Chapter 2 - What have happened then/what is happening now?
Fireball left the shower, one eye on clocks. Still more then 20 minutes. Now must be Eagle thinking, who will the new member be. Last opportunity to speak with Colt and April alone. Fireball decided. Entered the kitchen and stopped Colt beginning round number 74...whatever.
"Colt, please sit down, we have to speak."
Colt looked like waking up from a dream.
"What?"
"Just sit down. Where is April?"
"Don't know, maybe in her chamber."
"April!"
No response.
"April!"
Still no response.
"APRIL!!! Please come here. We have to speak."
April came to the kitchen, no tears left.
"Speak? And what about? He's dead." she said quietly.
"Yeah Turbofreak. There's nothing to speak about."
"Come on you two. We all know, it's not true. For a month we were hiding one for the others. Now the time has came. This is our last opportunity. We shouldn't waist it."
April looked perplexed for a moment.
"Fire, what exactly do you mean with last opportunity?"
"In 20 minutes we will become a team again. I don't know who he or she would be, but I'm sure, he would not give us a lot of free time and there are some things, we just cannot mention in front of him."
"Hm. Maybe you are right Fireball. Dad said yesterday, we should not treat our new member as a greenhorn and let him out of everything."
"Yes, that's exactly, what I mean. Now both of you have to agree, that something wrong is here."
"Of course Turbofreak, our best friend is two meters under ground. Is it enough wrong for you?"
"Calm down Colt. After you mentioned it Fire, you're right. After our great victory Saber acted rather strange and the last month..., it was strange itself."
"I have a suggestion. Let's go chronological. What was the first strange thing we remember?"
"Saber, after we arrived to the village in desert?" Colt decided to join the conversation in a more productive way.
"No, it started earlier, I'm sure..." was Aprils opinion.
"I don't know, if you two noticed, but I would say, it started after defeating the outriders or maybe even during the war. He looked like something was chasing him and the weight of the world was lying on him."
"Yeah Turbofreak! I-I remember. I thought he's just exhausted from events before. Then he left for a two weeks of holiday in Highlands and returned even more exhausted. I can see his face now right before me. Pale skin, dark circles round the eyes. I had spoken to his parents, asking them what happen. They looked really surprised, because Saber wasn't at home for near a half year. Can you understand that?"
"Maybe he was at Sincia?"
"No April, that's nonsense. But let's continue. Next two months he was trying to pretend, everything is OK. I tried to talk with him, but..."
Fireballs face reddened by saying that sentence.
"Anyway, have you noticed someone suspicious during that period?"
"If you don't count the journalist..., but one of them was really strange. He didn't looked like a journalist and was interested in every detail about Saber."
"Colt, do you remember him?"
"Sorry April, I cannot even remember his face. I'm sure, if I hear him again, I'll recognize him."
"Then, it looked like Saber calmed down for a while. Teaching on Academy consumed him fully. The end of the idyll came together with command to go to the small village in desert and fix the troubles there. Some of the people said, they have seen Jesse Blue."
"Yeah, his mood has turned by 180º. Turbofreak, I don't know how to say it, but ahm..., Saber looked different, then before, I mean, not scared or so..."
"Not scared, rather expecting something."
Colt clasped his hands. "That's the right expression Turbo. But what?"
"I don't know, what was he expecting, guys, but if you remember, he ignored us totally. Even you Fireball."
"April" asked Fireball suspiciously "what are you trying to say?"
"You never noticed? He was always observing you and sometimes treating you like he, ahm..."
Fireballs face became an interesting expression.
"Fire, I know it must be surprising for you, to find out our boss has not been straight and you were his object..."
"We hoped, at least you will never notice, April." said Fireball with a quiet voice
"Don't tell me you two were together! Wait a second! What does it mean at least I will not? And what about Colt here?"
"I'm sorry April, dear."
"You knew?"
"I found them one day kissing. Really disgusting, you can believe me. Now we should take it as it was. They were in love and-" Colt could not end talking, like he was hiding something.
"Why have you never told me, Fire?"
To "his" astonishment, Fireball realized a very unexpected tone in Aprils voice. It sounded like relief. "I'm sorry April. It is much more difficult than you think. One day, I will tell you everything, but now-"
"Hey, Turbofreak, that's the same answer Saber gave me that day. Don't you think, slowly you could tell us the whole story?"
"No, this is not the best time. Soon, I promise."
"Fire, we know each other pretty long, more than a year now, you can trust us."
"I'm really sorry, but April, may I have one question?"
"Of course."
Fireballs face became concerned for a second. "Are you confused, because, it seemed I have betrayed you, or because it was a secret and you were not involved?"
April waited with answer for a while. It looked, she was thinking. "Fire, both of us know very well, our relationship could not last very long. To be honest, I felt even dirty, because it seemed, I took Saber his love away and then could do nothing. I felt sorry for him. To love somebody and nothing becoming for it. Now..."
"Hey, you too, it's real cute, but we' re wasting time with this romance. Eagle will be here any minute. Back to Saber. That one day, he said, he's going to make his head clear in desert and left and, and..."
Tears occurred again in Aprils eyes, but also those of Colt and Fireball. Fire first wiped "his" eyes. Colt continued. "He left and some hours later, we found him dying. He said, it was a snake and we should not be worried, it's OK...he tried to be the hero to the end." Colts voice slipped. Something was terribly wrong there. Something, something...
"I've got it!" suddenly Fireball said. "Colt, please, explain me one thing. If a snake attacks, where?"
"Fire?"
"I mean, attacks he head, trunk, limbs..."
"Feet of course."
"That's it. Come on! Saber was wearing his armor that day. Show me a snake, that could bite through it!" Fire was screaming the last words.
"Bloody hell! And I'm sure Topsword knew who or what has attacked him! But why was he covering him?" Colt has now looked really concerned.
"And there was no doctor in the small village. That young women...April you found her. How?"
"So, as we found him laying on ground, you Colt, you started to scream for a doctor, so I ran as fast I could to the village. People said, there's no doctor, when that woman came and offered her services. She said, she's not a doctor, but maybe she could help. I took her to Saber."
"Yeah, we told her what happened. She tried Sabers pulse and said only, she's sorry."
"Right. But tell me, can at least one of you remember her face?"
Both Colt and April looked surprised.
"Her face? Well Turbofreak, I can remember her voice quite good, but her face? Now after you mentioned it...no. But why, why?" Colt was murmuring to himself for a minute. "I know why! She was wearing a hut, that covered the upper half of her face!!"
Fireball breathed in. "So, we can add her to our list. Continue Colt."
"We buried Saber without any doctor having an eye on him." Three sighs and a minute of silence. "Now am I asking why?"
"Because the mysterious woman said, there lives only one species of poisonous snakes and their poison causes a fast decomposition of the body."
Fireball looked, he was really thinking about it. "Maybe April. Any way, after the funeral we all became drunk pretty fast, so I don't think anyone of us can tell, what happened that evening. Morning, one of the locals decided to improve our hangovers and said Satanists were on the cemetery during night."
"Fire, do you really think, Satanists have done the devastation on cemetery?"
"Don't know. The pentagrams on Sabers grave speak for it. Maybe we should start to collect more information. This is becoming more and more interesting every minute. I also remember, there was a doctor in Cavalry, who ordered the exhumation of the Sabers body. What have he found?"
