The Diary of Astrið Aleksdóttir
Character Name: Astrið Aleksdóttir
Date of Birth (age): 14th April 1882 (18)
Birthplace: Eiði, Føroyar (Faroe Islands)
Portrayed by: Hibblejaybob
Server: WesternRP
Game: RedM / Red Dead Redemption 2
Server Theme: Wild West
Bio: Astrið Aleksdóttir, is young girl from a small village in the Faroe Islands. At the age of 18, Astrið's mother passed away and with her father being killed in combat, she was left with no family and no roots in either of the countries she grew up in. Her father said if she needed help, to seek out his friends from the army wherever they may be. With nothing but the clothes on her back, she boarded a boat across the Atlantic and set out to the new world to find friends and a purpose in life.
This diary is provided as a form of entertainment, its contents must not be used as a basis for in-game information that your character should not know. If you are caught doing this, you will be reported for FailRP (a bannable offence)
Astrið Aleksdóttir is an 18 year old Faroese girl. Her farther, Major Alexander Stevenson was a Scottish Cavalry Officer and served with Captain James McKay, Lt. James MacLeod, Lt. Elijah Dowding, Padre Johnathon Bell, Sergeant Ramsey Rivers and Sergeant Medic Amelia Knightbridge.
4 years ago in a battle in Africa, Major Stevenson and Lt. MacLeod were heavily injured and Sgt Medic Knightbridge chose to save MacLeod, who lost his eye and had massive scarring, while leaving Maj Stevenson to die.
Astrið, who grew up between Scotland (when Dad was home from fighting) and Eiði on the Faroe Islands, then moved permanently to the Faroe Islands, where she assisted her mother, Heiðvør Svensdóttir who was the nurse for the remote village. In 1899, following a short illness, Heiðvør died.
In Faroe Islands, Eiði is a tiny village on the north, numbering only 100 to 200 people. Not many people her age lived there so she lacked social interaction with her peers and is a bit emotionally immature as a result. Due to the lack of things to do in such a small village, she mainly helped her Mum with organising her medical clinic and simple medical tasks when needed. Otherwise, she mostly played card games with the adults for fun and went out on the boats fishing from time to time. Due to the lack of roads, she is a keen boater, as that is the main way of travelling.
Due to the necessity to travel by boat in Faroe Islands and not being allowed out much in Scotland, she never travelled by horse and is in fact scared of them as she never encountered many of them growing up. She also never encountered firearms or gunfire growing up and was terrified of them too.
Given she had travelled so much growing up, Astrið had little roots in either the Faroe Islands or Scotland. She remembered her father's words that if she ever needed help or anything at all, to seek out the good men he served with in his Army days. She contacted MacLeod's family and heard they had moved to America, to Saint Denis, so she used her remaining money to buy passage on a boat to America.
On the boat ride over the Atlantic, she accidently took a wrong turn and walked into the 1st class areas. She found a lady who, instead of berating her, befriended her for the journey. Lady Elizabeth Chester: an adventurer at heart, she was excited for Astrið starting a new adventure and suggested that she keep a diary. She even gave Astrið a blank notebook from her own possessions to get started with a diary of her own!
Eventually, she made it to America and continued West by train, before completing the journey to Saint Denis by ferry. Arriving, she used the telegram number she had been given by James MacLeod’s relatives to made contact with him, not realising he had now moved to Blackwater...
Well, I guess there's no place better to start than with myself. My name is Astrið Aleksdottur, I've not long since turned 18 years old as I write this. I never really thought about keeping a diary, but a kind lady I met on the boat across the Atlantic suggested it might be a good idea. She even gave me a notebook and some pens, which was very kind of her. A fortunate wrong turn, she was about the only person in 1st class that didn't shout at me for being in the wrong place!
I'm writing this on the train west, over to the new frontiers. It's a been a long journey, but I'm looking for some friends of my father's. My father, Major Alexander Stevenson, served with the British Army. God knows where though, growing up in the Faroe Islands, I never got to see him other than when he was on leave. I know he died fighting alongside Lt. MacLeod, who himself took a major injury. He, along with Capt McKay and Sgt Rivers, were some of my dad's best friends - I met them a few times when they were on leave together.
He always said if anything ever happened to him and Mum, to look them out: they would look after me. That's why I'm making this journey. My mother, Heivør Svensdottur, passed away suddenly after a brief illness. Eiði is a small village, splitting my time between there and Scotland, I'm not really tied down to either place. With my parents passing, there's nothing really left for me in either place...
Well I can see the start of the great lakes, which means we'll be pulling into the port to continue the journey to Saint Denis by boat.
Off the boat in Saint Denis. A town this size is truly a sight to behold. The big buildings, the smoke, the countless people. It's dizzying for a girl like me, used to seeing towns with populations numbering only a few hundred. There must be thousands of people here!
