Second Star to the Right, Chapter 10 and 11

Second Star to the Right

by Mctrip7

Rating: PG-13
Genre: Suspense, Angst, Romance
For: Connor, as requested
Archive: Trip
Disclaimer: The characters belong to Paramount, but the story is mine
Summary: This story takes place during the episode “NORTH STAR”

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Chapter 10

Archer continued his query of the doctor.

“Do these moaning sounds he makes indicate that he is in pain?”

“Not necessarily. A coma suggests a deep sleep. He may be dreaming of something very pleasant.”

Archer raised an eyebrow.

The doctor continued. “I do think more activity indicates the comatose state may be receding. I hope his friends will continue their visits, speaking to him as though in conversation. His arm is healing nicely. The cuts and bruises have almost disappeared.”

Jon nodded, saying “I’ll see to it.”

Trip’s mind continued to give him surreal images . . . .

Sam, Larry, Curly and Dave arrived back at the ranch house with Little Eagle. Hearing the approaching riders, John came barreling through the front door.

“Where’s Clay? He shouted. Seeing Red Eagle in Sam’s arms, he came straight to him.

“What’s going on, Sam? Did you find Clay? Maria said Chiric came back, rider less.”

“He’s OK, John. It’s a long story. I’ll tell you all about it after I call Doc Jensen. He needs to see Red Eagle’s foot right away.”

John Thornton was not an excitable man, but he appeared distraught with worry. Sam could never remember having seen him this upset.

“Sam, this has something to do with the Comanche, doesn’t it? Have you seen Golden Eagle? You really should take the boy to him immediately!

“He knows all about it, John. He’s the one who asked that Dr. Jensen take a look at the boy’s foot. Sam went to John’s office and began typing a message on the wireless. He asked the Stationmaster in Childress to contact the Doctor and ask him to come to the ranch as soon as he could. John’s wireless setup was the Stationmaster’s backup.

Maria had come into the room from the kitchen. When she saw Red Eagle’s bloody foot, she immediately went back to the kitchen to get a pan of warm water.

“Set him on the chair, Sam, and let me clean that foot up,” Maria said as she began arranging the furniture. “It needs to be clean when Doctor Jensen gets here; so he can see how deep it is. Looks like he got it caught in a bear trap.”

“That’s kind of what happened, John.” Sam began telling the older man what he knew of what happened. “Seems Clay took a detour into the rocks on his way up to the high pasture. He came up on one of those big bobcats and found Red Eagle with his foot caught in a trap. Clay rescued him and they hid in a cave until Golden Eagle found them.
Golden Eagle had a hunting party out looking for the boy. He was very impressed with what Clay had done and insisted he return to his camp with him. All of us went with him.”

“They had a ceremony, making Clay his blood brother. Most white men never get to see something like that. Kind of made your hair stand up! He made it clear that Clay must remain with him for several days. Golden Eagle said he would be well cared for and then he asked me if our doctor could save the boy’s leg. Their Shamus said there was nothing more he could do. I hope Doc Jensen can help him.”

John first looked relieved, then worried again. “I just hope Clay’s life isn’t dependent on our being able to save the boy’s leg. That’s a pretty nasty looking wound.”

“They are in awe of the big stallion. Seeing his attachment to Clay was not lost on them. Clay also had Red Eagle on the horse with him. Sam tried to sound optimistic, but he was worried, too.

“Nothin’ we can do ‘till we hear from Doc Jensen; so let’s get to work.” John’s voice boomed. Larry and Curley wasted no time heading for the bunkhouse.

Sam turned to Maria, “Will you stay with him until the Doc gets here?”

“I won’t leave him for a minute. Don’t you worry. Go do what you have to. The Doctor won’t be here for a couple of hours, just long enough for him to have a good nap.” She turned to the boy and said “Unless you’d like something to eat first?”

Though most of the words were lost on him, he did understand “eat” and gave her a weak smile, putting his hand to his mouth.

“Good. Never knew a young man that wasn’t hungry when food was mentioned. We’ll do just fine.” She picked him up and carried him to the kitchen and sat him in the old rocking chair. She fixed a box to prop his foot on. He winced when she lifted his leg, but when she put a pillow under his heel, he smiled.

“We’ll do just fine. How about some biscuits with meat and gravy?”

John stood in the doorway watching as the boy’s eyes followed Maria, watching every move she made.