Suddenly, steps and a familiar voice could be heard in Ramrod.
"Anybody here? Children, where are you?"
Colt could see their visitor as first. "Oh, April, it's your dad and he's not alone. We have to finish the conversation later." he hissed quickly.
"Dad, we are here, in the kitchen."
Commander Eagle entered the kitchen with serious expression an his face and a young man behind him. "Hello children! What are you doing here?"
"Just talking, dad."
"Good, lets go somewhere, where it is more comfortable. Ah, maybe here. Sit down everybody, you too John. So, how to start? I understand, that what happened was very painful for all of you. We all regret the loss of Saber Rider and I don't think, someone will be ever able to replace him. This is the end of your Starsheriffs team."
Eagle made a small pause to inspire. He looked his small audience and tried to read from their faces. *Children, children, this will be very hard for you, I know. You are not showing any emotions. That's a bad sign. What have you for a plan? I'm sure, you were talking about Saber. To what conclusion did you come?*
"But there is still danger here and we can't continue like this. A new team has to be formed. It took more then two weeks, this decision. Fireball, you will be promoted to rank of captain and will become a new leader. Rest of you will stay on same posts as before.
And now, this will be the new member of your team, lieutenant John Walters. He absolved the Academy, worked for two years in one of our bases. During the war, he became one of our bravest soldiers."
When hearing his name, lt. John Walters stood up. He was middle height, lean, muscular, with an indefinite shade of brow hair and cold blue eyes. His body speech was announcing to everybody: "I'm a soldier, put your hands away!" He could be not more than two - three years older than our heroes.
"Let me introduce" continued Eagle "first, the new boss of the team, captain Shinji Hikari, also known as Fireball."
John extended his hand. "Captain Hikari?"
Fire accepted it. "Welcome in team. I'm looking forward on our cooperation."
"So, do I, sir."
"Bill Wilcox, responsible for shooting, hunting, tracking, usually using nickname Colt."
"Mr. Wilcox?" Lt. Walters offered his hand the same way as to Fireball before, only the tone of his voice became much, much colder.
"Nice to have you in team, partner."
"And my daughter April, engineer and one of the constructors of Ramrod, responsible for navigation and communication."
"Miss Eagle, my pleasure." Even an iceberg would show more emotions, than the new member of the team.
Atmosphere became choking. It looked like nobody will start the conversation, so Eagle decided there's time to continue.
"Now you know each other. In a few days, you will become instructions for your first mission. I hope, you will use this time to form a good-working team. John, bring your luggage here, they will show you your chamber and make you known with Ramrod."
"Yes sir!"
After he left the room, Eagle said something more to the team. "Please, listen to me." His voice softened suddenly. "I know very well he can not replace Saber, neither in the team, nor in your heart. But he's the best, so give him at least a chance." Eagles voice became authoritative again. "And don't treat him like a greenhorn, especially not you, Colt! Do you understand?"
"I will treat him the same way he will me."
Eagle only sighed. "Children, I'm saying it only now, the first and last time. It is clear to me, what were you talking about. Saber is dead, you have to deal with it. I know some events were mysterious, but try not to think about it and any private investigation is strictly prohibited! Old team is gone, a new has to be built!
And the most important, PLEASE, don't compare Saber and John. Was that comprehensible FOR ALL OF YOU?"
"Yes sir!"
"Good, now take care about John. I'm leaving. Oh, one more thing. Fireball, as a new captain of team, you will report to me tomorrow, exactly at 2 p.m. in my office."
"Yes sir!"
Expression in Eagles face became tender for a second again. "Don't think I'm cruel, I miss him also. Good bye to all of you."
Commander Eagle left the rather small room definitely and silence ruled for a minute again. Colt was the first who broke it.
"Congratulations partner! Or should say sir now?"
"Very funny Colt."
"And I hoped, you will like it. Like lt. Walters, sir!" Colt turned to a sarcastic voice." Because I'm a soldier, sir. No one will stop me, sir!" "I have no emotions, sir!"
The parody was too perfect. Fireball with April could not stand it any more. For first time in more then a month, laughter could be heard in Ramrod. No one noticed John standing in door with suit-case.
"Only because I'm not making an idiot in front of everybody doesn't mean you are better Mr. Wilcox!"
"So and what do you mean with that? I'm an idiot in your eyes?"
"Ha! You starsheriffs are doing, like you were the only one who rescued our dimension!"
"And what exactly were YOU doing?"
"You would not understand, you are not a soldier."
"At least you are! Ha, ha!"
"You have no idea, you.....you.....you cowboy!"
"So-o...there's the problem. Only because I didn't absolved the academy..."
"Your education is minimal. Hunting and shooting is the only thing you can do. What could a poor cowboy know about military?"
Fireball with April were just watching the terrible row and both of them became pretty shocked. April had full military education, but this was also too much for her. She together with Saber were never acting that way. They never remembered the fact of not attending the Academy to Fireball or Colt. No, that was too much. She was opening her mouth, but Fireball was faster. The last sentence returned the speech also to *him*.
"That's enough you two! Colt, go calm yourself. April, would you take care about him, please?"
April nodded and took the furious cowboy with her.
"John, take your suit-case and follow me."
"Yes, sir!"
They were walking through Ramrod to the part, where the personal chambers and bathroom were situated, without saying a word. Fire led their new team mate to Sabers chamber. *He* opened the door.
"So, here we are. This will be your chamber. Mines is opposite yours, Colts on your left side, Aprils opposite him. The door on the end of corridor is bathroom."
The chamber was not very big, contained only bed, desk with a chair, wardrobe, small bookcase and two shelves. John looked on it with his emotionless expression.
"I know, not very big, but cozy. do you like it?"
" It will be sufficient, sir."
Fireball sighed. "Good. Now, will be an hour enough time for you to move into."
"Yes, sir."
"So, in an hour, we will come for you and will show you the rest of Ramrod. We start the training tomorrow."
"Thank you, sir."
Fireball left the small room and started to look after Colt and April. *He* found them by the vehicles, Colt still furious.
"That army Punch! He was acting like-"
"Still furious Colt?"
"Back so soon Fire? Sorry, captain."
"Colt!"
"Ha, so what is our army-boy doing? Is he studying the regulations?"
"COLT!"
"Colt's right Fire. He's acting like we were zeroes."
"Enough! I don't like his acting either, but we have to learn how to cooperate, all of us. Maybe if we know each other better, it will be easier. We will start the training tomorrow."
"What training, Fire?"
"Flying on Ramrod of course!"
"All of us? You can't be serious, Turbofreak. We know how to fly Ramrod. John doesn't."
"Yeah, but we have to get used to each other. Do you understand?"
"OK, I'm really expecting, how will army boy be!"
"Colt, please, don't use that sarcastic tone. Maybe he will not be that bad, how he seems. He has to feel very lonely and unwelcome, don't you think? He knows very well the circumstances, that led him to us and he's probably feeling like a substitution."
"All right phartner. But I swear, when he starts to act that way again, "
"You will LET HIM BE!"
"I didn't knew that promotion is connected to loosing sense of humour."
"Guys, sorry for disturbing your fascinating conversation, but if I remember, something stayed unfinished after daddy arrived. "
"April, baby, you're right. What will we do with Saber and our list of strange things?"
