Hells Acre - 9

Their blue uniforms were familiar, but Dimitri couldn't place where he'd seen them before. They were faded and worn, with a strange assortment of medals pinned to their chests. They all wore their hair short, which was hidden beneath identically cut wide-brimmed hats. Their horses were all black. Darling leaned forward as they approached, studying them from afar.

"Well, they ain't in no hurry. Don't think they got any idea--"

"No," Librarian interrupted. "They don't. And they won't."

He took off his own hat and grunted. With an annoyed sigh, he placed it on Darling's head, hiding her shaved skull. She made a whimpering protest as the old man's hot sweat dampened her skin, but made no word of objection. Dimitri laughed a little, at the sight. Then he noticed that his mentor was untying their captive.

"Don't try anything," he whispered into Darling's ear. "Or I'll settle for half the reward."

Darling pouted a little, but said nothing else. She reached up and straightened her hat, glancing back at her captor before whispering, "I guess we're supposed to look like you actually want me sittin' up here, then?"

Librarian didn't reply. He kept one of his hands close to the weapon at his side, and watched.