Untitled story (The Hades Saloon and gambling hall, Buffalotown, . . .)

Introduction

UNTITLED STORY (The Hades Saloon and gambling hall, Buffalotown, . . .). 350 words, incomplete. 

The story sets a dramatic scene in a classic Western setting, depicting the confrontation between famous outlaws and a local gunman. The introduction of Helen Channon suggests a potential shift in the narrative, possibly exploring her perspective and experiences in the West. However, being unfinished, the story leaves these developments unexplored.

See also “The Hades Saloon“.

The story

In this untitled and unfinished story set in Buffalotown, Arizona, the narrative unfolds in the Hades Saloon and gambling hall, a notorious gathering place for outlaws and ruffians.

The story begins with two sun-bronzed and dust-covered riders, the Sonora Kid and Drag Buckner, arriving at the saloon. Their entrance quickly attracts attention, and it’s clear that they are well-known and possibly notorious figures in the area.

Red McGaren, a gunman of note, approaches the two with a sinister demeanor. He insinuates that the local sheriff might be interested in them, hinting at their wanted status. McGaren, with a sneering voice and a menacing posture, confronts them, positioning himself for a potential gunfight.

The atmosphere in the saloon becomes tense. Gamblers pause, bartenders prepare to take cover, dancing girls and cowboys move back, and a few tough individuals edge closer to the action. McGaren then accuses the Sonora Kid and Drag Buckner of being wanted men with a significant bounty on their heads.

In a swift and deadly exchange of gunfire, McGaren is killed by the Sonora Kid. The saloon erupts into chaos as the Kid and Buckner shoot up the place, demonstrating their nerve and skill. They manage to escape amidst the confusion, leaving a furious mob behind.

The story then shifts to introduce Helen Channon, a woman who travels to the West at the invitation of a ranch-girl friend. Helen arrives with little knowledge of the West and a skeptical view of the stories she has heard about it.

Characters

  • The Sonora Kid: A notorious outlaw and one of the two main riders who enter the saloon.
  • Drag Buckner: The other main rider, accompanying the Sonora Kid.
  • Red McGaren: A well-known gunman who confronts the Sonora Kid and Drag Buckner.
  • Helen Channon: A woman who travels to the West, skeptical of its reputation.

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