Over the course of the next week, I returned to The Lone Star several times — at first just to numb the pain with whiskey and beer, then to spend more time getting to know Floyd and the rest of the citizens of our little town.

Sojourn
Heart 2 + Bond 1 + Action 2 = 5
Challenge 2 & 5 = Weak Hit
Take +2 Spirit & take +2 Health

In time, I felt my spirits lift, perhaps because I was able to get out of my own head, perhaps because all the little things that seemed so trivial in the face of death began to demand my attention once more.

I broke up a few fights, served some legal documents, and collected taxes. My job became more about the mundane and the everyday.

By the time I had to deal with Blackhawk again, it was to bring him before a judge. After the rattling he gave me, I was feeling renewed and ready to finally bring him to justice.

Reach a Milestone
Bring Blackhawk to justice – Formidable
Mark 1 progress = 9 out of 10

Fulfill Your Vow
Progress 9
Challenge 3 & 10 = Weak Hit
There is more to be done (Ask the Oracle) & take +2 experience

Ask the Oracle
Action 85 = Construct
Theme 90 = Quest
Character Goal 29 = Find a person

Judge Calburn dealt Blackhawk the maximum sentence that the law allowed. He would be transported to a secluded prison in the wastes of New Mexico, never to roam free or cause anyone harm ever again.

It felt good for once, this job. Things had been set right, for now.

Back at the Sheriff’s Office, Hayes congratulated me with a hearty clap on the back and a handshake.

“It’s nice to see you back on your feet again, Marshal,” he said, and I noted that he addressed me by my title this time.

“And it’s a good thing, because we have another job for you.”

Reach a Milestone
Protect the town of Sagebrush, Texas – Epic
Mark 1 tick = 0.25 out of 10

Advance
Spend 2 experience to upgrade Marshal asset