chapter 2 - the broom
As you arrive at the station, the lawmen eye your group with a mix of wariness and curiosity. "Looks like you've had quite the morning," one of them says, a hint of a smirk playing on his lips as he takes in the bound and beaten Nightriders. Lopez slides off his horse, his movements surprisingly steady for someone who had been drinking the night before. "We've got a delivery for you, Sheriff," he says, gesturing to the captives.
The sheriff, a grizzled man with a handlebar mustache, steps out of his office and crosses his arms. "Lopez," he says, his voice a low growl. "What have you done now?"
Lopez flashes a grin, his eyes glinting with mischief. "We've brought you a gift, Sheriff," he says, jerking his head towards Black Jack. "This one's got a nice bounty on his head. And look, we've even brought his whole gang."
The sheriff's expression shifts from irritation to surprise, then a cunning smile spreads across his face. "Well, well, looks like you've done the town a favor," he says, stroking his mustache. "But I'll need to verify these claims before I can pay out. Bring 'em inside."
The gang dismounts, and you help Lopez and Sully drag the struggling Black Jack into the station, his curses filling the air. The lawmen eye you all warily but make no move to intervene. The wooden floorboards creak under the weight of the captives as you throw them into a cell, the sound of their protests echoing off the cold stone walls.
"We've got eyewitnesses and evidence," Hawk says confidently, slapping a rolled-up piece of paper onto the sheriff's desk. "The Nightriders have been causing trouble across the state line. They're wanted for theft, assault, and a string of unsolved murders."
The sheriff unrolls the paper, scanning the details with a furrowed brow. "This all checks out," he finally says, looking up at the gang. "But I can't just take your word for it. I'll need to send a wire to confirm the bounties." He turns to one of his deputies. "Get on it."
The room falls silent as the tension hangs in the air, thick as the cigar smoke from Black Jack's earlier taunt. The Nightriders, now bruised and at the mercy of the Bandidos, glare at you through the bars of the cell, their hatred palpable. You can't help but feel a pang of guilt at the lives you've just upended, but you push it aside, knowing that this is the world you've been thrown into.
As the wire is sent off, the sheriff turns to you, his eyes appraising. "You folks must be the legendary Bandidos I've heard about," he says, his tone a mix of respect and wariness. "Your reputation precedes you."
Hawk nods, her ginger hair catching the light from the small window in the sheriff's office. "We've got business to attend to," she says. "But we're always happy to clean up the trash."
As you approach Juan, you notice she's holding a tattered map, her eyes alight with excitement. She quickly signs to you that this is the location of the legendary broom she's been searching for over a decade. The map appears to be an old treasure map, with faded ink and cryptic symbols scattered across it. The rest of the gang seems preoccupied with the captive Nightriders, leaving you and Juan to examine the map in relative privacy.
"What's this?" you ask, curiosity piqued.
Juan nods eagerly and points to an X marked on the map, her eyes pleading for you to understand. You've never seen her so animated before. "The Legendary Broom," she signs, her hands moving swiftly. "It's said to be hidden in a cave up north. It has the power to grant the wielder incredible speed and agility."
Her passion for the quest is contagious, and you find yourself getting drawn into the legend. "Why haven't you told anyone about this before?" you ask, leaning closer.
Juan's eyes dart around the room before she signs, "They wouldn't understand." She taps the map gently. "Only the worthy can find it. I need your help."
You tell Juan that you're willing to help her find the Legendary Broom, but only after the situation with the Nightriders is sorted out and the gang is safely back at camp. She nods, understanding the urgency of the situation at hand. Her eyes, though still filled with excitement for the treasure hunt, show a hint of disappointment at having to wait. The map is folded away and tucked into her pocket, a secret shared between the two of you.
The sheriff's office is a flurry of activity as the lawmen deal with the captured Nightriders. The sheriff, impressed by the gang's bravado and efficiency, counts out the bounty for each one. The coins clink heavily on the desk, a testament to the danger the Bandidos have faced and the rewards they've earned. The tension in the room is palpable, but there's an underlying camaraderie between the gang members that seems to hold everyone together.
As the last of the bounties is counted and the sheriff nods his approval, Lopez cracks his knuckles and winks at you. "Good job, kid," he says, slapping you on the back. "You've got more guts than I gave you credit for." Despite his earlier harshness, there's a genuine warmth in his voice.
"Thank you," you reply, still feeling a bit overwhelmed by the events. The adrenaline from the fight is wearing off, leaving you feeling both exhausted and oddly exhilarated.
Hawk claps her hands, drawing everyone's attention. "Alright, we've got the bounty and the Nightriders are behind bars. Let's not push our luck in this town any longer than we have to." She turns to you with a serious look. "Raven, you did good out there. Keep it up and you'll be a full-fledged member of the Bandidos in no time." The praise feels genuine, and you stand a little taller.
