Smoke rising from the horizon nearly dead ahead kindled their failing hope into flames. Neither of them pointed out the obvious, each too afraid that it was just a mirage. Yet their horse's canters was a little faster as they urged them on. The sight of a farm was a blessing. Mary grabbed a hold of her necklace and started a prayer to her God. Kung-wang itched to reach out and hug her. But it was now even more dangerous for the two of them. So he slowed his horse and let his fiance get further ahead of him. His beautiful, brave woman rode with a straight back and a confident assurance. 

The two followed the road, because it was now one instead of a beaten fading dirt track, into the humble town. Mary lead them to a saloon. The two tied their horses off out front and brushed them down. The thirsty horses drank happily from the water trough. Kung-Wang lingered by the horses to make sure they didn't drink too much. Once their horses were taken care of the two entered the saloon and stopped just inside the swinging doors. 

Without hesitation at the sight of the brawl, Kung-Wang grabbed Mary's arm and hauled her back outside. Mary glared at him a little but he didn't let go until they were far enough away that the Chinese man felt it was safe. 

"Really?" Mary hissed, more pleased with his actions than annoyed.

"Go back in when settled. Stupid to go now." Kung-Wang replied with a shrug. Mary just rolled her eyes and muttered something that sounded an awfully like a Chinese curse or the word [i]men[/i] in English. Either would be fitting.