Frontier Crucible (2025)

[bunniefuu]

Declare your intentions!

Well, sure, I could send out

a whole cavalry company

for this job.

It's an option.

You were about to ask me

that very question, weren't you?

That thought occurred

during your verbosity.

It's a good question.

Astute thinking on your part.

But here's my belief.

I believe that sending out

a full cavalry company

is the surest way to guarantee

that those supplies

will never reach San Carlos.

Beckford...

Merrick, if I may be

so familiar.

You and I

are old hands out here.

We know how things balance out.

There is not a company

at the fort

that can stand against

the Apache

in their own backyard.

Am I right?

If the Confederacy had

hired on some Apache troops,

I believe that w*r would

still be going on right now.

Yes, sir.

Most assuredly.

We don't understand the Apache,

and we don't want their company,

but we do respect them.

I'm not going to minimize

the terror those people

must be feeling

with this epidemic down South.

Sure, there are doctors

in San Carlos,

two, maybe three,

who know their hip

from their elbow.

But what those people want

and truly need right now

are drugs and medical supplies.

It's urgent.

Haven't slept too much

this past week,

trying to figure out

how to supply them.

Find a solution.

And then you had

the notion to ride out.

Correct.

Like a knight from heaven,

sent by God Himself.

I had a notion to ride out.

But then, suddenly,

the answer came to me.

Merrick Bedford

could take that wagon

down to San Carlos by himself.

You could do it.

Alone. Unaccompanied.

You'd cause less commotion

than some blundering company.

And you know how

to navigate the Apache.

The answer was so simple,

so divinely perfect,

that I almost laughed aloud.

The notion of riding alone

through Apache country

doesn't make me mirthful, Major.

Well, maybe not,

but it does

give a man confidence.

I've already ordered

the wagon loaded.

Those folks in San Carlos

desperately need those supplies.

And I need sleep

almost as badly.

I'll be on my way

inside of an hour.

Arm left. Forward.

Plagues and black boils!

Blast them tarnal savages

to Hell.

Thunderation, woman.

What in the name of God

are you transporting

in this wagon

that stinks thatta way?

Are the smells

of burning fineries

truly your biggest concern

at this time?

You got some sass in you.

I don't abide a woman

gettin' contrary.

Oh, Mule.

Allow the woman a moment

to gather herself.

We've all been through

an ordeal.

Well, since you asked me

so polite-like,

I'll allow it.

Ma'am,

may I offer you some assistance?

Have you any medical experience?

Not formally, no,

but I have sliced open a few men

in my lifetime.

A man out here chances

dying every day, ma'am.

It ain't good for a lady

like you to think about,

but that's the way it is.

But you don't have to worry

about that too much, ma'am.

Men without women

are real plentiful out here.

Ma'am, it might be better

if you just let Mr. Butler

bleed out his insides

right here.

What do you mean by that?

Your husband,

he weren't the bravest critter

I ever laid eyes on

when those Apaches attacked.

And that was back when we had

a wagon and horses.

Now, it might be better

if Mr. Butler weren't breathing

when those Apaches come back.

You didn't think they was

through with us, did you?

They'll be back.

And if they saw

inside that wagon,

glimpsed what a looker you are,

they'll be back quick.

With intentions.

You have no

compunctions whatsoever

about letting my husband die?

Ma'am, we gots to prepare

for our next engagement

with those Indians.

Pa, I see dust.

I see a wagon.

There's a red cross

painted upon the canvas.

It's a army wagon.

How many soldiers

are riding escort?

None.

Whoa, whoa.

How many on the wagon?

One man riding on the boot.

Looks like the time

I paid two nickels in church

about to pay off.

You mind your husband

while we converse

with this stranger.

But perhaps this wagon

will be able to--

Edmund.

I advise you to take care

of that pretty little husband

of yours in silence.

Looks like you all

had an encounter.

You folks making camp here?

Well, a man camps

where he has to.

Where's the rest of the army?

Three days, few hours

north of here at Fort Stalwart.

Though it might take you

a mite longer afoot.

Why are you riding alone

like this?

You dislike the company

of others?

Oh, I'm capable on my own.

Where you headed?

South.

San Carlos.

You folks come from that way?

Oh, yeah. We, uh...

we came from that direction.

Ambushed by Apache?

Yeah, and we'd sure appreciate

your assistance.

Them braves aren't far off,

and we hope to be off and away

before they return

for an encore.

Will you help us out?

We'd be beholden.

I've been sent on a mission

by the U.S. Army.

You better hold

right there, friend.

Something amiss?

A couple things

I'd like to say to you men.

Feel free to say

anything you like.

Well, first thing's about these

here animals the army gave me.

They'll pull far,

and they're steady,

but they ain't fast.

In fact, they couldn't outrun

a little old lady,

let alone compete

with Apache ponies.

The other thing is,

if three men were to draw on me,

all at once,

well, there wouldn't be

but two of you

left standing at most.

I'd k*ll the old one first,

then I'd see who else

I could drop.

I'm steady and experienced

in such...

situations.

Well, whatever gave you

such inhospitable thoughts

about us?

