t was the beginning of 1891. The New Year had arrived, but for Alexander and Logan, life remained a precarious balance of survival and strategy. Over the past months, the bond between the two had grown stronger—they moved, fought, and laughed together like brothers, a bond forged through danger and shared cunning.
The Black Vultures were still searching for them, but despite their relentless efforts, the duo managed to remain elusive. Yet Alexander's personal troubles loomed larger: his debt had now climbed to six thousand dollars.
The Debt Collectors
One chilly night, as Alexander and Logan slept in the cart, Alexander was roused by a faint voice outside. He slipped quietly from the covers, peering into the darkness. Four figures stood nearby. Calmly, he observed them: these were familiar faces—some of the very people from whom he had borrowed money.
The men spoke formally, their voices cold and measured.
"This is your last formal warning, Alexander," one of them said. "If you fail to repay, it will not be you who suffers—but the boy. Logan will be forced to pay for your mistakes."
They left as silently as they had arrived, giving Alexander a full month to settle the debt.
A Night at the Bar
The next day, Alexander's mind was consumed with worry. By evening, he sent Logan back to their cart hideout to cook some fish for dinner. He himself wandered into a nearby bar, choosing the cheapest drink he could find, nursing it quietly at the counter.
Suddenly, a shadow fell beside him. Alexander looked up to see a tall man in a worn coat. The man ordered the most expensive drink on the menu. Something about him seemed familiar.
"You've been here before," Alexander said cautiously. Recognition sparked—this was Marcus, the man who had saved his life back in 1890.
Marcus offered him a sip of his drink. They sat together in silence at first, then conversation began. Alexander, emboldened by the alcohol, spoke freely—about his struggles, his constant danger, and the growing debt that haunted him.
Marcus listened carefully. He was sober enough to understand Alexander's plight.
An Offer
After ensuring Alexander didn't stumble home alone, Marcus guided him back to the cart. Logan greeted them, curious but cautious.
The next morning, Marcus returned. This time, he wasn't just offering company or advice—he offered Alexander a chance for something more: a job. A chance to earn, survive, and perhaps pay off the ever-mounting debt that shadowed his every move.
For Alexander, this was more than an opportunity—it was the first step toward a future that didn't feel like constant running, a step toward building something stronger than fear: a brotherhood forged in danger, trust, and shared purpose.