I've telegraphed Mr. MacLeod. I've not heard back from him, but I do hope he received it. It would be terrible to have come out this way and for him to have not been reachable. As fascinating as this city is to watch, I do hope he comes soon.
I've telegraphed Mr. MacLeod. I've not heard back from him, but I do hope he received it. It would be terrible to have come out this way and for him to have not been reachable. As fascinating as this city is to watch, I do hope he comes soon.
In the dead of night, a carriage passed the telegraph office. Under the dim lights of the city, Mr MacLeod and Mr McKay came over to meet me. After so many years, I hardly recognised them. Poor Mr MacLeod, he lost his left eye in the same fight that killed my Dad. I don't know much of the details, but both he and Mr McKay offered their condolences for the news of the passing of my Mum.
Mr McKay and Mr MacLeod warned me not to be scared when we went round the corner. I was confused until we walked over to the wagon and I was met by two gentleman of extraordinary stature! Mr Aleksei and Mr Deuce; Cossacks, I am told they are. I am not sure what that is, but they certainly are distinctive compared to most! Mr McKay assures me that they are very friendly, I trust his word.
After a while in the carriage, day finally broke across the mountains and plains. America has so much space! I've been travelling for days upon days, but hopefully soon I'll be at my destination.
We finally made it to Blackwater! Mr Rivers bought me champagne and what felt like the entire town toasted to my arrival. Everything is scary and uncertain right now, but I'm reassured I'm in the company of good people.
Mr Aleksei is a horse trainer, and he was very keen on teaching me how to ride. I tried to explain that I was terrified of horses, but he wasn't having any of it...
... and not a few moments later I was on a horse! I was absolutely terrified, and I daresay my horsemanship leaves a lot to be desired. Maybe in time I'll pick it up again, but for now, I remain terrified!
After spending a while teaching me to ride a horse (with dubious results, I might add), the gentlemen took on a ride north, out of Blackwater and past a lovely little town called Strawberry, to a ranch they are hoping to buy in the coming days.
I must say the land up here is stunning. The the towering cliffs, the cold wind whipping at your face - it reminded me so much of home...
I must say the land up here is stunning. The the towering cliffs, the cold wind whipping at your face - it reminded me so much of home...
Without any warning, the men decided they wanted to test out their new rifles... They didn't know I'd never heard gunfire before - I was half way across the ranch before any of them could get a word out to stop me!
Eventually they caught up to me and apologised for scaring me.
Eventually they caught up to me and apologised for scaring me.
Once things had calmed down, Mr MacLeod invited me up a tower under the pretence of taking in the view. When we got to the top, and the rest of the group were out of earshot, he wanted to talk to me about my Dad.
Poor James, he still harbours so much blame for what happened the day father died. I wonder if my presence here has opened wounds they all would rather have forgotten. They did move halfway across the world, after all.....
Maybe one day I'll get to ask James about what happened. But today is not the day...
Poor James, he still harbours so much blame for what happened the day father died. I wonder if my presence here has opened wounds they all would rather have forgotten. They did move halfway across the world, after all.....
Maybe one day I'll get to ask James about what happened. But today is not the day...
After we made it back to Blackwater, Mr MacLeod took me to meet Mr Aleksei at the Cossack's camp just outside of town. It's big! So many tents. Mr Aleksei was kind to offer me some food and to stay in the tents for a long as I need.
After a long hard day of travelling, meeting new people, and trying new things, we finally got time to settle down and catch our breath in the Blackwater Saloon!
After catching our breath, Mr Deuce took me across the street to get some groceries. I know I'm pretty short as girls go, but to look Mr Deuce in the eyes, I need to look up so much that I'm practically looking into the roof!
As the sun set and I was getting ready to go to bed after a tiring day, Mr McKay asked me to walk with him. We left the group and walked across the street - seems it was his turn to give his condolences about father.
It's funny how Mr McKay and the other old regiment men knew a very different Alexander Stevenson than I did. It warmed my heart to hear James talk so highly of my Dad.
Perhaps eventually I'll get to hear about the side of my Dad that I never got to meet. But for just now, I'm tired and it's been a long day, so time to head to the Saloon (which James very kindly paid for a room for me) and close off my first day in my new home!
It's funny how Mr McKay and the other old regiment men knew a very different Alexander Stevenson than I did. It warmed my heart to hear James talk so highly of my Dad.
Perhaps eventually I'll get to hear about the side of my Dad that I never got to meet. But for just now, I'm tired and it's been a long day, so time to head to the Saloon (which James very kindly paid for a room for me) and close off my first day in my new home!
I woke at the first glimmers of the new day and went for a walk. I came across a group of people outside the medical hut. Turns out In was looking a gathering of some of the most influential people in Blackwater. Dr Abbey Ahlbright, the lead doctor for West Elizabeth; Mr Beau Benoit, the head of the West Elizabeth police; and an interesting character by the name of "Meemaw".....
