JandrabblesII

Drabbles by Jan II
2007

Title: Drabbles
Author: Jan
Universe: OW & ATF
Character Focus: Vin and all
Language warning - none
Summary ~ Assorted drabbles
Feedback type - Positive or positive and constructive.
Feedback address - personal e-mail

Analogies Drabbles

OW

Vin was happy for his patrol to be over, it wasn't fit for man nor beast out on the dark rainy night. In order to save himself from Inez's wrath, the
Texan shook off as much water as he could before entering the saloon to join his friends.

"It's raining like a cow pissin' on a flat rock out there," Vin said taking off his drenched coat and hat before sitting down at their table.

"Hey, watch it," the man at the table next to them growled, standing up to tower over Vin. "I don't need a lousy no account getting me all wet."

Before anyone else could react Chris was on his feet glaring at the stranger, his hand hovering over his gun. Vin never flinched or looked back,
trusting Chris to handle the situation. Tanner drawled to the black clad man, "In a pissin' contest even the winner gets wet."

"Yep," Chris replied never looking away from the man. The gunslinger's lips raised on one side in his trademark smirk, "Wonder how wet he's
willing to get."

The stranger saw the look in Chris' eyes, the one that said 'You're gonna pay for insulting my friend.' Swallowing his pride the man squeaked out,
"No harm done, it's time I head back to hotel anyhow," before he and his friend made a quick exit.

Chris watched the men leave before sitting back down and nodding at Vin, who said, "Guess he didn't wanna get wet," making them all break out
in laughter.

ATF

JD dropped his keys on the counter before dropping down on the couch next to Buck. Grabbing a handful of popcorn JD asked, "What 'cha
watching?"

"A live chess tournament," Buck answered.

Five minutes later the player still hadn't made a move and the commentators monotone voice was putting both men to sleep.

"Why are you watching this?" JD asked. "It's as exciting as watching grass grow."

"Can't find the remote," Buck replied with a grin. "You're right, watching paint dry would be livelier."

Neither moved as they made a cursory look around the room for the remote. "How long you been watching?"

"About an hour now? Wait he picked up the piece, he gonna make his move. Damn, false alarm."

"You do know you could walk up to the TV and change the channel, right?"

"Yep, but then we wouldn't be sitting here thinking up boring stuff to compare it too," Buck replied.

"We don't tell the others about this right," JD said getting comfortable on the couch.

"Right," Buck answered holding out his hand so they could shake on it.

>>>>>>>>>>

This site is for entertainment purposes only, based on the characters from “The Magnificent Seven.” I don’t own them, but if I did I would run away with ‘em and never be seen again.
Disclaimer: CBS and Co., Trilogy Entertainment, and MGM had ‘em first and do not want to give ‘em away. I only play at this for fun and do not make any money doing it. The stories listed here are strictly fiction
any references to locations or people are only for story use and is not intended to depict any real place or persons.I do not own any of the material - sound, video and photographic - that is found on my pages,
the material is and stays the property of their original owners. No copyright infringement is intended.

Impossible Drabbles
Someone asks the impossible.

ATF

"No, I won't do it," Vin stated thinking that would be the end of it.

"Neither one of us have a choice Vin, she asked for you specifically," Chris answered, as a friend regretting having to do this but as a boss angry
that Vin was questioning him.

"You're asking the impossible."

"You're overreacting, it's just one afternoon. Don't make me order you!"

"It's come to that, do it or turn in my badge."

Chris almost gave in at the defeated tone in Vin's voice, telling him they find a way out. He tried to give some hope back to his friend. "Maybe we
can get Travis to change his mind."

Vin just laughed a humorless laugh, "You said Evie Travis asked him for me, you and I both know if it's a choice between his wife and me I ain't
gonna be the one who wins."

"I still don't think it will be that bad," Chris tried again.

"Not that bad, first you want me to dress up in a suit. Then I get to attend Miz Travis' ladies club luncheon, as the only man there," Vin said his
voice getting softer and more defeated with every word. "Then I get the honor of giving a speech, a speech in front of all those ladies. It's
impossible, I can't do it."

OW

Vin and Chris rode into town after being gone for six days delivering some important papers for Judge Travis. They had taken a couple of extra
days to stop and do some fishing on their way back. Both were happy and relaxed when they dismounted at the stable.

The stable was slowly filling up with townspeople patiently waiting for them to finish with their horses before approaching the men. Sharing a
look the friends decided to face whatever the problem was head on; having so many waiting was something that had never happened before.

Side by side Vin and Chris walked out to face the crowd. "Thank God you're back," Mary said the leader of the group of townspeople.

"There a problem the others couldn't handle," Vin asked knowing when they left the other five peacekeepers were all available if the need arose.

"They are the problem," Mary stated sadly.

"We need you make them stop," Gloria Potter added, her eyes pleading for their help.

"Maybe we should start at the beginning," Mary said. "It all started five days ago in the saloon. The five of them were having breakfast together
and everyone seemed fine. Josiah was reading a story from the newspaper and JD said he thought that was impossible."

Inez took up the story from there. "That's when Nathan laughed and said that impossible was Ezra not gambling, Buck not flirting, JD not talking,
and Josiah talking in plain English instead of parables. He meant it as a joke but the others got upset."

"They decided to show him and since then they haven't done any of things Nathan told them would be impossible for them not to do," Yosemite
added.

"They gave a part of themselves to show him and we miss those parts, we want our Seven back the way they were," Gloria said sadly. "Buck used
to flirt with me every morning when he came by, now all I get is a polite hello. I miss him flirting."

"I miss the thrill of watching Ezra gamble, town is dull without them being themselves," Inez added softly.

"JD not talking just isn't right, I miss both him and trying to figure out the hidden message in what Josiah said," Yosemite confessed.

"You try asking Nathan to call it off?" Vin asked.

"Several of us have talked to him but he's just as stubborn as the rest of you, he insists he likes it better this way. I think he just doesn't want to
admit to them he was wrong. They are all letting their pride get in the way of backing down," Mary told them.

"Any of you know where they all are?" Chris asked speaking up for the first time.

A chorus of yes' made Chris add, "Tell them to meet us at the jail in five minutes."

One by one the towns' people thanked Vin and Chris before hurrying off to find the wayward Peacekeepers trusting the two men to put things
back the way they should be

Gloria Potter was the last to leave; she had tears in her eyes as she hugged Vin and Chris, kissing their cheek saying, "Thank you for giving us
back the Seven we love."

>>>>>>>>>>

Weather Drabbles

ATF

It was time for the boring and dirty work of the ATF's monthly gun inventory. The tin building the confiscated weapons were stored in was
freezing cold in the winter and roasting hot in the summer. One of the pencil pushers upstairs came up with the brilliant idea to have all the
teams randomly take a turn at doing the count. Today the hated duty was Team Seven's job.

Vin and his lady love cuddled together in front of the fireplace as they watch the snow fall outside. Amy sighed at the pleasure Vin's hand was
causing with it's gentle caress on her back.

"I'm so glad you were able to spent time with me instead of doing the gun inventory," Amy said softly, her own hand tracing the outlines of the
firm muscles on Vin's chest. "When it's snowing I love to be inside snuggling by the fire."

"Yep, I can't think of a better way to watch the snow," Vin agreed. "I was all set to go join the others for Team Seven's turn doing the count when
I got the message from Travis' office not to go."

Meanwhile at the ATF's storage facility, grumbling could be heard from the members of the inventory team.

"I'm so cold I don't think I'll ever thaw out."

"Oh shut up, this is all your fault anyhow."

"I wasn't the only one teasing Tanner about his speech to the ladies luncheon."

"No, but you were the only one stupid enough to do with AD and Mrs Travis standing there."

"Knock it off," their team leader yelled just as frustrated as the rest of his team. "Travis ordered Team Two to take over this duty from Team
Seven and we're gonna do it without whining."

(Note: I needed to make up to Vin for last week's impossible drabble.)

OW

JD rushed into the saloon and over to his friend's table. "I talked to Chanu and got the directions and the supplies so we're set to go."

"Let's me finish this hand and I'll be ready," Buck replied studying his cards.

"I'll raise you a dollar," Ezra said with a sly smile. "Whatever would you need from Chanu."

"It's been so hot and dry that Buck and I are gonna do a rain dance," JD answered his voice clearly showing the young man's excitement at the
idea. "I asked Vin first and he told me to try Chanu."

"I call," Buck said adding his dollar to the pot. "You sure we can't get either Vin or Josiah to go with us."

"They didn't want to help out," JD replied.

