The Last Love Of Arthur Morgan

Of Bison and Men

Well as he promised, Arthur took Lorna out hunting the next day. They packed provisions for the trip, given they could be gone for a few days. They mounted their horses and bid a farewell to everyone in camp.

The morning was crisp and cool, much to be expected so close to the mountains. Lorna was wearing two shirts plus her wool coat. She hadn't had a hat yet, but maybe she'd acquire one soon. Sadie said it was important to have one.

They stopped once they got into the Heartlands, making camp near a few large boulders. They cooked up some eggs they'd gotten from camp and some leftover venison. It was welcoming after skipping out on breakfast, in order to get an early start.

"Have you hunted Bison before?"

"No. Charles is gonna meet up with us." He informed, which was news to her.

"Oh? How come you didn't say anything?"

He shrugged."Didn't think it was a big deal."

"It isn't, I was just wondering."

"He told me last minute anyway, said we needed all the help we could get." He snickered.

Lorna smiled as she chopped the egg yolk up. Arthur sat against the boulder, Indian style, balancing a Tabacco can on his knee as he rolled a cigarette. Lorna stood up and walked up to Bess, ransacking her saddlebag and found the camera that Arthur lent her. She first snapped a picture of Arthur than the scenery; the snow covered mountains, the green grass, the never ending blue sky.

She couldnt resist snapping a picture of Bess and Walker as they nuzzled. She snickered to herself as the horses stood there, unaware they'd just gotten their picture taken.

"Breakfast is ready." Arthur announced.

Lorna walked over and handed him the camera, she sat down and grabbed a hearty helping of eggs and venison.

"I've been so hungry lately, it's strange." She said taking in a mouthful of egg.

"What's so strange 'bout it?" He asked curiously.

"Well, I've been getting queasy the last couple of days, it started just before we left the mountains."

"Maybe your gettin' sick?" He suggested, shovelling some meat into his mouth."Happens to the best of us."

"I dont feel sick like that."

Arthur shrugged."Wouldnt worry 'bout it then. It'll probably pass."

Lorna nodded and she took a sip from the canteen. The eggs tasted especially good, the meat was a little plain, but she wasn't complaining.

Arthur reached over and poured a cup of coffee, he held up an extra cup and she nodded.

"Now all that's missing is bacon." She pointed out.

He breathed a laugh."Cant remember the last time I ate bacon, probably years ago by now."

"Wow." She giggled, sipping her coffee.

"Well we all know how Pearson cooks, ain't gonna have him ruinin' the damn meat."

"That's true."

"Goodmorning." A voice behind them greeted.

They both turned and saw Charles leading Taima over to Bess and Walker. She snorted happily as she reunited with her friends.

"Want some eggs and venison? Got plenty." Arthur asked.

Charles shook his head."I've already eaten, thank you. I saw some Bison not too far from here, we'll travel on horseback then on foot."

They both nodded in agreement. Charles sat down and helped himself to a cup of coffee and the three sat in a comfortable silence.