "Said Hilde, smiling.

"Naw, it was a drunken brawl.!"

Hilde rolled her eyes, and shook her head. "Men!" She sighed.

Duo leaned over and grasped her hand. "I'll get the suit, don't worry, Hilde."

They watch as the last body was brought out. They moved them all to the open pit and placed them in it. Duo sighed, * Twenty men had to die for this. This had better had been an accident. * He frowned. * But what if it wasn't. Who could have done this? *

They then covered the bodies and Duo said a few words over them, then the guards moved all the rest of the men to their sleeping quarters. Only a hand full of men were left to finish digging out the mess of timbers. Heero went inside with them and watched the last of the work to be done. Suddenly one of the men shouted and Heero ran to him. He handed Heero a piece of the timber. There were several notches in the wooden beam. Heero nodded , It was just as he thought. Sabotage. He hefted the piece to his shoulder and carried it out for Duo to see.

He dropped it in the wagon and looked at Duo. "Stop blaming yourself for this. It was sabotage. Plain and simple. Now we have to find the guilty party. I really have a good idea who it was , but he's not suppose to be here."
"Cannes."

"Give the man a prize, Hilde. YOU got it on the first try."
Hilde leaned over and kissed Duo on the lips. "Nice prize, " He muttered, then said," Why?"
"Maybe, he's still pissed that you stopped him."
"Well, hell. The only way we're gonna get rid of him is to kill him or jail him......which ever happens first."
"I Reckon, that's how it'll be."

Saturday, the big day..............

Sally walked though the house, checking everything. Everything had to in it 's place. Lady Une had been out the evening before, and helped decorate. She had told Sally about Dorothy's disappearance and how Triese was worried sick. She had literally vanished without a trace. Sally made her rounds, then walked up the stairs to Hilde's room. She heard the two men bantering in the other upstairs bedroom.

"Heero ,Quit fussin'. My tie's straight."

"No, It's not. Damn it, Duo ! Hold still."
"Are you sure I'm doing the right thing?"

"Having cold feet, Duo?"
"Uh..No....well, maybe. She doesn't need me."
"What about you.? How do you feel about her? Do you love her?"

"I....I can't live with out her. I gotta have her here with me all the time. I love her, forever."

"Then, yes, you are doin' the right thing, Duo. She needs you as much as you need her."

"She's so strong. Hell, I'm just a nobody."
"Not to her, you aren't. So, get your boots on and let's get down stairs and get you hitched."

He grinned at Heero, and nodded, " Yeah, you're right."

"I'm always right!"

Sally paused at the door and grinned after hearing the conversation. It must be a man thing. This cold feet thing. She left and went on to Hilde's room. She tapped on the door and opened it to see Hilde pacing back and forth across the room. She had the dress hitched up above her knees. She was muttering softly to her self.

"Hilde, what's wrong?"
"Should I be doing this?"
"Why not? Don't you love him?"
"Oh, dear god, Sally! More than life itself... I don't think I could live without him."
"Sweetie, you just answered your own question. Come on. It's almost time to do this. Turn around and I'll finish up those buttons."

Sally chuckled. Well, it wasn't just a man thing.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The garden wasn't quite in bloom, but it still was a nice day. The sun was out and shining brightly. There were a few clouds moving through. Sally looked up and hoped the rain would move in later in the evening. She saw the men standing in place waiting. She motioned for Relena to get ready. Sally walked out and went to her position opposite of Wu Fei. Relena walked out next. She positioned herself opposite of Heero. Then Hilde walked out. Duo's eyes opened wide as he looked at the woman he loved. She was radiant in the cream-colored dress. The small seed beads sewn around the neck and sleeves sparkled in the sunlight. She took his breath away. She walked up and stood next to him. He looked at her, barely hearing the preacher as he spoke. Duo answered the questions in a total daze, thinking only of Hilde. She, too, was smitten by him.

When the ceremony was over and the preacher pronouced them husband and wife, introduced them and told Duo to kiss the bride the crowd gasped at the passion between the two of them. Heero nudged Duo and whispered to him, "People are staring. Save it for later."
Duo released Hilde from him and pulled her close to him, possessively. Sally made sure the food and the champagne flowed freely. Duo and Hilde stood back, enjoying each others company. The party was well underway when the sound of a horse pounded into the yard. Duo looked to see the kid Bobby stagger into the party. He was covered with blood. Duo ran to him and grabbed him before he collapsed .

"What the hell happened?" He asked practically, shouting.

"Riot..... Mine...... h...hurry." The boy stuttered, before he passed out.

Doctor J was at Duo's side , looking at the wounded boy. He took him off Duo's hands. Duo stood up and hollered at Heero.

"HEERO! WE'VE GOT TROUBLE! "

Heero looked at Relena and she nodded.

Duo went back to Hilde's side and leaned down to her face, "Sorry, babe." He whispered as he kissed her. As soon as the men took to their horses, Hilde picked up her skirt and ran for her room. She reached back and started to undo buttons as fast as she could. Soon Sally followed her up the stairs.

"Hilde, what are you up to, girl?"

"Hey, this is my fight, too. Help me." She said, as she struggled to get the rest of the buttons undone. Sally smirked as she helped Hilde. After she was redressed in jeans and a flannel shirt. She went to the closet in Duo's room and pulled down a shotgun. She reached up to a shelf, and pulled down a box of shells.

"Sally, grab your bag of medical supplies. We'll probably need your help." She turned and ran down the steps. Sally followed her.