"Full house, jacks high," Ezra said with flourish as he laid out his cards, knowing if he was playing with anyone other than one of the Seven he
would have bet more on his hand. "I can't imagine why Misters Tanner and Sanchez aren't interested in a rain dance."

"Damn," Buck mumbled, throwing his cards down in disgust. "Let's go kid, at least we're trying to do something about the drought. Why don't you
come with us Ez?"

"Me, performing a rain dance, surely you jest," Ezra laughed.

"C'mon Ezra, I have the directions written down you can read 'em for us," JD encouraged.

"I have a feeling I'll regret this but it will be entertaining if nothing else," Ezra agreed following the other two out of the saloon.

>>>>>>>>>>

Grammar Drabbles
Use the words: who, what, where, why, and how

OW

"What did you hear?" JD asked excitedly.

"I overheard some of the ladies talking, they were insistent that Buck, you, and myself were heroes ending the recent heat wave," Ezra answered
pride filling his voice.

"Where did they get that idea?" Buck asked sitting up a little straighter. "Who was it, was Inez one of them?"

"Apparently word of our recent rain dance has spread to the town's inhabitants. Yes, I can confirm the lovely Miss Inez was indeed one of
speakers," Ezra confirmed.

"See I told you it would work, Buck," JD said. "Hey, how did they find out."

"Why do you care," Buck replied. "All that matters is they did."

At a nearby table Nathan, Chris, Vin, and Josiah sat listening to their friends conversation. Vin and Josiah shared a knowing look as Chris leaned
forward appearing to pour more whiskey in his glass as he whispered, "You two plan on telling them the two of you, Chanu, and some braves
were doing your own rain dance while they did theirs."

"Nope," Vin replied smiling. "It weren't about who made it rain, it was about making 'em happy again."

Chris nodded, Vin was right Buck, JD, and Ezra had been feeling down since that gang captured them, it was good to see their proud smiles back.

ATF

It had been a long night; Team Seven had managed to capture the bomber that had been eluding them for the past two weeks. It seemed like
every time they got close the press would leak something that would cause the man to back off.

Finally finished with the scene, they agreed to meet at the saloon for a celebration. Chris and Vin were the last to leave, heading for Chris' Dodge
Ram to join their friends for some well deserved down time.

Mary Travis saw Chris and left the press conference to make a beeline for him. Chris knew she wanted a scoop for her paper and was counting
on him to provide it. He tiredly waited for her to arrive before saying crisply, "Paul Andrews, bomb, basement, got fired, and chemistry teacher."

Vin couldn't hold back the smile but did manage to keep from laughing. Mary stood there for a minute her mouth open in shock.

"What's wrong," Chris almost growled knowing he was taking his frustration with the press out on her. "That's what you wanted right, who, what,
where, why, and how."

With those words the two men walked away from the stunned woman, driving a short distance from the crime scene before busting out laughing.

>>>>>>>>>>

Late Drabbles

ATF

Chris came out of the conference room closing the door behind him leaving Josiah to handle the meeting with Travis and three others from top
management. He looked around the room before asking through gritted teeth, "He's not here yet."

"Not yet," Vin answered getting a little worried.

"JD, get in there and stall with some of that computer mumbo jumbo you do," Chris ordered.

"Me?" JD asked his voice almost squeaking.

"Relax kid, the top brass doesn't know computers just dazzle 'em with brilliance," Buck said with a laugh as he pushed JD into the conference
room.

Nathan wasn't sure what to think so he quietly kept working at his desk hoping to stay out of the line of fire.

"I'll head over to his place, make sure everything's okay," Vin said standing up and grabbing his jacket.

"This is Ezra we're talking about he's always late," Buck argued.

"Not when it's important and he knew today's meeting was important," Vin insisted.

"Vin's right, he's here when it matters," Chris agreed. "Go Vin."

Vin was heading for the door when Ezra strolled in. "Where the hell have you been you're a half an hour late," Chris growled.

"I take exception to that remark," Ezra replied shocked at his reception. "I carefully timed it to make sure I arrived a half an hour early."

"Hey Ez," Vin said with a smile. "You remember to spring forward."

"Whatever are you babbling about Mr. Tanner," Ezra asked confused by his teammate's actions.

"Daylight saving time, spring forward, fall back, happened 2 am Sunday," Vin said his smile growing.

"That doesn't happen until the 1st Sunday in April," Ezra insisted a very bad feeling in the pit of his stomach.

"They decided to move it up this year, started yesterday," Buck replied almost gleefully.

"Oh my Lord," Ezra replied not bothering to use his poker face to hide the horror he felt at being late for the meeting. "Mr. Larabee, I promise
you…"

"Forget it," Chris said grabbing Ezra's arm. "Let's go save JD and Josiah from the dragons."

OW

"I expected you to be in more of a hurry to get back Buck," Nathan said when he, Buck, Josiah, and Chris were returning from bringing supplies
to the Seminole tribe.

"Why's that Nate?" Buck asked.

"Pace we're going you'll be over an hour late for your dinner date with that new school teacher," Nathan answered smiling at the idea.
"I'm not worried," Buck said smugly.

"Why's that brother Buck," Josiah asked.

"With Ezra in Eagle Bend for that poker game, there's not a man in town that can compete with the Wilmington charm," Buck answered making the
other three laugh.

"Vin and JD are in town you know," Chris reminded him.

"Not a problem, Vin's having dinner with Amy tonight and JD wouldn't know what to do with a lady like Eloise," Buck said confident he was safe
being late for his date.

Back in town, JD knocked on Eloise Lawson's door. "Ma'am," he greeted warmly. "Buck wouldn't want you to have to wait for dinner, so if it's all
right with you I'm offering to stand in for him."

Eloise smiled at JD asking, "Are you sure Buck won't mind?"

"No ma'am, Buck respects you too much to leave you without a chaperon," JD reassured her.

"I would love to eat with you JD, but only if you start calling me Eloise instead of ma'am."

"I think I can handle that Eloise," JD said smiling at her as he held out his arm. "I arranged for us to meet up with Vin and Amy at the restaurant, I
thought you might feel more comfortable that way."

"Thank you, that's very considerate of you."

Buck, Chris, Nathan, and Josiah arrived in town as the two couples were leaving the restaurant, all four laughing at something JD had said.
"Eloise," Buck stammered out.

"Oh Buck, thank you for being late. I've had the best time with JD, he's such a charmer and so considerate," Eloise gushed not noticing Buck's
mouth hanging open. Turning to JD she asked, "Would you be so kind as to escort me home, maybe stay for some coffee?"

"I'd be delighted Eloise," JD answered holding his arm out to her, the two walked off oblivious to anyone else.

"Eloise seems smitten with young JD," Josiah pointed out.

"Yep," Vin agreed. "She laughed at all of his jokes at dinner, she's got it bad."

"Guess the famed Wilmington charm isn't as powerful as you thought, Buck," Chris added as all except for Buck started to laugh.

>>>>>>>>>>

Country Drabbles

Use the name of three Countries not as the name of the Country.

ATF

"Where are Vin and Ezra? Aren't they joining us?" Nathan asked Chris when everyone except for Vin and Ezra met at the CDC's, also known at
Buck and JD's apartment, before heading to the baseball game.

"They each said they already had plans for today," Chris answered.

“This is the third week they’ve been too busy to spend any time with us,” Buck pointed out.

“Kinda makes you wonder what they have going on doesn’t it,” JD spoke up saying what the others were thinking but didn’t want to say.

“They are entitled to a personal live that doesn’t include us,” Josiah added trying to be the voice of reason.

“I say JD’s right, we’re investigators let’s find out why they’re too busy,” Buck suggested.

“Hey, I just said I wondered not that we should spy on them,” JD protested knowing if they got caught he would be the one everyone blamed.

“Let’s go to Purgatory first,” Chris said his curiosity outweighing JD’s warning.

“We can all fit in my SUV and it’s not as familiar there as your truck Chris,” Nathan offered.

“Let’s go,” Buck called heading out the door followed by the others except for JD.

Josiah turned around and smiled at JD saying, “Don’t worry JD, they won’t even know we were there.”

“I still don’t think this is a good idea,” JD added shaking his head but he grabbed his hat and followed the others to Nathan’s SUV.

“Isn’t that Ezra’s Jag parked by Vin’s jeep?” Josiah asked as they were driving up to Vin’s apartment building in Purgatory.

“I thought Ezra refused to bring his precious Jag here,” JD said forgetting his own doubts about their plan.

“There’s Ezra,” Chris pointed out. “What’s he doing with all those little girls?”