“He’s a fine little boy. I’m glad Clay tried to help him. I just wish I knew more about what Clay’s expected to do.”

“He’ll be OK, John. I’ve heard tell about these things. It involves a cut that bleeds and they share each other’s blood. First they have something strong to drink; so they don’t feel much pain. There’s a lot of ceremony. Like Sam said, it’s real scary; and then they make the cut. I don’t know how true it is, but I once heard that the Chief then gives him one of his wives to take care of him. Since Clay was grabbed by the arm by that bobcat, he probably couldn’t do anything for himself; so he would need someone to look after him. I’m sure he will be OK, maybe a little wiser, but OK!”

“I hope you’re right, Maria.”

Doc Jensen arrived about 10:00p.m. He had been delivering a baby at the Burton Ranch and couldn’t leave. It was Mary Sue and Jim’s first and there were a few complications. Giving birth in this wild country was no easy matter; however both Mother and son were going to be alright. The Doctor looked exhausted.

“Have you had anything to eat today, Henry?” were John’s first words when he had a look at the man.

“Don’t remember, John; but something sure smells good!”

“Maria’ll fix you a plate while you’re sizing up the boy’s foot. He’s asleep now; so you might be able to get a better look at it.”

The Doctor walked over to the ewer as he said “Can I wash my hands in here, Maria?
Don’t want to contaminate the wound if I can help it.”

“Of course, Henry. I have some hot water on the stove. Let me add some to it.”

”Thanks. How’d you say this happened, John? The message I got was somethin’ about a trap, bobcats, some Indians and Clay. By the way, where is he? Is he OK?”

“It’s a long story, Henry. I’ll fill you in, but right now a lot depends on what you can do for Red Eagle.”

“This is Red Eagle? He’s the son of the Chief, Golden Eagle! How’d he end up in your kitchen?”

Lifting the boy’s foot, he said “This looks pretty serious; however, I don’t see any gangrene. That’s a real good sign.”

“You know, John, the Indians make some kind of a paste out of a special kind of dirt and broth made from certain leaves. They smear it on the wound and it seems to protect them from infection. I wish I knew more about it.”

“The problem here . . .” and as he looked up, he saw two dark, frightened eyes staring at him. “It’s OK, son, I’ll be real careful and try not to hurt you.”

Maria came over immediately and sat by the boy, patting him on the arm. “It’s O.K., little Eagle. The Doctor has to see how he can fix your foot. I know he doesn’t understand what I’m saying, but I hope he can tell by my voice.” Maria said as she turned to John.

Red Eagle looked up at John and said “C l a a y.”

“He’s with your Father, son, - at your campsite.”

Then he said “Chi r k?”

The Doctor said “He’s talking about the stallion.”

“He’s there, too, Red Eagle,” John informed him. “They will be home soon, I hope.”

Maria produced a stick and showed the boy how to put it between his teeth and bite down on it when his foot hurt. She handed it to him saying “Clay would do this.”

Red Eagle smiled as he took the stick and put it between his teeth. When Dr. Jensen touched the opening, the boy bit down and closed his eyes. A big tear slipped out and ran down his cheek.

“The bone just above his ankle is fractured. I’ll have to set it. I’m going to give him something to put him to sleep; so he won’t feel a thing. I may have to put a few stitches in to close that opening. I just hope this won’t leave him with a joint that won’t flex. We’ll just have to wait and see.”

“Can you take a few minutes to eat something, while the shot is taking effect.” Maria asked.

“I’d rather wait till I’m all done, Maria. I need to sterilize my instruments. Do you have some more hot water?”

“The kettle’s full. What else will you need?”

“I may need for you to assist me, if you would?”

“Of course, Doctor. I have a little medical training; so just tell me what you want me to do.”

Several hours later Doctor Jensen was sitting in the big room, finishing his supper. John and Maria were there, too.

“It’s a wonder that trap didn’t severe his leg. It did enough damage, though. Maybe Clay rescued him before he moved around too much.”

The Doctor picked up his coffee cup. “That was real good, Maria.” “Thanks.”

“John, that’s some story about Clay. What was he doin’ up in those rocks, anyway? The boy would sure have been a ‘gonner’ if he hadn’t showed up. The Chief must have really been impressed, to make Clay his ‘blood brother’. That’s one of the highest honors an Indian, especially a Comanche, can show you! I may need to check him over when he returns. Some of their food may not agree with him.”