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When the men got to the mine. There was screaming and yelling. The gunshots were random sometimes, and in rapid succession the next time. Quatre and Trowa rode into a crowd of convicts swinging the butts of their rifles at the men. Heero rode into a smaller crowd. Duo pulled his Henry from its scabbard and raised . he was looking for some one in particular. He didn't spot him right away. He turned and saw Hilde and Sally ride into the frey. He looked at her as she raised the shotgun in her hands.

From this point on, everything seemed to be in slow motion to Duo. He saw Cannes at the top of the hill. He had a rifle in his hands. He saw him raise the rifle and turned toward Quatre. Duo was about to shout, when Cannes fired. The bullet hit Quatre in the leg, almost toppling him to the ground. He heard Cannes laugh, and turned toward him. Duo raised his Henry and aimed at him. He stopped as he saw where Cannes was pointing the rifle. He started to kick Deathscythe as the gun fired. Duo screamed as the bullet slammed into Hilde's shoulder knocking her off her horse. Duo turned and fired the rifle at Cannes, but he was gone. He jumped off his horse and ran to his wives side.

"Hilde!" He pulled her into his arms, holding her close. He was trying to hold back his tears. Hilde raised her hand to his face.

"Duo, I'm OK. I'm OK. " She smiled up at him as she passed out in his arms.

Duo yelled in anger, and his face became hard. His eyes turned cold. Sally came to Duo's side and pulled the unconscience girl from his arms. Duo stood up and began to pound anyone who got in his way. He , then pulled out his hand gun and started to shoot down convicts. Heero saw that Duo was out of control. He jumped off Wing and ran to his friend. He punched Duo in the face, sending him spralling on the ground. It didn't take long to get order back at the mine. Several convicts had excaped, and several guards had been killed.
Heero went back to Duo and help him up. His face was still dark with anger.

"Dammit, Duo! Get a grip! Am I gonna have to hit you again? Get up, and get over to your wife. We'll find him."
Duo stomped over to Sally and Hilde. He knelt down to the ground and looked at Sally.

She looked at Duo and said. "She'll be OK, Duo."

Hilde was awake and looking at him.
"Duo."
He gathered her up into his arms and held her tight. "Dammit, Hilde, What were ya thinkin''

"Of you."

He leaned down and kissed he. It was starting to cloud over and Sally stood.

"I'll take her home."
"NO. Heero can you take care of things here? I'm gonna take Hilde home."

"Yes. Take Quatre with you. He has been wounded too."

Duo nodded to Heero. He got up on Deathscythe and had Hilde handed to him. She snuggled up to him and he wrapped him free arm around her.

His face set. * You will pay for this Cannes, YOU WILL PAY. I'll hunt you down like the dog that you are. But, Hilde comes first. * He looked down into her face and smiled at her. "It'll be all right, baby. It'll be all right."

Meanwhile, back in town, Dorothy was keeping up her end of the deal. She walked into the sheriff's office. She shot the guard on duty, grabbed the keys, and openen the door to the cells. She rattled the keys and unlocked the door.

She Said to them, "Meet at the cabin. Cannes has as a plan."

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Part Twenty

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The first spatters of rain fell on Duo as he carried the injured Hilde into the house. He looked up a t the sky and cursed. Sally followed quickly behind with Quatre, leaning on her heavily. Several people were in the house, when they burst in.
Relena stood up, and asked," What happened? Is Heero OK?"
Duo growled at her, "He’s fine. He'll be here in a little bit." Then he rushed up stairs. Sally brought Quatre in and sat him on the settee. Catherine stood up and went to him. Midii Une, Trowa's girlfriend, looked questionably at Sally.

"He'll be coming with Heero." Sally then tore Quatre's pants to look at his wound. She examined and stuffed a piece of cloth in the hole. She patted his shoulder. "You'll be fine, Quatre. It's minor."
He nodded at her and leaned back, letting Catherine comfort him.

Sally then turned to follow Duo.

Duo kicked the door to his room open. He walked over to the bed and placed her gently on the bed. He leaned down and kissed her cheek.

"I'm sorry, Hilde. I shouldn't have involved you in my troubles." He sighed.

She reached up and grabbed the collar of his shirt, and pulled him close to her face. "Why do you think this is your fault? Damn it, Duo, I did this on my own. You didn't make me do this. You worry way too much. This is nothing, " She said, meaning the gunshot wound." I 've broken my arm, and my ankle. It's the falls from the horses that about kill ya! So, stop thinking this is your fault. Get use to this, dearheart. I have a mind of my own and you will never know what I'll do next." She grinned," Like now!" She pulled him down and kissed his lips hard.

He joined her in the passionate kiss, when Sally came in the door. She cleared her throat and stood patiently by the door.

Duo turned toward Sally, but Hilde still had a hold of his collar. Sally came over to the bed and looked at Hilde.

"I see you feel better, but we better get that shoulder bound up, so's the bleeding will stop."

Hilde reluctantly let go of Duo. She sighed and laid back down on the pillow. She looked over at him when he vacated his spot for Sally. He walked over to the other side of the bed and sat beside her, taking her hand.

"I'll stay right here, babe."

Sally examined the wound and then cleaned it up. "It's a clean shot. Went right through, didn't hit any bones. You'll be fine. You'll have to stay in bed a couple of days, but after that ......." Her words trailed off, noticing no one was listening. She sighed and got up. She turned at looked at the couple. "You two get some rest. The rest of the crew will be soon."