Well, I was just considering

what I might be tempted to do

if I was stranded

in Apache country

with a woman and a wounded man

and somebody happened

to come along

with a couple of fresh mules.

All right.

Ma'am?

Are these men your kin,

by any chance?

They are strangers to me.

You better keep your distance

if you want to keep this

whole thing friendly.

Edmund!

Come on, man.

I see you have a casualty.

Oh, yeah.

Now, he...

he's digesting some lead,

though he's better off

than our horses.

Hm.

Will you look

at my husband's injury?

You'll pardon me

while I assist these others.

Yes?

Of course, man.

Of course.

Go right ahead and help them.

Yeah, that's a nasty one.

Deep too.

Have you any experience

doctoring such injuries?

Enough to know his chances

might improve

if I cut that b*llet out.

To hell with that.

We gotta get out

of this tarnal valley

before them tarnal savages

come back and take

our tarnal scalps.

If we all moved to a safer spot,

we'd be better off, ma'am.

Then let's quit all

this jawing and ride.

Well, moving

right now might k*ll this man.

Well, we all gonna

be dead 'fore too long.

We need to go.

That ain't your decision

to make.

Now, she can get

another husband.

Ain't one of us

can grow a new scalp.

Move an inch closer to that g*n,

I'm gonna be cutting lead

out of you too.

Edmund.

Don't increase the number

of casualties

we're dealing with here.

Mrs. Butler.

Ma'am.

'Tain't reasonable to stay

out here in the open

and to wait to get k*lled.

Now, once we find some shelter,

we'll get that b*llet

out your husband.

I swear that to you

as a Christian.

If he survives the travel.

We're gonna ride careful,

and make sure that he does, hm?

Water.

He wants water.

Got any water?

I'm out.

Watering hole up ahead

was a stop I planned to make.

Hey, I have a canteen

with some left.

Well, get it in.

Bring it in, boy.

Is it far

to this waterhole you know?

It ain't far.

It's called Patchee Wells.

It's the only water source

I know of in the region

that stays wet

during dry spells.

I'm sure glad you know

this country so good.

Will we be any safer

in your wagon

than we were in ours?

The important thing right now

is getting out

of the open, ma'am.

So if you're not

opposed to going...

we should be off.

Then let us hurry.

All right.

All right.

Let's get him into the wagon.

Raise him gently.

We don't want him

bleeding worse.

Edmund.

Go gather up our things.

I would like to ride

alongside my husband.

That's a good idea, ma'am.

Billy, ride up front.

Edmund, ride in back

with these saddlebags.

We sure appreciate

all this assistance

you're giving us.

I don't believe

I caught your name.

Beckford.

You heard of me?

No, sir, not that I recall.

Uh, there ain't room

for a third on that bench,

so I'll ride with my associate,

back of the wagon.

Give me a hand, eh?

All right, mister,

let's launch this wagon

like a cannonball.

Watering hole's that way.

Our route's north.

The water and this wagon

are going south.

Step up.

Blisters! Can't these

critters move any faster?

Like I said,

they ain't built for speed.

A slug

could beat this pace

in the middle of winter.

There's another name

goes in front of Beckford?

Merrick.

Merrick Beckford,

my name's Billy McKee.

That old goat in the rear,

that's my pa.

"Mule" Charley McKee.

We truly appreciate your help.

That other one,

Edmund.

He been riding with you

for a while?

Yeah.

Ever since I was a little kid.

But you don't have

to worry about him,

he'll mind Pa.

Oh, I'm not worried about him.

You been in Tucson lately?

A few weeks ago.

Man, I miss that place.

Is there anything new

up that way?

There was a bank robbery

a few weeks ago.

I don't mean like that.

I mean, is there

any saloons or parlors?

Any brothel girls, yeah?

There's a lady in this wagon.

You keep those keen eyes

looking for Apaches, boy.

Step up.

Easy, easy.

Whoa, whoa, whoa.

This place look familiar to you?

No, not at all.

Whew.

Handsome fella.

Explains how he got himself

this Mrs. Butler.

Has his condition worsened?

Not noticeably.

There's some antiseptic

in the wagon,

gauzes and bandages.

Why don't you go fetch those?

I'll retrieve them.

You and your son

should loose these mules,

water them, and stake them

in that grass patch over there.

Now, if we stake them there,

they'll have to climb uphill

to get out this place.

Not good for leavin' in a hurry.

Yeah, well, if Apaches visit us,

we won't have time

to hitch up that wagon.

We definitely can't put

those mules on that ridge.

Oh, okay.

Billy, tend these animals.

Edmund, build a fire.

Well, if you would like a fire,

I recommend

you build one yourself.

The McKees might take orders

from you,

but that doesn't mean I will.

I warned you, man.

Now, you build that fire

like the man says,

or I'll give you another

toweling like I did in Laredo.

Oh, that incident

was a long time ago, old-timer.

You don't walk quite as tall

-as you did in those days.

-Thunderation, man.

Don't push it.

I will build your fire

as requested, friend.

Are you going to sterilize

that blade before operating?

That's why we're risking

the fire right now.

How have you stayed alive

this long?

Being a little quicker

and a little smarter than most.

Lighting a fire out in the open

ain't evidence

of that intelligence.