Sully, wiping a smear of blood from his face, chuckles. "Hell of a first day, huh?" He claps you on the shoulder, his grip firm but gentle. "Don't worry, you'll get used to it." His smile is surprisingly warm, given the circumstances.
Karma saunters over, twirling her dual pistols on her fingers. "Goffy, you've got a keen eye," she says, nudging the sniper with her elbow. Goffy's mustache twitches with his smile, and he nods in acknowledgment. "And Raven, you've got a knack for keeping your cool under pressure."
"Thanks," you reply, trying to hide your nerves. "But I couldn't have done it without all of you."
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Benllie emerges from the shadows, a smirk playing on her lips. "Don't get too cozy, Raven," she says in her high-pitched voice. "You're still the new blood. And remember, I've got my eyes on you." There's a teasing glint in her eye, but you can't shake off the feeling that there's more to her words than mere banter.
The gang exits the sheriff's office, the clank of spurs and the jingle of spurs announcing their departure. The townsfolk watch you with a mix of awe and fear, whispering about the infamous Bandidos. The yellow outfits that once brought camaraderie in the game now feel like a beacon of notoriety in the dusty streets of Saint Denis. You all mount up, the leather squeaking as you settle into the saddles.
"We've got to get back to camp and split the bounty," Hawk calls out, her eyes scanning the horizon. The sun is beginning to dip below the distant mountains, casting long shadows across the land. The journey back is quieter than before, the excitement of the victory muted by the weight of the day's events. Each member seems lost in their own thoughts, the reality of their actions sinking in.
As you ride alongside Juan, her silence is almost tangible, her mind clearly racing with thoughts of the treasure map. You decide to lighten the mood, leaning over in the saddle. "Hey," you say, "once we're back and everyone's had some rest, we'll sit down and make a plan to find that broom." She looks at you with a smile that's a mix of gratitude and excitement.
The ride back to camp is a blur of dust and hoofbeats, the adrenaline of the day's events slowly giving way to the quiet rhythm of the horses. When you finally arrive, the campfire casts a warm glow over the tents, and the smell of cooking meat fills the air. The gang members dismount, weary but victorious, and the sound of their laughter and banter fills the night.
As the camp settles down, you find Juan sitting apart from the others, the treasure map laid out before her. You approach her, curiosity about the Legendary Broom still burning in your chest. "How did you even find out about this?" you ask.
Juan's eyes light up as she tells you her story through a series of quick, precise signs. "I heard the whispers of a traveling bard," she signs. "He spoke of a mystical artifact that could outrun the wind itself. I've been searching ever since."
You sit down next to her, studying the map. The symbols and landmarks are unfamiliar, but the excitement in Juan's eyes is infectious. "We'll need supplies and a good plan," you say, trying to keep your own voice down so as not to disturb the other gang members.
Juan nods eagerly and starts pointing out different locations on the map, her hands moving rapidly. "We leave at dawn," she signs, her eyes shining with determination. "We'll need food, water, and weapons."
You look around the camp, noticing the various supplies scattered around. "I think we have what we need," you reply. "But we should talk to Lopez and Hawk before we go. They might have some insights or warnings."
Juan nods solemnly, understanding the gravity of your words. You both get up and walk over to where Lopez and Hawk are sitting, sharing a bottle of whiskey by the fire. They look up as you approach, their expressions curious. "What's on your minds?" Lopez asks, his speech slightly slurred from his earlier drinking.
You explain Juan's discovery of the treasure map and her quest for the Legendary Broom. Lopez's eyes widen, and he snatches the map from the table, his drink momentarily forgotten. "A treasure map, you say?" He looks from the map to Juan, then to you. "You want to go on a treasure hunt?"
Hawk, who had been quietly listening, takes a swig of whiskey before speaking. "It's been a long day, and we've earned a little fun," she says, a hint of amusement in her voice. "But we can't just leave camp unguarded. We've made enemies today."
Lopez nods in agreement, his gaze drifting back to the map. "And we don't know if that map's even real. Could be a load of nonsense some drifter cooked up to get folks like us into trouble."
Juan's expression falls, but she doesn't give up. She points at the map, her eyes pleading, and signs, "It's real. I know it is."
Lopez considers Juan's plea for a moment, then nods slowly. "Alright, you two can go," he says, pointing at Juan and you. "But Pure's coming with you. We can't have you two wandering off without some backup." His decision is final, and you can see the glint of amusement in his eye, as if he's enjoying the idea of the stoic and explosive Pure on a treasure hunt. Pure, for his part, seems unfazed, his low voice murmuring an agreement. Juan's smile lights up, and she nods eagerly, already planning the journey in her head.
The camp is a buzz of activity as you prepare for the treasure hunt. The gang members offer various pieces of advice, some more helpful than others. Benllie, with her usual flair for the dramatic, whispers about curses and ancient traps that guard such powerful artifacts. Goofy, on the other hand, offers practical tips on surviving in the wilderness, his Croatian curses peppering his words. You and Juan pack supplies and weapons, ensuring you have enough to last a few days.