“There’s Vin and he has a group of girls with him too,” Nathan observed.

“Follow ‘em,” Chris ordered as they watched their two friends load the girls in their vehicles then drive off following another van full of girls.

Once they reached their destination the five men didn’t think twice about following their friends into the crowded community center. Inside they
saw the signs announcing the Girl Scouts International Day.

Their hopes of escaping quietly were dashed by Vin’s soft drawl, “Y’all decided to come to the International Day instead of going to the game?”

Turning to look at Vin they knew he had them dead to rights and the smirk on his face told them he knew it too.

Buck couldn’t hold his tongue asking, “You and Ez joining up with the Girl Scouts.”

“Men in our profession should understand the importance of giving our youth a solid foundation to fall back on Mr Wilmington,” Ezra said his
eyebrows raised over twinkling green eyes as stepped up next to Vin.

“This is cool,” JD said looking around. “Each troop is doing a different country.”

“You mind if we look around?” Josiah asked.

“Go ahead we have about a half an hour ‘fore the show starts,” Vin told them.

“Show?” Chris asked.

“Yep, I taught my girls a German beer song I learned while I was there with the Rangers and Ez taught his a Japanese fan dance,” Vin replied.
“We don’t know what all the others are doing but we know that group is doing a Swiss yodel and that one is doing a French can-can.”

“This why you been so busy lately?” Nathan asked.

“We been having rehearsals with the girls,” Vin answered.

“Do you think they would mind if we stayed?” Buck asked seriously.

“I believe the lovely ladies would be delighted to have you in the audience to cheer them on,” Ezra told them nodding his approval at their
genuine interest.

The five men found some seats and settled in to watch the entertainment, laughing when they realized their seats gave them a behind the
scenes view. They were able to watch Vin coaching his girls with their German beer song and Ezra doing the Japanese fan dance for his girls to
follow.

Buck leaned over to Chris saying loud enough for all of them to hear, “They make you proud don’t they.”

“That they do,” Chris answered. Looking over at JD he made them all laugh adding, “And I’m glad JD talked us into following them."

OW

The Seven Peacekeepers were returning from a day of fishing. Taking the day off had been a good decision; all seven of the men were relaxed
and joking with each other on the ride back to town.

Gunfire in the distance broke their good humor. There were too many guns for it to be good. Riding to the trees on the ridge they took stock of
the situation. A small wagon train was under attack by the gang of outlaws that had been roaming the area.

Chris quickly laid out his plan, he listened to some suggestions from the others and they came up with an idea that should protect the settlers
while capturing the gang. Spreading out they rode down, waiting to shoot until the last minute wanting to be close enough to round up the whole
gang.

When members of the gang started getting hit by the shots flying around making them fall off their horses, the leader knew they weren't facing
just the settlers anymore. He immediately called the attack off, heading for the hills with those who weren't either dead or injured.

Vin had anticipated this so the Seven were prepared to follow. Josiah and Nathan stayed with the settlers to help where they could while the
others followed the gang.

Nathan treated the wounded, starting with members of the wagon train, and Josiah talked to the settlers. His strength and commanding presence
was a comfort to the shaken people who immediately let Josiah take charge of the situation.

By the time the others returned Josiah had the wagon train set up and preparing dinner. Vin and JD put the captured gang members with the
others who Nathan had treated. Josiah had some of the settlers on guard duty. Vin and JD recognized that helping out was doing a lot to restore
their confidence.

"What is that delightful smell?" Ezra asked making one of the ladies cooking dinner smile brightly.

"Josiah says it's dinner," Buck answered. "And they invited us to join them as a thank you."

Sniffing the air again Ezra said, "I for one vote yes."

"These folks seem shook up, might help if we stay for awhile," Vin suggested.

"Vin's right, I think it'll help them if we stay," Nathan agreed.

"I'm for staying, be good to have a meal before we take the prisoners back," JD added.

"Buck," Chris said nudging his friend who was smiling at one of the women.

"Huh, oh I'm for staying. Here darlin' let me lift that heavy ole pot for you," Buck answered rushing off to help the woman he'd been watching.

"They been going to a lot of trouble to get the meal ready for us, least we can do is stay," Josiah cast his vote.

"All right we'll stay," Chris agreed.

Ezra followed his nose to the delicious smell, talking to the woman preparing it he returned to his friends telling them, "Gentlemen, we are in for
a treat the main course of our feast is the traditional French dish, coq au vin."

Josiah smiled when Vin and JD looked to him to translate for them. "Chicken in wine."

"Guys, their cooking this bread stuff that smells great," Buck added when he rejoined them. "They called it Italian bruschetta."

"I forgot to tell you, this is a group of immigrants and they wanted to thank us by making some of the foods from their homelands," Josiah told
them a big smile on his face.

They ate heartily until the dessert was brought out. "What's that?" Nathan asked.

"German chocolate cake," the settler replied holding out a plate to each of them.

"What's the stuff on top?" Buck spoke up picking at the cake with his fork.

"Never seen anything like that," Chris said softly to Ezra.

"You guys should try it, it's good," JD told them shoveling the cake into his mouth.

"Yeah, if you don't want it I'll eat yours," Vin offered.

The other five looked at their two youngest and laughing at the chocolate cake crumbs all over their faces as they enthusiastically ate their
dessert.

>>>>>>>>>>

Homecoming Drabbles

ATF

Ezra tried to hide his smile as he looked around the office at his friends. There was an excitement in the air that had been missing ever since Vin
and JD had been assigned to aid the Nashville ATF in an investigation that started in Denver. After two and a half long weeks their missing
compatriots were coming home.

The first week seemed normal but a little subdued around the office. JD's enthusiasm was missed as was Vin's quiet presence. Josiah confided
to the others that he couldn't believe how much he was missing trying to beat Vin to the office to make that first pot of coffee, it had become a
game between the two men that gave a smile to everyone on the team.

Buck and Chris were both showing signs of missing JD and Vin. Buck was a natural born caregiver and even though JD was more than able to
care for himself, he would graciously let Buck mother hen him. Chris knew he had demons but when Vin was around he helped Chris stay
balanced, reminding the man in black of good things instead of the bad.

The paramedic in Nathan always worried when one or more of the team was away from his care. He knew they were all smart men who knew how
to take care of themselves, he just always felt better when the rest of the team was the one watching their backs. Ezra was honest enough with
himself to admit he was missing them too, making a call he made arrangements to show them he cared.

JD sighed when settled into his seat next to Vin for their flight home. They both knew they had Ezra to thank for the mix up that lead to their
flying home in first class instead of coach. Last night they had sat in the hotel bar and each confessed how much they were missing having the
others around, each promised not to let the others know when they got home thinking they would never hear the end of it.

Vin knew he was going home to an empty apartment while Buck would probably bypass his normal date to be home for JD. When JD came to Vin
with an idea to call when they got to the airport then say Vin's jeep wouldn't start and they needed a ride, Vin readily agreed.

Neither Vin or JD were prepared for the sight that greeted them as they exited their plane. There waiting at their gate, huge smiles on their
faces, were their five teammates, no not teammates, family.

"How'd you guys get here at the gate?" JD asked knowing security measures allowed only people with tickets into that area.

"What's the use of having an ATF badge if you can't use it," Josiah explained pulling Vin and JD into one of his famous bear hugs.

Chris looked around at the others getting off the plane and decided they needed to take the homecoming somewhere a little more private. "Let's
get your luggage then go to the saloon for a welcome home party."

Inez smiled at the group of seven men sitting in their booth laughing and catching up with each other. She had a feeling this homecoming would
be going long into the night. With a wave and smile she signaled Ezra to stay as long as they wanted, just lock the door on the way out.

OW

Chris found himself breathing easier with each mile they were putting between him and the Jericho prison. As much as Chris liked to think he
could handle the situation by himself, he had to admit he felt a sense of relief when he heard the call, "It's the Larabee Gang."

Each of his friends had made it a point to ride at his side during the ride home, filling him in on the details of his rescue. Buck apologized for
taking so long to figure out he was in trouble and told him Mary was the first to figure it out. JD told him about some silly three-legged dog. Chris
couldn't hold back his smile being too glad to be back with his friends to care about how funny the joke was.

Nathan wanted them to stop so Chris could rest until Chris pointed out Nathan had been shot and was hurt worse than he was. Of course then
Josiah suggested they should stop and let Nathan get some rest, much to the amusement of the others.