The Indians know

we've come to this place.

Well, there's a chance

they don't.

Your mules left tracks.

Yeah.

They'll find those marks

for certain,

but only after

they revisit the valley.

So in the meantime,

there's no sense telling them,

or any other band

in this vicinity,

that we are here.

You know, not many white men

know Patchee Wells even exists.

You ever been here before?

No.

Go build that fire over there,

and keep it small.

Did he bite you?

No. Just trying to run away.

Should I get McKee

to brace your husband?

I'm not squeamish.

He's gonna buck like a bronco.

I can hold him fast. Please.

Hold him tight.

Hold him. Hold him.

Hold him tight.

Hold him tight.

It's out.

Please.

Proceed.

Should I bandage his injury

at this time?

Yeah. Yeah, go ahead.

Um...

Is there anything else

to do for him?

All we can do now is wait.

I'm sorry that a person

like you is...

stuck in a situation like this.

Well, it's fortunate

that my husband and I

happened upon a decent

human being out here.

I'll return the medical supplies

to the wagon.

Billy, put that fire out.

Okay.

I'll do it, mister.

A keepsake

from your misadventures.

Beckford.

Let's chew some words,

if you don't mind.

That was a mighty fine

little bit

of doctoring you did there.

I bet that weren't

the first b*llet

you ever dug out a man.

It was not.

Yeah, I figured.

So, now that b*llet's out,

I think it's time for us

to scuttle north

to Fort Stalwart.

I'm not going north.

Just where do you plan to go?

South. Mission at San Carlos.

There's a fever epidemic there,

and the people in that town

need the medicine in my wagon.

So if you boys want

to come with me,

well, you're more than welcome.

You speak with a lot

of confidence, man.

Hell of a lot.

Especially for a lone fella,

facing down three.

Wagon and those mules are mine,

and my itinerary is set.

You know, talking like--

What's the matter, boy?

Apaches, Pa.

I smell 'em.

Plagues and black boils.

Your boy

right about these things?

Ten times out of ten.

Stay right there.

Don't even breathe.

All right, mister.

You know how to handle Indians?

Let's go handle them.

He looks like a scout.

I'm gonna come

from out this boulder

so they can see me.

I know some braves

and can speak a few words.

While he's distracted,

wound him or disarm him,

but no matter what,

do not k*ll him.

You understand me?

Friend.

Ash!

Chalipun?

Merrick Beckford?

Stop!

Red blazes, kid!

You weren't supposed

to m*rder him.

Billy! Billy!

I k*lled him, Pa.

What you did,

you stupid reptile,

is just purchase for us

the merciless black wrath

- of the Apache.

- Blisters, man,

I ain't letting him report

our position to his tribe.

That'd be

a fool thing to do.

I knew this man.

Could have arranged

safe passage for us all.

The pony!

Grab it.

Hey, hey!

We gotta get

out of here.

You now just see

what you done?

The red hell you

just bought for us?

You're the one

that pulled him out in the open.

He had his hands

raised friendly.

We were talking. You saw that.

But it ain't buying us anything

to worry about that now.

When the Apaches find that pony,

they'll be upon us.

Oh, I'm sorry.

I didn't mean

to interrupt your sermon.

Well, surely you could see

we need to ride hot hell

out of here right now.

You just saw firsthand

how slow our mules are

compared to that one.

That's why we need to go. Now.

Get ourselves a big lead

before that pony

- gets back--

- No.

Moving right now

will k*ll Mr. Butler.

Put us in the thirsty wide open,

exposed to sun

and vengeful Apache.

There's some army spades

in the back of that wagon.

Go on and get them.

If we can bury this mistake,

we might have half a chance

of fooling those Indians.

Where the hell is Edmund?

I didn't see him.

Man should be helping us dig.

That man is acting more wayward

than I'm gonna brook.

All right. All right.

We gonna keep his r*fle?

We're trying to hide this mess,

not acquire keepsakes

to show everyone what we did.

Okay. I just--

there just ain't been

many times in my life

I said, "Damn, I wish

I didn't have this g*n."

Boy, I'll swat you

like I did your mestizo mother.

Go ahead.

You sass me again.

Put the damn r*fle in there.

Them Apaches won't

much appreciate us

burying their brave

like a white man.

It's against their beliefs.

Yeah, you're right about that,

but I'm hoping

we're far and away

before they discover him.

Where the hell

did you disappear to?

You should have assisted us

with that dig.

Cleaning up after your boy

isn't my responsibility.

Well, shall we be off?

We need to wait until Mr. Butler

is well enough to travel.

No, we spent enough time

in Patchee Wells.

If you choose to remain,

you do so on your own.

Don't threaten me.

I welcome any rebuttal you care

to offer, friend.

All right, no use you two

k*lling each other

till we know how things

are gonna go with the Apache.

We will commandeer

that army vehicle

if you don't oblige us.

I've got no desire to stay

in this infernal place

one minute longer

than I have to.

But we need

to let Mr. Butler heal some,

or we will k*ll him.

Huh.

You breathe too loud, friend.

You telegraph it.

You give yourself away

even to a man

you'd sh**t in the back.