Pure, ever the man of few words, gathers his own gear with a focused intensity. His usual air of detachment is replaced with a mild curiosity as he looks over the map Juan presents to him. His eyes scan the faded ink, and he nods once, confirming he's ready. His low voice rumbles, "We'll need rope and explosives. You never know what we'll find in those caves."
With a grin, Juan nods and points to a pile of supplies. "We've got rope," she signs. "But explosives are your department." You watch as Pure's eyes light up at the mention of explosives, a twinkle of mischief that matches the fire in his eyes.
"Alright, I'll pack some dynamite," he murmurs, his low voice a stark contrast to the excitement in his demeanor. He carefully selects a few sticks, wrapping them in cloth to prevent any accidental detonations.
You, Juan, and Pure set off at dawn, the sun casting a warm glow over the horizon. The camp is still,The three of you ride in silence, each lost in thought, the map Juan found a beacon of adventure and potential danger ahead.
The camp is a buzz of activity as you prepare for the treasure hunt. The gang members offer various pieces of advice, some more helpful than others. Benllie, with her usual flair for the dramatic, whispers about curses and ancient traps that guard such powerful artifacts. Goofy, on the other hand, offers practical tips on surviving in the wilderness, his Croatian curses peppering his words. You and Juan pack supplies and weapons, ensuring you have enough to last a few days.
Pure, ever the man of few words, gathers his own gear with a focused intensity. His usual air of detachment is replaced with a mild curiosity as he looks over the map Juan presents to him. His eyes scan the faded ink, and he nods once, confirming he's ready. His low voice rumbles, "We'll need rope and explosives. You never know what we'll find in those caves."
With a grin, Juan nods and points to a pile of supplies. "We've got rope," she signs. "But explosives are your department." You watch as Pure's eyes light up at the mention of explosives, a twinkle of mischief that matches the fire in his eyes.
"Alright, I'll pack some dynamite," he murmurs, his low voice a stark contrast to the excitement in his demeanor. He carefully selects a few sticks, wrapping them in cloth to prevent any accidental detonations.
You, Juan, and Pure set off at dawn, the sun casting a warm glow over the horizon. The camp is still,The three of you ride in silence, each lost in thought, the map Juan found a beacon of adventure and potential danger ahead.
The journey to the cave's location is arduous, taking you through rugged terrain and treacherous paths. The map's clues are cryptic, leading you across streams and up steep inclines, but Juan's unwavering belief in its authenticity keeps the group motivated. Pure, ever the pragmatist, remains silent, his eyes scanning the environment for any signs of trouble or shortcuts that might help speed the journey.
As you reach the base of the mountain range marked on the map, Juan's excitement reaches a peak. She points to a narrow path that winds its way up the mountain, her eyes sparkling. "This is it," she signs, her hands trembling slightly. "The cave is at the top."
Pure ties his horse to a sturdy tree, his gaze assessing the steep climb ahead. "We'll have to be careful," he says, his low voice a rumble. "The path's too narrow for the horses."
Juan nods, her excitement palpable as she ties up her horse as well. You both follow suit, and the three of you begin the ascent on foot, the horses' whinnies fading into the distance. The path is steep, and the rocks are loose underfoot, but Juan's agility and Pure's brute strength make the climb easier.
"Look out for snakes," Goofy's voice echoes from the camp, his final piece of advice before you disappeared into the mountains. You chuckle nervously, scanning the ground as you climb. The sun beats down on your yellow bandanas, and sweat trickles down your neck.
The path leads you through a dense thicket of thorny bushes. Juan, with her unrivaled speed, darts ahead, clearing a path with her machete. Pure follows closely, his eyes darting around the landscape for any signs of danger or shortcuts. You bring up the rear, feeling the weight of the supplies in your backpack and the gravity of the quest ahead.
As you break through the foliage, you find yourself standing before a massive, dark cave mouth, the very one marked on the map. The air is thick with the scent of damp earth and the faint echo of dripping water. Juan's eyes are wide, her hands clutching the map tightly to her chest. Pure, ever the stoic one, pulls out a stick of dynamite, twirling it in his fingers. "Might come in handy," he murmurs, his smile hinting at his love for explosives.
As you climb through the thicket, Juan's machete slices through the dense vegetation, revealing a hidden entrance to a cave. The mouth of the cave is shadowy and foreboding, the darkness within seemingly impenetrable. The air is cooler here, a stark contrast to the oppressive heat of the day outside. You hear the distant echo of water dripping from the cave's ceiling, creating an eerie rhythm that resonates with the thud of your heartbeats. The cave's entrance is lined with ancient symbols etched into the stone, hinting at a history long forgotten. A faint scent of damp earth and something else, something ancient, fills your nostrils. Pure looks at the symbols, his curiosity piqued, and motions for Juan to hold on while he examines them more closely. The cave beckons, promising adventure, danger, and the possibility of the legendary treasure.