"I'm afraid, it will be difficult to do anything with John around us."
"Why do you think so April?"
"Remember, what daddy said. We should forget everything. I think John would say to him, if not."
" That's really bad. But I have an idea. We will do nothing in next few days, just pretending, we're doing what was said to us. When the first opportunity comes, you April will find out about the customs of Satanists, for example in the library."
"Fine Fire. But what will we do, if I find nothing?"
"Then we will have to find someone, who will tell us. And please, in front of your father pretend, you are interested into religion, or something similar."
"I will try."
"Colt, we two will find the doctor, who ordered the exhumation. And all of us will thing about the list. If you can remember something more, just tell me. Something is terribly wrong here and I want to find out. The young woman in desert, I have a feeling, I have seen her somewhere before...or she's remembering me someone...I don't know."
Colt and April were looking on Fireball with sad glance. "Fire, we are on your side. We will support you."
"Yeah Turbofreak, you can count on us."
"Or we will try at least. Maybe daddy will not survive it, but we will try. I understand how are you felling right now. May I have one more question? Don't answer, if you don't want."
"Go on April!"
"For how long were you two been together?"
Fireball sighed "About an year." said with a sad tone.
"Wow, but how could you hide it in front of me for so long? I mean, I noticed, Saber has interests on you on the first evening, but you..."
"Maybe I'm good in hiding facts." said Fire quietly.
(((((((
An hour later
Colt offered himself to prepare the dinner. The others were to depressed to realize, with what had they just agreed, so now he was happily bubbling in the kitchen, from a longer distance looking like an old wizard from books for children. His self conversation was going in this lines: "Hm, now some salt, it would be perfect. Here it is written it should stay 10 minutes in boiling water, ha, that ridiculous, for who is this written? For a greenhorn, I'm a pro. 5 more minutes can not harm...ah, this will be perfect...where are the fresh tomatoes?...No tomatoes? Hm, ketchup will be sufficient..."
Fire and April were showing the whole spaceship to John, not leaving out even the smallest room, also trying to give him some useful information from the history of Ramrod.
"So John, the construction of Ramrod took more than an year, ahh, here are our vehicles. This is Colt's Broncobuster, Fire's Red Fury and this is my Nova." April pointed on a pink mecha horse. "Do you have any vehicle?"
"No Miss Eagle."
"So we have to find something suitable for you, Fire don't you think?"
"That won't be necessary, Miss Eagle."
"No John, she's right. Sometimes we need to leave Ramrod and continue on our own. Without a vehicle it will be uncomfortable and dangerous for you."
"To leave, sir? Why that?"
"John, by countless advantages of Ramrod, it could not be used on secret missions, or when we want to spy a secret Outrider base. It's too big."
"You're probably right captain Hikari, but someone has to stay in Ramrod to protect Miss Eagle."
"To do what?"
"To protect Miss Eagle here. Captain, you can not leave a woman with the Outriders alone without a protection."
April, used to fight with the Outriders from face to face stayed shocked. Sure, the guys usually used to protect her, but when necessary, she could do the job as good as boys, sometimes even better. Fireball just gave a surprised glance on Walters. Speech returned first to April.
"Could you repeat it once again, please. I think I misunderstood you."
Her face expression together with tone of voice were warning everybody in round of two miles, but John was not experienced enough to notice it.
"It' s the duty of all of us to protect you Miss Eagle. Your father is a very important person and you could be an easy target." His voice was slowly changing into that one, usually used, when you're trying to explain something obvious to a small child. Bad move John, bad move...
"The same as the rest of you!"
"Not really Miss Eagle. There's a little difference between you and us."
"Oh, so because I'm a woman and not a man!"
"Exactly! I promise to you Miss Eagle, I will protect you..."
"Listen to me you...you gentleman! I don't need your protection, do you understand? And now return from the 19-th century to presence and follow us to the Control room!"
While going from the vehicles to the Control room, April hissed to Fireball quietly: "Have you heard it Turbofreak? That's unbelievable! I'm starting to understand Colt. What an idiot!"
"Calm down April. I'm afraid, it will continue. Especially when will Colt enter the conversation."
"Fire, I'm warning you, I will support Colt and enjoy the embarrassment of John."
"Oh Gods!"
The small incident seemed forgotten in the Control room.
"Look John. This is the head and heart of Ramrod. Here are our unites. Colts, mines, yours and April behind us. Tomorrow we will start the training. It takes some to get used it, but then it's a wonderful feeling."
Before anybody could say anything, the cowboy was screaming from the kitchen. "Come on pals! The dinner is ready."
"So end of sightseeing guys, I'm starving, lets go! This will be the first real meal after a month."
"If you wish so Miss Eagle."
The left the Control room, only Fireball stayed for a second, very, very worried. *Oh Gods! This is great! I'm sure Eagle was looking for someone totally different from Saber. John hates the cowboy because he's not a soldier. Colt hates him because he is. He can not respect April, because she's a woman. She hates him, because that insults her. And I'm the captain of this house from cards. One bad move and it falls down. It seems John can not stand two categories of people. Women and non-soldiers. What will happen if he finds out, I'm both? Hm, a bad move will not be necessary, the house will fall down also alone. Eagle succeeded completely, I must agree. Saber, why did you left? I'm missing you. What has happened?* The young woman sighed, lost in memories. For a second she looked lost and vulnerable, screaming for help without a tone. This part of her was revealed only to one person - Saber.
"Turbofreak, I mean captain, we're waiting for you. Even the army boy here is hungry."
By hearing his new nick-name, John reddened in face.
*Bloody hell, now it starts again. My Lord what have I done to you?* "I'm here cowboy. What's on the menu?"
"One of my culinary specialties. Spaghetti a là Colt."
Proud Colt put something on the table. Indefinite consistence, with a poisoning shade of yellow and something red on the top. April paled. Fireball was staring in the ceiling with an expression, that could be translated for example like this: *My Lord, if you are doing something, you're doing it properly.* John was staring on the so-called spaghetti like on the worst enemy.
Colt gave all of them a rich portion, still with the proud expression on face. "Let the feeding begin!" No one dared to move. Suddenly a phone rang. Hopefully, everybody jumped.
*Maybe it's an alarm!* *Please, this will be the first time, I'll be thankful for an Outrider attack!* *Now I understand, what was Eagle meaning, when he said this will be hard!*
"Oh pals, sit down. It will be probably Robin. Bite in!"
He ran out with a happily smile.
John was still staring on the spaghetti. "I'm afraid, it will bite me first."
Fireball said: "Somewhere, I heard, sometimes it is good not to eat a whole day. It will clean your body." and threw *his* portion into trash. Fire was moving to the basin, when Colt returned. "I was right, it was Robin. She arrived today and will stay for a few days. She want to meet tonight. Oh Fire, I see you were hungry. Hm, you look, you were not eating for a longer time. We have to fix that!" Next portion of spaghetti ended with a loud SPLATCH on Fire's plate.
*OH GODS! This evening will never end!*
*******
Meanwhile, somewhere
Jesse Blue was sitting in a small room together with two other people, siblings Marcos (Marco) and Simona.
"So, the things started to move. Today, they have become a new member. Someone named Lt. John Walters. Does the name say something to you Marco?"
"No, sounds like an army-boy to me. Unexpected move from Eagle. Who became the leader?"
