“Let's set a trap of our own.”

 

And as the hour passed, dragging into what seemed like a tense eternity of emotion, citizens of New Kinneston began to crowd back around the entrance of the Sheriff's Office. One by one, each bringing with them loved ones and what little personal affections they could carry.

“Where are the rest of them?” Alicia asked as Calypso helped Austin to his feet.

Even though a sword remained plunged into his shoulder, its steel blade half hidden by his own flesh, the Sheriff walked to the front door as daylight began to set in.

“This is barely over half,” he said, his words disheartening. “I have to try and convince the others to come.”

“There's no time,” Alicia replied. “The biggest resource we have right now is daylight, and we can't afford to waste another second of it.”

“Sheriff,” a man said, approaching the local hero a bit skittish. “Wondered if you might take my children to Washington City with you?”

“Mr. Ranford, I expect you will be able to take them yourself.” Austin replied.

“No sir, our home is here. The wife and I, we can't just pick up and leave when there's a good chance this will all blow over with time.” Mr. Ranford replied.

“You do realize the Ancients are going to return. And when they do,” Alicia said, stepping from the porch in order to approach the man. “They will kill everyone here.”

“Yes ma'am, I realize that's also possible, which is why I'm asking you to take my two children with you. Give them a life and a chance should that happen. I've lived my life, and don't exactly fear death. Just want to know they are in good hands.” Mr. Ranford said.

“But Mr. Ranford, I...” Austin said, his words cut short.

“Yes sir, we'll be glad to help. Lots of children in Washington City that will be glad to have a couple more playmates.” Alicia said, turning to Austin and glancing hard.

As the man turned to leave the conversation, saying goodbye to his children in hopes of seeing them again, Alicia pulled close to Austin.

“It's no use. He's made peace with his fate, and just wants his children out of harm's way. Only thing we can do is protect them now.” she said, Austin nodding a bit to acknowledge the truth of her words.

“Alright, we have to head out shortly,” Jackson said, stepping up to the group in his United States issued uniform. “How are we doing this?”

“Austin will ride in our stagecoach, Calypso and Preacher on the front of it. We'll ride horseback alongside, with the rest of the caravan behind,” Alicia said using a finger to pull a bit of hair behind her left ear. “If we hit trouble, our guns will be to the front. But if the caravan needs us, Jackson and I can fall back to assist them.”

“And the children we are to protect?” Certes asked.

“I want them in the stagecoach with me. If their parents are trusting me to keep 'em safe, then I damn well plan to.” Austin replied.

“Good plan. Now, about getting everyone ready to move.” Jackson said as the group turned to look at those who would be making the journey. Well over a hundred of them, many of which were women and children.

“Listen up,” Alicia stated firmly, her voice as commanding as it was melodic. “A lot of the men of New Kinneston have decided to stay and fight if needed. That's their call. And I've given them my word that once we reach Washington City, I will personally bring a strike team back here,” she added. “But they have asked that women and children make the first trip in, and believe me when I tell you that we are committed to protecting you all with our own lives.”

“That said,” Jackson added, nodding to her for a moment. “We ask that you trust our military training and do as we ask of you until we reach Washington City.