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Chapter Text

In the observation car, one of the tables was being given a wide berth by everyone in the car except the two people sitting across the table from each other and glaring. Nishikino Maki's fingers drummed across the tabletop while Yazawa Nico sat stiffly, staring out the window at the colorful Autumn scenery, while her words hung in the air. The train chugged along, oblivious to its passengers moods.

"You should have stayed home, Doc. With your daughters. Who need you. Nico doesn't."

Maki pushed her chair back. "I had to lift your luggage up to stow it properly."

"Nico didn't ask you to."

"You're still not healed. You'll be a liability to the actual law officers."

Maki barely heard Rin's whispered, "Undercover."

"You…" Nico was almost on her feet when Tojo Nozomi slyly slid into one of the free seats at the table, immediately shuffling her well worn Tarot deck. Maki, familiar with Nozomi's habits, rolled her eyes.

"Ladies, ladies. Some business is best to keep private."

Maki flushed. She hadn't meant to shout out Rin and Umi's profession. But the car was empty of strangers so no damage done. And Maki would watch her words more closely in the future.

"Let's do a quick reading and see if there's a way to get the two of you back in harmony. Would you be fighting like this in front of Dia and Ruby?"

"Probably," Nico grumbled, "The Doctor has a bucking bronco of temper."

Maki's frown turned snarl, "You know nothing about how I...you're just so…I would never…."

"The Lovers." Nozomi announced, a teasing lilt to her voice. Both Nico and Maki snapped their heads around to stare at the card.

"We are not." Maki squeaked.

Nozomi turned over the next card. 10 of Cups. "The Tarot is about possibilities and hints. None of the cards is meant to be taken literally."

"Good." Maki reached to flip The Lovers card to its back, but Nozomi's hand stopped her.

Nico was just watching the cards, occasionally glancing at Maki, who was paying her no attention at all, the tips of her ears nearly red enough to match her hair.

Last card was the Six of Cups. Nozomi smiled.

"Very interesting spread of cards."

"What's it mean?" Nico asked.

"She'll just make something up that amuses her." Maki folded her arms across her torso.

"Maki! I take the Tarot very seriously."

"She does." Eli glanced up from her paper, "The cards have saved my life."

Nico tapped the cards, "What's it mean?"

Nozomi smiled. "Interpreting is an art, not just "making something up.""

Maki huffed.

"From this, I take The Lovers as a card that sets a baseline of passion, of magnetism, of meeting someone you just can't ignore, who fits in your life in a way you couldn't have imagined before meeting them." Nozomi's green eyes never stopped watching Maki, who was twirling a curl of hair and staring past Nico's shoulder out the window.

"Passion can be positive, a flame of love, or conflict, jealously or indecision. With the Ten Of Cups, I see new path in front of both of you, closure, a reality still unknown. The Six of Cups hints that you might have found the person who can match you step for step, dance with you into a community of harmony."

Nozomi tapped her deck, turning over another card. The Eight of Wands. She snorted, winking at Maki. "This…encourages a physical connection."

Nico nodded, as if taking notes. Maki stared across the table, eyes wide, then she rubbed her temples, pushing her fingers into her hair, leaning forward, muttering.

"I don't need this right now."

"The cards have their own timeline, Maki. Some things can't be avoided."

Nico pushed back from the table, "Thanks for the reading. Nico appreciates your expertise."

Maki swept the cards back into the pile. The Lovers slipped out, staying in the center of the table. "You can't take that seriously."

Nico shrugged. "Nico's never had a reading before. I appreciate the experience."

"I'll be in the dining car." Maki announced to the air, as she stomped toward the door.

"Going to follow her?" Nozomi couldn't help being curious. Nico's neutral expression gave nothing away.

"Nope. Nico's going to nap."

"Rest while you can." Eli agreed.

"That's Nico's plan."

"Sweet dreams." Nozomi gathered her cards.

Nico chuckled. "Wouldn't mind 'em."

Umi looked up from the notebook she was writing in, "Rest well. We need you healed."

"Yeah." Nico glanced where Maki had exited the car, "Got to make sure the Doctor's good work isn't wasted."

"An admirable goal."

"Nico's a good egg." Nico headed for the sleeping car, wanting some privacy to corral the images suddenly flooding her imagination.

###

Maki stirred her coffee. It was not nearly enough activity for the turmoil she was experiencing. Even though she'd taken her coffee black, she still tapped the spoon impatiently against the cup. Then she felt a nudge at her thigh and jumped. Looking down, she saw the bright eyes of Hanayo's sheep dog, Juniper.

"Sorry." Hanayo whispered. "She's just glad for someone familiar."

Maki nodded, motioning for Hanayo to sit down, then ruffling between Juniper's ears.

"Are you all right, Maki?"

Maki shrugged. "Nozomi too often puts me on bad footing."

Hanayo had a tolerant smile, "She cares an awful lot about her friends. And you and Nico were getting loud."

Maki snorted. "She's so frustrating."

"Nico?"

"Yes. Why is she doing this?"

"Rin says she wants to make amends."

"They almost killed her."

Hanayo chuckled, "That didn't stop her at all."

"Yes, it did. You saw her before I got there." Maki grimaced at the memory of feverish fragility. Nico wasn't some kind of folk hero.

Hanayo nodded, biting her lip.

"That wound could have easily gone septic."

"I think Ruby and Dia gave her something to get better for." Hanayo met Maki's gaze evenly, "You did too. She really likes you, Maki."

Maki flushed, not willing to say anything.

After an awkward pause, Hanayo continued talking. "Rin's really fitting in." A blush, "She's so cute and sweet and nice and…she's going to come back and help me with the ranch after this."

Maki smiled, "I'm happy for you. But why did you come?"

"Why did you?" Hanayo shivered, "I'm better here than home, imagining terrible things. The herds can live at South Forks for a couple of weeks." Hanayo looked back toward the door. "Rin found me and I'm not going to lose her."

Maki was impressed by the surety in Hanayo's statement. Rin seemed so open, so friendly, words and affection coming easily. But even with Ruby and Dia, Nico was always holding herself back, always hesitating on promises. Was it something about how Maki was treating her? Or something about Nico's future plans? Nico said she wanted a family. What did that mean for Maki?

The coffee burnt Maki's tongue but she treasured the shield of silence it offered her. Hanayo's attention turned to Juniper as she waited for her own order. It was a comfortable moment, Maki grateful for her friend's quiet presence.

###

Umi frowned. None of her original plans would work. They'd left their horses behind and taken the train instead of sneaking out of town. It was very public. So perhaps they'd been noticed. The A-Rise Gang was rumored to have eyes everywhere and paid well for information.

"Whatcha doing?" Rin leaned over Umi's shoulder, glancing at Umi's notebook.

"Remaking our plans." Umi waved Rin to a seat. "Do you have any insights to bring to consideration?"

"We could block the tracks."

Umi shook her head, "We don't want to damage the train or hurt any passengers."

"Oh, right. So how were we going to run this ambush anyway?"

"Get in the locomotive somehow and commandeer the train."

"To where?" Back to Denver?"

"There's a rail spur here, to the north." Umi pointed to a detail filled map drawn on her page. "We just have to detour the train. Then we can handle the gang. If we do it right, they won't notice the change until it's too late."

"So we need to throw the switch."

"Exactly." Umi tapped her pencil, "Leaving some of our people on the train to guard the shipment and the passengers."

"There's not a lot of us, Umi."

"No, there aren't. But I only need a couple of people to confront any robbers."

Rin rubbed her chin, "They'd better nyat be people A-Rise would recognize."

"Agreed." Umi wrote a quick breakdown of the group. "So, you'll be in charge at the railspur and I'll take the gold guard duty with Eli, Nozomi, and Kotori."

"Which leaves me, Nico, Maki and Kayochin for diverting the train."

