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Charles agreed, and the two men set off to track more game. Caleb's decision to hunt alone wasn't just about improving his skills, he also wanted to spend more time with Charles, building their relationship and learning more about him much deeper than what he knew from the game. As they moved through the woods, they talked about various topics, from hunting techniques to life in the gang.
Caleb asked Charles about his background, curious to learn more about the quiet, skilled man who had become such an integral part of the gang in his mind, even though he was sure not many had realized it yet.
Charles shared bits and pieces of his story, explaining how he had grown up in a world that often didn't accept people like him, who were born from a black man and an Indian woman. His calm demeanor and deep sense of justice had drawn him to the Van der Linde gang, where he found a sense of belonging.
In turn, Caleb shared some of his own experiences, carefully weaving in fabricated details about his past to align with the story he had told Dutch and the others.
He spoke of his parents' teachings and how they had shaped his values, which resonated with Charles. The two men found common ground in their shared respect for loyalty and fairness, increasing their bond even further.
As they continued their hunt, Caleb's bow skills continued to improve. He managed to take down two more rabbits and a deer, each shot more precise than the last. Charles offered occasional advice, but for the most part, he let Caleb figure things out on his own, trusting Caleb's growing confidence and ability.
By the time they had finished, Caleb had successfully hunted two rabbits and two deer. The two men worked together to skin and prepare the animals, ensuring that the meat would be usable for the camp. Charles showed Caleb how to properly field dress the deer, explaining the importance of preserving the meat and avoiding waste.
As they loaded the meat onto their horses, Charles turned to Caleb with a rare smile. "You did well today, Caleb. You're a quick learner, and you've got a good eye. With more practice, you'll be one of the best in using a bow in the gang."
Caleb smiled, feeling a sense of pride. "Thanks, Charles. I couldn't have done it without your help. I'm grateful for the lessons and for the company."
Charles nodded, his expression warm. "Anytime, Caleb. We're brothers now. If you ever need help or just want to talk, you know where to find me."
The two men stowed the two deer carcasses on the back of their horse, and the several rabbit carcasses were stowed as well on the side of their saddle. Then they mounted their horses and began the ride back to camp.
As they traveled, Caleb reflected on the day's events. He had not only improved his bow skills but also strengthened his bond with Charles.
When they arrived back at Horseshoe Overlook, the camp was alive with activity. Pearson, as the camp's cook, was thrilled to see the large quantity of fresh meat and immediately began preparing it for storage. Dutch and Hosea watched from a distance, their expressions approving as they saw Caleb and Charles working together.
Dutch approached them, his tone warm and appreciative. "Good work, boys. This will keep us fed for a while. Caleb, my son, you're proving to be a valuable addition to the gang. Don't forget to take a rest after such a busy day of work."
Caleb tipped his hat, his expression humble. "Thank you, Dutch. I'm just doing my part. I will take a rest after this." As the sun began to set, Caleb took a moment to rest by the campfire.
As Caleb was taking a rest by the campfire, looking deeply at the fire burning the wood and listening to the crackling noise, a plate filled with a slice of venison cooked with spices and a side of vegetables suddenly appeared before his eyes. Surprised, Caleb looked up and saw Pearson standing there, holding the plate with a grin.
"Here, Mr. Thorne," Pearson said with a hearty laugh. "A special gift from me to you for the hard work you've done today. But don't tell anyone else, haha!"
Caleb smiled, taking the plate, fork, and knife from Pearson. "Thank you, Mr. Pearson. You don't have to do this, though. I just did what anyone else would've done."
Pearson chuckled, shaking his head. "Why, Mr. Thorne, you don't know the boys around here. Except for Mr. Smith and Mr. Marston, who's still recovering from his injuries, it'd be a less common occasion for them to do what you've done for the camp. Don't worry, this is just a one time gift for the great work you've done, even though you've just joined this family."
Caleb nodded, thanking Pearson once again before digging into the meal. The venison was tender and flavorful, the spices blending perfectly with the natural richness of the meat.
The vegetables, though simple, complemented the dish well. As he ate, he listened to the sounds of the camp, the chatter of the gang members, the crackling of the fire, and the occasional whinny of the horses.
As he enjoyed his meal, Jack approached and sat on the log beside Caleb, watching him eat with wide, curious eyes. "Hello, Uncle Caleb," Jack said. "Why aren't you eating the stew like the rest of us?"
Caleb looked up and smiled. "Hello, Jack. I'm planning to eat the stew actually, but Mr. Pearson made this for me as a gift. Keep it a secret, okay?"
Jack nodded solemnly. "Okay, Uncle Caleb. I'll keep it a secret."
As Caleb continued eating, he noticed Jack's eyes lingering on the remaining quarter of the venison. The boy's desire to try it was written all over his face. Caleb chuckled softly. "Do you want to try it, Jack? It's pretty good and still warm."
Jack's face lit up. "Can I, Uncle Caleb?"
"Of course," Caleb said, laughing. "Come sit beside me. I'll cut the meat for you."
Jack hurriedly moved closer, taking the fork Caleb offered him. He began eating the venison, his eyes widening with delight. "It's delicious!" he exclaimed between bites.
Caleb smiled, watching the boy enjoy the food. "You're not embarrassed to talk to me anymore, Jack? When we first met, you hid behind your father and mother."
Jack swallowed the meat and looked up at Caleb. "Uncle Arthur and Uncle Sean said I don't have to be shy around you anymore. They said we're family now, and you're going to stay with us!"
Caleb's heart warmed at Jack's words. He gently stroked the boy's head. "That's right, Jack. We're family now."
As the two of them talked, Abigail's voice called out from nearby. "Jack, are you bothering Uncle Caleb?"