I got speaking to Meemaw when the others broke away to talk privately. She's a lovely lady. She is in the running to become Mayor of Blackwater. Turns out there will be a big party later on today to celebrate the end of the election campaigns! She'll find out if she's made Mayor or not. I hope I can join in the celebrations!
A few hours later we made it to party. In a lovely dress and hat with a red bow, I got to be introduced to Dr Ahlbright, the lead doctor for West Elizabeth. My mother was a nurse back home in Eiði, and I helped her out with patients as I got older.
I got to chat with Dr Ahlbright about perhaps training formally as a nurse. She explained the process to me and who to contact. I would need to shadow a doctor for a while to learn how medicine works in these parts, then I can start getting hands on.
I got to chat with Dr Ahlbright about perhaps training formally as a nurse. She explained the process to me and who to contact. I would need to shadow a doctor for a while to learn how medicine works in these parts, then I can start getting hands on.
Barely a few minutes into the party, a man runs up to Dr Ahlbright, saying a man has been shot. With myself in tow, Dr Ahlbright headed back to the medical hut. We met an Irishman by the name of Sean Murphy, he'd been shot in Saint Denis, but for whatever reason, travelled over 3 counties to be treated here in Blackwater.
Dr Ahlbright got to work in treating him. Watching her work is equal parts awe inspiring and equal parts terrifying. She so knowledge and quick in her actions, completing the next step of treatment, before I've even begun to comprehend she's doing.
I've never even heard a gun fired before this week, let alone seen someone be shot by one. The tenacity and knowledge with which Dr Ahlbright worked suddenly made me very nervous that medicine here is so very different from back home. Time will tell how I will cope...
Dr Ahlbright got to work in treating him. Watching her work is equal parts awe inspiring and equal parts terrifying. She so knowledge and quick in her actions, completing the next step of treatment, before I've even begun to comprehend she's doing.
I've never even heard a gun fired before this week, let alone seen someone be shot by one. The tenacity and knowledge with which Dr Ahlbright worked suddenly made me very nervous that medicine here is so very different from back home. Time will tell how I will cope...
With Mr Murphy recovering in the medical hut, we headed back to the party. The newly elected officials had just finished their speeches, and I was sorry to miss them, but hopefully I'd get a chance to speak to them as the party went on.
The inherent problem of being shy in a big group of people I don't know: I spent half the party standing outside the group, peering over people's shoulders and not saying much.
Moving to a new country and new town was never going to be easy, but feeling a bit shut out doesn't help the anxiety any!
Moving to a new country and new town was never going to be easy, but feeling a bit shut out doesn't help the anxiety any!
In a sea of many faces, I eventually spotted Mr. McKay - I almost didn't recognise him with his change of attire for the party. He made a space for me and I was finally able to start getting involved in meeting some more of Blackwater's inhabitants.
It's not a proper party until someone rides a donkey..... I mean, I've not been to many parties, and I've certainly not been to any that have featured donkeys, but it certainly was a talking point for the crowd!
After tiring of serenading the party with his trumpet, I finally got to meet Reverend Bell. Charming man, McKay, MacLeod and Rivers have spoken highly of him since I've arrived.
It was good seeing Mr McKay enjoying a drink and getting a chance to unwind. I felt sorry for poor Mr Rivers though. He was on duty, so had to keep one eye on all of our safety the whole party...
During the course of the party, I also got to meet a couple of interesting gentlemen Benjamin and Petey. Didn't get to chat to them for too long, but it was nice to meet them.
As the party wound down to a close, more and more went off to tend to their business. Who was left was a collection of people I didn't know so well, and the shyness hit. I excused myself to the bench to catch my breath after meeting so many new people!
Reflecting on the party and my scant couple of days in these lands, it'll take some getting used to living here, but it is truly fascinating!
Everywhere you look, the towns and villages are alive - there's always something happening!
Everywhere you look, the towns and villages are alive - there's always something happening!
After the party, I met up with Mr McKay and Dr Knightbridge. They had some business in Saint Denis and offered to take me along in case Dr Kasady, who is one of the lead doctors for the medical services in these parts, was in town that might get started with my first steps of medical training!
It's a bit scabby, but nevertheless I am very excited to be riding in a proper carriage for the first time!
After a few hours travelling, we made it it back to Saint Denis. Despite getting off the boat here, this is still a very foreign city to me!
We went down to the telegram office to sort the business Dr Knightbridge had in town. We were joined by some gentlemen I didn't recognise, then more people came and went. Lots of hushed conversations and very odd goings on. Mr McKay watched over me and Dr Knightbridge, just in case.
We checked the doctors office and indeed it seemed that Dr Kasady is not in town. Seems my formal medical training will have to wait...