“Henry, I just hope Clay’s life doesn’t depend on the outcome of Red Eagle’s healing.”

“I don’t think you have anything to worry about there. The only thing I can see is that he may have a slight limp. If it doesn’t look right, I’ll take him to Wichita Falls to the hospital and they can put a metal piece in. Dr. Todd is the best there is out here when it comes to that kind of surgery; so don’t worry.”

After the second day, Clay still hadn’t returned. Dr. Jensen stayed with Red Eagle after setting his foot. He was beginning to be a little concerned with the boy’s progress. By the end of the week, he seemed to be recovering just fine, but his leg showed signs of withdrawing. He winced when the Doctor touched the bottom of his foot.

One morning after breakfast the Doctor informed John “I’m going to take the boy to Wichita Falls, John. I don’t want to risk him having a gimpy leg. If there is something Dr. Todd can do, it will have to be soon or it won’t work. Could one of your men make the trip with me? Someone needs to be with the boy all the time.”

“Of course, Henry. When do you want to leave?”

“This morning’s as good a time as any. Could we be ready in an hour?”

“Done.” John said. He couldn’t help wondering when he would see Clay again. Maybe he should call his brother and tell him all that had happened! No, not yet. Give it a little more time. He headed out to the bunkhouse to see who was available.

Chapter 11

“Now P L A T E” Clay said as he pointed to it. She said “Pate”. “No, there’s an “L” in it, P L L A T E.”

This time Rori said “P L A T E”.

“You are doing very good,” he said as he smiled at her. Next, he pointed to his chest as he said “Clothes”. No response. “S H I R T, P A N T S.”. She turned her head quizzically and leaned forward slightly. Clay repeated his words, pointing to what he needed.

A smile touched her lips as she moved closer to him. She extended her hand and gently massaged his chest.

“Oh, no! That’s not necessary.”

She giggled at his jumpy movements. “You want?” she said in perfect English.

“No, you’re hands are cold. I need my clothes. Do you know where they are? My clothes?” He had to smile, because he couldn’t seem to make her understand.

Teasing, he said “How many words do you know?”

She sensed his mood and motioned him to follow her to the bed of furs. She pulled them back and pointed.

“I don’t see my clothes there.” As he searched the folds, she pushed him down and fell on top of him.

“Hey, you’re goin’ to get me in trouble! Golden Eagle is now my brother. I sure don’t want to be caught messin’ with his woman.” He attempted to lift her off of him until he saw the hurt in her eyes.

“This isn’t a good idea, Rori. You”, he said pointing to her, “belong to Golden Eagle. He would not like this.”

She looked him in the eye as she said “Comanche share.” “Golden Eagle, share.”

Clay was stunned. “How long have I been here? Have you been with me the whole time?” He thought he had dreamed some of the things that flashed through his mind, but evidently they actually happened. He eased her down beside him and pulled the firs over them. Rori fit perfectly into the curve of his body. He kissed her gently on the cheek before she turned to him to receive his passionate kiss on her lips.

When Clay awoke, she was gone; but her faint fragrance lingered. “I don’t know when I have felt so at peace. I know it can’t stay this way. I need to get back to Uncle John; but where are Sam and Larry and the others? And Red Eagle, too? Is his foot going to be alright? So many questions and no answers!”

When Rori returned, she was carrying a bowl of water and a clean white cloth. Throwing the furs back, Clay started to get up when he remembered, he still didn’t have his clothes.

“Rori, I’m confused. I feel the need to return to Uncle John. I’m not even sure he knows where I am. Is Sam still here? How is Red Eagle? Has his foot healed?

She set the bowl down and came over to him, kissing his forehead. “Peace.” was all she said. She took his left arm and began removing the bandages. Clay was surprised to see that only a thin line was left where the big cat had grabbed him.

“It’s all healed”, he said. “Hardly even left a scar. You’re a good Doctor, Rori.”

She smiled at him and dropped her eyes. Next, she took his right hand and placed it in her lap. Carefully, she began unwrapping the thick bandage. When she removed it, she placed his hand in the warm water. There was still evidence of dried blood around the incision. Clay stared at the mark in the palm of his hand. He had trouble moving his fingers, but Rori began to massage them, working them back and forth. Feeling gradually began to return.

“It looks good. Thank you,” was all that he could think to say.