Duo looked up at Sally, and nodded to her. He then walked to the window, knowing full well he could not go after Cannes. He had to stay with Hilde and the rain would wash away his trail. Luck was always with the bastard. Someday it would run out. He watched the rain a little bit more, then he turned back to Hilde. He kicked off his boots, and sat on the bed. His ankle was a bit swollen from being on it all those hours. He leaned over and kissed Hilde. She opened her eyes.

"Sorry, I must have dozed off."

He grinned as he looked into her eyes and said to her. "You know, we're a sorry pair, aren't we?"

She giggled and pulled him close to her. "Yeah, and I think I like it."
She kissed him as he scooted closer to her, wrapping his arms around her shoulder and waist.

"I love you. Hilde."
"I love you, too, Duo."
She pushed him away a little to look into his eyes, "You’re going to go after him, aren't you?"

He sighed, "Yeah, but it's going to be a waste of time. The trail will be gone by morning, besides you're more important right now. I'll find him someday."

"Hmm." She said, "You know he wants the gold........why don't you......." She trailed off when she was his face light up. She smiled.

"Hilde! Are you saying what I think you're saying? Damn, that's a great Idea. Usually we keep that stuff a secret, but............ I'll talk to Heero tomorrow, But right now............" He pulled her close and kissed her deeply.

Sally carried all the things she had used down with her. She was surprised when Wu Fei took the items from her hands. She looked up at him and he smiled at her.

"How is she? Maxwell all right?"
"Oh, She'll be fine. Duo, I'm not sure. He could still go off after Cannes." She said, as she looked around the room. "It's late. You can all stay here. There are extra rooms upstairs. You guys don't mind bunkin' together, do you? Heero, you and Relena can have Hilde's room. Wu fei and Quatre, there is a spare room at the end of the hall. And Catherine and Midii can bunk in my room will me." She looked round. The girls had brought all the food in and had done a good job of clearing up after wedding. "Well, this is one wedding day not too many people will forget. Hey, what happened to the kid?"

Relena stood and said, "The doc took him into town. Didn't know if he'd make it or not."
Sally nodded. She looked around at everyone, "I don't know about you, but it's been a long day and I'm exhausted. If you guys are hungry, the food is in the kitchen. Good Night." She waved and started up the stairs. Wu Fei followed her.

He stopped her before she went into her room. "Sally, what you did today was commendable."
She smiled and said, sarcastically, " For a woman, hun?'

"No. Wait... That's not what I ment. I......"

Sally turned and looked at him, "I understand, Wu Fei."
"No, you don't." He said as he stepped closer to her. He grabbed her arms and said, "Sally Po. I love you."

"What?"
He stopped her speaking with a kiss on her lips. He let her go, "Good night, Sally." He walked to the room he would share with Trowa and Quatre. She leaned against her door and put her fingers to her mouth. That was twice he had stunned her.

Downstairs the rest of the group wandered around the house. Trowa with the help of Catherine got Quatre upstairs to their room. Quatre relaxed on the bed and grabbed Catherine's hand. He pulled her close and kissed her. Trowa turned, and saw Wu Fei, who nodded. Both men stepped out and Trowa pulled the door closed behind him. Midii stood by the door . He smiled at her and pulled her down to Sally's door. He kissed her and let her go. She whispered good night to him. Catherine came by him and followed Midii into the room. She also said good night to him. He turned and went to his room.

Relena watched as Heero poured himself a glass of water from the pitcher on the counter. He turned and looked at her, "What?"

"Tell me what happened." She demanded.

Heero sighed, It was a clusterf**k, Relena. If I'd known what was going to happen, I'd really would have had second thoughts. As it is now both Duo and I are in deep shit. The governor is going to have our asses in a sling. Well, at least Duo will get his wish. He'll probably get fired."

Relena looked at Heero, frowning, "You mean to tell me he's still a marshal?"

He nodded.

Relena shook her head. "Leave it to Noventa to piss with peoples heads. He is a bastard."

Heero sighed and took her arm. "Yeah, he likes to control people. He's got Duo right where he wants him. Come on, Relena. Let's go to bed."
He lead her upstairs to their borrowed room.

The old mining cabin was full and rowdy. Cannes grinned as he looked around. When they moved that gold , he would be ready.

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Part Twenty-one

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Duo held her in his arms as she slept. He felt guilty that she'd been hurt, but to argue with her would be sinceless. She always said the right things and sometimes it irritated the hell out of him. She stirred a little and he pulled her closer, pushing his face into her neck. She softly sighed, and snuggled closer to him. Duo sighed, knowing moments like these were going to be scarce, soon. He would talk to Heero and then plan to move the gold out of the bank and to the railway station. He also had to explain to the governor what happened. Maybe some good would come out of this after all. He could get fired!! He still lost in his thoughts when Hilde opened her eyes and gazed up at him.

"Duo?"
"Hmm?"
"What are you thinking so hard about?"

He looked at her, all thoughts of the mine and gold gone from his head. "I'm thinking about making love to you." He leaned over and kissed her on the lips. She responded and kissed him back.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Noin watched as Zechs stood up and left their bed.

"I wish you wouldn't go. I love you, Zechs."

He turned to her and said, "I have to, Lu. At least for a little while. I love you, too. I promise I will be back."
He leaned down and pulled her into his arms and kissed her. He turned and left.

