Loyalty Divided

Chapter Twenty Six

As the sun began its descent towards the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, Dutch gathered Evangeline, John, Arthur, and Hosea near the outskirts of their makeshift camp. The late afternoon cast long shadows across the rugged landscape, accentuating the seriousness of their preparations.

"We move at dusk," Dutch's voice rang out firmly, his words punctuated by the rustling of leaves in the evening breeze. His authoritative tone underscored the gravity of their impending mission. He glanced around at each of them in turn, his gaze steady and unwavering. "Evangeline, stick close with me and Hosea," he instructed, emphasizing the need for careful coordination. "John, keep watch on our backs. Arthur," Dutch turned to his trusted lieutenant with a nod of acknowledgement, "you're on point with Evangeline."

Arthur's jaw was clenched in silent determination, his eyes narrowed in focused readiness. He adjusted his hat with a brisk movement, a gesture of both preparation and resolve. John nodded solemnly, his expression conveying a mix of determination and vigilance as he checked the ammunition in his belt.

Hosea added his seasoned wisdom to the discussion. "Remember, patience is our ally," he advised in his measured voice, his eyes twinkling with a blend of experience and reassurance. "Let's not rush into anything."

Evangeline took a deep breath, feeling a surge of adrenaline and purpose course through her veins. She adjusted her gun belt and checked the cartridges, ensuring everything was in place for the task ahead. The weight of their shared mission settled upon her shoulders.

As they mounted their horses, the afternoon sun dipped lower, casting a golden glow over the rugged terrain. The air was cool and crisp, carrying with it the promise of approaching dusk. Each member of the group was keenly aware of the dangers ahead, yet resolute in their commitment to see the mission through.

With Dutch at the forefront, they rode in a disciplined formation towards the outskirts of town where the mayor's mansion stood, a silhouette against the backdrop of the fading sunlight. The rugged landscape cast long shadows, creating an aura of suspense as they approached their destination.

Evangeline kept close to Dutch and Hosea, their horses moving with purposeful strides. The rhythmic sound of hooves echoed faintly in the quiet evening air, a stark contrast to the tension that gripped them. Arthur and John followed closely behind, their expressions set in determined resolve, their eyes scanning the surroundings for any signs of trouble.

The town began to come into view, its buildings bathed in the warm glow of dusk. Dutch's posture remained stoic, his eyes focused ahead on their objective. Evangeline felt a mixture of nerves and anticipation swirling within her, her hands steady on the reins as they navigated through the outskirts.

As they drew nearer to the mansion, the sky turned a deeper shade of blue, tinged with the first hints of stars beginning to emerge. The scent of approaching night filled the air, heightening their senses and reinforcing the gravity of their mission.

Dutch raised the single for them to stop, the mansion had came into view. Arthur glanced sideways at Evangeline, his expression softening despite the tension of their surroundings. "You sure about this, Evangeline?" he asked in a low voice, concern evident in the furrow of his brow.

Evangeline met his gaze with unwavering resolve. "I'm sure. Colm laid it out plain as day. This is our best shot," she replied firmly, her tone reflecting her determination.

Arthur nodded, a brief smile touching his lips. Leaning closer, he gently took her hand and pressed a kiss to her knuckles, a silent gesture of support and affection amidst the tension.

Meanwhile, Dutch's commanding voice broke through their moment. "Alright, let's make this quick and clean," he stated tersely, his eyes scanning the group. "Cover your faces and remember, no unnecessary risks."