"Yes."

"We'll get to Denver ahead of when the gold ships out?"

"A couple of days."

Rin nodded. "Me and Kayochin and Nico and Maki can head north immediately and camp out so no one sees us."

Umi nodded. She reread her plan, made one small change, nodded and closed the book. "It will work. It has too."

"We'll get Honoka back, Umi."

"We have to."

###

Tsubasa Kira was lounging in the theatre's ritziest patron's box, watching a pretty girl dancing on stage. Toudo Erena had a gun out, watching every entrance. Yuuki Anju tapped her feet to the same cadence as the dancer onstage.

"Big group of law enforcement headed east." Anju paused the dance along.

"We going to take them out en route?" Erena picked up her gun, always eager for a target.

Tsubasa lit a cigar, "No. We let them catch up to us. I want to know who their informant is."

"Don't you already?" Anju giggled.

Tsubasa glared, "No."

"Honoka brought Rin into the group." Anju stomped, still angry at the betrayal.

"Rin fooled all of us. And Honoka isn't smart enough to fool me."

"Are you sure it wasn't Nico?" Erena loaded in bullets.

Tsubasa shook her head, "Nah. I knew her before she joined. She just didn't have the stomach for what we do. Wanted it to be romantic, Robin Hood fairytale la la la, not hard choices" Tsubasa paused, "And after she left, someone leaked the Laredo job."

"Honoka wasn't in on that."

"I know." Tsubasa stood, ignoring the stage, face grim, "It makes me wonder if I can trust anyone."

Anju and Erena exchanged a look. Should they be worried? When Tsubasa got stuck on an idea, violence was a quick step after.

###

"Chow time!!!" Rin announced.

Maki looked up from her Musical Courier magazine. She'd just finished an article on Music In Paris that made her wonder when the girls would be old enough for a European trip. If Ruby's reaction to the Pacific proved precedent, the prospect of an Atlantic crossing might terrify her, but surely Dia and Nico…

Maki shook her head, no, not the time for those thoughts. But as she watched her companions move toward the dining car, she realized Nico was missing. Perhaps she'd fallen asleep in her bunk. Healing was a wearying business.

Yep. Maki heard a snore. She paused before pulling the curtain back, deciding to knock briskly on the wood near Nico's head instead.

"Wha…"

"Nico?"

"Maki? What's the matter?" Nico pulled the curtain aside, eyes blinking, hair loose.

"I thought you might like to know it's dinner hour and everyone is headed to the dining car."

"Oh." Nico blinked once, deliberately, then smiled. "Thanks, Maki, that was thoughtful."

Maki could feel herself turning away, "It's only polite. If you missed dinner, it would be a problem for everyone."

Nico snickered, "Well, Nico appreciates your excellent manners."

Maki blushed. "You sound fine."

"Was Maki worried?"

Maki ignored that question.

"Nico had the best doctor."

Maki whirled, "Then why don't you listen to me?"

"And why don't you listen to Nico and TRUST Nico and go home to your daughters."

Maki sighed, "Ruby and Dia would never forgive me if something happened to you." Maki knew she wouldn't forgive herself, but didn't know how much she could do to prevent Nico getting injured if there was a bad firefight.

Nico refused to look away, her eyes too dark in the shadows to read her mood. After too long for Maki's comfort, she spoke, her tone soft, persuasive, comforting. Maki found herself leaning in.

"These are bad people, Maki. They will hurt you. Nico doesn't want to have to worry about you."

"I ride out alone frequently. Bandits and bears, neither of them stop me."

"Maki's very brave." Nico's fingers gently stroked Maki's cheek, the touch so soft Maki barely noticed, "I want you safe."

Her throat suddenly too clogged for speech, Maki's hand briefly covered Nico's.

Nico's smile was bright in the shadows.

"Nico isn't here to fight you."

"Yeah." Maki stepped back, tension relieved. "Let's get some food in you."

"Okay, Doc." Nico jumped down, "And you can tell Nico Ruby and Dia stories."

Maki smiled, "I'll trade a few for Yazawa sibling adventures."

Nico offered her hand, "It's a deal, Doc."

"Maki."

"Maki." Nico's handshake was gentle, her voice a charm point.

Chapter Text

Honoka sprinted, face covered, clothes dark, hat stolen from a stranger. She had to make it back to the hotel before anyone noticed her absence. The news of law enforcement heading to Denver had Tsubasa questioning everything, all of A-Rise was on edge, too eager to reach for their guns. This was their big score of the year, before the gang splintered into smaller clusters for winter survival and reconnaissance. So it needed to go well. Tsubasa had a reputation to keep up. Which mattered as much as the gold to the gang leader. And after Rin had saved Nico and fled, Tsubasa had a score to settle with the Federal marshals as well. The stakes were high. Umi was one of the smartest people Honoka knew, but the marshal doubted her lover would realize the viciousness Tsubasa was capable of. Honoka had to make sure Umi wasn't riding into a death trap with no backup. Honoka's job was hard enough, she couldn't add the weight of Umi's loss and Kotori's heartbreak to it. Tonight, by some gift of Fortune, Honoka had a room in the very back of a desolate hotel and a roommate who had found alcohol and a partner somewhere else. So three hours before dawn, Honoka had taken her biggest risk yet, crawling out her window, climbing down, and sending a desperate message to the only person she had left to trust.

###

Kotori finally saw a glimmer of sun. So she turned from the window to stare at Umi, who slept as soundly in the Pullman's stateroom as she did in their own home. She would be embarrassed if she ever realized how many mornings Kotori spent like this, lying on her side, eyes etching in memory the smallest details of Umi's face, the cuteness of her nose, the plump lips, the peacefulness that Umi kept shielded during her waking hours. Kotori reached out a gentle hand, stopping her fingers the barest space above Umi's flawless skin. Trust, Umi trusted Kotori and Honoka, trusted them enough to take a chance on this life they had together.

Umi's golden eyes opened. "Love?"

"Umi."

"She'll come back to us."

Kotori threw herself on Umi's solid shoulder, sobbing as the rainclouds rolled in.

###

Nozomi was enjoying the view. Eli, Eli as The Russian, dressed with flair. A cream shirt with small prairie flowers embroidered on the yoke, a bandana blue as her cornflower eyes, a cream hat cocked at a flirtatious angle, gunbelt sitting atop the curve of denim clad hips. Eli moved gracefully, with confidence, grin easy. But Nozomi knew all Eli's tells. And the tiniest twitch in the laugh lines around those emotive blues had Nozomi scrutinizing every stranger's approach, searching for any hints of danger to her soulmate.

They were about to step out onto the rainy platform, change trains, Eli striding toward the door, commanding the suddenly crowded nook. Then she turned back, reached out her hand, and pulled Nozomi even with her. A quick nod, cheek kiss, beaming confidence. "We got this, partner. You can bet on it."

"Always."

###

The train with half their group had pulled out of the station. The rain had remained. Maki watched Nico, staring at some distant point, the collar of the duster she'd gifted her pulled up, hat pulled down, tattered bandana hiding most of her face, raindrops dripping down the waxed canvas. Hanayo had huddled under an awning, out of the rain. Pacing was better, Maki decided, ignore the wet cold against her neck, wait for Rin to return with horses or news.

Hanayo shivered. "We should start in the morning.There won't be good footing for our horses."

"We could just take the train a few more stops." The only sensible option. Maki at least realized that.

Nico shook her head, "Rin's too recognizable. The A-Rise gang will be gathering from different locations. Most will travel by train."

"What kind of bandits have an annual convention?" Maki snarked.

"Braggarts." Nico stomped. "They figure they're too big to be stopped."

Rin rushed up, holding an open umbrella, shaking the rain off. "Got horses for tomorrow and rooms for tonight. We can get food too."

Hanayo grabbed Rin and hugged her.