Josiah made a point of reminding Chris that other innocents were set free because he had stood up for the traveling salesman. Ezra regaled
Chris with his telling of how Ezra extracted the information they needed from the deputy.

Anytime Chris started feeling overwhelmed by the others he would ride up next to Vin. A nod and smile welcomed Chris to some peaceful
companionship that none of the others would interrupt.

If Chris thought rejoining the Seven was his only homecoming he was in for a surprise when they rode back into town. Yosemite offered to care
for Pony for him. Mrs Potter came out of her store to give him some of his favorite cigars. Mary asked for an interview about the prison for an
article but only after she had told him how much he had been missed. Several others sought Chris out before Mrs. Anderson arrived and
informed the peacekeepers that she had prepared a special homecoming meal for all Seven of them and expected them at her restaurant in a
half an hour.

>>>>>>>>>>

Boys will be Boys Drabbles

ATF

"C'mon Vin, give someone else a turn," Buck holler waving Vin back in from the field he was using the grader on.

Vin waved back finishing the section he was working on before driving over to the group of men waiting.

JD had the backhoe he was using parked and was trading places with Ezra by the time Vin parked. Chris stood on his porch sipping his beer
smiling as he watched his friends.

"'Bout time you came back in Junior, it's my turn on the grader," Buck told Vin who was jumping down from the cab.

"No, it's my turn now," Nathan said grabbing Buck's arm stopping him from getting on the grader.

Josiah took advantage of the two men discussing whose turn it was to jump in the driver's seat hollering as he headed out to where Vin left off,
"See you in an hour."

Vin was still laughing about the looks on Buck and Nathan's faces as they watched Josiah drive off when he joined Chris on the porch. "Boy's are
having fun, good idea you had renting the grader to make the new arena and the backhoe to lay the water lines," Vin said taking the beer Chris
held out for him.

"Work is going much faster with the equipment isn’t it, hell even Ezra is out there helping despite abhorring manual labor," Chris agreed
propping his feet up on the porch railing as he settled into one of the chairs.

Vin dropped into the chair next to Chris, stretching out his long legs on the railing also. "Guess the childhood dream of really driving one of
those is stronger than his repulsion of labor. I'll bet Ez has it rationalized that the backhoe is doing the labor not him. How come you aren't out
there waiting for a turn? I know you didn't do any before we got here."

"Don't worry about me, I'll get my turn," Chris replied. His huge smile telling Vin if Chris had to come up with another project he would.

OW

Inez didn't notice the glares from the five men she was serving drinks when she gushed, "Wasn't that great how JD was able to calm down that
bull after Vin roped it? You and the kids from the school would have been killed Chris if Vin hadn't roped that angry bull, and Vin was on foot
when he did it. That was so brave of him."

"JD and Vin, Vin and JD that's all anyone has been talking about since Sander's let his crazy bull get loose in town," Buck groused.

"You would think the five of us were just standing there screaming in fear like the others in town instead of trying to help," Ezra said taking a sip
of his whiskey.

"Chris put himself between the kids and the bull but no one noticed that when Vin roped the ornery thing," Josiah added lifting his glass in salute
to Chris.

"Fool stunt by both you and Vin. We're lucky no one was hurt, no way could he control that bull just by roping him," Nathan commented shaking
his head that tragedy had somehow been avoided.

"If JD hadn't been able to calm the bull down we wouldn't have been so lucky," Chris said softly knowing how close it had been.

"Hell, if he can so can we," Buck added putting his drink down and heading for the stables where Vin and JD had taken the bull.

He wasn't to the door when the other four stood and followed. From the shadows Vin and JD watched their friends enter the corral the bull was
in.

JD leaned over and whispered to Vin, "Think we should tell them the white bull they are in the corral with belongs to Mr Olsen, that Mr Sander's
took his red bull home?"

"Naw, let 'em have their fun. Mr Olsen's kids crawl all over that bull, he wouldn't hurt a fly," Vin replied as the two men settled in watching the
backs of their drunken friends.

>>>>>>>>>>

Heard Herd Drabbles

OW

Vin tensed when he heard a noise coming from the empty stall. He and Chris were taking care of their horses having just returned to town after
doing some repairs at Chris's homestead.

Chris was still finishing with Pony as Vin quietly approached the stall with his gun ready. Vin put his gun back in it's holster when he saw JD's
startled face looking at him from the shadows in the back of the stall.

JD's eyes pleaded with Vin to stay quiet when Buck burst into the stables hollering, "Where's JD!"

Vin moved protectively to block Buck's view of where JD was hiding, letting Chris do the talking.

"We haven't seen him. Why?" Chris asked.

"Miranda is upset because she heard that little idiot say I had a herd of women that I was seeing," Buck replied his voice full of anger at their
young friend. When both Chris and Vin laughed Buck roared, "It ain't funny. You know I care too much about women to ever hurt one like that."

"I know that Buck but hurting JD isn't gonna help," Chris reasoned.

"It'll make me feel better," Buck insisted.

"Well, he's not here," Chris said joining Vin in laughter as Buck left them.

"It's safe to come out now JD," Vin said drawing Chris' attention. Looking at their youngest Vin added, "Both Josiah and Nathan are fond of Miss
Miranda so they ain't gonna be too happy with you either. You best be making amends to her first then hide out in the cave I showed you for a
few days so Ezra don't have to take bets on how Buck will kill you."

"He's right son," Chris added moving up to stand next to Vin. "Give Buck a few days before showing your face around town. We'll cover for you."

"Thanks," JD said grabbing his bag and rushing over to his horse. Turning to Vin and Chris as he was leaving JD said, "I didn't know she was
there, I was teasing Buck. I wouldn't hurt any woman like that."

"We know JD, that's why we're helping you," Vin answered. "Now go."

ATF

JD barely glanced up from his blackberry as he approached the table the rest of Team Seven was sitting at. He opened his mouth to say
something only to have Chris say, "We heard."

JD tried again this time it was Josiah who said, "Most City of Denver agencies are involved but so far they haven't put out a call for the ATF."

Before JD could open his mouth again Nathan added, "As a paramedic maybe I should go, they might need all the help they can get."

"Really Mr Jackson, you're are being very noble but I hardly think they need you to help with a herd of buffalo that has the run of downtown
Denver after their transportation was involved in a vehicular accident. Mr. Tanner's skills could be handy however," Ezra added with a tip of his
imaginary hat to Vin.

"You're slipping Kid, it's not often with that blackberry of yours that we scoop you with the news," Buck teased.

Vin took pity at the confused look on JD face to point out the news coverage on the TV over the bar. Moving to stand next to JD, Vin wrapped an
arm around his shoulders and with a wink said, "How about we go help round up some buffalo?"

"Yeah," JD replied a huge smile on his face.

>>>>>>>>>>

Are You Sure You Want To Do This Drabbles

OW

Ezra looked at his cards one more time then reached for his chips pausing when the voice in his head said, "Are you sure you want to do this?"
He played idly with his chips while he tried to answer the voice.

Damn Maude, her last visit combined with his complete misjudging of the couple that recently came to town with the plan to rob the stage office
had undermined his confidence.

Pretending to be thinking over his options Ezra glanced around the saloon. Standing at the bar talking he saw Buck and JD. He knew Buck had a
date with Blossom so why was he here if not to watch him, not trusting him to be able to handle himself. JD smiled at Ezra before looking back at
Buck.

Sitting at a table in the center of the room Nathan and Josiah appeared to be discussing some deep issue but from their subtle glances in his
direction Ezra knew they were also there for him.

In the back corner quietly drinking their beers sat Chris and Vin. To those who didn't know the two men, they also appeared not to be paying the
gambler any attention at all. Ezra wasn't surprised when Vin smiled and tipped his hat to him and Chris lifted his mug in a salute that was so slight
if their green eyes hadn't locked even Ezra would have missed it.

Locking eyes with Chris and seeing Vin's smile reminded Ezra that none of these men gave their respect easily, especially those two. He
remembered the time when young Olivia called the man for cheating and in an instant it wasn't just his gun drawn but his friends too. If they
didn't believe in him they wouldn't bother.

That's when Ezra knew they weren't all here to protect him, they were here because they enjoyed watching him in action and admired his skills.
Skills that Maude's actions and misjudging a person's character couldn't take away.

Feeling his old self again because of his friends support Ezra thought again, "Are you sure you want to do this?" This time the answer was yes as
he heard himself say with confidence, "I'll raise you ten dollars."

ATF

"Are you sure you want to do this?" Nathan asked Josiah as the older man reached for the paperwork to sign up for the steer wrestling event of
Denver 's Law Enforcement's Charity Rodeo.