She lay there quietly until she heard the door slam and he rode away. Then she couldn't stop the tears.

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Relena slipped quietly out of bed, looking not to disturb Heero. As she stood to go downstairs, he reached out and captured her wrist.

"Where do you think you're going, Missy?" He said, pulling her back onto the bed.

She grinned at him, "No where, I guess."

He pulled her to him and kissed her. She wrapped her arms around him and lay back down.

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Later, that morning, everyone was in the kitchen, eating, when Duo turned to Heero.

"We need to talk after breakfast." Duo looked around the room. "Everyone just stay here. You all will be involved."
"The girls, too, Duo?" Asked Quatre, as he looked over at Catherine.

"Yes, This has to be a joint effort if we're going to get Cannes and his gang. The girls are going to be our messengers in a way. They are going spread the news that we will be moving the gold. Of course, they can be more subtle about this then we can." He raised his hands, in protest, at all the glares he received. "Let's face it, girls, you can do it much better than us. You have the knack. It is a compliment. If someone wants to know anything, they ask a woman, because, girls, you listen. We don't."

Relena leaned over and whispered to Hilde, "He sure has a way with words, doesn't he?'

Hilde grinned and said back to Relena," He 's a bullshitter, that's for sure! And I love him to death for it."

Relena nodded.

They all sat around and listened as Duo laid out the plan for them. Heero was impressed. This could work.

After several pots of coffee, they broke up and went on their ways.

Duo leaned back in his chair. He had to go to the mine and see the damage. He also needed to check up on the kid. He wondered how he would clean up this mess. He stood.

"Hey, Hilde, Are you up to taking a ride with me?" Sally glared at him, "I know...I know...bed rest for a couple of days."
"I think I feel fine enough to go with you. "Sally glared at Hilde, "Oh, stop being a mother hen, Sally. Save it for WuFei. Besides," she said, grabbing Duo's arm," This cute guy will take care me, won'tcha, honey?"
He grinned at her and said, "in more ways that one!"
"*Gack*. Stop it, you two, that's disgusting." She said laughing at them, "Get the hell outta here. I have things to do."

Duo grabbed Hilde's hand and they left the house. They rode to the mine, in quiet solitude, each with their own thoughts.

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Duo wasn't sure what to expect when they got to the mine, but he sure wasn't expecting what he saw.

"Oh, god!"

Hilde's eyes got wide, "what are we going to do about this, Duo?"

He shook his head, " I guess find out how many are still alive and here. And start burying the bodies. I don't know how we'll reopen the mine though."

She looked at him and saw the dispair in his face. She gritted her teeth, determined to find a way.

They dismounted and started to go through all the building that were still standing, or not smoking. They found 40 convicts huddled in one building, chained together. They were being watched by three guards that looked haggard and worn. The convicts looked up when Duo came into the room.

He looked at the guards, " Unchain them, they didn't run away before they're not going run now." He looked at them." Have you eaten?"

Most of them shook their heads. Duo looked at Hilde, who nodded and went to the cook shack to look for some food. Duo left that building and went to another. He found 20 more convicts. He lead them back to the main group, shaking his head. When he was all done with his search, he had found 100 convicts and 40 guards. The rest were dead , wounded, or had ran off.

He gathered them all together, "Can I trust you guys? I take it you were not involved with this riot?"

Most of them nodded. "Sir, we just want to serve our time and get out without the law after us, which would probably be you. You have a hell of a reputation."
Duo grinned, "Well, If I can trust you, I'll let you hand a free hand at getting this mine back up." He pointed over to the cook shack, where Hilde was. "You will report all doings to Hilde. She will be in charge of this place until I get back. And don't even think of crossing her. She'll shoot ya without thinkin' twice, then you'll have to deal with me. She's getting ya something to eat, then let's get this place cleaned up."

They all nodded.

It took most of the afternoon to clean up and bury al the bodies. Of the 500 hundred that come, they had lost 150 were killed or badly injured. The rest had excaped. Duo shook his head.

"The governor's not gonna like this." He said, quietly, not realizing he had voiced it out loud.

Hilde turned to him. "Yeah, well serves him right, sending these men to do this job. He should have hired men.." She stopped in mid sentence, looking to the ridge. "Duo, It that.....?"

"Yeah, I think so."
Zechs rode down into the mining area. Duo looked at him and frowned.

"Why are you here?"
"I came to apologize for all the trouble I have caused."

Duo was about to open his mouth when Hilde pulled him down and whispered in his ear.

He frowned again and said."Hmmmm. That's a good idea." He turned to Zechs, "I have a proposition for you." He paused as Zechs absorbed his words.

"How would you like to make amends for the trouble you caused?"
"How?"
"By staying here and Helping Hilde while I am gone."
Zechs thought about it for a moment and said, "OK."

Hilde turned to Duo, and said, "We can put them up at the bunkhouse at home, Duo. It will be warmer and drier than here." She waved her arm in the direction of the wrecked camp.

"If you think it will be OK?" He said looking at her in concern.

She smiled at him, "I'll be fine. Besides I'll have Zechs and Howard to look after me."

"Hmm. Yeah , you're right. We can't have starved and sick men working in the mine."

She nodded and turned to Zechs. "You and the guards get the men gathered up and we'll head back to our place."

Duo grinned as he watched his wife take charge. * My wife. * He thought as he stepped up behind her and gathered her into his arms. He leaned down and nuzzled her neck as he whispered in her ear. "I love you , Hilde."
She leaned back against his chest and sighed contentedly. "I love you ,too, Duo. When will you be leaving?'
"In a couple of Days, after the word has been spread around."

