giggles and gumdrops

There is much to tell.
We left the Medicine Bow, after having to do defend our supplies, and followed the Platte River north. A couple of days hard ride, we came across what had once been a big resevoir. the dam had been destroyed in some manner, and the rushing water had found a new path, making a  lake in a flat area to the west. Although it was no good for drinking, still being too muddy and full of debris, we were able to wash a few clothes, and have a good place to camp.
later: a days ride to the north, we found the reason for the first destroyed dam. a dam upriver had been blown up. It was obvious. It explains alot. Why the river downstream had been muddy, and so full of debris. The water was running faster here so we were able to gather badly needed drinking water, and having all clean clothes, and watered horses rested, and fed, we turned northwest.
Three days brought us to the west of what I think is the city of Riverton. There seemed to be some trade there, but upon closer examination, we saw several travelers attacked, and robbed after leaving the town proper, and their goods promptly returned to the market along with the survivors of the attack, in chains. Slavers. So it has started. The scum of humankind making their play. We quietly left the area, and headed to the west and one of the most beautiful places on the planet. The Wind River Canyon. We did not enter the canyon itself, appearing to me to be a good place for a trap, but followed a little way off. Earlier today,  myself, Scott, and John, went to the river for water. John decided to try a little fishing while Scott and I filled containers. A short time had passed when we saw John smiling, and pulling in another fish. In only two hours, John had caught enough fish for the entire party to have all we wanted. I never asked what he used, or how, being much too grateful that he had. Tonight around the fire, with the Wind River Range above us, the smell of frying fish made us all hungry beyond reason, and we ate with all the gusto of barbarian kings. The water from the river was cold and clean. There is a chill in the air, and above us all the stars in the sky twinkle and shine.  It seems to me the death, and destruction in the world has not touched this place. There is no sadness here, just a wild and desolate land that seems to have changed little in hundreds of years. I will never forget the look of satisfaction on John's face as each member thanked him while we gorged ourselves on River Trout. He just nodded, and took another bite of fish. He is happier than I have seen him in many years. Abby is quite obviously very proud of him, and tonight everyone is at peace.