Josiah just smiled and continued to sign up and pay his entry fee. When he was done he handed Nathan the list and his eyes twinkled when he
said, "Since you're hazing for me, if you want to sign up I'll be your hazer."

Nathan's face lit up with excitement, the rational side of him knew jumping off a moving horse onto a running steer and then tackling that steer to
the ground was not a safe or sensible thing to do. Nathan's daring side answered, "Deal," as he also signed up for the event.

Josiah was still smiling when he walked over to join Vin and Chris so the three of them could sign up for the team bronc riding event. "Are you
sure you want to do this?" Chris was asking when Josiah walked up.

"Yep, it'll be fun," Vin replied signing the paper with flourish.

"How many events are you signed up for Vin?" Josiah asked delighted at how excited his teammates were at participating in the charity event.

"Let's see, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, team roping with Chris, and team bronc riding with you and Chris makes four," Vin counted the
events out for them. "Chris talked me out of the bareback riding event, he said Buck and Ezra are signing up for that one."

"You're a good bet for All Around Cowboy even without adding the bareback riding," Josiah commented.

Vin nodded, "Thanks Josiah, how about you?"

"I haven't decided on any other than steer wrestling and the team bronc riding," Josiah admitted.

"Just stay away from the bull riding, I don't want to explain to Travis an emergency room visit," Chris told them both.

Ezra looked at the description of the event he and Nathan were signing up for when he asked, "Are you sure you want to do this?"

"Don't wimp out Ezra, JD and I are doing the calf scramble too," Buck answered for Nathan.

"According to the directions you and Nathan will be holding the head of the calf and holding it in place while young Mr Dunne and I are expected
to tie a ribbon to the calf's tail. Do you have any idea what else will be on that calf's tail?"

"Would you rather try to hold the calf while I tie the ribbon?" Nathan asked a mischievous smile on his face.

"Quiet all right, I'll wear gloves," Ezra answered his smile matching Nathan's as he signed the form registering for the event.

The Day of the Rodeo

"Are you sure you want to do this?" Vin asked JD as he helped JD get on the horse he drew for the saddle bronc event.

"Thanks to you and Chris, I'm ready Vin," JD said settling down in the chute and pulling his hat down tight on his head.

"Remember JD, don't worry about the timer just concentrate on your balance," Chris said when he joined them for some last minute instructions.

Both Vin and Chris had already made their rides, scoring a 77 and 70 respectively. "I'll make you proud," JD said smiling at his friends.

"Kid don't matter to us if you make the eight or get bucked off, we'll always be proud of you," Vin assured JD.

Meanwhile Buck was having a hard time sitting still once they announced JD's name. "Why didn't you stay behind the chutes so you knew what
was happening?" Josiah asked Buck.

"Chris was afraid if I stayed I would rip into the kid for signing up without telling anyone and distract him from his ride," Buck confessed. "Vin
reminded me that we trust JD with our lives every day on the job, we should trust him to live his own life too."

"They are quite correct in their assessment, we sometimes forget JD is a very capable young man," Ezra added.

"I just wish he would prove it in a safer way," Nathan added.

Buck was cheering louder than anyone when the gate opened for JD's ride, by the time eight seconds were up and JD's score was announced
the whole crowd was cheering as JD moved into first place with a 78 score.

At the end of the rodeo Team Seven where announced the champions of the day since each member had won at least one of the events they had
entered and were now proudly wearing their new belt buckles. JD was beaming with pride as he showed off his for the saddle bronc riding.
Buck was charming some buckle bunnies with his bareback riding buckle. Nathan and Ezra each were awarded a buckle as the calf scramble
winners. Josiah and Chris had to decide which of theirs to wear, Josiah won buckles for steer wrestling and the team bronc riding while Chris's
were for team bronc riding and team roping. For Vin he didn't have to think about it the All Around Cowboy was one he'd been wanting for years
and now with his team bronc riding and team roping wins, and second place finishes in tie-down roping and saddle bronc riding he achieved his
dream of an All Around buckle.

NOTE: For those unfamiliar with rodeo events, there are timed events and rough stock events:

Timed:
Calf Scramble ~ two men event, all teams compete at the same time, one man holds the calf while his partner ties a ribbon to the tail and then
races across the finish line, first team to cross the finish line wins
Tie-Down Roping ~ one man event, rider ropes the calf and then drops him to the ground tying three of the four feet together
Team Roping ~ two men event, one ropes the head of the calf while the other ropes the hind feet, then they back up so the calf is stretched
between them
Steer Wrestling ~ one man competes with a hazer, they ride up to the running steer, have the steer between the two riders, the hazer's job is to
keep the steer running straight so the competitor can jump off their horse and tackle the steer rolling it over to the ground

Rough Stock:
Team Bronc Riding ~ also knows as the wild horse race, three men event, all teams compete at the same time, one man holds the lead rope, a
second man holds the horse still while the third man saddles the horse then mounts and rides, with no bridle past the finish line, the first team to
cross wins
8 Second rides ~ all the three events below, one man events, the rider needs to stay on for 8 seconds for his ride to count, can only use one
hand, gets no score if free hand touches; scored on how hard the animal rides and how good the rider is
Bull riding ~ riding a bull, spurring not required
Bareback riding ~ riding a horse, no saddle or bridle of any kind, a strap is wrapped around the horse with a handle for the rider to hold on to,
both feet must be above the horses shoulders on the first jump out of the chute or disqualified,
Saddle Bronc Riding ~ riding a horse, a saddle and halter with lead rope to hold

All Around Cowboy ~ must be entered in at least two events, top multi event finisher when you add all the events entered together

Buckle Bunnies ~ the groupies of rodeo

>>>>>>>>>>

Heroes Drabbles

ATF

It was a somber ride in Josiah's suburban for the seven men returning from Denver 's Memorial Day celebration. Deciding because of the crowd
it would be best to only take one vehicle to the event, they had all met at Chris's ranch knowing without words that they would need the peace
and quiet his ranch always gave them after the celebration was over.

With five of the seven having served in the military and all seven of them experienced with the loss of fellow law enforcement officers in the line
of duty the emotions ran high during the two hour salute to those who died in the name of freedom. Each man was lost in his own thoughts of
friends long gone and memories of surviving when others died.

No one talked as they slowly made their way into Chris's living room, each grabbing a beer from the cooler they carried in with them before
dropping bonelessly on the furniture. JD looked around the room at his friends before walking over to check out Chris's DVD collection. Maybe
a movie would help everyone's mood.

Smiling at a long ago memory JD pulled out a movie saying, "Hey, let's watch Big Jake. My Mom was a big John Wayne fan and she always said
when you're down his movies would pick you back up again." JD was turning the case around in his hands not paying a lot of attention to the
others. "She and I watched a lot of John Wayne movies when she got so bad at the end, she told me it helped."

Chris smiled softly adding, "My Dad thought the same thing, some of our best times together were watching John Wayne movies."

"One of the neighborhood ladies loved him too," Josiah remembered out loud. "She used to gather up the kids and take us to the theater with
her every time one of his movies was playing. All of us kids loved going to see the Duke with Mrs. Williams."

"My Ma told me John Wayne was her hero, we used to make a big bowl of popcorn and watch his movies every time they were on," Buck admitted
a huge smile lighting up his face.

"My Ma too, she always told me when I needed some a reminder of what was right and wrong I should watch a John Wayne movie. She said he
never let her down and that he wouldn't disappoint me either." Vin's voice cracked when he confessed, "She was right, he's always been there
for me."

Nathan reached out and gave Vin's shoulder a supportive squeeze before saying, "My Dad gave me the same advice and a collection of John
Wayne videos when I left home."

Ezra had listened to the others, deciding to open himself up too. "At my boarding school in Europe they were fans of westerns, especially John
Wayne westerns. On those movie days when John Wayne was playing I was treated with respect. He made me proud to be an American."

Vin stood up and walked over to JD. Patting him on the back Vin said, "Big Jake's a great idea JD, you get it set up and I'll make the popcorn."

All seven of the men knew they just formed a new tradition of watching John Wayne movies together and all were thrilled at the idea.

OW

It had been a grueling chase so the Seven Peacekeepers were surprised when they were able to capture the gang terrorizing the territory
without firing a shot. They had dropped off the gang with the Sheriff at Landen and were returning home tired but very happy.

There was lively conversation around the campfire that night as they talked about Ezra's plan and how well it worked. Vin reached over and
shook Ezra's leg saying, "You're being awful quiet there Pard. Somethin' wrong?"