Dr Knightbridge pulled my aside briefly, and to help me on my way, she gave me some medical textbooks and they a money clip with $100!!!
I protested at her generosity, but she was most insistent. She explained that someone did this for her when she got off the boat and she was passing on the favour. I humbly accepted the gift - she suggested I use it to get a new outfit.
Dr Knightbridge pulled my aside briefly, and to help me on my way, she gave me some medical textbooks and they a money clip with $100!!!
I protested at her generosity, but she was most insistent. She explained that someone did this for her when she got off the boat and she was passing on the favour. I humbly accepted the gift - she suggested I use it to get a new outfit.
Dr Knightbridge had to remain in Saint Denis for whatever she had going on, so Mr McKay took me back to Blackwater. Getting out into the suburbs of Saint Denis, some of the houses here are pretty!
Back home in Føroyar, the houses are very practical - nothing like the 'flare' you see on the houses here!
Back home in Føroyar, the houses are very practical - nothing like the 'flare' you see on the houses here!
Back in Blackwater, I took a trip to the tailors and got myself a very nice outfit for formal occasions. Thanks Millie! I'd never have been able to get this if not for her gift.
After a long day, I sent back to the Blackwater Saloon to rent a room. I bumped into Thomas, the new Governor of West Elizabeth and a friend, I'm not sure I caught the name of. They were nice, we chatted very briefly before I headed upstairs for some well deserved rest!
It's Hogmanay! Or "New Year's Eve" as the American's would call it. How exciting, it's the turn of the century!
As I left my room, Mr Rivers and Dr Knightbridge were outside the saloon along with a new gentleman I hadn't met before: Dr Rob Wulf. Drs Knightbridge and Wulf were... very close to each other throughout the conversation. I'm not sure if they're in a relationship - and I certainly don't want to impose by asking!
As I left my room, Mr Rivers and Dr Knightbridge were outside the saloon along with a new gentleman I hadn't met before: Dr Rob Wulf. Drs Knightbridge and Wulf were... very close to each other throughout the conversation. I'm not sure if they're in a relationship - and I certainly don't want to impose by asking!
Well, it seems my earlier musings were well placed..... Dr Wulf tied up Dr Knightbridge and picked her up, seemingly to wind her up. She didn't seem overly concerned by this (nor did Lawman Rivers for that matter) so, a little bit of playfighting perhaps?
In the afternoon, some might dark thunder clouds descended over Blackwater.... I do hope this is not an omen for the year to come!
Following the storm clouds south, we boarded the wagon and headed down into New Austin. I'd never heard of this place before, but soon found out why: due to a rampant cholera outbreak, the hole state is off limit to the general public!
Doctors and their escorts are allowed in as it's the only place in the 5-territories to source Aloe - but even then I am uneasy!
Doctors and their escorts are allowed in as it's the only place in the 5-territories to source Aloe - but even then I am uneasy!
As the storms cleared and the day started to brighten, we arrived. Keeping clear of populated areas we found some Aloe plants and got to picking.
These plants are immense; some towering nearly 9 feet high! Never in my life could I have pictured such tall, sharp plants filled with material so useful to medicine would exist.
These plants are immense; some towering nearly 9 feet high! Never in my life could I have pictured such tall, sharp plants filled with material so useful to medicine would exist.
Once things brightened up, Dr Knightbridge took the opportunity for me to practice the basics of first and and medicine on Dr Wulf. We practiced bandaging, stitch work and head injuries!
It's all a lot to take on, but it seems there's many great doctors keen to teach me!
It's all a lot to take on, but it seems there's many great doctors keen to teach me!
Our last stop in New Austin to collect Aloe took us precariously close to one of the towns. Civilization doesn't seem like the right word.... It looks like the cholera epidemic and quarantine has not been kind to the places down here.
Even from afar, what buildings and facilities these places have are dilapidated. Maybe in the future we can help get these places back on their feet!
Even from afar, what buildings and facilities these places have are dilapidated. Maybe in the future we can help get these places back on their feet!
Aww, poor Dr Knightbridge... On the way north back to Blackwater, Dr Knightbridge got separated from the group. We headed back south and followed a different road back to Blackwater - not far way we found Amelia on the ground, bleeding.
She'd been attacked by animals. From practice medicine to real, Dr Wulf swung into action and got to tending her injuries. I hope she'll be ok!
She'd been attacked by animals. From practice medicine to real, Dr Wulf swung into action and got to tending her injuries. I hope she'll be ok!
With Dr Knightbridge safe in Blackwater, and with the tiniest steps in my own medical training under my belt, it's time to head to bed.
Tomorrow is a big day! 1st of January 1900..... A new year and a new century!
Tomorrow is a big day! 1st of January 1900..... A new year and a new century!