Both Caleb and Jack looked up to see Abigail approaching, her hands on her hips. Jack quickly replied, "No, Momma! Uncle Caleb was giving me a taste of his cooked venison. It was really good!"
Caleb laughed. "Jack, didn't we say it was a secret?"
Jack's face fell slightly. "I remember, Uncle Caleb. I just wanted to tell Momma because it was so delicious. I'm sorry."
Caleb ruffled Jack's hair. "It's okay, Jack. No need to apologize."
Abigail smiled, her expression softening as she looked at Caleb. "Mr. Thorne, you've got quite a way with him. He doesn't warm up to just anyone."
Caleb shrugged modestly. "He's a good kid, Mrs. Roberts. Smart, curious, and full of life. It's easy to get along with him. He will grow into a fine man one day."
Abigail's smile deepened, though there was a hint of sadness in her eyes. "He's been through a lot, even if he doesn't show it. This life… it's not easy for us, let alone for four year old. But he's strong, just like his father." She paused, her voice softening. "Thank you for taking the time with him. It means more than you know."
Caleb nodded, his gaze returning to Jack, who was now happily finishing the last of the venison. "He's welcome to join me anytime. In fact, I was thinking of taking him along on my next hunt and showing him around. What do you think, Jack? Want to learn how to hunt some animals and bring some meat for everyone?"
Jack's eyes lit up with excitement. "Really, Uncle Caleb? You'd take me with you?"
"Of course," Caleb said, smiling. "But only if your mother says it's alright."
Abigail hesitated, her protective instincts warring with her desire to see Jack happy. She glanced at Caleb, her expression thoughtful. "Well… as long as you promise to keep him safe, Mr. Thorne. And no going too far from camp, understand?"
"You have my word," Caleb said earnestly. "I'll make sure he's safe and sound."
Jack beamed, practically bouncing with excitement. "Thank you, Momma! Thank you, Uncle Caleb!"
Caleb laughed as he watched Jack's excitement, his small face lighting up at the prospect of joining him on a hunt. Abigail, standing nearby, couldn't help but smile at her son's enthusiasm, though her protective instincts were still evident in her cautious tone.
"Promise me, Jack," she said, kneeling slightly to meet his eyes, "that you'll listen to Uncle Caleb when he takes you out, okay? And stay close to him. Don't wander off alone, it's dangerous out there."
Jack nodded vigorously, his expression serious as he made his promise. "I promise, Momma! I'll stay close to Uncle Caleb and do everything he says!"
Abigail ruffled his hair affectionately before standing up and glancing at Caleb. "You'll take good care of him, won't you, Mr. Thorne?"
"Of course," Caleb replied with a reassuring smile. "I'll make sure he's safe and sound. He's in good hands."
Jack, still buzzing with excitement, turned to Caleb. "When will we go out, Uncle Caleb? Tomorrow? In the morning?"
Caleb chuckled, ruffling the boy's hair. "I don't know yet, Jack, but I'll let you know when I'm ready to head out again. You'll be the first to know, alright?"
Jack grinned, clearly satisfied with the answer. After finishing the last piece of venison, he thanked Caleb for the meal and followed Abigail to their tent to wash up and get ready for bed. Caleb watched them go, a soft smile on his face. There was something deeply satisfying about seeing Jack so happy, and he felt a sense of pride in being able to bring that joy to the boy.
Once they were out of sight, Caleb stood up and carried the empty plate, fork, and knife over to the washing bucket behind Pearson's wagon. As he set the dishes down, his eyes fell on Kieran Duffy, who was still tied to the tree.
The O'Driscoll captive looked even worse than the day before, his face was pale, his eyes sunken, and his energy seemed completely drained. Caleb frowned, feeling a pang of pity despite his better judgment. He approached Kieran slowly, stopping a few steps away.
"Will you talk now, Mr. Duffy?" Caleb asked, his tone calm but firm. "Why are you torturing yourself for the O'Driscolls when you claim you're not one of them?"
Kieran lifted his head weakly, his eyes barely focusing on Caleb. "I ain't bein' loyal, Mister," he croaked. "I truly don't have anythin' to say. And you people… you're no better than the O'Driscolls. Killers, thieves, torturers… all the same."
Caleb's expression hardened, and he stepped closer, his hand resting on the handle of his Schofield revolver. Without warning, he struck Kieran's head with the butt of the gun, causing the man to cry out in pain. "Why'd you do that, Mister?!" Kieran shouted, his voice trembling. "It just proves my point, you're no different from them!"
Caleb leaned in, his voice low and steady. "We're not the same as the O'Driscolls. They kill, rape, and torture for fun. We're a family trying to survive and help those in need, while enriching ourselves at the same time. There's a large difference between us and the O'Driscolls."
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Name:Caleb Thorne
Age: 23
Body Attributes:
- Strength: 6/10
- Agility: 6/10
- Perception: 8/10
- Stamina: 6/10
- Charm: 5/10
- Luck: 5/10
Skills:
- Handgun (Lvl 1)
- Rifle (Lvl 1)
- Firearms Knowledge (Lvl 2)
- Past Life Memory (Lvl MAX)
- Knife (Lvl 1)
- Blunt Weapon (Lvl 1)
- Sneaking (Lvl 1)
- Horse Mastery (Lvl 1)
- Poker (Lvl 1)
- Hand to Hand Combat (Lvl 1)
- Eagle Eye (Lvl 1)
- Dead Eye (Lvl 1)
- Bow (Lvl 2)
Money: 155 dollars and 41 cents
Bank: 40 dollars, 2 gold bars, and a large bag of jewelry