"What?" Ezra replied shaking himself out of his thoughts. Seeing the sincere concern in Vin's eyes Ezra decided to go ahead and answer. "I was
just thinking back on the good town's people of Landen, they kept calling us heroes. That's not a word that has been used about me with any
regularity."

Vin recognized the gift Ezra had given him in answering honestly. Returning the favor Vin also opened up. "Yep, no one ever called me a hero in
my bounty hunting days. Wonder why being teamed up with you and the boys makes a difference."

Ezra nodded knowing that Vin understood, said, "It does make you contemplate what's different doesn't it."

Chris had been listening to their conversation, he thought about his own situation as he said, "Maybe it's having the judge's support, before that
I was the gunslinger that rode into town."

"Most people only noticed me when they needed healing before we joined up together," Nathan admitted.

Vin nodded thinking of all the towns he had traveled through in his lifetime that no one noticed he was even there. "I ain't out for glory, but it
does feel good to people want to thank you instead of walk on the other side of the street 'cause they saw you coming."

"You got that right son," Josiah said. "Having them look at you with something other than fear is a good feeling."

"Well, I don't know about the rest of you but I'm enjoying the fringe benefits of being a hero," Buck added with a sly smile making the others laugh.

"You all always were heroes," JD said drawing their attention. "Vin and Chris standing up against that gang to save Nathan, everybody joining
together to help the Seminole village, that's heroes. That's men I'm proud to call my friends."

>>>>>>>>>>

Cooking Drabbles
OW

Nettie smiled when she saw the flowers Casey had left for her on their table as a birthday gift. Nettie had a ranch to run and chores to do birthday
or not so over the years she and Casey worked out an arrangement where Casey was allowed to do one special thing in the morning and then
they would go on with their day as usual.

The pair had just finished cleaning up from breakfast when Vin and JD arrived. "Lands sakes, why is the boy driving a wagon instead of riding his
horse?" Nettie asked Casey as they walked out on the porch to greet their guests.

Vin jumped down from the wagon and walked up to the porch. "Mornin' ladies," he said with a tip of his hat and a warm smile. Turning to Nettie
he added, "I was hoping you might go on a picnic with me, ma'am."

"A picnic, that sounds fun. You should go Aunt Nettie," Casey exclaimed before Nettie could answer.

"You don't need to worry none about the chores ma'am. I'll help Casey and make sure they all get done," JD volunteered.

"I reckon there ain't nothin' to stop you from comin' with me," Vin said softly.

Nettie was a verge of saying no, that going on a picnic was for young girls not old biddies when she saw the look in Vin's blue eyes pleading with
her to say yes. She knew Vin lost his Ma at an early age and never got the chance to give her a special birthday. There was no way she could
turn him down, that look told her how important this was to him and that made it important to her too.

Shaking her head Nettie answered, "Let me get my hat and we can go."

For the next few hours Nettie and Vin enjoyed a carefree day. He caught some fish for lunch and did all the cooking while she waded in the cool
water. Nettie knew Vin could cook but she didn't know what a good cook he was. The fish was delicious and she couldn't help asking him what
he did to the fried potatoes that made them so good. He had even made a peach pie for their dessert.

"Thank you son," Nettie told Vin as they were returning to her ranch after their day. "I had a wonderful day, you made this old lady feel young
again."

"My pleasure Nettie, reckon everybody need to be a kid now and again," Vin replied pleased when Nettie laughed. "I had a good time too."

"My stars and garters what's goin' on here," Nettie asked when she saw the table and chairs set up in her yard.

"The rest of the boys wanted to thank you for all the meals you've fixed for us so they made dinner tonight," Vin answered. "Chris was gonna fry
up some chicken. Nate volunteered to make some 'tater salad. Buck was planning to make up some green beans the way his Ma did. Josiah
promised he would make you some of his biscuits, let me tell you those biscuits just melt in your mouth. Best of all, Ezra and JD are baking a cake
for you."

Nettie couldn't hold back her smile at the look of pure delight on Vin's face as he rattled off what everyone was making. "That cake wouldn't
happen to be chocolate would it?" she asked.

Nettie sat in her rocker on the porch between Vin and Chris, they were enjoying coffee. The other men had cleaned up from dinner and headed
back to town. "Thank you Nettie," Vin said confusing both Nettie and Chris.

"What are you thanking me for, you and the boys did all the work," Nettie answered.

"I know you didn't want a fuss today but you let us give you one." Vin lifted his mug to her in a salute. "Meant a lot to me that you did."

"It meant a lot to me that you wanted to do it son," Nettie replied taking his hand and giving it a gentle squeeze.

ATF

Chris sighed with pleasure as the water rushed over his naked body. Being sick for most of the week had been hard for the independent man.
Between his fever breaking the night before and the shower Larabee was being to feel human again.

The water was starting to cool by the time Chris turned it off and wrapped a towel around his slender hips. Combing his hair he ran a hand over
the stubble on his cheeks, still feeling weak he decided to wait another day to shave.

Dressed in sweatpants, a t-shirt, and thick socks on his feet Chris joined Vin in the kitchen.

"Mornin'," Vin greeted. "Breakfast is almost ready."

Chris grabbed himself a mug of coffee before sitting at the table to wait for Vin. Watching his friend Chris thought about how lucky he had been
that Vin was the one to volunteer to stay with him. He knew when to step in and help and when to back off and leave Chris alone. Taking a deep
breath Chris hoped he would remember that and return the favor the next time Vin was sick or injured.

Vin didn't hold back his smile when he heard Chris's stomach growl as he put the plate with the ham, cheese, and mushroom omelet, hash
browns, and a biscuit down in front of him. "Dig in," Vin said grabbing his fork to start on his own plate happy to see his friend was feeling better.

"Damn, this is great Vin," Chris said savoring the taste before taking another bite. "Thanks for being there for me."

"Anytime Cowboy," Vin replied knowing Chris meant it for everything, not just breakfast.

Since it was Saturday and he didn’t have to go to work, Vin filled Chris in on the events at the office. Fortunately they were in the early stages of
the investigation and nothing much had happened with their case yet. They had moved to the living room when Josiah showed up.

"Good to see you up and around Chris," Josiah said. Holding up the pot he was carrying he added, "Thought I'd bring you some hearty chicken
soup. My Mom swore by the stuff."

Nathan arrived as Josiah was coming out of the kitchen. Josiah smiling knowingly at the crock pot Nathan held. "I brought you a pot roast with
lots of vegetables to help you get your strength back."

Ezra arrived next, sniffing the air he said, "I believe I'm not the only one who arrived bearing gifts of a meal. I know beef stroganoff is one of your
favorites Mr Larabee. I hope it will speed your recovery."

They heard Buck holler for someone to open the door. "Do we have to?" Chris asked the others as Nathan was letting Buck and JD in, boxes in
their hands.

"Hey Stud, good to see you have some color back. I made a scalloped potatoes and ham casserole," Buck said with a huge grin.

"Yeah, well I brought blackberry cobbler and oatmeal chocolate chip cookies," JD added putting the cobbler on the table before handing around
the container full of cookies he brought.

"Guess we're having a potluck for lunch and dinner boys, thanks," Chris said feeling the warmth of friendship making him whole.

The End

>>>>>>>>>>

Idiot Ficlets/Drabbles

ATF

JD sat in the van doing his final checks before the bust. One of Vin's snitches let him know three days ago that the word on the street was the
buy would be going down tonight. Team Seven went right into action, verifying and tracking down the location.

Two days ago they had what they needed to start making their plans for the bust. All was going smoothly until AD Travis showed up that afternoon
with orders from above. Top action film star Whit Tucker was doing research for his next role as an ATF agent. Whit reportedly did all his own
stunts and always wanted to learn from the best. Being the best at what they did that meant he insisted on learning from Team Seven and since
the top Director of the ATF's wife was a huge Tucker fan, what the man wanted he got.

Only a promise from Travis that they would all be excused from the upcoming series of hated training classes had the team agreeing to let the
actor stay. The fact that all of classes were taught by some desk jockeys, that wouldn't know how to act in the field if their lives depended on it,
added to the incentive.

Twenty-four short hours later all seven members of the team were ready to toss Tucker and take their chances on the class. Judge Travis
sweetened the offer by showing them the confidential list of who was teaching the classes and promised two years of no lame training if they
kept the actor until after the bust.

Josiah explained that during the movies Whit had a whole crew to make him look good and the man honestly believed his own publicity. Instead
of listening and learning from Team Seven, Tucker decided to show them how to do their jobs better. JD knew Chris was going to show him the
error of his ways if Whit put his arm around the man in black's shoulders one more time.