"Thought you'd like that." Rin grinned.

"More delays." Maki grumbled.

Nico pulled her hat lower, "Nico will go right to the room. Bring up some food."

"Nobody'll know who you…" Hanayo chirped.

"Those damn posters are all over. The closer we get to Denver, the more of 'em Nico sees."

"It's a bad picture. You look twelve."

Nico glared at Maki, eyes sharp above the bandana. Maki almost laughed. But the cold at her neck reminded her of all the ways this was going to be an uncomfortable night.

"Me and Hanayo will take one room; you and Nico get the other."

"What!" Maki startled. "No."

Rin's eyes were wide. "Did you want to fit us all in one room?"

"No. I don't sleep well with anyone else in the room…"

Nico's face had a complicated expression at that announcement.

"I mean…it's just…I'd like some privacy."

"They only had two rooms, Maki. What was I supposed to do?" Rin pointed to a yawning Nico, "And Nico's asleep already."

"Too cold to be asleep. Nico needs to warm up. With a blanket. Or a bath. And Nico doesn't want to argue about roommates."

"Fine." Maki turned away.

"That's settled." Rin handed Nico a key. "There's a back stair. Second floor, room 203. Kayo-chin and I will bring up food."

"I can get us food. You don't know what I like."

Rin giggled, "Rin doesn't think Maki likes anything."

"I like to eat." Maki pushed her antagonist forward. "Let's go."

###

Maki came upstairs with a box. The smell of warm food had Nico salivating. She hadn't realized she was that hungry.

"What's for dinner, Do…"

Maki glared.

"What's for dinner, Maki?"

"Biggest steaks I could find, heap of mashed potatoes, and some overboiled greenish vegetables."

"You make it sound appetizing."

Maki shrugged, "It's food. Steak'll help build you up."

Maki pulled a bottle out of her coat, "I also found a decent bottle of bourbon that wandered here from Kentucky."

"Nico likes to keep a sober head."

"Well, your Doctor recommends an aperitif for digestion." Maki poured out a shot and drank it down, hiss gritting out between teeth.

Nico held up a hand when Maki offered the bottle and another jigger.

"Suit yourself." Maki sat at the small table.

Nico pulled tins out of the box, splitting the food between her and Maki. The greens really weren't anything appetizing, a mix of peas and lima beans, probably freed from last year's cans. Nico would have to be far hungrier before she bit into a lima bean.

"Itadakimasu." Nico muttered.

Maki laughed, "Cultural relic."

"Comfort ritual. Mama always said it reminded her of dinners with Papa in Japan."

"You were born in Japan?"

Nico nodded, cutting the steak in careful bits, "My siblings were born here. Papa loved how Northerners fought for people to be free and how many different cultures mingled in cities. He was always talking to new people. Nico learned to be friendly from him."

"My parents came over to learn new medical techniques. And so I could attend a medical school. Papa wanted me to have that opportunity."

"Do you like being a doctor?"

"I can help people so I do."

Not a direct answer. Nico changed the question. She remembered Nozomi, the Tarot cards and all the possibilities that had been shuffled into the room. But maybe it was best to stay present and start with the past.

"Did someone in San Francisco break your heart?"

Maki felt the anger rile up, but Nico's expression was open, friendly, curious. Maki didn't want to turn the mood grim.

"No." Maki poured another shot of whiskey, the taste of frustrated arguments from the past still sour in her mouth. "I did get tired of my parents setting me up with their idea of the perfect son-in-law."

"But Maki was never interested?"

Maki shook her head and offered to pour Nico a shot. Nico accepted.

"Nico likes pretty girls. So let's toast pretty girls." Nico raised her glass, encouraging Maki to join her.

Maki clinked her glass against Nico's, downed her shot, felt her cheeks warming with the whiskey's influence, "Do pretty girls like Nico?"

Nico leaned in, eyes a-sparkle, "Do you?"

Maybe it was the whiskey. Or the tired. But Maki leaned in instead of leaning away.

"You almost died. I had to save you." Maki didn't have the words for how her feelings had deepened over the time she'd spent with Nico, watching her daughters grow closer to the visitor, sensing Nico's curiosity, fearing Nico's absence.

"You did save Nico."

"And then I wanted you to get well." Maki could spare a small truth. "As a…friend. Not as a doctor."

Ah, now, Nico thought, this might be progress. Maki usually only talked this openly in the dark, under the brilliant pleasures of the night sky. Here in the hotel room, by lamplight, the amethyst in Maki's eyes shimmered with shadowed depths Nico read confusion in. She reached out her hand, covering Maki's. She hadn't realized how much Maki had been vibrating but now, suddenly, there was stillness.

"Nico?"

Nico's heart twisted at the turmoil in Maki's voice.

"It's okay. Nico healed. Nothing scary's going to happen."

Maki slid her fingers through Nico's.

"I don't understand why this feels…nice."

Nice. Nico would take nice. Nice was a feeling Nico could build on.

"Nico feels warm, happy." She squeezed Maki's hand, "And like I want to be closer to you."

Maki's tongue licked out. "I don't…I've never…"

Nico could feel Maki pulling away. Nico quickly dropped a kiss on Maki's fingers, and let go.

Maki held her hand against her chest, eyes wide. "Huh?"

Nico grinned, shoving tired two weeks into the future. Nothing but cheerful confidence right here, at this crucial moment.

"Nico's not in a rush. There's so much Nico doesn't know about Maki. We have time. Nico loves to talk." Nico pushed her chair back.

Maki nodded, slowly, watching Nico.

"Right now, I need to get ready for bed. Don't want to get in trouble with my doctor." Nico exaggerated a yawn, stretching her arms out as she stood.

Maki's relaxed smile was Nico's new favorite sight. "No, you really don't. I might report your lack of cooperation to Dia."

"Now, there's a real threat."

Shared laughter. Nico had transmuted confusion into comfort. Enough alchemy for tonight.

"At least Rin got us a place with a bathtub. Nico could use a good soak. Will Maki be all right alone?"

"Got a magazine to finish. Can I wash up and change first? I'll fill the tub for you."

"Thanks. Nico needs to unpack."

Maki hesitated, stopping to stare at the bed.

"Rin did mess up with the one bed though."

Don't make this awkward, Nico told herself. "Nico's a sound sleeper. Maki doesn't have to worry about Nico talking all night."

Maki smirked. "And you won't take up much room."

Nico had put her bag on the bed and grabbed a pillow, threatening Maki. "Keep it up, Doc, and Nico will make you sleep on the floor."

"Oh, is that what Nico does with those pretty girls?"

Unexpected boldness. Nico grinned, "Maybe someday you'll find out."

"Who says I want to?"

"You just did." Nico swatted Maki. "Go wash up. Nico needs her soak before getting on a horse in the morning."

"Yes, ma'am."

###

Ah, Nico felt human again. Right before she was about to ride off into the mountains of Colorado to camp for at least three days. And then…Nico pulled her nightshirt over her head. She'd bought enough clothes to stuff a suitcase before getting on the train. Not Nico's first choice for stylish, but definitely warm. Gloomy weather had moved in. Nico wasn't ready for Autumn yet. She would have loved to spend summer in Otonokizaka Falls, well, healthy, and exploring the area, learning from Maki, Dia, and Ruby what their favorite spots were. Nico knew that Ruby and Dia would welcome her back with eager arms, but Maki, Nico didn't yet know enough about Maki to make any predictions. She couldn't even be sure that when she opened the door of the bathroom, Maki wouldn't have bolted to another room or hotel.

Nico stepped into the room and there was Maki, not even nervously sitting on one of the chairs, but curled up on the right side of the bed, nearest the door, snoring, her magazine fallen to the side. Nico stepped softly across the room, wool socks prickly, tucking Maki under the quilt, putting the magazine on the nightstand. Then Nico turned out the lamp and slid into bed, more than a full day's worth of weary.