"You can guess three times."
"As we thought."
"Exactly, but Marco, will she manage it?"
"Don't know, we should be prepared."
"Boys, you should trust her more. Samantha is intelligent and capable."
"I know dear, but what's coming on them will be far, far more than the whole Cavalry Command can take, I'm afraid."
(((((((
Evening in hotel
Colt left Ramrod, trying to pretend, he's looking forward to a night of pleasure with Robin. He was sure, he had fooled John. To his astonishment, Lt. said nothing. It was more difficult by April. Difficult, but not impossible. The worst it was by Fireball, the start, the end, the center, the cause of all troubles. Colt felt something was not right with Fireball. Did Fire knew something, that the others not? Probably. But what?
His relationship with Robin was going from bad to worse. Better said from the kissing episode. Every time he kissed Robin, Fire with Saber occurred in his head. That confused him and after he realized, he likes it, it confused him even more. He felt, he has overseen something. But what? How is it possible, that two kissing guys are turning him on? Or is it just Fireball? The way he's moving? Acting? Breathing?
Robin noticed it of course. Every time, they're alone, trying to get to something intimate, something is holding Colt back. She asked him and not once, but became no answer. Then, on night, before leaving the team into desert, Colt came over the barrier. He ignored the disgusting and concentrated only on the nice part. After a long time, he and Robin once again shared the bed. What the night! He felt like reborn in the morning. Also Robin came to a conclusion. She felt Colts usual fighting during the first kiss, then concentrating him on something and loosing the control totally. Something was turning him on and it was not her!
Colt was aware of all this, so he knew, this will be no night of pleasure, but a serious talking. Should he tell her? How will she react? And even more important, should he tell Fireball? How will Fireball understand it? Now, after Sabers leaving, he must feel very lonely. Will he not see something more in his admission? This was the last thing Colt could now use. With head full of questions and worries, he entered the hotel, Robin was staying in.
He knocked politely on the door. A beloved voice was inviting him: "Colt, is it you? Come inside!" Colt entered and there, in the near of the window she was. Even more beautiful, than last time. He hugged her and kissed, but she broke the kiss.
"Sit down cowboy. So, you have a new member. How is he?"
Colt sighed quietly and said: "Terrible my love. A real army-boy. I hate him!"
"Maybe it won't be so serious. I understand you. I didn't knew Saber as good as you did, but..."
"Robin, he's gone. We all feel lost somehow. He was the one holding us together, giving us the feeling of safety...I...Eagle said we should not compare John with Saber, but it's impossible. Walters is so different. I don't know what will I do."
"Is it really that bad?"
"Robin, he's a soldier, always respecting the orders, never doing something impulsive. He can not stand the non-soldiers and can not show it against Fireball."
"Why not?"
"Oh, I didn't told you. He's our new leader. Anyway, John can not show it against him, so there remains only one non-soldier."
"And you're surely not provoking him, Colt."
"Ah....maybe a little bit..."
"Or more."
"Hey, on whose side are you exactly?"
"And what about April?"
"I don't know. First I thought they will understand each other well, but I'm slowly becoming a feeling she doesn't like him either. When I was preparing the dinner, Fire with April were showing his the rest of Ramrod and he said something, what made April totally furious."
"Colt, maybe you're judging him to hard. how must the poor boy feel?"
"I don't care how is he feeling!"
"Good. I'll tell you a short story."
"Go on my love! I'm listening."
"One day I left Tranquility and went to town to buy some things. Two rough drunkards were bothering me, when a cowboy came and helped me. He was quite good-looking, I must agree, but conceited, annoying and impertinent. Do you know, who am I talking about?"
"Also impertinent?"
"Of course you were. But when I knew you better, I found out, you're quite sentimental and you're having a soul. Do you understand me?"
Colt sighed, this time loudly. "You won. I'll try to give him at least a chance." he grumbled. "And now darling, after I promised I will be a good cowboy, can we continue?"
Robin turned away.
"My love?"
"Colt, please, stay where you are."
"What's going on, Robin-baby?"
"We need to talk."
"Oh, and what are we doing since I came to you?"
"Seriously!"
*So here it is. But will I survive one more talking today?*
"Colt, we are both feeling, something is wrong." started Robin with a serious tone.
"It's because of Saber - his leaving..."
"No it started sooner. Look Colt. I understand, this is not the best time, but we can not put it off. Do you agree?"
Colt sighed. "You're right."
"We need to solve this problem, or..."
"Or what?"
"Or we can not stay together any more."
"Robin, that's too radical, don't you think?"
"I love you cowboy and you and Josh are good friends, he looks somehow as on a father on you, but if I don't attract you any longer..."
"That's not true!"
"Oh really?"
"Robin, I swear, you're the most wonderful being I have ever seen."
"Than where's the problem, what's going on with you?"
"Ah..."
"Colt, please, tell me."
"Robin, I'm afraid, I will loose you, if I tell you." The last words was he screaming.
"You will surely loose me if you don't." answered Robin quietly.
Silence ruled in the room for a moment. Pictures of Robin and him kissing, strolling in the town, the short holiday together with Josh...all of them occurred in Colts head. Will he be able to give it up?
"Good, I will tell you." he said with a sad tone. "Are you aware of it, you're forcing me to break a promise I gave somebody?"
"To him, or to her?"
"To him."
"There's a phone cowboy. You can call him and ask, or leave the hotel right now. I don't see any problem."
"No, Robin. It's not possible any more."
"Why? Is he out of reach?"
"Yeah, pretty far away."
"Is there not any other possibility, how to contact him?"
"I'm afraid no."
"Cowboy, if he lives everywhere in the universe, our technique makes it possible. It was you, who told this to me."
"You mentioned it Robin. If he LIVES."
"Nooo. Your meaning, it's..."
Colt only nodded.
"I'm sorry, Colt."
"It's not your fault Robin."
"And nor is it yours. But we have to solve our problem."
Colt sighed again. "Robin, promise me first, whatever will happen, you will tell no body. Promise it Robin!"
"I swear, even Josh will never find out."
"Then, listen carefully to me. Saber and Fireball were together."
"WHAT?"
"They were together, they had a relationship."
"WOW. Really surprising, I must admit, but such things happen. Where's the connection between them and our problem?"
"Let me continue. One day, I found them kissing!"
"And what's so bad on it? Or is tolerance a foreign word for you?"
"No. I-I tried to pretend I'm disgusted, but I liked it! It was turning me on! I tried to forget it and hide..."
"And?"
"Sometimes in Fireball presence, I feel it. He's turning me on!"
"That's ridiculous. I always thought you like women!"
"So do I Robin. I'm confused! I don't know what to do!"
"Colt, happened this ever before?"
"Yeah, several times."
"Once again please!"
"No, no. You misunderstood me. It was always a woman who attracted me that way."
"Now am I also confused."
"It was not a real love. Someone told me once, I must be sensitive to pheromones. The attraction usually vanished after a few words with her."
"Does Fireball know about it?"
"Of course not! I have never mentioned it in front of him."
"Maybe you should."
"Robin, I can not say it to him. The only person to who he had trusted died. What will he think if I tell him he's turning me on?"
"Don't care about what will he think. We can solve this problem only with his help."
"I know Robin, I know..."
They hugged each other and stayed there for a long time with tears in eyes.