"Well, then, we better get this show on the road!"

After all the men were gathered up and ready to go, they headed to the ranch.

When they got all the men , including the guards and Zechs in their new home. They went to talk to Sally about the new guys and how to feed them all.

~~~~~~

Part Twenty-two

~~~~~~

Duo rolled over and pulled Hilde into his arms. He nuzzled her hair and waited for her to wake. He knew it wouldn't be long, as he began to nibble at her neck, placing small kisses down to her collar bone. She sighed and stirred, wrapping her arms around him.
"Morning, Duo."

"Hmm, morning, Hilde."

"Are you leaving today?"
"Yes, we need to bait Cannes and deliver the gold to the railhead."

She became quiet and thoughtful.

"Hilde? Something wrong?"

"Oh, nothing ...How long will you be gone?"
"A couple of weeks. The wagon will be heavy at first then it 'll be lighter."
"OK." She looked up at him, "Well, you have gold to deliver and I have a mine to run, so......."
He looked at her disappointed, "You mean I don't ......"
"Duo!!!!!!"

"OK! OK!" He said, laughing at her. "I'll miss you , babe."
"I'll miss you too." Hilde said as she pulled him to her. They hugged and then rose out of bed to prepare for the day.

Hilde quietly watched Duo pack his saddlebags and pick up his bedroll. She watched him carefully, taking in every movement, almost memorizing them. He turned to her and grinned. She smiled at him. They walked out of the house together. Zechs was waiting for them.

Duo kissed Hilde goodbye, then turned to Zechs, "You take good care of my girl here, and take care of the mine, too. I should be back in about two weeks."
He mounted Deathscythe and turned toward town. He waved one last time as he rode away.

Zechs turned to Hilde. "Are you ready to go, ma'am?"
She grinned at him, "Please call me Hilde. I'm not up to all that formality."
With that remark, the tension was broken and they started a friendly relationship.

Duo rode to the Sheriff's office and dismounted. He wondered if all parties involved would be here.

He opened the door and went inside. He was immediantly greeted by Treise, then by Quatre. The other three stood in the background, quietly.

"Well, Heero. What's the plan?"

"What?! I thought you had a plan?"
"Who me?" Duo said, looking surprised. He looked around the room and smirked. He grinned and said, "Yeah, I have a plan."

The whole room visibly relaxed.

"Well, what is it?" Asked Trowa, looking at Duo, with a blank look on his face.

"Well, we just ride out with the gold , shoot first and ask questions later!"

"What the hell kind of plan is that?!" Shouted WuFei.

"The best I could think of on such short notice." Duo said as he shrugged his shoulders.

Treise burst out laughing. "It'll have to work, It's the best we we've got, ......Unless any of you have any ideas?"

Everyone around the room looked at each other and shrugged their shoulders.

"Good ," Treise said, "Let's go."

They left the sheriff's and headed to the bank. After the gold was loaded on the wagon, they took off on their mission to capture Cannes and deliver the gold safely.

Hilde walked around the mining compound, looking at the mess. There was no way they were going to get their quota out at this rate. They needed more help. Hilde turned to Zechs.

"Will you be able to handle this alone, Zechs? I have to go to town and recrute some more bodies for the mine. "
He nodded as he watched her get on her horse. She rode out of the compound.

Hilde rode right to Relena's door. She jumped off her horse and ran to the door. Relena opened the door and saw her breathless friend standing there.

"Hilde!"

"Relena, " She gasped, "I need your help."
"What's wrong?!"
Hilde caught her breath and said, "Oh, nothing serious. I just need help getting more people to help at the mine."

"I'll help"
Hilde looked at her friend, "You can't help.....not in the mine. You're pregnant!!! "
Relena shot her an evil look.
"You know what I mean! Heero would kill me if anything would happen to you and the baby. But........Maybe you can help in other ways.........Like maybe you could convince other people this mine really is in their best interests....We could get the railroad to come. Then we wouldn't be just a spec of dust on a map."
Relena looked at Hilde thoughtfully for a moment. " I see what you are saying. Count me in! So what do we tell these guys? Will they get paid?"

"Yes. We'll make the governor pay for it. It's his fault all of this started."
Relena smiled thoughtfully and turned to the house. She came back out with her shawl and stepped beside Hilde.

"Let's get the railroad here and soon! Then our men won't have to go 50 miles through dangerous country and they will be home with us."
"You really are selfish, aren't you, Relena?"
"When it comes to Heero, damn right!!!"
Hilde grinned, "Yeah, I'm that way about Duo, too."
The girls walked to the mail street and gathered a crowd around them. Relena stood out among the people and cleared her throat. The people stood and listened to what she had to say. Several agreed to come out right way. Others had to think about it for a while.

Hilde smiled. Duo would be so proud of her. She told all the people to come to the mine the next day. Lu Noin and Catherine Barton came up to Hilde.
"Hilde! Can we come too?"
Hilde looked at her friends. "Yes, you can come and help."
The two girls grinned and head to their homes to get ready to go the mine.