###

Maki woke up, heart racing, room dark. Where was she? Oh, the hotel room. She wasn't in bed alone. Nico had joined her. Maki turned over, surprised by Nico's closeness, the warmth. When had Nico's arm snuck under her shoulders? How was someone as tiny as Nico taking up practically the entire bed?

Nico muttered something. Her arm moved. Maki rolled a little closer before she could tense and stop herself. Nico felt warm, and welcoming. Maki let tired talk her out of pushing herself away. This was nothing like when Ruby wanted to cling to her in the night, a child terrified by nightmares, needy and draining. Even asleep, in the dark, there was a draw, an allure radiating from Nico. Maki let herself lean into the comfort of strong, steady breathing. As Maki fell back into sleep's darkness, Nico pulled her closer and warmth wrapped them up.

Chapter Text

Nico had woken before Maki, and snuck down the hall to wake Rin up so the ginger could run down for breakfast. No time for any kind of feelings. Or lingering in a surprising, cozy moment. Eat breakfast, leave before anyone connects Nico and "Wanted" posters. After a quick meal of ham, biscuits, and gravy, Nico headed to the stables, getting the horses outfitted, her bandana hiding her face, her hat brim pulled down practically to her nose. She'd picked a feisty sorrel filly. Rin had chosen matching buckskins for her and Hanayo, leaving Maki with a beautiful dark grullo paint mustang that kept nudging at her for a treat.

"Morning, Nico." Maki walked in, hair wet, hat in hand, ears slightly pink.

"Did you get breakfast?"

Maki nodded.

"This one's yours." Nico pointed to the mustang and handed Maki an apple, "Make friends."

Maki raised the hand with the apple toward an eager new acquaitance. "You're pretty..."

"Oh, so you sweet talk fillies."

"Pretty persistent." Maki smiled at the tickle of the horse's lips on her palm as the apple was snapped up.

Nico snorted. "Her name is Midnight. My girl here is Rose. Rin'll be right back. She's worried we'll need extra blankets tonight, for us and the horses."

"At least no on will be expecting us so we can keep a fire going."

"Yeah. Umi's plan is tricky. I don't think Tsubasa would think anyone would do something that complicated. So that'll work for us."

"Only the bank robbers make plans?"

"Something like that." Nico cinched Rose's saddle over a blanket, "She thinks the marshals are lazy and greedy."

"Umi's not like that. Rin doesn't seem like that either."

"No. She's too honest. Like Maki."

"What do you mean?"

Nico shrugged, petting Rose and whispering something in her ear.

"Nico?"

"Nico can read your expressions. You and Rin hold nothing back. It's how I knew I could trust her. And you."

"I'm glad you did."

Silence. Eating breakfast while Maki had struggled fully  awake had been comfortable. No mention of the night before or sleeping in the same bed. Nico had asked Maki what article made her fall asleep. Maki had to admit she didn't remember, which prompted Nico to wonder if Maki was wasting her money. Just breakfast talk. And Maki had relaxed, Nico leaving before Maki got out from the covers to wash up and change. And now they were here, in the livery stable, saddling horses together.

"I'm glad Rin found Hanayo. She seemed pretty lonely."

Midnight munched the rest of the apple as Maki strapped her bedroll to the back of the saddle. "Can't be easy pretending to be someone you're not."

"Oh, Rin didn't pretend. She just never really shared any of her history. She's a hard worker. And friendly. Talks a lot. No one noticed what she didn't talk about." Nico looped Rose's lead rope around a post. "But Nico knows lonely."

"Were you?"

"Nico makes friends easy. And I got to visit Mama and the sibs pretty often."

Maki looped Midnight's rope next to Rose's, "Are you lonely now?"

"Maki's here."

Maki expected Nico to continue on, to say something about her time in Otonizaka Falls, instead the tiny cowpuncher seemed to be watching Maki's expression. A thoughtful half smile made for a sad Nico, Maki thought. Then Nico asked a quiet question.

"Do you miss Dia and Ruby?"

What would Nico think if Maki said no, not yet. She was used to being away for a couple of days at a time. And this trip had been busy and bustling and confusing and stuffed with chatter and conversation and what Maki missed was walking out of her house, after tucking the girls in, to stare up at the stars, wondering, rambling through thoughts and plans. And then the feeling of stepping inside, into her house, familiar and safe and full of love and sleeping family.

"I'm always glad to see them when I get home." Now Maki had the complicated expression.

"Nico bets they won't stop hugging you for days." Nico tilted her head, considering, "You look huggable." Nico took a step toward Maki, who ducked behind Midnight.

"Have either of you seen Hanayo?" Rin and Juniper trotted into the stable. They were old friends by now, the sheepdog following the ginger everywhere.

"Not since Nico woke you up for breakfast." Nico stared at Maki for a moment, while the doctor preoccupied herself with the saddle. "Nico will go find her. Time to ride out."

"Yeah." Maki watched Nico walk away, angry that her own actions had hastened Nico's departure.

Rin nodded at Maki, but all of her attention was on strapping the extra blankets to Cream and Sugar, the two buckskins she and Hanayo would be riding.

With Nico gone, it was too silent.

"Got an apple I can borrow to return?" Maki asked Midnight, who shook her head vehemently, mane tickling at Maki's cheek. She had a sudden sense memory of Nico's silky hair, of waking up with lips tingling from contact with clinging strands, fingers gently smoothing them back into place. Had that been a dream?

###

"Oh, what a big man. Throwing in a whole dollar."

The Russian was in her zone, seated at a table, men clustered around, shoving closer, eager to get her attention by their prowess at cards. Nozomi sat on a bench where she could keep an eye on the action. And her Eli. Amazing the transformation that came over Eli at the gaming table, the winking, flirting confidence. No one in the room could look away. But Nozomi had to when Umi slid into the seat next to her.

"No one looks like the pictures Rin took."

Nozomi frowned. "Maybe they're planning to block the tracks."

"That would be unfortunate for our plans."

Nozomi felt the itch in her fingertips that meant she wanted a reading, some insight into this situation. But she also wanted to be here, to make sure that no one pressed Eli beyond her comfort. To cast cards would require all her attention.

"I must talk to Kotori. And the bank guards."

"Do you think they might be in on the gang's plan?"

Umi froze. "Perhaps. I had not given that possibility much weight. But if there is a mole, inside information might allow us to adjust our plans."

Nozomi hummed. She hated to leave Eli alone but questioning the guards might reveal hidden malice. Eli could handle herself. Nozomi would do no favors by coddling her partner. Eli had long mastered the skills she needed in this situation.

"Let's ask the guards some questions." Nozomi stood, waving at Eli, who winked. "Eli will be fine."

Umi glanced at the chips Eli had just swept into her pile, "And buying the drinks when we succeed"

Nozomi giggled.

###

Honoka let the reins fall across her saddle, loose in her hands. Tsubasa had changed plans. Again. She was expecting resistance on the train. And the original divert the train up the little used spur plan…Honoka got the sense it was too easy, that Tsubasa wanted the A-Rise gang to make a statement, that the Federal Marshals infiltrating her gang had made it personal. Cold blooded robbery was safer than hot blooded revenge. But a switch had flipped in the gang leader. Now this was much more dangerous. And Umi and Kotori might be on that train, if they'd gotten Honoka's message. As Honoka watched the crates of dynamite being put into a wagon, she found herself hoping that they'd missed a connection somewhere. Or that her last minute gamble would come through.

"Conk-la-ree! conk-la-ree." Honoka's grip on the reins tightened. To most, a red winged blackbird called for attention. To Honoka, it was an answer. Now her plans could change too.

###

A morning of hard riding. Rin had a good eye for horses; their speed and stamina exceeded the usual livery hires. A creek to the right would let the group stop for food and water.