Get worms, you little b*stard.

I ain't no b*stard.

A Mexican priest

said the words--

Shut the hell up!

All right.

Put away your g*n, man.

Edmund's just trying to throw

a scare into you, is all.

He'd never sh**t a man

in the back.

This whole situation's

tying knots in our guts, see?

It's got us all

a little bit anxious.

Edmund won't k*ll nobody,

unless he gets the order

from me,

and I ain't going to allow him

to flash shots at a man

who's helped us out.

You heard that?

Yeah.

If Edmund draws on me again,

there'll be repercussions.

Whoa, whoa, whoa.

Abner! It's me, your brother.

I came alone.

You can show yourself.

"Dear Abner,

I'm writing you this letter

because I've got good news

if you'll pocket

that stubborn

Virginia pride of yours

and admit the w*r

between the Confederacy

and the Union is over,

buried for years.

At present, the United States

has a list of crimes

charged against you longer

than two neckties,

starting with your escape

from that Yankee prison in Ohio

and including the robberies

you did all along the border.

With all

these offenses tallied,

you seem like a very

formidable enemy to them."

"I've used all my sway

trying to square things

so you can go back home

to Virginia a free man."

Whoa.

"That's finally been arranged.

There's a full pardon

awaiting you.

I'll meet you in two weeks

at Patchee Wells

and escort you to Tucson,

where you can take an oath

of loyalty to the United States

and finally be forgiven.

This is your chance

to finally go back home,

free and honest.

Your dear brother, Merrick."

Ain't it obvious, boy?

Beckford has that old

Southern honor in his blood.

I sure hope

he can fend off

them Indians as good as we did.

I need more proof.

Odious, detestable jackal!

Release me!

Don't do it, son.

Ain't we got troubles enough

right now?

I don't need

any guidance from you.

Look at where

your leadership got us!

Billy, take his g*n.

You shouldn't handle me

that way, old man.

I'm still young enough.

How'd your man get so unraveled?

Well, he got into some of that

medicinal alcohol in the wagon.

Didn't increase

his intelligent much.

That drink didn't give him

any ideas he didn't have

from the first moment he saw me.

You're right about that, ma'am,

but the true wonder

is that we only had

to intervene once.

You keep him organized.

I'll try.

If I have to

discipline him myself,

it'll be severe.

Come on, bud. Come on.

Okay. Wake up.

Get him, boy.

Take him back there.

There we go. Come on.

Mr. Beckford.

Can you come over here

for a moment

and make an appraisal?

His temperature has risen,

and he's burning up.

Yeah, this is it.

This is the bad time.

Either that fever will burn

the poison out of him or...

I understand.

This will help with his fever.

I want to thank you

for all that you've done.

Yeah, well, I hope it's enough.

We're in your debt.

Well, we ain't out of this yet.

No matter what happens,

you deserve our gratitude.

You stopped to help us

while you were on your way

to somewhere else.

You're troubled by this delay.

There's a fever epidemic

at San Carlos.

Medicine I'm transporting

in this wagon was for them.

Well, I'm sorry that our follies

will impact you

and so many others.

Yeah, well, they should have

got these drugs a week ago,

so a couple days' delay

won't matter too much.

Well, for some of them,

it might matter very, very much.

Do you have family

in San Carlos?

A wife?

No.

I don't know anybody down there.

Are you married?

I was.

It's hard to imagine a woman

letting go of a man like you.

Yeah, well, she died

before she knew me well enough

to break things off, so...

You have my condolences.

No honest man

should have to endure

so many trials and indignities.

Ma'am.

Any signs?

None.

We could put

a lot of miles

between us

and this place tonight.

Push them animals hard,

might make Fort Stalwart

in two days rather than three.

I told you when we'd travel.

I also told you where.

I didn't mean

to startle you.

Announce yourself

when you draw near.

I shall.

Would you come with me to Jeff?

I believe his fever's subsided.

He's steadier than before.

I'll get him some water

to drink.

Blisters!

How many cups have you had?

Four?

That there's

his fifth cup of coffee.

For some unknown reason,

our friend wants to keep himself

from falling asleep all night.

The wind sounds

so haunting out here,

so empty and alone.

I don't see why anyone

would ever choose to live

in this land.

Well, there are reasons

to dwell in these parts.

How about this spot?

You ever hide out here before?

Nope.

Never been here before.

Why are you asking?

My brother was k*lled here.

You have my condolences,

Mr. Beckford.

Well, I'm mighty saddened

to hear a thing like that.

Are you?

I said I was.

How did your brother pass?

He was m*rder*d in the dark

by bushwhacking cowards.

It was a brutal k*lling.

Without sense.

Lot of killings make no sense.

They shot him four times

and mutilated his body

in ways I would not describe

in front of any woman.

Well, sounds like

he got attacked by Indians.

Wasn't Indians.

Well, that's real tragic.

A man would have to be heartless

to deny that.

I appreciate your sympathies.

Well, you've got mine, man.

You do.

Let me tell you something.

Mule Charley McKee

never had it easy, neither.

And I took to living by the g*n.

Now I admit that to you people.

But I never done it from choice.