Fireball left the shower, one eye on clocks. Still more then 20 minutes. Now must be Eagle thinking, who will the new member be. Last opportunity to speak with Colt and April alone. Fireball decided. Entered the kitchen and stopped Colt beginning round number 74...whatever.
"Colt, please sit down, we have to speak."
Colt looked like waking up from a dream.
"What?"
"Just sit down. Where is April?"
"Don't know, maybe in her chamber."
"April!"
No response.
"April!"
Still no response.
"APRIL!!! Please come here. We have to speak."
April came to the kitchen, no tears left.
"Speak? And what about? He's dead." she said quietly.
"Yeah Turbofreak. There's nothing to speak about."
"Come on you two. We all know, it's not true. For a month we were hiding one for the others. Now the time has came. This is our last opportunity. We shouldn't waist it."
April looked perplexed for a moment.
"Fire, what exactly do you mean with last opportunity?"
"In 20 minutes we will become a team again. I don't know who he or she would be, but I'm sure, he would not give us a lot of free time and there are some things, we just cannot mention in front of him."
"Hm. Maybe you are right Fireball. Dad said yesterday, we should not treat our new member as a greenhorn and let him out of everything."
"Yes, that's exactly, what I mean. Now both of you have to agree, that something wrong is here."
"Of course Turbofreak, our best friend is two meters under ground. Is it enough wrong for you?"
"Calm down Colt. After you mentioned it Fire, you're right. After our great victory Saber acted rather strange and the last month..., it was strange itself."
"I have a suggestion. Let's go chronological. What was the first strange thing we remember?"
"Saber, after we arrived to the village in desert?" Colt decided to join the conversation in a more productive way.
"No, it started earlier, I'm sure..." was Aprils opinion.
"I don't know, if you two noticed, but I would say, it started after defeating the outriders or maybe even during the war. He looked like something was chasing him and the weight of the world was lying on him."
"Yeah Turbofreak! I-I remember. I thought he's just exhausted from events before. Then he left for a two weeks of holiday in Highlands and returned even more exhausted. I can see his face now right before me. Pale skin, dark circles round the eyes. I had spoken to his parents, asking them what happen. They looked really surprised, because Saber wasn't at home for near a half year. Can you understand that?"
"Maybe he was at Sincia?"
"No April, that's nonsense. But let's continue. Next two months he was trying to pretend, everything is OK. I tried to talk with him, but..."
Fireballs face reddened by saying that sentence.
"Anyway, have you noticed someone suspicious during that period?"
"If you don't count the journalist..., but one of them was really strange. He didn't looked like a journalist and was interested in every detail about Saber."
"Colt, do you remember him?"
"Sorry April, I cannot even remember his face. I'm sure, if I hear him again, I'll recognize him."
"Then, it looked like Saber calmed down for a while. Teaching on Academy consumed him fully. The end of the idyll came together with command to go to the small village in desert and fix the troubles there. Some of the people said, they have seen Jesse Blue."
"Yeah, his mood has turned by 180º. Turbofreak, I don't know how to say it, but ahm..., Saber looked different, then before, I mean, not scared or so..."
"Not scared, rather expecting something."
Colt clasped his hands. "That's the right expression Turbo. But what?"
"I don't know, what was he expecting, guys, but if you remember, he ignored us totally. Even you Fireball."
"April" asked Fireball suspiciously "what are you trying to say?"
"You never noticed? He was always observing you and sometimes treating you like he, ahm..."
Fireballs face became an interesting expression.
"Fire, I know it must be surprising for you, to find out our boss has not been straight and you were his object..."
"We hoped, at least you will never notice, April." said Fireball with a quiet voice
"Don't tell me you two were together! Wait a second! What does it mean at least I will not? And what about Colt here?"
"I'm sorry April, dear."
"You knew?"
"I found them one day kissing. Really disgusting, you can believe me. Now we should take it as it was. They were in love and-" Colt could not end talking, like he was hiding something.
"Why have you never told me, Fire?"
To "his" astonishment, Fireball realized a very unexpected tone in Aprils voice. It sounded like relief. "I'm sorry April. It is much more difficult than you think. One day, I will tell you everything, but now-"
"Hey, Turbofreak, that's the same answer Saber gave me that day. Don't you think, slowly you could tell us the whole story?"
"No, this is not the best time. Soon, I promise."
"Fire, we know each other pretty long, more than a year now, you can trust us."
"I'm really sorry, but April, may I have one question?"
"Of course."
Fireballs face became concerned for a second. "Are you confused, because, it seemed I have betrayed you, or because it was a secret and you were not involved?"
April waited with answer for a while. It looked, she was thinking. "Fire, both of us know very well, our relationship could not last very long. To be honest, I felt even dirty, because it seemed, I took Saber his love away and then could do nothing. I felt sorry for him. To love somebody and nothing becoming for it. Now..."
"Hey, you too, it's real cute, but we' re wasting time with this romance. Eagle will be here any minute. Back to Saber. That one day, he said, he's going to make his head clear in desert and left and, and..."
Tears occurred again in Aprils eyes, but also those of Colt and Fireball. Fire first wiped "his" eyes. Colt continued. "He left and some hours later, we found him dying. He said, it was a snake and we should not be worried, it's OK...he tried to be the hero to the end." Colts voice slipped. Something was terribly wrong there. Something, something...
"I've got it!" suddenly Fireball said. "Colt, please, explain me one thing. If a snake attacks, where?"
"Fire?"
"I mean, attacks he head, trunk, limbs..."
"Feet of course."
"That's it. Come on! Saber was wearing his armor that day. Show me a snake, that could bite through it!" Fire was screaming the last words.
"Bloody hell! And I'm sure Topsword knew who or what has attacked him! But why was he covering him?" Colt has now looked really concerned.
"And there was no doctor in the small village. That young women...April you found her. How?"
"So, as we found him laying on ground, you Colt, you started to scream for a doctor, so I ran as fast I could to the village. People said, there's no doctor, when that woman came and offered her services. She said, she's not a doctor, but maybe she could help. I took her to Saber."
"Yeah, we told her what happened. She tried Sabers pulse and said only, she's sorry."
"Right. But tell me, can at least one of you remember her face?"
Both Colt and April looked surprised.
"Her face? Well Turbofreak, I can remember her voice quite good, but her face? Now after you mentioned it...no. But why, why?" Colt was murmuring to himself for a minute. "I know why! She was wearing a hut, that covered the upper half of her face!!"
Fireball breathed in. "So, we can add her to our list. Continue Colt."
"We buried Saber without any doctor having an eye on him." Three sighs and a minute of silence. "Now am I asking why?"
"Because the mysterious woman said, there lives only one species of poisonous snakes and their poison causes a fast decomposition of the body."
Fireball looked, he was really thinking about it. "Maybe April. Any way, after the funeral we all became drunk pretty fast, so I don't think anyone of us can tell, what happened that evening. Morning, one of the locals decided to improve our hangovers and said Satanists were on the cemetery during night."
"Fire, do you really think, Satanists have done the devastation on cemetery?"
"Don't know. The pentagrams on Sabers grave speak for it. Maybe we should start to collect more information. This is becoming more and more interesting every minute. I also remember, there was a doctor in Cavalry, who ordered the exhumation of the Sabers body. What have he found?"