Nico dismounted, eager for the next task. "Someone make a fire. Nico will cook up something quick."

Rin shook her head, "Let's just eat the sandwiches. No time for a fire."

Maki reached into her saddlebag for the Thermos. "Coffee's probably still warm."

"No one wants Nico's cooking." Nico crossed her arms and pouted.

"That's not true." Hanayo squeaked, "I'd love…"

"Let's take care of our horses now." Maki flicked Rose's lead at Nico, "They've been doing the hard work."

"I'm worried." Rin announced as Sugar drank at the creek.

"Why?"

"What if something happens before they get to the spur?"

"We won't know." Maki paced, glad to be dismounted.

"We need to help." Rin couldn't stay still, sweating anxiety.

"What do you want to do?" Nico was unwrapping a roast beef and cheese.

"What can we do, Rin?" Hanayo took Sugar's lead rope, soothing the worried horse.

"Ride back along the tracks in case anything happens."

"We can't go as fast as a train, Rin." Maki poured out coffee.

"What if they do something before the spur?" Rin slapped her hat against her thigh, startling Hanayo and the buckskins, "Tsubasa's sneaky."

"And she must be on high alert." Nico said, slowly.

"Yup."

Nico and Rin locked eyes.

Nico crammed the sandwich in her mouth, chewing rapidly, while she handed around food to the rest of the group.

"Let's get moving."

###

Umi and Nozomi eyed the guards at the door of the mail car. Two men, two shotguns, hands tightening on the stocks when their visitors lingered.

"Just went one car too far." Nozomi leaned into Umi, giggling.

"Best you head one car back then, ma'am."

Nozomi shrugged, sliding an arm through Umi's, "C'mon, sugar, you got to be able to find our stateroom. I know you didn't drink that much." Another giggle covered a grumble from Umi, who let Nozomi pull her through the smoking car, then shook off her arm.

"The guards seem legitimate." Umi whispered, "I don't want to reveal who we are unless..."

Nozomi hesitated in the doorway. "Agreed. But what about those two?" Nozomi nodded toward a pair of androgynous looking passengers, scruffy boots, faded bandanas at their throats, coats pulled close, newly scrubbed jeans, and hat brims lowered to shade their eyes.

"Let's see." Umi strode to a seat opposite their targets, settled in and asked politely, "Got any tobacco? I'll pay."

A grunt. One of them reached into their pocket and pulled out a packet of cigarettes. "Two bits."

Umi worked a quarter out of her vest fob pocket and tossed it at them.

"Dearest." Umi called, "I acquired cigarettes."

Nozomi squealed and rushed to sit next to Umi, "Ooh, is there a flag felt? You know I'm collecting them."

The seller grinned, "Yup. Made your little lady happy there, pal."

Umi had perhaps hoped to put Nozomi on the spot by throwing tobacco at her. Instead Nozomi was cooing over the flag of Burmah and asking the potential bandit for a light.

"She hates when I smoke so never keeps matches." Nozomi made a gagging face, "The taste."

"Nozomi!" Umi was on her feet.

Nozomi grabbed her elbow, yanking Umi down with surprising strength.

"She's a shy one." Nozomi smirked, blowing out smoke.

Umi sat primly, ignoring how closely Nozomi was cozying up to her, thinking of Kotori's quiet and constant support.

"What brings you folks out this way?" Nozomi could actually curl smoke rings.

"Visiting." A gruff dead end to the conversation.

Which Nozomi ignored.

"We went to Denver for the first time. I'm not a big city gal, but this one wanted to show off. Saw crystallized gold at the Museum of Natural History. I didn't know gold could look that sparkly. I mean" Nozomi showed off the large diamond on her ring finger, "diamonds, sure, but gold?"

Potential bandit whistled, looked at Umi with respect. "Should have charged you more for those smokes."

Umi shrugged. Letting Nozomi do the talking seemed to be working.

"Hey, Mal." The fourth wheel pulled their hat down further, stretching out their legs, "Thought we were gonna nap."

"Oh, yeah. Sorry, Chas." An apologetic pull of the hat toward Umi, "Pardon me, folks. Been a long day."

"Sorry to bother your friend with my silly chatter." Nozomi giggled. "Thank you for the cigarettes. I'll just lay out my cards over there and let you three nap." A wink at Umi, "You'll need your strength for later."

Umi groaned, but stretched out her legs and slouched.

###

"That's not the plan" Erena's voice carried to where Honoka was lingering, fussing with her saddle's cinch.

"It's what I want to do."

"We have everything set up for…"

Tsubasa slammed a hand into a tree, "I have a wagon full of dynamite, a curve in the track 3 miles north that the train'll hit in two hours, and a feeling in my gut that says grab the gold coins and run."

"Tsubasa's always been right." Anju picked a side.

"Tsubasa's been acting afraid since Nico and that marshal fled."

The anger in Tsubasa's voice made Honoka shiver, "Nico bled out and got what traitors deserve, Rin slunk away. No one gets the better of Tsubasa Kira."

"Not as long as we stick to the plan."

"If you don't have the stomach for this take this and I'll see you in Ruidoso this winter." Tsubasa grabbed her horse's lead, pulling it closer, lifting off the saddlebags weighted with cash, throwing them at Erena's feet.

Honoka peeked over the horse. No one was paying any attention to her. Erena weighed the saddlebags for a moment with the tip of her boot, then dropped them. "If I leave, I don't need anything from you."

Then she turned to Anju. "Is this what you want?"

Anju nodded.

Erena kicked the saddlebags toward Tsubasa. "We'd better mount up then. I'll take my usual cut when we divvy up the loot."

"Thanks, friend."

Honoka stepped into her stirrups, petting her bay mare. "C'mon, Dusty. We got to get a riding fast."

And thinking faster.

###

The trees opened up and the y in the railroad tracks appeared before them, switch visible by the side of the tracks. Rin dismounted.

"This will just take me a minute."

"Do you need help?" Hanayo asked.

"Nah. It's easy enough. Got the key right here." Rin pulled out a large chunky brass key. Then she knelt next to the switch stand, unlocked the chain, pulled hard on the handle, and watched as the rails shifted and the signalling targets rotated into their new position, yellow color visible from any locomotives.

"Good to go." She closed the lock. ""Let's see if we can catch some bandits."

Maki wasn't sure about Rin's ride along the rails plan. It hadn't been anything like what they'd discussed with Umi. But she did understand the itchy feeling, the urge to do something besides wait. She glanced at Nico, who had a serious expression, but then leaned forward to whisper into Rose's ear with a smile. Surely Nico would agree that they should talk more about this before rushing off.

But before Maki could say anything a deafening, ear shattering boom startled the forest, shaking trees, ground shifting, Midnight froze, Nico struggled as Rose jumped to the side, Cream reared, Sugar stepped back with a scream that blended into the birds screeching as they fled for the air. Maki been around mines enough to know what dynamite sounded like. Had A-Rise already attacked the train. There would be casualties.

Instinctively, she urged Midnight into a gallop, aiming for the ashy dark cloud billowing up.

"Maki! Wait." Nico shouted.

Maki didn't slow Midnight's pace.

Rin and Nico both took a minute to check their rifles. This was no time to be caught unprepared. Or to be last on the scene.

Chapter Text

Twenty minutes before

The wagon with dynamite was slowing Tsubasa down. They were in sight of the railroad tracks and could see the smoke from the approaching train. Frustrated, Tsubasa had dismounted and taken over the reins of the wagon, urging the cart horses faster with curses and slaps. It seemed to be working, at least from Honoka's perspective. So she had a hard choice, do something while they were on the move, before actual contact with the train. To wait would be endangering too many innocents. And Umi and Kotori. Honoka wished no one ill but Tsubasa had made bad choices over and over again. Today, there would be consequences. Honoka slowed her horse, letting fellow members of the gang pass her. One gloved hand rested on the handle of her Colt pistol, relaxed so as not to draw attention. Honoka would briefly have the element of surprise. She hoped she'd read the signs and signals right. A glance at the plume of smoke from the train. It was getting closer. No more delay. Her hand hesitated. It gritted too hard against Honoka's nature, a sneak attack. The dynamite wasn't going anywhere faster than her bullet would find it. And Honoka wasn't a cold blooded killer.