It all was forced on me

back when my Billy

was just a lad.

I had 'steaded me a ranch,

lived on it with my boy

and his mestizo old mother,

but, uh,

she was k*lled, and then...

the land office took the place.

I know all about your "honest"

homesteading days, old-timer.

You were pretty generous

with that running iron of yours.

We all did that back then.

-Uh-huh.

-He's rounding up.

You can't stop

to count out a man's strays.

I reckon I lost just

as many beeves as I gained.

I doubt that.

Well, a man got to look out

for hisself

and his own, right?

Do business the way he sees fit.

A man's gotta be able to stand

behind what he does at night

when the noontime sun

is shining down on him.

That's well said, man.

Well said.

You know, I've admired you

plenty since meeting you.

Mucho, like my wife

used to say.

You're the sort of hombre

that makes a fine friend...

and a muy malo enemy. Hm?

Now the boys and me

understand you're determined

to drive south to San Carlos,

and we figure, well,

maybe there's some money

in it for you.

And never once in my entire life

did I meet a man

who wouldn't change his plans

if the price was right.

To show you

I'm a Christian trustworthy,

I wanna tell you right out.

Them saddlebags we got,

they're bursting full

of spending money.

Yours?

It is now.

And so that's what me

and the boys been talking over.

We're willing to offer you...

a thousand dollars

federal money

to point that team

north right now

and gallop to Fort Stalwart.

Oh, that's a mighty generous

offer you're making.

It's simple, friend.

Go north. Get rich.

Stay alive.

Shh. Hush, Edmund.

Now, all of us

got to stay reasonable

about this thing.

All right?

Now, the boys and me,

we just come up from the south,

and between here and to

San Carlos, there ain't nothing

but godforsaken

country and the hostiles.

We seen it ourselves,

ain't we, son?

Yep.

It's just like Pa says.

See, you'd never survive

going down that way,

and ain't nobody hold it

against you if you turn back.

If we head north,

chances are much better.

Might even meet a army patrol

'fore too long,

if we lathered them animals.

Yeah, racing those mules

wouldn't get you very far.

Though it would k*ll them...

and Mr. Butler.

I'm sorry, McKee.

But I have obligations

that a thousand dollars

could never wash away.

Mrs. Butler.

You're welcome to

remain here with us.

I fear the smells in this area

might affect my constitution.

Beckford.

McKee?

I want no trouble with you.

Well, that's fine.

But I'll tell it to you direct.

We'll take them animals

from you by force

if that's the only option

you give us.

Think it over.

Well, I'll be waiting

on this side of the pool

washing that wagon,

ready and armed

whenever you want, McKee.

After you, ma'am.

You boys sleep well.

Beckford.

Were you asleep?

I drifted for a moment.

I won't let that happen again.

I came to tell you

that Jeff is awake.

I want to thank you.

Jefferson Calhoun

Butler, third.

Merrick Beckford.

You would have done

the same for me.

Oh, I don't know that I could

have done what you did.

It is a certainty that you

saved my life, Mr. Beckford.

I am grateful

for your ministrations.

I suppose that I don't have

to point this out to you, but...

well, my wife and I weren't...

were not made

for frontier living.

You know, I was on the...

the general's staff...

in the w*r.

We dodged cannonballs

and g*nshots, bayonets,

just as any other infantryman.

I never ran from the enemy,

not once.

After the w*r,

I came back home, and I figured,

you know, I'm just as good

as the next man

and better than many.

But I don't feel that way

out here.

Well, the frontier

is a challenging place.

Oh, well, you're kind

to say that.

Look, it hurts my pride

to say this aloud.

I'm afraid that

we still need your help.

Right now, I... I know

that you're gonna do

what's best for all of us,

aren't you?

Mr. Beckford?

I'll do what I have to do.

Hey.

All I ask is that you consider

the welfare of this...

fine young lady

just as well as your odds

against those Yankee brigands

when you make your decision.

No matter the situation,

a man's got to be able to live

with the choices he makes.

Sorry, amigo--

I've staked this claim.

Homestead somewhere else.

Can't fall asleep.

I ain't falling for that.

Edmund! Watch out!

Blisters.

Beckford!

Keep your skirts

behind that wagon, Miss Butler.

Billy boy!

Edmund, what's happening

over there?

You hold it right there, McKee.

Go on and fling that g*n

a distance from you.

Billy? You answer me now.

I said fling that g*n.

Boy?

I said hold it

right there, McKee.

I got to get my boy.

He's past helping.

It can't be.

It is.

Not Billy.

I'm looking at you, Beckford.

And I'm looking at you with ire

and a burning, boiling wrath.

And I swear...

I swear a fiery black oath

to God right now,

that if I get the chance,

I'm gonna end your life.

And if I get the chance,

I'll do it with my bare hands.

Hm?

You drag Edmund to the overhang.

Do what you want with him there,

if anything.

I cracked his skull pretty hard.

And drag your boy over there

so you can bury him.

You don't want the buzzards

catching his scent.

Is it time to leave?

If your husband feels

well enough to travel,

we should be off.

You're...

you're still heading south?

Yes, ma'am, I am.

Jeff insists that we can't go

in that direction.