Suddenly, steps and a familiar voice could be heard in Ramrod.
"Anybody here? Children, where are you?"
Colt could see their visitor as first. "Oh, April, it's your dad and he's not alone. We have to finish the conversation later." he hissed quickly.
"Dad, we are here, in the kitchen."
Commander Eagle entered the kitchen with serious expression an his face and a young man behind him. "Hello children! What are you doing here?"
"Just talking, dad."
"Good, lets go somewhere, where it is more comfortable. Ah, maybe here. Sit down everybody, you too John. So, how to start? I understand, that what happened was very painful for all of you. We all regret the loss of Saber Rider and I don't think, someone will be ever able to replace him. This is the end of your Starsheriffs team."
Eagle made a small pause to inspire. He looked his small audience and tried to read from their faces. *Children, children, this will be very hard for you, I know. You are not showing any emotions. That's a bad sign. What have you for a plan? I'm sure, you were talking about Saber. To what conclusion did you come?*
"But there is still danger here and we can't continue like this. A new team has to be formed. It took more then two weeks, this decision. Fireball, you will be promoted to rank of captain and will become a new leader. Rest of you will stay on same posts as before.
And now, this will be the new member of your team, lieutenant John Walters. He absolved the Academy, worked for two years in one of our bases. During the war, he became one of our bravest soldiers."
When hearing his name, lt. John Walters stood up. He was middle height, lean, muscular, with an indefinite shade of brow hair and cold blue eyes. His body speech was announcing to everybody: "I'm a soldier, put your hands away!" He could be not more than two - three years older than our heroes.
"Let me introduce" continued Eagle "first, the new boss of the team, captain Shinji Hikari, also known as Fireball."
John extended his hand. "Captain Hikari?"
Fire accepted it. "Welcome in team. I'm looking forward on our cooperation."
"So, do I, sir."
"Bill Wilcox, responsible for shooting, hunting, tracking, usually using nickname Colt."
"Mr. Wilcox?" Lt. Walters offered his hand the same way as to Fireball before, only the tone of his voice became much, much colder.
"Nice to have you in team, partner."
"And my daughter April, engineer and one of the constructors of Ramrod, responsible for navigation and communication."
"Miss Eagle, my pleasure." Even an iceberg would show more emotions, than the new member of the team.
Atmosphere became choking. It looked like nobody will start the conversation, so Eagle decided there's time to continue.
"Now you know each other. In a few days, you will become instructions for your first mission. I hope, you will use this time to form a good-working team. John, bring your luggage here, they will show you your chamber and make you known with Ramrod."
"Yes sir!"
After he left the room, Eagle said something more to the team. "Please, listen to me." His voice softened suddenly. "I know very well he can not replace Saber, neither in the team, nor in your heart. But he's the best, so give him at least a chance." Eagles voice became authoritative again. "And don't treat him like a greenhorn, especially not you, Colt! Do you understand?"
"I will treat him the same way he will me."
Eagle only sighed. "Children, I'm saying it only now, the first and last time. It is clear to me, what were you talking about. Saber is dead, you have to deal with it. I know some events were mysterious, but try not to think about it and any private investigation is strictly prohibited! Old team is gone, a new has to be built!
And the most important, PLEASE, don't compare Saber and John. Was that comprehensible FOR ALL OF YOU?"
"Yes sir!"
"Good, now take care about John. I'm leaving. Oh, one more thing. Fireball, as a new captain of team, you will report to me tomorrow, exactly at 2 p.m. in my office."
"Yes sir!"
Expression in Eagles face became tender for a second again. "Don't think I'm cruel, I miss him also. Good bye to all of you."
Commander Eagle left the rather small room definitely and silence ruled for a minute again. Colt was the first who broke it.
"Congratulations partner! Or should say sir now?"
"Very funny Colt."
"And I hoped, you will like it. Like lt. Walters, sir!" Colt turned to a sarcastic voice." Because I'm a soldier, sir. No one will stop me, sir!" "I have no emotions, sir!"
The parody was too perfect. Fireball with April could not stand it any more. For first time in more then a month, laughter could be heard in Ramrod. No one noticed John standing in door with suit-case.
"Only because I'm not making an idiot in front of everybody doesn't mean you are better Mr. Wilcox!"
"So and what do you mean with that? I'm an idiot in your eyes?"
"Ha! You starsheriffs are doing, like you were the only one who rescued our dimension!"
"And what exactly were YOU doing?"
"You would not understand, you are not a soldier."
"At least you are! Ha, ha!"
"You have no idea, you.....you.....you cowboy!"
"So-o...there's the problem. Only because I didn't absolved the academy..."
"Your education is minimal. Hunting and shooting is the only thing you can do. What could a poor cowboy know about military?"
Fireball with April were just watching the terrible row and both of them became pretty shocked. April had full military education, but this was also too much for her. She together with Saber were never acting that way. They never remembered the fact of not attending the Academy to Fireball or Colt. No, that was too much. She was opening her mouth, but Fireball was faster. The last sentence returned the speech also to *him*.
"That's enough you two! Colt, go calm yourself. April, would you take care about him, please?"
April nodded and took the furious cowboy with her.
"John, take your suit-case and follow me."
"Yes, sir!"
They were walking through Ramrod to the part, where the personal chambers and bathroom were situated, without saying a word. Fire led their new team mate to Sabers chamber. *He* opened the door.
"So, here we are. This will be your chamber. Mines is opposite yours, Colts on your left side, Aprils opposite him. The door on the end of corridor is bathroom."
The chamber was not very big, contained only bed, desk with a chair, wardrobe, small bookcase and two shelves. John looked on it with his emotionless expression.
"I know, not very big, but cozy. do you like it?"
" It will be sufficient, sir."
Fireball sighed. "Good. Now, will be an hour enough time for you to move into."
"Yes, sir."
"So, in an hour, we will come for you and will show you the rest of Ramrod. We start the training tomorrow."
"Thank you, sir."
Fireball left the small room and started to look after Colt and April. *He* found them by the vehicles, Colt still furious.
"That army Punch! He was acting like-"
"Still furious Colt?"
"Back so soon Fire? Sorry, captain."
"Colt!"
"Ha, so what is our army-boy doing? Is he studying the regulations?"
"COLT!"
"Colt's right Fire. He's acting like we were zeroes."
"Enough! I don't like his acting either, but we have to learn how to cooperate, all of us. Maybe if we know each other better, it will be easier. We will start the training tomorrow."
"What training, Fire?"
"Flying on Ramrod of course!"
"All of us? You can't be serious, Turbofreak. We know how to fly Ramrod. John doesn't."
"Yeah, but we have to get used to each other. Do you understand?"
"OK, I'm really expecting, how will army boy be!"
"Colt, please, don't use that sarcastic tone. Maybe he will not be that bad, how he seems. He has to feel very lonely and unwelcome, don't you think? He knows very well the circumstances, that led him to us and he's probably feeling like a substitution."
"All right phartner. But I swear, when he starts to act that way again, "
"You will LET HIM BE!"
"I didn't knew that promotion is connected to loosing sense of humour."
"Guys, sorry for disturbing your fascinating conversation, but if I remember, something stayed unfinished after daddy arrived. "
"April, baby, you're right. What will we do with Saber and our list of strange things?"
