Chapter 17 - The Siege Returns
They reached the ranch before sunset.
Fifteen riders appeared after dark.
But this time Samuel was ready.
So were Red Willow and the others.
Mercer stood beside Samuel.
"I never thought I'd fight against them."
Samuel looked at him.
"You chose."
"I know."
The attack began.
But Samuel's ranch was no longer defended by one man.
The Apache riders occupied the ridges.
Mercer knew the attackers' tactics.
Bell arrived with three deputies.
He had finally chosen a side.
The outlaws retreated.
Wade Mercer was captured.
But Rourke was gone.
Samuel looked toward the eastern pasture.
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A fire had started near the spring.
Someone was trying to destroy the evidence.