He is adamant on the matter.

I'm going south.

If you all want to come with me,

that's entirely up to you.

You're gonna leave me

and my injured husband

in the Apache country?

Oh, I'd hate to do so.

That is, again, your choice.

You know what they're gonna do

to us if they find us here

with a m*rder*d Apache.

You aren't as noble

as I earlier imagined

if you'd allow

such a thing to happen.

Look, I have a heap of miles

between here and San Carlos,

and I have enough to do

than battle my own passengers.

Well, then,

perhaps this conflict

should be settled beforehand.

My husband and I decided

to challenge your autocracy.

Put that thing down.

If you're to sh**t me,

you better point that

at my heart, not my shoulder

like you're doing.

Because you ain't

takin' these mules

unless you k*ll me.

I'd rather tie you up

than hurt you,

so don't do

anything underhanded.

You're the one

being underhanded.

Coming at me with a sweet,

friendly tone

and pulling a g*n on me.

Go on.

sh**t me.

Right here.

Then ride north

through Apache country.

We can try it.

Sure you can.

Did it once before, didn't you?

Only you had

one more man back then.

Edmund over there

has a cracked skull,

so he won't do much,

being dizzy--

Be quiet.

Of course, you folks will panic

and lather up

these mules full out,

which will k*ll them,

make your husband bleed--

Shut up!

Ah!

You hold it right there.

Slither back to your cave.

Now, if nobody else

intends to attack me,

I think I'll have

some breakfast.

Mrs. Butler!

You care to join me?

Look, I don't want you

to feel too badly now.

I know you were put up

to doing what you did.

Ma'am, I've got

more than I can eat.

Please. Come join me.

Thank you.

Billy's dead.

Just cut down in the night.

There's a patch of

soil on the incline over here,

where I buried my brother.

Probably a good place for you

to put Billy.

I left the shovels over there.

If you intend

to ride south with me,

I'd start digging.

You'll have us

in your wagon as passengers?

Unarmed.

Bound up firm with rope,

you two won't be

too much trouble.

I'll be leaving soon.

Edmund.

It's nearly time to go.

Mr. Beckford.

Can I speak with you

for a moment, please?

I am feeling...

...much better

now after that meal,

much more my... myself.

Thank you.

So you and Mrs. Butler

are gonna join me then, huh?

Oh, I'd much rather chance

bleeding to death

in a moving wagon

than remain in this

watering hole,

weaponless, without horses,

awaiting Apaches.

So you have no issue

against going south?

Is that right?

I have everything against

riding in that direction,

but the wagon is yours, and...

you've claimed my two-shot.

I suppose that does

change things, doesn't it?

Yeah, but I'm never gonna

survive a journey

in that direction

with so many hostiles.

And you were a soldier once,

weren't you?

I mean,

sometimes the smartest course

is to retreat.

I wasn't on the general's staff.

Look, I've got things to do

before we clear out,

and those two are nearly

done digging, so...

Hold on.

Wait, wait, wait.

I've got one final offer

to make.

Don't you waste

one more syllable

on the subject of going north.

I--I've seen the way

that you look at Valerie.

What are you talking about?

I've been sick,

my good host, not blind.

I haven't done anything.

Do you deny that you want her?

Look, I don't see

the sense of talking

about this kind of thing.

She's your wife.

I know my wife,

and I can tell without asking

that she sees in you the kind

of man she thought that I was

when she married me.

I have work to do.

I brought my wife out here

with a bouquet of hopes

and dreams and promises

that have all just

withered in the sun.

All right, as a husband,

I'm a failure.

Well, there ain't nothing

I can do about that.

Yes, there is.

I'm not following you.

If we survive this ordeal

and Valerie goes back east

with me,

it's only gonna be

out of a sense of loyalty

and obligation.

Okay, it is obvious

that her feelings of affection

have already found a new,

far more worthy subject.

You should really

sleep this off.

Listen to me, please.

Take us to Tucson, okay?

And I swear, hand to God,

I will step out

of this marriage.

Valerie will be free.

Does she know you're offering

to leave her like this?

No, she doesn't know.

But I have a feeling she won't

have any problem stepping aside

after all that's gone on.

That was...

that was not an easy thing

to say, so...

please, sir, I'll have

your decision at this time.

A yellow serpent

who'd offer what you just did

doesn't deserve a woman

like that...

but none of that

changes the fact

that this medicine

needs to reach San Carlos.

Mr. Beckford...

I just wanted to let you know

that we're ready.

Good. It's past time

we hit the trail.

Me and Ed

can take care of the rest.

All right?

You sure you're up to travel?

Yes.

Sorry to break up the conclave.

We'll go gather

the last of our possessions

from the overhang.

Be quick.

We will.

Please forgive me

for my behavior moments ago.

I, uh...

There ain't nothing to forgive.

I was startled

when I saw those scars.

You're wasting time.

Get your husband in the wagon.

There's something

I must tell you.

They intend to take

the wagon from you.

I know. And you should be glad,

McKee and Edmund

are going your way.

They discussed their plan

with us.

Well, I didn't think you folks

were exchanging recipes.

Jeff told them that

he's willing to endure the mules

being run full out

all the way to Fort Stalwart.

