The rancher shutters the open window, checks the front and back doors, then banks the lamp until the room settles into a low amber glow.
He lays blankets near the hearth and sets a tin cup and water pitcher within reach. Outside, the wind moves softly through the cottonwoods.
Amos Bell
Best we make do till morning. You rest that side, and I'll keep watch when I can.
As he gathers the last blanket, the edge of an old rusty sword shows among Ellie's belongings. The rancher pauses, studying its worn hilt without touching it.
Amos Bell
That blade seen better days. Old family steel, or something you carried out of a harder place?
A horse shifts near the barn, followed by the dull creak of a board settling. The sound fades, leaving only the lamp wick and the rancher's quiet breathing.
Amos Bell
You needn't answer tonight if you don't want. But I reckon a sword like that has a history.
✓ Quest Accepted
Secure the rancher's trust as shelter
“Does the rancher recognize this sword?”
NO (Even, rolled 81)
The rancher's eyes linger on the rusty hilt, but recognition never settles there. He studies it as a stranger might study any old weapon.
Amos Bell
No, ma'am. Can't say I know that sword. Seen plenty like it, though. Most had less rust and more use.
He leaves the blade where it lies, making no move to claim it. His attention returns to the shuttered window and the dark beyond it.
Amos Bell
If it belongs to somebody looking for you, I reckon they'll recognize it better than I do.
A faint hoofbeat sounds beyond the barn, too distant to place. The rancher reaches for the shotgun, then waits, listening until the house grows quiet again.
Amos Bell
For now, it's your property. I won't touch it. Get some sleep if you can.
“I ask the rancher their name.”
SUCCESS (Great Willpower, rolled -2)
Ellie
What is your name?
The question comes softly into the lamplit room. As Ellie shifts toward him, the bandage pulls tight across her side, sending a sharp ache through the wound.
Amos Bell
Amos Bell. Been ranching this spread twelve years.
Amos studies her face, then the old sword near the blankets. His hand remains close to the shotgun, though he does not lift it.
Amos Bell
And you, ma'am? You don't owe me your whole history, but I prefer knowing who I'm sheltering.
Outside, a loose shutter taps once against the wall. Amos glances toward it, suspicion sharpening beneath his tired patience, then looks back to Ellie.
Quest Complete
Secure the rancher's trust as shelter