Shootout around the pianist

 Police Gazette – Southern District, June 18th 1863

From the Office of  District Commissioner – Southern District

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Wanted / Dangerous Persons

• “The Butler Gang,” reported active beyond Gorge Creek. Sightings confirm they now travel with 6–10 armed men. Reward increased to £40.
• “Red Mary,” believed to be coordinating movements between mining camps. Said to carry a revolver and act as lookout. Reward £5.

New Notice:

• Unknown Māori male, described as young, armed with double-barrel gun, seen observing patrol movements near the Koawa Track. Intent unknown.

• Eugene (surname unknown), itinerant pianist
  Recently arrived at Te Awa Koawa. Of limited musical ability but attracting gatherings in camp.
  Intelligence suggests his presence may be used as cover for criminal movement or meetings.
  Keep under observation.

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Major Incidents & Property Reports

• Supply Pack Missing – Three Government-issued revolvers ammunition and rations lost by a Probationary Constable between Upper Gorge and Te Awa Koawa. 
• Claim #12 Abandoned – Signs of struggle. No bodies recovered. Equipment left scattered.
• Horse Theft – Two mounts taken from camp outskirts during night hours. Pickets report no alarm raised.

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Criminal Intelligence / Notices

• Reports suggest the Butler Gang are no longer acting as simple raiders, but are establishing semi-permanent positions in the Gorge bush.
• Several miners claim protection has been offered in exchange for gold shares.
• Tensions rising between:
  • Lawful claim holders
  • Those suspected of cooperating with outlaws

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Native Affairs / Local Intelligence

• reports signs of multiple trail systems in use beyond known tracks.
• Some local parties appear to be avoiding contact entirely, while others have been seen moving at night.
• It is unclear whether these movements are:
  • Independent
  • In cooperation with outlaw elements

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Orders to the Armed Police Detachment

1. Locate and recover missing government supplies
2. Investigate abandoned claim and determine fate of occupants
3. Disrupt any organised outlaw presence
4. Maintain order within Te Awa Koawa camp

Discretion authorised in the field. 

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The Detachment
Senior Constable Thomas R. Calder — The Veteran
Constable Edwin Pike — The Recruit
Constable Samuel “Sly” Mercer — The Thief
Constable William Hargreaves — The Soldier
Constable Joseph “Joe” Rangi — The Tracker
Kuri. Constable Rangi’s Dog

The Butler gang reappear in the Gorge.  Up to their old claim jumping tricks.

But the Police Detachment turn out.

And a shootout proceeds as Eugene accompanys the event with an unclear rendition of something that just could be Chopin.  Just.

The detachment close in. 

And the Police dog is released.

Turns out the Butlers couldn't get the job done.  Three down, two fled.

The Police dog subdued it's Maori.

But the Butlers are good runners!

They will be back!

And Eugene is warned for being a public nuisance.

🧭 Campaign Tracks After Game 2

Track three pressures:

• Outlaw Strength (Weak / Growing / Entrenched)
• Camp Order (Stable / Uneasy / Lawless)
• Local Relations (Neutral / Wary / Hostile)

These will shape Game 3 Gazette and scenario pool.

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