Well, I guess he'd agree

to anything at this point.

They want me to take that g*n

from your holster

as we board the wagon.

Why're you telling me this?

I know what type of men

McKee and Edmund are,

and I can't abide

putting you at their mercy.

I'll pretend...

as if I still intend

to disarm you,

and when the time comes,

stop my efforts

with a convincing

display of force.

I'll make sure not to harm you.

I've seen how gentle you can be.

Thank you.

What is it?

Drums.

Go to your husband. Now.

Red blazes.

Where the hell is he?

These g*ns are unloaded,

but I will still sh**t anyone

who tries for them.

You hear that sound, man?

That's Indian drums

pounding out there, now.

It's time for all of us

to throw in together.

They found and dug up

that brave we buried.

Thunderation.

Sounds like they're

consigning him to their gods.

-Come on.

-We got to go quick

while they're distracted

with their ritual.

Yeah, I doubt they'll

let us ride free,

but only one way

to find out. Are you ready?

I'm too scared to feel any pain

right now.

You two get him in the wagon.

Be gentle.

Over in there, bud.

Go on.

What do you think,

they're setting up a boutique?

Well, if we survive this day,

I plan on enjoying myself.

You get back there

with the Butlers

and your hard-earned money.

Edmund, wait.

- There's a matter to discuss.

- Be concise.

Now, we've thrown in with you,

and we'll abide your say-so,

and I swear that to you

as a Christian

directly into the radiant ears

of Christ Himself.

Now you give us back them g*ns,

so we have a chance

of surviving this engagement.

I admire you, McKee,

I really do.

Especially how you let

those absurd notions

exit your mouth.

You won't arm us?

Not now, maybe not ever.

But I tell you what.

If I see a host

of galloping braves

riding towards us

with dire intentions,

I will revisit the notion.

Now get in!

You rotten...

You reptiles stay

to the rear of the wagon.

If you approach me

or molest the Butlers,

you will learn firsthand

that Christ ain't ever

gonna call you up to Heaven.

What is there

to see at present?

Nothing.

But it's a meaningful nothing.

When're you gonna

let out them mules?

As soon--

Whoa, whoa, whoa!

What the hell are you doing?

That shot meant stop,

and they will not ask twice.

Man, you run them animals now!

If we've any chance

of surviving,

it'll be from talking.

Plagues and black boils,

you are a fool!

Three Apaches are approaching.

Stay calm and quiet.

Are you

friends with any of these?

I've never seen them before.

Thunderation, man.

I told you yesterday afternoon

we ought to run.

Yesterday!

Run where? North?

Right to 'em?

Yesterday,

we had a chance.

Small, maybe tiny,

but at least we had

some kinda chance.

What the hell

have we got now, huh?

Same chance we had yesterday,

except this time

we're meeting them here

instead of the open.

Out.

He is hurt.

Wounded. We have to help him.

Stay.

Out.

He's hurt.

-Can't you see that?

-Val. Val. Val.

Just don't ask

for anything, okay?

Stand up.

Okay.

-Your wounds have reopened.

-Shh.

You know that one?

No.

But you don't have

to be acquainted with him

to know his lineage.

You are the leader

of this group?

I speak for them. Yes.

What does that cross mean?

It means that that wagon

is carrying medicine.

I took on these passengers

when I met them in the valley.

And then you k*lled an Apache.

I deeply regret that.

Such a thing

did come to pass, yes.

I knew Chalipun,

and I was speaking peaceably

with him

when another white man,

who is now dead,

shot him in a cowardly manner.

Pleading with me

will not keep you alive.

I do not plead.

Still, I am ashamed

to have played a part

in that noble brave's death.

Men should die proud

of their deeds,

not begging.

His death was not my doing.

And never in my life

have I begged for anything.

A coyote bays very loudly

until the bear is upon him.

My warriors and I shall see

how bravely you die, white man.

Chief Victorio has spoken.

Hey, keep your hands

off my wife!

Shaa!

If that brave has his way,

Mrs. Butler'll have

a new husband before too long.

Shut your mouth.

Why?

The lady might as well know

what's a-gonna happen to her.

Focus your thoughts

upon your own fate,

which isn't much brighter

than my own.

I been staring at death

for many years.

I am used to his gaze.

You say you are

the Apache leader

known as Chief Victorio, yes?

Is my name familiar to you,

fearless white man?

Yes.

Your name is very big

in these parts,

but I was not aware

that you preyed

upon women and injured men.

We are simply travelers,

crossing your land in peace.

We're not soldiers.

That wagon back there,

it's carrying medicine.

Must strong Apache warriors

really steal treatments

from the sick women

and children?

And what have your kind

taken from my people?

How do the lives of a few

white women and children

compare

to your vast desecration?

It's time for the crucible.

Butler, you swallow your agony

all the way down.

Apaches hate admissions of pain,

and there's no surer way

to get your throat cut.

Who buried Chalipun

in a white man's grave?

Then you are all guilty

of crimes against the Apache.

The injured man behind me,

he was unconscious

when it happened

and is innocent.

You are wrong.

That man fired b*ll*ts

at the Apache in the valley

and is not innocent.