"I'm afraid, it will be difficult to do anything with John around us."
"Why do you think so April?"
"Remember, what daddy said. We should forget everything. I think John would say to him, if not."
" That's really bad. But I have an idea. We will do nothing in next few days, just pretending, we're doing what was said to us. When the first opportunity comes, you April will find out about the customs of Satanists, for example in the library."
"Fine Fire. But what will we do, if I find nothing?"
"Then we will have to find someone, who will tell us. And please, in front of your father pretend, you are interested into religion, or something similar."
"I will try."
"Colt, we two will find the doctor, who ordered the exhumation. And all of us will thing about the list. If you can remember something more, just tell me. Something is terribly wrong here and I want to find out. The young woman in desert, I have a feeling, I have seen her somewhere before...or she's remembering me someone...I don't know."
Colt and April were looking on Fireball with sad glance. "Fire, we are on your side. We will support you."
"Yeah Turbofreak, you can count on us."
"Or we will try at least. Maybe daddy will not survive it, but we will try. I understand how are you felling right now. May I have one more question? Don't answer, if you don't want."
"Go on April!"
"For how long were you two been together?"
Fireball sighed "About an year." said with a sad tone.
"Wow, but how could you hide it in front of me for so long? I mean, I noticed, Saber has interests on you on the first evening, but you..."
"Maybe I'm good in hiding facts." said Fire quietly.
(((((((
An hour later
Colt offered himself to prepare the dinner. The others were to depressed to realize, with what had they just agreed, so now he was happily bubbling in the kitchen, from a longer distance looking like an old wizard from books for children. His self conversation was going in this lines: "Hm, now some salt, it would be perfect. Here it is written it should stay 10 minutes in boiling water, ha, that ridiculous, for who is this written? For a greenhorn, I'm a pro. 5 more minutes can not harm...ah, this will be perfect...where are the fresh tomatoes?...No tomatoes? Hm, ketchup will be sufficient..."
Fire and April were showing the whole spaceship to John, not leaving out even the smallest room, also trying to give him some useful information from the history of Ramrod.
"So John, the construction of Ramrod took more than an year, ahh, here are our vehicles. This is Colt's Broncobuster, Fire's Red Fury and this is my Nova." April pointed on a pink mecha horse. "Do you have any vehicle?"
"No Miss Eagle."
"So we have to find something suitable for you, Fire don't you think?"
"That won't be necessary, Miss Eagle."
"No John, she's right. Sometimes we need to leave Ramrod and continue on our own. Without a vehicle it will be uncomfortable and dangerous for you."
"To leave, sir? Why that?"
"John, by countless advantages of Ramrod, it could not be used on secret missions, or when we want to spy a secret Outrider base. It's too big."
"You're probably right captain Hikari, but someone has to stay in Ramrod to protect Miss Eagle."
"To do what?"
"To protect Miss Eagle here. Captain, you can not leave a woman with the Outriders alone without a protection."
April, used to fight with the Outriders from face to face stayed shocked. Sure, the guys usually used to protect her, but when necessary, she could do the job as good as boys, sometimes even better. Fireball just gave a surprised glance on Walters. Speech returned first to April.
"Could you repeat it once again, please. I think I misunderstood you."
Her face expression together with tone of voice were warning everybody in round of two miles, but John was not experienced enough to notice it.
"It' s the duty of all of us to protect you Miss Eagle. Your father is a very important person and you could be an easy target." His voice was slowly changing into that one, usually used, when you're trying to explain something obvious to a small child. Bad move John, bad move...
"The same as the rest of you!"
"Not really Miss Eagle. There's a little difference between you and us."
"Oh, so because I'm a woman and not a man!"
"Exactly! I promise to you Miss Eagle, I will protect you..."
"Listen to me you...you gentleman! I don't need your protection, do you understand? And now return from the 19-th century to presence and follow us to the Control room!"
While going from the vehicles to the Control room, April hissed to Fireball quietly: "Have you heard it Turbofreak? That's unbelievable! I'm starting to understand Colt. What an idiot!"
"Calm down April. I'm afraid, it will continue. Especially when will Colt enter the conversation."
"Fire, I'm warning you, I will support Colt and enjoy the embarrassment of John."
"Oh Gods!"
The small incident seemed forgotten in the Control room.
"Look John. This is the head and heart of Ramrod. Here are our unites. Colts, mines, yours and April behind us. Tomorrow we will start the training. It takes some to get used it, but then it's a wonderful feeling."
Before anybody could say anything, the cowboy was screaming from the kitchen. "Come on pals! The dinner is ready."
"So end of sightseeing guys, I'm starving, lets go! This will be the first real meal after a month."
"If you wish so Miss Eagle."
The left the Control room, only Fireball stayed for a second, very, very worried. *Oh Gods! This is great! I'm sure Eagle was looking for someone totally different from Saber. John hates the cowboy because he's not a soldier. Colt hates him because he is. He can not respect April, because she's a woman. She hates him, because that insults her. And I'm the captain of this house from cards. One bad move and it falls down. It seems John can not stand two categories of people. Women and non-soldiers. What will happen if he finds out, I'm both? Hm, a bad move will not be necessary, the house will fall down also alone. Eagle succeeded completely, I must agree. Saber, why did you left? I'm missing you. What has happened?* The young woman sighed, lost in memories. For a second she looked lost and vulnerable, screaming for help without a tone. This part of her was revealed only to one person - Saber.
"Turbofreak, I mean captain, we're waiting for you. Even the army boy here is hungry."
By hearing his new nick-name, John reddened in face.
*Bloody hell, now it starts again. My Lord what have I done to you?* "I'm here cowboy. What's on the menu?"
"One of my culinary specialties. Spaghetti a là Colt."
Proud Colt put something on the table. Indefinite consistence, with a poisoning shade of yellow and something red on the top. April paled. Fireball was staring in the ceiling with an expression, that could be translated for example like this: *My Lord, if you are doing something, you're doing it properly.* John was staring on the so-called spaghetti like on the worst enemy.
Colt gave all of them a rich portion, still with the proud expression on face. "Let the feeding begin!" No one dared to move. Suddenly a phone rang. Hopefully, everybody jumped.
*Maybe it's an alarm!* *Please, this will be the first time, I'll be thankful for an Outrider attack!* *Now I understand, what was Eagle meaning, when he said this will be hard!*
"Oh pals, sit down. It will be probably Robin. Bite in!"
He ran out with a happily smile.
John was still staring on the spaghetti. "I'm afraid, it will bite me first."
Fireball said: "Somewhere, I heard, sometimes it is good not to eat a whole day. It will clean your body." and threw *his* portion into trash. Fire was moving to the basin, when Colt returned. "I was right, it was Robin. She arrived today and will stay for a few days. She want to meet tonight. Oh Fire, I see you were hungry. Hm, you look, you were not eating for a longer time. We have to fix that!" Next portion of spaghetti ended with a loud SPLATCH on Fire's plate.
*OH GODS! This evening will never end!*
*******
Meanwhile, somewhere
Jesse Blue was sitting in a small room together with two other people, siblings Marcos (Marco) and Simona.
"So, the things started to move. Today, they have become a new member. Someone named Lt. John Walters. Does the name say something to you Marco?"
"No, sounds like an army-boy to me. Unexpected move from Eagle. Who became the leader?"