Happy New Year! New day, year and century! On leaving my room in the saloon, I found Mr MacLeod, Mr Deuce and Mr Aleksei. It seems Mr Deuce is in the swing of the party mood with his attire - there's certainly no missing him in a crowd!
Mr Aleksei was in a horned mask outfit. As nice as he's been to me, I must admit to being a bit intimidated by his mask, but I try to put it out of my head - I know he does a lot of rituals and prayers I'm not familiar with, maybe its part of that?
Mr Aleksei was in a horned mask outfit. As nice as he's been to me, I must admit to being a bit intimidated by his mask, but I try to put it out of my head - I know he does a lot of rituals and prayers I'm not familiar with, maybe its part of that?
There's something strange in there air... A feeling of tension...
Mr Deuce, Mr Aleksei and Mr MacLeod took me south to MacFarlane Ranch, which is owned by Dr Ahlbright. Dr Knightbridge was here, having a meeting with someone that could not be disturbed.
Mr Deuce, Mr Aleksei and Mr MacLeod took me south to MacFarlane Ranch, which is owned by Dr Ahlbright. Dr Knightbridge was here, having a meeting with someone that could not be disturbed.
We waited outside the front of the ranch for hours. Not sure what was going on but everyone was on edge.
Well, everyone except Mr Aleksei. He headed away to do some hunting and came back with some a pelt which he gave me to hang on to.
Well, everyone except Mr Aleksei. He headed away to do some hunting and came back with some a pelt which he gave me to hang on to.
Suddenly, everything changed... A few minutes after Mr Aleksei left to go on a long hunt, four men dressed mostly on black arrived on 3 horses.
They never said anything to us, and one of the men dismounted from the back of a horse and hid in a bush near to where were standing - but I saw him.
He quickly left the bush and walked down past the ranch, standing around for a little bit before mounting the horse and the men left.
Whatever is going on, whoever is looking for Millie, they found her. MacLeod ran into the ranch to tell them and they all fled for Blackwater. They told me to stay behind and hide.
I wish I had stayed.....
They never said anything to us, and one of the men dismounted from the back of a horse and hid in a bush near to where were standing - but I saw him.
He quickly left the bush and walked down past the ranch, standing around for a little bit before mounting the horse and the men left.
Whatever is going on, whoever is looking for Millie, they found her. MacLeod ran into the ranch to tell them and they all fled for Blackwater. They told me to stay behind and hide.
I wish I had stayed.....
What happened next was a bit of a blur.... After hiding in the stables for a few hours, Petey came down to the ranch to check in on me.
I said I was scared of being lone down here with everything happening, and he took me up towards Blackwater. Almost as soon as we arrived, I jumped off his horse and ran to say hello to Mr MacLeod and Mr Deuce, but almost as soon as I did, the shooting started.....
Millie and I ran north, to the Blackwater church. We made the fateful decision that I was going to seek help. We split up and I ran to the telegram office. I was just about to put out a call for help when two men burst in and pointed their guns at me.....
I said I was scared of being lone down here with everything happening, and he took me up towards Blackwater. Almost as soon as we arrived, I jumped off his horse and ran to say hello to Mr MacLeod and Mr Deuce, but almost as soon as I did, the shooting started.....
Millie and I ran north, to the Blackwater church. We made the fateful decision that I was going to seek help. We split up and I ran to the telegram office. I was just about to put out a call for help when two men burst in and pointed their guns at me.....
... and very quickly I was bound in robe and being carried away from the telegram office... They took us into the main street, and it was clear this was big.....
The gang, whoever they may be, numbered at least seven, and the whole of Blackwater was caught up in whatever they were doing!
Wherever Amielia had gone, they'd obviously found her too. They slammed me down right next to her in the street.
The gang, whoever they may be, numbered at least seven, and the whole of Blackwater was caught up in whatever they were doing!
Wherever Amielia had gone, they'd obviously found her too. They slammed me down right next to her in the street.
Eventually, the ringleader took Amielia inside the Saloon, not sure why.
Sensing a break in their concentration, someone broke free of their binds and ran down the street. Wasn't long before the gang caught up with him outside the bank and tied him up again.
Unfortunately now they were pissed off, and one of them kicked me in the side twice! I didn't even say anything!
Sensing a break in their concentration, someone broke free of their binds and ran down the street. Wasn't long before the gang caught up with him outside the bank and tied him up again.
Unfortunately now they were pissed off, and one of them kicked me in the side twice! I didn't even say anything!
This is getting out of hand fast!
The many who broke his binds and the man in the black coat behind me are now mouthing off at the gang and they are getting very angry, very fast!
The many who broke his binds and the man in the black coat behind me are now mouthing off at the gang and they are getting very angry, very fast!
OH MY GOD! THEY JUST SHOT HIM!!!
The man in the black coat... I... I don't know who he was, but he just kept taunting them...
Eventually they had enough... They just walked up to him and... shot him, right in the back of the head...