"Hey, Tsubasa. Better jump."

Kira Tsubasa's head swivelled and chilly green eyes locked onto Honoka's, opening wide as so many little hints swarmed into a realization about why she'd never found out the identity of the marshal. Right under her nose. Like the dynamite. And then Tsubasa leapt through the air, rolling into a landing.

One snake strike motion and Honoka's gun was out and two bullets headed to the load of dynamite in the wagon. Barely even a breath before a searing heat pulsed outward with a huge, concussive noise, throwing riders off horses, other horses stumbling back and rearing. Forewarned, Honoka controlled her horse, steering her clear of the chaos. And then the riders came out of the trees, a very familiar voice calling out, "U.S. Marshals. Surrender!"

Yukiho. Yukiho had gotten her message. A flash of fawn colored hair caught Honoka's eye. Kotori? No, her mother, retired Deputy Director of The Marshals, who'd recruited and trained Honoka, Yukiho, and Umi. A gunshot kicking the dirt next to her horse focused Honoka back in the present. Where had Erena and Anju gotten to? Tsubasa wasn't getting to her feet. Still too close to the wagon to be unscathed. Honoka spotted orange hair running to where Tsubasa had likely landed. Anju. Honoka laid along her horse's back, minimizing her profile. Erena had probably found cover in the chaos, ducking back into the trees, probably on foot, the better to scramble out on a branch and use her sniper skills.  Bullets were whining by everywhere. Honoka spotted Yukiho to her left with Director Minami by her side. They were returning fire, while pushing the scattered bandits toward the central wreckage of the wagon. Honoka rode to Yukiho's other side.

"Glad to see you."

"Hey, sis. You sure do know how to send a signal."

"There's a sniper somewhere. She'll probably be after me."

"Get cover. Now." Director Minami ordered.

"You're a big target, sis."

A bullet tore through Honoka's hat.

"Darn it."

Yukiho leaned over and pushed Honoka in the direction of the closest cover, "Just go."

Honoka chivvied her horse, hurrying to reach a less exposed location.

###

Eli hadn't seen Nozomi in a couple of hours. Time to tip up her hat, lean back, and lose a few hands to ease her absence from the table.

Pair of fives. Not a great hand. She let herself frown and pushed a dollar chip forward.

"I'll take three."

Dealer obliged. Eli stared at her full house, keeping the frown. Raises went around the table, gamblers eager to get some of their stash back. Eli was about to oblige them. 5 to her. "I'll see your 5 and raise you…" hesitate, bite lip, give off hurried air, "two."

"You're bluffing. I'm in."

Neither of her remaining rivals raised so when it came back to Eli she laid out her initial pair.

The pale man next to her snorted, "That the best you got? Flush." He laid 5 clubs on the table. "They might not be pretty but they get the job done, Miss Russian."

Eli knew he'd slipped the ace of clubs out of his worn sleeve. Once upon a time, she would have shot a hole in his hat and slit his cuffs. Now she sighed, an envious smile at his good fortune.

"Da, ya got me. Time for a dinner break." Eli pushed back from the table, making sure to swivel her hip so her pistol hit the table, to discourage anyone from joining her.

A boom. The train rocked. Nozomi. Where was Nozomi? Eli shoved through to the aisle and started running. She pulled up when she saw Umi, both hands raised to block her.

"Where's Nozomi?"

"I sent her to get the horses. We've got to stop the train."

"Why? The explosion was behind us."

"Honoka will be out there, alone. We have to hurry."

"UMI!" Kototi skittered around Eli, going straight for Umi, throwing her arms around the sheriff's waistcoat.

"Kotori, let me breathe."

Eli shook her head. "You stop the train. You have the badge. I'm going to help Nozomi."

Umi considered. "All right. Bring the horses to the locomotive. There's at least two bandits. Nozomi knows who they are."

Nozomi with two bandits. Eli didn't wait to listen to anything else Umi said.

###

Nozomi held the shotgun almost lazily. But anyone who could read people would have been warned by the narrowing of her eyes. The bandits misread the situation, choosing threats.

"I gave you your cigs. Let us through."

"You're not taking any horses."

"It's two to one. How are you going to stop us."

"Easy. I'm gonna let you go." Nozomi cocked the gun, raising it to her chest. "Just step off the train and I won't follow."

"You won't follow. Like we're supposed to be scared."

A smile. Cold. "That's the best offer you'll get on this train. I'd take it if I were you."

"NOZOMI!" could be heard from behind the door. Then before anyone could react, Eli broke through, reading the situation in an instant and tackling the bandit who had their gun on Nozomi. Knee on their chest, Eli had her pistol out and pointed at the bandit's face, "You're under arrest."

Nozomi had stepped closer to the other bandit, rifle cocked, pointed at their temple. "Drop your gun."

Metal hit the ground. Nozomi kicked it away. "I told you that was the easy way."

"Nozomi?"

"I'm fine, Eli."

"Thank God."

"Where's Umi?"

"Stopping the train." Eli looked Nozomi over and seeing no wounds, relaxed. "You'd better get the guards. We'll have to restrain these two and leave 'em."

"Just let me cuff this one so she can't cause you any trouble." With a strength that surprised her captive, Nozomi had her wrists chained around a post in under a minute. "I'll be right back." Nozomi winked, "Don't have too much fun without me."

"Nozomi."

Nozomi laughed, "Sorry." She kissed the top of Eli's head. "I won't be long, love."

Once Nozomi was gone, Eli growled and casually connected the bandit's head to the floor of the train as she adjusted her hold on their shirt collar. They swallowed back their complaint when they read the murder lurking in blue eyes.

"Stay still."

"Yes'm."

"Good."

###

The engine room was hot and crowded, impatience thick in the air.

"Stop the train." Umi demanded.

"I can't."

Unlike the train, Umi had no intention of stopping. "Are you the engineer? Is this train equipped with air brakes?"

"Yes."

Umi moved closer to the controls. "Which of these activates them?"

The grizzled engineer pushed back, "You don't know what you're doing. There are bandits out there."

"And I am here to help stop them. Pull the brake."

The engineer glanced to his partner, who started to reach for something to use as a weapon.

Umi pulled out her badge, "Sheriff Umi Sonoda, working with the Federal Marshals. There are two bandits on this train. My colleagues have probably transferred custody to your railroad police."

"Why didn't railroad security warn us?"

"We set a trap for the A-Rise gang. Only the actively involved law enforcement officers knew."

A chin scratch. An easing of the engineer's posture. Kotori stepped forward, "Please listen to Umi, sir. We're needed. And we need your help."

Umi had never witnessed anyone turn down Kotori. This engineer would not start a new trend. He reached for a lever, then hesitated. "Does it have to be a full stop?"

"We need our horses."

He nodded, then turned to his younger colleague, "Better get up there, Jimmy."

"Yup." And the brakeman headed for the roof of the car next in line.

"Thank you." Umi's sincerity eased the mood.

"Just nail those bastards to a tree. I lost good friends in a raid last year."

"We will do our best."

A shared glance, a nod, and the train shuddered to a stop.

###

Erena hadn't been able to resist a shot at Kousaka, that traitor. Marshals were everywhere, circling her team, herding them, disarming them, now about to set up a perimenter. She could see Anju's ginger hair, bent over Tsubasa, thrown several yards from the wreckage. Maybe Tsubasa was still alive…Honoka hadn't had the grit to do her job thoroughly. Erena spotted two marshals heading in her direction. She'd have to flee, gather whoever she could find, and get set up in a hideout for winter. A chance to rescue her friends might come but only if she escaped. Walking her horse quietly through the trees, she hurried to reach a spot out of the sight of the marshals so she could mount up.