Rori dried his hand with the white cloth. Then she produced a piece of buckskin that looked like a glove with the end of the fingers cut off. She placed this on his hand and smiled, saying something in her native tongue.

“I was so busy teaching you how to speak English that I never learned how to speak your language. What did you just say? ‘Unta’, what does it mean?”

Rori repeated the word ‘Unta’ and gestured that it meant that it was finished. She left and returned shortly with a loin cloth and many strips of deer hide.

Clay said “If you return my clothes, I’ll have everything I need.”

She shook her head ‘No’ and urged him to take what she had brought. She pointed to herself and said “help”.

“That’s OK. I’m sure I can take care of this myself. Thanks, anyway.”

Rori did not offer to leave; so Clay turned his back and began trying to figure out the puzzle of straps and ties. After several of his attempts, Rori came to his aid, showing him how to complete the task. It was obvious what this had brought about. Rori lowered her eyes and made a noise that sounded like a giggle. Clay sensed what elicited her response, but he was doing everything he could to keep a clear mind!

“Where are the clothes I was wearing when I got here?” he said a little too harshly.

Rori drew back and covered her face.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean for that to sound so gruff. I’m just not comfortable in this outfit. Is there any reason I have to wear it?” He started to untie the straps holding the loin cloth.

“NO! NO! Must wear! Would be insult not wear! Must present self to Chief. Rori was adamant!

“OK, OK! This is going to take some getting used to. It’s kind of hard to walk around.” (Clay was thinking of his recent burns and he didn’t want to go through that again!)

“You come,” Rori said and she motioned for Clay to follow her. “Go to Golden Eagle,” she said as she made a bow.

Being out of the sun, Clay had lost most of his tan, leaving him quite pale. “I’d rather wait a few days.” he answered; “I’ll be tan again before you know it.”

“Golden Eagle waiting. You come!”

“When you make up your mind about something, that’s it,” Clay said to himself. “I’m coming, I’m coming. You sure can be feisty when you want to.”

Rori stopped and turned to face him. “Feisty?” she said, tilting her head.

Clay grinned as he said “It means sassy, I must do what you say!”

She repeated “Feisty, feisty. Good word. Now come!”

He followed her toward Golden Eagle’s lodge amid all the strange looks and covered mouths. He was sure he heard giggling, but he held his head high and tried to flex his muscles as he walked.

The Chief was waiting for them in the doorway of his dwelling. As they approached, Rori took a few steps out in front. She stopped before Golden Eagle and bowed her head as she said

“Great Chief, Urba Clay, Horse Rider of the Comanche.”

Clay wasn’t sure what he was supposed to do. He nodded his head in acknowledgment and said “Chief Golden Eagle”

“Your hand? the Chief asked.

“It’s healing nicely. The pain is gone. Rori is a good nurse.” Clay wasn’t sure how much he should tell the Chief.

“You are brave. Golden Eagle glad to call you ‘Brother’ and share with you. Come with me.” They walked to the clearing near the spring. “You say ‘Eagle’ now.” He then produced a beautifully carved bow and several arrows, handing them to Clay.

“You learn.” He said as he raised his own bow, placing the arrow against the string. “Hare,” he said pointing to a large rabbit hopping near the water some 30 yards away. “Z z ing!” a perfect shot.

“That’s some shooting,” Clay said showing some emotion with his voice.

“Now, you do. Stand here. Lean on front foot. Never take eyes from prey. Pull arrow back. Keep steady. Release!” Golden Eagle conveyed all this to Clay with his movements and grunts. Surprisingly, Clay ‘s arrow covered the same distance but didn’t come close to any game.

The Chief was pleased, anyway. He slapped Clay on the back and said “Good.” He made a motion with his hands that Clay took to mean he should practice. He gave Clay some more arrows and returned to the camp. Clay continued, aiming at various posts or birds without success.

“There must be a secret to how you do this. By the time I get lined up, my rabbit is long gone! This is going to take some time to learn.”

As the sun was setting, Clay returned to the camp a little dejected. Everyone was gathered around the campfire. He could smell the dinner cooking. The women began to pick up each person’s bowl and fill it with some sort of stew, serving the Chief first, then the Braves and last of all, the rest of the women. Clay had been served by Rori along with the Braves. He assumed the children had been served earlier and put to bed.