Now the rain is on, his blood is running down the street, getting closer to my face. Unable to keep my head off the ground the blood soaked rainwater mixes in my hair. Oh god, what are they going to do to the rest of us!!!
The man in the black coat... I... I don't know who he was, but he just kept taunting them...
Eventually they had enough... They just walked up to him and... shot him, right in the back of the head...
Now the rain is on, his blood is running down the street, getting closer to my face. Unable to keep my head off the ground the blood soaked rainwater mixes in my hair. Oh god, what are they going to do to the rest of us!!!
After another period of time (that felt like an eternity), what I think was the ringleader of the group came out of the saloon and walked up to.
He was wearing this horrific pinkish red mask, he looked like the devil...
He picked me up and walked me towards the saloon, asking me if I was a doctor. I said I was, didn't say I was just a shadow.....
He was wearing this horrific pinkish red mask, he looked like the devil...
He picked me up and walked me towards the saloon, asking me if I was a doctor. I said I was, didn't say I was just a shadow.....
Being untied inside, I found Dr Knightbridge working on Mr MacLeod and Mr Deuce, who had both been shot with significant injuries...
Amielia was tending to James, I went over to Mr Deuce to see what I could do for his gunshot wounds...
After a while of treatment, we got Mr Deuce back on his feet and went outside to see if anyone else needed help... There was no sign of anyone: the gangs, the hostages, even the body of the man they executed.....
All that's left is an empty street, and a river of blood down the street...
All that's left is an empty street, and a river of blood down the street...
Heading back into the saloon, Mr Deuce and I found Mr MacLeod recovering and having been joined by Mr McKay. We got to talking about everything that had happened.
The conversation passed right over my head... My heart was still pounding and I couldn't concentrate on a single word they said...
The conversation passed right over my head... My heart was still pounding and I couldn't concentrate on a single word they said...
Sensing my detachment, Mr McKay pulled me aside and tried to calm my nerves. Its going to make more than one conversation to get me over what's happened today. But it was very sweet of him to try...
I need to go lie down...
I need to go lie down...
First thing leaving on leaving my room, I'm pulled aside by Mr Beau Benoit - the chief of Blackwater Police. He made me go through the events of yesterday with him and took notes in his book...
"That's everything I need" he said, shutting over his book. Chief Benoit confirmed my account was the same as everyone else's from yesterday.
He said they would work to try and get the perpetrators, but admitted it would be tough. "The Seven" he called them - A name I had heard before.
I had heard "The Seven" operate North of Valentine, and that I should avoid that town as a result. The gang can be identified by their belt buckle with the number 7 on it.
He said they would work to try and get the perpetrators, but admitted it would be tough. "The Seven" he called them - A name I had heard before.
I had heard "The Seven" operate North of Valentine, and that I should avoid that town as a result. The gang can be identified by their belt buckle with the number 7 on it.
Standing in the sun, chatting..... The day after the gang tied up the town and attacked us... It feels so strange...
Everyone is talking away, but my mind is stuck on the events of yesterday...
Everyone is talking away, but my mind is stuck on the events of yesterday...
An unwelcome distraction took my mind off Yesterday's events. Mr Irving brought Mr Petey in injured and the doctors sprung into action, with Dr Ahlbright tending to his injuries.
Oh no! Dr Knightbridge has been injured! Her injuries aren't bad, by oh my god there is sooo much blood!
The sheer amount of bleeding makes the injuries hard to close. Dr Ahlbright had to cauterize the bleeding just to stem it enough to get her sutures closed!
The sheer amount of bleeding makes the injuries hard to close. Dr Ahlbright had to cauterize the bleeding just to stem it enough to get her sutures closed!
With Dr Knightbridge resting, a strange commotion is going on at the other end of Blackwater.
An odd carriage has arrived in town with a rather loud man shouting about a "miracle tonic". Dr Marty Robbins I believe he called himself.
An odd carriage has arrived in town with a rather loud man shouting about a "miracle tonic". Dr Marty Robbins I believe he called himself.
His hands in the air every few minutes now, this Dr Robbins is coming under fire from Dr Ahlbright.
Abbey had tried this "Miracle Tonic" of his, and found it to be nothing more than lavender-flavoured water...
Abbey had tried this "Miracle Tonic" of his, and found it to be nothing more than lavender-flavoured water...
Mr Deuce, Mr Harrison and I retreated to the docks as things started to heat up, with Dr Robbin's protection detail stepping in and a bit of a mob forming around the group.
They started bartering with Chief Benoit about getting out of Blackwater immediately in exchange for no charges being filed against them.
They started bartering with Chief Benoit about getting out of Blackwater immediately in exchange for no charges being filed against them.
With the group having left town, I caught up with Dr Ahlbright to find out what that was all about. She explained he was just a scam merchant, but as frustrating as it was, there was no system in place to licence products on such.