With the extra people and lots of luck, they could get through this and get the mine back up to par.

~~~~~~

Part Twenty-three

~~~~~~

Duo glanced in each direction as he scanned the trail. He knew Cannes would come for the gold, the greedy bastard that he was. They had to be on their toes, he could attack at any time. The trip was going well. It had been three days into it so far and no trouble yet. Unfortunately, that was about to change. As they rounded the bend, they were ambushed! Duo was in the lead and as soon as he came into view a gunshot rang out. Heero saw Duo fall off Deathscythe and lay still. He pulled his rifle from its scabbard and started to shoot at anything that moved. It was for nothing. The men were soon overtaken by Cannes and his men. Duo woke up to a throbbing pain in his head. He moaned and tried to sit up. He was bound hand and foot.

"What the fuck happened?" He moaned, softly. "God, my head hurts."
"Stay still. " He heard Heero say, "You got grazed in the head by a bullet."
"Aw, man . How long have I been out?'

"Couple of hours."
"Shit."
Wu Fei leaned over and whispered , "How we gonna get out of this one, Maxwell?"
Duo laid back and closed his eyes. It hurt to think. His vision was blurry and he felt like he could puke.

"Leave him alone, WuFei. This was not his fault. It could have been anyone of us in lead." Quatre said, softly.
Wu Fei frowned and fell silent.

Duo sighed and said, "I'll think of something."
Trowa shifted his weight and looked around. "Shh, they are coming."
Duo closed his eyes. He heard the soft sound of footsteps in the dirt. He knew they stopped by him.
Cannes kicked him in the ribs, and he grunted at the impact.

"Rise and shine, sleeping beauty." He snarled as he kicked Duo again.

Duo opened one eye and glared at Cannes, "What the fuck do you want? Bastard. You have the gold and us. What more do you want?"
"I want to see you dead."
"You ain't got the guts, Little man. You let some one else do your dirty work for you."
Cannes face became beat red and he snarled and pulled Duo to his feet. Duo glared at him when they were face to face.

"You and I are going to take care of this right now. Untie him." Cannes let go of Duo's shirt and he almost fell to the ground, but steadied himself. "I think I'll beat you to death. I think I would get great pleasure out of that."
"You and who's army?" Duo spat at him.

"You little shit! Do you know how long I've waited for this?"

"No, and I don't care. You can beat the crap out of me, but you let them go. They have no part of this little perverse game you have been playing with me over the last year and half."

"Well, you see I just can do that. They are witnesses to the fact and .....well, I can't leave witnesses in my wake." He looked over to Heero. "Your sheriff friend would have to come after me, because I'm going to kill you. He wouldn't be able to let that go, you being a marshal and all. You lawmen have a really stupid code of honor."
"It's not stupid, Heero said, softly, "it's honorable. Unlike you. You have no honor."
Cannes walked over and kicked Heero in the side. "SHUT UP,YUY! I didn't ask for your comments, nor do I need them. Fuck, I'll just shoot ya all when I'm done with Maxwell here." He turned back to Duo.

Duo glared at him. His head was spinning but he still managed to stand tall.

Dorothy stood to the side and watched all this. She kept thinking, * I've got to stop this but how? * She looked around and decided she would free Heero first. She had to be extremely careful. She could not afford to get caught. She waited for Cannes to commence his fight with Duo. It would distract the convicts and the rest of the gang.

Duo and Cannes circled each other. Duo stayed back and waited for Cannes to make the first move. He knew he would. Cannes lunged at Duo swinging hard. Duo stepped back and landed a punch in Cannes Gut. He leaned over and grasped his gut. Duo stepped forward and was going to let him have another blow, but two pairs of hands grabbed him roughly.

One voice whispered in his ear, "It's not going to be that easy, Maxwell. You will be our entertainment tonight. I've been waiting a long time for this. Maybe Cannes will let me have a couple of minutes at you when he's finished." He then said louder, "We'll hold him for ya, Cannes."
Cannes straightened up and grinned. Duo could see the madness in the man's eyes. Duo struggled to get loose. His one thought was about Hilde as Cannes began to beat him unmercifully.

Dorothy walked up behind Heero. She cut his bonds and slipped his handgun into his hand. He looked up at her. She whispered to him, "I'm so sorry for all this trouble. When this is all done, I'm leaving and I won't be back. Uncle Treise will never forgive me." She lowered her head and a single tear fell from her eye.

Heero looked at her and whispered back, "Don't be so quick to judge yourself. Don't leave before I talk to you."

She nodded and went to WuFei. She released each man, muttering apologies to each one.

Treise embraced his niece and told he forgave her. That he under stood. She smiled and more tears fell as she hugged him back.

Heero looked up in the direction of the fight. He snorted, pretty much one sided fight. He could see Duo was slumped and probably unconscience now. It was time to act.

He jumped to his feet and started to fire rounds into the crowed of men , not caring weather he killed them or not. Trowa stood and fired also. As did Quatre and WuFei. The group began to scatter as bullets flew at them and their comrades began to fall. Cannes looked up as the two men let go of Duo. Duo crumpled to the ground. Cannes looked up in shock as he stared into Heero Yuy's gun barrel.

"Please make me shoot you." He said matterof factly, smiling slightly.

Cannes raised his hands quite unnerved by Heero's cold demeanor. He gulped. He really didn't want to die.

It only took a few minutes and everything was under control. Heero looked around the camp. They had caught more or the gang and the convicts. Now, he had a problem. He pondered it a moment then said.
"here's what we're going to do."
He looked around at all the men. They had come with a dozen or so. Heero turned to Treise.