After the meal, the bowls were gathered by the women who then departed. Golden Eagle produced a pipe of sorts and lighted it. When he had taken several puffs, he passed it to the Medicine Man, who, in turn, passed it on to the Braves. Clay regarded his turn with apprehension. He took the pipe from the Brave next to him and put it to his lips. He inhaled the smoke and almost gagged. Trying to keep his cool, he exhaled quickly and passed the pipe on. He could feel the tears in his eyes and prayed that they would stay there. He felt that everyone was watching him. Then he saw Golden Eagle nod to him; so he knew he had passed the test.

Next, different Braves got up and came to stand in front of the Chief. Each one seemed to have a question to ask. Golden Eagle appeared to consider their request and he then answered with various hand signals and grunts.

This ritual occurred every evening after the meal. All conflicts were settled and disagreements were handled.

One evening at the end of the second week, Clay felt the urge to ask about his particular situation. He stood and waited for the Chief to acknowledge him. He then went to stand before him and ask his question.

“Golden Eagle, I feel that I must return to Uncle John. I’m suppose to be helping him with his summer work. I will have to return to Indianapolis before the end of August; so I don’t want to delay him if I can help it.”

The Chief said “You are my brother, always. You are welcome at my campfire any time. I know you must go. Come, ride with me again.” He stood and had Clay kneel. Placing his lance on Clay’s shoulder, he said “May the Spirits ride with you and keep you from harm. Rise. When the sun rises, we will take you to John.”

Clay responded. “Thank you for the honor you have bestowed on me and for the hospitality you have shown me. I’m very proud to be called ‘Horse Rider of the Comanche’.”

Dawn came early the next morning. Clay turned to Rori as he held her in his arms. “I could not have made it if you had not taken such good care of me. This has been a milestone in my life. I will never forget you. Peace - and love, Rori.” Clay kissed her cheek and tasted the salty tear. He held her close and then rose to dress in the garments the Chief had provided for him. When he opened the tepee, he found Golden Eagle and the two Braves he had become acquainted with waiting for him. He retrieved Chiric from behind the tepee where he had been tethered. With little effort he saddled the stallion and mounted him. Cheric seemed very spirited with Clay aboard as he pranced ahead of the little party. Rori was waiting for them as they approached the edge of the campsite. She was carrying a blanket of many colors which she presented to Clay.

She whispered “You need for ride. Saddle hard.”
Clay had to smile. “Thank you, Rori. Still looking after me?”

Rori lowered her eyes and backed away as was their custom. Clay watched her leave. He wanted to ask the Chief to take good care of her; but he knew he would be overstepping his place. Instead, he turned Chiric toward the path leading out of the camp and urged him ahead.

Golden Eagle made no attempt to blindfold Clay as they departed. Clay realized this was a great honor bestowed by the Chief. He was now regarded as a member of the Comanche Nation.

As the sun reached its zenith, the Ranch came into view. When they were closer, Clay could make out John, Sam and Larry standing with the rest of the ranch hands near the corral.

Shorty turned to Larry and mumbled “Should I get the guns?”

“NO!” Sam snapped. “This is a pow-wow party. Golden Eagle’s lance is lying flat across his horse’s neck. They are not looking for trouble. They come in peace. Always remember that!

When the redmen were about 30 yards away, Golden Eagle raised his hand, signaling them to halt. He and Clay continued toward John and his men, who were stunned to see Clay dressed like the braves, only with gold beads and discs woven in his outfit. He definitely held a place of honor. In the last few yards, the Eagle pulled in front and rode directly to John. He dismounted.

“I return my brother to you. He is now Horse Rider of the Comanche. He will ride with me again!”

John stepped forward. “You have honored by nephew and my house. You are welcome here anytime.” John extended his hand. The Chief hesitated only a second, then extended his hand in an awkward movement. John grasped his hand and shook it firmly, saying “Peace”.

Golden Eagle responded “Peace.” He then mounted his horse and returned to his Braves. Clay made the sign of running water (Constant Life) to the Chief. The group gave a “Whoop” and disappeared in a cloud of dust.

It wasn’t until they were out of sight that John took Clay by his shoulders as he said “It’s so good to see you and have you back. Are you alright? What happened?”

“It’s a long story, Uncle John. I’m glad to be back, but I will miss the ways of their people.” I will miss Rori most of all, he added to himself. “

TBC

Continue to Chapter 12, 13, and Epilogue

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