"You can guess three times."
"As we thought."
"Exactly, but Marco, will she manage it?"
"Don't know, we should be prepared."
"Boys, you should trust her more. Samantha is intelligent and capable."
"I know dear, but what's coming on them will be far, far more than the whole Cavalry Command can take, I'm afraid."
(((((((
Evening in hotel
Colt left Ramrod, trying to pretend, he's looking forward to a night of pleasure with Robin. He was sure, he had fooled John. To his astonishment, Lt. said nothing. It was more difficult by April. Difficult, but not impossible. The worst it was by Fireball, the start, the end, the center, the cause of all troubles. Colt felt something was not right with Fireball. Did Fire knew something, that the others not? Probably. But what?
His relationship with Robin was going from bad to worse. Better said from the kissing episode. Every time he kissed Robin, Fire with Saber occurred in his head. That confused him and after he realized, he likes it, it confused him even more. He felt, he has overseen something. But what? How is it possible, that two kissing guys are turning him on? Or is it just Fireball? The way he's moving? Acting? Breathing?
Robin noticed it of course. Every time, they're alone, trying to get to something intimate, something is holding Colt back. She asked him and not once, but became no answer. Then, on night, before leaving the team into desert, Colt came over the barrier. He ignored the disgusting and concentrated only on the nice part. After a long time, he and Robin once again shared the bed. What the night! He felt like reborn in the morning. Also Robin came to a conclusion. She felt Colts usual fighting during the first kiss, then concentrating him on something and loosing the control totally. Something was turning him on and it was not her!
Colt was aware of all this, so he knew, this will be no night of pleasure, but a serious talking. Should he tell her? How will she react? And even more important, should he tell Fireball? How will Fireball understand it? Now, after Sabers leaving, he must feel very lonely. Will he not see something more in his admission? This was the last thing Colt could now use. With head full of questions and worries, he entered the hotel, Robin was staying in.
He knocked politely on the door. A beloved voice was inviting him: "Colt, is it you? Come inside!" Colt entered and there, in the near of the window she was. Even more beautiful, than last time. He hugged her and kissed, but she broke the kiss.
"Sit down cowboy. So, you have a new member. How is he?"
Colt sighed quietly and said: "Terrible my love. A real army-boy. I hate him!"
"Maybe it won't be so serious. I understand you. I didn't knew Saber as good as you did, but..."
"Robin, he's gone. We all feel lost somehow. He was the one holding us together, giving us the feeling of safety...I...Eagle said we should not compare John with Saber, but it's impossible. Walters is so different. I don't know what will I do."
"Is it really that bad?"
"Robin, he's a soldier, always respecting the orders, never doing something impulsive. He can not stand the non-soldiers and can not show it against Fireball."
"Why not?"
"Oh, I didn't told you. He's our new leader. Anyway, John can not show it against him, so there remains only one non-soldier."
"And you're surely not provoking him, Colt."
"Ah....maybe a little bit..."
"Or more."
"Hey, on whose side are you exactly?"
"And what about April?"
"I don't know. First I thought they will understand each other well, but I'm slowly becoming a feeling she doesn't like him either. When I was preparing the dinner, Fire with April were showing his the rest of Ramrod and he said something, what made April totally furious."
"Colt, maybe you're judging him to hard. how must the poor boy feel?"
"I don't care how is he feeling!"
"Good. I'll tell you a short story."
"Go on my love! I'm listening."
"One day I left Tranquility and went to town to buy some things. Two rough drunkards were bothering me, when a cowboy came and helped me. He was quite good-looking, I must agree, but conceited, annoying and impertinent. Do you know, who am I talking about?"
"Also impertinent?"
"Of course you were. But when I knew you better, I found out, you're quite sentimental and you're having a soul. Do you understand me?"
Colt sighed, this time loudly. "You won. I'll try to give him at least a chance." he grumbled. "And now darling, after I promised I will be a good cowboy, can we continue?"
Robin turned away.
"My love?"
"Colt, please, stay where you are."
"What's going on, Robin-baby?"
"We need to talk."
"Oh, and what are we doing since I came to you?"
"Seriously!"
*So here it is. But will I survive one more talking today?*
"Colt, we are both feeling, something is wrong." started Robin with a serious tone.
"It's because of Saber - his leaving..."
"No it started sooner. Look Colt. I understand, this is not the best time, but we can not put it off. Do you agree?"
Colt sighed. "You're right."
"We need to solve this problem, or..."
"Or what?"
"Or we can not stay together any more."
"Robin, that's too radical, don't you think?"
"I love you cowboy and you and Josh are good friends, he looks somehow as on a father on you, but if I don't attract you any longer..."
"That's not true!"
"Oh really?"
"Robin, I swear, you're the most wonderful being I have ever seen."
"Than where's the problem, what's going on with you?"
"Ah..."
"Colt, please, tell me."
"Robin, I'm afraid, I will loose you, if I tell you." The last words was he screaming.
"You will surely loose me if you don't." answered Robin quietly.
Silence ruled in the room for a moment. Pictures of Robin and him kissing, strolling in the town, the short holiday together with Josh...all of them occurred in Colts head. Will he be able to give it up?
"Good, I will tell you." he said with a sad tone. "Are you aware of it, you're forcing me to break a promise I gave somebody?"
"To him, or to her?"
"To him."
"There's a phone cowboy. You can call him and ask, or leave the hotel right now. I don't see any problem."
"No, Robin. It's not possible any more."
"Why? Is he out of reach?"
"Yeah, pretty far away."
"Is there not any other possibility, how to contact him?"
"I'm afraid no."
"Cowboy, if he lives everywhere in the universe, our technique makes it possible. It was you, who told this to me."
"You mentioned it Robin. If he LIVES."
"Nooo. Your meaning, it's..."
Colt only nodded.
"I'm sorry, Colt."
"It's not your fault Robin."
"And nor is it yours. But we have to solve our problem."
Colt sighed again. "Robin, promise me first, whatever will happen, you will tell no body. Promise it Robin!"
"I swear, even Josh will never find out."
"Then, listen carefully to me. Saber and Fireball were together."
"WHAT?"
"They were together, they had a relationship."
"WOW. Really surprising, I must admit, but such things happen. Where's the connection between them and our problem?"
"Let me continue. One day, I found them kissing!"
"And what's so bad on it? Or is tolerance a foreign word for you?"
"No. I-I tried to pretend I'm disgusted, but I liked it! It was turning me on! I tried to forget it and hide..."
"And?"
"Sometimes in Fireball presence, I feel it. He's turning me on!"
"That's ridiculous. I always thought you like women!"
"So do I Robin. I'm confused! I don't know what to do!"
"Colt, happened this ever before?"
"Yeah, several times."
"Once again please!"
"No, no. You misunderstood me. It was always a woman who attracted me that way."
"Now am I also confused."
"It was not a real love. Someone told me once, I must be sensitive to pheromones. The attraction usually vanished after a few words with her."
"Does Fireball know about it?"
"Of course not! I have never mentioned it in front of him."
"Maybe you should."
"Robin, I can not say it to him. The only person to who he had trusted died. What will he think if I tell him he's turning me on?"
"Don't care about what will he think. We can solve this problem only with his help."
"I know Robin, I know..."
They hugged each other and stayed there for a long time with tears in eyes.