###

Maki had switched to automatic mode, her muscles urging the horse faster, her mind racing through most likely injuries due to explosives. Unless someone had made rudimentary triage efforts, Maki was in a desperate race against blood loss. She could smell the acrid smoke and blood and gunpowder. Must be close. Ahead of her, a rider directed their horse across the trail Maki was on. She pulled up Midnight, angry.

"Get out of my way. I'm a doctor. People might be dying."

"No one is getting through. We have it under control."

"Are there injuries? I can help. Don't be stupid."

Maki heard horses behind her. Nico. And Rin. Rin would get her through. She urged Midnight into a turn.

"Rin. Tell them I'm a doctor."

Rin was out of breath and holding her badge in front of her, "Let her through. Is Honoka okay?"

"Hoshizora! Good to see you. We were afraid you might be…"

Rin glanced over her shoulder to Hanayo. "I'm fine. Let Maki through."

Maki pushed Midnight to a trot.

"I'm with her. Don't try to stop me." Nico's voice snapped from next to her.

This was better. Maki could make a difference now. And Nico, Rin, and Hanayo had her back.

###

Maki could read an accident or battle scene automatically. Bustles of activity, lines of fighters or rescuers, riderless horses moving in dangerously erratic patterns. Her eyes were drawn to oases of quiet, the almost hidden patches where silence and blood mingled, tears often in the mix. About fifteen feet from the still burning wagon, Maki saw a stillness and dismounting, she grabbed her waxed canvas roll from the saddle and headed for her first patient, not paying attention to warning shouts or passing bullets. Nico cursed, grabbed several blankets, and jumped down, grabbing Midnight's reins, tossing them at Rin and Hanayo.

"Tie the horses somewhere safe. I'm going after Maki."

Hanayo gulped, but nodded with more confidence than she felt. Horses were a problem she could manage.

"You got this Kayo-chin. I'm gonna find Honoka."

"Be careful, Rin."

Rin cheerfully saluted and searched for a fellow Marshal, Sugar calmly following Rin's lead. Hanayo dismounted, patting Cream, "We'll be fine, girl. Let's see where we can wait." Cream's lead rope in one hand and Midnight and Rose's in the other, Hanayo headed for the treeline.

###

Anju hissed as Maki shoved past her to kneel next to an unconscious Tsubasa.

"Get away from her."

"I'm a doctor. Be quiet."

A rough hand on Anju's shoulder pulled her away from Tsubasa and Maki. Nico had her gun and knife confiscated in less than a minute.

"Yazawa."

"Anju."

"Tsubasa's gonna…"

"Tsubasa's lucky to be alive. How come you're not in cuffs?"

Anju shrugged. Nico figured the marshals hadn't registered her as a threat. And with Tsubasa wounded, maybe she wasn't. Nico wouldn't be taking any chances. Not with Maki completely absorbed in examining the patient.

"Where's Erena? Is she in custody."

Anju didn't respond, watching Maki's face for any clue as to Tsubasa's condition.

Maki had her kit unrolled. "Is there any hot water?"

"Take these blankets." Nico shoved them past Anju. "I'll start a fire."

"Is she dying?" Anju whined.

Maki tucked a wool blanket around Tsubasa, using a second as a pillow, gently moving Tsubasa's head with the smallest motions. "You did well stopping the bleeding." Maki glanced to the wagon, the fire almost burnt out. "She's far enough from the blast zone that we might not be dealing with internal injuries. But these lacerations," Maki pointed at Tsubaba's forehead, "indicate she hit her head, as does her unconscious state."

"What does that mean?"

Nico was half listening as she gathered kindling and larger sticks, stacked them, and ignited her tinder.

"Probable concussion. No way to know how bad the damage is until she regains consciousness."

"Can't you do something?"

Ignoring her frantic audience, Maki had her stethoscope earpieces in, the bell on Tsubasa's chest.

"What's happening? Is she breathing?" Anju pressed, panic rising.

"Leave Maki alone. She's a good doctor. She'll save Tsubasa if she can. She saved Nico." Nico grabbed Anju, pulling her to her feet. "Help Nico find something to heat water in."

"I want to stay."

"We're going." Nico had left her rifle in its saddle holster but she had her pistol. Drawing it got Anju's attention and agreement.

###

Chaos. Honoka had lost her horse somewhere and knocked out, cuffed, or tied up so many members of the A-Rise gang she'd lost count. Her feet were sore, every time she went to rub her eyes the sight of her soot blackened hands stopped her. She needed water and a break. Where had Yukiho gone?

"Honoka!!!"

Umi? Honoka spun, suddenly lighter. Umi, hat flying off her head, was running toward her, Kotori right behind. They were here. They were safe. Umi's strong arms wrapped around her, Kotori's tears dropping onto both their shoulders.

"Honoka." Kotori sobbed.

Honoka felt strong enough to pick them both up but she knew that was just adrenaline surging at the touch of her lovers.

"You're all right." Kotori's hand was on Honoka's cheek, golden eyes searching for wounds.

Honoka grinned, shaking herself, "I need a bath but I'm fine, Kotori. How did you get here?"

"We heard the explosion. Captured the two bandits on the train, turned them over to the railroad police. Then stopped the train and got off." Umi held Honoka close for a long minute, then stepped back. Honoka grabbed her hand.

"You're not getting away."

"Can we help?"

"Kotori's mom's in charge."

"Mama!"

"Yeah. I didn't know if you'd make it so I took a chance and snuck out and telegramed Yukiho. She and Kotori's mom brought a bunch of marshals."

"I am very glad you were not facing A-Rise alone."

"Me too. Especially after I set off the explosion."

"You did what?"

"I couldn't let them get to the train. I knew you were on it."

"Honoka." Kotori's voice was soft.

"Honoka." Umi's was accusatory.

"I'm fine."

"You're lucky."

"Lucky to have the two of you." Honoka wrapped her arms around their shoulders. "Let's find Kotori's mom. I need some grub."

"And we can assist ongoing efforts."

"That's my Umi." Honoka laughed, "Did you two have any fun at all while I was gone, Kotori?"

Kotori started to tear up.

Honoka felt panic for the first time that day and rushed into an apology. "I'm sorry, Kotori. Don't cry. I'm fine. I'm coming home. Please don't cry."

Umi had almost chucked Honoka on the back of the head but restrained. "Then resist the urge to ask disturbing questions."

"C'mon, let's go."

"Lead the way." Umi's heart eased as her stride matched Honoka's. On a parallel course, Kotori between them, reunited, all safe, their love solid. They had built a home and family on this foundation.

###

Eli finished shaking a marshal's hand as she turned over three members of the bandits to the authorities. A special locomotive with two rail cars was coming from Denver with additional marshals and railroad police to pick up the captured gang members.

"You look tired, Elichi." Nozomi swung in, sliding her arms around Eli's waist.

"I am. Had to ride those three down."

"Where's your horse?"

Eli pointed vaguely north, "Left it with one of the marshals. Have you seen Umi?"

"She and Kotori found Honoka and went to talk to Kotori's mom. She's the retired Deputy Director Of The Marshals."

"I know."

Nozomi giggled, "Spent some time in her office?"

Eli shrugged. "Let's just say, I'm sure she'd be a bit too interested in anything I've been up to."

"But you're a blacksmith now. And a stalwart of the community. Umi relies on you."

There was something in Eli's eyes, something hidden, something haunted. There had been too much crossover with her old life these past few days. Eli loosened the bandana around her neck. "Is there any food around for a hungry rider?"