Only the vigilance of the local population could protect them from falling victim to people like that...
Only the vigilance of the local population could protect them from falling victim to people like that...
Before long another strange cart pulled up to Blackwater. Two in one day? A rather loud, Italian man stepped out offering bread and other cooked goods - Mr Giuseppe he said his name was.
I explained that, because I am still formally unemployed, I had no money to buy his good. "You have some toasted bread, Mama would be so-a sad to see you wasting away" - he actually gave me some warm, toasted bread with a wee dollop of butter!
What a kind man!
I explained that, because I am still formally unemployed, I had no money to buy his good. "You have some toasted bread, Mama would be so-a sad to see you wasting away" - he actually gave me some warm, toasted bread with a wee dollop of butter!
What a kind man!
And just like that, after all the chaos of the carts in Blackwater, suddenly the streets are empty. The peace is most welcome, actually... gives me some time to think.
With the quiet that came over the town, Mr Benjamin took me out of town and showed me the plains outside of Blackwater.
With the quiet in West Elizabeth, I was taken to a small town in Lemoyne called "Rhodes". A strange town with a strange red dust, but we were there to meet Dr Kasady!
I've heard so much about her, one of the Head Doctors of the Five Territories Medical Department. We're here to see if she'll hire me on officially as a shadow doctor!
I've heard so much about her, one of the Head Doctors of the Five Territories Medical Department. We're here to see if she'll hire me on officially as a shadow doctor!
We've travelled across the state to Saint Denis. Dr Kasady has some business to take care of so I'm just waiting for her to finish. I'm going to have an interview, I'm so nervous!
Reading a book outside the doctors office to try and calm my nerves.
Reading a book outside the doctors office to try and calm my nerves.
It's time! Dr. Kasady took me in to the treatment room and asked me some questions about becoming a doctor.
I was so nervous, I hardly remembered what she asked me, but I do remember her being sweet. It went well, and we headed outside and I was officially hired as a Shadow Doctor!
I was so nervous, I hardly remembered what she asked me, but I do remember her being sweet. It went well, and we headed outside and I was officially hired as a Shadow Doctor!
Yesterday was a long day, so I stayed in the night in Saint Denis. After breakfast, I headed down to the doctors office and got some studying done.
Dr Knightbridge had given me a textbook. A few years old now, but plenty of relevant medicine to help me on my way with my medical training!
Dr Knightbridge had given me a textbook. A few years old now, but plenty of relevant medicine to help me on my way with my medical training!
Just before lunch, I got word that Mr MacLeod was coming to Saint Denis to take me back to Blackwater. I headed down to the telegram station to wait for him.
A rather curious gentleman came up to me and asked if he could wait with me. I said he could... He stood there in silence for a few minutes before walking off towards the docks without saying a word... Most strange!
A rather curious gentleman came up to me and asked if he could wait with me. I said he could... He stood there in silence for a few minutes before walking off towards the docks without saying a word... Most strange!
Finally back in Blackwater and good to see the main street so alive! I caught up with Mr MacLeod and Mr McKay, Decue and Mr Aleksei on everything I'd missed during my trip to Saint Denis.
Suddenly the peace of the town was shattered by gunshots. The men ran off, guns in hand to do what they could, while I took shelter in the saloon. I peered through the window and could see figures in the distance running back and forth.
As suddenly as it all began, the gunshots stopped, and the cries of those who were hurt could be heard.
As suddenly as it all began, the gunshots stopped, and the cries of those who were hurt could be heard.
When I was sure it was safe, I left the saloon and headed over to the doctors hut. Four men had been injured, and I was distraught to see my friends Mr Aleksei and Mr Harrison among them.
Dr Ahlbright and another lady tended to the other two, and although I'm just in training, it fell to me too look after Mr Aleksei and Mr Harrison on the floor.
Mr Alexei was hurt worse than Mr Harrison: he was shot through the chest. There wasn't much I could do for either other than to check up on them, keep them comfortable and keep pressure on their wounds...
Dr Ahlbright and another lady tended to the other two, and although I'm just in training, it fell to me too look after Mr Aleksei and Mr Harrison on the floor.
Mr Alexei was hurt worse than Mr Harrison: he was shot through the chest. There wasn't much I could do for either other than to check up on them, keep them comfortable and keep pressure on their wounds...
With Mr Aleksei being taken in for surgery, I next headed over to Mr Harrison to do what I could for him. He only had a gunshot to the shoulder, not much in the way of bleeding.
"Only"... I use that word only in comparison to Mr Aleksei and the others - I can't imagine how horrible the pain must be of getting shot at all is!
"Only"... I use that word only in comparison to Mr Aleksei and the others - I can't imagine how horrible the pain must be of getting shot at all is!
