Let me introduce myself to you. I’m Sergeant McClain of the United States Army. You’ll find me stationed here at the fort, making sure every man knows his duty and the walls stand ready. Life in the Dakota Territory is no easy posting. Weather, supplies, and uneasy relations with those who walked this land long before us—every day brings its test.

My work is to keep order, train the recruits, and make sure we can hold this post if trouble comes. The bugle calls us to drill at dawn, the guard watches through the night, and the forge rings with the sound of the blacksmith keeping our gear in fighting shape. It’s not glory most days, but steady work, and steady work keeps men alive out here.

I’ve seen prospectors like Samuel pass through, pockets full of dreams. Farmers like Harry looking to turn sod into bread. Freight wagons like Martin’s rolling in heavy with supplies. Even Tink’s riverboat ties this lonely post to the wide world beyond. My job is to keep watch so that all these folk can carry on their work under some measure of safety.