The Band of Rotten: A Sanders Sides Story

The Lone Cowboy

Hey, I'm still here, don't worry. Sorry for the wait, because I am currently in Italy and I am obligated to spend time with my family. Anyways, excuse the shortness of this chapter (again) because reasons. But, just know that the next chapter is going to be way longer.

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United States, 1860

The breeze in the desert did not bring the expected cool air that caress his sweaty skin. Instead, it brought with it loose soil that clouded his eyes and even hotter air. It only made him more restless and long for a cool shade. The mare below him, too, was getting impatient. Orchard no longer walked with vigor, but with exhaustion clear in her posture. Next to him, Roman walked with his feet dragging on the sand, groaning every now and then.

"What is this place you seek, dear rider?"

"Ay, pal, ya talk like some kind of royalty," Patton commented, forgetting to answer Roman's question. "It's funny."

"I don't quite understand what you meant, but I take that as a compliment. I have after all, dreamed of being a prince."

"Oh, and answering yer question, we goinna the coast now."

Patton lowered his hat lower on his face, shielding his eyes from the sun. It was light-brown in color, almost like wet sand with a darker hatband. His brother had given it to him long ago. And since the day he left, the hat never left his sight. Speaking of, what does a lone cowboy doing, travelling to the east? Patton didn't quite know either. There were too many things to think about when it comes to reasoning, all tied up to his past. He would rather not think of it at all, lest the memories come biting back.

The two continued their silent walk across the desert which didn't seem to have an end. It had been a few days, and still the desert goes on. The arid weather and its heat burned whatever it touched—at least it felt that way. Patton had wanted to bolt ahead with Orchard, eager to find someplace to rest. But, a small groan reminded him of Roman's presence. He could never leave a friend behind.

"How long does this journey take, Patton?" Roman groaned as he dragged his feet. "I think my feet are going to break."

"Aye, fella, ye don't have to be dramatic," Patton said loudly with a good-natured laugh. "Here go, get on the horse."

Patton hopped off of Orchard's back, patting the saddle firmly for Roman to get on. Seeing that Roman was about to argue against his suggestion, Patton laughed again, taking Roman's arm and pushed him lightly towards the mare. After Roman reluctantly got on the horse, a relieved smile painted Patton's face. He took Orchard's reign and towed her along as he walked.

"How 'bout this, pal," he said with a warm expression, "ye ride for two three hours, then I get on. Another two three hours and ye get on. Sounds good?"

"Of course! Your idea is truly genius!"

"Ye see? Dramatic!"

They continued their way to the east, not stopping until the sun dipped into the horizon. There were sparks of yellows and oranges in the distance; a small town, seemingly in the middle of nowhere. And slowly, the lights became brighter and brighter as they came closer.

"Ey, pal, why doncha hop on the horse, yea?" Patton asked as he gestured towards the small space of the saddle behind him. We can get to the town faster."

It took some effort for Roman to get on, especially with the darkening sky, but they managed. With that, the two galloped down to the town, seeking some comfort in the midst of the Wild West dessert. They can see silhouettes of people, walking around leisurely or sitting on wooden landings in front of their houses. And again, as they went nearer, the silhouettes turned into colors. The town was less crowded than they had anticipated. With the little money that Patton had, they decided to go into a saloon to have a little drink.