Mr Aleksei is out of surgery now. As I helped Dr Ahlbright take Mr Harrison in to the office for his surgery, I noticed Mr Aleksei slump against the wall and collapse to a sitting position.
With Mr Harrison's procedure now underway, I headed out to see how Mr Aleksei was. He was incredibly thirsty!
I took out a glass bottle of water from my satchel and gave it to him.
I took out a glass bottle of water from my satchel and gave it to him.
With all the procedures and surgeries now complete, and the respective patients now recovering, things settled down.
I took out my notebook and made pretend like I was writing up notes, like a good doctor. The truth is, I was just trying to give myself an anchor with which to hold myself together...
I took out my notebook and made pretend like I was writing up notes, like a good doctor. The truth is, I was just trying to give myself an anchor with which to hold myself together...
The shootings must have been the talk of the town, as everyone from West Elizabeth, and many from beyond, suddenly descended on the town to check in with those that were recovering.
As more and more people surrounded me, I stood there pretending I was writing. That's twice now in just three days I've had to watch and indeed tend to my friends after they've been badly hurt. Is this all this country has to offer? Pain and sadness?
As more and more people surrounded me, I stood there pretending I was writing. That's twice now in just three days I've had to watch and indeed tend to my friends after they've been badly hurt. Is this all this country has to offer? Pain and sadness?
I can't take it anymore, being around all these people... Some hunters have just come in to town with a wolf! I'd never seen a wolf before, so I followed them to take a look at it - it was massive!
Before long, I was asked back to the doctors office to assist with another patient. With now more experience under my belt from earlier, I assisted Dr Ahlbright in looking after the man.
With such a horrible day under my belt, I clocked off from shadowing Dr Ahlbright and one of the men gave me a bottle of whiskey. I chatted with Mr Deuce and Mr MacLeod outside the gunsmiths.
As I continued to drink the night away, Reverend Bell came over to chat with MacLeod. I don't remember speaking to him...
This whiskey stuff is strong... I'm more drunk than I've ever been in my life... I feel like I needed this release though... Seeing 4 of my new friends horribly hurt in just 3 days has been... hard...
This whiskey stuff is strong... I'm more drunk than I've ever been in my life... I feel like I needed this release though... Seeing 4 of my new friends horribly hurt in just 3 days has been... hard...
Ha ha! I seem to have stolen a hat!
I wonder who's it could be.....
I wonder who's it could be.....
Oh god! More gunshots rung out across the night. I ran inside and the gunsmith, a Mr Alasdair MacLeod, led me into cover and sheltered me, his gun trained on the doors, until it was safe to leave.
Once it was safe, Mr MacLeod came and collected me from the gunsmith. We headed on back to the main street to hopefully unwind.
Back at the main street, it was great to see Mr Rivers: leaning up against his trusty boxes, watching over the town as normal...
After a few hours, Mr Giuseppe arrived with his usual assortment of cooked goods! I bought an orange pie. Expensive, but something special and tasty to help steady my nerves after today...
A very friendly cat appeared on the main street in Blackwater. I'm not the biggest fan of cats, but this was a cute fellow! It seems a few people perked up at the sight of the wee cat!
Mr MacLeod brought Dr Knightbridge over. She had heard about what had happened today, and wanted to check in with me. Was sweet of her! Her reassurance certainly helps me stay focused.
Just as things brightened up, Dr Knightbridge pulled me away to a call on the Upper Montana River, just North of Blackwater.
We arrived to a man that missed the pathway down to the river and fell off a cliff, breaking is arm. I helped Dr Knightbridge tend to the man's injuries.
We arrived to a man that missed the pathway down to the river and fell off a cliff, breaking is arm. I helped Dr Knightbridge tend to the man's injuries.
After a long and hard day, Dr Knightbridge and Mr MacLeod gave me a few minutes alone by the river to collect my thoughts.
There's not enough doctors in this part of the country... Maybe... Maybe instead of following my mother's footsteps into nursing, maybe I do the full training and become a doctor?
A scary thought... But the feeling of standing there while my friends are hurt was worse... I'll ponder this more over the coming days.
There's not enough doctors in this part of the country... Maybe... Maybe instead of following my mother's footsteps into nursing, maybe I do the full training and become a doctor?
A scary thought... But the feeling of standing there while my friends are hurt was worse... I'll ponder this more over the coming days.
"With the completion of your studies and under the recommendations of your colleagues, I'm promoting you to full medical doctor.
"Frank, I'd like you to make out the qualification to Astrið Aleksdóttir as doctor of medicine.
"Astrið, this does come with the provision you can practice clinically, but still to seek assistance for surgeries as you work towards your surgical qualification."
"Frank, I'd like you to make out the qualification to Astrið Aleksdóttir as doctor of medicine.
"Astrið, this does come with the provision you can practice clinically, but still to seek assistance for surgeries as you work towards your surgical qualification."