"Would you and three men stay and guard these men? You have permission to shoot any of them who get out of line or try anything. Hell, shoot 'em if they get mouthy."
He turned to WuFei.
"Can I trust you to get the gold to the railhead, safely? I won't have to hunt you down if you try to steal it, will I?"
WuFei lowered his head and said to Heero. "Sir, those days are over. You can trust me."
Heero nodded. "You take Trowa and Quatre and six men and go now." He looked up at the sky. "It will daylight soon. You need to be on the trail."
Quatre looked at him, and asked," What are you going to do, Heero?"
"I'm going to take Cannes to jail, bring back a couple of wagons and take Duo to Hilde." He turned to Dorothy but she was on the ground next to Duo. She was leaned over him . Heero could see the sparkles of tears on her cheeks. She was whispering to him, "I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. Please forgive me, Marshall Maxwell." She sobbed out loud.

Duo stirred and rolled to his knees. He hung his head and reached for Dorothy's shoulder. "You're forgiven, Miss Catalonia. Now, help me up."
She smiled through her tears and helped him to his feet. He swayed a bit. She steadied him and they walked slowly to Heero.

"Can you ride?"
Duo nodded. Heero looked at his friend’s battered and bloody face.

"Hilde's gonna kill me," He mumbled through his swollen lips.

"Well, we'll find out. I'm taken you home."
"What? What about the prisoners and the gold?'

"It's taken care of. Dorothy, you will come with us."
She nodded and went to get her horse.
"And Dorothy," She turned back. "You will be watching Cannes. You can shoot him if he gets out of line."
Heero smiled again looking back a Cannes, who was sitting on the ground with his head down.

She looked at Heero and then Cannes, A small smile graced her features, "Thank you, Sheriff Yuy." She said softly.

It only took one day to get back. It was an uneventful trip. Cannes never said one word, but he glanced at Dorothy fearfully the whole trip. She never took her gun off him. And she was smiling.

Duo and Heero rode ahead of them. Heero watched his friend and made sure he didn't pass out and fall off his horse.

Hilde looked in surprise when she saw the men and Dorothy ride in the yard. She was outside getting ready to go to the mine.

"What the hell happened?" She demanded to Heero, as she looked at Duo.

Heero dismounted and looked at her. "We were ambushed, but as you can see we have won the battle this time. Duo and Cannes had a little fight and......."
" A little fight? Hell, It looks more like Duo lost!" She practically yelled.

"Well," He said, thoughtfully, "he was held down while Cannes beat the hell out of him."
Hilde walked over to Cannes and Hissed at him, "I ought to kill you myself. I would enjoy it so much. But, she sighed, I'll let the law do it." She turned from Cannes and Dorothy.

Dorothy spoke as Hilde walked away, "Miss Hilde?"
Hilde turned," Yes, Miss Catalonia?" She said coldly.

"I'm sorry for all the trouble."
Hilde looked at her," I can not forgive you , yet, Miss Catalona. Perhaps some day. But , not today."
Hilde turned away and walked over to Duo. "Come on, " She sighed. "let's get you into the house."
Heero helped Hilde get Duo into the house. Then she turned to Heero. "He didn't get the gold , did he?"

"No, we captured him and his gang..... the most of them. We did kill some of them and some ran away. The cowards that they are."
"Good," she said as she turned back to Duo. "I would have hated to see him take this beating for nothing."
"Oh, It won't be for nothing. Cannes will hang for his crimes."
Hilde looked at Heero as he turned to go. "Thank you."

He nodded and went out to Dorothy and Cannes.

Hilde looked at Duo. "You are a damn fool."
He tried to grin at her but his face hurt too much.

She shook her head and headed to the kitchen to get a pan to get some water to clean his face. Sally always had a teakettle with hot water on the stove. She poured some of that in the pan and went to clean him up.

Zechs stood back and watched as Heero and Dorothy rode away with Cannes. He smiled to himself. Perhaps thinks would be better now. He went to the house and knocked.

"Miss Hilde?" He asked. "Are you coming to the mine, today?" He knew the answer but he asked her anyway.

"No." She said, then she turned to Zechs, "Lu will be there. She's coming out with Miss Catherine to help out. I know how you feel about her, Zechs. Promise me you marry her. You are not going to have to leave now."
"I still have to make amends with Treise."
"Yes, I know. He will forgive you."
Zechs turned and left the house thinking about what Hilde had said.

Heero and Dorothy made it into town with Cannes, when Dorothy remembered something.

"Um...Sheriff. The jail has a slight problem."
Heero looked at her and said, "What would that be ?"
"One of the walls is down." She said to him, sheepishly.

"Shit." was all Heero said.

~~~~~~

Part Twenty-four

~~~~~~

Heero looked at Dorothy. "What do you mean....half the wall's down? What did you do to my jail?"
Dorothy grimaced and looked up at him. "I broke out the other prisoners....at Cannes request." She turned and glared at Cannes .

He just shrugged his shoulders.

Heero said, thoughtfully." I guess we can take him to the mine and chain him up there. That's where the rest of them are going. They will finsh out their sentences."
"Oh, why can't I just shoot him, Sheriff? It would solve most of our problems."

Heero looked at Dorothy and shook his head, "You really are a blood thirsty little bitch, aren't you?"

She scowled at him.

"Hey, don't get me wrong. I'd take it as a compliment. How would you like to work for Duo and me at the mine? We could sure use you."
She looked at him and grinned, "OK! Does that mean I can shoot people if they get out of line? I'll be a deputy?"