"Actually, Hanayo's got a nice little set up."

Eli smiled at that, "She's probably got rice cooking in at least two pots."

"Good guess."

Eli shifted her gun belt, "It'll be a nice touch of home."

###

Nico had left Anju with Umi and taken on the job of gathering the horses that were milling around riderless. She found a small clearing and put one of the younger marshals in charge. As she gathered more mounts, Maki's near constant movement was a distraction, the doctor stomping through camp, triaging the wounded, dealing with the most dire cases first. Nico finally had to focus on her own task and leave Maki to hers. Several A-Rise members had been close to the explosion; Maki setting a few fractures, cleaning and stitching wounds, stabilizing patients for transport and administering painkillers. Tsubasa remained unconscious so she was carefully moved to the area where the wounded were being prepared to be transferred onto the train.

"Nico!!!" Rin's voice rang out, distracting Nico from the feedbags she was putting over horses' noses.

"Something happen?" Nico asked.

"You got to come eat. Kayo-chin's made curry. She sent me to get you and Maki."

"Have you seen Maki?"

Rin shook her head. "Nope. Haven't been everywhere yet."

"Nico will look. Take over here."

"Sure." Rin grabbed the feedbag, petting the horse's blaze, "Hey, buddy."

Nico went back into the main area, now much more organized. She didn't immediately see a redhead. She did hear Honoka.

"Umi, you've got to convince her. There'll be a doctor on the train. She looks so exhausted."

Nico pivoted, heading for Honoka's voice.

"NICO!!! You're alive!" Honoka rushed Nico, lifting her off the ground. "I'm so glad to see you."

"Nico's glad too. Now what were you saying about Maki?"

"She's sleepwalking, can't keep her eyes open."

"Where is she?"

Honoka pointed to the left, "She was heading for the wagon last I spotted her."

Nico touched Umi's forearn, "I'll get her to take a break."

Umi nodded, "I think you could. Honoka and I need to go over some details with Director Minami. Will you be going on to Denver?"

Nico hesitated. She'd planned to go, to testify, then head further south to see her family. But the memory of the last time she'd seen Maki kept revisiting, the doctor bent with exhaustion, her steps a forced, weary shuffle, not a confident stride.

"Do you need Nico to testify in court?"

Honoka and Umi shared a glance, "We can take a sworn statement from you, say it's to keep you safe and anonymous."

"Erena's still out there." Nico muttered.

"She'll be more focused on Tsubasa." Honoka drew a line with her heel, "And me."

"Erena saw me. And Tsubasa knows where my family lives."

"Don't worry about it, Nico. The marshals will take care of your family. And the gang is probably done for the winter, if not longer. Maki's not sure how much brain damage Tsubasa might have suffered. She was awfully close to the explosion."

"You saved lives Honoka." Umi said softly.

"I know but…"

Nico decided not to third wheel. She had an emotional crisis of her own to resolve. "I'll find Maki; you find Kotori."

"Thanks, Nico. You're good people. We won't forget that."

Honoka held out her hand. Nico shook it, surprised at the relief Honoka's simple words allowed her.

###

Maki had to sit. No one thinking sensibly would pick the still warm, burnt out husk of an exploded wagon but Maki was cold, the wagon still had enough sturdiness that she could lean back against it, and at the angle she chose, it protected her from the sight of most of the camp.

She closed her eyes, leaning forward into her knees, her head resting on her arms. The noises had quietened. No shots, no shouts, just distant movement, conversation, things and people being dragged, horses snorting their opinions and requests at any passerbys. She could hear friends, sometimes a voice almost familiar spoke her name, but Maki just drew further into her shell. She had no intention of replying. She did not wish to be found. She'd done good work, saved lives, saved limbs, but after, there came the heaviness, the words trapped in her chest, the energy it took to even listen to a question. She had none for responses.

Boots in front of her. Maki glanced up. It was too dark to see the expression on Nico's face.

"Brought you some food." Nico crouched to hand Maki a tin cup full of what smelled like curry. "Not as good as Nico's but it'll warm you up."

Maki inhaled. Warm. Spices smelled good. Curry over rice; Hanayo had obviously taken over the campfire for the dinner shift.

"Nico's been rounding up the horses, feeding them."

Maki snorted. Maybe Nico should have brought her dinner in a feedbag.

"C'mon, eat." Nico tapped Maki's cup, "Nico's been watching you. You haven't had a break."

Maki forced a spoonful of curry into her mouth, the spicy warmth stimulating saliva and hunger. The cup was gone in less than ten bites.

"Here's a hunk of biscuit."

Maki wiped up the last of the curry.

Nico nodded, and sat herself next to Maki. "So is this a good spot for stargazing?"

Maki chewed. Nico was leaving. She was here to say goodbye. Maki had been listening for the train ever since Honoka had announced its existence late in the afternoon. Surely tired was what was prickling the corner of her eyes with tears, not this last small moment with Nico.

"Nico has some cookies left when we get back to our horses."

"I don't want cookies."

"Of course you want Nico's cookies. You love them, your daughters love them, Nico…"

"Stop." Maki could hear the train now. "You'd better get going. The train's nearly here."

Nico's eyes had adjusted to the low light. She could read the unhappiness in Maki's expression and turned the Doctor toward her, one hand sweeping up Maki's cheek.

"Don't cry."

"Too tired for this. Leave me alone." Maki growled.

"Lean on Nico."

"You're leaving." An accusation?

No response. Nico seemed to be blinking, biting her lip, thinking. Thinking was a rare look for Nico, Maki realized. Moments of honesty and scheming flashed across Nico's face with a rapidity that made any singular mood difficult to catch. Maki could feel Nico's fingers though, a gentle warmth against her cheek.

"Nico can't leave you."

"I am very capable…"

A brusque, bold press against her lips derailed Maki's argument, stealing her breath.

"Nico?"

Another kiss.

"Wait. Please?"

Nico didn't pull back. Maki could still feel her breath against her lips but that was the only pressure. Nico was kneeling, one hand tangled in Maki's hair, the other sliding behind her neck.

"What about your family?" Maki's heart was racing so fast, Nico was so near, practically sitting in her lap.

"Mama will understand." Nico sounded so calm.

"Huh?" How could there be anything calm about this moment?

"Mama" kiss "will" kiss "understand" kiss "Nico can't leave the smart, pretty, kind doctor and her smart, cute, kind daughters." Kiss. Kiss. Kiss.

Maki's eyelids were fluttering, her exhales were three times as fast as she could take in air, Nico's weight everywhere, the sounds and their surroundings starting to swirl…her fingers gripped Nico's back, pulling her in, holding her tightly, Maki's face hidden in Nico's shoulder while she willed her breaths to slow, her face fever hot.

"Maki?"

Nico sat back. There was space. A break of contact. Maki opened her eyes. Cool. Stars. Nico's smile.

"You're staying? Really?" More prickles as tears dropped to cool the fever of her cheeks.

"Nico is right here." Kiss. Again.

Maki sagged, everything that had happened that day a weight of weary that she had expected to carry alone.

Nico deftly altered their position, adjusting so Maki could lean against her shoulder, Nico's arm keeping her close. There was a whisper, both a promise and a demand.

"Nico is taking care of you now, Maki. Get used to it."

So bold. so silly. So presumptuous. So strong. So warm. Maki had no idea how any of this had happened. Or how Nico had managed to wrap a blanket around them.

The locomotive announced its arrival with a whistle. Maki tensed.

"Right by your side. Not going anywhere without you." Nico pulled her closer, Maki relaxing enough to yawn. "Time to rest, Maki."

Questions and conversations would wait. And that first star Maki just noticed could keep tonight's wish. If you could photograph a feeling, Maki would make a print of this moment, right now, to remember this dizzying, intoxicating sensation as the world tilted Nico-ward and Nico caught her.