If there is a man among you

who can endure the torments

without tears,

prove yourself strong and brave

as an Apache,

then I will let you all go

in peace from this place.

Even the woman

shall be released.

Build a fire.

Damnation.

Horse manure.

This is very unusual medicine.

That money's yours.

That's a gift from us

to the exalted Chief Victorio,

yeah, if'n you'll...

you'll let us go.

It'll buy you plenty

of r*fles and whiskey.

Chief Victorio

has already explained

how you may earn your freedom.

This is Apache money now.

You didn't have too much

leverage there.

As long as I'm alive,

I'm gonna explore every option.

Now, is that money from the bank

that got robbed in San Carlos?

Well.

No use lying 'bout it now,

staked out here like we are.

Yeah, Merrick Beckford,

I am pleased and proud

to tell you that it was.

Well, I can understand

why you were against

riding south, then.

Damn right.

I heard stories about that job.

How neat, expert-like

it was done.

Now, were you men

also behind that job

in Tucson two years ago?

Well...

as a matter of fact--

Would you hush,

you dumb braggart?

Beckford's trying to find out

if we were working this

territory two years ago

when his brother was k*lled.

How'd you know

he died two years ago?

You keep away from me.

We must test this one first,

lest he escape

our crucible by dying.

Leave my husband--

Ma'am. I know you mean well,

but pleading for him is only

gonna make things worse.

I understand.

Butler, you ball up your guts

and ready your reserves, okay?

This one's as weak as a woman.

No!

Mercy!

Please, please, please.

Mercy, mercy, please.

Ah.

Mercy. Mercy.

An Apache child can endure

more than this one.

Christ, help me endure.

Cry out, and your crucible

will be over.

You'll... you'll let us go now?

The crucible of a man

who steals from his own kind

and desecrates a dead Apache

is not so quickly ended.

Mercy! Mercy!

Many Apache braves

have endured as much or more.

Return the r*fle barrel

to the fire

for the final crucible.

Fetch me a burning log.

You seem to recognize

the handiwork of your tribesmen.

Why didn't you

name yourself earlier?

Oh, I didn't know my name

had any value with the Apache.

The name Merrick Beckford

is well known amongst my people,

and to this day,

still spoken of in our lodges.

Our Creator saw what happened

to you and your wife.

It was angry.

Trust Chief Victorio

when he tells you

that not one of those

Apache renegades

who committed those crimes

walks this earth any longer.

You'll leave us, then?

We will.

And the word shall be sent forth

that no Apache will harm you

on your journey.

What about me?

Release me.

I'll handle him and the other.

Very well, Merrick Beckford.

May your medicine save many.

I appreciate your forbearance.

Beckford,

what are your intentions?

Is Mr. Butler all right?

He needs more bandages.

-Hey, are you gonna--

-You shut your mouth.

I'll let the sun

m*rder both of you.

Far kinder treatment

than you showed my brother.

I'm sorry about what happened

to your wife.

Yeah, it was a long time ago.

Not to you.

No... not to me.

Um...

I-I understand

why they sent you alone

with all this medicine.

Yeah. They thought

I could make it.

Well, you would have

if you hadn't encountered us.

You...

you gonna let us roast out here

just 'cause we-- you think

we k*lled your tarnal brother?

I know you k*lled my brother.

'Cause Edmund guessed

that he died two years ago?

I knew for certain three men

had k*lled him,

and I felt you might be

the ones the first time

I smelt your godforsaken odor.

And then, when I saw Edmund

dismantling that spider

the other night,

I was certain.

Not many take pleasure

in pointless cruelty...

and my brother

got the same treatment.

But yeah,

Edmund knowing Abner died

two years ago

was the fact that pulled

the noose tight.

Man, all that

is just coincidences--

If you deny what you did,

200 yards

from where Abner's buried,

I swear to God,

I will unearth your son

and let the buzzards

rip him apart.

Do you intend to just leave us

staked out here?

Nope. Tie you up, good and firm,

and take you back

to San Carlos to get hanged.

Should get

Mr. Butler in the wagon.

Yeah.

It's about time

we quit this place.

Val? What hap--

Try not to talk just yet.

We're safe.

Hurry, man. Hurry, hurry.

Hurry, hurry.

Go, Ed, go.

I'll give you some water.

I'll go tie up McKee and Edmund.

Won't even have to squint

to aim true.

North it is.

You give my best

to your brother.

Come here.

Yeah! Yeah!

You can't overpower me.

My bare hands.

I swore I'd k*ll you

with my bare hands!

Black boils!

Thank you very much.

McKee.

Beckford.

Do you wanna live out

the rest of your days

as a blind man in a San Carlos

jail, waiting to get hanged...

or do you wanna go see

your son right now?

It's entirely up to you.

Send me to Billy.

I'm sorry, ma'am.

At least Jeff

regained himself

before he left us.

Yes, ma'am, he did.

That is an indisputable fact.

Ma'am.

You ready to go?

I am.

I have one thing to ask of you

before we go.

Yes, ma'am?

I'd prefer it very much

if you called me Valerie.

Well, that is

a difficult request,

but I think I can manage that.