Whit insisted he couldn't learn anything from the bust if he stayed in the van with JD and promised he wouldn’t leave Josiah's side without
permission. JD was relieved not to have to deal with the man and got in his own little dig when he assigned Tucker his call sign.

"Roll call," JD said into his microphone that broadcast to all of Team Seven.

"ID1L," Chris answered first.

He was followed by Vin, both using the new codes JD had come up with especially for this bust, "ID2T."

JD had told Whit that they used ID followed by each man's number and the first letter of their last name. Making it sound like an honor, JD told
Tucker his number would be ten so his call sign would be ID10T.

Their plan was going smoothly, they waited for the buy to be made before Chris hollered out, "ATF, no one move and drop the weapons."

The criminals seemed on the verge of surrendering when Whit decided to move out in the open to get a better look. That seemed to break the
spell of Chris's command as the criminals drove for cover while firing wildly.

Josiah managed to pull Tucker back behind the crates while the others fired back to give them cover.

"They're using real bullets," Whit whined.

Despite the seriousness of the situation JD heard some chuckles after he heard Vin drawl, "No shit, Sherlock."

It didn't take long for Team Seven to get the situation under control and all the criminals turned over to Team Two who were providing back up.
Nathan called for an injury check and was happy that everyone reported none.

JD was securing the van to go join the others when he heard a strangled sound coming over the speakers. Checking the panels he saw it was
coming from Whit Tucker's headset. "ID10T, report in," JD called worried that one of the gang had captured the actor. When no one answered
Dunne knew the others had removed their communication units.

Rushing out of the van the teams youngest ran over and found his team surrounding Chris and Whit. Whit's face was turning blue as Chris had
him pinned against the wall with an arm pressing into the actor's throat. Vin put out his hand to hold JD back then said softly, "You best let him
go Cowboy, he can't apologize if he can't breath."

"I told the jackass not to do anything to endanger the lives of my men," Chris said with a deadly voice.

Vin managed to draw Chris's attention to the growing wet spot on the front of Tucker's Dockers. "I think he got the message."

OW

Nathan and Josiah were outside the church when the wagon pulled into town. "I wonder if you might point me to the best place to purchase
supplies?" the man driving the wagon asked.

"That would be Potter's General Store over yonder," Josiah answered.

"You're horses look to be done it. Best to get them taken care of first," Nathan added.

"No need my good man, we've been assured these are very sturdy animals," the man replied before heading off toward Potter's store.

JD walked out of the store as the wagon drove up. The man jumped down then turned back to help his wife. JD noticed the man had just
dropped the reins, looking at the couple he said, "Don't forget to set the reins."

"Ah, a young man eager to share his knowledge, how quaint," the man said ignoring JD's advice as he and his wife entered the store.

Shaking his head JD reached for the reins and set them before heading over to join Buck in front of the saloon. "Tell me I was never that green."
"Oh you were green all right but no, you weren't that bad," Buck replied with a warm smile.

Vin and Ezra walked into Gloria's store together, both men liked to give their horses treats and had come in for a new supply.

"Vin, I'm so glad you’re here," Gloria greeted looking relieved to see him and Ezra. "The Blackwood's are new in the area and I was hoping you
might give them some suggestions."

Before Vin could answer Mr Blackwood said, "No need, anything we need to know I can find in Davy Crockett's Guide to the Wilderness," waving
the book in his hand to emphasis his point.

"All due respect to Mr Crockett and his book, I think you will find Mr Tanner's advice a tad more helpful," Ezra said recognizing the pleading look
Gloria Potter was giving them.

"Look dear, the frontiersman and the gambler are friends. I never would have thought you two would socialize." Ignoring Ezra's suggestion as
he had all the others Mr Blackwood turned to Gloria saying, "I'll clear a spot in our wagon for our supplies. Thank you, gentlemen, for your
concern."

Gloria turned to Vin and Ezra, flushing with embarrassment as she said softly, "I'm sorry Vin, I know the supplies he is buying are all wrong and
was hoping he would listen to you when he wouldn't listen to me."

"Don't apologize for trying to help someone ma'am," Vin said his smile letting Gloria know he wasn't upset.

Vin and Ezra joined the others in front of the saloon, they were all keeping an eye on the Blackwoods. "You find out anything?" Chris asked.

"Only that their name is Blackwood and he has some book by Davy Crockett that the idiot thinks will keep his alive out here," Vin answered.

"I would wager the man won't last more than a week," Ezra added.

"Too bad he's gonna get his family killed too," JD said waving back at the little blonde girl waving wildly at them with a huge toothless grin.

Looking at the girl and her brother hanging out of the wagon then at each other the Seven made a decision there weren't going to let the idiot
leave town without listening to them.

Without a word they walked toward the wagon, Josiah and Buck each grabbed one of Mr Blackwood's arms and lifting him off his feet carried him
to the church for a serious talk. JD and Nathan took the buckets off the side then filled them with water to tend to the horses.

Ezra took Mrs Blackwood's arm pulling her aside to explain some facts of life in the west. Vin and Chris lifted the children out of the wagon and
looked inside before heading into Gloria's store to change the Blackwood's supply order.

Three hours later, the Blackwood's left town. They were properly supplied and Chris had arranged for a local man who was looking for work to be
hired on as their ranch hand. Knowing they would check on the family regularly and satisfied that they had given them a good start on a
successful life in the west the Seven watched them drive off waving at the children who were waving goodbye to them.

The end
>>>>>>>>

Silent N Ficlets /Drabbles
Words like: autumn, hymn, damn, solemn, column

OW

There was a slight chill in the air as the six men made their way to the church to listen to the sermon their seventh had prepared for that autumn
day. Normally they weren't regulars at Josiah's services and he never tried to push them to attend. Today was the third anniversary of when they
joined together to help the Seminoles and the ladies of the town had planned a celebration after Inez overheard JD reminding the others of the
date coming up.

Each of the Seven knew better than to cross the ladies of the town once they got their minds set on something, plus even though they wouldn't
admit it they were all secretly happy to celebrate the occasion. The ladies had decided to follow Josiah's service with a town picnic with games
for all ages.

Vin picked up the hymnal and joined the others in singing the first hymn. Three years ago he would have faked singing along but now thanks to
Mary's reading lessons Vin stood proud and tall as he sang along able to read all the words easily.

Josiah deep baritone voice filled the room as he began his sermon. Vin knew he should be solemn and listen but his mind wandered to his six
friends. JD sat between Casey and Buck in the row in front of the Texan. He may be the kid in the group but Vin knew JD was a man, one who had
more courage and heart than the rest of them put together. Vin was proud of the part he had in teaching JD, the easterner had eagerly soaked
up all the lessons the others were willing to share.

To the right of JD sat Buck, Vin knew most people saw Buck as a happy go lucky man always looking for the next good time. Those who just
looked at the surface would only see that but Vin knew different. He knew Buck was a loyal friend and a caring man willing to stand up for others,
a man you could depend on. All the others wanted Buck to back down from facing Don Paulo when the man wanted to take Inez away. They
wanted to come up with another way to save her but Buck wouldn't hear of not doing everything he could to protect Inez from the man who only
meant her harm.

Ezra sat quietly on the other side of Buck. Vin knew that from outward appearances he and Ezra looked like they had nothing in common. It was
only those who looked deeper into the men that they would see how similar the two men were. Vin enjoyed matching wits with Ezra, both had
quick minds and good senses of humor making their talks interesting and fun for both.

Vin's eye drifted to the front of the church where Josiah stood. Vin admitted to not always understanding the way Josiah's mind worked but he
almost always found the man's wisdom a excellent guide. Vin knew that at one time or another he and each of the others had turned to Josiah for
advice. It made Vin happy to know that he had been able to help Josiah when he was suffering from guilt about Hannah making him not fight back
when Poplar framed him for the murder of Miss Irene.

Moving his thoughts back to the row he was sitting in Vin glanced over at Nathan who sat at the far end of the row next to Rain; who had come to
town for the celebration. Vin couldn't help but remember back to when he walked out of Virgil's store, gun in hand, ready to go help an innocent
man from being hanged by some drunken cowboys. He may have helped save Nathan that day but over the years Nathan had repaid it by using
his skills to save Vin and the others time after time. Vin knew Nathan had a hard childhood, one no one should ever have, yet it didn't make him
angry and bitter. Vin had seen Nathan put his heart and soul into helping others and the town was lucky to have a kind skilled man like Nathan as
their healer.