"Yes, technically speaking, to both questions."
"Yes," She said, clapping her hands together.

Heero shuddered. This girl was just too dangerous to be unsupervised. This way he could watch her.

Hilde watched her lover sleep. She shook her head and gently traced the curve of his jaw with her fingertips "Dumbass. " She muttered as she watched him. He stirred slightly and reached up to grab her fingers. He opened his eyes and pulled her fingers to his mouth, kissing them softly.

She frowned at him, "How can you do that? Your face is so battered, it's gotta hurt."
"It does, but I'd endure all kinds of pain for you."
"That's sweet but nuts...and I think maybe you are nuts...... and for that matter so am I ." She said, leaning down to quickly kiss his cheek. He would have nothing to do with that, as he turned his head so her lips would brush his. He kissed her passionately. When he let her go he looked into her eyes and said to her.
"I love you, Hilde. And will you let me up? We have to go to the mine, "

"Well, I love you ,too, Duo." She stood up and let him out of the bed. She turned toward the door. "Get dressed, Duo," She said, teasingly. "We have work to do! Oh, by the way," She said as she turned back to face him. "How will you explain this to your dear asshole governor?"
He looked and her and flopped back on to the bed." Why did you have to bring that up? I haven't a clue."
"Well, you better come up with something. He'll be here the day after tomorrow."
"WHAT?!"

Heero went back and got all the excapees and returned them to the mine. He arrived at the same time Duo and Hilde did. They greeted each other and set the convicts to work. Dorothy watched over them, her rifle aimed in their direction. They chained Cannes in the little mining shed that was the office. Then Duo told Heero about the governor's arrival.

Heero looked at Duo. "That’s your problem."
"Thanks you guys. What a bunch of great friends I have." He said as he pouted.

Both Heero and Hilde laughed .

Duo looked up and grinned. His grin faded when he saw a few of the townspeople come out of the mine. He was really floored when Noin , Catherine and a couple of other ladies came out of the mine. Relena came out of the cook house and ran to Heero.

"What are they, you doing here?" Both Duo and Heero said at the same time.

"Hilde asked us to come."

Duo frowned at Hilde. "Why?"
"I needed bodies to work the mine. I'll make sure they get compisated for their efforts."
Duo looked over at Zechs, who had just rode up and dismounted.

"You let her do this?"
"You told me she was the boss. So, what she does as boss, I go along with."
Hilde put her hands on her hips, and scowled at him.

Duo shook his head, "Well, I have to admit it took a lot of guts to talk these people to come up here. Good job, Hilde. Maybe Treise and I should make you the boss."
Just then Treise came over and said," Perhaps we should , Duo. With you being chased by crazy people and me with a ranch to run..... It would be a good idea."

Duo opened his mouth to make a rude comment, but quickly closed it. Sometimes it was just better to shut up. He had to worry about the governor.

Two Days later, the governor arrived at the mine. Most of the towns people had returned to town, quite content to let the convicts work the mine. Several of the convicts, who had ran away, slowly filtered back to the mine. They realized they weren't going to get far in the desolate country. At the mine they got 3 meals a day and a warm place to sleep. This was far better than out there. The mine was back up to full production and the governor was pleased. He had heard of all the trouble and was almost afraid to see what was happening. Duo didn't have to make any explanations. The governor still would not release him from his Marshal statis, but Duo guessed he could live with that.

Several days later, Trowa , WuFei, and Quatre made it back from the railhead. The gold had be shipped out safely and there was rumor that the railroad may come to Sancville because of the lucidity of the mine.

Heero and Duo hauled Cannes to the county seat for trial. It would be at least 3 months before that could be held.

Duo looked around the mine. Things were shaping up. The mine was doing well. Heero was waiting impatiently for the birth of his first child and Hilde had broke some news to him.

He was sure he felt like Heero had when he found out that he was going to be a father. He couldn't be happier.

~~~~~~

Part Twenty-five

~~~~~~

Heero paced out side the bed room. He could hear sounds that put the fear of god in him. He wanted into the room. Soon he Heard an smack and a baby cry. He sagged visibly. Noin came out and said to Heero. "You have a little girl, Heero. You can come in."
Duo reached out and shook his hand "Congratulations, Dad."

Heero shook his hand and said, "Your turn's coming."
"Yep, in a few more months. Maybe that damn trial will be over by then."
Heero nodded and went to see his wife and daughter.

5 months later, it was Duo's Turn. Heero grinned as he watched Duo do the same thing he did a few months ago. Duo didn't like be left out and the next time he would be in there with her. Duo could hear Hilde yelling for him, but he didn't think it was a good thing. He hoped she wasn't too mad at him and there would be a next time.

Sally came out holding small bundle. She shoved it into Duo's hands and pushed him into the room with Hilde. "You have a boy, now go see his mother, Dad."
Duo stood in the door way and looked at Hilde. She looked tired, but still held open her arms for him. He went right to her and gently held her and his son. His life was now complete.

Dorothy Cataloina went into the jail to visit Cannes. The jailers did not search her, much to their dismay later.

She sat across from him. He looked at her. "Why are you here?"
"Unfinished business." She said as she pulled the trigger of the small derringer she held in her hand. There was a small pop and Cannes slumped over the table. Dorothy stood up and turned away, whispering, "I told you I would kill you." She left the jail and disappeared.`

~*~

A.N.-The end of this part of Western Wing. The next part will have a new bad guy and the rail road coming to Sancville.

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