Vin's thoughts moved to the man sitting between him and Nathan. Chris didn't like to sit in the middle but he did in order to give Vin the outside
seat. When their eyes met across the street that day and with just a nod they both knew they would stand side by side to help Nathan, Vin knew
they had bond that would last a lifetime. Vin had friends before, some he felt very close too but none he felt the instant connection and
closeness with that he had with Chris. They were men who understood each other and respected each other, men who didn't need words for the
other to know what one was thinking. He knew Chris would always be there for him, just as he would always be there for Chris.

When Judge Travis asked them to stay for 30 days and help out none of them thought they would still be here three years later. They were all
proud of what they had accomplished in town, they had turned a scared town into a thriving community. Vin remembered the thrill he felt, these
six men by his side, forming a column in Calvary uniforms to defend the town after they had been run out by Marshal Bryce. Vin couldn't think of a
better group a men to be friends with, no friends wasn't right, family, brothers that said it better. Like most families they didn't always agree but
everyone knew take on one and you take on them all. They even helped Vin clear his name in Texas when Buck found a member of Eli Joe's gang
who was willing to tell the truth about Jesse Kincaid's murder.

Standing with the others to sing the final hymn of the day before they went to the picnic in their honor, Vin thought with a smile on his handsome
face, *Damn, life doesn't get much better than this.*

ATF

Outside of the library building, Ezra leaned heavily against the column he and Vin were hiding behind. Vin kept an eye on the street for danger as
he wrapped Ezra's bleeding arm, knowing the blood trail was easy to follow and that his friend couldn't afford to lose any more of life's precious
liquid.

Damn, it was just supposed to be a quick meet to discuss the terms of the deal. No money or guns exchanged so no back up near by. Just their
luck to be meeting with a crazy man high on drugs who decided to kill his partner and then Vin and Ezra to eliminate the witnesses. Unfortunately
for them the man was smart enough to tell the rest of the gang that they had killed their leader meaning now the whole gang was searching the
streets for them instead of just one crazy man.

Vin sent JD the emergency signal, he had thought JD was being overly careful when the young man insisted they take the signal, now he was
grateful they had it. The emergency signal also sent out their location, Vin knew all they had to do was keep moving and the others would find
them and get them out of this mess.

Finishing bandaging Ezra's arm as best he could, Vin tapped Ezra's face lightly whispering, "That blood trail will lead them here, we need to move
on."

Ezra didn't waste the energy he didn't have with talking, he just nodded and trusted Vin to get them both to safety. The wobbling as he stood told
Vin that Ezra needed his help, putting his arm around the Southerner's waist and Ezra's arm around his shoulders they made their way through
the dark streets.

Vin felt Ezra shiver against him, he knew it was more from shock and blood loss than from the chill of the autumn night air. Looking around for
some place to get his friend inside Vin heard a hymn coming from the church down the street. Debating about the risk of putting innocents in
danger as opposed to the danger to Ezra staying out in the air Vin decided to take the chance that the gang wouldn't look in the church for them.

Sitting near the back trying to look solemn Vin and Ezra waited for their friends to find them. The cock of a gun told Vin he had lost his gamble,
the gang had found them. Before either Vin or Ezra could react they heard the sweetest sound, Chris's voice growling out, "ATF freeze."

Later that night six men sat around Ezra's living room while their seventh sleep peacefully in his bedroom down the hall from where they were.
They all knew Ezra would rest better here than in the hospital. Vin raised his beer to JD saying, "Thanks JD for the emergency signal, y'all would
have been down two agents otherwise."

"Good job son, plus we captured the gang," Chris added.

JD blushed as the others joined in with their own toasts. Making eye contact with Vin, JD saw the gratitude and respect in his eyes shining out
for their youngest letting him know those gadgets that some thought were silly made the difference this time.

The end

>>>>>>>>>>

Summer Vacation Ficlets Drabbles

ATF

Monday morning the members of Team Seven began arriving at the Denver ATF office to start their work week. One by one they greeted Bert,
the guard, before making their way to their offices.

Bert watched Ezra, the last to arrive, get on the elevator thinking to himself how relaxed Team Seven was, they must have enjoyed their
vacations.

In their office the seven men moved to their break room once Ezra arrived with the Starbucks coffee he picked up on his way in. On the table
was an assortment of donuts, muffins, and sweet rolls along with some fresh fruit to make Nathan happy.

"First order of business," Chris announced from the head of the table. "Welcome back everyone."

"Let's eat," Vin said reaching for one of the chocolate chip muffins and a milk.

"I vote for that," JD spoke up putting the largest sweet roll he could find on his plate.

"Who wants to go first?" Josiah asked grabbing the apple fritter for himself.

"I will," JD mumbled his mouth full.

Ezra shook his head before saying, "Allow me to speak for both of us Mr Dunne. JD and I had a wonderful week touring the Napa Valley . I must
say our youngest showed quite a talent for discerning excellent wines."

"Don't forget to tell them about the hot air balloon ride we took," JD said. "That was so cool, you guys need to try that once."

"My turn," Buck said with a huge smile. "Elizabeth and I went to a cozy little cabin in upstate New York . Don't ask me what else was there
because we never left our cabin if you know what I mean." The others laughed as Buck wiggled his eyebrows.

"Nathan would you like to share with the others how we spent our vacation?" Josiah asked.

"We went to Victoria on Vancouver Island in Canada . Unlike Buck we did travel around the area and took in the sights. Rain would have loved
Victoria Gardens ," Nathan answered.

"Guess it's our turn Cowboy," Vin said.

"Go ahead and tell them Vin," Chris said.

"Let me guess, you and Vin took the horses and went camping for the week," Buck said with a laugh.

"Nope, we went to Hawaii ," Vin told them delighting in the shocked looks on everyone's faces. "Seems Chris has a friend there, Sean Harrison,
works for the PD and he set us up in a home right on the beach. We saw the sights, swam with the dolphins, went to a luau, and spent a lot of
time at the beach." The Texan paused for effect then added, "Most of the time we hung out with the group of swimsuit models who were staying
in the home next door."

"Models! You have a friend in Hawaii and you didn't invite the rest of us to come," Buck roared.

"I asked," Chris smirked.

"Y'all wanted to do separate vacations this year remember," Vin added taking a bite of his bear claw.

OW

Judge Travis turned to Chris and Vin. "I'm glad you and the boys could make it, feelings are running high about this trial and I could use some
support."

Chris and Vin, who had taken a look around the town of Silverton before they went to find the Judge, agreed about the tensions in the crowd that
had gathered. A week before Chris received a telegraph from Travis asking for all seven of the peacekeepers to join him in Colorado . He was
officiating at the trial of one of the silver mine owners for murder of his workers killed in a cave-in.

They had arranged for Yosemite to be in charge while they were gone, with the support of some of the other men in town. They made good time
on the trip to Colorado but planned to take more time going home. Vin had a few sights he wanted to share with JD on the way.

"I could only manage to reserve one room for you but I was able to arrange a spot for the rest of you to camp just outside of town that I think
you'll like," the Judge told them as they walked down the street toward the hotel.

Chris looked over at Vin who nodded his agreement before the man in black replied, "We'll leave Ezra and Buck in town. The rest of us will stick
around during the day."

"Ezra and Buck, are you sure?" Travis asked.

"Ezra can get anybody talking to him during a poker game and Buck's easy nature encourages people to trust him with information," Vin answered.
"All right, I trust your judgment," Orin said.

"When will the trial start Judge?" Vin asked.

"I was holding off until you boys arrived, now that you're here we can start tomorrow morning," Orin answered.

Surprisingly the trial went very smoothly, the huge crowd had decided to let justice run it course. The town Doctor had taken an interest in
Nathan; the two sharing many discussions on healing.

Josiah could be found sitting under the large shade tree at their camp reading a book that he had been trying to find time for the last month. JD
had made friends with the owner of the local leather shop and was busy making a gift to bring back to Casey.

Ezra was in his glory entertaining the crowd with his talents and finding some excellent players to challenge his skills. Buck found a bevy of
ladies for him to charm, by the end of the first day he had several of them eating out of his hand.

Vin and Chris had taken some time to do some fishing and hunting keeping them in fresh meat during their stay. The trial had ended the day
before, the jury found the mine owner guilty of knowingly put his workers in danger thus causing their deaths.

The Seven were packing up ready to head home. They had all enjoyed their break but were all looking forward to getting back to their duties. Of
course that didn't mean they wouldn't be taking their time on the way back, might as well enjoy it while they could.

The End
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